Feb issue

The courage issue Vol. 16, No. 4 www.cbhscircuit.com

18600 Vista Park Blvd., Weston, Fla. 33332 Cypress Bay High

February 2017 (754) 323-0350

COFFEE BREAK

Literary Club hosted its annual Coffee House to raise funds for its magazine, Electric Ink.

BY OLIVIA OHAYON EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

the event was rather satisfying. I felt like I was able to deliver my emotions in a way

When senior Wael Hassan read a news story regarding a fatal incident between Literary Club hosted its annual Coffee an innocent black man and a police House in the cafeteria on Jan. 20. At into a poem and share it with his fellow students at Coffee House. and other literary pieces.

“Coffee House provided me an environment to share my feelings and

NEWS

Curriculum Fair

features

Women’s March

sponsor Joyce Seigel said.

worthwhile and would allow the club $6 when purchased in advance and $10 at the door.

Literary Club started preparing for Coffee “I was not happy about this process House immediately after the school year because it took too long to get people started.

Continues on page 8

Sports

Signing Day

ARTS & eNt.

Oscar Predictions

Students provided information on all elective courses.

National protests for human rights resonates with students.

Twenty- two athletes commit to collegiate careers.

Anticipated award show winners decided.

Story on Page 9

Story on Page 12

Story on Page 33

Story on Page 38

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FEBRUARY 2017

Students prepare for upcoming year

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“Course selection is very stressful, and it’s been constantly on my mind,” Thiyagarajan said. “It’s hard to decide which classes to take because there are a lot of factors to consider like the teachers and the passing rate.”

English teachers keep the course cards in their rooms until students meet with their guidance counselors. Students will

GRAPHIC BY JESSIE CHAIET

to have all of the information prepared for the budget for the school for next year,” she said. “It’s really important that students know what’s going on because then what happens is kids come to school and they want to change their classes. It’s really impossible to do this because we hired teachers to meet the needs of the guidance counselors will enter the course children.” selections into the computers.

Next year, several new Advanced “We talk about where they see themselves moving, kinds of colleges, the (AICE) courses will be introduced, rigor of the classes and also ensuring that such as AICE European History, AICE they balance their schedules so they don’t Environmental Management, AICE get themselves overwhelmed,” guidance Psychology A level and AICE Biology A counselor Dianne Thorpe said. “We are level.

PHOTO BY JESSIE CHAIET

CARDED: Guidance counselor Dianne Thorpe assists junior Barbara Aldana with her course selection card for her senior year. All students will have the opportunity to meet with their guidance counselors in their English classes to

“Every year that we have opened up new Cambridge courses has been a huge success,” Mrs. Estripeaut said. “[The] Bay prides itself on choices; here, students can explore anything because there are so many different choices.”

AP Environmental Science teacher Laura Ashley will be teaching the new AICE Environmental Management course next year. She said this course is concerned with both local and global issues and the various ways in which societies and governments manage the environment.

“I believe that students should take this class because it will give them a better understanding of what is going on in the environment and different ways to protect it for future generations as well as the different agencies that are out there trying to improve our environment,” Mrs. Ashley said.

Mrs. Ashley said this class is very different from AP Environmental Science. She said the AP class deals with more of the analytical part of why certain things are happening in the environment, while the AICE class deals with the different agencies that work and manage the environment.

“Since I enjoy teaching AP Environmental Science, I think I will also enjoy teach this new class, since it is dealing with environmental issues,” Mrs. Ashley said. “It is a new class, so I am excited to learn the material and excited to come up with new labs and activities for the class.”

Sophomore Drue Shapiro said she thinks course selection is especially important going into her junior year.

She said she wants to make sure she signs up for appropriate classes so

News Calendar General

Clubs

Events

she can balance them alongside her extracurricular activities and preparations “I know that junior year is a really took that into consideration during course selection,” Shapiro said. “However, I do I think my current teachers are preparing me really well for next year.”

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As blue course cards were distributed to students on Jan. 20, the course selection process began for the upcoming school year. Students had a week to pick their classes before turning in their course cards on Jan. 30 and 31 to their English teachers.

“Course selection drives everything because it is what gives the students all of the options and what they need in order to meet their graduation requirements,” Assistant Principal Marianela Estripeaut said. “Course selection then allows [students] to explore and grow academically in their areas of interest. It is really a very vital part of the way that [the Bay] operates.”

Students had to think about what classes they wanted to take and get signatures from their teachers to approve their decisions. Sophomore Iniya Thiyagarajan said course selection has

advice, especially in terms of balancing the classes.”

Assistant Principal Debra SantoroHubert said the course selection process is important in determining the budget and teachers needed for the next year.

She said it is also important to make sure that students are correctly placed.

Mrs. Thorpe said she thinks the Bay is very successful in the course selection process. She said it has been running smoothly and students seem ready for the next school year.

“Because we have so many selections, students tend to feel overwhelmed with the volume of classes and choices that they have,” Mrs. Thorpe said. “However, students end up choosing a lot of classes that they may have interest in or areas of their strengths and likes. The students seem very excited and ready to get on board with choosing their new classes for the new year.”

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BRACE adviser Michelle Lutin and Mrs. Bush coordinated the event for the Bay. However, College Fair is More than 50 booths with different a county-wide project that allows each colleges, military academies and art representative to inform every school in Broward County. the cafeteria on Feb. 6 at the annual “[The process] is very simple for me,” College Fair. Students and parents were Mrs. Bush said. “The county tells me exposed to potential colleges and had the who is coming and I do the logistics like opportunity to meet with representatives the tables, the food and the welcome.” from each college in attendance.

Members of the National Honor Society (NHS) volunteered at the event to welcome everyone, give advice and where needed. Junior and senator It is good to know about assist of NHS Melanie Alfonzo said she had a all of the colleges so great time helping the representatives set up and also provide aid to students.

PHOTO BY JESSIE CHAIET you don’t just apply to “It is nice to know that we can help GETTING AHEAD: Sophomore Daniella Maldonado (right), speaks with a random schools and kids who need guidance about college college representative from Barry University and learns more about the school. waste money. You also and just help them out,” Alfonzo said. The annual College Fair took place on Feb. 6, with more 50 booths with different “We are helping them plan the next four of their life.” campus, curriculum and years Junior Julia Levy attended the event the people. to learn more about different colleges and difference is,” Levy said. “Also, I learned for her to get a feel of what universities “It is actually kind of intimidating that if you’re in the honors program, it is appeal to her,” Mr. Carbonell said.

Mr. Carbonell said this night -junior Julia Levy being here because, as a junior, the clock not all of your classes that are honors, it is allowed him to become more relaxed is ticking and college is coming right just the classes you want to be in.”

“It is critical for parents and students around the corner,” Levy said. “It is good Throughout the night, parents also about colleges and allow his daughter to both come, because the more they to know about all of the colleges so you had the chance to gather additional to receive the help she needed. educate themselves about colleges, the don’t just apply to random schools and information to help their child decide “I feel very comfortable being here easier this process is,” Broward Advisors on the perfect college for them. Simon tonight,” he said. “We attended College for Continuing Education (BRACE) the campus, curriculum and the people.” Carbonell, father of junior Veronica Fair two years ago with our son, but I adviser Shari Bush said. “It is important Levy said she learned useful Carbonell, attended the event to help feel it is very important for my daughter for students to talk to the representatives information about potential schools. his daughter pick her top four schools to to go through the same process because it provided us with new, helpful “I learned about the honors program apply to next year. looking for so the information is not just at the University of Florida because I information with our son.” from me or what students are reading.” was very interested in learning what the is actually doing this, and it is important

BY STEPHANIE STONE NEWS EDITOR

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Advanced Academic Night informs families well as a section where parents and students could talk to guidance counselors

BY JESSIE CHAIET NEWS PHOTO EDITOR

“[The Advanced Academic Night] In order to aid the process of course selection, the Advanced Academic Night puts a face to a class; sometimes parents informed parents and students about Advanced Placement (AP) and Advanced attended the event, which took place on be taking care of their [kids] throughout vanced Academic Night as a volunteer Night to help students and parents understand the course offerings and re- informed parents and students about the course and helped them decide if they courses that we offer,” guidance director get more information and help with the help people make the right decision regarding whether they should take the A-PUSH TOWARD ACADEMICS: Sophomores Jordan Moskowitz and Cori - Friedman speak with Advanced Placement (AP) United States History teacher ing and helping students decide which Jeffrey Buttell about the class. Students and parents had the opportunity to talk Course selection cards came out on to discuss advanced courses and help them make decisions about course selection.

This event was held during the week of “The opening presentation was re- course selection to make sure that stu- know about the [course selection] proally helpful, because it provided a lot of - is always a stressful time, but this did help dents to pick a balanced schedule and to clarify anything I was unsure about and learned really important information, es- know what requirements that the course just anything I wanted to know about any pecially that I should take AP classes, because I probably want to go out of state Jack Fintz, father of sophomore Robin Fintz, said he and his daughter learned After the opening presentation, stu- to Advanced Academic Night to join his about many classes including AP Physics, dents and parents were invited to the cafsaid it was important to learn about class- up using the event as an opportunity to es because course selection will affect his eteria contained classes in the areas of talk to his future teachers and learn more art, career education, computer science, “This event was very informative and “I think [the event] was very help- provided direct access to the same teachful, especially for students who are on of social studies and world languages as

and some personal touch as far as what we are about to get into and what she is Cohen said she thought this event was a great opportunity for parents and stuyear and make smart choices about their school with a plethora of high level coursgreat, the choices are often overwhelmportunity for parents and students to get

EHS story contest fosters creativity

BY HANNAH ZIFRONY

discussing creative prompts for the short -

a short story contest for all students In order to choose a winner for the the contest was to promote literacy and school spirit, while also incentivizing stu-

ing a check plus, check, or check minus to narrow the amount of stories down to

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to choose the top three stories, in respec-

“This contest allows students to have a chance to be recognized for their creative writing and the monetary reward is just a gift for their creative thoughts and -

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Cash prizes will be presented to the

This contest allows students to have a chance to be recognized for their creative writing and the monetary reward is just a gift for their creative thoughts and writing talent.

Flyers were placed around the school in order to inform students of this contion this year was not as big as she would HEADS OR TAILS: President Cheyenne Desrosiers, Treasurer Franki Rosenthal, Vice President

entries were submitted for the contest and cash prizes were awarded to the top three short stories.

would be some ways to improve promo-

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year to allow students to share their cre“I remember hearing about the contest last year, but I never really knew what theme or phrase for students to include “I think the contest was a success,” goal of spreading literacy and spirit, and The contest has been taking place ever since the second year the club was created

-EHS adviser Cecilia Fonseca

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P.R.I.D.E. advises multicultural families familiarized with the new curriculum offered at the Bay. “I came from Brazil and I was in my 11th year in school over there. Now that I am here, I am trying to understand the schedule and the classes,” Bertellotti said. “I understand more about AP and AICE classes now and I know how I will proceed to graduating next year because of this information night.”

BY VICTORIA RAIMONDI

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PHOTO BY VICTORIA RAIMONDI

SHOWING THEIR PRIDE: (From left to right) President Michelle Nyguyen, Vice President of Education Mason Eiss and Secretary Anabel Lin welcome students and parents to the annual P.R.I.D.E. Information Night on Jan. 31.

responsible for the organization of the helped on the day of the event and made the occasion possible. ago I was completely lost. Informative Night was held shortly afterward and it helped me not only to understand how the classes work, but it also gave me the tools to succeed as a student,” Campos said. “I think that every student should have the same opportunity at succeeding in school regardless of the country they come from.”

At the event, P.R.I.D.E. was able to advise the incoming students and parents on what classes to take and clubs to join.

“It is always very gratifying to do something for the community, especially when you are empathetic to the people you are helping,” Campos said. “I’m very happy and proud to be one of the people who helped to make this night a success.”

Parents like Taciana Nogueira, mother of junior Julia Nogueira, attended the event. Ms. Nogueira was there to learn more about Broward County’s educational system as well as standardized testing.

“We just came from another country and I was completely lost,” Ms. Nogueira said. “I learned a lot about the exams and how things work here at the school.”

At the event, junior Leticia Bertellotti had the opportunity to become

The night is a success as we help parents that are new to our school to educate them about our school system. It is very rewarding every time we are able to help new parents at our school and welcome them to the best school.

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Promoting Relationships In Diversity Through Education (P.R.I.D.E.) hosted its annual Information Night on Jan.31 located in the auditorium and the Wave.

The purpose of the Information Night was to educate multicultural students and parents of updated graduation requirements, college applications, scholarships and free tutoring opportunities.

Reading coach Adrienne Maisel and behavior specialist Nori Suarez assisted parents and students in any questions they might have about the upcoming school year and important exams were discussed.

“This is what we call an informative event,” Ms. Suarez said. “It’s to help parents understand the academic procedures at the Bay so they could be more informed about what we do at school as well as the programs that are available for students.”

The event was assembled by P.R.I.D.E., and with the help of administration, the club was able to put its vision to reality. “[P.R.I.D.E.] hosts this event; we promote it, we put it together and we asked administration to help us speak about different educational curriculums,” P.R.I.D.E. president Michelle Nguyen said. “[We contributed] by organizing the event, getting food and getting sponsors.”

The Director of Education of P.R.I.D.E. sophomore, Sabrina Veit, and P.R.I.D.E.’s sponsor Claudina Fernandez and education assistant of P.R.I.D.E., sophomore Fernanda Campos were

-reading coach Adrienne Maisel Mrs. Maisel said she was proud to have done her part in assisting parents and students in their academic journey.

“The night is a success as we help parents that are new to our school to educate them about our school system,” Mrs. Maisel said. “It is very rewarding every time we are able to help new parents at our school and welcome them to the best school.”

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AND THE OSCAR GOES TO...

BY CARLI UDINE ONLINE NEWS EDITOR

The red carpet was rolled out as students attended the annual Lightning Oscars held by the Student Government Association (SGA) on Jan. 27. With awards ranging from categories like “Showstopper” to “Relationship Goals,” SGA sold out the show with 650 people SGA was able to raise money for its organization by selling presale tickets: $5 for a regular admission ticket and $10 for VIP seating.

Senior Alexa Young, president of SGA, chaired the celebratory event this year and said a huge amount of hard work, including long meetings and

practices, went into making the night happen. Assisting Young with the show, junior Cali Kaufman and sophomore Lexi Gladstone co-chaired the event.

“We started prepping for the show in October and it required us to pay immense attention to detail from everything ranging from selecting hosts and presenters, organizing the voting and nomination processes and gathering of all the necessary supplies and decor,” Young said.

Young said the outcome of the show was everything she and the club as a whole wished for.

“We sold out right after school the day of the show so I can’t complain at all. I think our hosts, performers and presenters did a really great job and I honestly couldn’t be more proud of the is one of the Bay’s most beloved traditions and I’m so happy that my co-chairs and I were able to keep it alive for yet another year.”

Without the performance of the hosts, presenters and performers, Young said the show would have not been possible.

“I really think the hosts did an amazing job capturing the attention of the audience and getting everyone involved,” Young said.

Senior Alex DeLuca, host of the Lightning Oscars, said she was thrilled to have been able to participate in the show.

“I was a little nervous to host the show, but as it went on, I became more and more comfortable and had an amazing time,” DeLuca said. “I would not have changed one thing about the show. I think [Young] and the rest of SGA ran an awesome event.”

The show was meant to mimic reality and be as similar to the real Oscars as possible.

“Although every single thing went as planned and it turned out great, my favorite have to be the live interviews from the red carpet,” DeLuca said. “It added a ‘real’ award show feel to the show.”

Kaufman said making the show happen would not have been possible without the help of everyone in SGA. “It was really amazing to see how the

school can come together to celebrate its students and I think everyone in the audience really enjoyed that,” Kaufman said.

Kaufman said she felt every aspect of the show was a huge success and very enjoyable for the audience.

“I think that everyone involved did an amazing job with entertaining the audience and giving the show some unique characteristics,” Kaufman said.

“The amazing thing about our school is that there are so many different personalities that come together for a common purpose.”

Throughout the show, Kaufman was in charge of making sure everyone was in the right place at the right time.

“I was a little nervous that something would go wrong with the show, especially the music, but I knew that all the hours of practice and preparation would pay off,” she said.

Another aspect of the Lightning Oscars was the promotion of the event on social media.

“In order to get the word across about the show, it was so important for all members in SGA and students in the school to use social media mediums like Instagram and Twitter to ensure that everyone was aware of the event happening and all of the details,” Kaufman said. “I truly think that the social media awareness allowed everyone at the school to be involved.”

Nominee for the award “SNL Superstar” sophomore Russell Vaz did not win the award for the category but said he was so happy to be a part of such an amazing show.

“Although I didn’t win, which was upsetting, it was so great to be involved in something that the school takes such great pride in,” Vaz said. “I was happy to be able to have fun for a night with my friends while enjoying the show.”

SGA has already started brainstorming ideas for the next annual Lightning Oscars.

“After the show, it was important to sit down and discuss every aspect of the night and try to improve for the following year,” Kaufman said. “I think that every year Lightning Oscars continues to get better and better.”

THANK THE ACADEMY: (from left to right) Host Maurice Stewart, presenter Brian Manno, chair of Lightning Oscars Alexa Young, co-chairs Cali Kaufman and Lexi Gladstone, winner of “Future Leader of the World” Max Morales and host Alex DeLuca.

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Town hall meeting addresses anxiety to contribute to the discussion.

The panel consisted of NEWS COPY EDITOR Clinical Director of the Neural To discuss and combat- Behavioral Health Institute Dr. stress levels among high school Jonathan Hoffman, Broward students, the Parent Student Teacher Association (PTSA) Tianga, parents Debi and Dwight partnered with the Weston Al- Melgaard, guidance counselor liance for Youth (WAY) to or- Rosa Mazzocca and founder of ganize a Town Hall Meeting in the Helping Overcome Problems (HOPE) club which panelists addressed the Effectively topic of student stress. A panel sophomore Derek Sheinberg. of experts, students and commu- The moderator of the meeting nity members presented at the was News and Sports Anchor of meeting held in the Wave on Jan. NBC 6 Adam Kuperstein.

18, and any parents, teachers or students were welcome to attend. Mrs. Mazzocca because of PTSA President Mindy Siegel her expertise in mental health said that because student stress and Dr. Hoffman because of doesn’t seem to be going away, his expertise in Anxiety and the topic needed to be discussed Obsessive Compulsive Disorder; for the purpose of not only we also requested to put a HOPE allowing people to understand student on the panel,” Mrs. that they are not alone, but also Siegel said. to provide them with experts to reach out to if they are to need discussing stress and substance abuse is not only his job as a assistance.

“I hope the [attendants] Synthetic Drug Expert, but also gained an understanding that his passion; he recognizes the we are all in this together and that we can help each other by like the Town Hall Meeting.

“It’s as important to go to sharing our own experiences and expertise,” she said. “I also meetings like this as it is to wanted parents and students to go to school,” he said. “It’s leave with a list of resources they education— it’s about learning, understanding what exactly can contact if they need help.”

PTSA and the WAY began addiction is, what exactly mental coordinating the meeting in illness is and what exactly the September; throughout the drugs are. This was a short four months of planning, both meeting, but every little bit organizations selected panelists counts.”

BY RACHEL FRIEDMAN

PHOTO BY JESSIE CHAIET

STRESSED OUT: (From left to right) Guidance Counselor Rosa Mazzocca, sophomore Derek Sheinberg, Lieutenant Ozzy Tianga, Dr. Jonathan Hoffman and Debi and Dwight Melgaard make up a panel of experts and community members. They came together in the Wave on Jan. 18 to discuss the topic of student stress.

Senior Director of the WAY Gonzalo Cadima said the meeting was organized to improve the Weston community and bring about a positive change. “[The WAY] helps to provide the community with information and organize meetings like these to work with youth,” he said. “We support anything that will better the community, and this meeting was a combination of people sharing a positive message and explaining how there are always

solutions.”

After dealing with a friend’s suicide last year, Sheinberg founded the HOPE Club to act as an outlet for stressed-out students. Through the meeting, Sheinberg was able to contribute his feelings on stress and his knowledge on coping methods from a student perspective.

“This meeting was a great opportunity to share the HOPE members’ thoughts and opinions Sheinberg said. “Many adults

don’t realize how common student stress is, so we hoped to really open up their eyes on the subject and encourage them to take action on it.” the meeting was a success and that the content of it was “I was so impressed by the panel; I can’t speak enough for whoever put this together,” he said. “Kudos to that person because this [meeting] was phenomenal.”

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BY OLIVIA LANDSMAN

The Distributive Education Clubs of America (DECA) district award ceremony took place on Jan. 23 at Nova Southeastern University following district testing on Jan. 12.

Students gathered in the auditorium to take part in district testing. This consisted of a 100-question test designed for different clusters, which are events based on different marketing and business skills; there are about 40 events total.

DECA adviser Rachael Dubrow said that while the process can be overwhelming, the results are always exciting.

“Logistically, it is very time consuming, because we have one of the largest chapters in all of DECA,” Mrs. Dubrow said. “However, once all the planning is done, it is exciting to see the beginning of a new competition season.”

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It felt good to know that we got back on the stage and got top 12.

The competition was really tough and we were grateful that we made it.

PHOTO SUBMITTED BY OLIVIA LANDSMAN

ALL WE DO IS WIN: Members of the DECA team show off their trophies after attending the district award ceremony on Jan.23 at Nova Southeastern University. At the ceremony, 12 students from each cluster won.

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the classroom. Teachers make practice tests available for the students ahead of time.

“We encourage students to get a study buddy and practice DECA vocabulary -junior Valeria Coll in addition to classroom learning,” Mrs. Dubrow said.

Mrs. Dubrow said that preparing for The 12 students who received the the event is co-curricular, so a lot of the highest score in each cluster received competition preparation is integrated into awards at the district award ceremony

“I constantly study for my event by taking practice tests and reviewing the material on retail merchandising,” Corliss said. “I truly believe all of the hard work and time paid off.”

Senior Julia Sigman, who placed in the international business plan and testing category, said that throughout the award ceremony, the team truly came together.

“I looked around and saw our entire chapter standing up whenever someone from Cypress Bay’s name was called,” Sigman said. “We all became a team even if we didn’t all know each other.”

Besides testing, students can compete in competitions such as stock market games and presentations.

Junior Valeria Coll came in sixth place in her advertising campaign event and in which she had to create an 11page advertising campaign manual for an existing product. Coll said she and her teammates were proud to have made it so far in the competition for another year.

“It felt good to know that we got back on the stage and got top 12,” Coll said.

“The competition was really tough and we were grateful that we made it.”

Sigman said she knows there is still much work to be done before the upcoming competitions.

“I am so proud of everyone who placed at districts,” Sigman said. “However, we still have many more challenging days ahead as we count down to states and hopefully nationals.”

The DECA team is now preparing for the state competition, which takes place on March 2 -5 in Orlando.

“It’s important for people to accept other people’s creativity to not be so closed-minded and see what’s going on within the world or within the artist,” Catalano said.

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the brim with so much boundless talent, and it’s absolutely wonderful to be able to hold an event to appreciate our student body in such a way.

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Cont. Page 1 “So much goes into the event-- food donations from local vendors, decor, and of course organizing performances,” Dezayas said. “It takes several months to put Coffee House together, but even with all that time, it can still feel quite stressful.”

Literary Club members had to contact food vendors to provide food donations and various students to display their art for decor.

“Literary Club welcomes the challenge that is Coffee House,” Dezayas said. “It helps the Electric Ink staff grow and learn

and can move onto the state competition; junior Madelyn Corliss was one of these students.

“I am extremely proud of my win,” Corliss said. “Now I am even more excited to move on to states, compete and see how well I can do there.”

Corliss came in second place in the retail-merchandising event after preparing ahead of time.

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Dezayas said the best part about Coffee House is being able to display all of the spoken word poets, musicians and artists at the Bay.

-Editor-in-Chief Alex Dezayas

with so much boundless talent, and it’s absolutely wonderful to be able to hold an event to appreciate our student body in such a way,” she said.

Mrs. Seigel said she wishes there could be a forum every week like Coffee House for teens of non-alcoholic age to have a place to gather, have fun and mingle.

“Why shouldn’t everybody have a platform or venue to share their art, voice, words, poetry, music and opinions,” Mrs. Seigel said. “Everybody seems to like coming together as they do at Coffee House.”

Senior Andrea Catalano said her experience at Coffee House was positive and inspiring.

Catalano said her favorite part of the night was when the student band, The Castafellas, performed its set.

“The band really took me by surprise and blew me away; they were amazing,” she said.

This was the second year the event was held in the cafeteria. “[Literary Club] used to hold Coffee House in the media center where it was more intimate, even with close to 500 attendees. When they moved us into the cafeteria, the event lost a little of that Coffee House poetry atmosphere,” Mrs. Seigel said. “But the kids did a really great job of disguising it as best as they could.”

PHOTO BY OLIVIA OHAYON

COOL BEANS: Junior Anish Ghosh performs an original song at the annual Coffee House event on Jan.20 in the cafeteria. Here, students and teachers had the chance to share their music and poetry all night long.

Catalano said she attends Coffee House every year, and always appreciates the effort Literary Club puts into decorating the event.

“I did not even notice a difference

when they moved the event’s location to the cafeteria last year,” she said. “Coffee House always has such a nice atmosphere, and everyone is always supportive of those reading or performing.”

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Curriculum fair provides information on electives

BY LEXI FLECHNER

The curriculum fair took place in the courtyard on Jan. 27 during all four lunches, to showcase all the electives offered here at the Bay. Guidance counselor Shawn McCartan coordinated the event to assist students in choosing their courses.

“Students are able to learn from the teachers what is required for their courses and the type of rigor that is involved with them,” Mr. McCartan said.

To plan the event, Mr. McCartan asked all elective teachers to participate in the fair to help prospective students understand what a course entails.

“The biggest thing was working with the teachers and getting them down there,” Mr. McCartan said. “It’s important for students to get direct input from the teachers that are teaching those courses so they know what to expect.

Teachers set up booths displaying their courses using awards, artwork, movies, inventions and creations of all sorts. They also enlisted the help of students previously or currently enrolled in the classes to give students advice, such as Senior Diego Ramirez, who was assisting prospective students of Advanced Placement Art History and other art classes.

“I feel like there are a lot of little known classes here, especially in the arts,” Ramirez said. “This is a really good opportunity to show the beauty of what we have to offer.”

Ramirez said he participated because he wanted to get the word out about his favorite classes and encourage others to take them as well.

“I feel great representing my programs that I’ve been a part of,” Ramirez said.

“I’m so proud of everything I’ve done and want others to get an inside perspective on what a class is really like.”

Student Government Association (SGA) assisted the guidance department in planning the event by making banners and setting up all the signs. Senior and Corresponding Secretary Jordyn Perkins worked at the SGA booth. Here, she helped out students by explaining SGA to them and helping them choose the right class for them.

“I think it’s a good opportunity to tell students what I do and why I enjoy doing what I do so they can see what will interest them,” Perkins said. “I told students PHOTO BY JOSIE CLANCY how SGA functions and what to do to be successful in the class.”

CURRICULUM CRAZE: Members of Cypress Bay Television (CBTV) promote Junior Laura Marulanda attended the fair to see what classes were offered and get a feel for what they will be like. She creative writing but was willing to look at the movies they will watch in his class and explained to them what is expected “Senior year is a really important year of them once enrolled.

“The fair is an opportunity for stuand I want to make sure I’m taking the right classes that will prepare me for my dents looking at a course number and future and look good on my college tran- aren’t sure what they’re signing up for to see what a class entails,” Mr. Maas said. scripts,” Marulanda said.

As the media specialist, Mr. Maas’ Film teacher and media specialist Shawn Maas showed students at the fair job is to get information to students at all

times and he said this fair is a perfect example of what he does.

“The fair gives students a taste of the electives before they have it sign off on it,” Mr. Maas said. “It gives them the best decision making tools and information so they can make the best choice for themselves.”

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NHS organizes book drive, clean up “It is rewarding to know that we are helping humanity one step at a time.”

BY GABBY SONKIN

National Honor Society (NHS) organized a book collection for the African Library Project, an organization that creates libraries in rural African communities. Members brought in from Jan. 17-20 to the College and Career Readiness Center. More than 1,800 books were collected for students in kindergarten through eighth grade.

“I am so passionate about this organization, because I believe every child should get a chance at an education and building these libraries will allow them to do so,” president of NHS and senior Jacob Wilentz said.

Junior Isabelle Miller came up with the idea for the project, because she took part in a project similar to this one.

“I’ve always been interested in helping children who live in less fortunate places of the world and giving them a chance to learn new things,” Miller said. “It is very satisfying to see the impact this organization has made on different countries by providing children with a wide variety of books.”

The books that were collected will be

PHOTO BY JESSIE CHAIET

BOOK WORMS: National Honors Society (NHS) Vice President Natalie Nicholson helps to collect books for the African Library Project. NHS members gathered more than 1,800 books for students in schools in Africa.

distributed throughout areas in Africa where libraries will be created. This includes communities in Lesotho, Nigeria and Kenya.

“This is the perfect opportunity for people to open their eyes and realize how a small donation can change people’s lives in a huge way,” Miller said.

Similarly to Miller, Wilentz said he feels amazing that he is given the

opportunity to assist places around the world that are struggling to receive a proper education.

“In Africa and many other countries, English is a second language, so I think giving these kids books of all levels can help them succeed in learning and exploring their own interest,” Wilentz said.

In the past, NHS has donated books

to foster homes and other organizations.

NHS adviser Shari Bush said taking part in organizations has always been a success and makes them feel very appreciative for the things they have.

“I think this drive will not only ignite our members to give back, but it also will spark everyone to do good in any way that they can,” Mrs. Bush said. “It is such a worthy cause that helps kids in need all over Africa.”

Senior and vice president of NHS Gabriel Caballero said he is grateful for what he has and also enjoys helping the less fortunate.

“The impact that these books will have on the children is overwhelming and has made me feel very appreciative for the wide range of books I am provided,” Caballero said. “It is rewarding to know that we are helping humanity one step at a time.”

Miller said she feels so fortunate that she was able to work on another project that made a major impact for underprivileged children.

“It was a great experience because I got the opportunity to express my own ideas and turn them into a big project for children in need,” Miller said.

“We can really make a difference in the state and preservation of our environment.”

BY DYLAN SREBNICK

The National Honor Society (NHS) held its annual beach cleanup project on Jan. 22 at Fort Lauderdale Beach. Members came out and participated by picking up trash and cleaning around the beach.

“This event was so much fun, because I was able to spend time with my friends and also do a good deed at the same time,” junior and NHS member Hailey Yaffa said. “ It was a very rewarding experience.”

Junior and NHS member Daniella Paretti said this cleanup experience was a very big eyeopener for her.

“While we were able to pick up a lot of trash, it was very upsetting to see that many people carelessly litter some of the most valuable places of nature,” Paretti said. “Just participating in this event reminded me of that.”

Although members were giving up their spare time on the weekend to partake in this project, many found it to be a rewarding experience.

“Waking up early on the weekend is never an easy thing to do, but when it comes down to a community service project, it was worth it,” Yaffa said.

PHOTOS SUBMITTED BY HAILEY YAFFA

BEACHY CLEAN: Lauderdale Beach on Jan. 22.

“Although the project was only an hour, it still means a lot that we helped out and picked up trash.”

Paretti said the amount of trash on the beach was plentiful, and trash ranged from water bottles to food wrappers and even to cigarettes. She said it was very devastating to see all the litter spread out along the beach.

“I hope that our members of the community as well

as the NHS can come to a realization that we can really make a difference in the state and preservation of our environment,” Paretti said.

Paretti said that the clubs various community service projects bring a sense of happiness to her.

“Being a part of a club like NHS where we get to do community service projects or just help out teachers and students is a great feeling,”

Paretti said.

President of NHS, Jacob Wilentz, said that this event was very hard to plan, but once everything fell into place, it all worked out in the end.

“This even took a lot of time to plan because, we had many beaches to select from to help cleanup,” Wilentz said. “One thing I hope to take away from this experience is how important our environment is and how careful humans need to be

around it.”

Although Wilentz said the event was a success, he has some ideas in mind to further improve the events future success.

“I would have wanted to select a lot more members to partake in this event, because it requires a lot of people to clean a beach,” Wilentz said. ‘With more help, we could’ve made the beaches even more clean.”

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Engineering club expands with real estate sector

BY LEXI FLECHNER

The Engineering Club recently unveiled a new branch to its organization: real estate. In order for anything to be built, land must be beneath it, which ties real estate and engineering together. The branch, run by junior Jessie Linevsky, will continue having meetings every Wednesday. Adviser Christopher Ulman said he feels real estate is critical to engineering and thinks this addition is “Before a project can even be dreamt of, the real estate has to be purchased,” Mr. Ulman said. “This new section allows students who have an interest in the steps before designing a building understand how we purchase the real estate and work with it.”

The goal of the branch is to get a better understanding of all aspects of real estate and learn from professionals in the industry. Linevsky came up with the idea because his dad, a real estate agent, often teaches him about the industry, and he wished to share his knowledge with his peers.

Linevsky said he plans to do this by inviting guest speakers in the industry to meetings.

“I hope to get a ton of guest speakers,

tours of properties and learn as much as we can from professionals and each other,” Linevsky said.

Mr. Ulman said he believes this real estate branch is perfect for the minority of students who understand architecture but want to understand real estate a little more.

“If the kids can understand how land is purchased they can understand why a property as a whole costs as much as it does,” Mr. Ulman said.

Mr. Ulman said this will help students grow and allow them to explore real

PHOTO BY LEXI FLECHNER

HOUSE HUNTERS: Juniors Jessie Linevsky and Rafael Gabaldon introduce a new real estate branch of the Engineering Club to its members. They provided they get to college. information about what the branch would entail including guest speakers and “The best part about high school is property tours.

a college and decide that’s not what you want to do,” Mr. Ulman said.

The branch will serve as a collaborative effort of all the members to research and present and contact speakers to help all of them learn together. Junior and member Rafael Gabaldon is excited for everything to come with the branch.

“This branch grants me an opportunity to guide my fellow students into the path of success in real estate,” Gabaldon said.

“I love the enthusiasm all our members are portraying thus far.”

Gabaldon said the branch is extremely

doing and I’m excited for the direction it join. will be heading.”

“People should join because it gives Tomich said he thinks this new you an easy opportunity to get a head start addition to engineering grants students great opportunities for their futures don’t typically have,” Gabaldon said. because real estate is a good industry Like Gabaldon, junior Hunter Tomich to be involved with, especially on the joined the real estate branch in hopes of commercial side. preparing himself for the real world.

“This is a good opportunity to learn “It has to do a lot with the real world something that not a lot of people know and I’m not really prepared for my future, about,” Tomich said. “I think it will help so I thought this would be a good step to everyone get a head start in life.” getting my life on track,” Tomich said.

“The speakers seem to know what they’re

Marine Society smashes fundraiser

BY CAITY BURDASH

Marine Science Society hosted its third annual Super Smash Brothers tournament on gamers attended the tournament, the tournament, raising a total competed in various video games to win prize money. The total amount of money that had been fundraised was split; half went to the winners of the games and half to the club.

“We raised a lot more money than expected, and everyone that competed had a good time,” Marine Science Society President Paolo Colmenares said.

Professional video gamer David Garcia also attended the Smash event. The Marine Society was able to contact and invite Garcia to the tournament thanks to a personal connection with Marine Science Society Vice President Miguel James.

“I am a competitive player for Smash Wii and I have competed

PHOTO BY CAITY BURDASH

GAME ON: Members of Marine Science Society participated in the annual Super Smash Brothers tournament where they played videogames to fundraise for their club.The club raised $500 at the event.

at the South Florida Regionals,” Garcia said.

Garcia has won three tournaments at the regional level and one at the national level.

“Having a lot of experience with video games allowed me to help out anyone and answer all questions about the games,” Garcia said.

This year, the club had group games as well as individual games being played to help

draw more attention and people to the Super Smash Brothers tournament.

“There were four tournaments going on within two different games,” Colmenares said.

“It’s a very long process but I think everyone that participated got a lot out of the event and had a good time.”

James said this tournament was not only just a fundraiser, but an opportunity for all types

of gamers to socialize.

“This is a unique fundraiser because it is fun for everyone,” James said. “No one is just donating money, they’re paying to play and spend time with friends.”

Senior Eduardo Lopez said like this again, because he was able to meet new people with his same interests and hobbies.

“This is something no other

club really does,” Lopez said. “[The Bay] carries a lot of different people and it’s nice to have all the gamers come together at one event.”

Garcia started off the tournament with an introductory and welcoming speech to help participants become comfortable with the process of the event and the games played.

“I wanted to help organize the event games and encourage students to have fun,” Garcia said.

Garcia said this fundraiser is extremely unique and a great way for gamers to interact with other participants that share their interest, all while supporting a good cause.

“All kids love video games; I can’t think of a better way to raise money,” Garcia said.

The Marine Science Society is planning on hosting another Super Smash Brothers tournament later this year.

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Something TO BELIEVE

BY SHANTY FIERRO OPINION COPY EDITOR

On Jan. 21, the Women’s March, a protest in favor of gender equality and female reproductive rights, took place in more than 500 cities around the United States. Senior Fatima Espinal attended the event to show her support for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and questioning (LGBTQ) rights, solving climate change, the Black Lives Matter (BLM) movement, nondiscriminatory immigration policies and other causes.

“These are fundamental human rights,” Espinal said. “Throughout my lifetime, I have constantly read about movements and protests that have occurred to get these rights I am protesting for, and it is very worrying to believe that these rights may be taken away with this presidency.”

Espinal marched along the streets of Miami to express her concerns about the actions of the new president United States, Donald Trump.

“With this presidency do we want to take 20 steps forward or 20 steps backward? We are at a time when all of these rights are accessible for everyone, and it is devastating to see that they may be taken away or that issues that need to be addressed will no longer be given importance.” Espinal said.

“

I felt so exhilarated at the protest. Being surrounded by so many like-minded people is inspiring, especially when we all come together. Our voice is loud, and it feels like we are being heard.

”

-senior Michaela Hogan Amongst Espinal and the 3 million other people who attended the Women’s Marches was senior Michaela Hogan.

President Trump’s comments toward women.

“I will never pass up an opportunity to protest something like this,” Hogan said. “I felt like I needed to do my part and participate in the march. It was an international day that I did not want to miss out on; we made history.”

Espinal has attended two protests: The Women’s March in Miami, and another protest right after Trump was elected. She feels protests make a difference in getting the word out about certain causes and emphasize the power of uniting people around the country for one purpose.

“I feel incredible when I attend these protests,” she said. “You go to them because certain issues need to be addressed, and it is nice to see that so many people are willing to come together to make a change. You feel like you are moving forward, and it’s nice to feel

IN

united when it seems that everywhere you go these days people are divided.”

The Women’s March was Hogan’s making signs and planning who to go with. Hogan said it was an experience she will never forget.

“I felt so exhilarated at the protest,” she said. “Being surrounded by so many likeminded people is inspiring, especially when we all come together. Our voice is loud, and it feels like we are being heard.

I do think protesting makes a difference.

When this many people agree on an issue, we get the attention of other people in higher power, especially since there are so many people that are passionate and determined to make their issues heard.”

Hogan said she would continue to attend protests in order to speak out about the issues that matter to her.

“I think all women – women of color, LGBTQ women, women with disabilities – and all others should be treated with equal respect as their male counterparts,” Hogan said. “Unfortunately, the president of our country does not seem to agree, and that is a huge reason why my cause is important. If our president does not stand up for us, we have to do it for ourselves.”

Like Espinal and Hogan, junior David for his beliefs. Gonzales took part in a BLM march in Miami to stand up against racial discrimination.

“I think basic human rights to all races and ethnicities are important and should be fought for and supported by everyone,” Gonzalez said.

Although the BLM protests have the reputation of turning violent, Gonzalez feels that is purely a stigma created by social media that needs to be broken.

“I do not think that protestors are violent at all,” he said. “People who do get violent at protests do not understand that the real way to get one’s point across is through peace. People should not judge these movements based on the acts of few, instead look at all of the positive change brought about the cause through peace and having their voices heard.”

Although Gonzalez feels that protesting is an effective way to get a message across and change people’s minds, he said it is also a unifying experience.

“The protest was in Wynwood at night,” he said. “There was a lot of glow in the dark paint and blacklight all around. We were all chanting ‘black lives matter’ and suddenly I look at a wall and someone wrote #blacklivesmatter in neon green paint. It was truly moving to be able to witness that.”

Similar to Gonzalez, senior Naz Hussein has been protesting against discrimination, as well as supporting immigrants.

“People do not really pay attention to Muslim Americans or the disturbing amount of propaganda spread about Arabs or Muslims in general,” Hussein every possible negative story to tell the

PHOTOS SUBMITTED BY FATIMA ESPINAL

POWER TO THE PEOPLE: On Jan. 21, senior Fatima Espinal took part in the

more than 3 million people.

“Protesting is a constitutional right and a way for people to resist and express their opinions, which is crucial when it comes to bringing about change,” Hussein said.

“People view protestors as people who do not see the good things in America. They view them merely as angry civilians who do not appreciate the rights they have.

And most importantly, they think that blasting music to support,” she said. protesting does not change anything. But “I also remember starting a chant and people need to understand this: voicing everyone following through, which felt empowering since we were a really big reminds us of the power of the people and the general discontent that is involved crowd.”

Hussein believes by holding peaceful with this election.” protests, a difference can be made and peoples’ issues can be heard. western world, while ignoring everything else that is going on in the Middle East.”

During the last protest Hussein attended, the group of protesters blocked off I-95 and began to walk in between cars. She said she was pleasantly surprised with the support she received from the people in the cars.

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BY JESSICA SOBEL

lives.”

Like Ms. Alois, campus monitor Maria Smith enjoys being social with students and others throughout the day.

“I always say good morning to the parents that go through the carpool lane, and I love seeing the smile it puts on their faces,” Ms. Smith said. “It is my job to show them that they are dropping their kids off in a safe place.”

Even though the Bay enrolls more than 4,700 students, Mr. Nelson said the security staff does an exceptional job at keeping everyone safe.

“When students come to school, they should feel secure, and the parents should feel that when they send their kids to school that they are in a safe environment,”

With a security staff of 13 people, Vice Principal Jeff Nelson never questions the security of his school. According to Mr. Nelson, the security guards put in an immense amount of work to ensure the Bay’s safety. foremost the number one priority in our school,” Mr. Nelson said. “The security staff are our eyes and our ears and are very important to the school.”

The security guard team consists of campus monitors and specialists.

Monitors mostly walk around school and ensure everything is status quo, and the specialists oversee what the monitors are doing while carrying out other procedures to ensure the safety of the school. Tammy Alois, a campus monitor who began working at the Bay in January, said most of her time is spent making sure everyone is where they are supposed to be.

“

I believe that talking and communication is the biggest and most important thing that people can have. I try to talk to everybody because kids in a happy learning environment are going to learn more.

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PHOTOS BY JESSICA SOBEL

OFFICER REPORTING FOR DUTY: (Top) monitor Tammy Alois surveils the halls during classes to ensure student safety. (Bottom) security monitor Maria Smith utilizes her golf cart to patrol campus from bell to bell.

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-security monitor Tammy Alois “During the school day, other monitors and I make sure everything is safe, all of the doors are locked and walk around and meet the beautiful children who are not where they are supposed to be,” Ms. Alois said. “Safety of the school is always our number one concern.”

Campus monitor George Orband, like Ms. Alois, started working at the Bay at the beginning of January. He said he is committed to keeping the school out of harm’s way.

“I try to ensure everyone’s safety by watching out, being vigilant and making sure things are always going the way they are supposed to,” Mr. Orband said. “So far, the faculty and students are all really nice and I enjoy working with them all.

I look forward to getting to know them better.”

In addition to the campus monitors, there are specialists who are persistently reviewing all of the video surveillance.

Through these videos, they can always see what is going on in all parts of the school.

“The hard work they put in is preventative of a lot of things because they see every person who comes on the campus who may or may not belong,”

We respect and appreciate the hard work the security guards put in I think the students realize, especially in the environment that is out there, the commitment that we have to security.

They are the people who are here to protect us and keep us all safe, and for that, we are all extremely grateful.

Nelson

he said. “I think the security guards do a great job at making sure that everyone feels this way.”

Mr. Nelson said the tremendous amount of effort the security staff puts in every day does not go unnoticed.

“We respect and appreciate the hard work the security guards put in,” he said.

“I think the students realize, especially in the environment that is out there, the commitment that we have to security.

They are the people who are here to protect us and keep us all safe, and for that, we are all extremely grateful.”

Like Mr. Nelson, sophomore Dylan Brandes said he always feels secure in school because he knows the security guards are constantly doing their job.

“Having the security guards here ensures me that if something were to go “I believe that talking and wrong, I would have people to protect communication is the biggest and most important thing that people can have,” our school a much safer place. I think a lot Ms. Alois said. “I try to talk to everybody of people may overlook the work they put because kids in a happy learning in; however, what they do is so important environment are going to learn more. I and should be recognized by all of the have been having so much fun dancing, students and faculty here.”

Ms. Alois said. “Whenever they see something suspicious, they let us know, and we immediately report to the area.”

Before working at the Bay, Ms. Alois spent 20 years working in law enforcement with community involvement. As a result of this, she said she has experience in being able to get to know everyone, while simultaneously maintaining a with the students; I love being with these safe environment. kids, and I love being involved in their

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New Year’s resolutions motivate personal change

BY AMANDA MORGAN GRAPHICS EDITOR

While anxiously awaiting the ball drop on New Year’s Eve, sophomore Jordan Moskowitz made a promise to herself to help others in 2017.

“Ever since I was little, I have always tried to come up with a New Year’s resolution that will change me or help me become a better person,” Moskowitz said.

“However, this year, I thought I would try something new and come up with a New Year’s resolution that would make a change in another persons life.”

Moskowitz focuses on participating in volunteer activities every year. Although her tasks are aimed to have an effect on others, she also notices a change in herself.

“I am a part of a lot of clubs here at [the] Bay, and I have been working on becoming more active in each of these clubs start. In a couple of weeks, I am leading a visit to the old age home for the English Honors Society.”

For junior Nadeska Alvarado, who has just moved from Venezuela, making new friends is her priority in 2017.

“I moved here only a few weeks ago, so everything is all new to me,” Alvarado said. “I wanted to start off the New Year knowing that many things were going to change, and I really wanted to focus on the fact that change is okay.”

Alvarado said she is a shy person, and

to successfully deal with the move, she would have to become more outgoing.

“I really just planned on coming to school and talking to everybody I can just getting out of my comfort zone,” Alvarado said. “I did not know anybody in ly kept to my goal and met a lot of new friends, many of them who are in the same situation as I am.”

However, New Year’s resolutions are not for everybody, according to junior Vanina Schmid.

“Ever since I was little I have always liked the idea of making one important change to yourself every year,” Schmid said. “However, as I got older, I realized that nine out of 10 people, including myself, do not ever really keep these changes.”

Although she does not set her mind to only one purpose at the beginning of the year, Schmid said she still sets reasonable goals for herself.

“I feel it is important to set goals for yourself at times when you are ready,” PHOTOS SUBMITTED BY JORDAN MOSKOWITZ Schmid said. “Not everybody is ready to NEW YEAR, NEW ME: Sophomore Jordan Moskowitz completes her New you try to force yourself into change, it will not work. New Year’s Day is just a date, and there are 364 other days in the year to focus on self improvement.”

Although junior Sarah Schlussel believes New Year’s resolutions may not be consistent, they are still a good place to start transforming into a better person.

Schlussel has decided to dedicate 2017 to being more adventurous in the hopes to

“Although these few years of high school are very busy years, including a full load of hard classes and clubs, they are also meant for a little fun,” Schlussel said. “I feel like in 2016 I focused too much of my time solely on school.”

As a part of her more adventurous lifestyle, Schlussel said she would like to

travel more often with her family.

“One thing that I am really looking forward to this year is the trip I am taking with my family to North Carolina where we are going camping,” Schlussel said.

“I have never gone camping before, and even though I am not a big camper, I am excited to try something new.”

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Seen On Campus: Puma shoes prove trendy with students

BY SOFIA PLAZ

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suede release, Rihanna in col-

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like junior Maria Valen-

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Rihanna and

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Life-changing decisions reveal true identity

BY VALENTINA LESENDE

Senior Flavio Carpio’s life took a sharp turn when he decided to convert from Catholicism to Atheism. “[Converting] changed my life, because it made me ‘free’ in some way,” Carpio said. “It is like I do not have to be careful of my actions and what I do or say because ‘God’ will be disappointed or will punish me for anything.”

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Although it might sound cliché, once I stopped caring about what people thought about me, a

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shoulders.

-senior Ashley Pereira Carpio grew up in a Catholic family, so he said his parents were not always accepting of this choice. However, with the support of his friends, Carpio said the transition was not too hard.

“Changing religions was very good for me, because it made me not have a label,” Carpio said. “I no longer felt the need to think or act a certain way because of what my religion would want me to be. Seeing how religion can affect some people’s lives negatively made me come to the conclusion that I did not want to

associate myself with something harmful that did not make sense to me.”

According to senior Ashley Pereira, being true to herself while revealing her sexuality to others took a lot of courage.

She said coming out as gay has been hard, but she is extremely happy with the support of those around her.

“It feels amazing,” Pereira said.

“Although it might sound cliché, once I stopped caring about what people thought about me, a weight was lifted off my shoulders.”

Although Pereira feels respected by her friends and family, she feels restricted in some aspects of her relationship, because she worries people might be shocked to see her with another girl.

“I needed to come out to everyone, because apparently it is a ‘shocking thing’ that people need to process,” Pereira said. “Sometimes I cannot even hold hands with my girlfriend without people staring.”

Likewise, during Carpio’s freshmen year, he found his true sexuality. He said as gay to more and more people it became easier.

“It changed my life because it made me reveal a hidden part of me to family and friends,” he said. “It built up my courage and made me a much happier person. It feels good not to hide who I truly am.”

For sophomore Eugenia Constantino, converting from Atheism to Catholicism

PHOTO SUBMITTED BY ASHLEY PEREIRA

LOUD AND PROUD: Senior Ashley Pereira (right) and her girlfriend Jodi Lewis (left) attend a Pride fair. Pereira said it took a lot of courage to be true to her sexuality.

was a life changing experience. She said embracing religion has had a very large impact in her life.

“I have recently started believing in God and everything he has done,” Constantino said. “I enjoy learning about his teachings and pray every night for the health and happiness of those around me.”

Constantino said this transition has been easy due to the support of her family and friends.

“My parents have always been

supportive, no matter what my decision may be,” he said. “They may not agree with my point of view but have still been with me through it all.”

Constantino said incorporating religion into her life has brought her internal peace and has improved her quality of life.

“Converting truly opened my eyes to a new world,” she said. “It has affected my entire belief system, and I would never go back.”

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Where are they now?

Alumni Strike ‘I could not ask for anything better.’

Class of 2015

Alumnus Damian Valdez studies and works at the Naval Nuclear Power Training Command.

BY LETICIA ANTONINI FEATURES EDITOR

Class of 2015 alumnus Damian Valdez comes from a long line of military service, and he has recently started to pave his own path in the armed forces.

Valdez is currently an Electrician’s Mate Nuclear Third Class in Charleston, South Carolina where he is training with the navy while simultaneously studying to be a nuclear engineer.

“I could not ask for anything better,” Valdez said. “I am getting an education, experience and leadership with the luxury to see the world while getting paid for it. It has put me in the best possible place right now.”

Throughout high school, Valdez played lacrosse, and he was offered to play at the collegiate level at the end of his senior year. However, due to the lack forces rather than attending a traditional college.

“I was very lucky to grow up in the city of Weston, but I was never a wealthy person by any means,” he said. “As high school went on, I watched all my friends get new cars and anything they asked for, while I worked full time at Duffy’s and purchased my own truck. Coming from a

PHOTOS SUBMITTED BY DAMIAN VALDEZ

NOT FOR SELF BUT COUNTRY: (Top) alumnus Damian Valdez and his classmates were promoted to

at their graduation. The event was held at the Naval Nuclear Power Training Command in Charleston, always a choice. I received two scholar- South Carolina, where Valdez is ships for lacrosse senior year, but neither currently studying to become a school had a military program and the Nuclear Engineer. (Right) Valdez and his family celebrated the ending of his rigorous and demanding training at his bootcamp graduation in Chicago.

I am getting an

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education, experience and leadership with the luxury to see the world while getting paid for it.

It has put me in the best possible place right now.

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-alumnus Damian Valdez burden of tuition was still there.”

Valdez said his most memorable moment at the Bay was during his lacrosse senior night, when he was recognized for his future service.

“At senior night, which was our last name and stated that ‘Damian Valdez is enlisting in the U.S. Navy to be a nuclear engineer,’ and the crowd was astonished,” he said. “All the cheering made me realize that I had made the right move, and I was beyond excited to serve my country.”

Like Valdez, Class of 2014 alumnus are in different sectors. He said they enit is a shame that the service has drawn them apart.

“I met Damian when we were both in together training, and we had a special connection since we knew we were both

contact, we live very different realities being his in the navy and mine in the army.”

Wearing a U.S. Navy uniform comes with many dangers, according to Valdez.

He said the uniform he wears proudly, may eventually be the cause of his death, yet he gets up every morning and still puts it on.

“There are always fears when you are in a uniform because that is when you are the biggest target, but I wear that uniform with pride everyday,” Valdez said. “My

not spent a penny on education. The military will always take care of you and your family, as we are given free medical and health insurance.”

Valdez said he is currently receiving one of the strictest yet most prestigious educations in the United States. Even though there might be some negatives, he said he does not regret his decision.

“Being that my school, the Naval Nuclear Power Training Command, is the

said. “I loved the fact that I had so much experience and that I had all the answers to everyone, and they all looked up to me.

It really prepared me for the strict lifestyle I have now, and I got used to always anliked it and wanted to pursue it further.”

Cruz said he knew Valdez had a bright military future ahead of him the moment they met.

already been in it for a couple of years,” in the U.S., my life is beyond stressed and Cruz said. “It was noticeable that he was compressed,” Valdez said. “We are not al- talented because he quickly got to a high months at a time, and knowing that at any lowed to party, we must wear ironed uni- rank.” moment it could be sunk by a torpedo or forms every day with shined boots, wake struck by a tomahawk. You have to trust right choice for Valdez, he said that dea week and somehow eat three times a attention to the sonar/radar and deploy day. Not to mention, my work day con- must really understand what they are getcountermeasures come an attack.” sists of going to school 13-14 hours a day When comparing himself to his classmilitary. mates at the Bay, Valdez believes he made are not allowed.”

“Do a lot of research on what you want a very smart choice by enlisting in the and what you are getting yourself into,” military. Not only does he attend college at the Bay, Valdez was a member of the he said. “Do not let the recruiters make for free, but he also gets a monthly salary decisions for you; this is going to be your for being in the service. life, not theirs. Make sure it is the right “A lot of my friends from high school highest award given: the superior cadet decision and understand what the comare in debt with student loans and work- award. mitment is and most importantly, the sacing full time while going to school,” Val“During my senior year, I led two dez said. “I am currently going to school, about to receive my associates and I have geant and loved every second of it,” he

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FEBRUARY 2017

In this issue’s recurring segment that gives students an opportunity to learn more World Language Spanish teacher Claudina What was your profession before coming to the United States?

Before coming to the United States, I lived in the Dominican Republic. I graduated with a Master’s Degree in economics and worked with Dominicana Airlines and at the Economics Department at the Senate. Also, I worked on a personal business company; I was in charge of promotions and advertisements in print. After all that I got married and came to live here.

What do you love the most about being a teacher?

I really enjoy helping my students grow into mature people and teaching them to differentiate what is right from what is wrong. Also, I like What do you miss the most back stressing the importance of helping others rather than worrying about home?

[I miss] my friends and the money and their place in society once beaches [in the Dominican Republic]. they grow up as adults and begin Here it is very hard to go to the beach working. for a weekend, while in Dominican What would you be doing if you Republic you can go anytime since it is so close to the city and everything. I were not a teacher? visited the coast at least once a month organization like Planeta Futuro that there. Also, it is very cheap to book a helps Latin American countries in trip and spend some time relaxing at the beaches. need.

Fernandez.

What is your pet peeve?

I really do not like how people steal other people’s ideas and make them their own. I see it around students everyday, and I think it is not honest behavior. When teaching, I always mention the author whose ideas I use, so my students learn that it is important to [attribute] their sources. It has happened to me, as I have seen my words come out other people’s mouths without even mentioning my name, and I really do not like that.

that gap is sometimes too large. I think we do not do enough to improve or stop that gap from growing, and we could by helping others that are less privileged.

If you could have any superpower, which one would it be?

Sometimes I wish I was in a fairy tale and had a magic wand to open my students’ minds to new knowledge, so they would be more interested on the subjects discussed in class.

and planting even more every time I get the chance.

What is your favorite hobby?

I love gardening because I feel a big connection to nature. I love seeing the results of how much my orchids grow and bloom after a long period of time, care and effort. I have a big yard,

What do you consider your biggest accomplishment?

I think I have several accomplishments throughout my life, but the biggest one moving What would you change about to a different country. It was lifethe world? changing, as I was learning a new I would change the economic language and changing my career disparities in society because I think when I was already an adult.

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Early admission lessens senior stress when they apply.”

College and BRACE Adviser Shari Bush believes applying to a school ED or restrictive Early Action (EA) is the right thing for a student if they know that a particular school is exactly what they want for themselves.

“I think you apply ED or restrictive EA if you know in your heart that this is the right place for you,” Mrs. Bush said. “You are making sure that this school is the right place for you socially, emotionally,

BY FRANKI ROSENTHAL ONLINE EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

For senior Claudia Haddad, applying Early Decision (ED) to the University of Pennsylvania was not ever something she thought she would have the courage to do.

“Initially, I was against applying Early Decision because it was just never something I thought I would be able to do,” Haddad said. “I actually decided to apply ED to Penn only a month before the deadline. Once I visited, I absolutely loved everything about it from the physical environment to all it had to offer with what I wanted to study.”

Like Haddad, other seniors at the Bay struggled with deciding what universities they want to attend and with what method they want to apply.

possible way. If this is the dream school that you want for yourself, then yes, you apply ED because it gives you every advantage possible in the end.”

Haddad said if you know a school is your top choice and you cannot imagine seeing yourself anywhere else, there is no reason you shouldn’t commit to it.

“

“

me by applying ED

earlier which was a big

“

PHOTOS SUBMITTED BY CLAUDIA HADDAD

“

-senior Andrew Sandler

-BRACE adviser Shari Bush

“I think it takes a lot of courage to apply early to a school,” senior Andrew Sandler said. “There are so many options, so you really need to know exactly what you want before you can commit. I knew that I wanted to go to Duke for a long time, but it still took a lot of courage to actually commit to it and apply ED.” While Sandler believes applying to a school Early Decision can be scary, he was happy he did it because he said it increased his chances at admission.

I was also done with the college process a lot earlier, which was a big relief,” Sandler said. “You have a one fourth chance of getting into Duke if you apply ED so it did not hurt for me to see if I could get in.”

Similarly to Sandler, Haddad said she was excited when she found out she was accepted to Penn because she was able to relax and she did not have to complete any more college applications.

“I think knowing in December where you are going to school brings a huge sense of relief,” Haddad said. “I think I was most happy I did not have to write

DECISIONS, DECISIONS: Senior Claudia Haddad visits her future school the Univ. of Pennsylvania. Haddad is among the 9.4 percent of applicants that were accepted into Univ. of Pennsylvania early decicion this year. Haddad is dressed in full Penn attire after being accepted on Dec. 9.

accepted that I was going there, if I were to get in, and not have applied to any other schools.”

Wilentz believes for any student applying to college and especially a student applying to their dream school, it is important to have faith in the process and never lose hope while going through it all.

“I have learned a lot about the college process this year and not getting accepted into Harvard has only made me look back at the entire process with more dignity and pride than I had walking into it,”

will ultimately be happy at any school that I attend. I genuinely think that a positive attitude is paramount throughout the whole process.”

While Harvard does not offer an Early Decision option to prospective students, Wilentz said it still took a lot of guts for him to think about the possibility of spending his next four years there.

“This decision ultimately decides my fate for not only the next four years of my life but way beyond that as well,” Wilentz said. “Applying to a school early

senior year is harder than one might expect, and colleges do see those grades when you apply regular decision.”

Like Sandler and Haddad, senior Jacob Wilentz was hoping for a similar outcome from his top choice school Harvard University but was not accepted to the university early.

“Harvard only adheres to a restrictive Early Action policy, so I would not have been committed to attending if I were to have been offered admission,” Wilentz applying to college in general is just as said. “However, I think I would have everything happens for a reason, and I nerve wracking for anyone regardless of

“I think if the school is your dream school then the process should not be too frightening,” Haddad said. “Everyone has to decide to ‘commit’ to a school at some point; sometimes I even question if I made the right decision, but I just remind myself of all the reasons I applied ED to Penn over other schools.”

Bush believes, like Wilentz, Sandler, and Haddad, it requires a lot of courage from a student to tell themselves that they truly want to apply ED to a college or university.

“Every student needs to go into the college process very mindful about everything that they will be going through with deciding where they want to apply to actually waiting to see who accepts them,” Mrs. Bush said. “I think it does require a lot of courage for a student to say they want to apply ED because they are ultimately saying that they absolutely know what they want and where they want to be for the next four years.”

In the end, Wilentz said he has no regrets about his college process and knows it takes a lot of courage out of any high school senior to successfully apply “I have absolutely no regrets about anything I did to apply to college,” Wilentz said. “I am happy with where I applied, how I applied and the decisions that all of the schools have made. As a freshman who came into [The] Bay with myself for believing that I can apply to such a prestigious school and still accept the outcome with pride.”

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Q&A with a current student

United States Military Academy is a public institution in West Point, New York. Cypress Bay graduate of the class of 2015 Celiné Gunderman is a sophomore there. She spoke to The you get the right uniform and much more.

Circuit’s Alexis Epstein via text.

It is a very detailed process. One of the biggest hurdles is getting a congressional How did your time at the Bay nomination, which you can obtain from prepare you for the United States a congressman, congresswoman, senator, Military Academy (USMA)? vice president or president. There are other [High school taught me the importance people you can go to for a nomination as of] valuing my education. If you take well, but most cadet candidates put in an advantage of the classes and the amazing application for their congresswoman/man teachers at [the Bay], you will learn a lot, and go through an interview process. It is and it will help you to be successful at a really long process and can be started any school whether it’s a top-tier college, as early as second semester junior year; a vocational school, a community college or a military academy. It also helped me semester senior year. with time management because [the Bay] is academically rigorous, and I had Why did you choose to go to the to juggle between school, clubs, family, USMA? friends and of course sleep.

I wanted to work more with people.

The army seems like the spearhead of How would you describe the operations, and you are always working application process? with people, whether they are civilians, The process is a lot more thorough than a normal college application. It asks diplomats. I feel like the army will also for the basics like your grades, extra- best prepare me for life after the military, curriculars, a few personal questions and two essays. Since you are in the process years or go on for 20 plus years. of also going into the military, they do thorough background checks on you How was West Point different than for security and information, doctors you expected? appointments to see if you are medically I could probably write a paper on

FEBRUARY 2017

INFORMATION COMPILED FROM HTTP://COLLEGEAPPS.ABOUT.COM

everything I did not expect, for better and for worse. I guess one of the biggest surprises is that expected other cadets to be robotic, super boring and displaying the same personality. I thought this way

though, since some of our buildings are really old, the rooms we live in can be subpar. Sometimes there is no heating, no hot water, and broken toilets, but you just work through it.

a diverse group of people here with Are you planning on joining the different strengths, likes, dislikes. Not military after college?

Yes, after graduating from USMA, of us love going to dance festivals and writing poetry. While we may still hold years active duty and three years in the the responsibilities of a cadet and may reserve. Instead of paying for our college have to mature faster than our peers at other schools, at the end of the day, we are pay it back with time in the military. also 18-26 year old college students who go out, have fun, call their parents every What made you decide to go to a military university? to pay taxes.

There are two answers to this question.

The basic answer is that I wanted to serve, What is it like living on the campus? but I also wanted to get an education. West It is surreal sometimes. You are living Point gives cadets this opportunity and and going to school in buildings from pushes you to be a better person. It also gave me a way to major in what I really generals surround you. Just last week my love, English, and still be guaranteed friends and I decided to go work out with a job in the military after college. The the superintendent of West Point, [who more complicated answer is that West is] a three star general. I am pretty sure Point just seemed like the place I needed you do not get that kind of opportunity to go to. While I had other opportunities anywhere else in the world. The campus to go to other universities, I just could also is absolutely gorgeous, especially not imagine myself going anywhere else in the fall and spring. On the downside besides USMA.

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Lesser known attractions toured

BY LETICIA ANTONINI FEATURES EDITOR

In middle school, senior Camille Morar and her sisters used to sit bored in their living room, until they came to the realization that they no longer wanted to live a sedentary life. She said they started by exploring places nearby Weston, but as they ran out of options they began to search other locations.

“After seeing everything Weston has to offer, my sisters and I wanted more,” Morar said. “Markham Park and Vista View were not enough to satisfy our adventurous selves, so we had to venture out onto new territory.”

Since then, Morar learned more about what the state of Florida has to offer, and she began to explore with her peer group.

“Since I know about more places than my friends, I always try to arrange for my friends and I to go on weekend adventures,” Morar said. “I especially like to visit the great natural features of Florida, such as the Blowing Rocks Preserve, because it gives us the chance of seeing something new, and it is usually for free. Florida has beautiful beaches, but if you visit the same one every time you will not be experiencing Florida to its full potential.”

Senior Duncan Ross, who often accompanies Morar in her adventures, said his opinion about Florida has

changed, since he started exploring the under-appreciated aspects of Florida.

“I always knew that Florida had many things to do, but I just never thought they would be so close and so fun,” Ross said. “For some reason, I just had the impression that everything interesting was super far away, and I never researched to prove otherwise.”

Many of Morar’s adventures include visiting Florida’s natural attractions, as well as cultural attractions, which she said can easily be found in the Miami area.

“The best part of going to these places is adventuring around somewhere you do not know; not knowing what is behind each corner is such a beautiful thrill,” Morar said.

Morar believes there is a common misconception that South Florida is a place where “there is nothing to do,” however, she thinks people who think that PHOTO SUMBITTED BY CAMILLE MORAR way are simply too lazy to investigate the ADVENTURES IN THE UNKNOWN:Seniors Camille Morar and Duncan Ross unknown.

“The people that stay home and explore the Blowing Rocks Preserve in Hobe Sound, Florida. They discover new complain are either lazy or blind,” she widow territories and attractions every weekend. said. “There is so much to do in Florida; really know about them,” Martins said.

“I think that is mostly people in Weston just because we are so closed in something that interests you.”

Like Morar, senior Larissa Martins different things to do, and I am not sure this bubble and do not really try to branch out,” she said. “I do not think people in Aguiar believes most people do not put in everyone wants to put in that effort.”

Martins also believes the Miami, if you ask them, will say there is misconception that Florida has little to nothing to do in South Florida.” to do in Florida.

“I think most people do not visit offer is mostly centered around Weston Florida attractions because they do not residents.

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THE THINGS THEY CARRIED FEATURING MICHAEL MALONEY AND HIS BACKPACK “The Things They Carried” is a recurring segment that examines the personalities of individual students through the contents of their backpacks. This month, Features Photo Editor Saige Fisher interviews junior Michael Maloney to

Crayons Junior Michael Maloney carries around a box of crayons in his backpack, as he loves to doodle in his free time. In the future, Maloney hopes his sketches are inked on his body. Maloney said he loves tattoos and would never waste a drawing that could potentially become a tattoo idea.

“I carry around my crayons because I like to draw cute pictures on the back of my tests if I have time,” Maloney said. “Not only do some of my drawings turn into tattoo ideas, but I am hopeful that if I ever need extra points on my test and my teachers like the pictures, then they can help me out a little bit.”

floss all times for the refreshing minty taste and for dental come in handy, as he is in drama, and it is important that he does not have food in his teeth at all times.

I have been super obsessed with dental health, and my teeth,” he said.

Amethyst Crystal Astrology is amongst many of Maloney’s interests, for that, he carries around an amethyst crystal that is correspondent to his sign, Sagittarius. He said the crystal is meant to calm his spirits.

“It is meant to bring ease and contentment,” he said.

“Whenever I am super stressed because of school, looking at it always makes me feel calmer and brings some reassurance that everything is going to be okay.”

“

Not only do some of my drawings turn into tattoo ideas, but I am hopeful that if I ever need extra points on my test and my teachers like the pictures, then they can help me out a little bit.

”

-junior Michael Maloney

Coloring Book For Maloney, coloring in the pages of the book has a therapeutic effect. When shading mind wander and forget about everything that is happening around him.

“I carry a coloring book around with me, because when I get some downtime in a class or during lunch, I like to color in all the cool designs that are in the book and make colorful paper airplanes out of them,” he said.

Calculators Maloney carries three d i f f e r e n t calculators: a graphing calculator

for his

duties as the treasurer for both chorus and drama and a spare calculator in case he loses one of the others or if they run out of battery.

“Math is one of my favorite subjects,” he said. “I think it is kind of cool how each calculator can do something different.”

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Couples prepare for Valentine’s Day

BY CASSIDY SHELDON MULT. NEWS EDITOR

With love in the air and heart-shaped chocolate boxes all around, sophomore Vicky Arteaga celebrates her favorite day of the year, Valentine’s Day, with her boyfriend. For Arteaga, spending holiday all the better.

“Valentine’s Day is so special for me because I get to celebrate the most romantic day of the year with the person I love,” Arteaga said. “I get to surprise him and spoil him, and he does the same for me.”

“

Valentine’s Day is so special for me because I get to celebrate the most romantic day of the year with the person I love. I get to surprise him and spoil him, and he does the same for me.

“

-sophomore Vicky Arteaga

Arteaga believes the best gifts are the more simple and heartfelt ones.

“People think that they need to buy the perfect gift for their boyfriend or girlfriend,” Arteaga said. “But really the spend your all of your time with.”

LOVE IS IN THE AIR: Sophomores Guillermo Ponce and Vicky Arteaga spend

Sophomore Jason Blum is celebrating this Valentine’s Day with his girlfriend.

For Blum, the holiday is all about showing his love and affection to his girlfriend. He said he feels as he has aged, the meaning of this holiday has changed.

“When I was younger, everyone in your class was your Valentine, so it was never anything special to me,” Blum said.

“As I have gotten older, the holiday has become a bigger deal, and it is more about a single relationship rather than 20.”

Language Arts teacher Joyce Seigel

shares a short story with her classes each year about Valentine’s Day, which illustrates that Valentine’s Day is not solely based on a single relationship. other tend to feel left out and depressed.

“I have seen too many people over the years feel like they are not remembered on Valentine’s Day, but it is not about that,” Mrs. Seigel said. “Valentine’s Day should be about everybody caring about each other.”

In Mrs. Seigel’s opinion, the holiday is nothing more than a normal day, which has become over marketed and transformed into a love battle for couples.

“Like any holiday, it’s become more commercialized and more and more money is spent, as people are trying to out do each other with gifts,” she said. “We should not have to feel that material gifts represent our love. It is not bad to want to give or receive gifts, but it should not become a competition.”

Like Mrs. Seigel, Blum said he sees the holiday as just another day of the year and that if he did not have a girlfriend, the day would have less importance. Blum feels the love and affection displayed everyday, not just on Valentine’s Day. “The important things to keep in mind on Valentine’s Day are happiness, friends and love,” Blum said. “However, we should not only feel these things when society tells us to.”

Although Blum and Mrs. Seigel believe the holiday is a scam, Arteaga said she looks forward to spending Feb. 14 with her boyfriend. Although she said the holiday seems overrated in regards to huge gestures and gifts, she sees the day as a motivation to recognize the importance of her relationship.

“This holiday made me realize that it is a blessing to spend it with somebody who loves you and gives you everything the best that they can,” Arteaga said. “I think it is really cute how we dedicate a day toward celebrating the love that people have for one another.”

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Harsh childhood shapes worldly views FEATURES EDITOR

While growing up in Iraq, senior Naz Hussein was fortunate enough to have a backyard; however, playing in it was off limits.

“We were not allowed to go on our garden and backyard to play because the fences were low,” Hussein said. “There were people who kidnapped kids from inside their houses.”

Throughout her childhood, Hussein said there were moments when her and her family’s lives were in jeopardy.

“I remember we were just sitting in the kitchen one time, and suddenly, the ground started shaking because a bomb had gone off across the street,” she said. “Due to the explosions, all of our windows broke and my mom, who was washing dishes in front of a window, had to move away very quickly, but she was still injured with minor scratches. It was very scary, and I was very young.”

Due to the frequent bombings around her, Hussein was limited in freedom while growing up.

“

The whole process was very sad and depressing, do. To go from a local,

“

-senior Naz Hussein “Bomb attacks were very common in Iraq, but not to the point where we would not be able to live. There were [still] enough so that we were phased by them,” she said. “They would happen, but we learned that life just went on. I can look back and say that I did not really have that much of a childhood; everything was very blurred.”

With age, Hussein became accustomed to the fear of bomb attacks.

“There was an incident where I was coming back from school with our driver since my mom was at work,” she said.

“Then, my mom called us to let us know that a bomb was going to explode, and she could not even come home to be with her children because it would not be safe. We rushed home and took precaution, but I remember that I sat in front of the TV and just waited for it. By that point I was not

even as affected by it because it was just so common.”

At the age of six, Hussein moved to the neighboring country of Lebanon, in search of a safer life.

“

experiences shaped me else.

“

BY LETICIA ANTONINI

-senior Naz Hussein “The lack of safety was, amongst other personal reasons, the main reason as to why we moved,” she said. “To be honest, there is no future [in Iraq]. Even though there was no ISIS back then, it was still pretty dangerous. You do not want your kids to stay in such a dangerous place and try to develop a life there.”

For Hussein, life in Lebanon was much better. She relocated to its capital, Beirut.

She said she developed a good life with family and friends, but ended up moving to the United States eight years later.

“Beirut is a very nice, small city, and I lived right in the heart of it, so I could walk everywhere,” she said. “I had friends there, and I had already established where I was and who I was among my people, so life was generally very good. Soon enough, I got the news that I was moving to the United States and that I would need to leave everything behind.”

According to Hussein, the sudden move to the United States was challenging due to the short notice. Through a refugee program, the Husseins moved into a onebedroom apartment in West Palm Beach. us in a small apartment in a beaten down neighborhood,” she said. “The whole process was very sad and depressing, everyone was different and there was nothing to do. To go from a local, cute big chain stores was horrible because everything was deserted, and there was never anyone outside.”

Hussein said her high expectations for the ‘promised land’ of the United States were shattered once she got here.

“Everyone has the perception that everything is so beautiful in the [United States,] but when I got here I realized that everything was actually not so beautiful,” she said.

Hussein said living through such much faster than other kids.

“Being exposed to those experiences shaped me differently than everyone else,” Hussein said. “It may come in handy when I am older, but they made me grow up too fast.”

Although Hussein lived through dangerous situations, she said she has still

PHOTOS SUBMITTED BY NAZ HUSSEIN

LAND OF THE FREE: Senior Naz Hussein moved to the United States from Iraq when she was 14. Hussein and her family visit the Statue of Liberty on a trip to New York City shortly after she moved.

not been exposed to all of the dangers of the world.

“When there was that threat of a hurricane, I was freaking out just because I haven’t been through one, and I thought it was going to be bad because American houses are constructed so badly,” she said.

“My mom’s reaction was just, ‘Whatever, if we’ve been through bombings we can survive a hurricane.’”

Through the events in Lebanon and

Iraq, Hussein believes she developed a different view of the world than most other people.

“Everyone here [in the United States] always freaks out about national tragedies but don’t pay any attention to the international news,” she said. “They never focus on the hundreds of people dying in Iraq and Syria. It is really a matter of perspective.”

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FEBRUARY 2017

“I never give up on any task that comes my way. i think that is a great way to accomplish my goals.”

“I love trying new, adventurous and risky activities that give me adrenaline, like skydiving.”

Jared chung freshman

ana campos sophomore

“Performing in drama and in front of a crowd gets me out of my comfort zone.”

nichole lyon sophomore

i k at

BY KATHERINE GIBSON ONLINE FEATURES EDITOR

“Terrifying”: that is the word senior Asher Michelson would use to describe the moment he decided to come out of the closet as gay. At the beginning of his freshman year, Michelson said he

t s gn

t s pe

was coming to terms with important aspects of his identity, but telling the whole world how he really felt was not an easy task.

“It is not that I wanted to make it public, it is just that I was so tired of not being true to myself and lying and putting on this facade everyday,” Michelson said.

Michelson said as a teenage boy he had many concerns about coming out. He feared the possibility of being excluded, bullied and even kicked out of his own house after revealing his sexuality.

“I overcame the fear by just doing what I call ‘ripping off the bandage’,” Michelson said. “I had everything set up. I had my best friend’s house to stay at and her family to support me in case my parents kicked me out. I had a little support group of people that I knew would back me up, and one day I went into school and just told some

r a w o

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u o c d

“At debate tournaments, I had to speak in front of people I did not know including teachers and judges, which was very intimidating,” Piderit said. “Being in the SGA class also brought me a lot of opportunities to come out of my shell and help me with my leadership goals.”

Piderit said it took a lot of courage for her to put herself out there, but it felt easier once she realized people do not judge her as harshly as she judges herself.

“The biggest lesson I learned was that the greatest fear a person has is fear itself,” she said. “What scared me more than anything was speaking in front of others and failing to do well, so when I recognized this, it was much people totally nonchalantly.”

Later that day, Michelson decided to come out to easier to conquer my fear.” his parents as well, and he said he was pleasantly surprised speaking, she has been participating in more debate tournathat they were so accepting of him.

“There are positive stories like mine and horror sto- ments and volunteering to lead and plan projects for SGA. “Facing my fear is the best thing I have ever done,” ries as well,” Michelson said. “Some people do not have she said, “It opened up so many doors for me that I never the luxury of coming out to a loving family and community would have imagined I would have had as options in my like I had.”

Sophomore Brianna Piderit agrees that having a life.”

Unlike Piderit and Michelson who willingly faced supportive group of friends around to push you to face your fears is necessary and encouraging. Her whole life, Piderit their fears, junior Isabella Churillo said she had no choice has had intense anxiety over having to speak in front of but to be courageous and persistent through her hardship. groups of people.

“I get very nervous in front of people and am scared “I slide-tackled someone in a game and right after they are judging me, and I feel like I could throw up,” Piderit said. “I end up not even knowing what I am saying I couldn’t move,” Churillo said. “Any movement throughout my body hurt my hip terribly.” because I’m so scared.”

As a player of the Weston Football Club (FC) socPiderit’s fear of public speaking was holding her back from achieving her goals of becoming a leader and an cer travel team, Churillo said she feared her injury would prevent her from ever playing as well as she did before. involved member of the school and community.

“I was scared that I would never play again because “I have always wanted to be a leader,” she said. “I it is such a big part of my life,” Churillo said. “I do not feel like a good quality of being a leader is speaking in front of people in order to guide them in the right direction, know what I would do with all my time.”

Churillo dedicated large amounts of time to physiso I decided that it was time for me to get over my fear of public speaking.”

As a freshman, Piderit enrolled in debate classes worked hard jogging, lifting weights and doing her own and applied to be a part of the Student Government Orga- workouts, which led her back to the girls varsity soccer team. nization (SGA) Executive Board.

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“It has been a while now, so I am back to normal and grateful that my recovery was so fast,” Churillo said.

Churillo said although her situation was horrible, she feels happy she was able to work through her fears and “I believe anyone who has suffered a sports-related

again,” she said.

Similarly to Churillo, junior Sarah Blanco did not have a choice but to overcome her fear. Although she was born in the United States, Blanco is not a native English speaker. She did not learn English until she attended elementary school, and she feared the language barrier would cause her to be isolated during class.

“The kids in my class and all the people in my community only spoke English, so it was very hard for me to

English,” Blanco said.

In order for Blanco to become bilingual, she had to be open to constructive criticism from many people, which she found quite intimidating.

“It took a lot of hard work for me to overcome my fear of not being able to speak English,” Blanco said. “I studied very hard in class and spent lots of time at home practicing. We only speak Spanish at home, so it was a struggle for me to have to speak two different languages.”

According to Blanco, learning to speak English took persistence and caused her a lot of anxiety, but she is glad she worked through it.

“Once you have a goal, even though there are so many obstacles in the way, it is important to try your hardest in order to achieve it,” Blanco said. “It is nice to see that even though there were so many hardships you had to confront, you can look back and see that you made it happen for yourself.” for anyone, but with courage, anything is possible. but trust me, what I did was not easy,” Michelson said. “It is easy for any straight male to go out the door in sport shorts, a t-shirt and a SnapBack, but it takes way more to accept who you are and walk out that door in the morning wearing something a bit out of your gender trope.”

Michelson said making the decision to conquer his doubts and openly come out was a life changing experience.

“I feel free, I feel liberated and most of all I am happy,” Michelson said. “Being gay does not embody who I am, it is just another beautiful part of me I needed to accept.”

LAYOUT BY MORGAN COMITE AND LARA FINAN

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FEATURES

FEBRUARY 2017

New jobs create money habits, independence

BY COLE KAUFFMAN

who go off to college.”

Passarini is not the only student at the Senior Natasha Passarini started Bay that manages her own money. Senior working at Aeropostale with the intent of Julia Miller, a cashier at Publix, enjoys the being able to afford her own car, but managing money brought her many other les- comes with working.

“It feels really good to get a paysons and responsibilities.

“I decided to get a job to pay for my car and its expenses monthly, including conscious about how I spend my money gas, and anything else I need to put to- now that it’s my own. I’m saving most of wards it,” Passarini said. “I also adopt- it for when I go to college.”

Although somewhat reluctant to get ed a cat that I care for on my own, and I spend the money for my own entertainment. Whenever I go out with my friends, to appreciate the social opportunities provided by her job. it comes out of my own pocket.”

FEATURES COPY EDITOR

“

It feels really good to get a paycheck. I am

“

-senior Natasha Passarini Although Passarini said she liked her job at the clothing store, she eventually chose to work at Chipotle for the employ“Even though I enjoyed working at Aeropostale, driving to Sawgrass [Mills Mall] everyday was very annoying and parking was never easy,” Passarini said.

“I decided to apply for a job at Chipotle because not only is it much closer to my home, but it also offers a lot of employ-

made me,” Miller said. “They had been asking me for a while to get a job, so I can pay for things like if I went out shopping or to eat with friends. Now, I have the job for that reason and for college so that I do

ILLUSTRATION BY COLE KAUFFMAN

Senior Celeste Velasco works at A.C. Moore and aims to save her paychecks for future use. With graduation around the corner, she said she is trying to save money for when she moves out, but her recurring expenses and reduced work

ents, dates and entertainment,” Cooke said. “I usually do not use that money to save.”

Junior Taylor Lessem applied for the job as a dancer at Pure Energy last year, so she could receive her own income while doing something she is passionate “Obviously now I am more respon- about. sible for family expenses,” Velasco said.

“Sometimes it is my turn to get the gro- because I needed a way to get money,” ceries or pay for my phone rent, so it is Lessem said. “I heard that dancing with not only about what I want but what [is] Pure Energy was not only a job that pays needed at my house as well.” well but can also be really fun. Although Unlike Velasco, senior Danny Cooke, a big reason I work is for money, I conan employee at the ice cream store tinue working because of the close relaCREAM, uses most of his new income tionships I’ve made [with people at work] to support his social life outside of work. and the excitement and fun at each party “It feels awesome making money of I work at.” my own,” Cooke said. “I use it for just Lessem splits her paycheck to use for stuff like going out with my friends, pres- two separate purposes: for now and for

the future.

“Sometimes, I split half of the money for me to spend on things I need everyday, such as gas,” Lessem said. “The other half goes into a savings account that I’ve been saving since freshman year to use to travel around the world when I’m older.”

Passarini said having a monthly income has changed her perspective of money, and she advises all seniors to get a job before leaving for college. made me cut down my expenses and start thinking about putting money aside in the case of emergencies,” she said. “It made me realize that money is hard to make, and it goes away extremely quickly; I always need to stay on top of my budget.”

Last year’s goals become new habits

BY JOLIE SONKIN

Sophomore Derek Sheinberg started 2016 with one goal in mind: to reach out to those who feel isolated at school and make them feel like they belong. By the end of the year, Sheinberg considers that his goal had been accomplished.

“I accomplished my goal by starting the Helping Overcome Problems Effectively (HOPE) club which allows people to discuss anything,” Sheinberg said. “Starting this club was as easy as introducing myself to someone sitting alone at school and conducting a conversation with them.”

Sheinberg said his accomplishment has impacted not only his community, but it has also changed his own perspective on life.

“I wanted to help my community because I believe that everyone should feel needed and included,” he said. “Being PHOTO SUBMITTED BY DEREK SHEINBERG able to put a smile on someone else’s face is an amazing feeling. Throughout this PASSED THE FINISH LINE : Helping Overcome Problems Effectively (HOPE) skills and ability open up to a wide range of personalities.”

Sheinberg plans to expand his club to other schools, in order to spread awareness throughout neighboring communities.

“My goal in 2017 is to manage this organization [HOPE] on a larger scale,” he said. “We are reaching out to other schools to try and have them implement our club. By doing this, I believe we can make a difference in many communities by changing people’s lives.”

Freshman Hannah Lassner, on the

other hand, planned on making the most out of 2016 by overcoming one of her biggest fears: sharks.

“I slid down a 60-foot water slide into a pool of sharks called ‘The Leap of Faith,” Lassner said. “Going on this adventure brought me out of my comfort zone, but it was really the most fascinating thing I have ever done.”

Lassner said her accomplishment

involved both excitement and fear.

“Ever since I was little, I have always been afraid of sharks,” she said. “I would not even step foot in the ocean. Normally, I love roller coasters and water slides, but the fact that sharks were on the bottom freaked me out. I was really scared but I wanted to prove to my brother that I was capable of doing it, so I did it.”

After conquering her greatest fear in

the Bahamas, Lassner said she wants to keep facing her fears in the future. She said her experience was one of a kind, and she cannot wait to do it again.

I felt so energized,” Lassner said. “I loved the feeling of being courageous. I kept going on the ride over and over again, which taught me it is important to be adventurous and face your fears. It might turn my back on it because I would have regretted it.” goal by being voted vice president in the Bay’s DECA club, which has more than 900 members.

Executive Vice President of Florida DECA by becoming co-president of our giant chapter,” Valiente said. “This not the motivation to continue further into DECA.” According to Valiente, this achievement gave her the opportunity to improve her leadership skills and expand the DECA organization.

“Throughout my journey, I experienced challenging tasks, such as with people and leading chapter projects,” she said. “I surprised myself with what I could accomplish, which made me eager to see what else I could do. This gave me allows me to believe running for Florida DECA is not out of reach.”

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BOYS BASKETBALL CLINCH 3-PEAT Lightning beats Piper Bengals in district championship, 39-36.

Teams battle through injury plague The future of a sports franchise is unpredictable. A team’s season can take an unplanned turn when key players are hurt. These unfortunate losses make general managers and coaches have to prepare for the tough road ahead; however, that is the time where teams show their true character and go to battle without their big guns.

Things for the Florida Panthers have not been easy since they lost in the Quarthe reigning Atlantic division champions.

After a series of trades and new acquisiback to three days before the opening PHOTO SUBMITTED BY MATT ULINO

BY ELI FUHRMAN MULT. SPORTS EDITOR

s varsity basketball team defeated Piper High

ers have been hurt this season and more

district championship. not only winning the district this year,

been cycling around players from minor league divisions for the past several months. All of the players have been grinding for quite some time without their stars and has shown true perseverance with the lack of depth on the bench.

seeing them succeed.”

“

sey Devils. Huberdeau suffered a lacerated Achilles tendon when an opponent stepped on him by accident with his

We just needed to let our

“

good.

After a long stretch without their three -

- sophomore Tyler Krivitzkin

about his team’s talents. what it takes to make it to the district championship and further,” he said.

and Huberdeau both made their return to Ducks. The two young stars both registered a point in their return on the gamewinning goal.

The Panthers are not alone, however.

PHOTO BY OLIVIA OHAYON

CUT THE NET: (Top) (from left) sophomore Kenny Anderson Jr., seniors Jacob Krivitzkin and Matt Ulino, sophomore Tyler Krivitzkin, senior Jermaine Foster

professional leagues. Most recently, the New England Patriots competed without their marquee tight end three weeks before the playoffs began.

would be good.”

had surgery on his back. Even without

to playing with each other.”

The matchup with Piper was the third regular season matchups.

“Even though they got the better of us this season, we knew that if we could play a solid game we could get the win,” His hopes were met during the game,

the rest of the game, the team focused on keeping the tempo and not slipping up. playoffs last year.

“We want to keep winning, plain and

team’s defense. itself.”

After a season of hard work and our best defensive game of the season, no question.”

still went on and defeated every team af“We have shown how good we can play in many games this season, so we need ball.”

goals.

“When you spend so much time working to play like a team, there is no wants that to change this year against. feeling like when you see it show on the in the game,” sophomore guard Tyler

The team is not done for the season, as it will move on to the regional

did account for a tremendous amount of New England’s offensive game. The Pats for.

Teams show the most perseverance and character when a team loses a key tion to be in, but it is in times of desperation where the boys are separated from the men.

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FEBRUARY 2017

Varsity wrestling crushes competition to end year The boys varsity wrestling team was successful on the mat throughout its team performing well at the Louisiana “The work effort of this team gets

week in the gym or the cafeteria, because returning players from last year’s season, “The majority of our team is new to

PHOTO BY JESSICA SOBEL

TAKE DOWN: Sophomore Jordan Carabrea pins down his opponent in a match

the Louisiana Duels, a national wrestling several out of state teams, junior Jack permanent practice area hurts the team in

“I have no fear for the team’s future as our performance this year was quite to see how things turn out in the time to “Getting better every week is the key

easier for the girls to learn techniques “Because I am the same age as some

fortable to learn from your peers rather PHOTO SUBMITTED BY AMANDA GRAPIN

“I can tell that a few of the girls are

“Like any sports there are many chal she is hopeful this season will be a suc

interacting with the rest of the team,” players are new to the game, but I can tell they are overcoming each obstacle with I see great potential in this team,” Gor the team still has some kinks to work out

Sports Calendar Varsity Boys Lacrosse

Varsity Softball

Varsity Boys Tennis

SPORTS

FEBRUARY 2017

BY ALEXIS SOBEL MANAGING EDITOR

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31

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THE PATH TO

After leading the Bay’s football team

offensive lineman Danny Isidora and

Three former Lightning football players are training for the NFL Draft in April. understand the traditions that the older

As a four-year letterman at Tulane

Tulane University linebacker Nico Marley

“

It feels good [to hopefully from the Bay drafted]. I get drafted, but it feels good that there is a good possibility of that happening.

”

-NC State running back Matthew Dayes

University of Miami offensive lineman Danny Isidora

“It is very satisfying to see any of your North Carolina State running back Matthew Dayes

training alongside Dayes and Marley and

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blAkE fOEmAN Class of 2009 alumnus Blake Foeman played basketball at the Bay and has furthered his career in sports, as he now works on College Gameday Football and Basketball as the Content Associate on ESPN. Foeman creates new story ideas, searches for locations for the show to be broadcasted. According to Foeman, his most rewarding experience was when he and he was apart of that team.

“Although I did not do anything production related in high school, having Coach Looky being a mentor and a coach had such a positive impact on my life. He made me mentally tougher, and I need that mentality with the type of work I do.”

dAumANTus vENkus Class of 2012 alumnus and defensive end Daumantas Venkus played football at the Bay and went on to play collegiately at the University of Iowa.

After earning a B.S. in Human physiology, he earned his MBA with concentration in management at University of Akron in 2016. While at Akron, he received the Academic Heisman award for a combination of academperformance.

“It felt good to receive it, but I work hard for the sake of hard work and not for a certain award. The award was just the cherry on top.”

WHERE ARE THEY NOW?

FEBRUARY 2017

cAsEY NAYmAN Class of 2007 alumnus and former Lightning basketball forward Casey Nayman started his DJ career, as KcChopz, during high school, as he interned at Power 96 throughout his senior year. He worked there for eight years, and he said was able to use his diverse high school experiences to be successful in the South Florida market.

Now, Nayman is a freelance DJ and is building upon his Power 96 career.

“It was amazing, and it was kind of like my college in a sense: I learned how to DJ from there, and it polished up everything I did as a hobby in high school. I was into music; I would make music and pass out mixtapes, so when I got to radio, I had that foundation already and I just able to build on top of that. I was able to show my personality and DJ skills off, it helped me culture myself and I learned entertainment business.”

sTEvE TEllEfsEN Class of 2010 alumnus and former Lightning football defensive back Steve Tellefsen has continued his football career since graduating from the Bay, playing at three different schools before graduating from the University of South Dakota in 2015.

Following his collegiate career, Tellefsen spent time with the Minnesota Vikings training camp as an undrafted free agent in 2015, played for the Toronto Argonauts of the Canadian Football League (CFL) in 2016 and is now on a tender with the Saskatchewan Roughriders of the CFL. “It is a blessing and a privilege to make it to the next level, but I always expected that of myself. I have learned to always work hard, be respectful and be humble but never lose that chip on your shoulder and never let anyone tell you what you can and cannot do.”

The Circuit’s staff checks in with former athletes from the Bay.

JilliAN bAAcH EmmA liNcOlN JEREmY TAcHE Class of 2013 alumnus and former Lightning baseball player Jeremy Tache is currently pursuing his passion for sports through a different outlet, journalism, at the University of Central Florida.

During high school, he was awarded the Sun-Sentinel award for best Sports Section and best Sports Columnist. Tache also participated in musical theatre and said he has enjoyed singing and song writing since he was 14 years old. Although he said combining singing and song writing with his baseball career in high school was uncommon and further develop his interests in sports and journalism.

“Playing a sport and writing for a high school newspaper both take a strong work ethic and determination to succeed, and I think those experiences have helped me get to where I am right now. I’ve been able to focus on my passions, sports and storytelling, and that’s allowed me to be successful.”

Class of 2012 alumna and former swim team member Emma Lincoln broke the 100 and 200 freestyles records for the team at the Bay. Lincoln has now gone on to break more records on Tulane University’s swim team, as well as double major in Finance and Legal Studies in Business with an Energy Specialization and a minor in Mathematics.

In addition to holding the 200 individual freestyle record at Tulane, she also has the 800 freestyle, 400 freestyle, 200 freestyle and 400 medley relay records.

“After swimming competitively for 13 years, I think my biggest accomplishment is getting up every morning and giving all of my energy to one of the most grueling sports. Being able to overcome failures and downfalls and still stick with the sport and improve has been a challenge, but it is also what I am most proud of and what has allowed me to rise above.

Class of 2010 alumna and former girl’s basketball player Jillian Baach earned her undergraduate degree in journalism at the University of Florida (UF). After graduation, Baach joined George Washington University’s Women’s Basketball staff as the assistant director of basketball operations, and she was eventually promoted to Director of Basketball Operations. This position put her in charge of every operational aspect of the program: travel planning, meal planning and overseeing the student-athletes day-to-day schedule. She has been a part of the Colonials women’s basketball staff for two Atlantic 10 conference championships and two NCAA tournament appearances.

“When I attended [The] Bay, it was the largest school in the country. This meant I could interact with hundreds of people a day. The people skills I learned and practiced at [The] Bay is something I use everyday in my current position at GW. I have to interact with people of all ages for my job as Director of Basketball operations, and [The] Bay’s large population and opportunities unknowingly prepared me for this position.”

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Athletes commit to play collegiately Twenty-two athletes signed letters of intent to advance their careers on National Signing Day.

BY ALEXIS SOBEL MANAGING EDITOR

Carson-Newman University volleyball commit Aryana Fazelnia said National Signing Day allowed all of her childhood dreams to come true.

“It felt amazing,” Fazelnia said. “I have been waiting for this day for so long, Fazelnia was not the only one to have her dreams come true on this day. On Tuesday, Feb. 1, 22 of the Bay’s athletes reached a career milestone when they Athletic Director Scott Selvidge said he year’s signing day.

“

Twenty-two of the Bay’s students are moving on to better things in their future and are going to get to continue their athletic pursuits. I am happy and excited for them, and I hope their futures are as bright as they have been here.

PHOTOS BY ALEXIS SOBEL

JUST COMMITTED: (Left) senior Greyson Fletcher celebrates with his father on National Signing Day. He will be continuing his baseball career at Florida International University. (Right) Georgia State University soccer commit Natalia Martinez kicks off her athletic career with her family.

“I was very thankful because if it have been here.” academically and athletically.

“I think we have a great academic off.”

“

community involvement, so I think that lacrosse commit, Carolina Arguelles, lends itself to the success we’ve had,” he said. “But, obviously [the students] are the better, because she was able to sign with her classmates.

“Twenty-two of the Bay’s students of their athletic skill set, their mind set “It felt so amazing to sign with are moving on to better things in their and the ambition they have.” future and are going to get to continue and the same goal as me,” she sa id. “I have been back and forth about signing a few times, but I knew I could not give tunity. Signing day gave me the validation that I did it and all my work - vi-

-athletic director Scott Selvidge

wanted until early January.

College in October, but it was in Boston, and that was too far for my family,” she

have dreamed about since I was young, me to strive for my goals and for one day he did.”

For Fazelnia, however, a her success was her coaches. better. tournaments, they would motivate me to do my ultimate best,” she said. “They made me want to be the best I could be.”

According to

“I advise [young athletes] to always do what they want to do rather than what others want them to do,” he said. “They will face tough times, but as long as they things will work out at the end.”

its location in Asheville, it was a much PHOTO SUBMITTED BY YAZMIN JIMENEZ

grinding.”

THE BIG KAHUNA: Principal Charles Scott Neely opens National Signing Day with a speech congratulating all athletes, families and friends.

and to his brother who has been his role

Visit cbhscircuit. com for more information about National Signing Day.

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FEBRUARY 2017

Cardinals runnning back deserved

Super Bowl LI should be considered greatest football game of all time

The 2017 ‘NFL Honors’ awards were announced on Feb. 4, and Atlanta Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan owned the night, being awarded with both the Most Valuable Player (MVP) and the Offensive Player of the Year (OPOY).

Although he was deserving of the MVP, Ryan was far from the best offensive player in the league.

It may seem contradictory to say that an offensive player could be worthy of the MVP – the most coveted award – and not worthy of the OPOY, but the two awards entail for completely different attributes.

The MVP is awarded to exactly what it is called: the most valuable player in the league, who contributes most to his team’s success.

The New England Patriots became 2017 Super Bowl champions, after defeating the Atlanta Falcons 34-28 in what was the most legendary Super Bowl in National Football League (NFL) history.

The New England Patriots came into the game as 3-point favorites; however, after a second touchdown pass from NFL MVP Matt Ryan, the Falcons went up 28-3 in the third quarter. Fans around the world believed that the game was far out of the Patriots reach, as the largest comeback in Super Bowl history stood at 10 points. The Falcons had a 99.5 percent win probability at that point, but what happened subsequently was anything but probable. The Brady-led patriots proved most of America wrong, while scoring 25 straight points, and tying the game 28-28 with 0:57 left in regulation.

The legendary comeback included two 2-point conversions, a fumble recovery, an incredible catch by wide receiver Julian Edelman, and four straight stops by the Patriots defense. The Patriots’ defense stood its ground for the last 57

Bottom Line: Arizona Cardinals running back David Johnson’s historic season deserves recognition.

Because of the nature of football, the MVP is almost always a quarterback, as it has been nine of the last 10 years.

Quarterbacks simply have a larger burden on their shoulders and thus a greater opportunity to contribute to their teams.

But the OPOY should be awarded to the offensive player who performed best over the course of the season, regardless of team success. Thus, there is equal opportunity for players of all positions to win.

With that and Arizona Cardinals running back David Johnson’s historically dominant season considered, Matt Ryan did not deserve the OPOY. Despite playing for a mediocre team with minimal support on offense, Johnson played phenomenally week in

in league history to start a season with 100 yards from scrimmage in each of would have kept that streak going if not for an injury in his 16th game.

Johnson totaled both the most scrimmage yards and touchdowns by a skill position player during the season, with 2,118 yards (124 more than the next player) and 20 touchdowns (two more than the next player), respectively.

Part of what is so incredible about Johnson’s season is the team he did it on; the 7-8-1 Cardinals were a mediocre team with a poor offensive line (ranked 26th by Pro Football Focus) and limited away from Johnson.

Defenses facing the Cardinals were able to key in on Johnson play in and play out, but his combination of hardnose power, elite quickness and agility and improved ball carrier vision was simply unstoppable.

Bringing Johnson down was one of the hardest tasks defenses faced in the league this year, as he was able to elude and power through defenders with seeming ease.

The second-year 225-pound running back has a skillset and a level of versatility that the NFL has seen few times before; the only other player in NFL history with 20 plus rushing TDs,

ever overtime in Super Bowl history.

Heading into overtime, NRG stadium was split between shell-shocked Falcon

FACE OFF YES Many sports teams around the world have players and coaching staffs that display a sense of dominance in their respective sports. In college sports, teams are constantly building dynasties, and this should continue to happen. If a college team keeps winning, they will get a better recruiting class. However, in professional sports, especially the National Football League (NFL), the leagues aren’t structured to form dynasties; teams are supposed to be able to compete.

The Patriots accomplished something in a system that was

question that it was best of all time. The unfolding drama of NFL Commissioner Rodger Goodell’s inevitable meeting with the Super Bowl MVP; Brady became an intriguing matchup all by itself. The two nemeses were rivals in the infamous games of the 2016 season. In addition the game was also the tension of America’s current political situation.

Multiple commercials expressed views on current political issues, including a pro immigration ad from Budweiser and a Women’s equality campaign from Audi. Not only were the commercials a performance also relayed a moving political message to the audience. Gaga began her performance by singing “God toward President Trump’s travel ban.

run by running back James White, to

Bottom Line: Super Bowl LI’s numerous milestones and miraculous plays should not go unnoticed.

Super Bowl championship.

With this victory, Brady and New England’s Head Coach Bill Belichick

The legendary status Super Bowl LI had above every other Super Bowl, included the number of milestones and

Super Bowl title, marking the most ever received by a quarterback and

the largest comeback ever completed.

England continued where it left off in regulation, won the coin toss and elected Brady led the ensuing Patriot drive 75 yards in eight plays, with the eighth and

Fame running back Gale Sayers.

Although it is a shame the OPOY voters could not fully recognize his greatness, Johnson will likely be getting plenty of awards in the coming years, and his career is something all NFL fans can look forward to witnessing unfold.

head coach in NFL history. Brady also broke the record for passing yards in a Super Bowl (466 yards) and the most MVP recognitions by any single player (four). By looking at what Super Bowl

Are the New England Patriots the best dynasty ever?

NO

Belichick and quarterback Tom Brady, they have beat the system; this should not go unnoticed. In reality, they are the

There are many franchises that can be considered the best dynasty ever. When you think of the greatest dynasties of all-time, the Los Angeles Lakers or the Boston Celtics may come to mind. Hockey fans could say that the Montreal Canadiens are the best dynasty ever, but the one league that is not made to house a dynasty team is the National Football League (NFL). The New England Patriots have broken that barrier by winning another Super Bowl this year, but they are not the best ever. They are a dynasty, for sure, but to say they are the best sports has ever seen is a stretch. Two Super Bowl wins over the past three years is impressive, but it has been done before. The San Francisco Giants won three

rings. In the NFL, the best teams draft last. The Patriots have

we have ever seen either. The duo of Tom Brady and Bill

two top 10 picks. Although Tom Brady was a sixth round pick, he took the league by storm and has led one of the best runs in all of professional sports. Since Brady and Belichick started their reign, the Patriots have won 14 American Football Conference (AFC) East titles (eight consecutive), seven not only good because they win football games, they are so elitist and have a winning mindset every time they step onto

of in the NFL, but the Patriots are not the best dynasty ever.

The Patriots have become a premiere franchise that is used to winning, but the best dynasty ever is reserved for the likes of the ‘96-2000 New York Yankees and the ‘91-’98 Chicago Bulls for now at least. If the Patriots continue their winning ways, they will become the best dynasty ever, but for now, they are a dynasty knocking on the door to becoming the best we have ever seen.

-Jeremy Jackson

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Boys soccer headed back to states

BY JEREMY JACKSON SPORTS COPY EDITOR

With a 2-1 come from behind win over Miami Beach High, the Bay’s boys soccer team continued to build upon its dynasty after qualifying for states once again for years.

The team played with heavy hearts throughout the entire season after losing their teammate Max Cardenas in a tragic accident. The Lightning players decided to dedicate this season to his memory, and minutes after advancing to states, they were chanting his name while celebrating.

The Lightning (21-1-2) were down 1-0 matchup before storming back to win by a score of 2-1, with the game winner coming with two minutes left off the head of Elias Bruzual.

“There is no quit in us, we never give up and we were not going to give up for Max either,” Bruzual said. “We pray for him before every game and ask him to help us out. We want to go all the way for him.”

According to Bruzal, the winning season has been dedicated to Cardenas. The players have used the hashtag “All for 12” all season long; 12 was Cardenas’s playing number.

After the accident, team captain and

STATE-BOUND AGAIN:

senior William Fierro changed his jersey number to Cardenas’s and has been wearing it all season long.

“I wanted to wear his number all season and dedicate this season to him,” Fierro said. “We huddled up after we fell behind, and said Max was with us and that we were doing this for him and honestly when I was out there, I felt like he was with us. I wanted to honor his memo-

ry. Losing a teammate is really intense for the whole team, but I think in a positive way it brought us all together and has us where we are now.”

The Lightning now head to states with Max still in their hearts and with one goal

season to him,” Coach Colin Ilgner said.

“His legacy is very important to us, and he has been with us every step of the way.

Now, we head into state competition, and even though we have some injuries, we are going to try our best to win it all.”

The Lightning won their state semi-

“Max was a good kid, and the team was not sure how to deal with the whole Lakewood for the state title on Feb. 18 in thing, so they went out and dedicated the Deland, Florida.

Girls soccer falls short ferent for this game. She thinks the team could have played harder once they had The girls varsity soccer team (17-3) been scored on. ended its season with a 1-0 playoff loss against Miami Lourdes High School.

“We gave it our all playing against I was on the team last them, and that’s all that matters,” sophomore Daniela Tobon said. “We’ll be ready year, and we lost this for next year.” exact game. I told myself Coach Kate Dwyer said her team that I had a chance to played well overall this season. As the season was coming to an end, Coach redeem myself. Now Dwyer had many players that were in- that we lost this game, I jured that couldn’t help the team with recan’t tell myself the same gionals.

- thing. ple games we had a couple beat-up players,” she said. “Out of the 22 players that are rostered, only 18 were able to play -senior Angelica Mazzoca against one of the best teams in the state.”

“Once that goal went in our positive As a senior, this was Angelica Mazz- mindset went downhill from there,” Maroca’s last game. She was very upset to not ianna Mazzoca said. “At that point, we advance to the state tournament. have to keep our heads up high and dig “I was on the team last year, and we in, so that we could score and get more lost this exact game,” Mazzoca said. “ I opportunities.” told myself that I had a chance to redeem Senior Anette Hernandez thought her myself. Now that we lost this game, I team gave it their all in this game. Hercan’t tell myself the same thing.” nandez will miss playing soccer in high Sophomore Mazzoca thought the school and the memories she made. mindset of the team should have been dif“It’s sad that I lost my last game as a

BY HANNA SCHRAGER

“

”

senior,” Hernandez said. “ I’m going to miss playing for Cypress and my teammates.”

Tobon also said that there were minor mistakes made in this game. She thought her team gave up the ball too quickly to the other team.

“We would work so hard to win the ball from the other team,” Tobon said.

“But we would just give the ball right back.”

Mazzocca said that getting this far into the season was a great experience for her and the team. She thinks that her

team did well overall this season up until this point.

“I think getting to this point for both teams is amazing,” she said.

Following the game , Coach Dwyer said things can be adjusted to help the team advance to the states championship for next year.

“We will be losing a big senior class this year,” Coach Dwyer said. “We just have to prepare and move forward for next year.”

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SPORTS

FEBRUARY 2017

Anderson Jr. continues family legacy

BY JENNA RABINOVITCH ONLINE MANAGING EDITOR

When he was just 3-years-old, sophomore Kenny Anderson Jr. decided to follow in his father, Kenny Anderson’s, professional basketball game in Boston.

Anderson played in the National Basketball Association (NBA) for 14 years. Starting on the New Jersey Nets in 1991 when he was just 21-years-old, Anderson also played for the Hornets, Portland Trail Blazers, Boston Celtics, Seattle Supersonics, Indiana Pacers, Atlanta Hawks and the Los Angeles Clippers.

“When I was 6-years-old, my older sister used to babysit me and take me to the basketball courts near my house to watch people play,” Anderson said.

“That is where I really fell in love with the game.”

Anderson Jr. is currently playing on the varsity basketball team at the Bay. He started his basketball career when started to take the sport seriously in seventh grade, when he joined his middle school’s basketball team.

“Basketball has impacted my life since the second I started playing it,” Anderson Jr. said. “It helps me stay focused and really concentrate on everything I am doing, inside and outside of the game.”

Anderson said he sees a lot of himself in his son, but Anderson Jr. contains a lot of different, unique skills he acquired on his own.

“I think by me being a 14 year professional in the NBA, Kenny was “Knowing his own father played in the NBA has probably added some pressure to Kenny. The way he moves and the way he dribbles are exactly how I do, and although there is a lot of me in his game, he still needs the heart and dog I had in tell that as he gets older he will grow into a pretty good basketball player.”

Hoping to play Division 1 basketball in college, Anderson Jr. is aiming to play at Arizona State University. His coach, Jason Looky, said Anderson Jr. has great potential, and it is likely that he will follow in his father’s footsteps to be successful in the sport.

“Kenny has a variety of promising skills,” he said. “He is an excellent ball handler, he is a great rebounder and he is an above average shooter.”

Anderson Jr. said his father has taught him everything he knows today about basketball, and he attributes his skills partly to him.

“He taught me dribbling, shooting, keeping my head in the game and how to stay focused,” Anderson Jr. said.

Aside from his dad’s involvement in the sport, Anderson Jr. said basketball has become an increasingly bigger part of his own life over time.

“Having fun is probably the most rewarding part of playing basketball,” he said. “I love playing with my teammates and just being together after we win a game; everyone’s reaction makes the hard work worth it.”

Sophomore Tyler Krivitzkin has been Anderson Jr.’s teammate at the Bay for two years. He said Anderson Jr. has a lot of traits that are similar to his dad.

“I love playing with Kenny,” Krivitzkin said. “I really feel like we have a strong connection on the court. Kenny game and gives a great offensive threat to the other team.”

Coach Looky said having a professional basketball player for a dad gives Anderson Jr. a unique and rare advantage in the game.

“Being able to watch his dad when he was younger and be around the game so much opened up a door for Kenny,” he said. “I think they both have such great court vision when they are in the game.

Although he is just a sophomore, Kenny has a goal for himself, and I am very excited to see what happens.”

PHOTOS BY JENNA RABINOVITCH

LIKE FATHER LIKE SON: (Top) (from left) Former NBA player Kenny Anderson and his son Kenny Anderson Jr. share a passion for playing basketball.

Anderson played in the NBA for 14 years starting in 1991. He played for the New Jersey Nets, Hornets, Portland Trail Blazers, Boston Celtics, Seattle Supersonics, Indiana Pacers, Atlanta Hawks and the Los Angeles Clippers.

Anderson Jr. now plays varsity basketball as a sophomore, and he hopes (Bottom) Anderson Jr. makes a layup in the district championship game on Feb. the score of 52-44.

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ATHLETES TO WATCH JUANDI FERNANDEZ What is your biggest achievement while playing soccer?

I was able to play in an international tournament in the age that are in professional academies like Fluminese FC in What are your pregame rituals?

I plug in some earphones and try to focus as much as

What made you decide to start playing soccer?

MAYA GORDON What are some of your pregame rituals? a handshake with my best friend on the soccer team, which is a little tradition that we have been participating in since Do you plan on pursuing a soccer career after high school?

Yes, I am actually committed to play Division 1 soccer How has playing soccer impacted your everyday life?

I have less time than most teenagers to do normal

My parents say that even as a baby, I was playing playing the game was just liking the sport when I Do you have plans to play soccer after high school?

After high school, my plan would be to play soccer for a good college and maybe even play in a higher level after What is the best advice you have been given?

I have had many great coaches who have all taught me

What motivates you to keep playing?

[I have been motivated by] my teammates, my parents,

Do you have to alter your diet in any way?

Obviously I try not to pig out before games, and I am usually a pretty healthy eater anyways, so there is

What is your main source of motivation?

My motivation while playing soccer is the glory and -Sophie Schifter Class of 2020 Height: 6’1’’

TO WIN STATES GOAL: GOAL: STAY UNDEFEATED HEIGHT: 5’7” HEIGHT: 6’2 TEAM: BLOCKER BOYS SOCCER POSITION: MIDDLE OF 2019 TEAM: VARSITYCLASS VOLLEYBALL CLASS OF 2018

-Nyah Hardmon

GOAL: PLAY PRO HEIGHT: 5’6” TEAM: GIRLS SOCCER CLASS OF 2019

WINTER SEASON STATISTICS Boys Varsity Basketball South Plantation

W 50-49

Western

L 51-52

Flanagan

W 61-56

Stoneman Douglas

W 61-56

Nova

L 60-61

Western

W 52-44

Piper

W 39-36

Girls Varsity Basketball

Boys Varsity Soccer

West Boca Raton

L 38-51

Piper

W 6-0

Piper

W 56-46

West Broward

L 1-2

Cardinal Gibbons

L 47-50

Western

W 5-1

South Plantation

W 77-41

Taravella

W 1-0

Western

W 70-31

Archbishop MacCarthy

W 4-0

Piper

L 49-57

Pines Charter

W 3-2

South Plantation

W 1-0

West Broward

W 3-0

Everglades

W 2-1

Boys JV Basketball Piper

W 38-31

Cardinal Gibbons

W 38-35

South Plantation

W 53-50

Western

L 41-46

Stoneman Douglas

W 44-42

Nova

L 31-56

*All information as of Feb. 13

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OSCAR P R E D IC T IO N S

The Circuit’s Arts & Ent. Editor Rachel Schonberger sums up her Academy Awards predictions for 6 of the 24 categories.

gives a beautifully nuanced performance in “Manchester by the Sea.” While Denzel Washington’s performance is on a similar level of genius, having already been nominated for a Tony Award for the revival of the play, the award looks

After winning the Golden Globe and the SAG Award for her performance in “La La Land,” Emma Stone is the shoein for the Oscars. Her portrayal of Mia, a struggling actress with a relationship-turned-awry, follows a range of emotions, not to mention her impressive dancing skills.

THE CIRCUIT

Films exploit animal A dog’s purpose is very similar to that of a movie: to spread joy, connection with the world around us, and a variety of emotions. Movies provide outlets for the spreading of important messages; this past season, many movies became movements, whether they stood for civil rights or humane treatment of animals.

The latter was the underlying message of “A Dog’s Purpose.” The star-studded children’s movie was originally meant to shed a light on the role of dogs in society. One would think that all those who contributed to the making of such humanity and fairness.

However, a behind the scenes video exposed the cruel treatment of the one of the movie’s animal actors. The video, published by TMZ, showed a German Shepherd being forced by a stagehand into a simulation of turbulent water. Although the crew knew that the machine was safe for animals, the fear that controls the dog in the video prevents any prevalence of kindness in the making of the movie. The media took this story and distributed it to nearly every entertainment news source.

Twitter activists took to their platforms and spread the word. People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) boycotted ticket sales. Those who stand for animal rights stood.

Yet, the blockbuster still made $18.4 not too far from 2013’s “A Dolphin’s Tale” and almost twice 2015’s “Max,” both of which focused around animals and treated them respectfully on set.

However, these movies are unique. As new as the protests surrounding “A Dog’s

hits have seen the faces of boycotters.

“Evan Almighty,” which depicted a revival of the biblical Noah’s Arc, cast This Oscars season is full of a variety of animals, from monkeys to zebras, many of which were treated inhumanely. PETA spokesperson Bob “La La Land.” The cinematographic Chorush responded to the injustice, masterpiece brings the concept of the movie musical back to critical acclaim production cost, the damage done to the and features impressive performances hundreds of exotic animals used in the by triple threats Ryan Gosling and Emma Stone. taken advantage of their animal actors, worrying less about their health and

Damien Chazelle is the frontrunner for this category for his amazing work with all aspects of “La La Land.” His exquisite direction of the balance cinematographic aspects is what has made it such a hit with the academy and audiences.

comply with the American Humane Association’s treatment standards, the best chance for a decrease in PETA of computer-generated imaging (CGI) to replace animal actors. As technology less animals will need to be used, and, causally, harmed.

Until movies make a greater turnover to CGI animals, movie makers are going to have to continue risking animals’ Mahershala Ali has made a name for himself in the past season, with supporting roles in both “Moonlight” and “Hidden Figures.” In “Moonlight,” he portrays a multifaceted drug

There is no denying that Viola Davis is an emotional powerhouse in play-turnedmovie “Fences,” for which she scored a Tony nomination in 2010 for the revival of the play. Davis depicts the highs for Chiron, a boy who is growing up in and lows of her character’s troublesome life with truth and grace.

Purpose” was supposed to be about the virtues of man’s best friend, but with the recent animal abuse scandal, a movie in appreciation of dogs became a movie that victimizes dogs. While some movies may seem to hold true to the saying “No animals were harmed during the making have thrived despite the backstage animal mistreatment is more than meets the eye.

FEBRUARY 2017

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

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FASHION FORWARD PASSION FOR FASHION:

(Counterclockwise from top) senior Megan Vitko and her friends visit her future college, Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising, in California, where she intends to study fashion trend

Senior Megan Vitko looks to fashion as an outlet for expressing herself and also a way of life.

“Fashion being a major part of my in myself,” she said. “I express myself

produced Beau Monde Fashion

everyday, regardless of how unusual they may seem.

Growing up, Vitko always had an interest in different aspects of the fashion world because of her family’s similar

for one of the spirit week dress up days. Alumna Annie Leiman (left) inspires her sister, (right) sophomore Becca Leiman, to

“My grandma and mom would make

The two of them show off their boldly unique senses of style at the Santa Monica Pier in California.

always loved to watch,” she said. “Now, the better. It is nice to have had such an interest in fashion and discover all of the different careers I could have in relation to it.”

Vitko has used her passion for fashion to start and serve as president of the Beau Monde Fashion Club at Christ Covenant Church.

“The goal of my club is to bring people who have an interest in fashion together,” she said. “Because there is no fashion-related club at Cypress currently, I still wanted to give those students an opportunity to be a part of something they love.”

Like Vitko, junior and co-president of the club, Isabelle Miller, has a similar love for fashion.

“Fashion is just a way how you can display your individuality and personality.

Everyone is different and I love how fashion lets you show that visually,” Miller said. “To express myself, I am always dressing depending on how I feel.

My mood changes a lot so I am always love getting to experiment.”

As co-presidents, Vitko and Miller plan all of the activities and run meetings every other Thursday. One of the activities the club is working on is a lookbook with the theme of different decades. The club plans on selling it at National Art Honor Society’s Art Festival on Feb. 24.

“I absolutely love the club and the magazine looks amazing so far,” Miller said. “Being president of a club can be stressful at times but Megan and I have a lot of fun planning activities for our members.”

Sophomore Becca Leiman said her interest in fashion came from her sister.

“My sister is the whole reason I aspire

PHOTO SUBMITTED BY MEGAN VITKO

PHOTO SUBMITTED BY MEGAN VITKO

Miller said she hopes to continue her love for fashion by working for a magazine in the near future.

“Fashion is fun because it is always “I am not sure if I would want to surprising people,” she said. “I like to style or write for a magazine, but [I] wow people by just purchasing things that are ‘me’.” community of people who have the same interests as me,” Miller said. fashion everywhere and in everything.

Vitko plans on following a path in This includes television, movies and her fashion after graduating high school.

She plans on attending Fashion Institute my style,” she said. “When I look good, of Design and Merchandising (FIDM) it affects my whole day. If I put together prevalent in her style. in Los Angeles in the fall to receive an positive and it overall alters my vibe for anything,” she said. “I am obsessed with Associate of Arts degree in Fashion Merchandising and Marketing and a the better.”

A&E calendar

Albums

Although Leiman does not have a

Movies

PHOTO SUBMITTED BY BECCA LEIMAN

bachelor’s degree in social media. Vitko is currently looking into fashion trend forecasting, which takes politics, the economy and current trends into account to determine upcoming trends. “[FIDM] is an amazing school overall and I feel it will provide me with all of the resources I need to give me a successful career in the fashion industry,” she said. “I would want really any job in the fashion industry as long as I enjoy waking up and going to work I will be happy.”

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ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

FEBRUARY 2017

Film puts “Hidden Figures” in spotlight “Hidden Figures”

BY SHANTY FIERRO OPINION COPY EDITOR

“Hidden Figures” is an inspirational

The circuiT recommends “Stupid Girl”

“Idioteque”

Garbage Grunge

Radiohead Post-rock

A gem of the ‘90s Grunge age, this angsty song is dominated by reverberated strings and harsh lyricism, which are backed by Shirley Manson’s strong vocals. The song’s greatness lies in the simplicity of the vocals, which mostly involve moaning and humming.

Radiohead’s plunge into experimental rock following success with traditional instruments proved worthwhile, as drum-driven songs such as “Idioteque” will forever be considered futuristic and cuttingedge.

An ongoing feature that includes lesser known songs by popular artists and songs from up and coming artists. This month’s playlist was compiled by Ryder Kaplan.

“Perry Mason” Ozzy Osbourne Heavy Metal

“These Arms of Mine”

“Mountains”

A stellar standout from his lengthy and diverse discography, “Perry Mason” is a twisted, hectic look into the gothic mind of rock legend Ozzy Osbourne. Ozzy’s masterful use of vocals combined with an explosive guitar solo cement this song as a classic.

Otis Redding

Hans Zimmer Soundtrack

“Voodoo”

Classic Soul Motown poster-child Otis Redding’s status as one of the greatest soul vocalists ever is more than evident in track that embodies everything great about this golden age of soul music.

Hans Zimmer’s monumental legacy as a composer is strengthened by the soundtrack to the 2014 movie “Interstellar.” Tracks as epic and suspenseful as “Mountains” elevate the score to another level of cinematic beauty.

Godsmack Hard Rock Voodoo is a fantastic introduction to the rough sounds of Godsmack’s music. An intense buildup of strings and drums introduce this hazy tune, dense with memorable lyrics and hard-hitting percussion.

FEBRUARY 2017

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

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Music festival continues despite rain

to help viewers pass the time between acts. Eating options included various stands, trucks and shacks that offered everything from quesadillas to sweet tea and deep fried carnival-style food.

Also, merchandise available for purchase

included Guy Harvey and Chili Cook off inspired garb country music lovers had the chance to buy.

Florida Georgia Line put on the best show, as they sang songs from their “Dig Your Roots” album including some of the most popular like H.O.L.Y., God Your Mama and Me and Dig Your Roots.

Interactions with the crowd, a positive outlook and willingness to perform in the bad weather showed the band’s commitment making their debut one to remember. Additionally, Granger Smith played songs from his Remington album, which was a crowd favorite. Popular songs from this album include If the Boot Fits, Backroad Song and Remington.

Currently very popular, these songs hyped up the crowd allowing for an entertaining and energetic environment.

Also, Granger Smith remained very in touch with fans in the crowd throughout the duration of his performance. At one point, Granger Smith took Cypress Bay student Fallon Currey’s cell phone and took a video from his perspective on stage which displayed his willingness to give back to his loyal fans who were there for him in the bad weather.

Contrary to what many may think, chili is not actually available for eating unless one enrolls in the Chili Cook off competition aspect of the day. With this, competitors had to craft a chili in hopes of impressing the designated judges and winning the competition. If one is not taking part in the actual competition, chili is not readily available for anyone who wishes to taste it during the day.

Overall, Chili Cook off was a great atmosphere for viewing popular country music stars. Although the weather was a bit unfortunate, celebrity stars, fun food opportunities and other activities made Chili Cook off a fantastic experience.

players can choose to play as, each having his or her own special ability. For the steep price, the app does not offer a large enough incentive. The game also needs a constant connection to Wi-Fi to function,

The game itself would be enjoyable if the full version were more available to users, but the limited version does not offer enough to keep users compelled for long.

BY LUCY CELENTANO ARTS & ENT. PHOTO EDITOR

The 32nd annual 99.9 Kiss Country Chili Cook off was held Sunday Jan. 29.

The star-studded line up drew fans of all ages and backgrounds making the music festival one for the ages. Performers included Granger Smith, Lee Brice, Joe Nichols, Chris Layne and Florida Georgia Line. Although the cold and rainy conditions put a damper on the day, the outstanding show put on by each and every performer compensated for the unfortunate weather.

The show started early in the morning when the gates opened around 9 a.m. At this time, some viewers entered CB Smith park to set up chairs and blankets from where they would enjoy the show in hours to come. At the Chili Cook off the regular ticket is sold for one price, which gives customers general admission entrance to the park. There are no assigned seats so those who wish to have a place to enjoy the show are responsible for bringing a chair or blanket to sit on. With this said, due to the fact that the Chili Cook off was held on a rainy, cold day. The closer to the stage viewers chose to venture, the more crowded and hectic the surroundings became. For a more spacious, relaxed setup, sitting further away from the stage

PHOTO BY LUCY CELENTANO

CHILLY COOKOFF: Country artist Joe Nichols performs popular tracks including “Sunny and 75” and “The Impossible” for the crowd at the 99.9 Kiss Country Chili Cookoff. This event occured on Jan. 29 at C.B. Smith Park in Pembroke Pines.

viewers to enjoy between acts, as the intermissions were a bit lengthy. Because stage spot in the pit. each performer played 60 minutes apart Other than the country music icons, from one another, the food and game type Chili Cook off offered additional stations set up by vendors and sponsors entertaining activities and stations for were the perfect addition to the show

Condensed Super Mario app limits fun experience lows users to play through different terrains as they dodge adversaries to collect

Super Mario Run

BY MIRANDA MILAN

Super Mario Run is a fast-paced, more condensed version of the original Nintendo Wii game, which doesn’t allow players to fully experience the Super Mario world.

Released on Dec. 15, 2016, it is the fastest growing app in iOS history with more than 40 million downloads in four days. The app allows users to play through three different modes. The core game al-

Rally allows players to compete against computerized opponents to attract toads to add to the Mushroom Kingdom. The which makes the game less stimulating.

The kingdom allows players to customize the kingdom by buying identical houses and landscapes that don’t offer diversity or engagement.

Although users can replay levels, the free app only offers three of the levels and 20 seconds of the boss battle. To unlock all the worlds, a pricey fee of $9.99 is necessary. The full version also includes different popular Super Mario characters

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ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

FEBRUARY 2017

Hollywood mourns legendary actresses “She was very open about her mental illness and helped change the perception Not even a day apart the world lost ac- of mental illness being taboo, considertresses Carrie Fisher and Debbie Reyn- ing that it is very prevalent in our sociolds, both celebrated for their uniqueness and strides in the acting community. The Debbie Reynolds passed away the day formerly estranged mother-daughter duo after her daughter at the age of 84, as a was loved by devoted fans that saw the result of a stroke. Reynolds began her catwo as icons. Psychology teacher, Lynda reer with “Singin’ in the Rain” and later Lorie, was one of those fans that support- starred in movies such as “The Unsinked the famous pair.

“They were able to come together and Sophomore Hannah Suhood said that became extremely close and I think it Reynolds’ career is what drove Fisher to shows that when you’re older things be- become the icon she is today. come clear and you gain a different per“I think dealing with her mother’s spective,” Lorie said. “You realize those shadow is what made her want to become relationships and bonds you have are spe- an even better actress and make her work cial and need to be cherished.” to the best of her ability,” Suhood said.

Carrie Fisher, who was known for her The role of Princess Leia launched role as Princess Leia in the Star Wars se- Fisher’s acting career to new heights, alries, died after going into cardiac arrest lowing her to break out of the shadows at the age of 60. She previously suffered and create a name for herself. Sophomore from bipolar disorder and was one of the lieves she was unique and different than Lorie said Fisher’s acceptance and open- other actors. ness about the disorder made her revo“I think Carrie Fisher was special in lutionary in the bipolar community, an the acting community because she was inspiration to many who suffer from the the only female lead in the iconic Star disorder.

Wars series at the time,” Chin said. “She

BY CASEY MENTEN

IN MEMORY OF: Carrie Fisher (right) and her mother Debbie Reynolds were able to patch up their rocky relationship before their untimely deaths.

has established herself as an iconic heroine who is a talented actress and an excellent role model.”

Chin said Fisher inspired him to take charge of more situations and never allow anyone to silence him when he stands up for what he believes in.

“Carrie Fisher has inspired me and countless others to use my success to make the world a better place,” Chin said.

“She used her good to promote causes

tribute to the two actresses in a joint memorial held in Los Angeles for Fisher and Reynolds. Chin said the bond between Fisher and Reynolds has emphasized the importance of bonds between family and friends.

“It reminds me to cherish every moment I have with my family and friends,” Chin said. “Life is unpredictable so you must seize the moment and live in the now.”

NAHS fundraises with yearly festival “I think that the art festival will promote our interest and involvement

BY RACHEL SILVERMAN

Society (NAHS) are working on fundraising and preparing their own creations to sell

making it happen.”

The art festival will give students a chance to sell their artwork to the public, but there will also be food and entertainment.

“We will have live music from student bands, so that should make the atmosphere more fun,” Rothbard said.

“NAHS will also have its own booths with fun activities.”

In addition to student booths, NAHS will have a few of its own booths at the art festival as another form of promoting the club and raising money.

“Our honor society is having some of its own booths, like a tie-dye tee shirt booth, a henna booth and our own wares

“Students will have the chance to sell things they make, from artwork to shirts or even poems,” vice president and junior Hannah Rothbard said.

Rothbard expects the art festival to be unlike most events that the NAHS hosts because it is not an event that impacts the club’s funds. Instead, the money made from the art festival is going to be donated choose.

NAHS has one big event every year, and at last year’s large event, Style Your Warriors Foundation. NAHS sponsor to raise a good amount of money this year and to have a large crowd.

“We are hoping for a high turnout,”

or shared booth can help volunteer at the art festival to make sure that everything runs smoothly.

“Some members who didn’t feel

other types of events, we have had more than a hundred people, but we are really expecting a high turnout for the art festival.”

In order to fund the festival, NAHS is getting sponsorships and vendors, as well as hosting a fundraising event in order to help cover the costs of putting on the festival. Sophomore and member festival will be a success and will help NAHS.

work will be helping us because we need The art festival will be from 6-9 p.m. in the cafeteria and tickets will be sold for sell their work.

“It’s going to be a very fun night,” Rothbard said. “If it’s a success, hopefully it will become a tradition.”

GRAPHIC BY AMANDA MORGAN

FEBRUARY 2017

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

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CREAM grand opening attracts crowd

BY GILLIAN D’ONOFRIO ARTS & ENT. COPY EDITOR

More than 1,000 people gathered for the grand opening on Jan. 28 of Cookies Rule Everything Around Me (CREAM), Weston’s newest ice creamery that is known for its staple item: ice cream sandwiches. Free sandwiches were given out from 12-7 p.m.

CREAM, a California-based franchise, was brought to Florida after Class of 2016 alumnus Armando Martinez was inspired by his business plan for a DECA state competition. The Martinez family opened CREAM in Aventura in May 2016 and has now expanded the franchise to Weston.

“Our expectations for Weston had been big, being its city of origin, we were certain [the city] would pull its weight in coming out to celebrate our grand opening,” Martinez said. “That day we gave out 1,600 free sandwiches and we had lines out the door until midnight that night and basically [every night] since.”

To accommodate the line, CREAM staff handed out water and ice cream samples to the customers waiting. made me appreciate the atmosphere of CREAM,” employee and junior Harrison Miller said. “My coworkers and I are already a family and we have only been working together for about a week.”

To prepare for the grand opening, the staff received training in scooping, mak-

ing the product, line movements, how to bake, customer relations, store expectations and health regulations.

“I waited two hours on the opening day but it was completely worth it,” sophomore Samantha Haydu said. “It didn’t even seem like that long because once I actually got in the store and ordered, the service was super quick.”

The store’s options for ice cream sanddosant (croissant donut combination) and churro sandwiches. Customers have a choice of more than 20 different ice add to the sandwich.

“CREAM is different from any other dessert place I’ve been to because you get two desserts in one,” Miller said.

CREAM also offers gluten free and vegan options as well as soy ice cream.

“I think what makes the place different is its huge variety,” Haydu said. “There are so many options that I feel like it is the kind of place that never gets old.”

The store is open seven days a week, from 1-10 p.m. Sunday to Thursday and 12 p.m. to midnight on Friday and Saturday.

“Weston’s support has been really out of this world,” Martinez said. “I am excited by CREAM’s potential and I feel it is truly unique enough to truly change what people say when they think of a great dessert. The best part about this whole ex- CREAM OF THE CROP: perience is seeing the reaction from the customers and the happiness it can bring

Film shows “purpose” Venezuelan restaurant through dog’s perspective fails to meet expectations ing brought back after death as a different dog to a new family. Bailey becomes a variety of different dogs that aid police-

“A Dog’s Purpose”

BY GABBY SONKIN

“A Dog’s Purpose” is an emotional, heartfelt movie that emphasizes the impact a dog can have on a person’s life.

This movie captures a whole new meaning of man’s best friend. It shows an inseparable bond between an owner and a dog that lasts a lifetime.

A young boy, named Ethan named Bailey inside a car without any access to water. It was emotional to see the dog in pain and watch the boy as he notices there was something wrong. His mother allows him to take the dog back home even though it was a struggle to convince his father. This decision changes Ethan’s entire life, as he keeps Bailey by his side through all hardships he endures, including his dad moving out, his house burning down and his athletic future being threatened by an unexpected injury. However, during these hard times, Bailey shows Ethan that he is never alone and always gives Ethan unconditional love and affection like no other. This is an important part in the movie because it sends a message that a dog will always be there when people cannot always be.

Ethan brings Bailey along with him for most of his life, and they know that they have a life-long best friend in one another.

This movie is meant to show the audi-

Budare Bistro back to Ethan where he gives him the life he was meant to live and the love he truly deserves.

Each life Bailey is given shows the audience that a dog can truly change a person and give the strength to make their dreams become a reality. This movie has overly achieved its “purpose” in demonstrating a special bond unlike any other.

“A Dog’s Purpose” is an overall inspiring movie for all pet owners that shows the powerful love a dog expresses and the impact their love can have on a person.

BY SOFIA PLAZ

The new Latin American restaurant Budare Bistro located on Weston Road does not meet the high expectations built by its advertising. The franchise has become famous over the past few months as Latino customers have been posting pictures on Snapchat and Instagram, giving the restaurant recognition and acclaim. incessant fame to the franchise, falsely providing the idea that Budare Bistro has amazing food and a traditional atmosphere. Even though the food is customary to Venezuela, providing the most typical dishes, the environment is anything but attractive. The restaurant lacks cultural expression in the decorations by just having pictures on the walls of the “famous” customers that have eaten there in the past, disregarding any symbolic Venezuelan decorations.

Budare Bistro presents a varied but overpriced menu that has a range of selections from breakfast to dinner. The most acclaimed item available is the Aresteak, pico de gallo, white cheese and tartar sauce for a price of $8.50. The Arepa by providing freshly prepared dough with original Venezuelan white cheese, reminiscent of the customs of country.

On the other hand, the order of tequeños comes with too little food for too high a price, with four small tequeños for a price of $5 or eight pieces for $9.99. Along with the disappointment of the small portion sizes comes the fear of ordering more food and getting another plain dish that does not satiate the want for Venezuelan food.

However, the restaurant has become creative, providing an alternative to the general ways of eating traditional food.

Budare Bistro features a melted mix of white cheese served with small fried arepas, cachapas and sweet plantains in a sort of fondue. Disregarding the high price, the idea proves to be creative as it deviates from the everyday arepa and cachapa.

At the end of the day, Budare Bistro is not a restaurant that is destined to stay on the map for a long time. An enhancement of ambience and food quality are extremely necessary to keep the restaurant going.

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ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

FEBRUARY 2017

Super Cinema The Circuit’s staff reviews recently released superhero and supervillain movies.

“Ant-man”

“Suicide Squad”

BY RACHEL SILVERMAN

BY JENNA FRIEDMAN

-

“Ant-Man,” directed by Peyton Reed, is a refreshing spin to the typical action

secret government agency assembles a team of has to go against their criminal mindsets in

-

“X-Men: Apocalypse”

“Doctor Strange”

BY ANNABELLE DANIELS-ROSENBERG

BY AUSTIN DUNNE

control over everyone and everything. Isaac’s -

“Captain America Civil War”

“Batman v. Superman: Dawn of Justice”

BY SHANTY FIERRO

BY VICTORIA RAIMONDI

OPINION COPY EDITOR

-

FEBRUARY 2017

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

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Thespians prepare for statewide competition

BY JENNA FRIEDMAN

Every year, students in Drama Club rehearse theater pieces to perform at the district competition for awards and the opportunity to go to the state competition in Tampa from March 15 to 18. Since performing at districts on Dec. 10, the students chosen to perform in Tampa have been rehearsing to perfect their performances.

“

Being a thespian has

“

-junior Dani Serota

“Thespians is the most important drama competition,” junior Julia Levy said. “I have been doing it for three years now, and each year I learn more to improve my skills.”

The theater students who go to these competitions are able to interact with students from other schools who share their passions. The competitions allow

them to meet and work with students from other schools. Junior Dani Serota thinks making friends and having fun is vital to these competitions.

“Being a thespian has affected my drama career because I meet so many people from all over the district who have the same interest, and we create really amazing friendships,” Serota said.

At the district competition, the students performed pieces in front of three judges, and those who exceptionally executed their pieces states. Many students earned the highest-level award possible: superiors.

“The students were phenomenal at districts,” Drama Club adviser Cynthia Lutwin said. “We got 29 superiors, and 39 When preparing to go to these competitions, Serota said she spent a great deal of time practicing in order to ensure an excellent performance. aration and the amount of time we have to put into it,” Serota said.

Although the thespians left the district competition with awards, they have been told to further rehearse their pieces in preparation for the state competition. At the state competition, only those who received high honors from district judges will be present.

#STATESBOUND: Seventy members of the Thespian troupe competed at Districts on Dec. 10. They performed pieces both individually and in groups.

a good score at, because everyone who performs is amazing,” Levy said. “It’s hard to do better at states than you did at districts.”

Levy said she participates in these competitions because it gives her plenty of opportunities to strive as a performer. Not only can the

thespians get the experience of workshops and performing in front of crowds, but they can also meet new people from all over the state.

“People are everywhere, but we go together in a group and we watch everybody performing,” Mrs. Lutwin said. “It is such a family atmosphere to me.”

GamePigeon app gains popularity

BY LEXI FLECHNER

The new app GamePigeon allows users to challenge their friends through iMessage to 16 different games ranging from Mancala to Poker. The game gained huge success and popularity with the iOS 10 update, which allows users to link certain apps to iMessage.

“They have so much popularity because they are immensely addicting,” junior Samuel Pinchevsky said.

Pinchevsky said his favorite game on the app is 8-Ball, which puts players in a virtual game of Pool. Pinchevsky said he is the best at this game in particular.

“8-Ball is the most skill-involved game,” Pinchevsky said. “It gives everyone playing something to prove.”

Like Pinchevsky, senior Kim Orelus said she makes frequent use of the GamePigeon games.

“There is a lot of variety in the games and it’s fun to compete against your friends,” Orelus said.

The app, with a four star rating on the app store, has some educational value since some of the games, such as Word Hunt and Anagrams, incorporate vocabulary and engage players’ minds.

“I love playing Word Hunt, because it makes me think,” Orelus said. “I also learn words I never even knew existed.”

GET YOUR GAME ON: GamePigeon provides a variety of games for users to play against their friends in their contact list. This new feature comes with the most recent Apple update (iOS 10). Some of the games are

Students in particular can become obsessed with the games and play during class or instead of doing homework.

English and debate teacher Tori Warenik said the game distracts her students during class.

“The games are a way to distract students from what they should be doing in my class,” Ms. Warenik said. “It’s pretty competitive in nature and I feel that that speaks to a basic human need of ours.”

Ms. Warenik said the games are

highly detrimental to the education and need for haste and speed and instant health of her students.

“I have things to teach that will help are just like a little while ago with students in their lives and 8-Ball is not TriviaCrack.”

Orelus said the games can distract her being able to get their phones close in class and draw her focus away from enough to their faces to cause eyesight lessons. damage,” she said.

“The app can be distracting because is Though it is disruptive, Ms. Warenik it just so addicting,” Orelus said. “I always said this is just another fad that captivates want to play as soon as my friend answers, students for a couple months. no matter if I’m in class or studying.”

“This generation is easily distracted and the iMessage games speak to their

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OPINION

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Oscar nominations foster equality For the past two years, the Academy Awards have made headlines for its lack of diversity in its nominations. The hashtag #OscarsSoWhite went viral on social media, when all 20 actors and actresses nominated for the four main acting categories were white. Actors Will Smith and Spike Lee protested the 2016 program in opposition of its shortage of representation. When studies further exposed that the pool of Oscars voters was 94 percent Caucasian and 77 percent male, the academy decided to make membership a possibility for a larger variety of people. The subsequent increase in membership of women and people of color seems to have made a difference with this year’s nominees. In the four main acting categories, seven people of color are nominated. Also, four of the star people of color. Although this is still not up to par with the standards of many protesters, there is no denying that the academy took into consideration the previous criticisms.

“Hidden Figures,” which won the Screen Actors Guild Award for Best Ensemble in a Motion Picture, is one picture that the Oscars highlighted in its nomiaround three African-American women who played a vital part in NASA’s pivotal

Americans nor Hispanic Americans

Bottom Line: The Academy Awards take a step toward achieving longawaited equal racial representation.

ILLUSTRATION BY BROOKE MILLER

in ‘50s Pittsburgh. Last awards season, none of the recognized movies were led by non-white actors, which leads to the debate of whether the under-representation exists in the award shows or in Hollywood executives. As seen in the lack of diversity in the movies themselves, it is obviously the fault of the latter.

The Academy Awards prides itself

made for this year’s diversity in nominafostered two of the seven non-white actor nominations. It focuses on the life of two average African-American people living

performances each year, so is the academy being ignorant of its own mission statement or is it rightfully choosing from a homogeneous pool of eligible nomi-

nees? The reason for #OscarsSoWhite is very possibly the lack of diversity among

The best hope for future absence of #OscarsSoWhite is a greater representation of people of different races, genders and religions. The Tony Awards recently went through a similar longawaited growth in minority representation, when the four main acting categories were awarded to African-American performers from “Hamilton” and “The Color Purple.” For the sake of the Academy Awards, a comparable increase is necessary in coming years. Although the hashtag might not be applicable this year, further effort of minority representation will need to continue to ensure the extinction of #OscarsSoWhite.

Oscar nominee the Weeknd weighed in on the issue last year, saying, “I think it’s much deeper than the academy or

Caucasian and 100 percent of whom are male. While much of the blame rested on the shoulders of the academy the past two years, the root cause is just the routine storytelling of primarily white males in It’s an issue that the nation has been dealHollywood movies and the fear of execu- ing with, and I’m glad this has sparked tives to stray away from the proven for- a conversation.” While the Oscars debate has awoken an argument in the entertainseems to be on an upward trend, there is ment industry, its roots go back much still a large American majority unrepre- deeper to the intolerance that still seeps its way into Hollywood.

Flash of brilliance

YES Every year, course selection cards are scheduled to come out at the beginning of the third quarter. While some students complain that the cards come out too early, they are scheduled this way for a reason. For one, the amount of time to go through all the paperwork from each student. With 4,700 plus course cards, it takes a long time to enter everyone’s classes into Since the distribution is early, guidance counselors have enough time to give advice to every student on their future course load and schedule. This advice is critical because they know all the courses well enough to tell students if it will suit them or not. Likewise, the additional time gives the college advisers enough time to meet with students about what classes they should take, in order to get into their dream college. Students also have time to switch their classes after turning in their cards if they have a change of heart, and teachers can give accurate recommendations to every one of their students in order to ensure their success. Ultimately, the early course card distribution helps students to make sure they pick the right classes for their future.

- Lexi Flechner

Do course selection cards come out too early?

NO

Course selection cards are distributed to students toward the end of January, which, in my opinion, is way too early. Students at the Bay are already under a lot of pressure with their current course load, and this just adds additional unnecessary stress to their plate. Even though handing out the cards early allows administration more time to organize and plan ahead for the next school year, it is not fair to the students. Picking courses for the next school year can impact a student’s educational future greatly, as more rigorous schedules appeal to colleges. Course cards become a topic of discussion at the beginning of second semester, and it is becomes a distraction for teachers, students and guidance counselors. While everyone is trying to transition back into school after winter break, the course cards only prohibit students from learning and getting back into a routine. Course selection cards should be passed out to students at the end of third quarter; this would enable students to analyze how ILLUSTRATION BY ELLIE SACHS they are doing in their current classes and to make a better decision for the Visit cbhscircuit. future. All in all, the course selection com to vote on card process should occur later on in the this topic.

but teachers and faculty, as well.

- Ellie Sachs

FEBRUARY 2017

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OPINION

FEBRUARY 2017

Redundant safety measure loses value Broward County schools abide by the Emergency Preparedness Program that

because of the unconcern of the alarm that it provokes.

This desensitization is a clearly an

of every school year, along with providing staff with an evacuation plan, is enough to

would react quick enough to allow everyone to escape safely, due to this

alarm. Practicing evacuation procedures 10 times per school year will only serve to desensitize both students and faculty

drill is to practice the proper evacuation too many times prevents us from being able to recognize how serious it actually might be.

In order to reduce this desensitization,

Practicing clearing the buildings

Bottom Line:

required to carry out should be reduced.

Hearing the alarm less often would allow students and teachers to react as they intended to mock an emergency situation, but the frequency of them keeps us from responding the way that we should. is not only an issue in school, but also for the future of anyone’s life in general.

Fire alarms can happen at any time in any place, and it is extremely important that we are able to recognize the seriousness

fourth time practicing, the evacuation process becomes repetitive, and we instinctively become reluctant to react.

Fire alarms are meant to be alarming; an immediate reaction of evacuation should follow the sound of the alarm. However, after hearing the alarm so many times (as this Emergency Preparedness Program requires), students and teachers are not

our shoulders with the assumption that it is a false alarm. We cannot ignore GRAPHIC BY AMANDA MORGAN

interruption; please disregard the alarm” countless times, even teachers become frequent enough to desensitize us, but the hesitant to evacuate when hearing an false alarms contribute to this as well. unplanned alarm. Oftentimes, when After hearing the phrase “pardon the alarm.

ring, they will tell their students to remain sitting and wait for the announcement of it being a false alarm; this is an issue that needs to be combated before it brings consequences. The frequency of these

danger that can arise from this ignorance.

Although the intentions of the Emergency Preparedness Program are thoughtful, it is important that we limit the number become neglected completely.

Letters to thE Editor waiting outside of the parking lot every day before school Every morning, thousands of students enter Cypress Bay through the student parking lot. It is crucial for the policeman/policewoman to be at the intersection to avoid putting pedestrians and drivers in danger. With cars coming from the opposite direction with the same plan of turning into the parking lot, it’s extremely easy to think it is “your turn” to turn when the other car has the same idea. This would cause a car accident or an abrupt slam on the breaks. Drivers would also become frustrated after waiting for several minutes- waiting for a car to let them go. In addition, students are also crossing the street to get on campus. If a car does not see this, a student could be hit and get severely police to be waiting outside the student ensure a smooth morning.

- Kaelin Danieli, senior

Senior skip day should be recognized by teachers Senior skip day is an annual tradition for seniors; teachers, underclassmen and even parents are aware of it. There are some teachers that try to encourage their seniors to attend class by threatening to assign a ridiculous amount of homework or deduct points off of an assignment.

Since so many people recognize that it allow it as a day off because seniors have worked so hard on their college apps, getting good grades in their classes and

planning out their whole life. It should be fair to give at least one free day to the graduating class because it is their last year, and they have endured four years of teachers and assignments, so one day would not kill anyone. Those AP teachers that get upset by their students that don’t

year. One of the few things that may come to mind when thinking about your third year, are the two exams that will basically govern your college career: the ACT and SAT. Once a year the PSAT is offered to underclassmen for free and upperclassmen for a fee. these kids work hard and they deserve Most underclassmen don’t really take it one day off.

- Michael Martinez, senior It’s good prep for those that have studied and taken courses, but unfortunate A/B block scheduling is for those that haven’t. The PSAT is mandated once a year, so after that one day there’s not much practice you can get One of the many things I really like from the school. Offering SAT courses about Cypress Bay is the block schedule. at school for a reasonable fee would greatly improve not only the scores, but the other four the next day allows more save students some cash. By providing an time for students to do their homework. after school prep service, students would Seven classes is a lot to do work for in be able to have a resource that would one day, and have it due the next day. motivate them to attend and prepare.

Some kids have a hard time doing all that homework, especially when they up being very costly; so they may end up participate in extracurricular activities. turning to an online service. Once they The A/B schedule takes a lot of pressure forget to log on one day, it might make off and allows for better quality work. them forget about it in general.

Having only four classes a day also allows -Sarah Hazari, sophomore for more to be accomplished in each class.

If all seven classes were in one day, that Friendship should be celebrated makes each class have a much shorter on Valentine’s Day period to learn lessons. Some lessons will Valentine’s Day is an overrated class, and be pushed off until the next day. holiday. Not everyone in high school is The new block schedule is much better, in a relationship, or if they are, it may for both students and teachers. not be during the February timeframe.

-Jillian Kuntze, freshman I personally go out with my friends to celebrate the holiday. Valentine’s Day is SAT preparation classes should known as the Day of Love, and I love my friends. Instead of Valentine’s Day, we Sophomore year is the time to think celebrate Galentine’s Day. We exchange about (or have an idea of) college, work

of our friendship. On the Saturday, before or after V-Day, we go to Cheesecake Factory and share orange chicken then a slice of cookie dough cheesecake. After we’re full to the brim, we walk around Sawgrass Mall to work off the food and feel better about ourselves. We pick out Out and try to outdo the other. This is an easy tradition for those that are single during the holiday. Though we have to survive that one dreaded day, we have that one night to look back on each and every year. Just because there’s a holiday for relationships, doesn’t mean that there can’t be one for friendships, which is why we do Galentine’s Day. -Hannah Kate Crippen, freshman

Letters to the editor are encouraged as part of The Circuit’s mission as a public forum. Submissions should not exceed 300 words; they should be dropped off in Room 360 or mailed to the school to the attention of adviser Andre Shannon. phrasing of the letter, but letters are subject to editing for length, clarity, punctuation and grammar. Anonymous letters will not be printed and the to the publication. Any material deemed libelous, obscene, disruptive or unlawful to minors will not be published.

OPINION

FEBRUARY 2017

News delivery misconstrued through media organizations’ evident bias crowd at the inauguration or speculates

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Betsy DeVos is a nonsensical choice for Secretary of Education This past week I witnessed a American taxpayers, as she has provided monumental tiebreaker in our nation’s little to no clarity on how she plans to history. No, it was not Super Bowl LI that spend those tax dollars.

our noses. The media extends its voice, Secretary and the media already have a sometimes subtly and sometimes not, hostile relationship, how can we trust his through television programs and social I do not care about the president’s our government places little to no value on the American education system. point, it is hard to distinguish whether we On Feb 7., vice president and president or material constructed with the intent to

technology education and math) subjects are becoming increasingly important to maintain a competitive edge in the global behind or deprioritize education in any

automatically turned to the media as articles or watch television with a online articles and televised news critical eye. I want to be able to make content are easily accessible and easy to trust. I have learned in the past year or two, however, that my trust was It would be awesome to be able to take misplaced. I have come to see that the to know that it is real and unbothered by someone’s opinion. Scanning through the owned) has the clout to determine which issues to cover and how to present them. what to believe is an exhausting process.

Reading a news story plagued by bias mainstream media could be biased; it could come with a twist to the story. As a Bottom Line: result, it is nearly impossible to decipher the presenter.

I plan on majoring in political science as an undergraduate, and this is a phenomenon I have struggled with recently. I want to keep up with the new going on behind closed doors and what

Political news that comes from mainstream media is typically biased or manipulated to favor a particular view.

has ever had to resolve a tie on a cabinet nomination. Despite widespread and

Bottom Line: Important government positions should be individuals.

public schools not only provide a sound

process, I was appalled to watch a woman American’s dependence on public school systems clearly represents the disconnect system in our country. A woman, who involvement with the public school a means to protect against grizzly bears. the education system, as evident in her

at a restaurant: you wish it were not there,

starting to understand the consequences,

in education, DeVos responded with a

developments, because I am just starting to actively keep up with the news. But to avoid dropping it in. how am I supposed to know what is really

DeVos’s stance on many issues sets a need in our current economic, political and social climates.

Bottom Line: Citizens should take action rather than complain about changes in government. to be changed. At these marches, protes tors across the country displayed signs in

I am not speaking out against Trump. I do something about it. I think we can all

equality and environmental protection.

Pessimistic energy should be expressed through activism ton D.C. The next day a more progressive pro

wide spectrum and apply beyond politics. to oppose during his presidency.

It comes as no surprise that many don’t sit around; instead, get involved and Americans have been upset about Trump speak out. not change it. As a country, we cannot States. According to a poll by CNN and

ple, then why are so many people wor ried about the newest presidency? In this gether around the world to protest the the country is more deeply divided on current political climate, we, the people, major issues this year than in the past Trump builds his wall, try to tear it down. changes in our government. inaugurated into the presidency, mak cial. According to the New York Times,

turned into a vicious rage. Violent pro rested. Injured police, burning cars and shattered glass characterized the havoc

gether, walked the streets and held signs to express what they thought was right.

cal system.

ple gathered together at these women’s

bered as the day the people became the trations about Trump, taking to social media and blogs to express what they do newest presidency, they made a statement. not like about him. As I search through ing the boss, but the tables have turned.

The women’s marches had one ma Now, he is the apprentice to the Ameri all, the Constitution does not say “I, the

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OPINION

FEBRUARY 2017

PHOTO BY COLEMAN NELSON

Inauguration opens eyes to controversy

Eleven months ago, my dad walked into my living room with his laptop in hand, glee in his eyes and announced that he was taking my sister and I to Washington for the 45th presidential inauguration.

This was back before neither party had a nominee, back when the candidates were Ted Cruz, Marco Rubio, Donald Trump, Hillary Clinton and Bernie Sanders.

Months in advance, my father had booked our hotel, purchased plane tickets and Metro cards and arranged our trip to the nation’s capital, determined to give his daughters the trip of a lifetime.

I would be able to say that I was in the very heart of the nation as, arguably, the most controversial candidate in history was sworn in as president of the United States.

“You’ll be witnessing history,” he’d say in the months leading up to the trip. “No matter who becomes president, you’ll be witnessing history.”

Whenever he could, he stressed how momentous this election and this inauguration would be; he wanted my sister and I to experience everything that came with it—the good, the bad and the ugly.

When Donald Trump was elected as the 45th president of the United States, all of our friends and family worried about our safety, sure that protests and perhaps even riots would break out in the streets of D.C., but for me, it only fueled my excitement; this was it.

I would be submerged in the action; no longer did I have to read about it

on the news or watch it on TV—I would be able to formulate my own opinions about an event the whole world would be watching, I would be immersed in in U.S. history. Because of my love for journalism and writing, the notion of being able to document all of it in my own words thrilled me. I would be able to say that I was in the very heart of the nation as, arguably, the most controversial candidate in history was sworn in as president of the United States.

We arrived in D.C. the evening of Jan. 18, 2017, two days before Donald Trump was to be inaugurated. News of a Women’s March taking place on Jan. 21, the day after the Inauguration, had spread, and this simply incited my anticipation. We saw a few protestors here and there in the days leading up to Trump’s swearing in, but not as many as we expected. On Thursday, we attended the inaugural concert in front of the Lincoln memorial, and what really awed me was the unwavering patriotism that all of the people there felt and exhibited.

During Sam Moore’s moving rendition of “America the Beautiful,” many even cried, and it was touching to see so many people showing such nationalism for our country in one place. As we walked through the gray streets that afternoon, the tension for the coming day was almost palpable. preparations were being carried out for the big day; sound checks echoed out through the cold air as workers set up fences, speakers, and screens.

Then came the next day, and with it, the 58th Presidential Inauguration. On our way to the National Mall, we came across so many different people—proud Trump supporters (never had I seen so much red “Make America Great Again!” merchandise in one place), eager reporters, agitated list just went on. The Inauguration

PHOTO SUBMITTED BY PATRICIA FERNANDEZ

POLITICAL PARTY: inauguration, the inaugural concert in front of the Lincoln memorial and the

itself, though a bit freezing for a Floridian, and wet, was unforgettable.

My father, being the careful planner he is, brought along binoculars for us to peer at the Capitol with more detail. It is such a unique experience, seeing people that you always hear about on the news and television in person, and the same goes for hearing them speak. The atmosphere in the crowd during Trump’s swearing in was certainly something I was not used to; South Florida is generally a liberal area, but suddenly there, I was in the middle of a sea of red caps.

What shocked me most was that the following day, the capital of our country mindset, for the Women’s March that was set to take place. Although my views did

not exactly align with those marching, I marched along with them—as a kind of reporter. I interviewed people from all parts of the country, asked them what they hoped to gain from the march, asked them to express their opinions and explain their perspectives. Through it all, I took an abundance of pictures, recorded passionate people’s audible responses to my questions and interacted in a way I never had the opportunity to before.

Although that weekend was not as hectic as I expected it to be, for me, the opportunity to be there as history was made right in front of my eyes was an experience that I will never forget.

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My nerves got the best of me right when I was handed the microphone. As I walked to the middle of the stage, I looked right into the crowd. Hundreds of people were glaring right at me with their hands over their hearts; they were waiting

the hardest songs any singer could sing to an audience. It is not just because of the insanely high and long notes that a singer must reach throughout the song’s duration, it is also because the song speaks measures about the United States’ national identity: something I recently deep breath. Singing the national anthem feel many people have forgotten. meant more to me than just singing any other song. This was one of the most The applause I received terrifying experiences in my entire life, Since I was 5-years-old, I have always hoped that my name would be known in the music industry one day. As I grew older, my passion for singing only continued to grow. While I love singing all of the latest and greatest pop songs, singing songs dedicated to my country that I love so dearly. Year after year, I watched the Super Bowl just to hear a celebrity sing the national anthem, the beacon song of our country. It may not be the Super Bowl, but when I was given the option to sing the national anthem at Central Park in Plantation, I could not pass up the opportunity. shaking: whether it was very cold or just my nerves, I knew that I had to nail this performance as a part of the potential lifelong journey that lay ahead of me. The took the stage. I feared embarrassment; failure was not an option. However, as the song progressed, I felt myself slowly getting more comfortable with both the people in front of me, and the words that passed through my lips. I reminded myself of what this song meant to me and to the rest of the country.

To me, the national anthem is one of

great self-pride, not just because I had sung the song successfully, but because I had the of people together in a

Over the past few months, our nation has been divided into two halves: those who support President Donald Trump and those who do not. As time has progressed, the divide has grown deeper and deeper, and some people have turned to violence to express their sides’ values.

This is not what our country is about; this is not what our national anthem praises.

The national anthem speaks of unity among American citizens, that despite whatever race, gender or religion you practice, you are free and you are equal: your opinions and your voice matter just as much as everyone else’s. It took me half way through singing the national anthem to remember this, and it occurred to me that everyone I was singing for at that moment would accept me whether or not I nailed the song or completely blanked.

me with great self-pride, not just because I had sung the song successfully, but because I had the power to bring a group of people together in a brief moment of political harmony. There were Democrats present, and there were Republicans present; but during the national anthem,

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RAISE YOUR VOICE: Junior Hayley Princz performed the National Anthem at Central Park in Plantation before a charity event. Princz has been singing since she was 5-years-old and aspires to be a professional singer. While singing the national anthem, Princz said she overcame her nerves and brought people of all political beliefs together.

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the crowd standing in front of me.

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there were only Americans. I believe being an American is about being united as one body. Even though I was very nervous while singing, I am proud that I

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FEBRUARY 2017