The C.H.AT. Spirit Week issue 2017-18

Rise and Shout, the Jaguars are Out!

Spirit Week 2017

Sarah Barrocas Editor -in-Chief Alexa Infante - Content Sofia Alfonso - Layout Managing Editors Chatter Daily News Evan Samuels Web Managing Editor Brittany Evelyn - Content Sarah Barrocas - Layout Business Managers Mr. J. Harris - Layout Mr. F. Fagen - Content Mr. J. Harris - Video Advisors Mr. P. Bayer Principal Brittany Evelyn News Editor Ainsley McCormick Student Life Editor

Contents

The C.H.C. Staff

Swati Kumar Technology Editor Jordan Alberti Sports Editor Paolo Barrera Features Editor Elizabeth Castillo Clubs Editors Ainsley McCormick Community Outreach

Pages 4-5:

Justin Dourvetakis- The CHAT Eric Hernandez - Web Photo Editors Justin Pierce Graphics Editor

Content Staff: Jordan Alberti, Florencia Azcurra, Sofia Azcurra, Paolo Barrera, Roselle Curiel, Mason Feldman, Matthew Hernandez, Janae McDonnough, Frank Mora, Christopher Nappi, Andres Perez, Amanda Rodriguez, Diego Salazar Layout Staff: Jose Bozo, Tomas Eiletz Bottaro, Sarah Barrocas, Esteban Gangotena Photography Staff: Julian Barcelo, Justin Dourvetakis, Omar Loutfi, Giulia Marcondes

Student Life: Spirit Week Day 1 Matching Monday

Pages 6-7:

GRAPHIC STAFF: Nicole Mercadal, Micheal Perez, Justin Pierce

The C.H.A.T. is an official publication of the Pembroke Pines Charter High School (PPCHS). The content of our newspaper is not necessarily the opinions of our advisers and administration.

The C.H.A.T. staff welcomes any comments to the editors and/or staff.

The C.H.A.T is a publication of C.H.C (Charter High Communications) sponsored by the Communications & Technology Department of PPCHS. Pembroke Pines Charter High School 17189 Sheridan Street Pembroke Pines, FL 33331 Phone: 954-538-3700 Email: chc.ppchs@gmail.com Twitter: @_theCHATter Instagram: @thechatnews The CHAT welcomes letters to the editor. Letters must be signed. The staff reserves the right to edit letters for poor taste, libel, and space.

Drop off letters in room C113 or send an email to chc.ppchs@gmail.com

Student Life: Spirit Week Day 2 Broadway/Blockbuster Tuesday

Pages 8-9: Student Life: Monday & Tuesday Student Features

Pages 10-11: Student Life: Spirit Week Day 3 Around the World Wednesday

Pages 12-13: Student Life: Spirit Week Day 4 Tacky Tourist Thursday

Pages 14-15: Student Life: Wednesday & Thursday Student Features

Pages 16-17: Student Life: Spirit Week Day 4 Fear the Paws Friday

Pages 18-21: Student Life: Pep Rally: Pines Charter Puts a ‘Pep’ in Their Rally

Pages 22-23: Student Life: Friday Student Features

Student Life

PPCHS Sees Do

Elizabe

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atching Monday started off in the best way possible: Florida finally hit a cold front PPCHS as they were heading to school for the first day of spirit week. For the freshman cla tradition they now get to participate in; however, for the class of 2018, it was the beginning theme day: Matching Monday.

Freshmen to seniors look forward to this day all year round. Many students, like freshm best friend decided to dress up as each other, commenting, “Honestly I had a great time, ev which was my best friend Anthony.” The freshmen did not disappoint on this Matching M Unlike, Abraham, senior Savinna Frias is now experiencing her fourth spirit week. She sai for my first ever twin day or Matching Monday like it was yesterday. Today, I’m matching a bright orange shirt to celebrate Halloween tomorrow. So far, it’s been a fun day.” Sopho pretty good Matching Monday. I saw really cool and interesting stuff, like a guy in a blow costumes range from fruit to extinct predators. It is clear that no matter the grade level, M Of course, it wouldn’t be Matching Monday at PPCHS without a SpongeBob and Patrick shaw is a senior, it’s his first and last time participating in Matching Monday, “It was truly during my time at Pembroke Pines Charter High School,” said senior Jordan Crenshaw.

PPCHS students also celebrated their favorite sport teams, like junior Haley Springer. “ Marlins jersey, and showed team spirit all day. The sports teams that many PPCHS students University of Central Florida, and University of Florida. All over campus, you would have Two close knitted seniors who have been best friends since kindergarten dressed up for the watched countless times together as kids. They dressed up as Shrek characters, and could ears at the top. “We know it’s silly and weird, but since we’re seniors we decided to honor pictures, but it’s for the last time,” said senior Margaret Copello.

As you walked down the halls at PPCHS, you would’ve seen twins everywhere taking p from high school forever. Photographers for the yearbook and newspaper classes were sna making sure her second time participating in spirit week is one for the books. She said, “I spirit week unites the school.” Many groups of students from all ages were seen goofing o their outrageous costumes or not being able to keep a straight face with their twin, it was a Congratulations to all who participated in this year’s Matching Monday. Although it m Regardless if you and your best friend dressed up as frat boys or jail mates, remember to day, even if you’re a new student to PPCHS or an upperclassmen who has participated in t unique costumes. Matching Monday was a huge success, and a great way to kick off the re

Photos By: Andres Alfonso, Nicholas Ahmad, Aryiel Bryant, Maya Cab

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Student Life

Castillo

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t, and it has never felt more like fall. The crisp autumn breeze brushed over the students of ass, it’s their first spirit week ever. They walk into school anticipating the beginning of a new g to an end. Nonetheless, one of the best weeks in the school year commences with a beloved

man Abraham Nunez, just are experiencing their first day of spirit week ever. Nunez and his ven though it was my first year, because as soon as I step into a room people knew who I was, Monday with their creativity. id, “It’s crazy how this is my first last day of spirit week here. I remember being really excited g with my actual twin sister and best friend. We are wearing fuzzy socks, white converse, and omore, Aisha Sivilay has a similar perspective about Matching Monday, stating, “This was a wup dinosaur costume and my two best friends dressed up like bananas.” Here at PPCHS, the Matching Monday will leave all students smiling and laughing. k, portrayed by longtime friends Sabrina Perez and Jordan Crenshaw. Although Jordan Creny and honestly a life changing experience, and it was the most school spirit I’ve shown so far

“I matched with a friend because we’re both big fans of the Marlins.” She wore her favorite s honored ranged from the Marlins to the Dolphins, and even college teams like Florida State, e found different jerseys from all over the country. eir last Matching Monday. They decided to honor their favorite childhood movie, one they’ve dn’t stop laughing all throughout the day. They even had matching headbands that had green our favorite movie as kids. It’s bittersweet though, it was so much fun dressing up and taking

pictures of their costumes, making sure that with a tap of a button, they kept a fun memory apping pictures of groups ranging for two to ten students all day. Sophomore Lia Goodman is It’s really fun. I’m with a big group, and we’re matching as classic Miami girls. It’s cool that off and having a blast with their twins today. Whether that meant laughing their heads off at a day full of fun and laughter. may seem small, you participated in a long and cherished tradition in the Jaguar community. o cherish that memory and your time spent celebrating Matching Monday. At the end of the three to four Matching Mondays, PPCHS students don’t fail to surprise each other with their est of spirit week.

abrerea. Justin

Dourvetakis, Aijah Harper,

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Eric Hernandez

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Student Life

Brittany

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ll the world›s a stage, and all the men and women merely players. Continuing the s Broadway/ Blockbuster Tuesday.

Movie stars, Broadway actors and actresses, and musical artists filled the PPCHS halls o action movies, and more. Freshmen and seniors alike proudly strutted to class in their nices Luke Skywalker, and the Heathers.

Freshman Elize Balance was amongst the crowd pleasers, as she debuted her outfit on SG Elize received a roaring acceptance from her peers. “I decided to dress up as Rafiki from T I figured it would be an easier choice,” she said. Elize sported a black and white detailed s paint. Juniors Amanda Gore, Brittany Evelyn, Brandon Causing, Katelyn Ramirez, Jasmin day by recreating an episode of It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia. The friends impersonate “It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia” because it’s something we all watch when we’re toget goes to sophomore Naveen Farook, whose presence was noticed far and wide. Straying fr Hunchback of Notre Dame. “There are a lot of female Disney characters that people dress so I’m following in her footsteps. It’s been fun walking around and seeing if people are ab

They were not the only students to find a special approach. Some even took their creativity theme. Charter saw some of the students’ favorite artists, including Ski Mask, Post Malone

For the seniors this year, the idea of spirit week is a bittersweet one. Senior Guy Boston o went all out, not only wearing the orange and grey top with camouflage shorts, but complet in the show. “I chose ‘I-Carly’ because it was an important part of my childhood, I used to to fully resemble the look I decided on.” Guy makes sure to stress the fact that T-Bo didn’t As this is his final year at PPCHS, and final spirit week, Guy expressed his excitement tha

Seniors Serena Somuah, Vehendra Charles, and Maya Dubois can agree. In their junior ye wasn’t until their senior year that they were able to do so. Serena dressed up as Dijonay Jon is like me, she’s the type of person who never takes no for an answer, gushes over any gu inspiration behind the idea for the group as a whole was brought to light at a rehearsal for d causing Serena to call her Penny from then on. “We thought it would be a fun idea to dress The girls were especially excited for this spirit week because they wanted to show off the they realize they will soon be leaving this all in the past.

Spirit week is always a blast, as most students look forward to the week where they get to week off to a fantastic start and get students excited for the fall pep rally.

Photos By: Andres Alfonso, Nicholas Ahmad, Aryiel Bryant, Maya

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Student Life

Evelyn

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spirit week festivities, Jags took the stage to showcase their creative and artistic talents on

on Tuesday. Students dressed up as characters from their favorite Disney movies, comedies, st outfits, representing fan favorites such as Lilo & Stitch, Boo, Mike Wazowski and Sullivan,

GA’s runway during A lunch. From her crazy blue and purple hair to her authentic costume, The Lion King because I love that movie. Also, because my hair is already purple and blue so shawl, a cane with beads dangling from the top, and intricate blue, gold, red, and white face ne Perez, and Sarah Rodriguez put their own take on Spirit Week’s Blockbuster/ Broadway ed the characters that spoke to them the most, finding humor in their decision. “We decided on ther, allowing us to create new bonds and memories,” said Gore. Another honorable mention rom the most popular Disney princesses, Naveen decided to dress up at Esmeralda from The up as and I don’t think they are as inspiring,” says Naveen. “My sister looks like Esmeralda ble to guess who I am,” she adds.

y to the next level by dressing up as their favorite musicians, connecting to the day’s musical e, Playboi Carti, and xxxtentacion.

only deepened the admiration his peers have for him by modeling as T-Bo from “I-Carly.” He ting the look by carrying around bagels on a stick, as T-Bo is well known for foods on a stick o watch it all the time. I was trying to think of someone on TV or in a movie that has dreads, t just have bagels on a stick, he had pickles, donuts, tacos - anything you can name he had it. at this year was so successful.

ear the group came up with the idea to dress up as characters from “The Proud Family”, but it nes, Vehendra as Penny Proud, and Maya as LaCienega Boulevardez. Serena states, “Dijonay uy she thinks is cute, is lazy, funny, and sarcastic, and likes to party - which is all me!” The dance team. One day last year Vehendra had her hair up, in a similar fashion to Penny Proud, up as characters that we relate to. They’re basically another us in cartoon form,” said Serena. eir creativity before they graduate. It will definitely be a bittersweet week for all seniors, as

o show off their creative efforts and school spirit. Tuesday’s theme is a great way to get spirit Cabrerea. Justin Dourvetakis, Aijah Harper,

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Eric Hernandez

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Matching Monday

Justin Yara

FRESHMAN

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Gustavo Salama

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Arianna Ozuna

Amanda Rodriguez

Staff Writer

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ustin Yara turned heads on the first day of spirit week by taking the theme of twinning and turning it into something comedic. He twinned with his friend, sophomore John Wenzel. The two decided to dress as chickens. “One day I was walking in Walmart, and I saw a chicken costume that was out for Halloween, and I thought it was a pretty funny idea,” said Justin.

Everyone gathered around to giggle and take pictures of their costumes all day long.

The boys received a lot of attention from people they didn’t even know. Random teachers and students chatted to Yara throughout the day simply because of his costume. Choosing such an outfit is bold and outgoing. His goal was to be funny, and what better way to make people laugh than with a full body costume? Yara didn’t mind all the attention because he enjoyed being able to lighten someone’s day. Wearing a full body costume came with some downsides though, one of them being the heat. “It wasn’t really that uncomfortable and it didn’t get in the way but it was extremely hot.” He had to take a couple breaks from wearing the costume because although it was a chilly day, he was not cool at all.

Yara is not done making the most of the creative opportunity that spirit week provides.

His humor clearly translates through his choice in chicken costume for Matching Monday, and plans to continue the rest of spirit week with some comedic relief.

Ethan Coello

Daniel Platta

SENIOR

JUNIOR

ustavo Salama took a tasty approach on this spirit week’s Matching Monday, dressing up as a bright yellow banana! He expressed how excited he was to share the idea with his friends, satisfied with their agreement to the idea. Him and is yellow companions were eager to share their school spirit in such a humorous way.

“It’s important to show school spirit to express student pride, and participating in a school activity is a great way to get involved. It gives students a chance to have more fun during their school week by dressing up according to topic, whether it be funny or cool,” he said. This matching event is just one of the ways he’s made memories this school year.

He described his experience at the school so far as “amazing” and has even become very involved with the school, providing him with friends from all different grade levels. These active involvements include the robotics club and band, where he plays the oboe and has even recently joined the drumline. Being a part of band has also allowed him to play along with his bandmates during some of the football games, and it gives him joy to be able to cheer the team on while encouraging them and furthering his school spirit even more.

Some will even get to check out Salama drumming away at this year’s pep rally.

Salama and his crew of yellow bananas definitely showed the school what a “bunch” of unique costumes looks like on Matching Monday.

Jordan Alberti

Frank Mora

Sports Editor

Staff Writer

that is loved by many. The Akatski are a group of rogue ninja’s that terrorize the world of Naruto. The most spirited Akatski member out there was Ethan Coello. He was not the only one to wear the black robe with red cloud patches symbolizing fighting and war in Naruto, but he may have been the most spirited student wearing this attire. “It was pretty cool to gang up with the other Akatski members around Charter. Overall, it was just cool to have people compliment the robe and to share some common ground with people, even if I had never talked to them before,” said Coello.

Outside of the costume, Ethan is a swimmer and water polo player for Charter. He excels in all sports, but most especially in water polo. He is a player for the US National water polo and he plays at the team branch in Davie. This allows him to travel all around the US, and even go out of the country, to play some of the best junior water polo players in the world.

All in all, Ethan showed his passion for Naruto and translated it through his outfit. Expect to see Ethan in some more funky outfits and costumes throughout the rest of this year’s spirit week!

encouraged to dress down identically with one or several of their friends. One student who decided to go full throttle for the day was senior Daniel Platta. Platta chose to match with senior Bergan Oudshoorn as the two wore long black and red robes, characterizing their favorite TV cartoon, Naruto. Naruto, a Japanese cartoon series, is very popular among students in PPCHS and around the world. The show is known for its great character development and intense fighting.

Platta said, “Bergan and I decided to dress up as the Eagle Group in Naruto. We did this because our favorite episodes were the ones which included them. We both love Naruto because the Japanese culture is quite interesting and it’s our favorite show to watch by far.

The show has crazy fight scenes and action and the attire they wear is really detailed and unique so we thought why not try to replicate it.” Without a doubt, the seniors pulled off the look as their black and red robes included big lettering and the Eagle Groups’ intricate emblem, closely impersonating the outfit of the characters in the series.

These two weren’t the only ones to hit the first day of Spirit Week out of the park, but definitely took a new twist on this year’s classic Matching Monday.

Monday, October 30th, was the first day of spirit week, and all of Charter showed things Onand the first day of spirit week here at PPCHS, you could often see double of many off their coolest or nost favorite things to match with someone else. Naruto is a TV series people. Monday, October 30th was “Matching Monday,” and students were

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Photos By: Andres Alfonso

BlockBuster/Broadway Tuesday Kristy Navarro

FRESHMAN

SOPHOMORE

Isabella Gonzalez

Elizabeth Castillo

Roselle Curiel

Clubs Editor

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t’s safe to say that freshmen Isabelle Gonzalez did not disappoint on PPCHS Blockbuster Tuesday. Isabella traveled back in time, and decided to dress up as a hippie, inspired by the countless portrayals of hippies in movies. However, it’s not just their tie dye shirts and peace symbols that inspired Isabella to dress like one, in fact it’s the opposite. “I was inspired to be a hippie because I like how they view life and approach things with a positive attitude,” said Isabella. Isabella really tried to capture the essence of her character by trying to portray their happy attitude all day. Plus, the hippie attire would not be complete without wearing the iconic round sunglasses and bell bottom pants with floral designs, a colorful fringed shawl, a classic headband, and of course, throwing peace signs all throughout Blockbuster Tuesday.

Since Isabella is a freshmen, she was very intrigued by a new tradition that she now gets to be a part of. Spirit week would not be as fun or as creative without students dressing up as their favorite type of character on this particular day, and Isabella did just that. From the perspective of someone who has never experienced Blockbuster Tuesday before, Isabella wanted to give her all, since this is one of the many milestones of her high school career. “I had a fun experience, and it was cool seeing everyone dressed up in different costumes.”

Isabella Gonzalez truly out did herself on this Blockbuster Tuesday, and will continue to do so as her high school journey continues.

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Entertainment Editor

ith students walking the hallways dressed up as characters from movies like Peter Pan, Mean Girls, and Clueless, the aura of school spirit was rampant on this Blockbuster-themed Tuesday. Sophomore Kristy Navarro, who was experiencing her second ever spirit week at Charter, was as excited as ever. She said, “I was way more pumped for this year’s spirit week compared to the last. Since I was a freshman before, it was more awkward for me to dress up, but now my friends and I are more comfortable coming to school in costumes,” she said in her Baby Driver themed ensemble.

Navarro, who was dressed in a denim jacket over a black and white striped turtleneck paired with a mustard-colored skirt, was inspired by the popular movie Baby Driver, which came out early in 2017, for this year’s Movie Tuesday. Along with her friend, sophomore Megan Fraga, who dressed as the “Baby” to Navarro’s “Debora,” the two developed a creative outfit. “I came up with the idea the night before Tuesday, and even though it was really last minute, I’m glad our clothes came out really well put together,” said Fraga.

These friends truly took a current movie and incoorporated it into the spirit week theme, showing their school, and cinematic, spirit.

Serena Somuah

JUNIOR

SENIOR

Muriel Morales

Swati Kumar

Andres Perez

Technology Editor

Staff Writer

was extra special for junior Muriel Morales who found a chance to embrace her love for the movies, shows, and drama.

“I want to be a singer, actress, and dancer, and my goal is to be in Broadway shows, TV, and movies,” exclaimed Muriel. “ Tuesday let me express and show everything I like as well as all of my interests as an artist!”

For her costume, Muriel and her friends, Ariann Zurita, Stephanie Gomez, Serena Somberg, Shayne Tyrell, Leanna Basanta, Florencia Azcurra, Sofia Azcurra, and Kaylin Hernandez, took on the cast of Stranger Things, the incredibly popular and thrilling Netflix original drama.

Muriel was dressed up as Eleven due to her love for the creative, original character and her style of clothing. Her all-time favorite show, Stranger Things, incorporates everything she likes: the 80s era style in clothing, homes, and everyday life as well as the science fiction genre. This gave her and her friends the idea to embrace their love for the show and dress up as characters from it during spirit week. Moreover, Muriel feels a connection with Eleven because of their very similar qualities and personalities.

Though Blockbuster Tuesday was especially unique for Muriel and many other students at PPCHS, this junior and other Jags truly appreciate and savor spirit week every year.

For Muriel, Broadway Tuesday, and spirit week, is not just about dressing up. It’s about expressing your identity to your school and embracing who you are.

shows. For Blockbuster Tuesday, Senior Serena Somuah pulled of the outfit of Dijonay Jones from the favored Disney show, The Proud Family, and she couldn’t have done it any better.

Serena, along with some friends, had the bright idea to bring back the iconic television show that pulled in all kids of any age, The Proud Family. The idea was sparked last year when Serena’s friend and dance teammate, Kendall Truitt, was preforming a dance routine, and the image of Zoey, a character from the show, popped in Serena’s mind. It’s been history ever since, and the character has stuck with Kendall. Serena was later compared to Dijonay Jones, and the idea was cemented in their minds. Serena preached about how similar she and her character are. “Both of us are the type of person where we don’t take no for an answer and when we see something we want, we go after it,” she said. They knew they had to pull off these characters for Broadway Tuesday. Eventually Kendall and Serena found people to portray the other characters. The outfits were loved by everyone, and Serena couldn’t agree more. She said, “I was amazed by how my outfit came out. I really felt like Dijonay and I absolutely loved it. Spirit week has to be one of the best times of the school year so far.”

Serena Somuah has made the most of her senior year and she isn’t holding back. The Proud Family will be remembered throughout PPCHS as one that incorporated the students, and characters, well in to Spirit Week.

The fun and excitement of Spirit Week continued on Broadway Tuesday - PPCHS’ at- Broadway Tuesday brought out the creative side in many of the PPCHS students. Evtempt at bringing out the stars and characters students watch and love. This particular day erywhere you looked, you saw stunning outfits and mirror images of famous people and

Photos By: Andres Alfonso

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Student Life

Students’ Identities Stre Swati

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even ethnicities, 195 countries, 6209 languages, and 7.442 billion people make up th planet. In Charter, our own microcosm of the world, the campus gleamed in various and through its Spirit Week, students from various places of the globe came together to celebr This day truly shines a spotlight on the richness of Charter’s greatly diversified commun first form a level of understanding about one another in order to facilitate collaboration an Junior Alina Le, from Vietnam, showed up to school in a traditional dress called “ao da refugees from the war. For her, this day has given students a chance not only to express wh our students in our school. “I believe we should all learn about our ethnic background bec diversity brings color to the world. Not only in our school, but in every place we go we sh Therefore, I believe that in today’s world we need to show how all ethnicities have attribu Wednesday morning, the campus swarmed with students and the flags of their countries clothing from various countries was also worn by students, including the colorful salwar own Founding Fathers.

“Our school has never been brighter. You see so many people wearing flags, clothing, Ashish Sathya who is from India. “I personally learned new things about my friends. This In addition to a placing a spotlight on individuality, World Wednesday gave students an o message of peace and brotherhood is almost vital. A sense of cultural unity should be emb “I think it is extremely important to have a day where everyone in school can celebrate t case and be proud of where you come from,” said sophomore Ara Johnson, who celebrat cape, painting the flags on her cheeks, wearing Islamic jewelry to match her Persian side, Ara expresses that her culture and religion is constantly on the other end of xenophobia her, this day was an opportunity to combat social ills and common misconceptions about I’m from does not define who I am as a person, even though I believe my country is put in points,” she said.

Senior Goodness Okwaraji, who is from Nigeria, also took advantage of World Wednesd day’s world as black people are heavily discriminated against not only in America but also us so much,” states Goodness. “By wearing my traditional clothing, it was my way of hol I will always have pride in where I’m from.”

For Goodness and the rest of Charter’s Class of 2018, this day and this week is not only m almost bittersweet experience for many of them who are eagerly utilizing this last opportu as it is surreal. It’s my last Spirit Week of high school- my last year of high school. Our sc Week is the most self-expressive week of the year, and because it’s my last of high scho unlike other years, I’m going to do something every day I can and show how I feel to the As Goodness put it, Spirit Week is truly expressive, but this year, World Wednesday takes as well as the unity of our PPCHS community. “A day in school celebrating heritage remin As educated individuals, it is our duty to establish a harmonious environment in which an of unity fostered on days like these. Serving the purpose of education, school is the perf people around them. In truth, all people truly have is each other so embrace and celebrate aware it’s a small world after all!

Photos By: Nicholas Ahmad, Maya Cabre

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engthen Charter’s Unity

Student Life

Kumar

logy

Editor

he place we can all call home- making Earth an extremely dynamic and culturally diverse d vibrant colors blending together among the school’s diverse students. Officially halfway rate their heritage on World Wednesday. nity, bringing about a unified pride in each individual’s culture and heritage. Students must nd cooperation as well as acceptance and respect. ai”, a straw hat, and a bamboo fan. Her parents were born and raised in Vietnam and were ho they are as a person, but has also given other students a chance to notice diversity among cause it is important for everyone to appreciate what makes them who they are. Culture and hould be able to recognize that all races and culture are beautiful and deserve recognition. utes that make them beautiful and equal,” she said. s draped over themselves and wearing soccer jerseys from their home teams. Traditional rs of India, Bangladesh, and Pakistan as well waistcoats and stockings of America’s very

and even bringing food to show who they are and where they are from,” states freshman s day does show everyone who you are as a person.” opportunity to make a statement about the discrimination in our current society in which a braced in all levels, starting from our school and stretching to the whole world. their heritages. Many cultures are extremely underrepresented, and today is a day to showted her unique Swedish and Iranian origin today by wearing the flags of the countries as a , and putting on a Viking helmet to match her Nordic side. a and racism being one coming from a Muslim majority and Middle Eastern country. For t where she is from by simply showing people that she is just like everyone else. “Where n a way worse light than reality because of modern media and common chauvinistic view-

day to show pride in her culture, and most importantly, her black heritage. “In to o around the world, it’s very easy to feel discouraged and wonder why people seem to hate lding my head high and signifying that I am not ashamed to be black, that no matter what,

memorable because of its creative and fun-filled themes and days, but also because it is an unity to show their school spirit as students in PPCHS. “This spirit week is not as emotional chool has proven to me that it’s not lame to feel school spirit; I have every reason to. Spirit ool, I’m going to do my absolute best to showcase what PPCHS means to me. Therefore, best of my ability,” said Goodness. s first place as the most unique day-one in which everyone can celebrate their individuality nds people that America is a melting pot of many different cultures,” says junior Maney Wu. ny cultural discrimination will not be tolerated. PPCHS should take advantage of the sense fect place for students to learn to be more open minded, accepting, and at peace with the people’s diversities. As Disney likes to put it, there’s so much we share that it’s time we’re

erea, Aijah

Harper,

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Eric Hernandez

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Tacky Tourists T

Student Life

Ainsley McC

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Student Life

s the beloved and much anticipated spirit week continues, Tacky Tourist Thursday to of leis. A mix and match of vibrant colors and Hawaiian shirts caught the eyes of any stu excitement leading up to Friday’s school spirit day.

When walking up to the River of Grass theatre in the morning, a popular hangout spot for the box with his well thought out collection of tacky items. Throughout the day, Spencer H who loves spending days at the beach, this theme was the perfect way to express his school zinc on their noses, straw hats, cameras strung around their necks, and larges maps made cherry on top. Everyone would come up to me as I sat on the steps and ask to take pictures on a tropical vacation.

While Spencer was relaxing mid-school day, senior Joey Tinghitella had gathered an ecle memorable of all… a big flower belt made of large sheets of bright, multi-colored tissue pap like today’s theme because it gave people a chance to dress like they’re from somewhere el he said. Being a part of Student Government Association, Joey loves to be involved in the sc While Joey and Spencer interpreted today’s theme as beachy, freshman Victoria Pellon de t-shirt along with a pair of pink reflective sunglasses. “Today was probably one of the mos people dressed,” said Victoria. Her and her group of friends can’t wait for the next three ye vibe, junior Tamara Valencia found it appropriate to dress as a Sawgrass Malls shopper. Com the tacky tourist shoppers often found around Sawgrass Mills mall, although she says “brin around their suitcase, looking as if ready to take flight to another place at any moment. Uni Taking a whole different spin on today’s theme was junior Christopher Prasad, who dresse “I picked this outfit out because Waldo’s everywhere. You just can’t see him. I thought that a lot in previous years, so I decided to do it.” Complete with the red striped shirt and blue lucky enough to notice another student dressed as Waldo as well!

For many students, today’s theme was popular because they were able to use items alrea tackiness by wearing long white socks and black slides, along with an oversized tropical sh movies. She said, “My friends were looking forward to today because they actually were a like today’s theme because it relates to what a lot of us do when we travel.” The crew cut s more than that! With pep rally just around the corner, Tacky Tourist Thursday was a classi Charter on this day, igniting a sense of school spirit to carry on to Friday.

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Photos By: Andres Alfonso, Nicholas Ahmad, Aryiel Bryant, Maya Cab

Take on Thursday

Cormick

e

Student Life

Editor

ook over the school in full force, complete with zinc covered noses, beach chairs, and plenty udent, teacher, or administrator walking the halls throughout the day and created a sense of

many students throughout the day, all eyes were drawn to one students who went outside of Hautrive could be found relaxing on the steps in his navy blue beach chair. For him, a junior l spirit. He and his friends were proud of the length they went to embody this spirit day. The them see like the tackiest of all tourists. “Everyone loved my chair. It was almost like the s,” he said. In between classes, Spencer would set up his chair and act as if he was relaxing

ectic mix of his tackiest items to wear, including a lei, fashionable paradise shades, and most per. Joey is a true spirit week connoisseur, and he loves going all out for each day’s theme. “I lse while also looking a little crazy. It was such a fun day overall, which I’m pleased about,” chool and its activities, and spirit week is one activity that he has no shame in participating in. ecided to base her outfit off of Miami tourists. She sported a Bubba Gump Shrimp company st fun days because everyone went all out with their outfits and it was really fun seeing how ears of spirit week that they will get to experience. While Victoria was channeling her Miami mplete with a suitcase and bags from Sephora, Pink, and Forever 21, Tamara truly embodied nging a suitcase to school is a struggle!” Several other students could also be seen dragging ique accessories like these really made certain students stand out. ed up as the famous Waldo of “Where’s Waldo?” with his friend Hunter Fu. Christopher said, it was tacky enough for tourist day. It was also something that I didn’t see a lot of people do jeans, spotting them was not too difficult. As a matter of fact, Christopher and Hunter were

ady found in their closets. Sophomore Amanda Cooke-William made sure to emphasis her hirt and a fishing hat. To complete her look, she popped the lenses out of 3D glasses from the able to just pull items out of their closets to wear instead of having to go out and buy them. I socks and sandals theme was popular among students because what embodies a tacky tourist ic theme that everyone could embrace. Tackiness could definitely be seen long and far across

abrerea. Justin

Dourvetakis, Aijah Harper,

and

Eric Hernandez

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Wear Your Flag Wednesday

Lia Goodman

FRESHMAN

SOPHOMORE

Alyssa Infante

Matthew Hernandez

Sofia Azcurra

Staff Writer

Staff Writer

F reshman Alyssa Infante has only attended Pembroke Pines Charter High School for On Around the World Wednesday, many proud students stood out. One student in a few months, but that did not stop her from going all out in her first ever Spirit Week. particular stood out amongst the crowd with her black windbreaker, long black leather Every day this week, Infante has dressed up with the theme and showed her school spirit.

For World Wednesday, Infante dressed up in the colors of Cuba. Wednesday was Infante’s favorite day of Spirit Week so far because of what it means to her. “Although I was born and raised in the United States, Cuba is where my family is from. Cuba is in my blood and roots and I wanted to represent the country. I was able to dress up like this with some of my other friends who are also Cuban so it was really,” she said.

Spirit Week is always a very fun and entertaining time for all the students at Pines Charter whether it is their first year or last year. Luckily for Infante, it is her first year, and she will still be able to soak it all in. “I thought it was really cool to see what everyone wore for each day and I really enjoyed dressing up as well. My favorite day was definitely Wednesday because of what I wore and how everyone else represented their countries.

Spirit week was a lot better than expected because I didn’t think people would go all out but they proved me wrong. I can’t wait until next year for Spirit week!”

Andrea Vidal

pants, and Russian Matryoshka doll. Sophomore Lia Goodman took this day to show her off unique Moldavian culture, and she wore it like no one else could.

Although she was born in Florida, Lia’s heart truly lies within the charming and picturesque of Israel and Moldova Russia. “Although I would have liked to see people dress from where I was from, it was really nice having my own special background that was separate from everyone else’s,” said Goodman. Lia not only wanted to represent her countries, but her mother as well.

She dressed like her mother did while she was growing up in Russia, before it became the USSR, and before she moved to Israel. Goodman was beaming at the seams to show the rest of Charter her distinctive and well-thought outfit. “My mom was from Russia and for me to dress like her and be able to express her past through an outfit is so fascinating! It’s the only day I didn’t plan something with my other friends, but we did take tons of pictures together to show off our varied culture,” she said.

Her big windbreaker and Russian nesting doll separated her from all the jerseys and tied flags and when others asked, she knew she’d be telling an important story from a particularly remarkable part of the world.

SENIOR

JUNIOR

Tatianna Capellan

Florencia Azcurra Staff Writer

Brianna Butler

o one can ever get enough of spirit week. The thrill of being able to dress up with friends and show off elaborate costumes is never ending. This year there was an “Around the World Day.” Students could be seen representing their countries with pride and confidence. Among those students was junior Andrea Vidal. The PPCHS student chose Wednesday to represent her unique heritage and showcase her bold fashion choices.

Andrea is from both Spain and Peru. Her mother was born in Venezuela, but blood wise, her dad is Peruvian and her mom is Spanish. Not many have this combination of heritage, so when Andrea got the chance to show her special and distinct blood line, she jumped at this chance. “A lot of my friends are Peruvian so I did see a little bit of Peruvian representation, and I definitely saw a few people wearing Spanish jersey’s and jackets around school,” says Andrea.

Andrea wore a unique outfit on Wednesday to show the love of her heritage. With her fishnet tights, black boot heels, Spanish jacket and a Peruvian jersey, Andrea was serving amazing looks with her bold fashion statement. The junior stood out amongst crowds of students that day and purposely wanted to stand out so people could see her distinct bloodline. Since “Around the World Wednesday” was a time to be different from everyone else, Andrea planned this day for herself, without her group of friends. Andrea enjoyed Wednesday more than any other day and was seen representing her countries with pride and happiness.

Staff Writer

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pirit Week is here once more, with some fun and wacky themes to go along with it.

Wednesday’s theme was “Around the World,” where students were able to dress up and showcase their cultures and home countries. This theme was able to show just how diverse Charter truly is. There were many different cultures intertwined, and it was exciting to see all the creative outfits everyone had come up with.

For senior Tatianna Capellan, this was her last year doing Spirit Week. Tatianna chose to wear a long dress with a black cardigan to go along with it. The dress had been adorned with the colors of the Jamaican flag: black, green, and yellow. This is her mother’s home country. “The black is used to represent the creativity of the people, the yellow is used to represent the people’s natural wealth, and the green is used to represent the color of the land,” she said. The extensive knowledge shows just how important this country is to her, and gives insight as to why she chose this dress in particular.

“I feel as if dressing up as your culture is important, and I believe knowing your roots is a way to show your honor and loyalty to that country.” In Tatianna’s perspective, it had been more than just a normal dress down day. To her, Wednesday demonstrates something much more than that, and gives her pride about her country.

Photos By: Andres Alfonso

Tacky Tourist Thursday

Meril Manoj

FRESHMAN

SOPHOMORE

Sophia Reynoso

Sophia Cortes

Paolo Barrera

Staff Writer

Features Editor

Thursday was Tacky Tourist Thursday, where the students got to dress up in loud trop- For Tacky Tourist Thursday, the class of 2020 was more than active in participating. ical shirts, wear brightly colored fanny packs probably stuffed with leftover Halloween Through the limited time on the high school study day, sophomore Meril Manoj decided candy, and sported wacky, tacky tourist hats. This was freshman Sophia Reynoso’s first Spirit Week in high school, and this was the day she was looking forward to the most.

Reynoso, sporting a navy blue tropical shirt with some khaki shorts, and tying her look together with bright blue fanny pack, explained with a laugh that Tacky Thursday was “the one thing my friends and I can actually plan correctly for Spirit Week.” Reynoso said that dressing up as a tacky tourist was also a fun and silly way to bring her group friends closer together.

She admits that at times she felt a little weird in her costume since she “was wearing a fanny pack and it didn’t fit right,” but overall, felt “really confident because that was my favorite spirit week day [and] it was really exciting to wear a tacky Hawaiian shirt.”

Reynoso expresses that seeing her friends all together in their silly costumes made it all one hundred times better.

After all, that’s what Spirit Week is all about! Sure you get to raise your Jag spirit, but at the end of it all, Spirit Week is just a fun time to forget about the dress code, wear something you normally would not wear, and the most important of all, and have fun with your friends.

to take her time to put a spin on the theme.

She pulled out all the moves, wearing a pink floral top and a pink sun hat to match. In typical tacky fashion, she also dressed her feet up in a tourist-like combination of gray socks and sandals. In addition, she even brought an old school video camera to complete the outfit. “I rarely have the opportunity to wear clothes that are more my style,” said Meril.

“So when I planned my outfit for [Thursday], I knew I had to go all out.”

In preparation for the day, she opted not to expend energy on planning an outfit for Wednesday. “I had to spend more of my attention for [Tacky Tourist Day],” jokes Meril.

“And I had some clothes for [Thursday] that I didn’t want to get dirty [on Wednesday].”

Her playful nature matched the vibrancy of her outfit, fitting the theme seamlessly.

Like many others, Meril took advantage of Spirit Week’s themes and free dress down days. She used the platform of a fun filled week to embrace a little of her goofy, tacky side.

With Friday left to express her flavorful school spirit, she definitely saved the best for last.

Kayla Kelley

JUNIOR

SENIOR

Tamera Valencia

Sarah Barrocas

M

Evan Samuels

D

Managing Editor - Web

uring Spirit Week, students have the opportunity to celebrate and express their school pride with their friends or simply by themselves. PPCHS students tend to go all out on Spirit Week, and for junior Tamara Valencia this seemed especially true. On Tacky Tourist Thursday, Tamara wore clothes inspired by one of her aunts.

The day before Tacky Tourist Thursday, Tamara didn’t know what to wear. She said, “I wouldn’t think I’ve ever been a tacky tourist before, but in the point of view of the natives and wherever I travel, I’m probably the tackiest tourist they’ve laid their eyes on.” But when her aunt came from Venezuela with “a suitcase in each arm and a good ten shopping bags,” her heart was set on dressing up as her aunt. She added, “It was the perfect description of a tourist you’d see in Sawgrass or Aventura. I sent a picture of my outfit to my aunt and she could not stop laughing.”

Even though Tamara shined on Thursday, she said that “Around the World Wednesday” was her favorite day of Spirit Week. She added, “It was satisfying to the eye to see so many flags not only around the school, but also amongst my friend group.”

This year's Spirit Week was a success that paved the way for a tradition that will keep getting better for PPCHS.

Editor-In-Chief

any were seen wearing oversized floral shirts, fanny packs, Crocs, sunglasses, and visors on Thursday's Tacky Tourist, however few were dressed in alternative versions of the traditional ensemble; senior Kayla Kelley was amongst the select few who approached this cherished spirit week day with a wildly different interpretation.

With the hopes of trying to “save” the tourists that visited the attraction of PPCHS Thursday morning, Kayla Kelley dressed up as a lifeguard. Wearing black Nike Free Runs, a pair of black spandex bottoms, and a fire engine red lifeguard t-shirt, Kayla accessorized with a black whistle around her neck, a red fanny pack, reflective sunglasses, and a pink cap to complete her overall look.

"I always see people who come to Florida getting the Miami Beach lifeguard jacket and so I figured I would be a lifeguard since all the tourist love the jacket," stated Kayla.

Kayla drew inspiration for her outfit from her real life place of work, stating, "Working at the Pines YMCA Aquatic Center has been an extremely rewarding job for the last two years I've been working there. Not only do I help teach kids safety around water but also how to swim as well."

With a natural affinity towards the pool, Kayla aimed to exhibit her interest through her costume. As an avid swimmer, Kayla has been swimming competitively for PPCHS since the start of her senior year. As a member of the girls swim team, Kayla just recently qualified to race in the relay at regionals.

Though she wasn't dressed as a tourist, Kayla Kelley was most definitely still on duty, saving her peers from the craziness that is Tacky Tourist Thursday.

Photos By: Andres Alfonso

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The Pep Befo

Student Life

Paolo

T

Featur

he whole school can feel its weight. Every student walking through the school gates and This Friday morning air is thicker than any other Friday dew, but not because of the cooler a most exciting part of the week: Fear the Paws Friday.

Felt everywhere is the heavy aroma of school spirit, accented by the fragrance of Pep Rally grins of anticipation are clear to see. Students are parading the school this morning draped in an occasional jacket to combat the November chill. Eager to get through the first five classes paw print on my face with the help of my friend [on the swim team],” said swim team membe amount of paint could cut down the time until Friday’s main event.

As the day gets warmer and warmer, the hype does the same. From students to participant every sports clique. From the models in Fashion Club to the dancers on the Dance Team, ex gym floor, excitement came in the form of pride from wearing their jersey all day. The footbal added to their schedule. “I was in the middle of putting in my lunch number when I saw footb Wu. For the students who have secured their seat in the audience, their excitement came as h until they could get their wrist band to the event.

In the background of the entire day was the backbone of Pep Rally itself: SGA. Their blood, s instructing, and organizing people around the school. The tedious task of doing so had memb the entire week,” said SGA member senior Sonia Khan. “But it was a blast [running Spirit W their hands, excitement came to them in the form of determination towards producing a great Thanks to the awkwardly constructed class schedule, it is around 4th period that students elation had hit its peak, bringing about restlessness for the homecoming court hoping to win attendees were the first timers! While experienced students had the “luxury” of referring to a through their minds. When and where would they go? Who and what should be expecting? E ask all my friends on the track team what was going on and what to do [during the day],” con Alas, every watch and phone clock struck noon. Wrist bands of different colors were hande where they had to be, as well as the groups of nervous and prettied performers. Sports teams Newbies and experienced students alike were waiting to take their seats in a crowded jaguar beat of music and movement. “The moment people started walking in by the dozens, I could Finally, the beginning of the greatest end was in play. The grand finale for a royally school to come, it doesn’t get better than this; a dynamic day of different stories culminating to an e

Photos By: A

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ore The Rally

o

Student Life

Barrera

ures

Editor

nd every teacher setting up their classroom acknowledges the new presence on the premises. autumn temperatures. For the end of a fun filled Spirit Week only marks the beginning of the

y hype and the sight of the weekend on the horizon. The sun may not be up yet, but the bright n all types of school colors, wearing spirit shirts and painted handprints of various sizes, with s of the day, the painted and peppy students skip happily to their first class. “I had painted the ber Cristina Arguelles. “The moment I got to school, I asked my friend to do it.” However, no

nts, the excitement towards the end of the day is flowing through every circle of friends and xcitement bubbled in their stomach. For the student athletes enjoying the Pep Rally from the all players, especially, got to flaunt their jerseys during a performance in the cafeteria that was tball players [on the Varsity team] start dancing and singing,” laughed onlooker junior Maney hopes for laughs and screams of joy. Needless to say, every student was counting the minutes

sweat, and tears culminated to a rigorous itinerary. Their day consisted of preparing, assisting, bers moving, checking, rechecking, and stressing. “I was constantly trying to get things done Week events] with my SGA family.” With other people on their minds and plenty of jobs in at fall Pep Rally. s can be heard crying out: “Pep Rally is so close, yet so far.” By that time, anticipation and n a sash, and the band members practicing their music. Particularly antsy among the awaiting a mental list of things to look forward to, the Pep Rally rookies had a list of questions zipping Excitement to them came as a healthy serving of anxiety and insurmountable hype. “I had to onfesses junior Nicolaus Sarbello. “Because I didn’t really know what to look forward to.” ded out accordingly, with the first batch of early visitors being dispatched. SGA officers were s huddled with their teammates, experiencing a hype that doesn’t come from playing a game. r gym. The volume inside grew with the sounds of conversations and squeals, mixed with the d barely hear my own music,” said junior Sebastian Sevilla, who DJ’d the event. l spirited Spirit Week had had just begun. For the people who were waiting anxiously for this explosive event, is as picture perfect as a Friday can get.

: Aijah Harper

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Student Life

Charter Puts Some ‘ Ariana Ortiz &

A

Staff Writer &

s a sea of students swarmed into the gym for the annual fall pep rally hosted by, Joey Tinghitella and Ibene Long The 2017 fall pep rally, which was inspired by the Phantom of the Opera, was filled with uncontrollable laughter and roar welcome as all the proceeds would be going to the Stefano Dioguardi Scholarship Fund. SGA organized all the festivities Once everyone was seated, sophomore Ziana Capellan kicked off the festivities with her extraordinary performance of the audience in awe. Up next were our very own PPCHS cheerleaders, who leaped into the gym with their contagious sm flips, kicks, and stunts that had the audience’s eyes glued to the performers. Junior Maria Rojas who has been on the che bonding experience for the team.”

The crowd was then introduced to the fall sports teams including the new Pines Charter bowling team, girls and boys swi and varsity volleyball team. The teams hyped up the crowd and engaged in quirky activities for everyone to enjoy. Girls’ more, golf team member Spencer Hautrive, threw out a few golf team shirts to some lucky students in the crowd. As he c Interjecting the acts, SGA set up a few team spirited games that sparked the competitive side of the athletes that partici had to join hands to pass a hula hoop from their heads down to their feet and pass it to their teammates without unlinki For many of these players, this will be their final fall pep rally here at PPCHS. “I’m glad I’ve been a part of the soccer team when I graduate,” says senior Michael Reid. Each team, and the crowd alike, had a great time with the activities.

Latin Dance Team left their hearts on the dance floor while they danced away to Romeo Santos’s “Eres Mia” followed by proud.

The majorettes carried on the excitement with their energetic routine where they simultaneously twirled baton and dan camo, the crowd could certainly see and hear them. Starting off dancing to an upbeat intro song “Lip Gloss” and then tran One of the most highly awaited acts of pep rally is always fashion club, where suddenly the audience travels to Paris Fashi job putting together black and white ensembles that scream high end. Their walks were beautifully executed with eleganc After voting this week, the crowd was eager to hear the homecoming court winners. Each nominee was escorted to the cen freshman Stephanie Hernandez and Michael Rueda were the first to be crowned. Madison Lopez and Juan Flores won for King and Queen which will be announced at this year's homecoming dance.

Like always, dance team came with a performance that brought the house, or in this case the gym, down. The noise level for dance was clearly visible as they performed. No one could deny the immense amount of talent on the stage. New to the to perform and be a part of a team that truly feels like a family.” Dance team’s act got everyone in the school spirit as spir The fall pep rally rounded up with an exciting performance from our very own PPCHS drum line! Their classic beats al said, “I love drumline, it’s my favorite part of pep rally. It gets the crowd so hyped up and all of us have the best time seeing of one wearing a banana costume! As he broke out of the drum the crowd was in shock, to see the incredible talent Gust of all the student here at PPCHS. Overall, this year's pep rally was worthy of five stars! Every student attending definitely felt a sense of excitement and pr in December.

Photos by:Aijah H

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‘Pep’ in Their Rally

Student Life

Rachel Rivera Lifestyle Editor

gjohn, they were immediately greeted by the incredibly skilled PPCHS band that never fails to raise the spirit in our halls. aring cheers so loud they could be heard all the way from the S building! The tickets were $3 minimum, but donations were s and did a remarkable job transforming our school gym into the “Phantom of the O-Paw-Ra.” of the National Anthem, accompanied by ASL signers Kendall Truit, Ashley White, Jada Hinds, and Janiya Russell, leaving smiles that had the whole audience at the edge of their seats for their performance. Their routine was a mixture of amazing heer team for 3 years now said, “Pep rally is the best part of the cheerleading season. We always have a great time and it’s a

wim, girls and boys cross country, girls and boys’ varsity soccer, junior varsity and varsity football, and the girls’ junior varsity ’ varsity soccer tumbled out of their comfort zone and performed an unforgettable cheer routine. To excite the crowd even circled the gym, the crowd was beaming with excitement and hoped they were chosen. cipated. The crowd favorite consisted of eight players from a given team that engaged in a hula hoop contest in which they king hands. The boys and girls varsity team played against one another as well as the varsity volleyball and football players. m throughout all of high school. Moments like this with my team when we get to joke around are something I’ll never forget

y a pop number to the song “Vivir Mi Vida” by Marc Anthony. Latin Dance team definitely made every Latino in the crowd

anced. Following the majorettes, the step team marched out with a riveting performance. Even though they came out in all ansitioning to music made only using their hands and feet, made for a performance the audience could not look away from. hion Week and watches as models strut down the runway. Oh wait, those are PPCHS students! Fashion club did an amazing nce and class. Fashion club will most definitely be remembered as one of the best acts of this year’s fall pep rally. enter of the court by a fashion club member and awaited their crowning. Starting off Joey and Ibene announced the winners, or sophomores, and Ziara Nunez and Chad Epps were crowned as the junior winers. All that was left was the curiosity of the

el went through the roof, as Dance Team took the floor and made it theirs. The fierceness of their motions and their passion he team, freshman Gaby Restrepo said, “Dance team is something I want to be a part of my entire time in high school. I love irit week came to an end. always fill the crowd with excitement and raise everyone's school spirit. Sophomore Juan Florez, who plays the tenor drums, ng everyone smile while we play.” While drumline was banging away on their drums, freshman Gustavo Salama jumped out stavo has in breakdancing. Breakdancing isn’t something you see every day and this performance embodies the uniqueness

pride spread around the gym throughout the hour of pep rally that will hopefully be carried to PPCHS’ homecoming dance

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Harper & Nico Amad

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Student Life

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Student Life Photos by: Aijah Harper & Andy Alfonso

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Fear the Paws Friday

Valentina Orduy

FRESHMAN

SOPHOMORE

Ariana Echemendia

O

Alexa Infante

Isabella Munoz

Managing Editor- Content

Staff Writer

n Friday, November 3rd, the cheers coming from the PPCHS gym echoed loudly throughout the entire campus. Standing proudly in the crowd was freshman Ariana Echemendia.

With a jag print on her face reflecting her true jaguar pride, Echemendia closed off a successful spirit week by participating in pep rally. “My first spirit week experience was pretty fun because I got to match with my friends and get creative. I was able to take a lot of pictures and make a lot of memories,” she said.

Instead of dressing up on Friday, Ariana dressed down sporting her soccer jersey and her uniform shorts. Ariana was one of the few freshman who was actually able to participate in the madness. Along with the girls’ soccer team, Ariana walked out in style to “4am” by 2chainz, and even performed a cheer led by seniors Ashlyn Correa and Morgan Robertson. “Pep rally was exciting for me because when they announced the team, we ran out. It was a really cool moment. I wish more students were able to attend so they can share our school spirit.” A week before pep rally, Ariana and her friends went to SGA during lunch and payed $3 for their entrance. The expense didn’t bother them because they knew they would be donating to a great cause. The money collected for pep rally goes to the Forza Stefano foundation in honor of Stefano Diogaurdi, the late PPCHS alum. Pep rally is all around an extremely special event. The best part about it for Ariana, is that she has 3 more years to celebrate her PPCHS school spirit!

S tunning in her long, flowing, black dress, sophomore Valentina Orduy owned the stage Friday afternoon at our Fall Pep Rally. Throughout the week, she let her school spirit show

by dressing out on each and every spirit day. However, she claims Friday was her favorite because that is when she was truly able to shine as a model during pep rally.

Her interest with fashion began when she was a little girl, but more specifically modeling. From a young age she has been flying to Colombia. There she would always gain a golden tan, and complementing her strawberry blonde hair, she felt it was only right to get the clothes to match. From then on out she fell in love with the thought of trying on different types of clothing and showing the world. As a little girl, she would throw her own “Fashion Week” in her living room to show to her family. Thus, her love for fashion was born.

Although just having joined Fashion Club this year, Valentina was able to snatch a spot on the runway. “I was so surprised when I made the set list. You would’ve thought it’d be easy to keep a straight face while walking down the line. But there’s also the best to the music that you have to keep up to, and also when you have the whole school cheering and taking pictures how can you not smile,” shares Valentina. She was just one student who was elated to show her passion for fashion during pep rally, and she definitely let it show that she has school spirit.

Gabriela Torres

O

SENIOR

JUNIOR

Maria Rojas-Jesus

Ainsley McCormick

Evan Samuels

Student Life Editor

Managing Editor - Web

n Fear the Paw Friday, the last day of the much loved spirit week, students got the chance to show their school pride and participate in pep rally. Junior Maria Rojas-Jesus was one student who took full advantage of this day. Maria is on the cheer team, and has been practicing day in and day out to perfect her pep rally performance.

Throughout the day, Maria could be seen in her cheer outfit with her makeup done beautifully. All day, the conversation of cheering at pep rally could be heard by anyone near Maria, showing her school spirit was more than just a uniform. “I like cheering for school because it gives me a chance to hang out with my friends and become more involved in school,” she said.

Throughout the weeks leading up to pep rally, Maria couldn’t help but encourage everyone to attend pep rally and cheer her and the school on. Her school spirit shown throughout Friday, and definitely showed at pep rally as she flew throughout the air, performing tricks that made the attending students excited for homecoming and sad that the week was coming to an end.

“I love my school so much. I think everyone should be grateful we go to a school that wants the best for us.” Maria definitely showed everyone that she is proud to be a student at Charter on Friday.

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abriela Torres is all about school pride. She is a senior now, but ever since freshman year she has dedicated herself into making a difference for Charter. She joined the Student Government Association early in high school, and from there on she has never stopped working. She has put in endless hours that eventually lead her into being elected as the Student Government Association’s President.

When Torres initially joined SGA, she said that she wasn’t “expecting to fall in love with it” the way she did. She added, “When I first filled out the application, my intentions were to simply become more involved and meet new people.” She said, “Being in SGA has definitely helped me become more involved in school activities. You can never slowdown in SGA. You always have to put your foot on the gas and always think about the next event to plan.”

Torres dedicates herself to her school pride and she believes being the SGA President is what really encourages her. She said, “The fact that I am SGA gives me a behind the scene view on work that goes into organizing events and activities for the student body. So not only do I go to SGA events, but also most of the events that other clubs organize because I know the hard work that goes into it.” Torres’s hard work and school pride will definitely be remembered by many Charter students.

Photos By: justin Dourvetakis

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