The CHAT Holiday Issue 2017-2018 Volume # 4. A season to give back

The Holidays:

A Time to Seek Out Ways to Make Life Better for Those Around Us.

For more on Madison White’s battle with cancer , turn to page 34 in News...

Sarah Barrocas Editor -in-Chief Alexa Infante - Content Sofia Alfonso - Layout Managing Editors Chatter Daily News Evan Samuels Web Managing Editor Ariana Ortiz - Content Sofia Alfonso - 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 Editor Rachel Rivera Lifestyle Editor

Student Life:

Ainsley McCormick Community Outreach Justin Dourvetakis- The CHAT Eric Hernandez - Web Photo Editors Justin Pierce Graphics Editor

There’s A New Hope In Town Mr. G’s Folksy Past

Content Staff: Florencia Azcurra, Sofia Azcurra, Brianna Butler, Sophia Cortes, Matthew Hernandez, Janae McDonnough, Frank Mora, Isabella Munoz, Arianna Ozuna, Andres Perez, Amanda Rodriguez Layout Staff: Sofia Alfonso, Sarah Barrocas, Brittany Evelyn, Alexa Infante, Rebekah Jacob, Caroline Kadir, Monica Lozada, Ainsley McCormick

By the Grade:

Photography Staff: Andres Alfonso, Nicholas Ahmad, Aryiel Bryant, Maya Cabrera, Shaniah Cox, Justin Dourvetakis, Aijah Harper, Eric Hernandez GRAPHIC STAFF: Jasmin Bleus, Taylor Causey, Rosa Gomez,

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

Spotted Jags in the Jungle (10th grade) Full- time Student, Part- time Model (12th grade)

Features: Does Charter’s Lineage Live on?

Charter’s Game of Thrones

Clubs & E

Pg

Electives:

Student Life: Pg 14

16 Clubs & Electives:

Sports: Pg 22

Technology:

Kevin Garcia’s Spirit Lives on During Holiday Deason

A Merry- Techy Christmas

Ms. Kidd’s Final Act: The Show Must Go On

Changing in a Snap, Snapchat Updates its Software

Sports: Big Fish in a Small Pond Two Pitchers Lost to the Field (A Tribute to Roy Halladay and Jose Fernandez)

Entertainment:

Lifestyle: 2018 Horoscopes: New Year, New You Festive Treats and Holiday Sweets (Gingerbread Cookie & Brownies Recipe)

News:

Netflix Review: A “Stranger” Season Two

The Problems We Aren’t Hearing About As Yemen Fights for its Survival

Album Review: Heartbreak on a Full Moon

Sexual Misconduct Accusations Hit Hollywood

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Student Life CHARTER HIGH ACADEMIC TIMES

Bests of the Year...

Seniors vs. Seniors Spelling Bee

At the start of 2017, Charter students took part in the annual Seniors vs Seniors Spelling Bee at the Southwest Community Focal Center. Charter seniors spent the afternoon participating in a spelling bee against the seniors. Alumnus, Nadira Danticat came in second place following first place winner Lilliana Mazurek from the focal center.

Spring Pep Rally

Spring pep rally was a tropical event that nobody could forget. “Charter in Paradise” brought together the school with fashion club, dance team, step team, and more performing in this brightly colored Hawaiian themed event to boost school spirit. All of the money collected from pep rally was donated to Chris Alegria to help with his fight against brain cancer.

Senior Prom

There’s A New HOPE in Town Paolo Barrera

Sometimes it feels as if the school were a giant

Features Editor

science lab, with the guinea pigs being students at the mercy of whatever experiment and test is performed. The odd analogy leaves students questioning: What do you do when stress bubbling in your brain breaks your anxiety threshold? What can you say to the teacher that concocted the perfect recipe for this disaster? For Charter students, the mad scientist are less like Dr. Jekyll and more like Dr. Phil: equipped with an open mind and sturdy advice. There’s no “I” in team, though, in which the staff of the school is a unit meant to help one person: the student. On the topic of teams, there is one odd group that has grown just recently. Walking in to join the club is the new “H.O.P.E.” Club, not meant to be confused with the mandatory “H.O.P.E.” class and the comforting “Hope” sensation around school.

The new H.O.P.E. Club is a parallel of the teacher and administrator support team in the office. In Graphic By: Henry Severe collaboration with the Florida Initiative for Suicide Prevention (FISP), PPCHS has joined a new team of schools that also exercise the H.O.P.E. (Helping Overcome Problems Effectively) curriculum. According to administration, “The School Board of Broward County urged all schools to develop a HOPE club in response to the increase in deaths by suicide of teens across the nation.” In response to the call, Ms. Scott and Mrs. Moses created the H.O.P.E. Sunshine Club under their guidance. The duo debuted their first of their weekly meetings on November 14th, with the club’s members walking into room D221 at 2:05 on the dot. With a tight circle of 14 students in attendance, H.O.P.E.’s inaugural set of students went to work.

Taking in the new instructions, students were quickly informed of the club’s goal and mission. “We know teenagers are faced with so many struggles in and outside of school. All of you should have a place where you can be heard and given support by your own peers who are going through the same things,” says Mrs. Moses. “Knowing you are not alone is a very powerful thing.

Ultimately we want to create a school culture of kindness and acceptance.” After the first H.O.P.E. Club Tuesday, a sense of potential excitement was evident in everyone leaving D221.

With the past events in mind, it is important to take into account the future and present of the club. Currently, the club aims to provide a platform to support and educate students individually. Outside of specific experiences, the club hopes to equip leaders with constructive ways to support others and increase the use of efficient communication skills. Within the individual and group settings, the club builds a foundation built on “problem solving, coping, and leadership skills” while learning “new ways to manage stress effectively.” An environment where one can grow and feel safe is a gift not many students can brag about.

As for involvement with the school, don’t count the H.O.P.E. Club out. The creators hope to put in the “fun” in fundraisers, with plans to have activities that put the new club in the spotlight. At the end of the year, a “H.O.P.E. Hug-A-Thon” is in the works.

With mystery surrounding as to how it would work and what would happen, Mrs. Moses and Ms. Scott have more tricks up their sleeve. “The theme [for the Hug-A-Thon] will be a surprise,” smiles Ms. Moses.

Mr. Grijalva’s Folksy Past The class of 2017’s prom was unlike any other, with the theme revolving around the much beloved Wynwood at the Westin Fort Lauderdale Beach Resort. Throughout the night, the soonto-be graduates danced, sang, and took photos, enjoying every moment of their last few days as Charter seniors.

Mr. Jag: Male Beauty Pageant

Mr. Jag is the male beauty competition that is talked about every year. Aaron Ferrer was the man of the night who won the hearts of the judges and crowd, especially after dancing on stage with his mom, Spanish teacher Mrs. Ferrer. All of the contestant showed their personality during the night, giving the audience a deeper look into the life of these seniors.

2017 Spirit Week

Spirit week of the 2017-18 school year was thrown a little bit off after Hurricane Irma made its way through town, but SGA still planned five unique themes that students became excited to dress up as each day. Matching Monday, Broadway Tuesday, Around the World Wednesday, Tropical Thursday, and Fear the Paws Friday were the themes for this year’s spirit week.

Rachel Rivera Lifestyle Editor

Although currently a Pines Charter 10th grade World His-

tory teacher, Mr. Grijalva, also known as Mr. G, has had quite an interesting past. What started as simple volunteer time sparked a whole new interest and hobby for many years of Mr. Grijalva’s life.

For the past thirteen years Mr. Grijalva has been a history teacher at Pines Charter, but before teaching he had many other endeavors. While going to college in Las Vegas, Mr. Grijalva picked up an interest in starting his own radio show after spending time volunteering at the college radio station.

After lots of hard work and time, he ultimately went on to create his own company where he would both produce and do a radio program. His radio show was unlike ones we are used to, it has a unique flare of its own. Gearing away from the usual stations with pop music Mr. Grijalva’s radio program was done in complete Spanish and centered around Photo By: Andy Alfonso Latin American folk music and culture. “Mr. G sometimes talked about when he used to do radio and I always thought it was so cool and unexpected,” said junior Isabel Nunez. The show would air daily on the commercial radio station and a weekly show at the college station which remained following his graduation. The duration of the show lasted for 8 years before he moved and became more involved in production business.

The extent of his time in production included helping folk artist develop, land gigs, and represent groups and artists. This allowed him to even belong to a music group, even though it was unaccustomed to him, playing folksy South American percussion. Eventually he made the move to Miami and picked up his radio show for another year until moving away from radio and working for other businesses. “He seems like he has a real devotion to teaching and helping his students, it’s hard to imagine him doing something else,” said sophomore Justin Yara.

Back when Mr. Grijalva’s now graduated kids attended Pines Charter West Elementary, he would earn his parent volunteer hours by doing the ‘Meet the Masters’ program and teaching Spanish as a volunteer. Mr. Grijalva said, “Every time I went in the classroom I just had this feeling of comfort and being kind of at home.” When an opportunity opened up, he took it and 13 years later he is still teaching and says it is the “best thing I’ve ever done.” In spite of his passion for teaching Mr. Grijalva will always have an interest in folk music and Latin American culture, stemming from his radio show.

“He seems like he has a real devotion to teaching and helping his students, it’s hard to imagine him doing something else,” said sophomore Justin Yara

Student Life

Brandon Marches into the Big Apple

CHARTER HIGH ACADEMIC TIMES

Brittany Evelyn News Editor

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s Charter students began preparing for their Thanksgiving break, one in particular had something very special to look forward too. Junior Brandon Causing had been long awaiting this break since he received monumental news in the summer.

On Saturday, November 18, Brandon jetted off to New York to take part in the renowned Macy’s Day Parade. He was to join students from all around the country to play in the Macy’s Great American Marching Band.

Hearing about the opportunity from a Charter alum, Brandon, who plays the clarinet, decided to pursue the opportunity with great enthusiasm. “I heard about it through people talking about a person who was in the band before. I thought it was really interesting, so I wanted to give it a try.” Towards the end of March, he sent in an application followed by a video of him playing a solo. “I thought I had a pretty good chance of getting in because the application asked if I had been in any all state or all county bands, and I had made all county for four consecutive years and I made all state for two years,” he said. A couple months after submitting his application, Brandon finally received an acceptance letter in the mail.

To prepare for the parade, which is a three miles walk, Brandon ran two miles every day during the summer. In the weeks approaching the event, he amped up his plan by running to the gym every day and getting in another work out there. “This helped me get fit and build my stamina, but walking during the parade wasn’t that bad. Even though it was cold, the marching warmed us up and we had a lot of stops,” he said.

Brandon beamed with excitement and pride in the days leading up to his trip, especially because it was to be his first time in New York. As the seatbelt lights were turned off and the wheels touched down on the tarmac, Brandon found himself overflowing with elation. Upon arriving at the airport on Saturday afternoon, Brandon found everyone waiting for him, with a sign reading “Macy’s Great American Marching Band”. The group waited on all the participants to arrive, after which they went to the hotel. At the hotel, they all got to try on their costumes to make sure everything was in order for Thursday. New York City was buzzing with electricity, as the Macy’s Day Parade drew closer and closer. On their first day, Sunday, the group took to the city, touring all the popular spots, including the One World Trade Center. “We got to go all the way to the top of the One World Observatory, which was really cool because we could see the entire city and remember those lost in the 9/11 accident at the reflecting pools.” On Monday, the group had an all-day rehearsal. On the following day, they got the opportunity to do some more sightseeing, but had another rehearsal in the afternoon. Before going to rehearsal, the group was able to walk around Times Square on their own. Wednesday provided more opportunities to explore the city, before seeing the Broadway Musical School of Rock.

Thursday was the big day. It was the day of the parade. Getting ready for the main event, Brandon was filled with nervous anticipation as the moment he had been waiting for months had finally arrived. “We had to wake up at two a.m. to do one final run through at the venue. That morning it was so cold, it was in the forties,” Brandon says. The band played “Word Up” during the march, and a special holiday mashup at their performance at Herald Square. His nervousness disappeared, as the band struck their first cord and started down the path of the parade. Brandon started to bask in the thrill and attention from the crowd. After the three mile march, the band returned to the start of the parade where the floats were starting off. “We saw so many celebrities like Olivia Holt and Sabrina Carpenter, and we even waved to the people in the floats.” After the parade, they went to the Hard Rock for breakfast.

Once all the parade festivities had ended, the band went back to the hotel and ate a Thanksgiving lunch. That night, the close knit group had a special Thanksgiving dinner and dance.

Brandon left the next morning, Friday, around five a.m., carrying his precious memories with him. “I made so many friends I didn't think I would ever make. There were kids from all across the country, and they were all so cool. Going into this, I thought I wasn’t going to make any friends, but everyone was so nice and it was easy to make friends. They actually liked me and were really accepting towards me,” Brandon admits.

Brandon hopes to take part in the Macy’s Day Thanksgiving parade again next year, as they have an early application for participants who have previously played at the parade.

Brandon says, “I have no idea what I want to do in the future, but this experience really helps me to consider music as a possibility.”

The Thanksgiving Day Parade epitomizes what Brandon was truly thankful for this holiday - the memories made and experiences gained.

“I have no idea what I want to do in the future, but this experience really helps me to consider music as a possibility.”

As Seen on TV: Brandon can be seen playing the clarinet on the left of the screen.

Photo By: Brittany Evelyn

In the Big Apple: On route for the Macy’s Day Parade in New York City.

Donated By: Brandon Causing

Donated By: Brandon Causing

Leadership Role Change Leaves us Ready for Battle Roselle Curiel

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Former vice-principal Mrs. Battle now serves as the interim princiapal at PPCESEast Campus

Entertainment Editor

ight years ago, Mrs. Battle started out in Pembroke Pines Charter High as a psychology teacher in the social studies department. Fast forward and she had become the assistant principal of our school. Though some students solely recognize her as one of the administrators, Mrs. Battle has done many things for our students and school as a whole with all of her hard work: supervising the 11th grade classes, evaluating electives, being the head of school activities, and more.

Not only was she assistant principal, but she was also the activities director for Student Government Association, which meant she approved all projects, events, activities, and even poster boards or flyers that are hung around the school. She oversaw all school clubs, and coordinated meetings where all club presidents would meet. “Throughout the years, she has given us many creative ideas when we were stuck, and was the go-to person when we needed help,” said senior Lindsey Adams, former secretary for SGA. After being recognized for her efforts, Ms. Battle has moved on to East Campus, in which she has become the interim principal. “This is a big promotion for her,” said Mr. Bayer. As our school says goodbye to Ms. Battle, we welcome Ms. Velez as her replacement, who certainly has big shoes to fill! PPCHS would like to give a big thank you to Mrs. Battle for all she has done and wish her well.

Mrs. Velez has since resumed the position of Mrs. Battle.

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Student Life CHARTER HIGH ACADEMIC TIMES

A Gift that Keeps On Giving Evan Samuels Managing Editor - Web

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peration Christmas Child is every child’s wish – receiving a box full of trinkets and surprises for the holidays. It is run through an organization called Samaritan's Purse. Its main goal is to give aid to people in need, while also collecting boxes of toys for children who aren’t able to open boxes for the holidays. They have people all around the US participating in this event, and it gets better year after year.

Mrs. Perez, who is the Guidance Counselor for the juniors/sophomores, ran this event, and she can’t believe how this event took off. She said, “This was the best year so far. This is our third year doing it, and we were able to collect 128 shoe boxes. In previous years, I’ve done it with Mrs. Maycock and New Kids on the Block Club, but this year we didn’t have a club, so I decided to still run it and see how it would go, and we did great!” She added that this year she “put it out to not only teachers, but also to the whole student body and that’s the reason we were able to do so well.”

On top of donating toys to children in need, there is also a donut party for the homeroom that got the most boxes. This donut party is not the usual Dunkin Donuts party, but instead a Mojo Donuts donut party. Mrs Perez said, “I didn’t want to make it the usual Dunkin Donut prize, so I made it something better and more deserving because of how it is going towards such a great cause.” A special congratulations to Mrs. Taylor’s homeroom who donated 24 boxes and won the donut party. In second place was Mr. Fagen’s class with 16 boxes. Mrs. Chaiken and Mrs. Phelps classes followed.

Freshman Natalie Hernandez said, “This was my first year being able to participate in this event, and it was truly an amazing opportunity. I will definitely donate more boxes in the up and coming years.” Every contribution was much needed, and all of it went towards a great cause.

Senior Amanda Cabus said, “This is an event that just shows how great of a school Charter is. I hope next year every student donates at least one box in, so every child that didn’t get a box this year will definitely get one next year. It is truly an amazing feeling to give back when you have the chance to do it.”

Operation Christmas Child is an event that keeps getting better for Charter. Year after year, more and more charter students are seen participating in the event and joining together to make the holidays better for these children. This event will definitely be around Charter for years to come.

Boxes Galore: Boxes were filled with items like toothpaste, temporary tattoos, and toys for the recipients.

Photo By: Andy Alfonso

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Student Life

A Picture Perfect Business

CHARTER HIGH ACADEMIC TIMES

Sofia Azcurra Staff Writer

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tarting a business as a teenager isn’t the easiest task, especially when so many teens are still finding their talent. But senior Andrew McGill and junior Oscar Rodriguez have defeated all odds and created a thriving photography business, inside and outside of Charter, known as ROA Photography.

The duo have been friends since Oscar entered high school and have been wanting to earn money quickly and easily, like any high student, but in a beneficial way. They realized both their talents were something they could manage and something people are always looking for. Oscar, the photographer, is somewhat new to the art of photography. His passion to the skill started around a year ago and has recently gotten to the point where he’s always taking pictures. “Coming up with the idea for the business was the best thing I’ve ever done. I love taking pictures and capturing the essence of whatever I'm capturing. I get to do what I love with one of my friends,” stated Oscar.

Andrew has taken his father's footsteps in starting this business. His father, who currently owns two multimillion dollar corporations, has always encouraged Andrew to take on something as beneficial as starting your own business. “My dad always inspires me and doing this, I feel, made him really happy. He built his corporations from the ground up, self-funded them and manages them efficiently,” commented Andrew. In doing this, both have learned the responsibility in handling a business efficiently. While both are co-owners of the enterprise, each have specific roles.

Andrew manages with the financials and Oscar is the photographer. Junior Destiny Richardson expressed, “They work great together, and the pictures always come out amazing!” Their events vary from capturing the bittersweet moments at graduation, the joyful dances at weddings, or even Photo By: Andy Alfonso the ecstatic feeling at PPCHS’ very own homecoming. Any event and they’ll be there. They originally began advertising just on social media but expanded their horizons soon after getting several requests by interested customers. Andrew organized business cards with the enterprise's name and their positions alongside a website that displays the intricacy of Oscar’s photos and Andrew’s supreme managing skills.

With the right guidance, the duo created a booming business that everyone looks for nowadays and is ecstatic to have made something permanently they both love doing. The business has become such a big part of each of their lives the past year and they both feel it's shaped them in so many ways for the future.

To Bee or Not to Bee Swati Kumar

Technology Editor

S

We have a Winner: Students smile and pose after placing ing the SHS spelling bee.

Photo By: Andy Alfonso

hakespeare’s iconic line in Hamlet “to be or not to be”, means something a little different for PPCHS’ students. The phrase became “to bee or not to bee” when they encountered an opportunity to participate in a Spanish Spelling Bee. After the completion of the competition, many participants are glad that they did choose to “bee”, not only receiving extra credit for their hard work and effort, but also expanding their exposure to the Spanish language.

PPCHS’ National Spanish Honor Society came together on Thursday, November 30th, to present Charter’s first ever Spanish Spelling Bee. The initially laid back auditions done mostly by students hoping to gain extra credit transformed into a large and nerve wracking spelling bee, having both participants and the audience sitting at the edge of their seat and biting their nails in tension and anticipation.

From making lists of vocabulary words to hosting auditions to arranging for delicious cookies to putting together professional certificates, SHS went all out to create a Spelling Bee that Charter will never forget. The plain, dull colored case study room was also entirely transformed by SHS members into a colorful venue with yellow, red, and blue splashed together to make a massive, vibrant banner near the back. Organized to the point of perfection, SHS ensured that participants in the spelling bee received practice lists earlier so they would have time to prepare. Judges had an accessible list of words, definitions, and sentences to refer to. Contestants also received bright yellow name tags with their last names and number, not only making the spelling appear compatible to the Scripps Spelling Bee but also adding to the color and vibrancy in the room.

“To be honest, it was really a nerve wracking experience because of all the tension and pressure,” expresses Sabino. “But I ended up doing better than I expected and I feel really great actually!”

Photo By: Andy Alfonso

A Watchful Eye: Teachers turned judges as they listened to each contestant spell a word in Spanish.

Photo By: Andy Alfonso

The spelling went on for a total of six tense rounds, starting off with a room full of students who slowly lost their place as contestants until eventually only two students were competing in the center blue “X,” trying to claim the title of the winner for themselves in the end.

The battle between Sophomore Rafael Sabine and Junior Zachary Marquez was a long and tiring one as both students kept getting their words wrong by a single letter or accent mark until Sabino victoriously spelled the winning word correctly and brought about a surge of cheers and applause at the conclusion of the Spanish Spelling Bee. Winner Rafael Sabine earned a certificate and a VISA gift card to spend wherever he desires, while Marquez and Sophomore Madison Lopez received certificates of recognition for second and third place.

“To be honest, it was really a nerve wracking experience because of all the tension and pressure,” expresses Sabino. “But I ended up doing better than I expected and I feel really great actually!” Though Sabino initially participated for the extra credit, he stated to have put a lot of effort into preparing for this spelling, studying with his mom and going over the lists for a couple nights. The spelling bee seemed to have benefited Sabino as he claimed to have definitely strengthened his overall Spanish skills through his participation and experience.

Not only Sabino, but all the other contestants in the Spanish Spelling Bee had something to gain as conducting an event like this allowed SHS to encourage both speakers and non-speakers to learn and develop their spelling in the Spanish language in an open and accepting environment. Spanish 2 and 3 teacher and SHS sponsor, Mrs. Ferrer, states that the Spanish Spelling Bee is truly beneficial because it expands the activities done in the classroom to reach outside the classroom and allowed students to develop pride in their heritage and Spanish speaking skills whether they are speaker or not.

Both exciting and exhilarating, PPCHS’ Spanish Spelling Bee truly was a memorable contest, giving students engaged in the Spanish language the opportunity to discover their talent in spelling and develop confidence in the language through an enjoyable event. The contestants truly deserve to be proud of themselves for taking part in the Bee and celebrating the Spanish culture and language in our school.

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Student Life

A Night in the Phantom of the O-Paw-Ra Alexa Infante

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Managing Editor- Content

veryday students walk into the hectic cafeteria and eat plain food and dress in their standard uniform. On Saturday December 2nd, everything changed. As soon as the cafeteria doors flew open at 7:00 p.m, students waltzed in dressed to the nines. The scene at “Phantom of the Paw-pera,” the 2017 PPCHS homecoming, was indescribable. The event modeled the iconic scene in the Phantom of the Opera where the chandelier drops. SGA worked endless hours to ensure that homecoming looked immaculate. Originally, the dance was scheduled for September 23rd, but unfortunately, the tragedy of Hurricane Irma caused SGA to scramble and reschedule. It was simply proof that if something does not go as planned, it is because something even better is in store. Junior SGA member Gianna Correa said, “This homecoming was unique compared to any other dance held at our school. I was in love with the theme because it allowed us to let our imagination run wild. It was really stressful to move everything two months back, but it just gave us more time to make sure everything was perfect!”

The incredible night would not have been possible without a hectic morning. Volunteers and SGA members led by their sponsor, Mr. Curry, woke up bright and early to get the ball rolling.

Black drapery hung from the walls and each table was decorated with flowers and candles. As soon as every last detail was placed, the students rushed home to dress up and enjoy their success. “I was so tired when I got ready for homecoming on Saturday. Waking up to help set up really took it all out of me. But when I walked through the doors at night and saw how beautiful it came out - everything seemed worth it,” said sophomore Emi Gonzalez. The night began promptly at 7 p.m. and lasted until the students were practically forced out at 11 p.m. Gorgeous dresses and clean suits floated around the room, filling the tables, the dance floor, and the line for dinner. The pleasant aroma of different pastas spread through the entire room. After the delectable food was cleared off of every plate, the students crowded their dance floor showing off their best moves to their peers. “After the exhausting picture taking process was finally over, I could not wait to get on the dance floor! The songs were so good and it made the night so much more fun. Last year homecoming was great, this year was awesome, I can only imagine what is in store for next year!” said junior Alex Mora. The DJ played popular hits the entire night. Dance party classics such as “No Hands,” “The Cha-cha Slide,” and “Mi Gente” elicited wild responses from the dancers.

Around 10 p.m., it was time for the main event of the night - homecoming king and queen. The contestant’s hearts rose to their throats as the drumroll began and the winners were announced. First came four time winner, Guy Boston! The audience cheered with excitement when his name was announced. Guy was truly a crowd favorite. “I went into this year thinking like a fighter. You would never see the heavy weight world champion walking into a fight thinking he was going to lose. I had absolutely no reason to think I would ever lose, because I never have,” said Guy. He was crowned with a large smile on his face, and next, the queen was announced. Another minute of anticipation passed and finally the queen was announced. Jessica Gonzalez screamed with glee after her name was called. She walked up next to Guy and proudly accepted her crown. As the cheers died out, it was time for the pair to do their honorary slow dance. Eventually, the spotlight faded and the rest of the couples took over the dance floor. The DJ started the party right back up allowing the students to leave their hearts on the dance floor.

“I was definitely not disappointed with my last homecoming! The decorations were beautiful and the music kept me on my feet all night. The photo booth was also a really cool addition. It was an unforgettable night,” said senior Kelen Quintana. Yet again, SGA proves that they are an exceptional club. They orchestrated another amazing event that put a smile on everyone’s face and brought the PPCHS family even closer. The chandelier was dropped at the end of the night, just like in the original play, to signify the end of an amazing night.

Every aspect was planned to the tee. Homecoming 2017 was ultimately the night of nights.

Photos By: Sofia Alfonso

Student Life

CHARTER HIGH ACADEMIC TIMES

Photos By: Sofia Alfonso

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10 Student Life CHARTER HIGH ACADEMIC TIMES

Student Life 11

CHARTER HIGH ACADEMIC TIMES

12 By the Grade - 9th

Break Dancing into Success

Staying in Sync

CHARTER HIGH ACADEMIC TIMES

Florencia Azcurra Staff Writer

Busting a Move: Gustavo break dances during pep rally.

Photo By: Aijah Harper

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young, quiet prodigy of Charter has recently created a spotlight for himself as he took the school by storm when he shocked us all with the rare, illustrious art of breakdancing. Freshman Gustavo Salama has a particular passion for an atypical dance that for him, means the world.

When Gustavo was only 6 years old, he began the sport that would quite literally send him in circles. Breakdancing for the youngster started as a hobby, with his coach, Kim Jet, in which he then came to accept as an extracurricular. “As my coach saw potential in me, he introduced me to a new team, or what we call a crew,” says the Charter student.

Gustavo then went on to dance with the Future Force Crew, a group of break-dancers who compete with other crews. With his mind set on becoming the best with this team, he set to work with his determination and new friends.

While amongst this team of professionals, Gustavo at times played catch up, but given his natural talent with the dance, he caught on quickly. “I was taught the basics, and later on, I was taught and given tips on much more advanced techniques,” says Gustavo Salama. Like many professionals, the freshman dedicates a good amount of time to do what he loves. He practices 6 to 8 hours a week with his teammates and coaches. With all the time the dancer has invested in breakdancing, he has come to learn more about the sport and what it has to offer in the future. “I hope to continue it in college. Breakdancing would affect me in the future because it will help me find new teams, and probably land a gig here and there,” says Gustavo. Break-dancing introduced him to a new society of break-dancers called the ‘Bboys.’” According to the dancer himself, this group is filled with “culture and ethnicity.” With the time and energy put towards his dancing, Gustavo has managed to succeed in being an accomplished dancer at such a young age.

In his time breakdancing, Gustavo has attended his fair share amount of competitions in which he certainly had proven himself to be a worthy dancer filled with determination and potential. He shares his love for the sport with some of his friends and has helped him in times of trouble. “Dancing makes me feel happy to share my moves with others to inspire, and it’s cool to compete with other crews and build my strength.” Dancing has certainly created a big impact on Gustavo’s life and one that he would definitely remember.

Most recently, Gustavo was able to showcase the love he has for breakdancing at Charter’s Multicultural Show. It was one of many times the aspiring star was able to share his love with others. “I felt great at the multicultural show! I thought it was really cool,” says Gustavo. Gustavo hope he can one day pursue a strong career while also holding on to his love for the rarity of breakdancing. He is definitely a Charter student who has a knack for something unique.

Donated By: Gustavo Salama

Florencia Azcurra Staff Writer

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hile students drown in AP work and cramming for that one awful exam, freshman Valentina Terry has taken everyone by surprise by committing herself to the quiet sport of synchronized swimming. The art of this water ballet isn’t like the nation's top leading sports soccer or football, but rather an intricate and powerful sport that requires the precision of a golfer, the flexibility of a ballerina, the speed of a tennis player, and the strength of a wrestler.

Valentina Terry started synchronized swimming at the mere age of ten years old, which is actually considered a bit late for a synchronized swimmer; nevertheless, Valentina caught on quickly and would soon realize her love and passion for the sport would be changing her life. The Charter freshmen started with the team The Shining Stars, and for the five years she has been doing it, she’s moved through a total of three other teams before finally making her decision on staying with the nationally ranked Coral Springs Aquacades. The hours of training and pushing herself most certainly paid off for the young rising star. Her and her sister, Gabby Terry, who goes to the Central Charter campus in the eighth grade, were both invited to attend the 2017 East All Star Camp focused on gathering the most of elite girls to train and mold them into the best they can possibly be. “I was really excited to be invited to this. It was really exclusive since you had to place top 15 out of a good 60-70 (give or take) in the figures in the Zones competition,” says Valentina Terry.

Synchronized swimming competitions consist of two parts. The first being a figures competition and the second, the one most people are familiar with, the routines.

Valentina excelled in both at the U.S.A South Zones competition in March 2017.

Her stellar performance proved worthy enough to be invited to this elite camp all the way in Geneva, Ohio from November 3rd to 5th. The camp was rigorous and full of a synchronized swimmers worst and best dreams.

“I try not to think about the stress and just deal with everything as it comes because if I do think about it, I’d probably get really overwhelmed.

Time management is definitely key.”

In the short three days Valentina was at the camp, she adjusted to the strict and thorough environment the coaches there created. The demanding camp’s schedule was the same thing Friday to Sunday: the girls woke up at around 6 a.m., went in the pool from 8:30 to 12:30 p.m, working only technical elements, went into a room to work land training for two hours, and then went back to the pool for the remaining 3 hours. “Even though it was really rigorous, I really enjoyed being there. The coaches, Kim, a 2008 Olympian and Olga, a Russian National Team member and a U.S. National Team coach really inspired me to strive even higher and gave me tips and advice on how to better myself as a swimmer,” says Terry.

Between school, volunteering and the norm of a stressful high schooler’s life, one would wonder how it’s possible to get everything done with the high demand of synchronized swimming. The team Valentina is currently on practices 4-5 times a week, a total of 15 to 18 hours. “I try not to think about the stress and just deal with everything as it comes because if I do think about it, I’d probably get really overwhelmed. Time management is definitely key,” says the aspiring swimmer. Valentina has certainly shown what it means to be a full time athlete and student. This year, she’s joined the school’s swim and water polo team to help her in Synchronized Swimming. Valentina plans on making the Junior National Team sometime in the future since her main focus is to now qualify for the 2024 Olympics. “This camp helped me seen clearly and helped me be more sure of my goals. Its shown me how a national team member essentially trains and has shown me ways I can train at home and become a stronger more successful swimmer,” says Valentina.

In its entirety, the camp for the determined athlete was very intense and difficult, but Valentina made the best of a once in a lifetime opportunity. “I love being a synchronized swimmer because it’s such a unique sport and being in the water relaxes me and puts me at peace.” The inspiring freshmen gained inspiration and tips from the camp to help her become a greater synchronized swimmer.

Donated By: Valentina Terry

By the Grade - 10th 13 CHARTER HIGH ACADEMIC

Jaguars with Jobs

Spotted: Jags in the Jungle

Isabella Munoz

Staff Writer

Isabella Munoz

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Staff Writer

Photo By: Eric Hernandez

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hile some students are having an after school meal, others are hard at work making money and gaining experience. Giovani Kizerdis has been working across the street from Charter at Pasquale's Pizza, since October 2, 2017. Giovanni had some tips to share for those interested in applying for a job.

“Being a teenager in this day and age, isn’t the easiest thing. I had just turned sixteen when I got the job,” he said. Since now we are given the stereotype that teenagers are lazy and on our phones so much, employers might not always trust that teens will work well in their office, restaurant, or wherever the work may be. This is where everyone’s true colors show. Those who really want the job will own up to it, whereas others will simply get fired.

To get hired, Giovani says, was not all that difficult. “Always be honest with what you are capable of doing, and work up to it. Also before going in for your interview, ask what is in need exactly. This entitles the job, and how much they would like to pay their employees,” he states. It should be just a given that you are supposed to do as your boss says. Doing your job, and exceeding at it, helps build a relationship with your boss so that they will always have you in mind with thinking of raises, or being understanding when you can’t make your shift on time. So this is exactly what Giovani did. He knew they were in need of a busboy and claimed he didn’t care for the pay as long as he was able to work after school hours.

Like everything in life, there are pros and cons to what you do. Some pros he really enjoys are the money he receives and the experience of being able to work at such a young age. However, the cons are the commitment and the strain it puts on your social life. Depending on how many days/hours you work, having a job can be very time consuming.

When choosing what job to apply for, he said he really liked the idea of working in a pizza place because when his dad was his age he worked in a pizza place as well back home in Philadelphia.

Giovani plans to continue his job and hopefully make his way up the chain.

n Thursday, November 9, 2017, the class of 2020 made their way up to Disney’s Animal Kingdom for their class trip. Departing from the school promptly at 5:20 in the morning, everyone was still a bit groggy. Students killed time playing the game “Heads Up: Disney Edition” to help resurface their knowledge of the characters and areas of the park. Two hours later, the students were ready for the jungle.

Walking in you immediately feel as if you are in a magical place, with workers always ready to greet you with a smile, and seeing kids all dressed up as their favorite characters, it truly made you feel like a child at heart. Although, you certainly did get a great of whiff of the animal part of the Animal Kingdom. It smelled like a zoo at first. Some students had taken the Wildlife Express Train, where they could visit a petting zoo with animals such as: goats, sheep, donkeys, cows, and pigs.

Animal Kingdom is most popular for their “zoo”-like structure, however there are some rides that are ones worth waiting for. In Asia, there is an adventure that is like no other, Expedition Everest - Legend of the Forbidden Mountain. Having a 45 minute wait isn’t all that bad for roller coaster lovers. You board a weather-beaten train and begin to navigate upwards, seeing Animal Kingdom all below you while going up a steep incline, before you realize you are literally on top of the world. This is when you begin to race throughout the mountain with several twists and turns not knowing what is occurring. Suddenly, you come to an unexpected halt where you see in front of you a broken track that you cannot continue your expedition on. You are pulled back by the Yeti in reverse and attempt to find another way to escape.

Pandora was also a must on this trip. Pandora, the world of Avatar opened up May 27 of this year, showcasing the land that celebrates the magic of nature. Disney once again really outdid themselves once again with the decor and setting to truly show what Pandora would look like. Growing up in South Florida, you would assume the students were used to all of the greenery. Yet Pandora was decorated in a way where it felt surreal, like a dream. With waterfalls and floating rocks all connected by vines, Pandora was a true sight to see. Pandora is home to two rides, Avatar Flight of Passage and Na’vi River Journey. “This ride was completely worth its two and a half hour wait,” sophomore, Kimberly Otero shares about Avatar Flight of Passage. Flying on the back of a banshee you get to experience what it’s like to be in the world of Avatar.

Mark Rosero says, “It was incredible, I really felt like a kid again. It felt magical. I had heard it was going to be like Soaring, [a ride in Epcot] but it was ten times better.” Seeing all the different colors and characters, it really felt as if you were in Pandora. It was slightly upsetting when the students had to leave the beautiful landscape. Although, this did help students further appreciate what we have as a planet.

All in all, this journey was one most certainly worth repeating. Being able to open your eyes to the beauty of nature right in front of you, with your friends at arm’s reach, is an experience to forever be remembered.

Tree of Life: Two sophmores stand infront of the Tree of Life at Animal Kingdom.

Photo By: Andy Alfonso

“Always be honest with what you are capable of doing, and work up to it.”

Photo By: Andy Alfonso

Ready for Adventure: The students meet Russell.

Photo By: Andy Alfonso

14 By the Grade - 11th CHARTER HIGH ACADEMIC TIMES

Baking Business Sells Tasty Treats Water Polo Player Excels in the Water Jordan Alberti

Ainsley McCormick

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Sports Editor

Student Life Editor

s only a junior in high school, Patricia Mendez owns three businesses where she pursues her hobbies and works towards her dreams, while spreading her happiness to everyone around her. Patricia can always be seen around the school with a smile on her face and new ideas in her mind. She is the owner of Reality Beauty Co., a beauty company, Swish Athletics, an athletic wear company, and Tricia’s Treats, a baking company in which she is constantly crafting new treats to sell to her customers.

Patricia’s business, Tricia’s Treats, is quickly growing amongst her friends, peers, and social media followers. Currently, Patricia’s main focus is school, but she definitely puts loads of love and effort into all of her baked goods. She said, “As a little girl I have always loved baking, but my mom didn’t really like when I would bake. She doesn’t cook, nevertheless bake, so everything I have learned has been through me.”

By trial and

“As a little girl I have always loved baking, but my mom didn’t really like when I would bake. She doesn’t cook, nevertheless bake, so everything I have learned has been through me.” error, Patricia has perfected her scrumptious treats that she sells to her friends and more.

Patricia sells everything from cake pops to coconut balls to apple pie. With each of these products, a different taste hits your tongue with a wave of flavor, making every bite better and better. In fact, her one treat, a dulce de leche cheesecake, is so delicious that a restaurant owner considered placing the cheesecake on the menu of his opening restaurant.

Patricia says any critiques on her treats she absorbs as constrictive criticism.

This entrepreneur has taken her business to a whole new level by offering delivery and catering. She has a whole menu created with descriptions and prices, showing the best deal for each treat. Her menu can be found on Tricia’s Treat’s Instagram account, @triciastreats1. “Tricia’s Treats originally came from my name, Patricia. Although my friends don’t call me Trish, I just thought they rhythm went nice and incorporated my name to let people know whose treats they are devouring,” she said.

Those who have tried her treats can vouch for their pleasing taste and the hard work Patricia puts in. Patricia hopes everyone can taste a piece of her business, and she hopes to grow it throughout Broward county and beyond. If you see her throughout the hallways, make sure to inquire about her delicious baking business!

Donated By: Ethan Coello

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unior Ethan Coello never envisioned himself as a swimmer or water polo player when he was younger, but here is now exceeding expectations in the sport and vying for a spot with the U.S. national team, along with being a part of Charter’s water polo team. However, Ethan is split on what each sport does for him, his body, and his mind. Ethan said, “Swimming is awesome because you are always hanging out with your teammates, and when you go compete at meets you cheer each other on because you know the grind you guys have been on to try to win.”

On the other hand, Ethan’s personal favorite sport to play, water polo, is what he excels in. He said, “Personally, I enjoy water polo more because I feel I am better at it. I also love it because of the chemistry you build with your teammates in the water and the comradery that comes with it.”

Ethan is not only a swimmer and water polo player but he also excels in the classroom.

“Balancing school, swimming, and water polo is very difficult. Having practices from 3 p.m. – 9 p.m. is exhausting and having to do school work after is terrible, but it has to get done if I want to continue playing sports.” This has been noted as an issue for many student athletes, but if they plan on going to college and playing their sports at the next level, as Ethan does, then the out of class work has got to be done.

Since Ethan excels in both sports, it allows him to travel all around the country and even internationally to play some of the best junior water polo players in the world. He said, “It is amazing to be able to play the best competition because it allows me to learn and get better. I aspire to be where they are and who knows, maybe I can end up at the Olympics one day.”

Before he goes to the Olympics though, Ethan would like to go to college and play for an elite water polo program such as Cal-Berkley or Pepperdine. “I really want to continue my education and water polo career at a great college no matter where it is. It will be nice to get away and do something I love: swim and play water polo.” Ethan will play water polo this season for the school team, and hopes to become water polo captain his senior year.

Donated By: Ethan Coello Donated By: Patricia Mendez

Donated By: Patricia Mendez

Donated By: Ethan Coello

Donated By: Patricia Mendez

By the Grade - 12th 15 CHARTER HIGH ACADEMIC

Full-time Student, Part-time Model Track Captain on the Road to States Roselle Curiel

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Andres Perez

Entertainment Editor

or most people, the world of social media is just an outlet for their thoughts or a picture book for their memories. But senior Lillianna Thomas experienced a new use for social media when dress company Rashawn Rose, who make prom, homecoming, and bridal dresses, was hiring models for their clothes. “I heard about being a prom ambassador from an upperclassmen who previously was one,” said Thomas. “They open applications for seniors every year around September.” After applying and impressing her employers at her interview, Thomas found herself a new job!

The overall duties of being a prom dress ambassador include: visiting the shop at least once a month to try on many dresses at once, taking photos in them, and posting those pictures on social media at least once a week. Essentially, it is a form of advertisement, trying to get new, young girls looking for dresses to come and check out the shop. Rashawn Rose is an independent boutique based solely in South Florida, with stores from Miami to Boca Raton. Their passion for providing a personalized shopping experience drives them to hire creative, stylish high schoolers like Thomas. The company is now looking to take it a step further with their customer outreach by preparing professional photo shoots, which Thomas will be a part of. Not only that, but they will be visiting a hospital in order to volunteer, sing Christmas carols, and making cards for the kids.

The wide, colorful variety of dresses - big, fluffy, skinny, long, short, two-pieced, sparkly, long-sleeved, short-sleeved, backless, satin, laced, floral, sequined and more - is constantly showcased on Thomas’s snapchat stories. The company itself has all sorts of designers, like Faviana and Jovani. Don’t like dresses? The inclusive shop carries suits, too.

Having just dipped her feet into the world of modeling, Thomas says she’s open to a future career if the opportunity presents itself. “My main priority is going to college and getting an education. However, if I was offered a job in modeling, I would love to take it.” For now, she loves being a “promotologist” and working with other girls who share her job duties. “By working with them, I feel empowered and more confident. We all want the best for each other; they’re incredibly kind and beautiful inside and out,” she said. It is no doubt that this opportunity for Thomas will open doors for her in the future; perhaps she has found a new calling?

Staff Writer

Donated By: margaret copello

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eing a runner takes so much strength and gut as an individual. Having the ability to run at a high level is remarkable, and that strength lies within Margaret Copello.

Copello, a senior, is leaving her mark on the PPCHS Track and Cross Country teams.

If Copello told you she just started running four years ago, you probably wouldn't believe her. As a freshman having been involved in gymnastics for 10 years, she was searching for a new challenge as she entered high school. After some encouragement from an upperclassmen, she joined the track and cross country team. Thanks to that upperclassmen, Copello has become a runner for the 4x400 and 4x8 on the track team and a runner for the open 800, 400, mile, and 5k for cross country. As a junior, Copello became the captain and still holds that position for both the track and cross country team. “Running has taught me that you not only have to be physically strong but also mentally strong and that if you doubt yourself you’ll never get anywhere and that why you need to be positive.” To top that off, she is ranked third in the district and sixth in the region for cross country. Subsequently, she has been selected to run for the south region of Florida in the FACA senior all-star race and made it to states.

Along with those accomplishments, she has come to realize how different her senior season has been compared to all her others, “Running my senior year is a lot different from any other year because I know the races are what really count, and I don't want to run a race knowing I didn't give it my all.” Copello has learned a lot from just four years of experience, and with that she has learned much more about herself than ever before.

Copello has had a PPCHS running career to remember and a senior season unlike any other. Everything she has accomplished is very deserving because of her strong mentality and perseverance. With her determination strength, Copello can achieve anything on the track and in life.

Donated By:Lillianna Thomas

Donated By:Lillianna Thomas

Donated By:Lillianna Thomas

Donated By:margaret copello

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Features CHARTER HIGH ACADEMIC TIMES

Bests of the Year...

Charter’s Game of Thrones Paolo Barrera

Chris Alegria Beats Brain Cancer

Features Editor

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Chris Alegria, an alumni who graduated from Charter in 2017, was diagnosed with stage 4 brain cancer his senior year of high school. Being consistently in and out of school in a grim time was stressful enough, but a spark of hope hit him and his family most recently in September after the former Charter student successfully beat cancer and can say he is happily cancer free.

Total Solar Eclipse: A Sight to See

The most recent spectacular our generation was lucky enough to witness was the solar eclipse.

Although Florida wasn’t its path of totality, at 2:58 p.m. people from the school to backyards could be seen trying to get a glimpse of this rarity. The historic event, which took place on the first day of school, required special glasses for students to experience the Total Solar Eclipse.

Antonia Peetom Battles Leukemia

Nowadays Charter has been breeding warriors and courageous students. Antonio Peetom graduated Charter in 2017 while overcoming the horrors of leukemia. Peetom received loads of support from his parents, siblings, the school and his coaches. In fact, the baseball lover received a special gift from the University of Nova for overcoming his obstacle.

Hurricane Irma Hits Florida

The strongest hurricane to ever brew in the Atlantic made its way to Florida this past September. The intense storm ranged from categories all over, even reaching a 5. In this time of chaos and nerve racking preparations, the school came together to pull through this monster. The school was locked up with shutters and closed for a week and two days as a result of Irma.

Mr. Dossul Comes to Charter

As if the “quiet” craft of American Sign Language couldn’t get more unique, a new deaf and mute teacher has begun teaching the class this school year, with an intepreter who helps him interact with his students. Mr. Dossul has created an innovative and advanced classroom environment. With his addition, Mr. Dossul has defeated all odds and brought to life the beauty of ASL.

conic author George R.R. Martin once said: “When you play a game of thrones you win or you die.” In his world famous series, violent battles and scheming transactions take place in the name of establishing dominance. Though there are no bloody conflicts taking place at Charter, the fight for on-campus dominance and the right to be dubbed “Charter’s Best” is alive and well.

Fighting for the crown are the warriors of word, also known as the Charter Debate Team. The nationally ranked squad has a track record of being the sharpest in the state, and the most feared in argument. In typical fashion, Mrs.Schwab and her troupe took a whopping 7 awards home at a State Competition in April of last year, with her three seniors placing in the top 10 in all of their respective categories and one of them winning the entire competition. Alumni Shreeya Singh and Jordan Farenhem were even able to take their talents to Graphic By: Rosa Gomez Yale University, respectively. The current roster looks to outshine the dynasty of feats, having returning debate students with unmatched potential. Sophomore Naveen Farook won Charter a first place trophy at her first varsity tournament, ever. With the debate season just beginning, what can’t Mrs.Schwab’s debaters accomplish?

Across the pond, is another force to be reckoned with: the drama department’s very own Troupe 6153. Though Mrs.Kidd concocted the recipe for a dominant theater troupe 10 years ago, performers before and after her Charter tenure continue to show why the title of “Charter’s Best” may have a home on stage. At their IE’s (individual evaluation) last year, Troupe 6153 won awards all across the board. Alumni Nicole Gomez, Nico Raimont, and Tony Madera took home “superior” and “excellent” awards in multiple categories, adding multiple trophies to the trophy case. Flashing to the present, juniors Julian Schenker and Zachary Poore continue to represent Troupe 6153 in their endeavors outside of school. Julian can be spotted acting in the River of Grass’ production of the Tony nominated musical “In the Heights,” in which he takes on the famed role of Sonny De La Vega.

Zachary graces the stage of the Broward Center for The Performing Arts in the county wide production of “A Christmas Carol,” in which he takes the stage as one of the many singing teenagers. With a current roster as promising as the Debate team’s, does Troupe 6153 take the cake?

Another organization that boasts a strong history is Charter’s very own Relay for Life team. Last year, sophomore Katie Rodriguez led the club with thousands of dollars raised in only a season of fundraising. They met their goal of $10,000 raised last year, earning a legitimate spot in a state standings and ranking among the most dynamic in the county. With returning leadership, a new team of passionate newcomers, and a board of experienced “veterans”, Mrs.Hyacinth is equipped with a squad that can go further than before. Can the state ranked Relay for Life team raise the banner for the most dominant Charter team?

In the gym awaits the next competitor: the varsity basketball squad. In a stacked Broward County, the PPCHS basketball teams have left its mark as a fierce competitor. In the past 5 years, both the Jaguars and Lady Jags have never failed to make districts and have even played for a stake at states. In the process, the boys and girls have won many tournaments hosted all over the state, from UM to the actual Heat stadium. Charter jerseys were worn by individual talents that have secured scholarships to schools ranging from D3 to D1. The most notable is Haanif Cheatham, who averaged a triple double his senior season en route to a scholarship to the Marquette University.

Alumni Cristine Alayon accumulated 1,000 points playing in these tournaments, and was named Miami Herald’s Player of the Year, all while being the Sports Editor for the Charter newspaper. If you get tired of watching Haanif play on national television and reading Cristine’s stories, then you can catch the recent graduate Malik Hardy start for the NSU sharks. His full ride scholarship came after four years of grinding for the PPCHS Jaguars. New faces arriving at the beginning of the school year and hours of gym work has the new PPCHS varsity roster ready to roll.

Sharing the gym with the basketball program is the Charter Varsity volleyball team. Like the basketball program, years of taking trips to districts and even states has created a winning culture for the volleyball players. The Lady Jags specifically have a culture of having the most talented in town. The girls boast heavy hitters that have been playing as freshmen, and a star freshman hitter in Natalie Hernandez. Team captain Maria Amon was selected to play in the Broward County All-Star game with center Aly Martinez. The year before, alumni Jamilla Amon and Kaetlyn Puldon had their own trip to the Broward County All Star game. A tradition of winning and a culture of excellence gives the Lady Jags a nod in Charter’s royal book.

Out in the field and out of the gym are the hard hitting softball and baseball teams. The boys secured the district trophy last year, while overcoming the obstacle of Antonio Peetom’s battle with cancer. In doing so, alumni Christopher Nappi received a scholarship to continue his baseball career at NYIT. The excellence continues with the Lady Jags of the varsity softball team.

Alumni Julia Ramos was named to the All State First Team and received a scholarship to play at the College of Central Florida.

Juniors Angelina Pascual and Natalie Alegria were selected to play for their national teams in Clearwater, and might even play at the 2020 Olympics. Commitments to play outside of Florida for the girls are flooding in, as juniors and freshmen are receiving offers. Bats in hand and Charter jerseys on their backs, the baseball and softball squads make a strong case for “Charter’s Best.”

Moving from the dry land teams and into Charter’s Olympic sized pool are the swimmers of Pines Charter. Last season, swimmer Kelly Heron brought the swim team to an elite level as her swimming attracted the attention of scouts from D1 colleges like University of North Carolina and Michigan State University. The swimming season came to a close with girls and boys on the swim team making the trip to districts and states this year. Two weeks later, the boys relay team placed 4th in the state and senior Andres Lares placed 3rd in the state. With the water polo season beginning, junior Ethan Coello and other teammates look to use their eventful summer of training to take the boy’s water polo team to districts, and maybe, the top of Charter’s list of teams.

The last to compete for the throne is the girls Flag Football team. Though under the radar and composed of girls who specialize in other sports, the Lady Jags on the football field are a different kind of beast. They broke Charter history by going undefeated throughout the entire season, facing their only loss at State’s. Cristine Alayon won Miami Herald’s Player of the Year award for her joint contribution to the Flag Football team and the girl’s basketball team. In addition to her award, Cristine was named to the All Broward Flag Football Graphic By: Rosa Gomez First Team with teammates Ashlynn Correa and Jahneal Morgan. All three of those girls totaled more than 20 touchdowns, with only two of the girls playing on offense.

After all the arguments, who truly claims the throne? Who has impressed their way into taking the crown? Who has dominated the opponents at the level of “Charter’s Best”? There are more elite athletes not on any of the teams mentioned, but their legacy is still being built. In turn, Charter’s true “Best Team” is the team of student athletes that continue to break records, push limits, and fight their own game of thrones.

“When you play a game of thrones, you live or die.”

- George R.R. Martin

17 Features

CHARTER HIGH ACADEMIC TIMES

Does Charter’s Lineage Live On? Paolo Barrera Features Editor

“College, Citizenship, Community.”

D

ynasties are formed across years and years of excellence, reaching a point where success becomes the standard. It’s easier said than done, though, especially when a dynasty requires constant perfection time after time again. It seems like the stars must align for one to achieve a year of “excellence,” so is it even possible that our very own school was able to obtain one? Pines Charter can answer that question with its history: yes. However, how far would one go to say that Pines Charter’s academic excellence has accumulated into a lineage of gold standard education?

Like every dynasty in sports history and world history, a strong staff is key. Luckily, Charter has boasted a strong staff since its creation. Leading the charge is Mr. Peter Bayer, a principal that makes it a point to know every name of every high school student that is and has been enrolled in the high school. Recently, he’s also taken on the task of learning the names of the PPCMS Academic Village students. On his team are versatile administrators, always ready to assist.

To name a few, the list includes Mrs. Melissa Sabatier, who reels in resources from top notch college visits and to even SAT Prep “star” Ray Dass, and Mr. Steve Bruns who is both a Behavioral Specialist & Athletics Director, with history of playing in the NCAA College World Series. His place in the Creighton Hall of Fame (his Alma Mater), serves as a testament to the gold standard of administration. The staff also includes Mr. Curry, a teacher at the top of the Broward County Student Government organization whose impacts span across the entire county, and Mrs. Rudd, a teacher that is a part of a group of graders with some of the most elite AP World teachers in the nation. As the saying goes, the apple does not fall far from the tree.

From Pembroke Pines to the Big A talented staff is complementary of a student body that has credited a Pines Charter campuses with an A+ rating for Apple: PPCHS Alum Nadira Danticat the past 5 years straight, with the elementary and middle schools earning an A grade for 16 years straight. In 2007, all the campuses were named as one of the 2007 National Charter Schools of the Year. Two years later, the Pembroke Pines poses with her mom on her new campus, Charter Middle School was named a National Blue Ribbon School of Excellence by the U.S. Department of Education, Barnard College. which is the highest award a school can receive. In 2015, the high school got their own national recognition when the Photo Donated By: Nadira Danticat U.S. News & World Report Magazine acknowledged the school as one of the nations’ best high schools. Ranking service “Niche” even ranked Pines Charter as #3 in the entire state. Because of the school’s affiliation with Cambridge, some students have received awards like "Top in the World," for earning some of the highest scores possible on their Cambridge exams, according to AP & Cambridge Coordinator Mrs. Shannon Torres. Club and team excellence is obviously not the only Charter specialties, as academic excellence on the national platform is an effortless feat as well.

With a school and staff that represent the highest standard of resourcefulness and success, individual students have the means to continue and create a dynasty. Right now, more than half of the 9 Ivy League tiered schools have a Charter student from 2017 Summa cum Laude group in attendance. That group includes Shreeya Singh and Jordan Farenhem attending Yale University, Elizabeth Garrison at Dartmouth, Diego Burga at Cornell University, and Nadira Danticat at Barnard University. Other members of the 5% include Karla Mendez attending the International University in Puerto Rico and state colleges across the nation, like Esther Omole at Stanford University and Christopher Nappi at the New York Institute of Technology. National Merit Scholars (members of the 99% percentile in PSAT scoring) are also present in Ivy League schools, in which Pines Charter claimed 5 of these scholars, which is the most the school has ever had. Other universities in the state have Charter alumni that have received scholarships in addition to accomplishing other feats, like winning a state beauty pageant or scoring 1,000 career basketball points. Academic success in not restricted to alumni though, as 4 students earned perfect scores in their freshman year finals, displaying an unrivaled potential to break the records that have made Pines Charter top in the nation.

With all that in mind, where does Pines Charter stand? Is there enough medals, trophies, and awards to build a dynasty of longstanding educational excellence? Is the national attention enough to look at Pines Charter as the gold standard of high school? The answer is still loading, as history is in the making. As long as Charter students keep pushing the boundaries of success, the lineage of Charter greatness will live on.

Meet the Staff: Mr. Bayer

Job Title: Principal Job Description: Making others better as a result of his presence and making sure the impact lasts in his absence Years Working in the Charter System: 18 years at Pembroke Pines Charter High School

Mrs. Torres

Job Title: Curriculum Specialist, AP & Cambridge Coordinator Job Description: Assist teachers on professional development, textbook adoption, and assessing and improving curriculum; organize and coordinate all AP and Cambridge exams Years Working in the Charter System: 11 years (2 at Central Middle, 3 at West Middle, and 6 at the HS)

Mrs. Sabatier

Job Title: Behavior Specialist & BRACE Advisor Job Description: Implement and develop behavior policies; Oversee and facilitate Dual Enrollment & Early Admissions; Assist seniors with all things college and graduation (applications, schlolarships, Silver Knight etc.)

Years Working in the Charter System: 3 years at Pembroke Pines Charter High School

18

Features CHARTER HIGH ACADEMIC TIMES

What’s your best

Freshman Gabriella Restrepo

I

“ guess I could say a good memory was finally entering high school and being able to be a part of the community. I knew how difficult it would be to be a part of the dance team here because there were so many people trying out, it makes you nervous to think you possibly might not make it. But finding out I did, that was one of the best feelings in the world.”

Freshman Kalie Acevedo

“My

eighth grade formal was the night of nights. From a young age, everyone knew there were proms, but when I found out there was an eighth grade formal I was beyond excited. Getting my hair and makeup done made me feel so glamorous. And then the actual party was so enjoyable; I enjoyed every single minute of it. It was definitely a night to remember.”

Sophomore Bianca Molina

Senior Andrea Tholenaar

“I came to Charter in eighth grade, I was accepted into

A ndrea Tholenaar, senior.

My favorite memory from

west campus because my sister had been accepted for sixth grade. I was very nervous because the school year had already started and it was the last year of middle school.

Everyone already formed their little groups, I felt like I was going to be a fish out of water. That was proved so wrong when I reunited with some old friends who showed me into their groups. My favorite memory is making all the happy memories with my friends and for many years to come.

charter is being in SGA. I had never thought that I would be a part of such a dedicated and hardworking group of people.

I have created friendships and skills I will carry with me past graduation and into my life.

After weeks and weeks of planning and executing events to promote school spirit, raise awareness, or even raise money for charity, seeing all your hard work payoff is extremely rewarding and those memories are my favorite memories of Charter.

Freshman Sama Ali

E ighth grade year was a fantastic year especially end-

“

ing with a bang of a field trip to Busch Gardens. The ride up was so much fun it was like a family field trip. The theme park itself was so much fun as well. The trip even strengthened some friendships. It was was a field trip I could never forget.”

Senior Brittney Chang

B rittney Chang, senior: My favorite memory from charter was

being on the cross country team.

Through the four years at charter I had four different coaches each year but I was still about to excel in the sport. It was heartwarming to see how I and my running partner Margaret were able to grow and become closer because of this sport. I really enjoyed being a part of cross country and the many joys it brought to me.

memory at Charter?

Sophomore Trace Wills

Sophomore Lourdes Ramírez

“P icking a favorite memory from “I first came to charter in in Charter is piece of pie, literally. I seventh grade to attend the acdon’t know about all the middle schools, but academic village had what was called. a “Pi Day.” I don’t think it always occurred on March 14 (3.14), but you get the idea. So they would sell slices pies as a fundraiser, and at the end of the day, you were able to choose who you wanted to throw a pie in the face. The plate being thrown was actually just whipped cream but you get the idea.

Now, I had a frenemy type relationship with Ms. Abolafia, so I just had to throw something. Both my seventh and eighth grade year I chose Abolafia, it was the schools joke. But what made it even better was last year, as a freshman in high school, they called me back to continue the tradition. I thought that was pretty awesome.”

ademic village middle school.

At first I thought it was going to be horrible because it was like restarting middle school all over again, except this time, everyone knew no one.

With time the teachers brought us out of our shells, and it was great. Because it was such a small school (100 kids per grade level) you knew everyone by the end of the year, we were like one big family. Administration always treated us as such, and that’s something I’ll never forget.”

Features 19

CHARTER HIGH ACADEMIC TIMES

Sophomore Diego Escobar

“I got accepted into charter in seventh grade to attend the

‘new’ middle school, academic village, middle school. This is where I met my best friend.

We have had millions of ups and downs, but I wouldn’t trade any of them for anything. Considering we’ve had this strong of a bond since we met, I like to think means something. Most friendships now are as weak as a toothpick when bent. Charter introduced me to someone I could never forget.”

Junior Chad Epps

Junior Kiara Perrault

Senior Yannick Blackman

C had Epps, junior: my favorite moment at charter was

K iara Perrault, junior: My favorite memory would have

Y annick Blackman, senior: My favorite moment in char-

when it was the homecoming game against Westminister Academy during the 2016-2017 football season. I was nominated and ended up winning homecoming Duke alongside my girlfriend and it was a memorable and fun experience and also I did well in the game.

to be attending my first pep rally as a freshman. I thought it was so cool to see all the different clubs and sports go in the middle. I especially loved the performances and when everyone got so excited.

It was the beginning of jaguar pride.

ter will probably be playing my first game as a Jaguar my freshman year. I felt like it was my true welcome to becoming a jag. They say that the first day of school is when you’re supposed to feel welcome, but for me it was my first home game. Being recognized as center back felt good to know I was known, I had a place on the field.

20 Clubs & Electives CHARTER HIGH ACADEMIC TIMES

Bests of the Year...

Empowered Women, Empower Women

Kevin Garcia’s Spirit Lives on During Holidays Sofia & Florencia Azcurra Staff Writers

F

This female empowerment club sold $300 worth of t-shirts after pairing up with Women in Distress, an organization that aims to end domestic violence and provide education on the subject.This club also participated in the Women in Distress 18th Annual 5K to raise awareness. This homeroom club doesn’t just meet every week; Girl Power addresses gender inequality head-on.

Key Club & KG4 Hurricane Relief

After the disastrous Hurricane Irma, many Florida cities were eradicated. These clubs voluntarily cleaned the affected areas that were full of litter from the remains of the hurricane. Additionally, these clubs partnered together to carry out a relief drive, asking Charter students to donate canned goods and sanitary items to those individuals inhabiting the cities where Florida was hit hardest.

rom brightening smiles, to illuminating lives, the Kevin Garcia Foundation continues sparking hope within children and their families. The foundation has kept alive the spirit and love of Kevin Garcia, a young teen who tragically passed away, by helping the community one step at a time.

When the growing seventeen year old, Kevin Garcia, brother of Mr. Garcia here at Charter, shockingly passed away in 2008, the family, wanting to revive Kevin’s love, started the Kevin Garcia Foundation, also referred to as KG4. Since the organization has started they have never failed to surprise people with kindness and hope. The foundation is best known for helping teenagers overcome economic barriers to help them reach their goals, educationally and personally. “We wanted to treasure his spirit and he was an extremely kind hearted soul. He would want his known for something like this,” commented Mr. Garcia, brother of Kevin Garcia.

Around Christmas KG4 holds Christmas toy drive well known to charter.

They collect toys starting in November and accept any new and unwrapped toys for the children of Joe DiMaggio and the Ronald McDonald House.

The drive, which is also partnering with Charter’s National Honor Society, started on November 8th with high hopes. The students of both the clubs distributed the boxes for the harvest drive during homeroom. “While planning this with KG4 at the club meetings it was really emotional but really inspiring too. Everyone could really feel all the sentiment behind the drive and the fact that KG4 let us partner with them for this is really cool,” Giving Back for a Cause: says NHS member junior Muriel Morales. The drive has been going on Members of KG4 pack away toys since before Mr. Garcia even came to work at the high school. Both clubs that collected from the toy drive. doing this toy drive certainly shows the amount of gratitude and love our Photo by :Yearbook school has.

While many think starting a foundation is hard, Mr. Garcia defeated all odds and showed true leadership by managing the foundation in and outside of school and maintaining the true message of the foundation and spreading Kevin’s spirit to younger kids. “It’s so cool how he does this, having him as this kind of teacher and mentor throughout the years really inspired me to take part of organizations like these,” stated junior Brette Curah, former student of Mr. Garcia in middle school. The organization has three ways of giving back, specifically being, the annual toy drive that takes place during Thanksgiving and Christmas, they also sponsor children for lifesaving and life-changing medical procedures through the Jackson Memorial Foundation. Ultimately, common here at PPCHS since some students have earned them, the Athletic Scholarship Awards to high school students who actively participate in the foundation and complete the requirements.

The foundation is one that never fails to impress and though Mr. Garcia’s endless work, it continues to support those who deserve it and continue to stand up for Kevin. The drive started with a sad story that turned into one that would essentially never die.

Student Governement Assocatation

The Winter Wonderland Party Leaves Hearts Warm Arianna Ozuna

Mr. Jag was put together by the hardworking students at SGA. Male jags rocked their suits while showing off their many talents. Alot of the audience held their stomach in laughter as the comedic skits commenced, one of them including some of the boys dancing to Britney Spears! The night ended in a promposal by senior Chinedu Ezenwa to his girlfriend Elizabeth Garcia.

Dance Team

Hosting their second annual Dance Banquet, the dance team made sure to leave the audience with dropped jaws and red hands from clapping. Various styles of dancing from lyric and point to jazz and hip hop surfaced the room, choreographies sharp and on point with the songs, proving how talented the dance team truly are.

National English Honor Society

Staff Writer

some of the songs ranging from Boyfriend by Big Time The Best Buddies club hosted their third annual Winter building, Rush and Suavemente by Elvis Crespo. For this event, the Best

Wonderland Party, making a wonBuddies invited individuals from derful night to remember. From Schott Communities, a nonprofit orthe variety of activities and beauganization founded to address the tiful winter-themed decorations, it needs of individuals who are deaf or was obvious how much hard work who are physically or intellectually was put into putting this event tochallenged in South Florida, for its gether. Just taking a step into the members to socialize and dance the party venue would leave many night away with. impressed as low-hanging lights “It was a get way to raise money danced across the ceiling and for Best Buddies and to invite other snowflake decorations occupied people from our school and different the walls. The creativity put into schools so they can interact with the the games and activities were obbuddies and become aware of these vious, some of them being a bean disabilities and from them to see that bag toss, bowling with cups for the buddies just like us are just norpins, and creating candy canes out mal people who want to have fun,” of an assortment of items. expressed Junior and Treasurer of “I had a lot of fun spending Best Buddies, Mariana Yordan. She time with my friends. Seeing the Photo by : Nicholas Amad went on to explain all the stress and amount of people show up was hard work that went into the party, also a highlight for me, and after I such as coordinating the donated decorations, coming up with acfinished serving food, I liked seeing all those different types tivities, and putting together food booths. of people of all ages having a good time,” says Junior Jes- The club’s effort showed as the dance was a huge success, and sica Ting, who’s a member of the Best Buddies club. even had a raffle at the end to finish the event. Seeing people of Once the DJ started his set list, there was no stopping the all backgrounds and ages having fun together was a heartwarming bodies of people as they gathered at the dance floor. It was experience, and the Best Buddies Winter Wonderland party made satisfying for many to hear different genres surface the that possible.

Poet enthusiasts sat on the edge of the seats as they anticipqted National English Honor Society’s Recite Night. The second annual event took place on Friday December 1st in Ms. Schwabb’s classroom. There were over 30 participates reading poetry from the 19th and 21st century, with even a greater audience in attendance.

Photo by : Nicholas Amad Photo by : Nicholas Amad

Photo by : Nicholas Amad

The Show of the Season

Clubs & Electives 21 CHARTER HIGH ACADEMIC TIMES

Rachel Rivera Lifestyle Editor

As the curtains opened revealing the stage to a jam packed River of Grass, the audience responded

with an array of cheers showing their excitement for the show of the season. December7, 2017, the Winter Fantasy Showcase, took place in the River of Grass Theater containing several breathtaking performances by PPCHS’ own drama and dance classes. The advanced drama students started off setting the mood for the show with their mystical pantomime. The theatrical entertainment piece not only included a filled stage, but also a sea of performers going through the aisles wearing mask and waving streamers.

The beginner’s drama class followed with their piece reminiscent of Lewis Carroll’s ‘Jabberwocky.’ The Jabberwock is a nonsense creature who stands in for anyone who uses language senselessly. Freshman Diego Acosta-Rubio stated “I’m in Ms. Abreu’s drama class and we performed Jabberwocky, I was in Jabberwocky and the whole thing was fun! I liked being able to interact with the advance drama classes and watch the dances.”

Along with the electrifying theatrical performances Winter Fantasy had its fair share of monumental dance performances. The first dance of the night was a duet between Camila Anson and Angela Scopa called ‘Cavalier.’ Moving away from the slow ballet moves of ‘Cavalier’ came the spice of the ‘Salsa Divas’ bringing the heat to their lively performance. Deep tones and strong movements blended in the softer duet dance piece ‘Don’t Touch My Hair.’ Although all the time and hard work put into each performance is unseen, it is beautifully executed on stage. Aryiel Bryant, who has devoted weeks to the show said, “preparing for the show our class had to practice countless days and work very hard. Aside from all the practice and work we put in during class we also had to take time to practice at home along with after school practices. After working so hard for so long I was so excited with the turnout.” One of the biggest performances of the night was the drama and dance collaboration ‘Black and Gold.’ Dance technique students came together to shine in the contemporary hip hop numbers with matching black and gold outfits. Sophomore Abigail Maiz talked about the madness behind the beauty of the performance, “Black and gold was kind of stressful to prepare for because of the amount of people that were in the dance, but I think that everyone worked really hard and put all their effort into it, I’m so happy with how it looked in the end. Performing was defiantly nerve wracking because the whole show was sold out but overall it was so much fun.”

Advanced drama amazed the crowd with their sensational and emotion filled monologues. The first half of the show included thrilling monologues from Julian Schenker, Angelica Chirino, Zachkary Jones, and Julia Cunningham. The second half of the show included a second round of expressive monologues performed by Imani Marable, Claudia Bonilla, Sofia Storti, and Kaitlyn Rasmussen.

The Intermediate Drama Class hit the stage and floor ahead of the stage with a swamp of students in their relatable and exciting rendition of ‘Coffee Break’ from How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying. This massive performance no doubt took weeks of work and prep, Sophomores Tyra Wong-Sang and Lia Goodman gave us a glimpse of that, “We’ve been working so unbelievable hard on this performance and seeing it executed so well was so wonderful. For the past 3 weeks we have spent every day working hard in the theater and it’s been such a fun yet hard experience.

Ms. Norton has really helped us so much so a big thanks is in order for her for making it all happen.”

Seanie Ortega and Sarah Rodriguez kept the crowd relating with their pantomime ‘A Mother’s Love’ using music and movement to show the difficulties of mother-daughter love. Seanie Ortega says, “For Winter Fantasy, we actually did our pieces for a competition we have on December 9. One of my acts, the Mother-daughter Pantomime, has been in the making for the past couple months now and performing it in Winter Fantasy was kind of a rehearsal for the competition. This is extremely important for the Advanced Drama students and I’m really excited that I got to show this at Winter Fantasy.”

Beginners Drama entertained the audience with their hilarious theatre folk arrangement spin off of Clint Snyder’s Lord of the Flies with ‘Lord of the Pies.’ The story line consists of a group of students allegedly being locked in a pie shop. An ultimate leader is chosen for the country they are creating while under the impression that there is an apocalypse outside the shop. It is later revealed that the students were not in fact locked in the door was just a push not a pull. In the invigorating Advanced drama performance ‘Officer Krupke’ consisting of all boys brought the broadway classic ‘West Side Story’ to the River of Grass.

As the performers got a quick break from the spotlight the audience got to enjoy the art slideshow, showcasing the stellar pieces of artwork and photography of PPCHS talented art students. Chloe Littleton took the stage by her lonesome and gave a gorgeous rendition of the song ‘Disneyland’ from Howard Ashman’s Broadway musical Smile. Academic Middle School Advanced Drama students got their time to shine with their ‘TheSeed’ pantomime. ‘The Seed’ was their theatrical response to the students’ experiences with Hurricane Irma that came through South Florida in September of 2017. The piece was a collection of the students’ research, personal stories, and emotions felt during and after the storm. Deborah Carvajal, the director of the performance, also describes the performance as a “representation of the storm of life and how sometimes students can show adults to never give up.”

Closing the performance filled night, advanced drama students took the stage one last time singing praises to above with the fun-filled hit from the famous musical Sister Act. As the curtain closed the room filled with loud claps and chants from the impressed audience. Performers were greeted with congratulations and well dones as the spirited crowd happily replays their favorite parts of the night in their heads.

Singing With Passion: The Winter Fantasy not only had dancers, but also included a lead singer. All of these different aspects made the show so magnificent.

Photo by : Nicholas Amad &Andres Alfonso

Photo by : Nicholas Amad &Andres Alfonso

Photo by : Nicholas Amad &Andres Alfonso

Photo by : Nicholas Amad &Andres Alfonso

Ms. Kidd’s Final Act, But the Show Goes On Ariana Ortiz Staff Writer

Change can be a very scary thing. This school year, the PPCHS drama department

pating in the show. Although more than 100 students is a big feat to get together, Ms. Abreu held rehearsals for weeks during classes, after school, and in homeroom. She made was thrown for a loop when the beloved Ms. Kidd announced her exit from the pro- sure to fit in extensive practice in the River of Grass, which is where the performance will gram as the 2016-17 school year came to a close. For years she be held. In theatre, the saying goes: “practice makes perfect,” molded her students into becoming great performers and the and that has been the standard for all the Winter Fantasy prolove she had for teaching radiated through her student’s work. ductions. Every class, not only drama, has been practicing daiShe also started the tradition of the Winter Fantasy production ly to ensure they will be in tip top shape for the performance. at PPCHS, a winter themed production compiled of perforDance Techniques 3 student, junior Kendall Truitt says, “This mances for the Charter performers and audience to enjoy. The year for Winter Fantasy, the dance class collaborated with one production’s success in years past leaves a big question as to of the drama classes to create a fun and theatrical piece. We the future of the show, but not to fear, Ms. Abreu is here! all have a lot of fun rehearsing because we get to interact with Even though the students may have lost their dearest leader, each other throughout the dance.” The student’s collaborative the tradition will continue on under new guidance. Upon her efforts show the hard work they put in to make this show posdeparture, “Ms. Kidd made sure to hire a teacher that would sible. teach just like her and Ms. Abreu does just that,” says Drama II The students always give a phenomenal performance and student Madison Hurtado. Ms. Abreu has taken over the drama have made Winter Fantasy a staple tradition at Pines Charter department, and although this is her first year teaching, she High. While the absence of their seasoned leader may have sure does have a vast background in theatre. She studied at been scary, change has shown to be a good thing. The students Photo by : Nicholas Amad FIU theatre and has co-directed a number of shows before her put their all into their performances every year and never fail to arrival at Charter. Her experiences in college and in the outside deliver a beautifully executed production each and every time. theatre scene greatly prepared her for a show of this capacity. “It’s very important to me Winter Fantasy is a beloved part of the school year for those participating, as well as to keep up with the traditions that have been going on for the past years. I know Ms. Kidd the rest of the student population who get to watch their friends perform their amazing built up a great program and I have some big shoes to fill,” says Mrs. Abreu. talents. This year is the start of a new chapter for Winter Fantasy, and there will be many The production is going to be a collaborative effort as multiple classes will participate. more amazing productions to come. After all, the student’s passion for performing is what Along with the beginners, intermediate, and advanced drama classes, the Academic Vil- shapes the astounding outcome of the show that everyone knows and loves. lage drama students, PPCHS art students, and PPCHS dance students will all be partici-

22 Sports CHARTER HIGH ACADEMIC TIMES

Bests of the Year...

Forza Stefano Water Polo Tournment

Two Pitchers Lost to the Field of Dreams Evan Samuels Managing Editor- Web

The annual tournament was held in honor of former water polo player and captain Stefano Dioguardi, a Charter alumn who lost a long-fought battle to Ewings Sarcoma. Proceeds from the event go to the Forza Stefano foundation, whose purpose is “to assist adolescents... who have been diagnosed with cancer or any other life threatening health condition/treatment.”

Peetom at NSU

After Antonio Peetoom was diagnosed with leukemia, he was forced to endure a much tougher inning in life. NSU and Make-A-Wish partnered to make his dream come true; he was given a team jersey with the #15 and ‘Peetoom’ printed on the back. During the pregame ceremony, Antonio was also gifted a new boat as part of his wish from the foundation.

Spike for a Spectacular Cause

The Red Cross Club organized a fundraiser for 2017 alum Chris Alegria, a senior who was battling a rare form of brain cancer. The volleyball tournament helped raise money for his family, funding the many radiation and chemotherapy treatments that Chris received. Chris, a former volleyball player, was in attendance to watch the spectacle and cheer on his friends.

Graphic By: Jasmin Bleu

O

n September 25, 2016, the Miami Marlins franchise received the worst news possible. Their star pitcher, their leader, their future, Jose Fernandez, died tragically in a boating accident. Fernandez was a man that all players, family members, and fans alike enjoyed spending time around as his presence beamed from miles across the room, whether it was his charisma, selfless character, or just how he played, all athletes, coaches, and watchers admired the way Fernandez took on the game of baseball.

Fernandez was always seen laughing, enjoying every second he had to play the sport he loved. His youthfulness in life and on the mound coined him the nickname “el nino” from his teammates. Though it’s been a year since his passing, Fernandez’s spirit is still felt in the stadium. News in sports media however took a tragic turn yet again when players and fans heard the unfortunate news that soon-to-be Hall of Famer Roy Halladay also passed away in November of 2017 from an unexpected plane crash. .

Similar to Jose Fernandez, Roy Halladay was respected as a fierce competitor. He took on every game like it was his last. He was crowned the nickname “Doc” as a reference to American gambler and gunfighter Doc Holliday. Though he wasn’t a fast pitcher, his pitching mechanics and his desire to win soon granted him the recognition as one of the greatest pitchers of all time.

Halladay is known for pitching in one of the best moments in baseball's history. In Halladay’s first playoff game he threw a no hitter that was like no other. He dominated the game right from the start and never let up. 203 wins, 3.33 earned run average pitching, and over 200 incredible innings in seven of his seasons was a testament to how durable he really was as a pitcher.

He was only the second pitcher in history to throw a no hitter in the playoffs. On May 29, 2010, Halladay of the Philadelphia Phillies pitched the twentieth perfect game in Major League Baseball history against the Florida Marlins. He retired all 27 batters, striking out 11. This was the first time in the modern era that a pitcher threw perfect games in the same month and that multiple perfect games had been achieved in the same season “Being a second baseman on the Charter baseball, I strive to work as hard as Roy Halladay. I remember watching every game he pitched, and I couldn't believe how good he was,” said senior Jorge Herrera.

Commitments Galore

Charter has seen two of its biggest commitments within the past year alone. Kelly Heron, a senior on the PC swim team, committed to Michigan State after having many D1 offers from other major swim schools. Junior Maxwell Romero, catcher for the Jaguars baseball team, committed to Vanderbilt after a breakout summer season.

State Championship Swimming

“Pembroke Pines Charter senior Andres Lares had a strong showing to lead the boys to fourth place at the FHSAA Class 3A Swimming and Diving State Championship... Lares received All-American consideration in the boys 500-yard freestyle and finished in third place with a time of 4:31.18” (Sun Sentinel)

“...I asked if it was raining when he got in. He laughed and said ‘No I just finished my workout.’ I knew right then- he was the real deal. Thank you Roy for allowing us to witness what it takes to be the best. We all miss you.”

- Vernon Wells, former Blue Jays teammate

A year after Jose Fernandez’s death the Marlins are still greatly impacted from it. Nevertheless, Marlins tried to go through the whole baseball season without a loss of spirit. Fernandez was known for his smile, and the Marlins missed it terribly in the dugout this year. One of the shining stars for the Marlins this year was Giancarlo Stanton. Stanton continued to rally all year, hitting home run after home run after home run. You could see the Marlins gathering around Stanton as he become the leader of the baseball team. The Marlins ended the season eight games under five hundred, but gained some hope. Stanton won the Most Valuable Player (MVP) in baseball, but with new management around the team, signs are pointing to Stanton getting traded this offseason. Jags centerfielder and senior Kyle Heim said, “Watching Fernandez play was truly an experience. He always brought an energy that was special only to him. You got to give credit to the Marlins and to how they played this year without him.”

Jose Fernandez and Roy Halladay were two amazing pitchers who changed the way the game was played simply by the way they pitched. They both brought a passion and energy that was truly unique to them. They always pitched their hearts out every game they were a part of. They both brought a leadership to their team that could never be replaced. Unfortunately, these two were lost in the Field of Dreams just too soon.

Jose Fernandez was honored throughout the 2015-16 & 2016-17 seasons as the Marlins wore a patch on their jersey sleeve and honored him 2 days after he died in a game against the Atlanta Braves. They wore the #16 Fernandez and laid their caps on the field after the game to commemorate his loss. The Marlins also made a large mural that has the number 16 on it to commemorate Fernandez. Roy Halladay’s legacy is yet to be seen how it will be honored by the teams. However, he was seen as a legend for several organizations such as the Blue Jays and the Phillies. It will be a spectacle to see when the teams honor the legendary ‘Doc.’

Sports 23

A Big Fish in a New Pond

CHARTER HIGH ACADEMIC TIMES

Alexa Infante

S

Managing Editor- Content

enior Kelly Heron lives her life with one foot on land, and on foot on water. As an eight year old, Heron was naturally drawn to the swimming pool, but with the push of her parents, she made her interest a hobby. Her strong dedication and passion have allowed her to make a name for herself in the swimming community. She has been recognized for her outstanding achievements at a high school level, but now, she will strive at a collegiate level.

“I committed to Michigan State University earlier this month and I’m super excited!! I’ve always wanted to go out of state, somewhere where there’s all four seasons, so when MSU offered me a swimming/academic scholarship, I accepted immediately,” commented Heron. The little girl who’s heart beat with the current of the water had officially accomplished one of her lifelong dreams. The Michigan State Swimming Program had kept an avid eye on Heron for around a year before her commitment. It only took one visit to fall in love. Any senior knows that deciding their future is no easy task, but when you have the choice to continue pursuing your passion in an ideal location, the decision becomes simple.

Aside from a scholarship, swimming has also granted Heron something money can’t buy-lifelong friends. Her swimming experience began at the City of Pembroke Pines Swimming Club. She may have fallen in love with the sport, but her new, compatible friends motivated her to stick with it. Heron was able to form even more friendships when she began swimming at PPCHS. “Swimming for the high school team has always been so much fun. The girls and guys on the team Photo Donated By: Kelly Heron made every year so memorable and I’m going to miss it so much,” said Heron.

Photo Donated By: Kelly Heron An intense swimming schedule allows her to be the athlete that she is. Kelly trains in the PPCHS pool on weekdays from 3:30 to 6:00 pm, on Saturdays from 7:00 -10:00 am and Monday, Wednesday, and Friday mornings before school from 5:00 - 6:30 am.

Looking towards the future Kelly’s goal is to place in the Big 10 Championship meet and break some of the records currently held at MSU. There is no doubt she will continue to exhibit her athleticism, poise, and incredible skill no matter what pool she is swimming in.

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24 Sports

Alai Araujo

Ashlyn Correa

or many, their sport is a passion and their life. But for Alai Araujo, it goes far beyond that. At the young age of 4, Alai started playing soccer, but it wasn’t until she turned 7 that she began to play with clubs. For the past two years, the student has been playing with Weston FC with the number 13 on her jersey. As a current sophomore, she has been on the high school’s varsity team for two years. Soccer has been the source of tons of joy and opportunities for Alai. “I love playing soccer because, as a midfielder, I feel like I get to control the game and decide what the next play will be. Soccer has also given me the opportunity to travel to other places,” she says.

The sport allows Alai to work with a team and reach a common goal. She must use her creativity, experience, and skill to ensure she is taking the right shots. As an attacking midfielder, Alai has high aspirations for this season, “This season will be better and that we can make it further than we did last year. We have new talent, as players who weren't on the team last year joined this year. Overall, I'm pretty excited for the upcoming season because we have some pretty tough games coming up but hopefully the team can work together to win,” says Alai. Last season the team made it to playoffs and only lost two of their regular season conference games. They were unfortunately eliminated in the quarterfinal round.

team can only go as far as its players take them and Ashlyn Correa has established herself as a leader on the PPCHS varsity soccer team. Her journey to this point has been promising with a lot to look forward to in her last year.

Soccer didn’t immediately appeal to Ashlyn, but her parents decided to sign her up anyways. That decision has not only made her parents proud but also the PPCHS family. At the age of 7, she was scouted for a travel team and it's opened up so many opportunities for herself. With those early years in the game, she began to find her true niche which is now center defense and center midfield. The experience she gained from being a part of a travel team has secured her a spot on the Varsity team in just her first year in high school.

For the past three years she has been coached and adored by her teammates but with this year being her last, she is eager to help out wherever she can. Uniquely, her senior year, she will get to be captain with her best friend. “The main difference is that I get to be the leader of the team alongside such a great friend, Morgan Robertson,” she says. Ashlyn has gained so much from playing soccer. The experience has changed her life for the better. Her character as an individual directly reflects from soccer as she believes, “Hard work is something I wouldn't have if it weren't for soccer.”

The memories Ashlyn has made in the past 4 years on the Jags soccer team have been bright and victorious. She plans on not only “Cherishing the experience,” but also looking forward to the future for all the doors she has opened for herself.

CHARTER HIGH ACADEMIC TIMES

SOCCER PROFILES

F

Mateo Hernandez

S

ophomore star soccer player Mateo Hernandez is making a name for himself on Pines Charter’s soccer team. Mateo started playing soccer at the age of 7 due to the influence from his friends and family. Mateo has an older brother who is a senior and also plays for Charter’s soccer team who helped him develop his skills at a young age.

Mateo first started playing recreational soccer as a midfielder. As his love for the game grew, he realized he wanted to play at a higher level of competition if he were to advance his skills. “I like the rush of playing soccer and how the ball moves so well. Since I first touched a soccer ball I had a deep love and passion for the game and hope to play for as long as I can,” said Mateo.

Mateo, a Jaguar at heart, also plays soccer on the West Pines travel team. He has played for West Pines for many years and claims that playing with the team helped him prepare to play high school soccer. “I love playing for the school team and being able to go out there and represent the school. We have a lot of great players on the team and I am grateful to be a part of it. I think we have what it takes to make it to states and we are all going to give it our all,” says Mateo.

The Jags are off to a great start to the season winning their first few games. Hopefully their success moves forward.

Maci Lopaka

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opaka is a starting left midfielder for the PPCHS Soccer Lady Jags and she plays a major role in the success of the team. Maci was always a hyper child who loved to be outside so, at the age of 5, her parents decided to put her in soccer. Immediately, she began to love the elegant game. Lopaka started playing travel soccer for West Pines United just 2 years after touching a ball of the first time. Instantly, she became a scrappy left midfielder known by her peers. She is a player with precise passing, crazy stamina, and immense toughness. Currently, Lopaka plays for West Pines United U19, and the PPCHS Jags. Lopaka said, “I am just so thankful to my parents for giving me the opportunity to play this amazing sport that I so dearly love. I know that playing this game is a privilege and every time I go out on the pitch I give every ounce of me for the people who raised me and the people that can play the beautiful game.” Lopaka and the Lady Jags look to improve on last year’s season in which they lost to rivals American Heritage in the Regional semifinals. This season should be fun as the Jags are on a revenge tour and look to improve upon their previous results and make a run at States.

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Yannick Blackman

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or senior Yannick Blackman, his passion and hunger for soccer started from a very young age. As he has been exposed to the game for most of his life, Yannick attributes his love for soccer to his father and siblings. “My dad and two brothers played soccer, so I was always at the soccer field and ever since then I’ve had love for it,” he said.

Proudly representing his Miramar travel team as #2 on the field- and Charter as #4- Yannick expresses that behind his success is all his hard work. “I train for the school team every day and practice for my travel team every Thursday. Practices usually last from an hour and a half to two hours,” he said. With his tight training schedule, he is left with little time for socializing. Yannick’s favorite part about tournaments, though, is getting to meet new people. “At game we play I meet new friends, I get to know a lot of new people,” he said.

As for pregame rituals, Yannick describes his only habit, “Every single game, right before the whistle blows I do a little prayer to my Lord.” A little prayer seems to have gone a long way.

Yannick hopes to continue pursuing his love for soccer after high school, as he is being recruited by Embry Riddle. This could be the next step in his journey to being a professional soccer player. Yannick’s story just goes to show that dedication and a passion for what you do can pave the way to continue fulfilling your dreams.

Matthew Gordon

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atthew Gordon is a freshman at Pines Charter and a member of the boys’ varsity soccer team. Matthew started playing soccer at the age of 4 and is currently a left back for the varsity team. For Matt, soccer isn’t just been a game or hobby, soccer is a way of life.

Ever since he first touched a soccer ball he knew his passion for the sport was unmatched.

Matthew, as well as the school team, also plays for Miramar United Elite FC. He started by playing recreational soccer and slowly but surely raised his level of competition. Matt loves the competitive nature of the game, but most importantly he loves leaving it all out on the field with his friends. “I like just being with my friends the most. Soccer is fun as it is, but doing it with my friends makes it even better,” said Gordon.

Matt sees many years ahead in his playing career and hopes it doesn’t end soon: “I want to play soccer until I physically can’t anymore.” Matt understands that as a freshman he will not play a lot, but wants to support the team to the best of his ability. “I just want to play as much as I can as a freshman and maybe even score a goal or two,” he says. He passionately believes that the team can win districts and even move on to states.

Sports

Jaz Farrell

Josh Jerome-George

ransferring schools with just your senior year left is difficult especially when you have to leave behind good friends and memories. Jaz Farrell has been tasked with that obstacle on top of the upcoming basketball season.

At just the age of 8, Jaz picked up the basketball and took off with it. With the inspiration of his father playing throughout his life, Jaz felt compelled to aim for the same. He built up the skills to become a well-rounded player and continue no matter the obstacle.

Jaz felt his way through various positions and finally settled in at shooting guard. Coming into his first year at PPCHS and senior year, he is set on becoming a leader for all of the underclassmen to follow. With just a couple months of bonding with his new teammates he has created, in his words, “A bond unlike any of my other years playing in high school”. Motivating him along the way are “the fans who cheer for me and the intense energy it brings to the game”. With his success the last three years of high school, he has acquired offers from collegiate programs: North Texas, Kennesaw State University, Marietta College, Brescia University, Utica College and Aurora University. With those offers he still has a strong mindset on staying humble and remembering that “You can’t win a game by yourself, you have to get everyone involved”. Jaz and the rest of his teammates are looking to do something that no Charter team has done before, win a state title.

bASKETBALL PROFILES

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25

CHARTER HIGH ACADEMIC TIMES

Josh Jerome-George started his basketball journey in 8th grade, and the amount he has

accomplished has brought him into the position he is in today. The travel team he mainly played for was Nike South Beach and he also used to play for his high school team at Everglades, “I didn't really like playing at Glades because it wasn't at the competitive level I was looking for.” He started to look at his other options, and Pines Charter was just the team he was searching for. “I transferred because at Charter the basketball team plays at a higher level, which will in return help me get better.” Josh plays multiple positions but he mainly plays shooting guard and small forward. Transferring was his first step in the right direction towards accomplishing his goal he's been chasing since middle school. His love for the game has not changed from when he was in middle school, but rather has grown and evolved as he improved and worked on his game. This drive keeps pushing him to do whatever it takes to make his dream come true. “I hope to win a state championship and win player of the year. I then hope to continue in college and play D1.” Since he has played with some kids already on the team, he was at ease with the switch. Knowing he had friends on the team would make the transition smoother. He loves his teammates and his coaches which is an essential part of a team’s chemistry. Josh’s expectations for this season are nothing but positive and him and the team are shooting for championships.

Ryan Murphins

Senior Ryan Murphins plays small forward, and his journey started in 6th grade. At

first he started playing for fun, but then he started training every day for hours. With all the training and hours he put in he made the West Broward team freshmen year. He also played on the Broward County Cougars travel team, “my love for the game is what has kept me motivated all these years” Every competition and every late night practice brought him great opportunities in the basketball community, and in the 2017 school year he received another opportunity, “I have been waiting on the list for Charter for 4 years, and I finally got accepted, so I immediately took the offer with gratitude.” He started practicing with the team and started developing that team chemistry they need to win.

Around hurricane Irma, however; things took a turn for the worst. When he was putting up shutters, a window shattered on him and he severed his median nerve and 3 other tendons. The doctors told him he would not be able to play for 8 months and he wouldn’t get feeling back in his left arm for up to a year, but that did not stop him, “9 weeks later I’m back on the court. It seems like a miracle but it just goes to show that if you put your mind to something and trust in God, anything is possible.” He is now practicing with the team every day and he is 100% ready to play in the upcoming season.

All Star Seniors Tackle Their Last Football Season Jordan Alberti Sports Editor

After a stellar season, Charter will have 3 All Star team representatives. These represnateatives are all seniors: Eric

Cumberbach, Jeremy Colon, and Alexander Tabraue. This is a prestigious honor for the players and their teammates as they get to celebrate their friends being able to be named to a prestigious club. The players were notified of their accomplishments by their outstanding coach, Coach Willis. These seniors will be part of an excellent group of seniors that helped lead the Jags throughout the year. The 2018 graduates are:

• • • • • • • •

Jaron Spaulding Panayote Rabias Tylr Pierre-Louis Steven Umbarita Alexander Tabraue Amir Ali Jeremy Colon Eric Cumberbach

26

Entertainment CHARTER HIGH ACADEMIC TIMES

Bests of the Year...

A “Wonder”ful Film Roselle Curiel

Entertainment Editor

1. Victory at the Emmy’s

“Wonder”

The 2017 Emmy’s take the title as one of the most influential shows, arguably, American entertainment history. The Emmy’s made history when the multi-talented Donald Glover became the first African American to win the award for Best Directing. In the same show, comedic genius Lena Waithe became the first African American woman to win the award for Comedy Writing.

2.Logic’s VMA performance

Logic took the stage at the VMA’s to perform his hit“1-800-273-8255.” The rapper was joined on stage by stars Khalid and Alecia Cara as they performed a song about a suicide awareness. He used the stage to declare his mission statement, saying that: “We must fight for the equality of every man, woman, and child regardless of race, religion, color, creed, and sexual orientation.”

3.Bruno Comes to Florida

B

ased off the book written by Raquel J. Palacio in 2014, Wonder follows 10 year-old August Pullman. Auggie is an ordinary boy who enjoys eating ice cream, riding his bike, playing Minecraft, and dreams about visiting space; however, he just doesn’t look ordinary. Being born with a facial deformity, the boy needed to have many surgeries that would help his abilities to see, hear, talk, and breathe. Auggie was homeschooled his whole life, until his mother, Isabel, decided it was the right time for him to enter school in 5th grade, when all students will be new.

The movie plot essentially forms around August and his struggles in his new school, and the factors surrounding it including: making new friends, dealing with bullies, and learning how to socialize with others after being homeschooled his whole life. At first, students are taken aback by his strange look, and overall they leave him alone. After helping him in Science class, August made a real friend out of Jack Will, a kind-hearted boy who realized Auggie might look different on the outside, but was just as funny and smart as anyone else. One boy named Jaeden, on the other hand, took an instant dislike for August the moment he realized he started making friends, and that’s when the bullying began. Stuffing mean notes in his locker, passing death threats to him in class, and making rude, passive-aggressive comments every time Auggie walked his way, Jaeden was relentless, though there was relief in the audience once he got punished by the principal.

There were many tear-jerking moments in the film. One was when Auggie was lying in bed, crying after a bad day in school. His mother comforted him, though he was frustrated and screamed out, “I wish I wasn’t so ugly!” Isabel immediately assured him that he wasn’t, and her saying that counted the most because as his mom, she knew him the most. Another was when Jack and August were chased down in the woods by 3 bigger kids, and almost beaten to a pulp, until the boys from their class showed up to defend them; the boys who joined Jaeden in his bullying of Auggie before.

The message of the movie is sprinkled out throughout different scenes, in the characters’ lines: “If you had the choice to be right or be kind, choose kind”, and “August cannot change the way he looks, so instead, we change the way we see”. Overall, this film showed great character development for everyone involved. Auggie became courageous, and no longer needed to hide behind a mask. His sister, Via, also came out of her shell, and patched up her relationship with her mother. Even Jaeden realized his mistakes and reformed by the end of the movie by being kind to Auggie. This film was somewhat life-changing, and the moments in it will stick with the viewer the next time they see someone like Auggie, who may look different, but is like all of us on the inside.

A Stranger Season Two Arianna Ozuna Staff Writer

“Stranger Things 2”

With Bruno Mars’ “24k Magic” coming out in 2016, which was his first album in 4 years, a return to Florida was long overdue. On October 15, the permed Puerto Rican/Filipino performed in South Florida once again. He graced the American Airlines Arena stage on October 15th and had crowds screaming in the BB&T Center on October 18th.

4.Ed Sheeran’s Album

Before Ed Sheeran’s release of his album “Divide,” he took a 13 month social media hiatus, trying to stay off the grid. January 1st, Sheeran broke his 2 year music hiatus and teased with soundless videos and gifs. March 3rd, Ed Sheeran finally released his album “Divide,” after his two singles “Shape of You” and “Castle on the Hill” shot up Spotify’s Global Top 50.

5.Beyoncé Announces Twins

On February 1st, Beyoncé took to Instagram to send the internet on fire. She announced her pregnancy with twins in a photo of her wearing a veil while sitting in a garden of flowers. The news of twins joining one of the most powerful families in the world of entertainment caused every fan to cheer. Welcome to the world Suri and Rumi!

The loveable cast of Netflix’s original series Stranger Things is back with a brand new season, bringing millions of dedicated watchers glued to their devices ever since it dropped. The science fiction drama has received ratings as high as 95% on Rotten Tomatoes and brought chills to viewers across the nation. Returning to the eerie town of Hawkins, the kids find themselves faced with a predicament as the character Will Byers, played by Noah Schnapp, begins envisioning a massive Demogorgon, which is what the show refers to as the monsters, looming over the town in hunger. New characters and much more have been introduced throughout the new nine episodes.

“This season had more character development, more lore, and a better use of each character...everybody actually did something or contributed,” Junior Zachary Thrasher praised, “there was great cinematography and they did an amazing job of capturing the 80’s. The dialogue was also great.” As the child actors were growing older outside of the show, their acting also grew along with them as their performance throughout the season were both stellar and gripping. Will Byers, a critical character to the show, had a particular scene in which he appeared to be shaking and gasping for air, almost animatronic-like. Many were surprised to find that no special effects were used, making the horrifying scene much more impactful.

“The cast seems to have become more in-touch with their characters, which makes the characters seem more real. You can see that they really love playing their characters, and I really love that. It makes the show even more enjoyable than it was before,” sophomore Jaden Crute stated. She went on to comment on the show’s character development and how Steve, played by Joe Keery, stood out as he, “went from being a jerk to becoming a ‘mom’ to the kids.” Overall, the character’s roles in the story felt more fulfilling and meaningful towards the progression of the plot.

More insight on the relationships and revelations of the past surfaced throughout the episodes, giving in-depth perspectives of each individual character. This allowed side characters to gain more screen time while also making contributions to the storyline.

Another new direction taken this season was the investigation into what is referred to as the “upside down.” While some questions were answered about the villainous area, much more seemed to surface. Shockingly enough, season three for Stranger Things has already been confirmed to be renewed on Netflix. With more seasons making way, it’s safe to assume that things will only get stranger!

What’s Your Favorite Holiday Movie?

Entertainment

CHARTER HIGH ACADEMIC TIMES

Swift Changes in Style

Grace Vanderwaal: A Singing Sensation

Swati Kumar

Technology Editor

Sofia Azcurra Staff Writer

“Just the Beginning”

“Reputation”

Taylor Swift’s latest album, Reputation, is truly mak-

ing its mark on the music industry. The star’s sixth album sold 1.04 million copies in the US after just four days of being released, putting her ahead of 2017’s previous biggest-seller, Ed Sheeran’s ÷.

Across the globe, Reputation is breaking a streaming record and is on its way to establishing a huge name for itself.

Released on November 10th, Taylor Swift’s album featured 15 songs.” “Ever since she announced the release date of her album I was ecstatic. I literally counted down the days until it was released,” exclaimed sophomore Danielle Porres, “This album is really different from the others because of its edgy style. That was what I was really looking forward to. It was the album’s most intriguing aspect, hands down!”

Swift’s Reputation varies in style from her previous ones. Earlier this year, there have been claims that Swift recruited Drake to help her make an album of edgier R&B and hiphop sounds. The album truly delves into mature themes and other relatively edgy topics that has since been uncharted territory for Taylor. “I certainly think the new Taylor swift album shows a side to her that we were totally not expecting. Her music and character has taken a huge turn,” claims Danielle. “Though I liked her initial style of country, I believe her new edgy style is something for the better because it attracts more people and she has been very successful with her pop music lately.” Almost ten years from the release of the album Fearless, all the way back in 2008, Taylor has shifted from a clean, perfect, country singer to one who is not afraid to dip her toes in the dark waters of the scandalous side.

However, not everyone is celebrating Swift’s newest style. This is also the first time in her career that Swift has dropped a curse word in her song rather than “damn” or “hell.”

Typically, Swift exhibits petty fate and uses her music to display romantic anguish. Now, Swift find herself playing catch-up with the current landscape of pop that is represented by complicated and moody young women. Before, Swift placed emphasis on the emotional precision of her words as well as the sentimental value and craft of her lines. As she has grown into her pop standing, Taylor has reduced on her expression and focused more on the desires and expectations of today’s imagined audience. Sophomore Naveen Farook states, “I think her music has changed significantly going from country to the current most modern form of pop music, but her old style definitely contained more heartfelt lyrics and a truer side of Taylor that has evolved into a more society shaped Taylor who doesn’t connect with the audience and me as much. Songs coming from the Fearless album were my favorite because of the truth behind her words.”

Having returned to the charts with her hit singles and latest album, Swift revealed that she’s heading off on a world tour in North America, UK, Ireland, Australia, and New Zealand and has announced the dates for her first leg of the tour in North America. “I'm really excited that Taylor Swift is touring North America,” states Danielle. “I'm really looking forward to seeing her perform my favorite song, ‘Look What You Made Me Do’, because it is extremely catchy the song really depicts how much Taylor has changed over these last couple of years.” she says.

The country singer turned pop star is truly reaching impressive numbers and building a new name for herself in the music industry with her latest album Reputation. Hopefully her reputation, which has evolved with this album, will be one appreciated and celebrated by her listeners!

A Jaguar’s Favorite “Habit” Isabelle Munoz Staff Writer

“The Habit Burger Grill”

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race Vanderwaal, the 13 year-old bundle of joy who became a singing sensation on America’s Got Talent in September 2016, has just released her first debut album.

She released Just The Beginning alongside her first concert tour. The teen earned wide-notice when she won the eleventh season of the show with her self-written songs, her voice, and her ukulele.

The captivating singer charmed the world at America’s Got Talent, but the vocalist has a history long before AGT. She began singing and composing songs at the bright age of three and knew her passion would turn into something much bigger. As an early teen she found her songwriting inspiration by watching TV shows or watching movies. Grace can often be seen singing with her iconic ukulele, which she found her love for by watching the popular duo, Twenty-One Pilots. Her passion officially began its climb to success when she began recording her songs on YouTube in 2015, where she also features her vibrant personality. “The fact that this little thirteen year-old brings such happiness and tears to someone’s eyes is truly inspiring,” stated freshman Derek Cortez. Soon after the ukulele-wielding singer won America’s Got Talent, her fame skyrocketed when she released her EP, Perfectly Imperfect. Her “trade-mark smoky voice” never fails to impress and bring emotion to her audience.

Upon auditioning for America’s Got Talent, she’s been a true song-writer since her youth, so it’s no surprise she composed her own song to perform on America’s Got Talent, famously known as I Don’t Know My Name. The prize wasn’t the only she took home but also a signed contract with Columbia Records and Simon Cowell’s Syco Records, putting her on path to becoming a distinguished star in her generation. Junior Janiya Nicole expressed, “Seeing such a young girl accomplish her goals really inspires me as a singer too and I feel like she’s doing it for so much more than just the fame and singing but to inspire other kids,” Grace has went on to build her fame with interviews like Ellen DeGeneres, and The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, and the 2017 Special Olympics, but recently landed headlines with her album, Just The Beginning.

The album features twelve of Vanderwaal’s songs, which she wrote alongside awardwinning producers and writers. It encompasses her quirky and lively personality. The album opens up with her first single Moonlight and captures a sincere tone while reminding the listener of the deep messages she intends to get across. Her album goes on to show off all kinds of exciting songs about her perfectly imperfect life. While it is very relatable, she not only crafts melodious sounds but tells a universal tale that tugs the hearts of all her fans. Her songs vary from wanting to dance in the bright and noisy streets of New York City with City Song and falling in a mesmerizing stance with Burned and its haunted piano that accompanies her pure vocals.

Her album surrounds a much more mature tone that kids of all age can relate too. Many stars seem to want to avoid their teen phases or want to show off an adult tone early.

Vanderwaal managed to defy that trend and create the best 13 year old persona in her album, in the best way possible. “She is so pure and I feel like she’s already doing it better than most current stars,” commented sophomore Leo Acosta. Beyond the album’s debonair style, Vanderwaal’s trademark ukulele can be heard in several of her songs.

There is a sweet aesthetic to Vanderwaal’s writing and singing in Just The Beginning that makes her easily digestible and catchy. Her quirky and outspoken album fits her raw vocal approach which she expresses in several songs in her album.

Hear the “Heartbreak on a Full Moon Janae McDonnough Staff Writer

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fficially establishing its eighth location in Florida, the Habit Burger Grill has faced some recent success.

As a result of the extreme popularity for their restaurant located in Plantation, The Habit Burger Grill owners decided to open one right here in Pembroke Pines. This new, delicious burger place can be found next to the Pembroke Gardens mall, right in the center of a long strip of restaurants.

At first glance, the Habit can be described as your typical, fast-food burger joint. However, the way they cook their burgers and what is offered on their menu defines it as something new, different, and arguably, better than most. Stepping into this California themed restaurant, you automatically smell the fresh burgers on the grill, and the scent alone makes you eager to take that first bite. The next thing you’ll notice is the variety of music, from throwback 80s like “WHAM!”, or west coast vibes from up-and-coming Khalid. Inside, it’s also clean and the setup is aesthetically pleasing to the eye. The restaurant truly had it all… especially when it came to food choices.

Their menu had a variety of options, not limiting to just burgers. They had sandwiches with your choice of meat, like chicken fried or grilled, steak, and tuna. If you are a proud animal lover, they also offered veggie burgers. They also served several types of salad, with one following their Californian theme named the “Santa Barbara Cobb”, which consisted of: iceberg and romaine lettuce, diced tomatoes, avocado, blue cheese, bacon and egg, tossed in their red wine vinaigrette, and topped with their grilled chicken breast. Of course, no menu would be complete without tasty desserts like shakes, malts, soft-serve ice cream cones, and sundaes.

The most popular dish is a seasonal meal, called the “Bourbon Bacon Golden Chicken Sandwich” which also comes as a burger. It consisted of their award-winning, handbreaded, golden fried chicken breast, topped with crisp, smoky bacon and a tangy bourbon glaze on a toasted bun with mayo, lettuce, tomatoes and pickles. Surprisingly enough, the sandwich was almost the size of someone’s head. Despite its intimidating size, it’s no wonder why the Bourbon Bacon Golden Chicken sandwich is the restaurant’s most recommended meal; the sweet, savory flavors all complimented each other.

Everything from the bourbon sauce to the pickles, created a mix of all different flavors that was to die for.

With its affordable prices and myriad of menu options, perhaps the Habit Burger Grill will become a huge success here in Pembroke Pines, too!

“Heartbreak on a Full Moon”

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hris Brown is a young man from Virginia that was well-known in his town for performing with the Church choir and participating in numerous talent shows. After his newfound success in the music world, he turned into one of the most well-known artists in the R&B and Urban Soul game. Christopher Maurice Brown, better known as his stage name Chris Brown, had just released his eighth studio album this year on Halloween named “Heartbreak on a Full Moon.” It features several well-known artists, such as Jhene Aiko, R. Kelly, Usher, and Future, and is one of CB’s longest albums, with 45 tracks counting for a total of 2 hours and 45 minutes’ worth of music.

While listening to the album, listeners can hear the different sounds Brown experimented with- from Pop and calm R&B to a fast-paced Rap speed, this track will make you want to get up and dance with your friends or just take a long solo drive with the music blasting in the background. “I love Chris Brown so much and I thought he would only have 27 tracks, but I’m very excited there are 45 tracks to listen and enjoy,” said senior Melissa Almonte. Brown also took a more personal take with his songs in this album. The first track on the album was named “Lost and Found,” and in this song he talks about a girl and how she plays too many games in trying to get back together with him. Another single released earlier this year, named “Privacy,” shows his sensitive side when he and a special girl spend time alone. On the other hand, he comes to show that he didn’t move away his classic style.

Introducing yet another shift in tone is “Tempo,” the ninth song on the album, which gives a hype beat that makes the bass boost out loud. “I thought Chris Brown did a great job with picking the songs to put on this album, and one my favorite songs is ‘Tempo’ because the beat in it makes me want to dance” said freshmen Evan Tobin.

With over two hours of music, “Heartbreak on a Full Moon” is sure to entice people, and with so many genres of music features on it, there is no doubt that there is a favorite song for everyone.

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28 Technology CHARTER HIGH ACADEMIC TIMES

Bests of the Year...

Samsung Galaxy 8

The CHAT Editorial: Too Techy For Decking The Halls?

Elizabeth Castillo Clubs Editor

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A redesigned smartphone with a dazzling screen, long battery life, and a great camera is just what 2017 needed. The phone has a better durability and an eye-catching screen that expands from edge to edge.

CRISPR Gene Editing

Many people seem to forget the quiet industry of medicine that keeps the nation in balance. A worldwide group of scientists used it to edit the dangerous MYBPC3 mutation out of a human embryo, preventing it from being passed on to future generations.

Nintendo Switch

On a less scientific note, the gaming world was estatic for the issue of the Nintendo Switch, amazing the world with the console’s grand masterstroke: it’s most striking detail. Being simply mobile and versatile, if the company gives a steady stream of games over the next year, the Switch may be an exemplar of things to come in gaming.

Microsoft Pro

Coming to surface and popularity is the luxury of touch screen computers, which Microsoft really captured in 2017 with its Microsoft Pro. This is a first for the company which created a more conventional laptop that runs a more efficient battery system and has the versatility of a tablet and a laptop.

SpaceX Falcon

An unprecedented achievement in spaceflight, this proved a huge milestone in 2017 since it was the first rocket to land fully intact on Earth after its first use and will be able to be used over again, an unknown world for space rockets.

he happiest time of the year is almost here! Maybe it was the teasing cool weather in early October, but South Floridians are highly anticipating the holiday season. Everyone seems to buying Christmas socks, getting recipes together, and enjoying their favorite holiday movies. Of course, the reason that people know what other people are up to is usually because of today’s most popular form of communication-social media. But, it begs the question: are teenagers too invested in technology to truly enjoy the holidays?

It’s no secret that social media has practically taken over the world. Especially since it’s so convenient to open up a social media app right on your phone, which goes with you wherever you go. Through Snapchat, you can visually see what other people are up to, since most teenagers are constantly updating their stories throughout the day. Even, if a teenager is not necessarily active, it’s more than likely he or she is still scrolling their feed all day. Holiday season is all about family, and being with loved ones. If you have ever been to a family party, take a minute and look around you. The teenagers are most likely on their phones, posting on Instagram, and not engaging with their family due to their faces being glued to the screen. “Technology takes away family time friend time whom you might not even see all year,” said sophomore Douglas Chin.

According to a study done by Common Sense Media, which is an organization based on family technology, teenagers spend almost nine hours a day on their phones (Washington Post). That’s more time than an average school day in America. Think about it. The amount of time it takes to capture a perfect selfie under the Christmas tree or at the dinner table on Thanksgiving, figuring out the best filter, writing a clever caption, and then posting it, probably takes up a lot of the time that teenagers could be spending with family. Every day, teenagers are constantly scrolling through their various apps of social media, so why would the holidays make them act any different? In a recent study conducted, researchers found that “nearly 20 million of the 225 million Twitter users follow 60 or more Twitter accounts and nearly 2 million follow more than 500 accounts.” (Pew Research Center) Some teenagers agree that the holidays can be ruined with the constant usage of technology. “Yes, I think especially girls, are busy trying to take cute pictures to post on Snapchat or Twitter, or they're posting pictures rather than spending time with their family,” said senior Brianna Rodriguez.

It’s not just phones that effect the holidays for teenagers, but other types of technology like Xboxes, iPads, and even laptops. Eighty seven percent of teenagers through the years of 2014-2016 have access to or own a laptop, and eighty one percent own or have access to a gaming console (Pew Research Center). We all know that technology has taken over our world, but was anyone expecting it to take over the intiGraphic By: Henry Severe mate family time during the holiday seasons?

However, many teenagers believe that there is no shame in technology being a prevalent part of the holiday season. “In this era and generation, technology runs the world. So naturally, kids will be and are entwined with technology. I’ll admit that I do use my phone more during the Holidays, but it’s because I post a lot more about my family,” said senior Aaron Sivlay. The overall concept of teenagers being too invested in technology instead of the holidays is a matter of opinion, but the one thing everyone can agree upon is that technology is a part of our lives, and there is no escaping it, not even during the holidays.

On the flip side, today’s generation of teenagers have become accustomed virtual connection all the time. During the holidays everyone wants to share their holiday pictures with the rest of the world. During this festive season, people are strutting their best clothes, and showing off what they got for gifts this year. Moreover, not everyone has family that lives nearby them, so technology is very helpful for families who live apart from each other. This is the case for junior, Denise Dookeran, No, I don’t think technology is ruining the holidays. I have family in different countries so I can talk to them due to technology.” Facetime, Skype, and even some social media apps can help you can keep up with your family member's holiday celebrations.

However, many people feel that there is a disconnection with family members. From the perspective of a blogger and mother, Carly Radiske, “We don't enjoy the moment we are in anymore. Every gathering has to be documented on camera or film and posted to social media right away. I completely understand wanting to save important and fun memories, but not every memory has to be in media form. Memories can live inside our heads.” (The Odyssey) Many people firmly believe that teenagers are too invested in technology, and because of that, they miss out on opportunities to make connections with other family members.

Technology can be very distracting. Many parents give their children new technology gifts that they open under the Christmas tree earlier in the day. Imagine this: your parents just got you the new iPhone or a brand new video game or laptop, and you would rather go and spend your time using that instead of talking to your aunts and uncles. “People aren’t focusing on what the holidays are really about. People are focusing on technology as gifts instead of other things,” said freshmen Andrea Vasquez.

An argument can be made that the root of the problem with teenagers using so much technology, specifically during the holidays, is that the parents are the ones who give their teenagers technology to use in the first place. The most anticipated gifts that parents are buying for their children this year are: the Nintendo Switch, Xbox One X, and the ASUS ROG Zephyrus GX501VS Gaming Notebook, according to Heavy. These are all tech products, so who really is to blame if teenagers are too invested in technology rather than the holidays?

Technology is a huge part of everyday life, and there is no exception when it comes to the holidays. Whatever you decide to do for this upcoming holiday season, either taking a thousand photos, or being a part of a wacky tradition your family does every year, remember to look up from your screen and enjoy some quality family time. Make the most out of this holiday season, no matter how you celebrate it!

Free Shipping on Holiday Spirit Arianna Ozuna Staff Writer

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s the holiday season fast approaches, finding gifts to buy can become increasingly more difficult. Some may find joy in surrounding themselves with the gaudy and flashy holiday decorations that are on display while going to look for a gift in store.

On the other hand, it may become troublesome for many when life and busy schedules get in the way of the gift selection process, and making a quick click on the 2-day shipping button on many online sites becomes much more convenient- and enticing.

With online shopping becoming more of a popular option for consumers, there is a growing concern that in-store sales are dropping at a steady rate with the idea of ‘holiday spirit’ also slowly fading away. With more store business moving online during the holiday season, less physical space for retail stores are needed. “Online stores are more convenient for me because I’m not always able to just drive to the store; it just fits into people’s schedules better. I think the digital stores will force retail stores to find another way to draw in customers to their physical stores. If not, it will obviously hurt them significantly in the near future,” predicts junior Brendan Dubuisson. With just the holidays alone, the Morning Consult polled from 2,201 American citizens that 36% shop in stores for the holidays, while 31% engage in online shopping. A smaller but just as significant 23% claimed to do both regularly. In 2015, the Daily Mail also polled that days before Christmas, 50 million Americans had not even started their gift shopping, only reinforcing the need for online shopping. This also brings some to think that occurrences such as this will cause holiday shopping to lose its spark, becoming limited by a simple search on Amazon. “There’s a certain feeling of joy that comes when shopping during the holidays,” sophomore Crystal Nguyen stated. “Gifts are gifts, but it’s the thought that counts.”

The warm and bubbly feeling that comes from picking out a toy for a younger sibling or a new necklace for a parent will be overshadowed by the blandness of online shopping. “Christmas shopping is supposed to be something exciting, and it can’t be replaced by simply buying something online. It’s just not the same,” expressed Junior Bryanna Caponigro. While online shopping is becoming more of a convenience, it’s causing many to forget what it’s like to go out and put time into selecting a personalized gift. Holiday shopping is full of joy and wonder, making it more meaningful to go in store than simply shopping online.

A Merry-Techy Christmas

Technology 29

CHARTER HIGH ACADEMIC TIMES

Florencia Azcurra Staff Writer

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n the ever evolving world we live in, it’s not a surprise technology has found a way to change the way we “holiday.” In welcoming the presence of tech amongst our holiday spirit, we have also welcomed new traditions, shopping tactics, and well, let’s just say a very techy way of getting through the holidays.

It may not seem not like it, but people used to enjoy actually going to the mall and looking for gifts, but nowadays e-commerce has us all in its grasp with two day shipping deals and the stay at home factor.

Our holidays have been made easier and greater with online shopping. Whether it be that you can buy more items in bulk in a matter of seconds or you just simply forgot to even get a gift, online shopping is convenient when you want it to be. “Online Shopping has really benefited the holidays. It is good in a sense that it allows obscure products to actually be a visible gift idea,” says senior Gabriel Moljo. When it comes to technology and holiday time, online shopping is by far the biggest factor. It allows for anyone anywhere to buy a gift, and compared to the time before ecommerce, technology has expanded our gift ideas and availability as well as minimized stressful mall parking and overcrowded car trunks, leaving us in the comfort of our computers. Besides, it makes both the stores and us happy!

A smaller evolution than e-commerce has played a rather important role in the spirit of the holidays. Evites, social media holiday cards, and even long distance phone calls- you name it- have impacted the holidays Graphic By: Disney probably just as much as online shopping. “Technology has affected our holidays in such a positive way.

You see, all of my family is in Venezuela, so I don’t get to spend the holidays with them. But thanks to long distance phone calls, virtual cards, and things like FaceTime, we can communicate and kind of be together,” says freshman Aitana Arvelo. It may not seem like it, but things not even targeted for the holidays have come into play to make them easier and better. With the help of advanced technology, having access to distant family has become less of a problem.

Not to mention, the planning of parties and simple messages of well-wishers have also become faster and more efficient.

Vacation time during the holidays could drive some up the wall with stress and anxiety. But thanks to technology, it’s made traveling much more accessible to everyone. “Traveling has changed so much in the face of technology,” says sophomore Abigail Maíz. “It’s enabled more information about other places, cultures, and customs to be accessed.” With this pleasant change, it’s opened many opportunities to people willing to try new things. Like anyone might know from a Home Alone movie, the airport is a madhouse during the holidays. We now have advanced technology to thank for fast booking, easier baggage check, and greater entertainment.

As if Christmas couldn’t get any better, technology has managed to even captivate Disney into producing the show, “Starbright Holidays -- An Intel Collaboration.” The show will begin on November 20th and end on January 8th. This is completely new holiday experience for both Disney and its thousands of visitors consisting of 300 drone shows that would illuminate both the sky and the people watching. Along with this massive show, the park will accompany the largest drone show ever put on in the U.S. by full orchestra recordings of Disney originals. They have really outdone themselves. The advancements of technology have allowed for major corporations like Disney to please their guests in ways we never thought possible. While it’s nothing compared to Disney’s powerful drone show, the watchers of the world have also taken to making a techy twist to their holiday decorating.

“Technology has really affected holiday decorating, but in a good way. Now there’s all these cool lights and projections that people use, and some people decorate enough that we go visit their houses to see,” says junior Shayne Tyrell. Thanks to technology, many houses are now illuminated with LED projections, moving, lit up deer, and twinkling snowflakes.

The holidays are really a time for spirit and joy; technology has brought people just that and so much more. While yes, in occasions it could take away family time with kids nowadays being glued to their phones, in its entirety, technology has essentially benefited how we “holiday.” It’s brought us new developments that sometimes we don’t nearly appreciate enough, like the simple picture with Santa at the mall that we took as children and can keep in our memories and cherish for Christmas’s to come.

Black Friday Gets Technical Brianna Butler Staff Writer

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ne of the most anticipated days of the year entails irresistible deals that are impossible to obtain any other day of the year: Black Friday. Customers are yearning to get their hands on products for lower prices– some even willing to go as far as waiting in line for multiple days prior to a store’s opening.

Now, technology stands as a major occupant in the profits of Black Friday, serving as one of the top ranking areas of sales as well as a medium of selling items through which purchase is becoming increasingly popular today.

A variety of local stores, for instance Brandsmart and Best Buy, have reported that crowds were both smaller and more laid back than normal this year compared to previous years. Although there were well over hundreds of people in many of these tech-related stores, there has been a small decrease every year, stemming from the fact that people are beginning to use the internet to find what they are looking for. Online shopping has reached a new record for 2017, and a total of $5.03 billion dollars has been made with mobile devices helping reach over $2 billion alone. Retailers say that among the top five items bought during Black Friday are related to technology; making the list as some of the most wanted items are smartphones and tablets. Companies such as Brandsmart especially observed the popularity and high purchase of various televisions and Bluetooth speakers during Black Friday.

Graphic

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Michae l Per Sophomore Chiamaka Osakwe and her family searched for techy gadgets on Black Friday at ez both Costco and BJ’s, purchasing a brand new PlayStation 4 and iPad Pro. They were able to save $200 dollars for the PlayStation and the iPad Pro’s price was lowered by $65. In Chiamaka’s opinion, sales in technology are one of most important aspects of this holiday: “I feel like people have always shopped for electronics the most, since items related to technology are extremely popular, especially in today’s society. Instead of shopping for toys or figurines, the newer generation focuses more on buying the latest electronic. At the same time, electronics are extremely expensive compared to other things. This is why I think most people would probably take advantage of Black Friday to get phones and televisions as opposed to clothes.” Luckily for Chiamaka, some sales carried on to the weekend as well, and her family was able to buy a new television too, saving $250.

Initially named for its chaotic nature, Black Friday is infamous for its typical traffic accidents and massive crowds of people shoving through the aisles of stores. However, the holiday no longer has to be spent solely inside shops or malls. Customers are increasingly starting to turn to their computers to shop. Freshman Julie de Deus proudly states that she is one of those customers, showing a stronger preference towards clicking “add to cart” rather than waiting in extremely lengthy lines to pay. This Black Friday, she used websites like Amazon, Shein, and Pink to shop to her heart’s content for clothes, pillows, anklets, and necklaces. These astoundingly low prices are sometimes more extensive online than in stores. With better deals online, Julie was able to buy both a Pink shirt and a pair of leggings for twenty dollars less than their original prices.“To me, everything seems to be transferring online. There’s no more hassle or long wait to get what you need. Just a click of a few buttons, and you’re done,” exclaimed Julie.

She also expressed her excitement for Cyber Monday, an extension of Black Friday which gives online shoppers another opportunity to find and purchase the products they long for at a cheaper price.

Cyber Monday focuses on the digital world, the day purely dedicated to finding the best deals online. Experts believe that 2017 will have a major increase in sales; it is believed that $6.6 billion will be spent online (almost 17% more than the sales in 2016). It is even expected to exceed Black Friday by a billion dollars due to nearly 90% of online retailers offering Cyber Monday discounts and sales being so high because of the boom in social media promotions.

Evidently, both Black Friday and Cyber Monday benefit the economy immensely. Due to how drastic the change in prices may become, consumer interest is at an all-time high on these two dates. Shopping is encouraged in the name of saving money. According to a survey by the National Retail Foundation, around 152 million people purchase items during this time, accounting for half of the population in the United States. Due to the massive amount purchased, billions of dollars are put into the circulation.

The current world of technology is standing as a major shareholder of Black Friday’s economic success. Every year, electronics sell out quickly as the usually expensive devices have deals that go down by hundreds of dollars, much to the delight of today’s technologically savvy society. Technology is also being used as a platform for the sale and purchase of Black Friday items without forcing people to be a part of the mayhem that comes with physically going into packed stores. With tech holding the reigns of Black Friday, lines are not as long as they used to be, and electronic sales rank close to number one.

30 Technology

Changing in a Snap, Snapchat Updates its Software CHARTER HIGH ACADEMIC TIMES

Janae McDonnough Staff Writer

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n our generation, social media is one of our main means of communication, one that is easily accessible from our smartphones. Among the most popular social media are Facebook, Twitter Instagram, and of course, Snapchat.

There have been complaints about some difficulties in accessing and using Snapchat. For example, streaks are disappearing for no reason, days of the week filters are not showing up, saved videos are being deleted, and when you’re trying to send a post to a friend, it doesn’t actually deliver. Hence, the creators of this popular app are trying a new things to make it more user friendly. The CEO Evan Spiegel said that the new adjustment to the social media might lower the business for a short term. Snapchat’s producers also believe that the upgrade will attract new customers and make it easier for current users. The creators are hoping that the readjustment for this app will make it more competitive with other social media.

“Snapchat is one of my favorite apps to use because I get to see what everyone that I know is doing, but Snapchat SNAPPED: Snapchat’s upcomI’m not surprised that they’re changing it up a little bit for the new users since adding new things to an app can often improve it for the better,” said junior Martin Berti. Snapchat incorporation has planned to redo ing updates and new additions has gotten everythe app to attract android users as well. The CEO stated that he wants to make the perks of the apps that are one ecstatic and looking forward to it. unknown become more prominent for users, meaning the company is trying to make the quality better for Photo By: Justin Dourvetakis the android users while still keeping Snapchat’s unique aspects. By taking this risk, the creators can hopefully sustain their business for a longer period of time.

The new version of Snapchat aims to improve in creativity and originality in order to create a more attractive and financially beneficial app. It was announced on AdAge.com that Snapchat faced a loss of $433 million and the snap glasses that was released didn’t make as much money as was expected.

“I believe that the new update on Snapchat will be very beneficial. I am a frequent user of Snapchat and one of the problems that I realize I keep having is the slow network of the app even when I have Wi-Fi and the glitching that causes to lose my streaks. I love that there is a new update. It will make it so much better and more stable,” said freshman Chrysteannah Williams. “I simply cannot wait!”

Graphic By: Snapchat

With these new additions to the app new users might find Snapchat easier to maneuver. As of the meeting conducted by the CEO on Tuesday, no date has been announced as to when the update would be up due to the current testing of the app. However, it is something Snapchat users can look forward to very soon! Snapchat’s new update may truly help make the app easier to utilize for its old as well as its future users, increasing its popularity and making it more competitive than ever.

Charter Receives Brand New Security System Sophia Cortes Staff Writer

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he Pembroke Pines Charter system has been around for more than ten years now, equipped with computers, AC, and surveillance system that have inevitably gotten outdated. Now that we are in need of new equipment, all of the Pembroke Pines Charter campuses will be receiving an upgraded video surveillance system in the upcoming months, one that will consist of 187 new digital cameras and 113 digital cameras to replace the analog ones we currently have. As the new system got funding approved last week by the city commissioners, it is planned to be running by April of 2018 (Sun Sentinel).

The new system will not be monitored 24/7. However, as Officer Robert Scopa states, “It should allow us to see more of the campus and target areas of concern. [The new system] should also eliminate blind spots and allow the Police Department to monitor it in real time from off site.” In addition, the new system will have outdoor and indoor cameras with covers, cameras that offer a 360-degree view, and “bullet cameras” that are meant to focus on one area. The improved system is going to provide 40 percent more coverage and is meant to last for 16 years, as reported by Brian Ballou from the Sun Sentinel.

Graphic By: Justin Pierce

Sophomore Nicholas Naylor strongly believes that the upgrades are going to better improve the school. “[The upgrades] are going to help students know what is going on around the school,” explains Naylor. He also thinks that the new cameras will help the school make sure that the students stay on campus during classes and prevent any wrongdoings from PPCHS students in general.

Since Academic Village is a large campus consisting of both the middle and high schools, we will be getting around 95 of the new cameras that will replace the old outdated system, and more outdated technological systems of the school are being replaced. “Many of our original systems for cameras, bells, and intercoms are from when our school opened in 2000,” says Principal Bayer. “So, 17 years later, we do have areas in need of an upgrade.”

Students can also finally breathe a sigh of relief that the old bell and intercom systems will be ungraded alongside the camera system. For a couple of years now, various buildings have not been able to listen to any announcements made on the intercoms, and students have been late to class or released too early due to the faulty bells ringing at the wrong times.

Junior Danielle Macias expresses how happy she is that the new system is coming soon and how it has been difficult for both students and teachers with the current defective system.

“Many of my classes either have no bells or the bells ring at the wrong time, confusing everyone,” Macias says. “Now, with these upgrades, that won’t be a problem anymore, and I might even be able to listen to the morning announcements during homeroom!” Unfortunately, even the people who actually get to hear the morning announcements don’t understand what is being said due to the bad quality of the intercoms, so students can certainly look forward to much better quality now! Macias also explains how students can now feel better protected and more reassured now that we will be having a surveillance upgrade, especially in light of the recent attacks made in Las Vegas and Texas. “It’s honestly good to know our security is being upgraded,” she states.

The new technology’s installment allows cameras to monitor areas that were previously blind spots, making it easier to spot any unauthorized personnel leaving or entering any of the campuses. Staff member Alicia Torres strongly believes the improved security system “will make the school safer for sure, because whenever there is more of a process to get in [the school] everything is more secure.”

New System Secures the School: The school’s enhanced security system ensures teachers and students that they will remain protected while on campus.

Photo By: Justin Dourvetakis

The new intercom and bell systems that our Academic Village campus will be receiving eliminate the problems of mixed up bells and unclear morning announcements, helping students’ day to day lives run at a smoother pace. “Students probably won’t notice much of a day to day difference other than the bells ringing in the correct time and places, but of course it will make our school and campus a much safer place,” claims Principal Bayer. As recognized by much of Charter’s staff, students, and security, Pembroke Pines Charter’s latest security system will provide an extra set of precautionary measures that can transform our campuses into safer learning environments.

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32 Lifestyle

Bests of the Year...

CHARTER HIGH ACADEMIC TIMES

New Businesses Strip Boasts Hangout Spots for Students!

Just across the street, the delicious smell of Dunkin Donuts and Pasquale’s Pizza calls out to students at the end of the day. Not in the mood for either of those? Luckily, Brain Freeze and their unique, nitrogen-blended ice creams are available too!

How to Conquer College Apps

The stressing-out month of November counts the days until the dreaded college apps are due.

It’s even more miserable when a senior doesn’t know the first place to start. Luckily, newspaper has your back, and we offered some useful tips that saved a lot of seniors!

Popular 2017 DIY Halloween Costumes

Costumes can often be costly for students. Luckily, there are ways to make the perfect Halloween outfit for less! Popular 2017 costumes students chose to ‘DIY’ consisted of the popular Pennywise the clown from the scary movie of the year, “IT,” and their favorite new Disney princess, Moana.

Celebrities at the 2017 MET Gala

A Light at the End of the Tunnel Florencia and SofiaAzcurra

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Staff Writers

s high school students struggle to meet project due dates, and cram for AP exams, under all that stress lies something deeper within every student. On top of all the issues students have, one might imagine that home is a safe haven for every student to go to, but for some it might be an entirely different situation.

Family issues are a topic most don’t particularly like to talk about, but sometimes letting it all out is easier to get those problems out of your crowded brain, and off your chest.

Whether it be a divorce, sibling issues, moving away or the death of a beloved, someone will always be there to listen.

“My parents split up when I was around 6 to 7 years old. Their divorce kind of hit me hard.

I knew they fought a lot, but I always liked having all of us in one house, as a whole family,” commented anonymous. “I remember eventually coming to an understanding about the issue when I spoke to my aunt about it.” Friends, or even other close family members can aid with coping. Addressing the fact that there is an issue or conflict with someone can remove negative impacts, like stress in the future or often controlling your behavior or reactions is a better way to prevent the situation from escalating. Generally, if it’s a minor issue it’s better to not run away from the problem and be the bigger person and apologize. A lot of times compromising and keeping a positive attitude can work, listening to the other person and or propose your own faults can show that you're willing to move past the situation as seen on familyissues.com. This can often times relieve anger and stop a bigger situation from forming.

Senior Jerome Benoit stated, “School and other things influence a lot of young kids and it can lead to big issues so I think talking to yourself or checking with your feelings daily is good.” As long as someone is there to listen to your venting and give you advice. Even if there isn’t anyone particularly close to you, a guidance counselor will do just fine considering they are there for any problems you may have.

Of course, there are common family matters and then there are the more serious issues. Dealing with the bigger problems can be harder, that’s why if the situation gets too out of you control, you should contact an adult who can help you find help or even allow yourself to seek aid from a therapist suggested the University of Tennessee's counseling center. Here are the prevention hotlines for anyone who wants to look for support or assistance: 1-800-273-8255 - Suicide prevention hotline,

1-800-448-4663 - National Youth Crisis Hotline, 1-800-799SAFE - National Domestic Violence Hotline. The all too common occurrence when the death of a close one take place, or the many instances where a student has a family complication in their life affects others more severely. “Changing the way you think about the issue is a major key,” stated the University of Minnesota. Making it bigger than it really is, or vice versa can in the end, affect your self-esteem or your performance in school or in extracurriculars. Even if that doesn’t work, resorting to drawing, writing, or watching a movie can always temporarily take your mind off things. “I do a lot of extracurricular activities that sometimes stress me out and like all parents, mine are a bit overbearing at times which really frustrates me. So I turn to writing.

I write all my problems and it just helps me let all of it out,” mentioned freshman Valentina Terry. The easiest and simplest of hobbies can be an outlet.

Sometimes not coming to terms with a major issue can have its negative influences.

Bottling up your feelings can lead to severe mental and physical isGraphic By: Justin Pierce sues. This isn't to scare teenagers but diseases like depression are severe and there are ways to prevent them.

Most of the time, someone battling an inner demon sees no way out but there typically always is a way out. Some experts like the University of Minnesota, suggest that acknowledging emotions, especially distressing ones, and airing them from time to time is an important component of mental health. Sophomore Vanessa Angel stated, “A lot of home issues can lead to this but so can things like bullying. I feel like talking to your parents can often be the help someone was searching for, I mean a lot of kid’s say nobody understands but you never until you talk.” In our culture, people quickly feel guilty or ashamed when they appear as being overly negative or critical. We are biased toward positive thinking, which is worth cultivating, but problems arise when people start believing they must be upbeat all the time. It's important to acknowledge that your parents are your strongest role models so speaking to them can help issues you face at home.

Whether it be a small common problem like stress or one that more teens are facing everyday like depression or other issues, helping yourself can and addressing the conflict can be the biggest step you can take to finding the light at the end of the tunnel.

Holiday Hotspots: All the best places to get festive attire on a budget Ainsley McCormick Student Life Editor

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The annual Gala is most popular for its dress code of avant-garde, extraordinary clothes, and celebrities of all calibers attend to win awards.

The real show, however, is on the red-carpet where the A-listers reveal their highly anticipated outfits!

Ingredients in Makeup Products to Avoid!

Things like parabens, talc, phthalates, and more can cause damage to your skin, hair, and hormones. A woman sued Johnson & Johnson because she contracted ovarian cancer while using their baby powder. Stay informed of these hazardous cosmetic products in an effort to stay consciously healthy!

ith Christmas, Hanukkah, and Kwanzaa just around the corner, along with the chilly air of December, students are anticipating the seasonal decorating and shopping that usually occurs around this time of the year. As popular items begin to be put out for purchase, word travels around about the cute, trendy, and festive new items that are available for sale in stores.

Malls like Pembroke Gardens and Pembroke Lakes are beginning to decorate for the holidays and stocking up on warmer clothing, alongside stores located on Pines Blvd that are also preparing for the holidays in a particular fashion. “I’ve begun to see holiday items pop up around Pembroke Pines, and I’m really excited. Even before Halloween Pembroke Lakes mall was decorated,” said junior Johnathan Lynch.

Though people are welcoming the holiday season with full frenzy, there is no doubt that this time of year can accumulate quite the expense. Here’s a list of local storefronts that won’t hurt your wallet, but will instead put a smile on the face of your friends and friendly with the unique, inexpensive gifts you can purchase for them this season.

Located in the Westfork plaza, Five Below is an affordable store location and has a variety of holiday themed items; everything you can think of from solar reindeer bobble heads to 3 ft tall candy cane decorations can be found in stock. With items sold at $5 or less, this is an ideal spot for high schoolers to purchase gifts for friends and family, too.

Travelling down Pines Blvd. to Pembroke Gardens, Old Navy is a great store to purchase comfortable and festive themed pajamas. Inside the store, a whole wall has been set up to display the variety of pajama bottoms, including pants with snowflakes, polar bears, and nutcrackers. Currently on sale for $10, students are raving about these pants, and purchasing a matching pair with friends is a fun way to take advantage of this deal while gifting a unique present. Old Navy also makes sure to have sweaters and winter coats on sale for when the cooler weather rolls around too.

A little further down Pines, Target has transformed itself to a holiday superstore. Students have probably seen others wearing adorable fuzzy socks, which are most likely from Target. At the front of the store are fuzzy holiday socks being sold for just $1 per pair. “My three friends and I all got matching fuzzy socks. We are all going to wear them one day. I’m going to wear them all the time because they are so comfortable and cute. I think it’s a great deal that they were only $1,” said junior Gisselle Claros. In addition, Target is selling a 12 Days of Socks box, which acts as an advent calendar but with a new pair of socks each day, for $15. This is a great gift for friends, siblings, or just to enjoy for yourself.

Although Florida’s weather may not get below 70 degrees most days in the winter time, students may still take this lower temperature as an opportunity to wear the winter attire that is so rare to Floridians. These few stores give students the affordable options to go all out for the holidays, so Photo By: Maya Cabrera check them out!

Lifestyle 33

New Year, New You: Horoscopes for 2018 CHARTER HIGH ACADEMIC TIMES

Ariana Ortiz Staff Writer

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he New Year is all about new beginnings, and as we look into 2018 many of us are anticipating to start the year in a positive way. These astrological predictions- based off of the position of the planets, the Sun, and the Moon at your time of birth- will give you a glimpse of what's in store for you this upcoming year.

Aries (March 21 - April 19): Look forward to success, praise, and pleasure, Aries! Settle down and work relentlessly toward career and self-improvement goals. Prepare to rule. Everyone can benefit from some self-improvement. Emerge as a better, brighter, and stronger you.

Libra (September 23-October 23): The focus is on you for 2018, Libra. Be prepared for people to look to you for advice and leadership. It will be easy and it will come naturally, so relax and enjoy the attention. Exercise your authority with grace and generosity. This gives people more reasons to respect and love you.

Taurus (April 20- May20): Rock your world in 2018! Your ruling planet Venus is one of the best connected and most powerful forces in the sky this year. Venus is supercharged on New Year's Day, and so are you. Your goals and aspirations will not be denied. Make them big and noble.

Scorpio (October 24- November 21): You're a powerful person and a force of nature in 2018, Scorpio! The year begins with your planet Mars conjoined with influential Jupiter in Scorpio. Once you decide on a plan of action, nothing and no one will be able to slow you down.

Gemini (May 21- June 20): Welcome to the bustling and beautiful 2018, Gemini! It's a year for you to start new projects and begin exploring new avenues in life.

Expect 2018 to bring you improvements and changes in direction in your social life and career. You could step into a new world.

Sagittarius (November 22- December 21): Enter 2018 moving in high speed and accelerate from there. Your planet Jupiter is powerful and ambitious and will keep you going full blast in the direction that moves you forward.

Capricorn (December 21 - January 19): Life makes more and better sense in 2018, Capricorn. A clearer perspective will make it much easier to achieve your goals and dreams.

Don't dwell on difficulties or obstacles. Methodically work your way through them and emerge better organized and more respected than ever.

Aquarius (January 20-February 18): The year 2018 is full of changes and they will make you more influential and important. You may not always take yourself seriously, but please take what you do seriously. If you do, you will see great progress and success this year.

Cancer (June 21 -July 22): The year 2018 is an open book for you, Cancer. You have access to all that the stars have to offer. If it's work, family, finances, love, or anything else, there will be a planet ready to give you a hand.

Leo (July 23- August 22): The year 2018 blazes with energy, challenges, and opportunities of the most practical and far-reaching kind. You're looking at a golden year, Leo! What you achieve in 2018 can be made to last. Plan and proceed wisely.

Virgo (August 23- September 22): Virgo, 2018 is your year to get intense! Intensity has its ups and downs, and you can make the most of the ups while coping skillfully with any downs. And yes, it's a socially busy year. Enjoy it all!

Graphic By: Taylor Causey

Pisces (February 19 - March 20): The year 2018 is one for hard work, and the stars are working hard for you. On New Year's Day, the moon, Mars, Jupiter, and Neptune are all in water signs. You will have keen sensitivities and sharp insights and intuition all year long.

Festive Treats and Holiday Sweets Isabella Munoz Staff Writer

With the holiday’s right around the corner, what better way to get into the spirit than to start off in the kitchen! Bring your family and friends together this season with these fun and delicious desserts (and fill their tummies too)!

Gingerbread Cookies

Holiday Tree Brownies

INGREDIENTS

DIRECTIONS

INGREDIENTS

DIRECTIONS

• 6 c all-purpose flour • 1 tbsp baking powder • 1 tbsp ground ginger • 1 tsp ground nutmeg • 1 tsp ground cloves • 1 tsp ground cinnamon • 1 c shortening, melted and cooled slightly • 1 c molasses • 1 c packed brown sugar • 1/2 c water • 1 egg • 1 tsp vanilla extract

1.) Sift together the flour, baking powder, ginger, nutmeg, cloves, and cinnamon. Set aside.

2.) In a medium-sized bowl, mix together the shortening, molasses, brown sugar, water, egg, and vanilla until smooth. Gradually stir in the dry ingredients until they are completely mixed in. Divide dough into 3 pieces and pat down each piece until 1 1/2 inches in thickness. Wrap dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 3 hours.

3.) Preheat oven to 350 degrees. On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough out to 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes with cookie cutters. Place cookies 1 inch apart onto an ungreased cookie sheet.

4.) Bake for 10 to 12 minutes in the preheated oven. When the cookies are done, they will look dry, but soft to the touch. Remove from the baking sheet to cool on wire racks.

When cool, frost cookies.

• 1 box Betty Crocker Supreme original brownie mix (and ingredients call for on box) • Store-bough vanilla frosting (16-oz container) • Green food color • Red and green candy sprinkles or miniature candy-coated chocolate baking bits • Miniature candy canes (2 in)

1. Heat oven to 350°F (325°F for dark or nonstick pan). Line 9-inch square pan with foil so foil extends about 2 inches over sides of pan. Grease bottom only of foil with shortening or cooking spray.

2. Make brownie mix, with ingredients called for, as directed on box. Pour brownie batter inside pan and bake for 35-40 mins. Test brownies with a toothpick. Once cooked, let brownies cool completely. Remove brownies from pan by lifting foil, and peel the foil away. Cut brownies into triangles.

3. Stir green food color into vanilla frosting.

Spoon frosting into small, sealable foodstorage plastic bag. Cut off tiny bottom corner of bag. Squeeze bag to pipe frosting over brownies. Sprinkle with choice of chocolate candy or sprinkle decorations.

4. Break off curved end of candy cane and insert straight piece into bottoms of triangles to recreate tree trunks.

34

News CHARTER HIGH ACADEMIC TIMES

Bests of the Year...

Helping Neighbors 1,024 Miles

Madison White Steps into a New Life Ariana Ortiz Staff Writer

Despite the destruction Hurricane Harvey left in its wake, citizens from all across the country banned together to help Texas. Relief efforts were issued, as people from as far as 1,000 miles away tried to help in their own way.

An Opportunity to be Great

Madison White, PPCHS sophomore, seems like the average girl walking down the hall, but many don’t know her

Freshman Sophia Ortega spent her summer volunteering at the Active Community Health Care Center. She worked three times a week, for five hours each day, with kids who are having a hard time. She hopes her contribution, made a difference in the kids’ lives.

A black lives matter group and Trump supporters peacefully met at the Mother of All Rallies. Despite their differences, a black lives matter group was welcomed and offered the chance to express themselves. This rare moment of understanding is a glimpse of hope

Painting for a Cause

Senior Arielle Hernandez combines two of her passions, art and supporting the LGBTQ+ community, by selling her paintings and donating the profits to charity. She hopes her contribution will help others in the community. Arielle’s paintings celebrate the truth behind the artist.

incredible story. As her eighth grade year came to a close, she began to have pains below her knee. The pain steadily increased and her parents, almost positive she had torn her ACL, took her to a specialist to see what the issue was. After a few x-rays, her doctor came back with the results with a look Madison called “indescribable.” The doctor urged her to rush to the emergency room for an MRI and CAT scan. She stayed the night at Joe DiMaggio hospital and woke up to her parents in tears, devastated by the news that their perfectly normal 14 year old daughter had one of the rarest forms of cancer, osteosarcoma, a cancer in the bones. Osteosarcoma was only seen in one other patient at Joe DiMaggio in the last decade. “In that moment, I knew my life was going to be way different from there on out,” says Madison.

That same day, Madison received her port which is a long, hollow, plastic tube used by doctors to give medications, chemotherapy, and blood tests without having to stick the patient with multiple needles. Immediately after, she began her first round of chemotherapy, and from there on, her fight began. She had 30 weeks of chemotherapy and two major surgeries ahead, and while it was a daunting thought, Madison was willing to fight.

During her chemotherapy sessions, she was injected with the methotrexate, cisplatin, and doxorubicin, causing her to

“In that moment, I knew my life was going to be way different from there on out,” says Madison. grow more ill and weak every day. After 10 weeks of intense chemotherapy, it was time for Madison’s tumor removal surgery. The surgery was extremely high risk and her surgeon in New York confirmed it was likely she would lose her leg. After 10 hours of surgery, she was in excruciating pain. This was only the beginning. In the first procedure, the surgeon removed her fibula and piece of her tibia, and in the second, a week after the first, a carbon rod was placed down her tibia to stabilize it. She was not able to walk for months. Even after she took her first steps without assistance, Madison knew it was still going to be months before she was could walk normally.

With 20 more weeks of chemo to go, Madison was at her worst. “This was probably the hardest part. My body was so broken down and tired, I felt worse and worse with every chemo. I got tired of fighting for a while,” she admitted.

Physically, she was defeated, and she began losing her will to fight. While she was at an all-time low, she befriended two cancer patients just like herself. Meeting her new friends Jack and Zoey gave her a glimmer of hope. “While everyone was in school complaining about that test they had to take, me and many other were wondering when we could go home from the hospital,” says Madison. With her friends by her side, she was able to see the light at the end of the tunnel, and gain back her fight.

During her 30 weeks of treatment, she was on a regulated diet and was very restricted in the activities she could participate in, as her body was extremely weak. In the event she wasn’t staying in the hospital, she was quarantined to her room because her body no longer had the power to fight off infections.

On March 12, 2017, Madison received her last chemo treatment. After a long and hard struggle, Madison’s battle with cancer was finally won. Six days later, she got to make a wish! She wished for a horse, which came true, as now she has a best friend named Cos. Since her enrollment at PPCHS this August, Madison has become a key part of our Relay for Life Team. “ Madison is an inspiration to other kids her age because they can see how she was able to overcome such a hard time in her life and show them that they can overcome anything in their life too,” says Mrs. Hyacinth, Relay for Life club sponsor.

Madison will be our honorary survivor for the PPCHS Relay for Life team at this year’s event and will be recognized as such. She’ll also act as a member of our sophomore team in organizing the booth and raising money to donate to the American Cancer Society. It’s extremely admirable that Madison is now helping other patients that are in the same boat after everything she has gone through.

If anyone you know is struggling with cancer and you are looking for ways to cope or to donate please visit www. cancer.org for more information on the various programs designed to aid families with coping, as well as better the lives of cancer patients.

Her honorable strength and truly inspiring story prove that despite the odds, Madison came out triumphant.

Proud to be a Jag

Our very own Charter High School was acknowledged as a School of Excellence. The Charter family is honored to receive such high recognition and thanks all who have made it possible.

Photos Donated By: Madison White

News 35

CHARTER HIGH ACADEMIC

The Problems We Aren’t Hearing About We e k e n d as Yemen Fights for its Survival Review Swati Kumar Technology Editor

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he growing Al Qaeda threat, the terror plots to attack the U.S. homeland hatched within its borders, and America’s increasing campaign of airstrikes in the country have all graced the headlines of Western media. However, some of Yemen’s biggest challenges, which ignited many of last year’s democracy protests, remain missing from the majority of the world’s general knowledge.

Among the most “water stressed” countries in the world, Yemen ranks seventh, earning a warning from scientists that Sana’a is in danger of becoming the first capital in history to run out of water. This dire water shortage results in the availability of tap water only every few days in areas like Sana’a and Taiz. Moreover, experts explain that this lack of sufficient water supply is because 90 percent of the country’s water supply is inefficiently utilized in the name of agriculture (PBS).

Expert Charles Schmitz told Frontline that Yemen needs to regulate groundwater withdrawals to maintain a sustainable rate of pumping, and it needs to introduce water conservation measures in agriculture and in urban areas. However, he states, “The people who know how to organize such an endeavor are not politically empowered as of yet.” Though solutions have been thought of and stated, the water shortage problems mentioned combined with the country’s issues of a weak government, rapid population growth, and worldwide climate changes that are expected to increase the number of floods and drought will only further catalyze the scarcity of water, making it a long-term threat to Yemen’s stability.

Swati Kumar

Technology Editor

FDA Approves “Trackable” Pill As of November 14th, 2017, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved the first pill that can be digitally tracked through a person’s body in hopes that it could improve medical compliance. These pills are Abilify MyCite aripiprazole tablets that are used for treating schizophrenia and manic episode. They have an ingestible sensor inside of them that can record that the medication has been taken which then gets transmitted to the patient’s smartphone and can be sent to the doctor through a patch worn by the person. (BBC)

Leonardo da Vinci Artwork Sells for a Record of $450 Million Leonardo da Vinci’s 500-year-old painting of Christ known as Salvator Mundi (Savior of the World) has been sold in New York for a record price of $450 million. Among the fewer than 20 existing painting of Leonardo da Vinci, this is the only one in private hands. Bidding for Salvator Mundi began at $100 million and rose up to the highest auction price for any work of art done. The unidentified buyer bid through telephone, the call lasting a total of 20 minutes. (The Guardian)

UK Cyber-Defence Chief Accuses Russia of Hack Attacks Graphic By: Henry Severe

The nation is becoming a burden for its neighboring countries in terms of resources. Its low supply of water and oil (which occupies 75% of government income) forces the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries to chip in and try to keep Yemen afloat. If Yemen were to become a failed state, the country would serve as a harmonious breeding ground for terrorist groups, increasing the insecurity and instability of the region (NATO).

Yemen is the poorest Arab nation in the world with 10 million of its people undernourished and 5 million in need of emergency aid (PBS). To prevent a hunger crisis of catastrophic proportions, 20 countries and intergovernmental organizations, the “Friends of Yemen”, pledged $4 billion in assistance to Yemen. However, Abdulwahab Alkebsi, the regional director for Middle East and Africa programs at the Center for International Private Enterprise, stated that Yemen’s unapsorbative capacity leaves the nation in a state of impending famine.

The “Republic of Yemen” was formed in 1990 when two divergent parts-the tribal-dominated north and the Marxist-led south-joined to become one country. Twenty-seven years later, the nation has gone through a bloody civil war and remains struggling to unify its people, mainly due to the issues of two groups opposing the government: the Houthi rebels in the north (mostly Shia) and the Hirak activists in the south (mostly Sunni). For half a decade, the Hirak movement has been advocating for the south’s secession from Yemen and leading a great movement of civil disobedience, as it felt discriminated against by the regime. In the north, the Houthis led an armed rebellion against Yemeni and Saudi Arabian forces to defend their right to practice Zaidism (a type of Shiism) and to represent groups in the north who felt that the regime in Sana’a were against them (PBS).

Due to the Houthi rebellion and other tribal conflicts, 366,000 Yemenis have been estimated by the U.N. to have been displaced by the fighting between government forces, Al Qaeda, and affiliated militants who took over parts of southern Yemen, forcing Aden to absorb 10,000 people fleeing the country. The country is also taking in 30,000 refugees from Somalia, causing the U.S. and other nations to worry that militants are making use of refugees as cover to get back and forth between Somalia and Yemen (PBS).

“At this point in time, it is clear that the Yemeni government either cannot do, or will not do anything to alleviate the humanGraphic By: Justin Pierce itarian crisis. Therefore, governments of other countries should step in; the United States, the United Nations, and allies should send aid, and citizens from across the world could crowdfund and raise donations, especially food and water, to send to starving Yemenis,” claims senior Goodness Okwaraji. “Not enough people know that Yemen is facing mass malnutrition, and the first step to a solution is, of course, the acquisition of information. If people can choose to retweet a tweet to try to get a man a lifetime supply of chicken nuggets, there is no reason for them to not spread valuable information concerning the daily death of hundreds—most likely thousands—of people from causes so preventable. Major news outlets don’t cover the grave situation as much as they should, mainly because people buy into stories they report. If the people shift their focus away from celebrity drama and to the Yemeni crisis, chances are, the major outlets Graphic By: Michael Perez will as well. We need to raise money, supplies, and awareness to address the issues Yemen is currently facing, and to save the lives of its people.”

From severe droughts to secessionist movement, these sum up the largest of issues faced by the slowly depreciating country of Yemen.

Dire water shortages, impending famine, civil war, and thousands of refugees place as the prime long-term threats to Yemen’s stability and survival. It is up to the rest of the world to become aware of these problems and take initiative in providing solutions.

One of the UK’s cyber-defense chiefs accused Russia of having attacked Britain’s media, telecommunications and energy sectors over the past year at an event organized by the Times newspaper. Ciaran Martin, chief executive of GCHQ’s National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) also states that Russia was seeking to undermine the international system. His accusations followed those of Prime Minister Theresa May’s own claim that Russia is sustaining a campaign of cyber-espionage

California Man Killed Wife before Gun Rampage A California man killed his wife and hid her body in their home before he fatally shot four people during a gun rampage.

Kevin Janson Neal, age 43, fired into an elementary school in Rancho Tehama, but was stopped from entering by teachers.

Two of Neal’s neighbors were also found dead; the victims were involved in an ongoing dispute with Neal that lead to an assault with a deadly weapon charge against his last January. Two other individuals were also shot at random, hinting at his possible desire to kill as many people as he could.

Eventually, Neal crashed through the Rancho Tehama Reserve School’s locked gate before class began, firing dozens of shots through windows and walls when he was not able to enter the buildings. According to the police, a total of 14 people were injured, including seven children. (BBC)

Mugabe ‘resisting calls to resign’ Zimbabwe’s long-time President Robert Mugabe is continuously refusing to step down immediately, despite the growing number of calls for his resignation. He was put under house arrest during a military takeover while a power struggle of who would succeed him raged in the country.

Though there have been no official word on the outcome of talks he had with regional envoys and the army chief earlier, sources claim that Mugabe has so far refused to move aside from his position as president. (Nyasa times)

36 News CHARTER HIGH ACADEMIC TIMES

New Aims and Old Tactics Florencia Azcurra and Sofia Azcurra Staff Writers

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orth Korea has been a pressing issue recently and affects us more than most people would like to admit. The country, who hasn't had any major affairs in the past years, has successfully caught the attention of just about every world politician and American family with their bold, and possibly dangerous moves, seamlessly one after the other. While we are all awaiting to see them play their next move, staggered by their daring tactics, North Korea is hard at work...but at what exactly?

The most isolated and restrictive country in the world has recently become the most talked about. Since Kim Jong Un’s rise as leader in North Korea in 2011, the country has posed

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I think the missiles hit too close to home this time and the fact that Hawaii has to start taking these precautions proves all of the U.S. is in danger. Brianna Alvarez

an ongoing diplomatic challenge for the United States, with decades of trying out nuclear weapons. Pyongyang, the capital of North Korea, has heightened its work on its nuclear program and claimed that they are capable of launching a nuclear-armed missile that would reach the United States, according to the Huffington Post. “I think the relationship North Korea has with America has diminished. We, the government and civilians, should just be as prepared as possible. I’m glad Florida is exempt from the missile, though drastic measures should be taken for Hawaii,” expresses junior Gabriel Moljo. As of September 3rd, North Korea carried out its sixth and most powerful nuclear test. The launches triggered international alarm and condemnation, and sparked a battle of increasing threats between the Trump administration and the North Korean regime, which has only gotten stronger since 2006, when they first started. The regime claims it’s a hydrogen bomb is more powerful than the bombs dropped on Hiroshima and Nagasaki during World War II, which has caused the utmost fear throughout the nation, including one particular island.

The horrible sound of blaring alarms telling you death may very well approach could become a reality for the people of the small island Hawaii. The sirens, well-known to the older generation, as they heard it regularly during the Cold War, returned on December 1st. Hawaii is allegedly the first to reintroduce the war sirens for the first time in half a century.

“Hawaii is only being safe. I don’t think we have anything to worry about yet, but taking these safety measure ensures that the right actions are being taken,” says junior Robert Bellot. According to Fox News, the decision to re-establish nuclear siren drills came when North Korea tested their latest ballistic missile in very close proximity to Hawaii, potentially posing a threat to the people on the island. “The fact that we might be led into a nuclear war is pretty scary

“

and evident that something is wrong,” says sophomore Briana Alvarez, “I think the missiles hit too close to home this time and the fact that Hawaii has to start taking these precautions proves all of the U.S. is in danger.” Both sirens will be sounded in separate 50-second intervals from more than 400 locations across the central Pacific islands starting at 11:45 a.m. in a test that will be repeated on the first business day of each month after.

The tensions between the U.S. and North Korea have reached an intense point. In truth, tensions have always been simmering, but with escalating fear and elevated stress levels, the nation can only turn to the one person with a response, President Donald Trump. According to NBC News, regardless of Trump’s assurances that North Korea could never hit the United States, experts believe the possibility is within Kim Jong-Un’s power, whose motive is to keep control of the isolated country. “I think the U.S. can handle whatever North Korea is bringing to us. But I definitely think that if we don’t want them as a threat to us, America should start by getting on the same level of intensity as North Korea,” comments freshman Daniel Saliba. The West’s efforts to stop the blasts and commotion is evident, as the United Nations has imposed sanctions in attempt to calm the mess.

Trump has directly spoken and stated that if China doesn’t act out soon his administration will directly intervene. China has a major role in changing North Korea’s mind on launching missiles, as the countries are allies, but China has been too silent for Trump's liking. Trump has taken to twitter to express his salient Graphic By: Justin Pierce frustrations. The U.S. Pentagon spoke out as well, stating that they have raised their defenses and prepared their allies to use them to their full advantage.

While tensions still appear to be fragile and solutions seem to be arising, only time can tell how the United States will react to Kim Jong Un’s determination in setting off nuclear missiles. One thing will remain clear, Kim Jong wants the same respect in the global arena and to go about his ways with his country.

Sexual Misconduct Accusations Hit Hollywood Ainsley McCormick Student Life Editor

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hirty three high-profiled men have been accused of sexual harassment in the last few months. Men holding great power and influence have been fired or suspended from their jobs for sexual misconducts. It all started with Harvey Weinstein, who was exposed in the New York Times for decades of unwanted sexual related behavior, including rape. In its wake, a movement began called #MeToo, in which women flooded social media with their sexual harassment stories.

Most recently, co-host of NBC’s Today Show, Matt Lauer, was fired after an investigation exposed actions he committed that were not in line with the ideals of a man who holds so much power in the news business. It was been reported that Lauer conducted multiple acts of unwanted sexual behavior towards women, including exposing himself and then reprimanding an employee after the said employee declined to engage in a sexual act. Most shockingly is the detail about a feature Lauer had in his office, a button that could lock the door from the inside, which at the time was not considered inappropriate by NBD, but rather than an item bought to boost his ego. Sexual allegations against Lauer trace back to events that occurred between 2014 and now.

Accusations in the media industry are considered uncomfortable because of the trust people often have in the information that is relayed to them through the news, social media, or radio. Top editor of NPR, Michael Oreskes, was placed on leave after multiple accusations surfaced of Oreskes kissing women while conducting a business related matter. CBS News fired talk show host and journalist Charlie Rose after eight women accused him of unwanted sexual advances, stated in a report to the Washington Post. These cases left viewers with a weary feeling on because these are the men and women who are trusted with reliable information and acts of misconduct break that trust. Junior, and President of Model UN, Katie Ramirez said, “With all the recent allegations of sexual harassment arising from Hollywood, I️ believe that it is time that people speak about these issues that affect them and have to carry around their whole life. Both men and women should take accountability and responsibility for criminal actions, as well as harassment in the workplace.”

After Kevin Spacey, actor on House of Cards, was accused of sexually harassing actor Anthony Rapp, who was a minor at the time, Netflix announced its next season would be the final season of the show.

Ben Affleck was accused of groping his co-host when he worked on MTV’s Total Request Live, after which he apologized for his actions on Twitter, as he found himself the target of these allegations.

Senior Stephanie Velazquez, member of the Girl Power club, said, “Sexual harassment used to be the open secret in Hollywood, meaning everyone had Graphic By: Michael Perez knowledge of it but never spoke up about it. And if people did, usually victims, they were met with judgement and/or disbelief. Finally now, society is siding with the victims, as Hollywood’s dirty secret is now public information.”

Political figures have gotten involved in these accusations. Forty first President George H.W. Bush was accused of inappropriately touching a woman from behind while taking a picture. His spokesperson explained that this was by mistake and would never be his true intentions. Two other women then came forward with similar accusations towards Bush.

While running for office, a video of President Donald Trump was leaked in which he can be heard bragging about making unwanted advances unto women, including grabbing them by their genitals. Since this, multiple women have accused the President of sexual misconduct.

With all of these allegations taking the news by storm, it is expected that more and more reports will surface, as victims become more comfortable with speaking out.

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CHARTER HIGH ACADEMIC

Slave Trade Occurs in Libya Rachel Rivera Lifestyle Editor

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global spotlight has been put on the country of Libya following the news that they have been conducting slave auctions. This modern day trade has been going on in the country for over three years and is finally being brought to light. In early November, CNN put out hidden-camera and cellphone videos that showed these “slave auctions”. Every year for the past three years over 150,000 migrants and refugees have had hopes of making a new life for themselves only to end up being held and forced into prostitution and sexual exploitation.

As a world who has seemingly moved on from these inhumane acts that were once normalized, this came as a major shock. The footage showed West Africans posing as merchandise while buyers responded with prices. Once sold, they are either murdered and used for their organs, mutilated, tortured, or worked to death. As students who get to go to school and live out our lives it’s a completely outrageous topic to Graphic By: Rosa Gomez think about. “I can’t imagine slave auctions still going on in American, so to think it is still happening in other places of the world is so horrific to think about” says freshman Sama Ali. Although migrants and refugees being sold into slavery isn’t entirely new news, back in April of 2017 the International Organization for Migration (IOM) reported that its staff discovered slave markets along the North African migrant routes. The recent footage brought the topic up again and caused an international outrage. With Italian assistance, the Libyan

coast guard has been intercepting boats ferrying migrants since the summer, leaving migrants stranded in a country where they are preyed upon by this absurd violation of human rights.

Since news broke, around 242 men and women returned home to Nigeria after being in detention camps.

The Nigerian government has been working with the IOM and around 5,000 people have come home in the past year. Sophomore Sofia Avello input her thoughts, saying “I haven’t heard about this until recently and the fact that it’s been going on for so long is crazy, I hope that they keep progressing on sending people home and ultimately ending this altogether”. The International Organization for Migration, an organization based in Geneva that focuses on managing migration, has welcomed Libya's investigation into the trafficking of migrants. Its chief of missions for Libya Othman Belbeisi warned that "the smuggling networks are becoming stronger, more organized and better equipped."

Images that have been surfacing on the Internet give slight insight to the pain they are suffering, as these men, women, and children are losing their future, hope, and dignity. As this remains an ongoing conflict, with many obstacles to overcome before a real change is made, governments and organizations have chimed in to be the voice of these innocent and helpless people.

The Paris Climate Breaking Barriers for the Transgender Community Change Agreement Sophia Cortes

Roselle Curiel

Staff Writer

Entertainment Editor

Graphic By: Michael Perez Newly elected state legislature for Virgina, Danica Roem.

Graphic by: henry severe

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n November 8th, the state of Virginia had their midterm election to select the official lawmaker to represent the state in the Virginia House of Delegates. Nominated for the Republican Party was delegate Robert Marshall, and for the Democrats ran journalist Danica Roem. History was made when Roem won, and was declared the first transgender state legislature for Virginia. “I believe this is such a big step for people in the LGBT community. Decades ago, no one would’ve thought this was possible,” said senior Nicole Cano. As state legislator, her job is now to secure funding for construction projects and state-provided services.

Roem was a prevalent member of her campaign team; she didn’t want to win because people saw her as a transgender individual, but because she genuinely cared for the people of Virginia. Relentlessly knocking on over 75,000 doors during her campaign in an effort to make her policies well-known. Her platform was built on reforming transportation, infrastructure, education, and equality. More specifically, Roem wanted to fix Route 28 to get rid of traffic, raise teacher salaries in Manassas Park and Prince William County- the places with the lowest teacher pay in North Virginia- reduce class sizes, raise minimum wage, make healthcare more affordable, and fill empty jobs (Ballotpedia). She also stated that she supports progressive policies such as the DREAM Act, voting rights, civil rights, feminism and LGBT rights. Roem backs our veterans, supporting the Virginia Values Veterans Act which will help employers connect with them and supply quality mental and physical health care.

Roem’s win was a relief for many transgender people living in Virginia. Her opponent, Robert Marshall, previously introduced a bill known as the “Physical Privacy Act”, which would restrict people from “entering a restroom, changing facility or private area designated for members of the opposite sex in any government-owned building” (Insidenova).

Marshall also wrote a bill that would ban any homosexual person from openly serving in the Virginia National Guard and another amendment which would make marriage strictly between a man and woman (Time). “This win was really important for the LGBT community, especially because her candidate was against them, and now they’ll have more representation in the government,” said senior Evelyn Orbegoso. By stating she supports equality for everyone, regardless of sexual orientation, race, or gender, swaying many Virginia residents vote in her favor.

Roem, a former writer for the Gainesville Times, after majoring in journalism at St. Bonaventure University, decided to pursue politics after nine years as a journalist. Her job as a journalist required her to know about elected officials and issues going on in Virginia.

Her goal was to improve the quality of life and leave her mark on Virginia. After hard campaigning and facing her critics, she won!

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reated on April 22nd of 2016, the Paris Agreement is an agreement made through the United Nations Framework Convention. Its main purpose is to unite world leaders from all over the globe to combat the high levels of emitted greenhouse gases and to lower the levels of climate change. The Paris Agreement has made it possible, for the first time in history, for world leaders to come together to help each other find a way to end global warming. Those who have signed, or will sign, the agreement will be in charge of keeping the increase in global average temperature below 2 degrees Celsius, which is above pre-industrial levels. Their intention is to limit the increase in temperature to 1.5 degrees Celsius. Unfortunately, while it might seem like not such a big climate change, this difference in temperature could strain food and energy production, and clean water sources, not to mention a probable decline in the production of oil and coal industries.

Under the presidency of Barack Obama, the United States was eager to become part of this world wide agreement to find cleaner sources of energy. However, when Donald Trump took office, one of the first things he did in office was pull out of the Paris Agreement, making the United States, at the time, part of the small group of countries that included only Nicaragua and Syria, who did not sign the agreement. Since then, both Nicaragua and Syria have changed their minds and have decided to sign the accord, leaving the United States as the only country in the world to not sign the climate change deal.

President Trump has stated that he will sign the agreement, if there are some changes that would be more “fair” to the United States economy. “As someone who cares deeply about the environment, I cannot in good conscience support [the Agreement],” said Trump, after stating that the accord would not allow the development of clean coal in the United States.

As it has been shown in the past, what the president says does not reflect what the country feels, and this case is no exception. Many U.S. companies, such as Google, Facebook, Microsoft, and Apple, have asked the president to reconsider his decision and sign the Paris Agreement. Not only have U.S. companies started rallying against Trump’s decision, but mayors from all across the country have started to implement the guidelines of the Paris Agreement in their own cities, calling themselves the “Climate Mayors.” So far there are 383 Climate Mayors that have spread around the country, from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, to our very own Pembroke Pines, Florida. Sophomore Ria Dave supports the decisions made by the Climate Mayors, as she believes that despite Trump not signing the Agreement, “we should definitely do our best to help the world's climate.”

Unfortunately, we might not be seeing any improvement on whether or not the United States will sign the Paris Agreement, given that the EU stated that they will not change the accord under any circumstances, with the European Commission president saying that, “the 29 articles of the agreement must be implemented and not renegotiated.” Dave believes that one of the reasons Trump will not sign the accord is, “given his past attitudes, he has shown that he doesn't even believe that climate change exists.”

No one is sure what is to happen in the future- whether President Trump might have a change of heart and agree to sign the accord or if the EU will somehow convince him to sign- however only time will tell.

Bustamante Breaks a Leg! Alexa Infante

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Managing Editor- Content

ver since Tatiana Bustamante became an official PPCHS alum, her life has changed in a number of wonderful ways. Quickly, her status as an incredible performer allowed her to move from the graduation stage to an even more prestigious stage at the Chicago College of Performing Arts. Her experiences over the last four years in Chicago have shaped her in a number of ways. “Every change I’ve undergone, no matter how small, has influenced my perspective and opinions. I see the world differently now, in both positive and negative ways,” she says. Tatiana stresses that learning to take care of her own mental health has been one of the most important parts of growing up. It’s not an easy task - she describes it more as a skill to be practiced so “you can confidently say that your failures are just steps on the path to attaining your dreams,” she reveals.

Trading in the beautiful beaches and swaying palm trees was no easy task for Tatiana. She feels the adjustment process has taken years, but pursuing her passion has pushed her through it. At times she grew very homesick and even suffered seasonal depression from the cold, unforgiving Chicago weather. However, she explained that her biggest challenge through the move was also her biggest victory. “At first, as the only Latin actor in my class, I felt out of place and alone, but then I realized that my unique heritage was an opportunity to learn about my classmates, their cultures, and their perspective,” she says. In return, she would embrace her Latin American culture and share her heritage with the people around her.

Tatiana’s exceptional academics would have been able to get her far, but she explains she was intrigued by the captivating magic of the performing arts.

The performing arts are a method of amplifying ideas and showcase internalized emotions. She believes that, “being an actor is to possess the unique power to retain an audience in a world without time. There’s no other feeling quite like it.” Artist are able to challenge society’s blindly accepted views.

Artists, like Tatiana, have the power to create an environment so inviting and so entrancing that the audience will forget they are watching a play and believe they are watching their own lives.

Her college experience has been atypical. She gets graded on singing, dancing, acting- alongside the most talented people-, talking in different accents, juggling balls in circus class (yes, they even have a circus class), writing her own material, and playing several different instruments. “None of this ever felt like “work” to me. It’s play. I got a degree in playing make-believe! I can’t think of anything more fulfilling,” she says.

Like any talented artist, Tatiana is already planning her next big move. She officially booked her first professional gig at the world’s first feminist equity theatre company. She is also currently understudying for a role in rock musical that paints women in a different light than the standards. “I am truly honored to be working for a company that uses theatre to promote social justice causes. After I graduate in May, I plan to move to New York City to make the next big step in my professional career!” she commented. From her time at PPCHS it was clear that Tatiana had a bright future ahead of her.

As she continues to make the Jaguar community proud, we wish her the best of luck and look forward to seeing her on the big screen one day!

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Breaking News: PPCHS Alum Assists CNN Sofia Azcurra Staff Writer

inding your dream job right after college can be difficult, but Charter alumni Omari White defeated all odds when he graduated from the University of Florida. The former student currently holds a job with CNN as Cross Platform Production Assistant, and essentially, he is an assistant to the producers, directors, writers, and editors for CNN, HLN and other Turner Broadcasting companies. It’s only his third week, and he has a wide range of tasks and duties, but mainly logs and monitors footage such as interviews and press conferences for CNN’s daily programming.

“I knew I wanted to land an opportunity like this so I stuck with it and trusted in the process,” he said. He began applying for jobs during his senior year here at PPCHS, knowing he wanted to work for an amazing multimedia company. Omari took his chance when he noticed Time Warner was listing once in a lifetime properties with open positions like CNN, Cartoon Network and Warner Bros, and he started applying right away!

The charter alumnus graduated from the University of Florida in May with a degree in Telecommunications and received a life-changing opportunity the following October. The hiring process was long and thorough, but the determined alumni stuck with it along with his family’s support.

“My mother and father are my biggest inspirations,” he said, “They are extremely hard-working and never told me to give up. Sure I had my other heroes like Eddie Murphy and Stuart Scott, but I would be nothing without their love and support.”

He is extremely grateful to be part of such a legendary brand and to have his childhood dreams come true. Life after college or high school may seem impossible, but Omari White surely defines what it means to be a hard worker and to have it pay off.