The C.H.A.T. Homecoming Issue 2018-19

Pink Power Prevails

Spirit Week and Homecoming 2018

Ainsley McCormick Editor -in-Chief Brittany Evelyn Managing Editors - Content & Layout Chatter Daily News Ariana Ortiz Web Managing Editor Ariana Ortiz - Content Maxine Martinez - Layout Business Managers Mr. J. Harris - Layout Mr. F. Fagen - Content Mr. J. Harris - Video Advisors Mr. P. Bayer Principal Caroline Kadir News Editor Paolo Barrera Student Life Editor Alan Mathew Technology Editor

Contents

The C.H.C. Staff

Jordan Alberti Sports Editor Florencia Azcurra and Emma Caulfield Features Editor Sofia Azcurra Entertainment Editor Rachel Rivera Lifestyle Editor

Pages 4 - 7:

Sophia Cortez Voices Versus Violence Brianna Butler and Kiersten Warren Community Outreach Justin Dourvetakis- The CHAT Andres Alfonso - Web Photo Editors Justin Pierce Graphics Editor

Spirit Week Day 1: Kicking it Off With Cliche Day Monday

Content Staff: Austin Basso, Brianna Butler, Emma Caulfield, Sophia Cortes, Rebekah Jacob, Caroline Kadir, Maxine Martinez, Michael Muela, Arianna Ozuna, Aidan Ryan Layout Staff: Monica Lazada, Rebekah Jacob, Caroline Kadir, Lillian McCormick, Brittany Evelyn, Ainsley McCormick Photography Staff: Nicholas Amad, Aijah Harper, Aryiel Bryant, Maya Cabrera, Francesca Brito GRAPHIC STAFF: Rosa Gomez, Henry Severe, Jasmin Bleus, Taylor Causey, Matthew Morales, Carolina Othon CARTOONIST: Mariana Riano 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: ppchsnewspaper@gmail.com Twitter: @ppchsnewspaper Instagram: @ppchsnewspaper 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 ppchsnewspaper@gmail.com

Pages 8 - 11: Spirit Week Day 2: PPCHS Students Tune into the Past Tuesday

Pages 12 - 15: Spirit Week Day 3: A Spook-tacular Day Wednesday

Pep Rally

Pg. 18 - 21

Features: Pg. 24 - 25

Pages 16 - 17: Spirit Week Day 4: Jaguar Pride Thursday

Pages 18 - 21: Thursday’s Pep Rally: Pep, Pep Hooray!

Sports: Pg. 26

Features: Drumming Her Way to Leadership: Muriel Morales Profile Taking the Mic: John Lynch Profile

Sports: Pink-Out Homecoming Game Brings Charter Cheer Keep Calm and Play Powder Puff

Pages 22 - 23: Homecoming Dance: Dancing Through the Havana Night

Lifestyle: How to Make the Perfect Spooky Basket Movies Show Turnover on Terror

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Kicking It Off W

Brianna Butler a

staff writer and t

Fresh ideas, brand new outfits, a re-

newed sense of school pride: that’s what Spirit Week brings to Charter every year, and this one is no different. Spirit Week, after all, is an extravagantly colorful build up to Pep Rally, the Homecoming game, and Homecoming itself, but for many it’s the individual days that make it worthwhile.

Walking the halls, at least for a week, now means reveling in suspenders, snapbacks, and school spirit, all of which were proudly highlighted by a brand new, and tone setting, “Cliché Monday.”

Replacing last year’s Twin Day, Cliché Monday invited students across the school to dress up as a school cliché, whether that meant coming to school dressed as someone with pencils meticulously lined up in their front pockets or someone who was fully equipped with eyeshadow, black leather shoes, and fishnet leggings. Options were only limited by a student’s imagination, though the dress code did have a steady, guiding hand in the process. All the same, students like freshman Melvin Valle are grateful. In his words, “I appreciate how the school allows students to express themselves in a fun, unique way that shakes things up a bit. If anything, [I wish even more people] took advantage of it.”

Regardless of the cliché chosen, however, it was clear to see that it was a student’s own take on the experience that set the special day apart! Expressivity and originality were key to participating, which every student inherently understood.

After all, football players wearing their

sports jackets aren’t anything new to the campus, so certain members of the team decided to step it up a notch and enhance their attire. Sophomore Ahmari Avin chose to spend the day decked out in a vintagestyle football jacket bursting with colors from a sunshine yellow to a distinctive royal purple. In his words, “The jacket wasn’t the cliché, actually. It was the fact that I was wearing a football jacket like I [do] everyday, but I think the jacket I wore [Monday] really helped the idea get out there.”

Monday was, without a doubt, a day for student expression across the high school.

Many students took a crack at modernizing their attire and trying something outside of the box. Junior Alisa Chavez walked into school with a camouflage-styled bucket hat and sweatpants. Her large gray jacket and beaded necklaces accentuated the cliché of a Soundcloud rapper, bringing a humorous appeal through the style of clothing. “This isn’t supposed to be about dressing up to mock a typical stereotype,” she begins.

“It’s our ability to relate and understand our group’s experiences. I wanted to delve into more modern and popular culture instead of focusing on traditional clothing. I enjoy how my outfit brings more familiarity to students than teachers or parents.”

For many, Spirit Week was a perfect time to shine by using an outfit to present craft and originality.

One of the highlights of Spirit Week is finding students who break the boundaries and step up to send a message through their clothing. A prime example is senior

Photos By: Andy Alfonso, Nicholas Amad, May

With Cliche Day

and Alan

Matthew

technology editor

ya

Brandon Causing, who decided to start off his last Spirit Week with a bang. Boldly strutting into school, each sashaying step seemed to radiate his confidence throughout the room. With a crimson red highwaisted skirt and pristine white stilettos, Brandon’s outfit easily stole the crowd’s attention and provoked many different reactions from students around him. “I knew I wanted to stand out. While it was difficult thinking of something nobody else would do, I found it a lot easier to figure out something no man would do: dress femininely.” Although his clothing style was originally never meant to evoke a message, that quickly changed when he found disappointment within the large crowd of guys that seemed to disapprove of the clothes he had chosen to wear. “It made me realize how fragile masculinity is in society.”

However, Brandon described the experience as overly positive and empowering thanks to the sheer amount of support he received from teachers, administrators, and friends. “Lesson to be learned, a little time to buy some size ten, 6-inch heels and a red skirt from Goodwill hurts nothing except your feet.” Clearly, Cliché Monday was a great way to channel self-expression and make a message out some of the dazzling, dapper, and daring outfits out there.

In a lot of cases, it seemed as if it was the average, every day student who took the opportunity to shine on Monday. Cases vary, but the veritable sea of cheerleaders to prep boys that was unleashed upon the school at the start of the week wasn’t easy to ignore for anybody, and, besides the odd

Cabrera, Aryiel Bryant, Justin Dourvetakis

exception, it seemed like almost everybody was taking part in it one way or another.

The gargantuan levels of participation from students, as well as many teachers, helped bring out the very school pride Spirit Week is meant to amplify, making each day original and filled with the unexpected.

The entire day only got better because of student involvement, and it seemed like just about every step was taken to help facilitate it. The actual, bona fide catwalk that was erected in the middle of the cafeteria was the obvious example. Managed by the members of SGA, the catwalk became a stage for any and all who wanted to highlight their outfits and ideas to a large portion of their class. A playlist reverberating through speakers that were set up only heightened the mood and overall feel of the scene during lunch. In a sense, a major portion of the day’s purpose stems from the same level of energy and excitement that was visible in the cafeteria Monday.

The first day of Spirit Week successfully unified students from all grade levels by showing off the innate, yet sometimes hidden, creativity that flows through each and every class at our school. Considering the imagination of each outfit, the effort put into crafting the sometimes painstaking details, and the outright joy that stemmed from each and every little spark of brilliance within the student body, there’s no doubt about it— Monday wasn’t just the perfect melting pot of old and new clichés, it was an excellent opener to a week that is sure to be just as tremendous.

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ra, Aryiel

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Bryant, Justin Dourvetakis

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Students Tune

Maxine Martinez & Business Manager

Walking into PPCHS on the morning

of Tuesday, October 16, students came face to face with characters from all ages and eras, rather than the typical sea of white, maroon, grey, or black polos. PPCHS students celebrated their second day of spirit week with a fun and funky time travel day.

Costumes ranged from dressing as senior citizens, all the way back to their elementary school days. The day also featured a comeback of fashion from the 60s to early 2000s, and, of course, the tradition of a student in a dinosaur costume, bringing this day all the way to prehistoric times.

With her own take on the day’s theme, freshman Nicole Llanes journeyed to the 60s and became a pink lady for a day. “It was really cool to be able to dress without a uniform. We wore pink ladies jackets with a black top under and black tights. The pictures turned out really good, and we did a boomerang too.” Other PPCHS students decided to go for a look that is more modern. Sophomore Shannon Amor, for example, dressed as a 90s kid, in all denim and

&

a t-shirt underneath. “I’m trying to show off the vintage era. I really always liked the style of the 90s and I kind of wish I was born in that decade to be honest. Overall, this day was really fun and I feel like more people should dress up during spirit week, because it’s really fun.” It seems as if a lot of students ventured to the 90s and 60s as their inspiration.

For those who did take part travelling back in time, they were excited to showcase their looks. To model their outfits, students took to the runway during A and B lunch.

Upon entering the cafeteria, students were welcomed by music, laughter, cheers. The event, held by SGA, is an annual tradition that everyone looks forward to. Students strut their stuff to the rhythm of the music as their peers watched in amazement and entertainment.

Out of the many characters that walked onto the stage, some in particular, stuck out more than others. Senior Guillermo Penela and his friends traveled thousands of years back in time, as they were dressed as an-

Photos By: Andres Alfonso, Aijah Harp

into the Past

&

&

Kiersten Warren

Community Outreach

per,

cient Greek figures. For those not brave enough to walk the runway, the River of Grass seemed to be the hotspot in order to take great photos. “I wore camo cargo pants and an orange crop top with sneakers. As I posed in front of the River of Grass, everyone thought my outfit was great. I also wore big hoops. It was a really cool day, seeing what time period everyone picked was interesting,” said junior Amanda Cooke-William. Heading back in time, sophomore Emma Caulfield wore her old elementary school uniform: the all too memorable plaid skirt and navy blue shirt polo with the elementary school emblem.

One of the most interesting aspects of time travel day was the decided theme for seniors. Dressing in completely early 2000s attire, the class of 2019 showcased their unity as a graduating class.

Although a lot of students seemed to dress down in attire from their favorite decade, the English department, namely Ms. Hernandez, Ms. Taylor, Ms. Ellis, and Ms. Blanco, decided to follow the theme as

& Maya Cabrera, Justin Dourvetakis

well. “The four of us decided to be senior citizens, and we called ourselves the Granny Gang. But overall, I think spirit week is really fun, because you get to dress up while showing your school spirit. Some of my students have some really great costumes, and some of them have come in with the same old pines charter uniforms,” the English 1 teacher remarked. While these English teachers certainly had a spectacular senior citizen theme for Tuesday, they have much more planned for the rest of the week.

While journeying back to the groovy and vintage days was exciting, students here at PPCHS have thrilling things planned for the rest of spirit week. SGA has some great things in store for the entire school, with Halloween day on Wednesday, pep rally being Thursday, and the homecoming game on Thursday night, the festivities are far from over. Jags, be sure to participate in everything that is happening this week, because we certainly have a lot to look forward to!

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Photos By: Andres Alfonso, Aijah Harp

per,

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& Maya Cabrera, Justin Dourvetakis

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A Spook-ta

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Rebekah Jacob &

A

Clubs Editor &

s the creepy, ghoul candy-filled holiday approaches, our very own PPCHS students are already getting in the spirit. From skeletons and witches to devils and angels, these timelessly spooky costumes swarmed the hallways on Wednesday, October 17th, turning the campus into an enormous Halloween fest.

From the moment the bell rang, students pranced into school by the dozens with the sun glistening on their diversified costumes. For countless students, having Halloween Day included on the roster of spirit week themes allowed them to display their supernatural sides and unique personalities. SGA’s intention for ‘Halloween Wednesday’ was to grant jags a chance to celebrate Halloween in advance and to give the school day some authentic Halloween vibes with everyone dressed up in their costumes. Numerous students took this day very seriously by investing a great amount of time and effort into their costumes.

Sophomore Ashley Diaz says, “I decided

to dress up as a gumball machine because I really wanted to put on something original and creative this year. Because Halloween is typically considered a creepy holiday, I specifically wanted to dress very bright and colorful. I planned this entire costume out at the end of last week, and got really excited when I thought of this idea.” With multi-colored poms poms wrapped around her white t-shirt and a “50-cent” label displayed across the bottom hem of her shirt, she showcased the intricate texture and detail within the costume. Diaz continued, “I knew the Halloween theme would allow me to go all out and give everybody the chance to dress as whatever they wanted to be, which I find amazing and super fun.

People didn’t disappoint today, that’s for sure.” Halloween Wednesday was definitely off to a good start, as students were evidently engaged with the day’s theme and showing off their extravagant costumes to the vast student body. However, this was only the beginning of what was yet to be an active and exciting day.

As the day progressed, multiple jags stayed in character the entire time and didn’t lose the specific nature of their outfits. There were superheroes soaring through the hallways, clowns startling the student body, and witches cruising their broomsticks around. SGA’s runway in the cafeteria enabled students to see their friends strut their sensational costumes and showcase it to the entire school. Freshman Ashley Feng expresses, “It was so cool seeing everyone stride down the runway. When people were walking down, you could truly see their personalities shine through their

Photos By: Andy Alfonso, Nicholas Amad, Maya Cabrer

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acular Day

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& Caroline Kadir

& News Editor

costumes and the way they walked down.

Personally, I chose to be a doll because I used to always play with them. I planned my costume beforehand and it didn’t take too long. I’m also a childish person, which is why I decided to be a doll since it suits me so well.” This day permitted some jags to feel like a little kid again and bring back happiness and memories that came with the holiday.

Having Halloween Wednesday as a theme this year for spirit week has not only brought smiles to kids’ faces and given jags the chance to express themselves, but it also allowed the opportunity for plenty of students to make a statement. A couple of jags chose to shift the status quo when it came to gender stereotypes. A group of juniors did so by having the girls in the group wear “boy clothes,” and the boys wear “girl clothes.” Many students this week chose to chase “modern times,” as junior Julian Esquivel explains. He continues, “I chose to be Boo from Monsters Inc., and my girlfriend was Sully. We thought the idea was awesome and we wanted to change things up. We planned this outfit once the themes were settled and announced, and this specific theme was terrific because it allowed the students to be free and dress as they wish. With that being said, jags definitely went all out and everybody looked great! Especially us, we looked the best out there!” Halloween Wednesday definitely meant something different for these group of students.

Numerous students were dressed up and excited to show off their elaborate costumes to friends and teachers. Senior

a, Aryiel

Maria Acosta-Rubio had plenty to voice regarding her costume, thoughts about the day’s theme, and even improvements for next year. She said, “I was dressed as Sofi from the movie “Mama Mia,” and my friend was dressed up as Dona (her mom).

It was definitely a load of fun, and I really liked the day’s theme and concept because I saw countless other students dressed up as movie characters like my friend Seanie who was dressed up as a clown from the movie IT for Halloween. It was really fun to go around and have an excuse to sing songs from ‘Mama Mia’ all day. Next year, however, I do wish to see more diversity within the spirit week themes so it’s not the same old ideas over and over.”

It’s definitely safe to say that Halloween Wednesday was a huge success and a funfilled day for many jags. It allowed the entire student body to express themselves through their costumes, be creative, make a statement, and most of all have fun!

Bryant, Justin Dourvetakis, Francesca Brito

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Photos By: Andy Alfonso, Nicholas Amad, Maya Cabrera

a, Aryiel

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Jaguar Pride

Brittany

Managin

As students swarmed onto campus

with their Starbucks and Dunkin Donuts goodies in hand, the humid, the summer-should-be-fall air brought a different aura to PPCHS. Something seemed different about the Thursday morning, and it wasn't just the students’ attire. Electricity seemed to fill the air, as loud conversations travelled up the stairs and hurried tones filled the hallways. It was the highly anticipated pep rally day and the last day of spirit week: Jaguar Pride Thursday.

As the sun began to rise over the Charter campus, students could barely contain their excitement for the day’s exciting activities and the long weekend encroaching on the horizon. Nothing could bring their mood down. Cheerleaders wore their game day outfits, the classic cheerleader uniform and large bow atop their hair. Players on the various Charter sports teams showed off their jackets and jerseys, letting everyone know they were proud to

be a Jaguar. “School spirit is showing love to all your teams, coming to pep rally, supporting your peers in their academics and sports. Especially being a football player, seeing everyone take part in spirit week was special,” said junior Dakota Parsons. Students paraded around campus, modeling their favorite school spirit shirt, hand prints of various colors and sizes trailing along their legs, and glitter and jewels artfully and strategically placed on their faces. All in the traditional Charter colors: black, white, and burgundy. With their own creative takes on the day’s theme, girls were painted in Charter’s school colors.

“I wore a bandana, as well as face paint and hand prints along my leg in the school colors. We’re only here for a little while so it’s important to show your school spirit. I noticed that a lot of people didn’t participate because they were freshmen, but I dressed up every day and I enjoyed doing it,” said freshman Isabella

All Photos Donated

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e Thursday

tany

Evelyn

naging

Editor

ated

Angel. Some even took it a step further, adding to their highlight by using hair gel and glitter to accentuate their cheekbones. Following the festival style, other painted small dots across their face, starting just above their eyebrow and extending diagonally under the opposite eye.

Not to be left out, the boys striped white, black, and red eye blacks on their cheeks, giving them the look of a fierce jaguar. Sophomore Vincent Mansfield expressed his excitement for spirit week, “Whenever we have chances to dress out I take advantage because we always wear uniform. I’m also on the football team, so pep rally was really exciting. There was a lot of energy and the school was really excited. It was a lot of fun.” Flooding the River Of Grass steps between classes, boys and girls alike took advantage of the bright sun that makes for the perfect “Instagram ready” photo lighting. A popular spot all week, the ROG was spotted with friends taking turns posing with one another, showing

By Subjects in Them

off their painted school spirit and capturing the perfect shot.

Breezing through their first four classes, students eagerly anticipated fifth period - after all, that is when the real fun was set to begin. With the day’s altered schedule, students attended periods one through four, each for a shortened 35 minutes.

Finally, fifth period began and students were slowly released to the gym, barely able to contain their excitement. For students here at PPCHS, nothing says school spirit like spirit week, and more specifically, pep rally day. The day was filled with jaguar pride, as members of every grade level participate in raising school spirit and showing off their pride. Following the day’s headline of Jaguar Pride, and the homecoming theme of Havana Nights, the gym was decorated with a distinct Caribbean flair. Pep rally and Jaguar Pride Thursday made for the perfect end to the early release day and great start to a highly anticipated long weekend!

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Pep, Pep

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Florencia

Co-Featur

T

he low hum of the Charter band grew louder as dozens of students made their way down to the gym for the annual homecoming pep rally. As more and more students began to fill the stands, the band, who never fails to put on a spectacular show, upped the antics. They performed ‘Santana’ and ‘Malegueña’, two songs that fit the Havana Nights theme perfectly. The welcoming voices of MC’s, senior Johnny Lynch and junior Brianna Alvarez, hyped up the kids as they swarmed into the anticipated event!

The 2018 fall pep rally began with senior Anabel Vazquez passionately signing the national anthem. Powerful vocals bounced off the walls and left students impressed and eager for more. The numerous clubs and sports teams offered at our school all made their own unique, grand entrance into pep rally. Each more elaborate than the last, the teams’ entrances had students either shocked or laughing until their sides

hurt. The swim team left the expectations high after performing their own “swim” version of the cha-cha slide and surprising the gym with a flash mob. “When finding out about doing a dance at pep rally it was really exciting because I had never done anything like it,” says freshman Jayna Brunner. “Being able to perform with them was super fun!” Quickly, but smoothly, the swim team left the spotlight to give room for the bowling team and their knockout performance. The bowlers rapidly set themselves up identical to a bowling lane and proceeded to perfectly execute a strike.

As one member rolled down the makeshift lane, the other members dramatically fell to the floor, as pins do. “This was my first pep rally and seeing all the elaborate entrances was really cool,” says freshman Isabella Rodriguez. “The bowling team had a really funny entrance that they pulled off really well!” Evidently, laughter echoed through the gym and could even be heard through

the breezeway. Other teams, namely volleyball, football, lacrosse, and even track, who ran the entire gym like a track field, continued to wow the audience. The erupting cheers continued to get louder as more and more people from clubs and sports began filling the gym.

All sports and clubs that proudly entered, with smiles on their faces and excitement in their eyes, took a seat on the either side of the gym and watched, or even participated in small competitions put together

by SGA. The track and volleyball teams played an interactive game where the players from both teams competed to make it to the end of the hula hoop line by playing a quick game of rock, papers, and scissors.

The intuitive activity excited the audience when students got “too close to comfort”.

“The relay game was different this year and it was really elaborately planned,” says track team member senior Hunter Fu. “I was close to winning at one point but it was

Photos By: Andy Alfon

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Hooray!

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a Azcurra

ures

Editor

a lot of fun interacting with other sports team members!” The audience watched back and forth until the game ended and SGA briskly made way for the following act.

The cheerful tunes played during the relay stopped and were replaced with more dramatic music. The sudden change had students looking around and shifting in their seats in confusion. Not entirely sure of what was coming, they began making guesses and checking off which performances they had yet to see. That was when the fashion club made their powerful entrance and made pep rally their own runway. Both the girls and guys who participated in the show, were painted in loud, colorful makeup and dressed in vibrant, flowy clothes that captivated the Havana nights theme. As each model sashayed into the gym, the crowd’s screams and support grew louder after every compelling move made by Charter’s models.

nso and Aijah

Harper

The energy in the gym was heightened, as the fashion club left the students of Charter impressed and screaming for more.

Well, more was given to them, not by the fashion club, but by the step team instead.

All eyes were on the girls as they took the floor with their dominant and remarkable performance. “Pep rally was amazing!

It was honestly cool to see so much talent come from the step team. They made the crowd really hype,” says sophomore Isabella Gonzalez. The team captured the audience’s complete attention as they completed their performance with the sound of their feet stomping on the floor, the claps of their hands, and their loud recitations.

Pep rally wouldn’t be pep rally without a powerful performance from the beloved dance team. The dancers ended the show with intricate choreography that showcased each dancer’s talent as they took up nearly the entire gym. “Performing with the dance team was super exciting,” says

dance team member Maritza Jean-Pierre.

“We honestly did amazing and it always feels like a dream dancing with them.” The almost 7 minute routine left the students cheering in glee one moment, and mouths gaping the next. Their black, red and white checkered outfits made the performance even more impactful, as all eyes were immediately drawn to them.

The 2018 pep rally was unique in its entirety and had performances that perfectly matched this year’s homecoming theme, Havana nights. More teams, clubs and sports had their time to shine that day as well. Typically, pep rallies are an hour and thirty minutes long, but with Thursday being early release day, SGA was on a time crunch to fit the best performances into forty-five minutes. The performances, that never fail to impress, left students eager and filled with school spirit for that night’s homecoming game.

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Photos By: Andy Alfon

fonso and Aijah

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Dancing Through

Ariana Ortiz &

Managing Editor - We

As the clock struck seven, dozens of stu-

dents made their way, accompanied by their friends and dates, to the transformed Charter campus. A Havana Nights painting hung on the walls of the M building and lights strung along the hallway lead students to the center of the dance. October 27, 2018, marked the first PPCHS outdoor homecoming, and it was surely one to remember. With the theme of Havana Nights, SGA went all out to give Jaguars a taste of the streets in Havana, Cuba. As you entered down the hallway to arrive at the dance, anticipation filled the students. Red ambient lighting flooded the hall as you walked through a sequined curtain to a hallway adorned with decorations of flowers, dominoes, and a gorgeous banner of the streets of Cuba with a beautiful sunset background. Students then checked in with PPCHS teachers dressed for the occasion and entered the dance.

Having an outdoor homecoming was a very controversial topic leading up to the big day, but SGA went all out to make sure the dance was perfect. Students entered the dance to see a large light up sign that said “Havana” over the fountain. The fountain was draped with cloth and had lights and colorful decorations all around it to dress it up for the night. On the opposite side was the DJ Booth and dance floor, decked out with lights and smoke machines to make it a true party scene. Tables were set up on either side of the M building with beautiful centerpieces on each table, featuring large tropical leaves laid out and a vase filled with real coffee beans and gorgeous flowers. The most exciting decorations of the night were two old school cars! Cuba is known for having the most over the top and stylish old school cars to cruise down the streets in. SGA brought in, not only one, but two of these beautiful

cars, one in a fiery bright red, and the other a shiny black. “I was really impressed with homecoming. This was my first one and I’m really happy I went. My friends and I danced all night and had a great time.

Those cars they brought were so cool, I took so many pictures! Students were lined up to take pictures next these beauties,” said freshman Gabriella Luna SGA was committed to making sure the theme was apparent through the whole dance, all the way down to the food! Chartwells provided a great meal that consisted of juicy Cuban pork sandwiches, white rice, black beans, baked plantains, and saucy chicken. To top it all off, the dessert station featured churros with a choice of raspberry or caramel sauce, or a rice pudding cup laid out buffet style. The food transported you to a café in Havana. If the students weren’t dancing or enjoying Cu-

Photos By: Andy Alfonso

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h the Havana Night & Rachel rivera

Web & Lifestyle Editor

so and

ban cuisine, they were posing in every spot, making sure to take all photo opportunities available. Sophomore Rachel Bernard says, “The area was filled with tons of cute decorations, flowers, and the two classic cars were perfect for picture opportunities! Everything came together so well my worries about how it would look were quickly forgotten.”

The student body gathered around the fountain and let loose, dancing with friends and significant others. Although all grade levels were welcomed to attend, attendees consisted mostly of the class of 2019 students.

The seniors gathered with groups of friends on the dance floor as they enjoyed their last high school dance, some also marking the night as their first. The only thing that stopped the students from dancing was the reveal of this year’s homecoming king and queen. SGA president Krissana Abolafia was called to the DJ booth to announce

Francesca Brito

homecoming royalty Chad Epps and Zaira Nunez as Pines Charter’s 2018 homecoming king and queen. The senior couple took to the center of the dance floor to get crowned and share a special slow dance. Senior and SGA president Krissana Abolafia says, “We had been working on HOCO for 3 months just preparing the centerpieces, food, lighting, security…so we could transform our fountain area into Havana. We set up tables, chairs, lighting, fencing, and we even decorated the M building, so students had plenty of photo-ops. It was amazing seeing that all of the hard work in planning and setting up had paid off. It brought tears to my eyes when Mr. Curry called me up to the booth to announce HOCO king and Queen because at this moment I realized that this was my last homecoming as a Charter student. All of the negative energy and comments previously surrounding our outdoor HOCO was put to

rest by the overwhelming amount of compliments.” As the night came to an end, the students gathered for one last dance of the night and the seniors enjoyed the bittersweet moments of their last homecoming.

Students danced until the very last minute, shutting the party down at exactly 11 pm.

For almost two hours after the students went home, SGA stayed and turned “Havana” back into the PPCHS courtyard. All in all, homecoming was a major success!

24 Features CHARTER HIGH ACADEMIC TIMES

Behind the Scenes with SGA’s President Krissana Abolafia

Students flashing colors from bright blue

to sunshine yellow and extravagant costumes filling the hallways with detail. This was Charter High’s spirit week of 2018.

Dancers performing and the crowd roaring to cheer on Charter’s various sports and clubs and allowed the student body to be represented effectively. Pep Rally was nothing short of a success for PPCHS. The Homecoming theme of “Havana Nights” with lively outdoor spirit and something different for jags is brought to the table for the homecoming dance of 2018. SGA has been vigorously working long and hard for the success of PPCHS’ on goings. But what really goes on behind closed doors to make these events happen?

SGA President Krissana Abolafia is only one of the many who assist with the preparation of these fun-filled events, starting with the Homecoming theme. She said, “[Creating] the Homecoming theme is a tedious process. Essentially, sophomores and juniors within SGA came up with different

ideas and voted on the top 5. These top 5 were then sent to Ms. Battle for approval, and then created a ballot in which the entire student body was able to vote on.” This lengthy process was finalized at the end of the last school year, which comes to show the immense preparation months in advance.

Although SGA wished to try something different and have this year’s homecoming dance take place outside, not everyone was a huge fan of this idea. However, SGA has been working non-stop and is in constant contact with the student body to get everybody on board. To ease up to this idea with the student body, SGA decided as a board to create a ‘Frequently Asked Questions’ sheet. “We felt this was necessary and allows students to feel like they have an open relationship with us, and to be comfortable with bringing any questions or concerns to us,” Abolafia said.

Spirit week themes were also established beforehand within SGA. Abolafia continues, saying, “For spirit week themes, the committee chose a bunch of themes, and SGA

voted on the top 8 ideas.” These ideas were once again sent to Ms. Battle for approval.

Afterwards, it was simply a matter of getting the word out around the school. But the class had to work hard to spread the word about the theme, including making flyers and posting on social media. Promoting for the spirit week themes was quite the effort and work.

However, social media was used as a wide platform to inform students and make sure everybody was up to date on what’s happening with Spirit Week.

In addition, pep rally was yet another ongoing that needed to be figured out and planned beforehand in order for it to be a successful and memorable one. However, this year was a bit more restricting in terms of preparing in advance, as the week was shorter and it also happened to occur on an early release day, where time is limited. Abolafia states, “Pep rally was definitely a challenge this

year, mostly because it was 30 minutes shorter than any other pep rally we’ve ever planned before! We also had many performers, clubs, and sports teams that wished to be represented somehow in pep rally this year. So we had to try to squeeze everyone in within a 45-minute period, which was very demanding.” In spite of the obstacles, SGA managed to make it work, and pep rally was surely a success!

From pep rally to spirit week to homecoming themes, SGA has had a great amount on their hands all crammed within the first couple months of the school year. Although it’s been very hectic for the committee, they have been in contact with countless students and made sure that these events were surely a successful and memorable one for jags. Thanks to SGA, our school experience is shaped better and brighter by the minute.

Donated by: Krissana Abolafia

Taking the Mic John Lynch

E

ach year at pep rally, students sit on the edge of their seats listening to every last word the master of ceremonies’ speak. From introducing the sports teams to throwing out jokes, the speakers lead the crowd and guide the event. The MC’s need to be outgoing, funny, and loud in order to captivate the crowd and keep their attention. This is just the job for senior John Lynch.

Lynch is known by his friends as a jokester - someone who is always having fun and dragging people into his entertaining theatrics. His personality spread across the gym during pep rally, but this didn’t come without hard work and practice. Leading up to the big event, Lynch practiced alongside his co-MC, junior Briana Alvarez. He said, “First, I talked to Krissana [Abolafia] about being the person at pep rally who reads off all the sports team. She said I could do it, but I thought she was joking. I kept asking to make sure she was being serious.” After getting her legitimate approval, he met with Briana and Krissana to decide the order in which the sports teams would be called out and to practice reading each name.

The duo took turns as they loudly read off team by team, alternating who read to make sure there would be no mess ups during the actual event. Johnny took the script home, and amidst his other school work and outside activities, he practiced reading it and got a feel for which teams came when. He said, “I practiced before the pep rally because I didn’t want to forget the script and look stupid.” As for the other events that took place during pep rally, he read over the entire script a few times to feel comfortable enough with it that he could “come up with something off the top of [his] head if [he] forgot.”

He also worked to make sure his voice

would be loud enough to be heard loud and clear through the microphone and to feel comfortable while standing in front of the entire gym. Although this was Lynch’s first time speaking in front of the school. As for Briana, she she had more experience under her belt, as she does the morning announcements with senior Marlon Tang How. Lynch knew in order to really do his best, he had to practice and get any nerves out before the big day.

As for those who attended pep rally, they were witness to Lynch’s outgoing and comical personality carrying itself across the room as his voice boomed through the microphone. Lynch perfectly encompassed the peppiness and school spirit needed to make a great MC.

Donated by: Blake Rodriguez

Features 25

Drumming Her Way to Leadership

CHARTER HIGH ACADEMIC TIMES

Muriel Morales

T

he precise steps and flick of the drumstick doesn't come easily to the PPCHS drumline. Their endless practice times and endurance derives from a determined goal to satisfy their audience. However like every team out there, the school's drumline has a determined leader who is nothing less than passionate – especially when it comes to pep rally performances.

One of the major events the drumline participates in is pep rally and the football games.

“For pep rally, we have a drumline class, so we practice cadences and any songs that we play for the pep rally as well as football games there,” she said. Small qualities that stand out from the dedicated drummer are giving out tips to her members and leading the cadences - which is the small sections of music they perform. When senior Muriel Morales was made drumline captain her senior year, she knew this was her chance to not just prove to her band director and fellow drummers, but to herself that she could make the drumline as great as possible. “My

main goal when I became captain was to develop our drumline into the best one it can be and further grow as a section,” said Morales. Their memorized and detailed songs aren’t easy, it takes hours of practice which Muriel makes sure implement in the whole section. The dedicated musician coordinates practice times with everyone to make sure everyone is able to attend.

“It’s essential that everyone shows up as we all assist each other in different pieces of music,” she stated. The practice times they do run from 3:30-6:30 every Tuesday and Thursday during competition season.

“I sacrifice a lot and energy to make sure I perfect everything I do in drumline,” commented Morales.

Aside from the designated time the captain has practicing with her team she makes sure to squeeze in some individual practice time to assure she overcomes every small obstacle. Morales also coordinates with the band director, Mr. Espinosa, on practice times and keeps him updated

on what going on with the cadences. As Muriel tells her members, “I encourage the other members of the line to practice by reminding them that the only we can be better as a section is through hard work, practice, endurance, positivity, and work-

ing together.”

A look into the complicated life of drumline captain comes to show that the amazing sounds that she creates with her drum has a more enduring story.

Donated by: Blake Rodriguez

Once a Jaguar, Always a Jaguar William Manuel

Senior William Manuel’s love for the sport

Donated by: William manuel

Photo by: Lillian McCormick

of football is inexplicable. After playing football for the first time when he was eight years old, he instantly fell in love with the sport. A prideful West Miramar Patriot for the entirety of his youth, William Manuel dedicated his life to the extreme sport that is football. After a year of playing for the West Miramar Patriots, football immediately consumed William’s life. Being the first football player in the family, William Manuel brought the football lifestyle to the Manuel household. He spent hours upon hours playing, training, and watching football. Once he fell in love with football, not one day went by where William didn’t either play, watch, or talk about the sport. Growing up watching and idolizing the Tennessee Titans and Mississippi State Bulldogs, he immersed himself into the sport. With over ten years of football experience, Will joined the Pines Charter Jaguars’ football program with no hesitation.

The Jaguars quarterback is not just any ordinary athlete. What makes Will different from the average athlete is his commitment and dedication to the sport. Football isn’t just a hobby for him, it is a lifestyle.

Spending hours upon hours training in the blazing South Florida heat and countless hours pumping iron in the gym was nothing out of the ordinary, for Will. The dedication and hard work that Will exhibited is what produced him into the dominant and prominent athlete that he is. These attributes are what earned William the starting varsity quarterback spot for over two years now. He also had to learn how to balance his life in school, as well. Volunteering at local community events and a schedule full of AP classes, isn’t something that’s easy to manage. “It's very difficult. All 6 of my classes the last two years have been AP classes.

Football takes a large amount of time and commitment but I have managed it so far,” Manuel tells the CHAT. On top of time man-

agement skills, William Manuel has also learned how to be a leader. He learned how to be part of a team as well as lead a team to be the best it can be. “I am very thankful for all of the lessons I’ve learned along my journey playing football. It has really shaped me into the man I am today,” said Manuel.

Although it was spirit week, the Jaguar captain never lost focus. Palm Glades Prep Academy was on the clock. It was the Pines Charter High School Homecoming football game and celebration. Your Jaguars did not let the Spirit Week antics disrupt their focus on the challenge ahead of them William Manuel lead his team to a great week of practice and the right mindset for the game ahead of them.

Sadly, this will be William Manuel’s last season as a Pembroke Pines Charter Jaguar.

The starting quarterback has grown a strong connection to the coaching staff and teammates, throughout his high school football career. Emotions are flying for the captain.

Being his last season playing high school football, this season could very well be the last season of football he’ll ever play.

The last game of the 2018 season could very well be the last time William Manuel every puts pads on again. “I know I'm going cry my eyes out after that last game.

I've played every year for the last 10 years and I can't imagine life without it,” Manuel explains. Not only has William made an impact on the field, being the tremendous athlete he is, he also created a standard off the field. He has instilled a standard of excellence into the Jaguar football program, and created a brotherhood and camaraderie that will never be broken.

26 Sports CHARTER HIGH ACADEMIC TIMES

Pink-Out Homecoming Game Brings Charter Cheer Sofia Azcurra, Austin Basso, & Michael Muela

Pink smoke filled the air as the foot-

entertainment

Editor, Staff Writer, & Staff Writer

ball team ran out with smoke flares in their midnight black uniforms, a beautiful symphony blaring from the band, and fans roared for their Jaguars. The sunset surrounded the stadium with a warm glow as students and teachers filled the seats with hopeful thoughts. Pink balloons and pink shirts were spotted like dots in the stands.

To say the pink out homecoming game was a success is a huge understatement.

The opposing team, Palm Glades Prep Academy, started off with a determined goal. Even though Charter went down early, they used the crowd and the momentous occasion to keep them pushing. Senior Leanna Basanta had nothing but admiration for the team as they worked through the rough defense of the opposing team.

She said, “It was my first football game ever, [and] although the outcome wasn't the greatest, the people’s confidence and pride was really cool.” During the small breaks, the excited crowd treated themselves to the concession stand or bought t-shirts to help the fight against cancer. Volunteers handed out pink pom-poms to encourage more support for cancer which only increased the crowd’s never-ending support.

As Charter’s tired yet steadfast team took a rest at halftime with the score still looking rough, the support from the stands never wavered once. The band amazed the crowd with their intricate performance that never fails to astound the audience. Taking on an old vibe with songs like “September” and “Everytime We Touch”, they added the finishing sparkle to the night’s spectacle.

The band’s sparkle wasn’t the only thing that stood out however. “Playing at my first homecoming game was so much fun!

I loved that it was pink out,” said freshman Stephanie Manrique. The cheerleaders also performed on the sidelines, cheering on their team and hyping the crowd up. The cheerleaders put on their best performance of a very productive year for them.

“Our expectations for every game is always to win and have a healthy game,” said Keidran Willis, the head coach of the Pines Charter football team. “The seniors

have built a foundation for the future of the program and the underclassmen have the blueprint on how to move this program in the right direction.” Players also felt great about the homecoming game and playing in it but had mixed feelings about their performance in the annual event. “I don't know how to describe my feelings after the game. You could say I was disappointed.

Even though we lost I still love my brothers and have faith in them until the very end,” revealed football player sophomore Charles St. Louis.

As the cheerleaders came on the stands and cheered alongside the people in the stands, the mascot, which could be spotted throughout the field, encouraged the crowd into a playful mood as he made everyone participate in doing a wave.

The Jaguars felt confident heading into the game after a great week of practice, but quarterback Will Manuel didn’t play as well as he’d hoped. “I feel like I could’ve played a lot better,” said the senior quarterback, “I didn’t do bad but I didn’t perform to the best of my ability.” Manuel also stated that the team let themselves down based on how they played. Starting Free Safety and Punter, senior Jason Lozama, a key contributor to the Jags all year said, “I hope the team can learn to keep fighting and always stay as one.” He also hopes that the team can recruit more students to join the team and have everyone come to practice in the offseason to better prepare. “We started building these with these wins, so I hope more kids come.”

The final score of the game was 48-0 in favor of Palm Glades Prep Academy. The loss drops Pines Charter’s record to 2-7, and the team has two games left this season.

Although the result did not go in Charter’s favor, people congratulated the players on their hard work and recognized their strong fight. The spirit filled connection is what made that charter homecoming an unforgettable one. Defeat was most definitely in the air but so was a wave of support for the team that never fails to show us how hard they work.

Photos By: Lillian McCormick

Keep Calm and Play Powder Puff

Jordan Alberti & Ainsley McCormick Sports Editor & Editor-in-Chief

On

the night of Friday, October 26, 2018 the energy filling the PPCHS stadium at Charter’s Powder Puff game was unmatched, as it infected everyone in attendance. Members of the Student Government Association (SGA) greeted students and their families at the gates. They collected an entrance fee of $3 or more, which would be donated to the Trenton Saunders Foundation Scholarship, benefit-

Photo By: Andres Alfonso

ing a student at our school. To the right of the entrance, the concession stand was open with PTA parent volunteers selling a variety of treats, just as they do at every home football game. Instantly, the spectators were met with Mr. Curry’s booming voice, as he made jokes and comments that kept the crowd amused while they watched the already entertaining game. Sophomore Frankie Pinales said, “Mr. Curry was on fire as the announcer. His jokes and attitude made the event funnier than it already was.

Powder Puff was really fun.”

Arguably the stars of the show, the male cheerleaders were front and center on the field. Complete with pink tutus, a pink wig, dresses, and more, they stole the show.

“Yeah, I was the one with the pink tutu,” admits senior Enrique Valls. “I wanted to go all out. It’s senior year, so why not?”

The boys spent several practices learning the classic cheers that the cheerleading team performs at games. Taking it a step further by practicing their special surprise, the boys shocked the crowd and formed a pyramid. Senior Ryan Gonzalez said, “It was really funny to watch the cheerleaders

go all out on the sidelines. I had a blast and it was a great event all around.” The crowd seemed to be in awe as the boys executed their toe touch jump, one by one, as they each shouted out the letters to spell J-AG-U-A-R. Behind the cheerleaders stood student coaches, who were extremely interactive with their teams throughout the game. The maroon team, coached by seniors Tyler Phillips and William Manuel, faced off against the white team, coached by junior Joshua Evans and senior Shanthan Manhendren. Throughout the game, the student coaches could be seen running up and down the field, as the followed alongside the female players. They were as deeply engrossed and invested in the game as professional coaches. Each time Manuel’s team would score, he ran throughout the end zone with his arms high above his head, holding up the number one. The cheerleaders waved their poms poms wildly, running down the field to meet the girls in the end zone. “Powder puff was an intense and hard game, but overall it was so fun playing against each other just

messing around and having a good time,” said freshman player Leyla Molina. The game ended with a final score of 24 - 0, with maroon team taking the victory.

All in all, it was a great night for everyone involved. While the night was festive, the money raised, along with the donations made, will go towards a great cause and the fun-filled night will end up benefiting a Charter student through the Trent Saunders Scholarship.

Photo By: Lillian McCormick

How to Make the Perfect Spooky Basket

Lifestyle 27

CHARTER HIGH ACADEMIC TIMES

Ariana Ortiz

Managing Editor - Web

October is all about the Halloween spirit and getting spooky! When you think of Halloween, makeup, costumes, candy corn, and trick or treating are a few things that come to mind, not gifts! This year, however, Halloween themed baskets or “Spooky baskets” are the biggest craze.

Spooky baskets are a great way to show your friends, family, and significant others that you appreciate them, especially if they love Halloween! The best part is that the baskets can be personalized to the recipient, making every spooky basket unique and special. If you still need some more ideas for your spooky basket, don't fret!

This guide is here to save the day.

1.

Start with a cute container!

Everything solid must have a good foundation and the same goes for your spooky baskets! Before you start adding the gifts inside, grab a spooky trick or treat basket from Walmart, Target, or the Dollar Store for the best presentation.

2. Candy is always a yes!

Even though we may be too old to go trick or treating, that doesn’t mean everyone still doesn’t enjoy some candy! Fill your basket with the receiver's favorite sweets treats! (Bonus if the wrapping is Halloween themed!)

3. Always remember the classics!

Graphic By: Jasmine Bleus Classic Halloween movies like Hocus Pocus, Goosebumps, and Coralline are great gifts for any spooky basket. If your recipient is Halloween fanatic, you may even want to throw in a classic horror movie like IT or The Shining.

4. Comfy Halloween Gear!

Halloween themed pajamas, hoodies, slip-

pers, socks, robes, and even onesies are perfect gifts for a spooky basket. If you're planning to stay in on Halloween night, these items will be sure to make your night as perfect as possible. No matter who your recipient is, they will love some comfy Halloween gear. You can also pick something that coincides with their unique style.

Best gift ever!

5. Games and Activities!

If your basket is for your BFF, adding a spooky game or activity is always a fun idea. Card games, board games, recipes with ingredients, video games, and even pumpkins to carve are all great activities to do with a friend. Not only does your friend get a great gift, but they get the most priceless gift of all: memories!

6. Personalize to your spooky basket receiver!

Nothing feels better than knowing someone took the time to make something for you that reflects everything you love. If the recipient is a sports fanatic, a jersey or memorabilia of their favorite team is a great spooky basket gift. If your recipient loves pampering, face masks, bath bombs, and any other bath, a beauty product is a perfect addition. (Bonus if they are orange or black!) Stick to what your recipient loves and your spooky basket will be a hit.

7. Top it off with a note!

Even though you may have ripped through the card and straight to the gift as a kid, handwritten notes are a great way to show someone you care.

Have a great time making your baskets this Spook-tober!

Movies Show Turnover on Terror Emma Caulfield Co-Features Editor

H

orror is a genre that has been favorited by many, especially teenagers, for generations. Horror officially became a genre in 1765 when a book was published that led to the rise of horror. In 1896, the first horror movie was released. From there, the horror genre became very popular. From Halloween (1978) or IT (1990) horror has given many people chills and screams that are always worth it in the end. However, the perspective of what is found “scary” is beginning to change in this day and age as directors are changing the way horror movies are made.

On September 8, 2017 a “newer” version of the movie IT was released and on October 18, 2018 a newer Halloween movie was released. The plot may be the same, but the execution is different. This is just for remakes, there are movies such as The First Purge (2018) or Happy Death Day (2017) that were named “horror” but really had a more comedic genre to them. For this reason, the horror genre may begin to die down.

Horror movies have become funnier as opposed to scary. Sophomore Sydney Crawford said, “I’ve seen so many horror movies.

I’ve seen the older ones such as Poltergeist and the original IT. I remember last year I saw the remake of IT, I don’t think I’ve ever laughed so much during a horror movie. The way it was made, it seems like it was intentionally funny because of the way the four boys were speaking to one another and the way certain scenes were shot. I walked away thinking ‘Wow that was funny!’” Crawford

agrees with the fact that horror movies in this generation have become funny as opposed to scary.

Because many children and teenagers are characters into these movies, directors decided to create scripts so that they can say or do certain things that are meant to make audiences laugh. Another way to look at this is the way movie makers create the suspense or give the horror movies that scary vibe. “I just think that horror scenes in these movies nowadays have [become] really predictable.

Like over the summer I saw The First Purge and I didn’t flinch once, every time somebody popped up I saw it coming. The same goes for Happy Death Day... that movie was basically the same scene with the same murderer every time so I wasn’t even scared or had my guard up for sudden pop-ups because it was just so predictable,” said junior Grant Sinclair. These predictable, basic jump scares that Sinclair refers to are in many horror movies released today. Sinclair gave two examples, Insidious: The Last Key (2018) or Krampus (2015), which have simple, predictable scares such as pop-ups when the lights flicker or basic jump scares.

Horror movies today have taken a toll where it’s become more funny than scary.

Even when scary factors are implemented into movies, they are simple and predictable and therefore don’t shock audiences. It seems to be coming to a point where Monsters Inc. have scares that shock the audience more than today’s horror movies.

What’s Trending?

As autumn season and Halloween are

fast approaching, new trends have popped up among the kids at Charter. Every year, pumpkin spice latte flavors make a comeback at Starbucks, and this year is no different. Students can be seen each morning, streaming in from the student parking lot with their Starbucks cup in hand, whether it be an iced or hot beverage. “I get my Starbucks every day, and I usually get iced tea, however, when pumpkin spice lattes come back I make sure to get that every morning instead. It’s like a fall tradition,” said freshman Kristin Ward.

Kids can be seen walking down every hallway throughout school with headphones in listening to their favorite tunes. Rather

Graphic By: Henrey Severe

Ainsley McCormick Editor-In-Chief

than the normal earbuds plugged into a phone, students have been using Apple Air Pods. These headphones are bluetooth connected to an Apple device and allow easy streaming. Many students have been arriving at school with their Air Pods in their ears, and even though this tiny device may seem easy to lose, the sleek look they provide outweighs any negative side-effect.

Although Florida receives the cold weather more rarely than other states, students are still beginning to showcase their fall fashion. A popular clothing item that’s trending right now is quarter-zip jackets.

These jackets only zip down three-quarters of the way, so they can be worn by themselves. In addition, thick shirts have been

becoming popular. Corduroy and denim skirts can be seen worn by anyone who wants a cute, chic outfit without following the basic denim high-waisted shorts look.

In regards to the Homecoming dance, floral shirts are a popular subject among many of the boys, as they hope to follow the ‘Havana Nights’ theme. These shirts are a fashionable switch from dress shirts, offering both style and the benefit of keeping the boys cool on the dance floor. “I am going to wear a floral button-down shirt to the dance,” said senior Rithwik Nambiar.

“My whole group of friends decided that this will be a better idea than a suit.”

These trends are sure to last, but as always, new trends will soon arise.