The CHAT Newspaper - Election 2012 Issue

Student Life October 2012 Brianna Cha-Kim STUDENT LIFE EDITOR

2 Pines Charter’s pageant princesses

Pines Charter’s student body is incredibly diverse; varying in terms of race, religion, extracurricular activities, and sports. Senior Jessica Carvajal and sophomore Kayla Gallego are two of Charter’s very own students who have a unique interest in the pageant world.

In February, senior Jessica Carvajal participated in the Miss Miramar Teen USA pageant. After winning Miss Miramar Teen, Caravajal was set to compete in the largest state pageant: Miss Florida Teen.

Towards the end of October, the Miss Florida Teen pageant took place. This pageant is the official qualifier towards Miss Teen USA, Miss USA, and Miss Universe.

Lasting from October 19th to the 21st, the pageant took place at the Bailey Concert Hall at the Broward College Central Campus. The hosts of the show were Channel 10 reporter Scott Padgett and WPLG News reporter, Constance Jones. All pageant participants were girls from all over Florida; every Floridian city was represented by a candidate. There were a total of 70 girls in the pageant. Only young women, ages 1418 years old, were eligible to participate.

Starting on Friday at 9 a.m. all participants attended a seminar where they all became acquainted with one another and spoke excitedly about the upcoming event.

After the seminar the pageant contestants were taken into a rehearsal that lasted from morning to night. In preparation of the upcoming big day, there was little to no rest at all. Gallego said, “The rehearsal was very tiring; at the same time, it was the most fun I have had in a long time. After such a long time of waiting for this great event, it was finally here!’

On Saturday the preliminaries took place.

Every contestant now had the opportunity to introduce themselves to the judges. The contestants also modeled a gown and a swimsuit. Carvajal was given the chance to create the pageant dress she wore for the judges. She was one of the few girls who completed a design for her own dress: “I was very happy that I was able to design my own dress. That has always been one of my dreams when it came to pageants.

My goal was not only to do well in the competition but to have one day I was able to show off my fashion skills.” The majority of the contestants had a designer create their dresses without their personal input.

In addition, the contestants also performed a dance routine during the preliminaries.

On Sunday, decisions were made. The judges chose 16 contestants out of the 70, and out of the 16, 5 were then chosen.

The girls underwent an interview with the judges, answering questions to prove why they should be crowned Miss Florida Teen.

The contestants each had to make a speech,

A Day in the life of an SGA member

exemplifying leadership and respectable qualities. The judges of the pageant were looking for more than a pretty face; the contestants had to prove their ability to be a role model for young girls and the ability to care about others.

Sydney Martinez, the winner of the 2012 Miss Florida Teen pageant, made her final walk Pageant Princesses: Senior Jessica Carvajal and Sophmore Kayla Gallego participate as Miss Florida in local pageants. Photo By Johmi Vargas Teen. Martinez gave up her crown to Brianne Bailey, the Kayla Gallego disprove the known stereowinner of the 2013 Miss Florida Teen pag- type of pageant princesses. Blessed with eant. The runner-up was Jordan Thayer beauty, brains, and a caring heart, the two from Sarasota. contestants were content with the outcome All the hopeful pageant queens stayed at of the pageant. Although they did not win, the Marriott hotel over the weekend. The the experience was enlightening and both girls bonded together, even taking part in felt honored to participate in such an event. a pajama party. After the conclusion of the The pageant will air on TV as a special pageant, all the contestants and their fami- feature sometime in November, approachlies all dined together. ing Thanksgiving. The official date is not Senior Jessica Carvajal and sophomore yet confirmed.

Hurricane Sandy Devastates the Northeast

know the amount of work that goes into Hayley Coolidge and Jacob Isenberg decades, residents were at a loss of how to planning them. SGA has a lock-in, where STAFF WRITERS prepare for the storm. Many households Ever wonder what it would be like to be in they stay all night in the gym setting up Hurricane Sandy has traveled up the en- were without shutters and had no knowlStudent Government Association (SGA)? everything that goes into our amazing pep tire east coast wreaking havoc in the New edge about hurricanes or tropical storms.

SGA is a student governing organiza- rallies. “I am part of the committee that York/ New Jersey area and other northeast They prepared their basements and went tion that manages much of the events at plans pep rallies, and I love it,” said senior states. This hurricane briefly skimmed the into hiding for the next few days.

PPCHS, from pep rally to homecoming to Katherine Conrad. “Lock-ins are so much Southeastern United States with its outMany stores, schools, and public transfundraising events for the school. Though fun, and it’s even more fun to see all of the skirts causing little damage to Florida. port services closed over the weekend in many think all Student Government does students having a great time during the pep As the storm continued up the east coast preparation for Sandy. The New York is paint banners and eat cakes, there’s a lot rally!” The night starts off with work, for it grew stronger came ashore as a tropical Stock Exchange and Wall Street have been more work that goes on behind the scenes. one of SGA’s mottos is “Work now, play storm in the New York/ New Jersey area. closed for two days but are set to reopen on SGA is made up of 41 members who later”. After hanging up the numerous ban- Still though, many people have nicknamed Wednesday. Mostly all of the stores lining dedicate themselves to the student body ners and organizing everything for the next this depression “Super Storm Sandy” be- the streets of New York and the northeastand organizing student events. While they morning, the fun begins. The members sit cause it has caused the worst flooding this ern states were closed along with schools, work very hard but also have fun. “We are in a circle and answer several personal and area has seen in decades. government offices, airports, and public like a family,” says senior George Cor- emotional questions. Junior Nicole Batista Junior Chrishawn Pearson has family that transportation, including the subways. Ofrea, “We spend so much time together and says, “Boundary Breaking is just that: we lives in Queens, an area that has been hit ficials have never experienced the flooding we are always working and laughing. We all let our guards down and expose our- especially hard. Fires have destroyed over of subways, causing uncertainty of what to make our work fun, which makes sorting selves to SGA. We all have each other’s fifty homes, and falling trees, high winds, do. No one could have prepared for a hurwristbands and contacting administration backs. It’s certainly what brings us close and extreme flooding have devastated the ricane of this caliber. likeable.” One of the favorite traditions of and what makes us a family.” area.

While Hurricane Sandy seems far away, SGA is their birthday tradition. Every sinRecently, SGA has been working to put “When I talked to my family, they were it has made an impact on students here at on an amazing homecoming for our getting ready for the storm,” said Pear- PPCHS. Many students have families that students. “It’s been really hard, but I son. “They did not evacuate, but they are live in the Northeast that are feeling the full know all of this hard work will pay off building up the basement to prepare for the effects of what experts are calling the ‘Perwhen this year’s homecoming dance flooding.” fect Storm.’ is the best one ever,” adds junior and Students have not been the only people After the storm passes, the period of reSGA treasurer Francesca Levy. Some affected at by Hurricane Sandy at Charter. covery and restoration will begin. It will people do not realize how much mon- Our Principal, Mr. Bayer, has two brothers take an estimated $50 billion dollars to ey goes into organizing these events. that live in the Northeast, along with his repair all of the damage—damage that Many students have been complain- parents. can take an extremely long time to repair. ing about homecoming being too “This storm is nothing like I have ever However, the power will come back soon expensive, and wondering where all seen. My parents, who are down here right and life will soon be back to normal for the money goes to. However, paying now, have not been able to even fly home,” people affected by Hurricane Sandy. for Signature Grand, DJ Crespo, the said Mr. Bayer. “I have one brother that decorations, t-shirts and more adds lives in in Rochester, and another who up quickly- not to mention making lives in Connecticut.” the dance as classy as possible with a A former PPCHS student, Julie Jarema, is restricted amount of money. “We are attending New York University in Manhatdoing the best we can to make home- tan. Her sister, junior Sarah Jarema, has coming affordable, while also making been in contact with her throughout the it enjoyable,” said Levy. storm.

SGA: George Correa and Francesca Levy are SGA memIn addition to homecoming, SGA “My sister tells me the flooding is unbers and help out with events. Photo By: Johmi Vargas collects money to give to charity, a believable,” says Sarah Jarema. “But the gle member’s birthday is celebrated in Stu- variety of student events, and county dues. University has taken many measures to dent Government. The person who last had SGA members are working hard to make keep the students safe, so I’m happy.” a birthday is responsible for making a cake every PPCHS student’s high school experi- As of early Tuesday morning there are reand bringing it in for the birthday boy/girl. ence the best it possibly can be. So when- portedly 8 million people without power in All students look forward to and enjoy ever you see an SGA member, think twice the northeastern area. Since the area hasn’t Graphic By Nick LeeYee pep rallies at our school, but many do not before you judge their role. experienced a storm this powerful in many Nicholas D’ Agostino Troy Bottom he taff Editor-in-Chief News Editor CONTENT STAFF: Gabriela Cabeza The C.H.A.T. is an official publication of Nicolette Sponer-Content Brianna Cha-Kim Brett Alayon, Andrea Bellorin, Cassidy-Rae Photo Editor Joshua Alleman -Layout Student Life Editor Brantley, Jessica-Lynn Carvajal, Chelsie Chang, the Pembroke Pines Charter High School Managing Editors Hayley Coolidge, Jake Dreilinger, Gabriela (PPCHS). The content of our newspaper Julian Graves Alexandra Mangano Garcia, Jacob Isenberg , Anthony Kellher, Chelsie is not necessarily the opinions of our adGraphics Editor Alexandra Mangano Technology Editor visers and administration. The C.H.A.T. Ramos, Nina Salcicciloi, Melissa Sullivan Web Managing Editor staff welcomes any comments to the ediLAYOUT STAFF: Angelique Berkowitz Christopher Fernandez Peter Dourvetakis Entertainment Editor Video Editor Victoria Alvarez, Jake Dreilinger, Annette Marin, tors and/or staff. The C.H.A.T is a publicaGabriela Garcia William McKinley, Melissa Sullivan, Jonathan tion of C.H.C (Charter High CommunicaBusiness Managers David Nabors Tabraue Emily Semander tions) sponsored by the Communications Sports Editor PHOTOGRAPHY STAFF: Cartoonist & Technology Department of PPCHS. Mr. Fagen - Content Natalia Cevallos, Peter Dourvetakis, JP Dussan, Mr. Simon - Layout Jordana Cutajar Rebecca Gonzalez, Alex Monge, Carli Stander, Pembroke Pines Charter High School Advisers Features Editor Johmi Vargas 17189 Sheridan Street GRAPHICS STAFF: Pembroke Pines, FL 33331 Mr. Bayer Victoria Alvarez Nick Lee Yee, Armando Urena Principal Phone: 954-538-3700 Environmental Editor VIDEO STAFF: Email: chatnews@pinescharter.com Andres Gonzalez, Kyle Moss-Solomon Twitter: @_theCHATter Jacob Isenberg STAFF WRITER

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C. H. A. T. S

Working teens: Dirty dishes or filthy fashion?

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Student Life October 2012

Victoria Alvarez & Gabriela Garcia ENVIRONMENTA EDITOR & STAFF WRITER

Today’s teenagers crave an abundance of objects. Commonly superficial and materialistic, these desires can range from a new car to better grades, to this fashion season’s must-have shoes and tickets to the next pop music concert. Regardless of the teens’ interests, their demands all seem to have one thing in common: expenses. At a certain age, teenagers must stop relying on their parents to satisfy their expensive appetite, and that’s when reality comes to surface: it’s time to get a job. Restaurants and retail stores each offer a different style of work. The most obvious example being that one job will require taking orders and serving food, while the other will require folding clothes and selling merchandise to customers. In a restaurant, the atmosphere that teenagers work in is busy, loud, and extremely fast. If it’s a fast food restaurant, the workers are constantly moving - taking and placing orders, talking to driver’s through the drive-thru speaker, and handing out food to the hungry customers waiting in line. Ranging from the ages of fifteen to eighteen, most high school students start off their first day of work in a restaurant or retail store. But the question is which one is truly suited for a teenager’s lifestyle?

Interests and knowledge in certain fields play a huge part in determining where teenagers would be best suited to work at. They must keep in mind that the main goal as a worker is to sell the product. So whether they are promoting the “Soup of the Day” or last season’s items on the clearance rack, they must always show enthusiasm.

“Working at Chick-fil-A can be fun, but it’s also a lot of hard work. I love the people that I work with but it’s the people that you serve that can get on your nerves. Some customers are rude and obnoxious, but there are many nice and polite ones as well. You have to be okay with taking orders from supervisors, co-workers, and customers, without talking back. It’s more difficult than it seems.”

-Junior Twylyte Farell

Charter’s got talent?

cause I wanted to see what making my own world would seem like. I know this seems When passing by Pines Charter High cheesy and cliché-ish, but it’s true.” LookSchool, you just see a regular high school. ing at the world in a different point of view But when you look deep inside you can is how Ayanna can get her ideas. find some students with some really in“Well, I started beat boxing and humteresting talents and hobbies. Hobbies ming in fourth grade. That sparked my can consist of drawing, stamp collections, love for music,” says senior Stephan Kaloand photography, and are just a few out of geropoulos. “It increased in seventh grade thousands. Inside Charter you don’t have when I joined band and learned music in to look very far just to find someone with depth. I eventually found Fruity Loops. a talent. Whether the talent may be sing- Not many people heard it, so I just recently started recording. I will soon be releasing a mix tape called 100% Authentikal.”

When talking about his hobby, Kalogeropoulos couldn’t keep a smile off of his face. Anyone with eyes could see this is something he enjoys on an everyday bases.

Another uncommon talent is make-up designs. Junior Olivia Hamilton can turn any face into a work of art and do any hairstyle imaginable.

“I stumbled upon a make-up tutorial on YouTube and ended up loving it. So I went out and slowly started getting more makeup of all kinds and began Junior, Olivia Hamilton shows off her skills and talent for doing makeup.

Photo By: Johmi Vargas to experiment with it ing or dancing, someone right in these busy and fell in love with it. And once I had the hallways is oozing with a unique skill. make-up thing down it expanded it for my Junior Ayanna Linton is a writer. When love for different hairstyles, which I had she says writer, she means that she writes since I was little. I’m a perfectionist; if I stories in her past time. Anything from did someone’s make-up, I would want to love stories, to action, and even fiction are do their hair and outfit too,” said Hamilton. just some of the things that she puts her So there you have it Charter, here are imagination to. Linton said “Writing is my some unique and cool talents some stuescape from reality. It’s one that I make up, dents have at our school. So what’s yours? and not given to me. I guess I started beAmy Aitkens SPECIAL TO THE CHAT

“I work at Baker’s, where we sell high quality shoes. I’m required to wear high heels or dressy shoes purchased from there. I can see how it promotes the merchandise and advertises indirectly, but it can be a hassle and demanding of money.”

-Junior Isabella Angulo

“I work at Sushi Sogo and I love being able to work with food that’s so amazing. But the rules that my supervisors have set in place are pretty inconvenient to me. The main rule that affects me is the restriction against painting my nails. I work so close with food and my bosses prefer all of the workers to have clean hands. But when you’re a girl, it’s a bit hard to get used to.”

-Junior Jessi Rowe

Underclassmen climbing to the top Melissa Sullivan & Joshua Alleman STAFF WRITER & MANAGING EDITOR

With college acceptances becoming more difficult, the competition to get into the best schools is becoming more challenging. Even here at PPCHS, there has been a noticeable difference in the way students are competing for entry to the most popular schools in the country.

To catch the attention of these esteemed universities, students are assuming leadership roles in the school and surrounding community. Unlike past years here at PPCHS, underclassmen are beginning to step it up -- challenging themselves with rigorous AP courses and running for leadership roles. These leadership positions, most commonly earned by seniors, are now being administered to sophomores and even freshmen.

Take for instance sophomore Nick Azcarate: president of the Key Club, which is quite a feat in itself. Azcarate shines brighter than other schools’ Key Club presidents due to his status as a sophomore; having such a high position as an underclassman is unheard of. “I feel that by being president at a younger age gives me an advantage over upperclassmen. I hope to go on to a national level and catch the attention of my

top schools by doing so,” stated Azcarate.

Other students have also achieved high positions earlier than expected; an example is junior Alexander Rose. Rose is a Co-Drum Captain along with senior JeanPierre ‘JP’ Serrano. Drum captains—the highest possible position on the drumline—are mostly reserved for seniors, but Alexander Rose is another student exception to the rule. “Hard work and dedication can get you far in life; as long as you believe in yourself and try really hard to get to where you want in life, anything is possible,” says Rose. “Playing the drums has always been my passion so I practice all the time trying to do harder things and get better.”

Every student has a dream college that they want to attend. Many students now understand that in order to be granted entrance to their dream university, they must strive to set themselves apart from everyone else. Leadership roles have taken a turn. Underclassmen eager to stand out to college recruits are increasing the already intense competition juniors and seniors have among each other. The battle to catch the attention of perspective colleges is on.

Young and powerful: Students, Nick Azcarate and Alex Rose take on big roles at PPCHS. Photo By: Peter Dourvetaks

News October 2012

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The road to the White House runs through….Pines Charter?

David Nabors SPORTS EDITOR

Forty-five minutes, or 2,700 seconds, is a modest amount of time in the modern world we live in. In forty-five minutes, you can take a quick lunch break. You can take a short midday nap. If you’re a Pines Charter student, you can sit through most of one class. It is also that time it takes for a short drive up the highway to Lynn University in Boca Raton.

On Monday, October 22nd, forty-five minutes was all that separated the Charter High campus from the last presidential debate of 2012 between current president Barack Obama and former Massachusetts governor Mitt Romney. For several members of our newspaper staff that were lucky enough to be invited to Lynn’s “Red, White & View” debate watch party, a ten minute walk would have landed our communications team right on the front steps of the debate hall.

How big was the event? The university spent $5 million to plan, coordinate, and host it. About 70 total miles of cable was needed to broadcast it, enough distance to

PHOTO BY: CHRISTOPHER FERNANDEZ

go to Miami and back. The cable was one of the many technologic tools utilized by the more than 3500 journalists that were on campus. For the Commission of Presidential Debates to choose Lynn as the ultimate destination, school officials and the community promised that there would be more than 3000 available local hotel rooms. There were about 440 volunteers, many of them Lynn faculty and students.

The university provided busing for almost

24 hours over a span of five days. The exhaustive effort exerted by the Boca Raton, Broward County, and South Florida community in the making of the event gave young students an extraordinary oncein-a-lifetime opportunity, and gave more than 59 million viewers across the nation a chance to witness democracy in action.

Lynn University, this year in its 50th year of existence, is noted for its incredible percentage of enrolled international students.

It has a student body of 2100 students representing 81 different countries, and has the fourth highest percentage of international students among universities in the United States. The astonishing diversity on the Lynn campus was undoubtedly one of the reasons that it was picked to host the only 2012 presidential debate focused on foreign policy. On the trip, the CHAT staff was fortunate enough to talk to several international students who contributed to the event.

“This is a great opportunity for the school to be recognized at a world level,” said Lynn student and international affairs major Luis Simo, who is from Spain. “The fact that this is 15 days prior to the election makes it very exciting. It really speaks to all the different cultures and nationalities on campus.”

Shortly before the debate began, Lynn president Dr. Kevin M. Ross addressed the university body and viewers watching C-SPAN. “There are viewing parties going on all over the community tonight, and there are thousands of students, faculty, and staff at our own watch party, Red, White & View,” said Dr. Ross. “Since we were selected to host this event,” he went on, “we have been repeatedly been asked one question: ‘Who are you?’”

The comment drew laughs from much of the Lynn family, who were virtually unknown on the national stage up to that point. Many students and faculty members at the watch party wore the custom made shirts that read on the front: “We’ve never

heard of you either.”

After all the news coverage, campus tours, and food truck sales, it was finally time for the candidates to discuss the issues with moderator Bob Schieffer. The media consensus was that the president won, but the victory was not overwhelming, as both candidates performed well. The two men traded barbs and zingers several times, with Mitt Romney largely refraining from

dent Barack Obama, FOX News host Bill O’Reilly, Senator Rick Santorum, actor Chuck Norris, former Speaker of the House Newt Gingrich, Senator John Cornyn, and former Senator Joe Carraro have all called this election “the most important election of our lifetime.” The stakes are tremendous, and the contrast between the candidates is staggering.

The debate at Lynn on Monday was the

Red White & View: CHC Staff, Troy Bottom and David Nabors were given the opportunity to watch the debate at Lynn University at a viewing party just outside the room. Photo Donated By David Nabors

attacking the president’s record and Barack Obama constantly going on the offensive.

The president flatly told the former governor that he is “all over the map” when it comes to the issues, while Governor Romney responded, “Attacking me is not an agenda.” The debate got feisty at times, as was expected with the candidates’ sharply contrasting visions and the race seemingly tightening each day in key swing states.

The implications of the November 6th election could not be any greater. Presi-

last chance for the American people to see the two candidates discuss the issues face-to-face before the election. A vital decision and the future of the country now rests in the hands of American voters, and this year, the road to the White House runs through Lynn University in Boca Raton, forty-five short minutes off the Pines Charter campus.

Felix Baumgartner: the ‘space jump’ questions answered Joshua Alleman MANAGING EDITOR-LAYOUT

The famous man, Felix Baumgartner, who broke the speed of sound barrier and jumped from the edge of space, survived this amazing feat unscathed. This historic skydive from twenty four miles above the surface was completed on the 65th anniversary of the first man to break the sound barrier. Baumgartner jumped on the exact same day as Brigadier General Chuck Yeager, the first man to break the sound barrier on October 14th. This mission was a complete success and an amazing moment in time. After this task was completed, many questions were raised by the public: why didn’t he die when he broke the speed barrier, what happened to the balloon that brought him in the air, and what kind of suit was he wearing?

As soon as Baumgartner leapt from his capsule and landed safely on the ground after about four minutes and twenty seconds of free-fall, the capsule that brought him to the edge of the earth was tended to. The team working with Baumgartner detached the capsule from the balloon and deployed its parachute so it could fall safely back to Earth where it was recovered by a truck.

The capsule can be used again in the future, but the balloon was popped and cannot be used again. The sky-jump daredevil says that he didn’t feel all that much as he was falling at 834 miles per hour due to the insulated suit buffering him from the outside world.

The suit worn during this dangerous adventure was not a space suit like astronauts use; it was specially designed just for him and it was described by his team as “his personal life support system,” according to guardian.co.uk. The suit was modeled after high-altitude pilot’s suits; it had four layers of Gore-Tex and heat and flame resistant Nomex with the internal layer being a comfort liner. There was also a gas membrane that helped to retain the air pressure in the suit and a restraint layer to keep the suit’s shape; the outer layer was resistant to fire and extreme temperatures and it was made out of Nomex.

“I was really impressed when I watched the space jump,” said junior Omar Noble. “ I have always been interested in space and I just found it amazing how someone could jump from so high and land safely back on Earth.”

What are some of the dangers and challenges Baumgartner may have faced?

There are a lot of things that could have gone wrong and a lot of guessing what would happen. Some of the things that his team was concerned with are ultraviolet radiation, landing impact, oxygen starvation, wind shear, extreme temperatures, decompression sickness, entering a flat spin during ascension, a fire aboard the capsule, a breach in the suit or capsule, and accidental deployment of the parachute. Any of these problems would have been catastrophic and would have most likely destroyed the mission as a whole.

“When I thought about all of the dangers faced, I was amazed at how nothing went wrong and how he survived. I watched the whole event unfold and saw him leap from his capsule in shock; I was nervous for him and gave a sigh of relief as he touched down on the ground,” said junior Hope McNally. “There were so many things that could have gone wrong and he was really lucky that he had such a great team and everything was a success.”

Felix Baumgartner didn’t float away into space because even though he is so far away from the Earth’s surface, gravity is still in effect. This is evident in the fact that the moon is still drawn to the Earth and rotates around it due to gravity even though it is 238,857 miles away from Earth. This will be Baumgartner’s last daredevil stunt as he is planning to retire from such drastic jumps and wants to be a helicopter pilot, fighting fires, and rescuing people.

GRAPHIC BY: NICK LEE YEE

5 Legalizing marriage isn’t same game Chelsi Chang & Chelsie Ramos STAFF WRITERS

It could be another momentous win for the Lesbian Gay Bisexual Community. It seems like more states are leaning towards the legalization of gay marriage and recognizing them as an actual married couple.

This Election Day, November 6, will surely be one to put in the books for the nation and the LGBT community because the states of Maryland, Maine, Washington, and Minnesota will give their citizens a chance to vote on the legality of same-sex marriage by popular vote (lifesitenews.com).

For years, people have fought back and forth on this issue and whether or not to pass it in their state. Though the fight has continued on, six states have already passed laws that allow same-sex marriage, but not with the popular vote. However this Election Day in Maryland, Maine, and Washington the right for same sex couples being able to marry will be in the hands of the citizens. “It would be like abolishing slavery, some people won’t like it, but will have to learn to live with it,” comments junior Andre Blackman.

It has been looking positive for the LBGT community because polls in Maryland so far have shown that the citizens are in favor of keeping the same-sex marriage law that has been passed. According to the Washington Post- 52% of the people are in favor of the law, while 43% still oppose the law. But Maryland isn’t the only state that might be leaning toward the approval of the issue; Maine and Washington are also on the same boat. In Maine, three years ago, the people voted against same-sex marriage. However, now with a new generation heading to the ballot box, the idea of same-sex marriage has a new horizon.

“Love shouldn’t be based on a man and woman it should be based on your feelings for one another,” adds junior Justin Martinez.

According to Boston.com, the polls of the people in Maine have been 55% pro samesex marriage, 39% opposed the topic, and 4.5% that are undecided. This is similar

to the polls of Washington, which have put pro same-sex marriage voters in the lead.

The ratification of the law has been taken to the polls in the state and is showing 54% of likely voters favoring it, while 38% are opposing.

“I ‘m okay with [same-sex marriage], it’s not my business, especially if it’s what

yes in the polls might instead lean onto the opposing side come Election Day. This isn’t the first state to come out with this ground-breaking news: according to The New York Times, earlier this year Washington State and Maryland both approved same-sex marriage laws but none will take effect until sometime next year. In

CARTOON BY: EMILY SEMANDER

makes them happy,” said sophomore Erika Gonzalez.

With all polls and test, the data isn’t always reliable. According to Oregonlive. com, 48% of the people, in the polls for Washington, said that they were certain that they were pro same-sex marriage.

This shows that 8% of the people that said

other news, North Carolina voted against same-sex marriage earlier this year to ban same sex marriage and became a part of the 29 other states that have prohibited same sex marriage.

This continues to be a taboo topic for most, but not for President Obama who has declared that he is supportive of this issue.

News October 2012

His opponent, Governor Mitt Romney, favors an amendment to abolish it in the constitution. This would deny LGBT in New York, Connecticut, Iowa, New Hampshire, Vermont, and Washington D.C. the right that has been given to them by their state to get married. “I’m completely against [same sex marriage] because of my beliefs,” said junior Kenny Felix. Senior Nico Souberville agreed with Kenny’s statement by saying, “I don’t think it’s right and I believe it shouldn’t be allowed. It’s just my personal beliefs.”

Along with talking about the popular vote in Maryland, people are looking back at what happened in 2008, with Proposition 8 in California as a guideline. Proposition 8 was a decision made to outlaw samesex marriage, which was opposite what the Supreme Court had ruled legal earlier than year. However, on February 7, 2012, the court ruled it unconstitutional to discriminate against a certain group. Californians took to the streets, protesting what they saw as unfair; gay and straight alike.

“It was up to the point where Prop 8 became an international social issue, where Canada and Mexico were talking about it and showing their support. Prop 8 became a symbol for the fairness to everyone in the country and they wouldn’t repeat the same mistake twice,” said senior Joshua Martinez.

Others states have gone as far as to create a law where it doesn’t matter if you got married in another state where it’s legal, or even another country- they would not recognize your marriage. This would mean one homosexual couple could not receive benefits that heterosexual couples can receive, such as tax benefits and protection from discrimination.

It is obvious that homosexual marriage will still be a topic for debate for many years to come; some believe we are moving towards equality and others believe we are moving backward. Whatever opinion you hold, only time will tell how homosexual marriage will be viewed.

PPCHS alumni honored at FSU iPhone thefts on the rise Haley Coolidge STAFF WRITER

After graduating from PPCHS, alumni that currently attend Florida State University have been honored at their new school.

Every year, the Office of the Vice President for Student Affairs selects certain people to attend a day-long retreat with faculty and staff. Out of the 45,000 student body, 10-15 students, 10-15 faculty, and 10-15 staff members are chosen to attend. Students are nominated by faculty and staff PPCHS Alumni: Rafael Batista (‘10), Justin Spears (‘11) and Adrian at Florida State University. Romero (‘11) attend FSU. GRAPHIC BY: JOSHUA ALLEMAN Due to such few people being nominated to attend this retreat, it becomes a great honor to be select- represent the students of FSU and we are ed. For this year’s retreat, PPCHS alumni grateful to also have been a representation Adrian Romero (’11), Justin Spears (’11) of the Pembroke Pines Charter Schools sysand Rafael Batista (’10) were among the tem,” stated Rafael Batista (’10). students selected by the Vice President of The topic for this year’s retreat was “FSU Student Affairs. They are all members of Engagement: A Story Worth Telling.” The the Beta Eta Chapter of Phi Kappa Phi Fra- overall goal of the retreat was to lay the ternity at FSU. Not only did these students foundation for FSU’s first symposium on make a difference at Pines Charter by be- student engagement. This means that all ing involved in many clubs, class president selected students, faculty, and staff selected and members of NHS, they are beginning to participate in this retreat gathered to disto make a change at FSU as well. cuss student engagement at FSU and ways Romero, Spears, and Batista were greatly to improve student engagement overall. involved in the many things that PPCHS “I think it’s great that Charter alumni have had to offer and their involvement didn’t been making a difference at the collegiate stop there. They continued on to FSU level. It puts a good name out for Charter where they have become heavily involved students and shows how students who imin school activities. Some of which include pacted charter can then impact another inspots on the Student Affairs Committee of stitution such as Florida State University,” the Student Senate and being Vice Presi- stated FSU hopeful junior Nicole Batista. dent of Public Relations for the InterFater- nity Council.

“It was an honor to have been selected to

Gabriela Garcia STAFF WRITER

phone, it will benefit you in the long run.

A passcode can momentarily stall a thief In today’s time and age, it’s easy to say from wanting to break into your phone and use it for their cruthat our lives rely el advantage. heavily on elec• I.D. your tronics. UnforiPhoneKeep tunately, someyour phone’s times we don’t ESN, IMEI or notice this until MEID number on our precious little file. These codes toys are snatched can be found beright from our hind your phone’s hands. All over battery or, for exthe United ample, on the back States, the thefts of your iPhone. of smartphones You’d be surhave become not prised how handy only a very comyour phone’s mon unfortunate identification is event, but also when reporting a a frequent past theft to the police time for those or your cellphone hungry for cash. carrier.

Junior Franc• Install a stalkesca Levy could er- Many companever imagine nies and devices her life withhave new remote out her beloved security apps Apple device.

“I’ve been a iPhone thefts: Freshman, Jake Bottom, keeps hs iphone in available for their back pocket, leaving him more vulnerable to freshman users. Programs proud owner of his Kellen Wills, who is attempting to steal it. Photo By: JP similar to “Find an iPhone since Dussan My iPhone” for the eighth grade.

Ever since then, everything changed,” she the iPhone offer useful options such as claims. “I recently bought the new iPhone real-time location tracking and the ability 5, and I’m in love with it. I can firmly say to remote wipe your phone in case of an my whole life is on that screen, I don’t emergency. Make sure to install and set up these programs as soon as you can. know what I’d do without it.”

Freshman Jake Bottom was a victim first To help avoid this sticky situation, The Huffington Post gives tips to help make hand. “Earlier this year, my iPhone was sure your smartphone stays in your hands. stolen out of the blue,” says Bottom, “It • Put a lock on it- Thought it may was a terrible experience and feeling; I’d seem like such a hassle to type in a four- never wish it upon anyone.” digit code every time you want to use your

Features October 2012

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Angelique Berkowitz ENTERTAINMENT EDITOR

“Change will not come if we wait for some other person or some other time. We are the ones we’ve been waiting for. We are the change that we seek.” – President Barack Obama Wise words from the leader of the United States of America were prevalent throughout his 2008 campaign for President of the free country. Barack Obama is a man of age who had the goal to become President and promote change throughout the nation. He is a man of knowledge, a man of morality and a man of eloquence. The common phrase for his previous campaign was the message to encourage “Change” in our growing country. Upon the entrance of his first term into office, Obama inherited a country in complete turmoil. The economy was suffering severely, jobs were being lost, and lives were being taken as a result of war in foreign countries. As leader of the free country, Obama had a massive amount of work residing on his shoulders and was eventually labeled as the man with the responsibility to fix the tragic state of the nation.

Within a short time period of four years, Obama has accomplished several goals meant for achievement throughout his first term. Now, as a Presidential candidate for the election of 2012, Obama wants another four years to accomplish all the tasks that he has set out to complete in order to continue to fix the ever-growing nation.

I strongly believe that Obama, as a President, accomplished a great deal throughout his first term. As a unified nation we should embrace Obama and the changes that he made possible. Four years is a limited period of time to fix a disastrous country; a feat that Obama tackled quite well. I believe we should reelect Obama with the hopes of him being able to fix many other problems he wanted to tackle if elected for a second term. Obama took a chance on the American people and now it’s time for us to take a chance on him; it’s time for us to move forward.

One of the most prominent issues plaguing the United States is the need for the re-

It’s time for America to move FORWARD pairing of our struggling economy. Before President Obama took office, the economy was losing 800,000 jobs a month. Now, we’ve seen 31 consecutive months of job growth and 5.2 million new private sector jobs (barackobama.com). In response to Obama’s economic stance, Romney opposed the Recovery Act, opposed the auto industry rescue, and said that we should let the housing market “hit the bottom.”

Within Obama’s first presidential term, the U.S. auto industry was greatly suffering. In response to the cause, Obama refused to let the American auto industry die and took a chance on the Americans in return. As a result, more than 1 million jobs were saved, the U.S. auto industry is roaring back and adding jobs and all government loans were paid back ahead of time (barackobama. com).

In addition to the process of providing a growth in jobs, Obama has a plan to eliminate tax breaks for companies that ship jobs overseas, and create incentives for businesses to bring jobs back to America.

From the opposing view, Romney has no plan to get rid of tax breaks for companies that ship jobs overseas, and wants to eliminate taxes on American companies’ foreign profits, which would actually encourage more outsourcing (CNN.com). As a result of Romney’s plan to outsource, more jobs would be created in the countries that are being outsourced to rather than our very own country. This in turn, I believe, will affect our nation in a negative way. Our country’s state would not change if we continue to provide jobs for those in other countries rather than for those in our own country struggling for work.

Another issue amongst the nation is the issue of taxes and the national budget. President Obama has cut taxes for every working American, saving the typical middle-class family $3,600 in taxes over his first term.

In opposition to Obama, Romney would have to raise taxes on middle-class families in order to pay for tax cuts for millionaires, costing the typical American family with kids $2,000 more each year (presidentialcandidate.org). In reference to the stance of candidate Obama, no upper-class household should pay a smaller share of their income in taxes than a middle-class family pays who earns a manageable income enough only to provide for a small family. Romney wants to preserve loopholes that allow millionaires such as himself to pay a lower tax rate than working families (barackobama.com).

The president’s budgets includes investments in education, manufacturing, and infrastructure, while bringing unrestricted spending to its lowest level as a share of the economy in more than 50 years. Romney simply would slash investiments in the middle class while providing one of the largest tax cuts in history to the wealthy (CNN.com). President Obama has put forward a specific, balanced plan of spending cuts and revenue increases that reduce the deficit by more than $4 trillion over the

next decade, including $1 trillion in spending cuts he signed into law last summer as part of a deal with congressional Republicans (barackobama.com).

Another debatable topic within the 2012 Presidential election is healthcare. The Affordable Care Act is helping people with Medicare save on the care they need to stay healthy. This act ensures free preventative services to lower costs on prescription drugs and monthly premiums. Obamacare is making health care work better for all of the nation’s citizens even if they already have insurance. It puts the health of your family first—ensuring access to free preventive care and protecting consumers from insurance company abuses (barackobama.com). Mitt Romney has promised to repeal all the benefits of Obamacare on “Day One” if he’s elected president and would end guaranteed benefits and turn Medicare into a voucher program, which could cost seniors more than $6000 more each year.

Perhaps one of the most talked about topics within this election is education. Several students are taking a stance against the policies of Romney and his cuts in education. By doubling funding for Pell Grants and establishing a college tax credit, President Obama is putting higher education within reach for millions more Americans.

However, Romney’s plan to cut middleclass investments could slash Pell Grants for nearly 9.6 million students, and he would eliminate the President’s college tax credit. His suggestion to students worried about paying for college is to “shop around” and “barrow money from your parents.” (presidential-candidates.org) As a senior in high school and about seven months away from the completion of my high school career, I’m personally concerned with the candidate’s education policies. As a soon to be college student my biggest concern is finding a way to pay for college, much to which is true among several soon to be graduates. I favor Obama’s plan regarding education because it is one that will be most beneficial to me. If Obama is reelected, I will feel comfortable knowing that I will always have the opportunity towards an education. I’ll be able to look at the bigger picture- achieving goals in my life- rather than being concerned with the burden of leaving my parents to pay for my college tuition.

President Obama is in support of providing jobs to thousands of educators by hiring more teachers and keeping the best ones in the classrooms. Romney opposes the efforts to reduce class sizes, and says that we should “cut back” on teachers.

President Obama is also investing in community colleges to provide education and career-training programs, ensuring that everyone who works hard has the opportunity to get ahead (presidential-candidates.org).

On the opposite side, Romney, in his first year as governor, cut funding for community colleges in Massachusetts by 17%. As a result, by 2006 tuition in Massachusetts

was 59% higher than the national average.

With Romney’s plans in action, several students attending college will have their lives changed as they have to find new ways to pay for college and compete with others to attend top colleges.

Another issue that hits home for me, and the more prominent female gender, is the equal pay of women and men. President Obama signed the Lilly Ledbetter Fair Pay Act to help women fight back against pay discrimination while Romney refused to give his word on whether or not he would’ve signed the Act and his running mate, Paul Ryan, voted against it. It is clear that the representatives of the Republican Party have no sense of equality.

Regardless of gender, one should receive an equal amount of pay for the same job whether it’s a female performing the work or a male. With a world that is beginning to experience its share of dominant female figures, it is only right that equality be established in pay. Obama is the understanding candidate who feels that equality should be granted immediately rather than fought over. With Obama in office, women are positively seen as nothing less besides equals within society.

Foreign policy is a main issue as well that plays a major role in the campaigns of both Presidential candidates. As President, Obama has kept his promise to end the war in Iraq and bring our troops home. He is drawing down our troops in Afghanistan as we transition security responsibility to the Afghan people, and is on track to responsibly end the war there in 2014 (findthedata. org). He made the decision to order a raid on Osama bin Laden’s compound in Pakistan and eventually killed the man who was responsible for the 9/11 attacks. With opposing views, Romney has no intention to withdraw the troops from Afghanistan.

He calls the decision to bring our troops home from Iraq “tragic.” (barackobama. com) However, what is tragic is the fact that several innocent civilians lose their lives as a result of war in a matter that isn’t truly necessary.

Overall, it is clear that both candidates have opposing views on the situations threatening our country. However, Obama is the candidate that is more willing to serve those people in need. If you were to really think about it and put our country population into perspective, our nation is comprised of mostly a middle class that needs assistance. Obama is the candidate that will provide the assistance by creating more jobs, giving equal opportunities for those who are unable to afford college and providing tax breaks to the middle class who attempts to get by with their minimal earnings. Obama is the only candidate that wants to create jobs in our country rather than outsource to others in regards to Romney’s stance. Obama is the only candidate who truly deserves more time to improve upon the growing nation and lead us into prosperous periods. Obama is the only candidate who can truly move us FORWARD.

Politics and Families: United or Divided Anthony Kelleher STAFF WRITER

As the 2012 elections are coming up, students at PPCHS and parents alike are going to be voting for our next President of the United States. The two candidates for President are Democrat, and current President, Barack Obama and Republican Governor Mitt Romney. The decision of who to vote for can be difficult for the undecided.

For most students, families and teachers alike can have an influence on those who will be casting their vote for the first time.

Parents especially play an important part with political socialization, which is the process by which people acquire their political attitudes.

A study done at Tufts University showed that family members typically have the greatest impact on how people think and act on many subjects including politics. In some families however, the

first-time voter may have a completely opposite political view from their parents.

This may cause ongoing, and hopefully friendly, debates. Junior Sean Teng says, “I don’t agree with my parents on politics.

I believe in having my own opinion. Just because they are my family does not mean I should follow their beliefs. I believe people should look up information about each side and make the decision yourself and not your family.”

For young voters sometimes it is not the issues that guide choices at the polls. It is Mom and Dad, according to GazetteXtra, a local Wisconsin newspaper. Junior Dominique Brito says, “I have parents that have different political beliefs, so I have seen both sides. I tend to believe in what my dad says because I think his points are more valid. I have seen the debates also and it makes more sense to me”. Some families choose their political party on a faith-based

decision, focusing on the candidates’ personal stance on abortion, death penalty and gay rights. “I have the same political beliefs as my parents because of faith and values. Also, the points my parents make are rational and understandable,” says senior Gail Fletcher.

Research at Tufts University has shown that by the end of the high school years there is a high point of agreement between parents and their children with regards to political affiliation. Although classrooms should remain a neutral zone, schools also play an important role in political socialization. Many believe that teachers should not influence their students on how to vote but instead assist in bringing them the facts on each political candidate without bias or judgment so that students are able to make an informed decision. During college years, especially if the student is living away from home, students are subject

more to influence from their peers, the media, and current events. Before the age of 30, most people have made a firm commitment towards their political attitudes. Although there are always many undecided voters at every presidential election, it is up to the individual candidate to sway the voter towards their political party.

Family life and upbringing plays an important role in political socialization. Whether religious beliefs, moral upbringing or personal opinion guide voter’s political preference, voting is a right and privilege that every American should exercise. Republican, Democrat, or undecided, take a stance by viewing both sides and make your own choice. Senior Alexandra Restrepo says, “I have my own political beliefs because my parents have two different ones so I chose the one that I believe will be better for me and this country.”

Romney: A Leader for the Hundred Percent David Nabors SPORTS EDITOR

Not too long ago, Republican presidential nominee Mitt Romney came under fire from the mainstream press and the Democrats when some comments that he made at a fund raiser in Florida surfaced. His exact words were: “And I mean the president starts out with 48, 49 percent … he starts off with a huge number. These are people who pay no income tax. Forty-seven percent of Americans pay no income tax. So our message of low taxes doesn’t connect. So he’ll be out there talking about tax cuts for the rich.

I mean, that’s what they sell every four years. And so my job is not to worry about those people. I’ll never convince them that they should take personal responsibility and care for their lives.”

Governor Romney did not apologize for the statements but he did acknowledge that “it was not elegantly stated,” and later conceded that “it was completely wrong”. The Obama campaign pounced on this and accused the former Massachusetts governor of writing off nearly half the nation. Mitt Romney has and will continue to be asked questions about the remarks and you can expect his opponents to continue to try to attack him for the remainder of the election season.

The governor misspoke. He would surely have made his point in a different way today if he had the chance to change it. There is plenty of truth in his comments: according to the Tax Policy Center, 47 percent of Americans pay nothing in federal income tax. Mr. Romney’s mistake was that not

all of these people will vote for President Obama; in fact, many of them are elderly people and military personnel, who are part of Mitt Romney’s most solid base.

In the aftermath of this video surfacing, the tone of the campaigns seemed to shift.

The race, for a short time, became about the 47 percent of people who don’t pay tax to Washington based on income. The issue will surely come up again here and there, but this rhetoric was short-lived, and for good reason: nobody cares.

The choice in the presidential election this year is not about the 47%; it never was and it never will be. It’s about the 100 percent.

Over Obama’s first term, just about 100 percent of Americans have not had the success and opportunities that they deserve.

Governor Romney’s plan of substantial middle class tax relief, abolition of burdensome regulatory policies of the current administration, and the deliverance of energy independence for a nation that desperately needs it will give a limping economy the boost it needs to make America strong again. The man is not perfect, but he’s got a track record that our president lacks: from his time at Bain Capital, his time as the head of the 2002 Winter Olympics, and his term as the governor of Massachusetts, he has made a name for himself by turning things around for the better. Many of the 47 percent of Americans he was referring to will look past his mistake and understand that his life and experience qualifies him to lead the most powerful nation in the world, and the 100 percent of the people who inhabit it.

This election is about the 100 percent of Americans who depend on the federal government’s foreign policy decisions for their very own freedom and security. Iran, led

by President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad- a man who, when he stepped onto U.S. soil, said that he wants to wipe America’s ally, Israel, off the face of the earth- has called America a “bully” and has said that 9/11 was a conspiracy facilitated by the American government- is just months away from obtaining nuclear capability. The Obama Administration’s response has remained unchanged and inconsequential for the last four years. Their plan? To ignore the Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s pleas for help and “to bring Iran to a good faith negotiation,” to quote Secretary of State, Hillary Clinton, exactly. Barack Obama’s plan to “lead from behind” in the Middle East and embark on an apology tour for America’s previous actions abroad (Gardiner, 2009), was supposed to bring us to better relations with the Muslim world.

Yet, you can turn on the news every day

and see in plain color the vicious and vehement anti-U.S. demonstrations taking place in Egypt, Libya, and other Middle Eastern countries. Osama bin Laden is dead, but so is the U.S. ambassador to Libya and three other Americans, murdered in a terrorist attack on the U.S. consulate in Benghazi, Libya on the anniversary of September 11th, when the embassy should’ve taken measures to maximize security. The Obama administration’s first response to the killings was to apologize for and blame an amateur anti-Islam film trailer that they said sparked the attack instead of condemning the murderous actions that took the lives of fellow Americans. The president, U.S. ambassador to the United Nations, secretary of state, and White House press secretary then proceeded to bungle the situation, taking more than two weeks to concede that the attack was a pre-planned strike rather than a spontaneous assault in response to a movie. The war on terror is not over, the Middle East is not more stable, and Americans cannot feel safer than they were four years ago.

This election is about the 100 percent of people who depend on gasoline and the oil industry for transportation and are paying double what they were in 2008. President Obama has forbidden offshore drilling and rejected the Keystone pipeline, projects that have been deemed to pose low environmental risk and would not only create tens of thousands of jobs, but would also decrease American dependence on foreign entities for oil. Instead the federal government has blindly spent tens of billions of dollars trying to power a “green jobs” industry that has shown almost no gain, and the effort granted billions in subsidies to companies that later failed or filed for bankruptcy such as Solyndra ($500 million), Abound Solar ($400 million), A123 ($249 million), Beacon Power ($43 million), and Ecotality ($115 million) (Bell, 2011). It’s an election about the 100 percent of people who are adversely affected by a sputtering economy, people who thought they would be retiring soon but are working full time with no end in sight, people whose incomes have fallen steadily the last four years, people who are part of the 23 million of Americans out of work that would like to get a job so that they and their families can move on with their lives.

Small business startups are at a 30-year low, and the president has contributed to the drought by overregulating, overtaxing, and scolding business leaders for not believing as he does that it is the government, not individual initiative, that allowed their creations to thrive. The unemployment rate

First Time Voters at PPCHS Jacob Isenberg STAFF WRITER

Many before us have died fighting for this right, and its ideal is so sacred, it is written about in five Constitutional amendments and three acts. It is the foundation of our democratic system, and it’s an important way to voice opinions on issues facing the nation. It is the right to vote, and in this election, a few lucky students at PPCHS will be able to cast their vote to decide who will be the next president of the United States of America.

With voting, comes an enormous responsibility. The next president will directly have an impact on the next four years, and it is critical that voters make an educated and well thought-out decision. Voters must carefully evaluate the stances of each candidate to choose which one would lead our country in the right direction. The two candidates, President Obama and Governor Romney, have very different opinions on the economy, healthcare, and the role of government.

Students at PPCHS do not take the right to vote lightly. And, like most of the country, the responses students gave were greatly varied.

Senior Pablo Casilimas is very excited to

have a chance to vote as a senior in high school.

“This is an exclusive opportunity that not many other seniors have,” says Casilimas.

“The next president is going to decide the direction our country moves toward.”

Casilimas still considers himself an undecided voter. Like much of the country, he is not very impressed with Obama’s record, but is unsure as to whether to take a chance on a new president.

“I just need to hear more details,” says Casilimas. “I want to hear more clarifications about both candidates’ tax plans, and their opinions on immigration.”

Another senior, Colton McKinney, is fully behind Governor Romney.

“Obama had his chance, and he failed,” said McKinney. “The deficit is way too high, and we have a president now that spends out of control.”

McKinney has been behind Romney since he announced that he was running for president. He believes our country needs a new direction, and that Romney is the man to lead us out of this recession. Specifically, he likes Romney’s plan to repeal the Affordable Care Act, and his plan to lower

taxes for all Americans.

Senior Daniel Kalter has been waiting for opportunity to vote for years. He strongly supports President Obama, and has even been out in the community campaigning for him. Kalter has dedicated many Fridays and Saturdays volunteering--helping to register voters and talk to undecided voters to try and convince them to vote for Obama.

“It would be catastrophic to take President Obama out of office now,” says Kalter. “He has done so much to get our economy back on track and reform healthcare, and he deserves another four years.”

The election has definitely created a buzz around campus, with everyone having a different opinion on who should be the next president and what issues need to be addressed. Those who can vote have the special and unique opportunity to help decide the future of our country, and this right to vote should be cherished.

First time voters: Senior Colton McKinney is happy to vote during this election and is supporting Governor Mitt Romney. Photo By Alex Monge

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Features October 2012

when the president took office in January of 2009 was 7.8%. Almost four years and trillions of dollars later, the unemployment rate remains at 7.8%, and if as many people were seeking jobs today as when the president took office, the rate would be nearly 11 percent. Economic growth has been slower this year than it was last year, and last year it was slower than the year before. Each month a new jobs report from the Bureau of Labor Statistics is released that shows the creation of jobs is barely, if even, keeping up with the rate of population growth.

And perhaps most notably, 2012’s election is about the 100 percent of people, including every teacher, student, and administrator at our high school, who will be paying interest on the national debt compiled under President Obama for the remainder of their lives. Under President Obama, the national debt has skyrocketed to more than $16 trillion. Four years ago, the President promised to cut the debt in half and called former President George W. Bush “irresponsible and unpatriotic” for presiding over a $4 trillion increase in the national debt during eight years. In less than half that time, America’s debt has risen by about $6 trillion under Obama.

The administration however, has proposed no plans to cut domestic spending. Each of the past four years, the federal government has spent more than $1 trillion more than it takes in, and the excess is paid for by borrowing or printing.

In his 2008 Democratic nomination acceptance speech Barack Obama said, “If you don’t have any fresh ideas, then you use stale tactics to scare voters. If you don’t have a record to run on, then you paint your opponent as someone people should run from. You make a big election about small things.” The core theme of his campaign that year was “hope and change”. In the midst of the jobs crisis and the debt crisis that the country faces now, the president’s campaign has based his 2012 bid for reelection on Mitt Romney’s misstated comments, Mitt Romney’s tax returns, and Mitt Romney’s proposal to defund Big Bird.

America’s election this year is about the 100 percent. It is about choosing a leader who will deal effectively and competently with the tough issues that our country faces and the predicaments that we’ve gotten ourselves into. There is no perfect candidate in any election, and Mitt Romney has made and will surely continue to make some mistakes. Our current president has had four years to prove he could lead effectively, and we have seen the results. It’s Mitt Romney’s turn.

Features

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Voting 101

Seniors: The Voice not Heard

Some people think that this is an election that will just decide the president. While the main vote of this election is for the presidency, there are many other races that are important for determining the future for our country. This year’s ballot will consist of multiple pages; some officials are calling it the longest ballot in history. So voters, be prepared to make a lot of decisions and do a lot of reading.

Voters will have a chance to vote on the U.S. Senate, Congress, state Legislature, county offices, judges, county referendums, and city referendums. There will also be eleven proposed changes to the Constitution, some of which will be hundreds of words. In total, the ballot is expected to be about ten pages long. Voters should not expect the voting process to be quick.

There are a few things that all voters, especially first time voters, need to Big Ballot: The Florida ballot for the 2012 elections is longer than other elections, if you are voting make sure you read through it first. Photo By: Alex Monge know.

• E l e c t i o n Day is on Tuesday, November 6th, and polls will be open from Voting should not be difficult as long 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.. as voters follow the few simple instruc• Early voting begins October 27th, tions listed and bring an ID and voter card and ends November 3rd. with them to the polls. It is a fundamen• You must bring a form of ID tal American right to be able to vote, and (Driver’s license, passport, ect.) and your voters should remember that is they decide voter information card to polls. the future of our country as they cast their • Your voting location is located on vote.

As school continues to consume our thoughts and schedules, the days begin to sneak away in their usual untraceable pattern. All the time we thought we had begins to shrink and scatter as the countdown comes closer and closer to reaching its final date: Election Day. 12 days…

11 days…

10 days…

I cannot describe to you the appearance of my voter’s registration card, nor can I explain to you the momentous feeling of importance experienced when casting ones ballot. I will not wear a red, white, and blue sticker that proudly states “My vote counted”, because my vote doesn’t count. On November 6th, my decision in this presidential election will be as fleeting as all the lost time each us of will never regain. I am one of the many unheard voices of seniors who have waited so long to vote but must wait for another 4 years to do so.

Every election in American history is important. Throughout our years of schooling we have learned about America’s numerous presidents and about what they did or did not do for the free country. Most of us remember the last election; for the seniors that can vote now, we were in eighth grade.

What we thought we knew then, we really know now after taking US History and Government classes.

Senior Taylor Mathews said, “It feels amazing having power in the election. I won’t be voting Election Day, but I will be doing early voting. As a senior going to college this election is really going to impact the next four years for me. I’m really happy I have this opportunity.”

October 2012

Jacob Isenberg STAFF WRITER

the back of your voter information card.

You cannot go to any other voting location.

• Voting during mid-morning or mid-afternoon will have the least wait time.

“I know there will be lines on Election Day, but that is when I want to vote,” said senior George Correa. “It’s about the experience of voting for the first time.”

Many PPCHS students feel the same way.

But some will be doing anything they can to avoid the lines.

“I haven’t decided if I’m going to send in an absentee ballot or vote during early voting,” said senior Alex Restrepo. “I don’t want to wait in a line for hours.”

Jordana Cutajar FEATURES EDITOR

Due to mandatory economics/government classes, seniors are really learning about the inner workings of the country. On this path to discovery many of us, who are now old enough to decide, begin to subscribe to a particular party. We’ve heard over and over again that in this election most people already know who they are going to vote for, and the candidates seem to be equally matched at the moment. In such a tight election every vote counts. Senior Marcus Thompson said, “I know a lot about the election, and I know who I would vote for if I could, but I’m not old enough yet. It does bother me, but not that much because I know I will eventually be able to vote in future elections.”

But for those of us who aren’t citizens yet, future voting isn’t a guarantee. Senior Francisco Gornes said, “I can’t vote in this election because I’m not a United States citizen. It makes me angry because I live here and am going to continue living here, so the election will affect me, but I can’t really do anything about it. Hopefully I’ll become a citizen in a few years.”

Unfortunately, not all of us can contribute to this election. But that doesn’t mean we won’t ever be able to cast our vote. We will become of age or become citizens, and then our vote will count. Until that day it is still pertinent that we stay well informed.

The election is important, and it does affect you even if you can’t vote yet!

Senior Brianna Bauman said, “I’m doing poll working and I still can’t vote because my birthday is in June. I’m trying my best to contribute, I’ve been canvassing and I’ve been training for poll working. I’m upset that I can’t vote, especially since I’m actually interested in this election, but I think it’s important to still be involved, which is what I am trying to do.”

PPCHS - National President Polls

Graphic By: William McKinley

Environmental October 2012

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Beef vs Leaf

What’s your beef with beef?

Troy Bottom NEWS EDITOR

cholesterol levels. This can lead to more serious complications such as increased From a simmering cheeseburger at a fam- risk of colorectal cancer and even lower ily barbeque filled with captivating spices bone mineral density. Vegetarians cling to to a Thanksgiving ham that glistens with a a fabricated myth of a “healthy” lifestyle, savory honey glaze placed over it, meat is which, as demonstrated above, is false. a staple in many Americans lives. Vegetar- “Many of the vegetarian claims cannot be ians choose their diet, stemming from ani- substantiated and some are simply false mal sympathy or the false impression that and dangerous. There are benefits to vegthe plant life is a healthier and more ben- etarian diets for certain health conditions, eficial diet to compliment the human body. and some people function better on less fat All of these examples are either completely and protein, but, as a practitioner who has false or far stretched manipulations of the dealt with several former vegetarians and truth. vegans (total vegetarians), I fully know of There has been evidence of carnivorous the dangerous effects of a diet that is deactivity from the earliest intelligent life on void of healthful animal products,” stated earth. The mention of juicy chicken has the late Stephen Byrnes, PhD, RNCP. watered mouths for ages and teased taste Another stressing issue is the inhumane buds. To put it bluntly, human beings, sci- actions that vegetarians claim meat eaters take. They say that the way animals are slaughtered and processed is unjust and not fair to the animals. Since the beginning of time, the food chain has consisted of the simple term: “survival of the fittest”. A species must do whatever necessary to sustain a healthy life, even if it comes at the cost of a chicken or cow.

Does a vegetarian chastise a tiger as it stalks a deer for its evening meal? No. In my belief, it is preposterMeat-Eaters: Many of the students at PPCHS choose to have a diet with ous for a vegetarian to take meat rather than a strict vegetarian diet. Photo By: JP Dussan his actions simply based on entifically analyzed, are animals: hunting, the fact that it’s harmful to animals. feasting, and meat-eating animals.

“I love meat. To me, there is nothing better The first point to discuss as to why people than a hot plate of meat loaf or a nice juicy should remain carnivorous is the risks of steak. I honestly don’t know how someone deleting valuable nutrients that meat offers could go without eating meat; it’s just so when one becomes a vegetarian. Eating good,” said sophomore Sebastian Cubillos. meat supplies so much more nutrients that Being a vegetarian has its perks; it lowers are absent in a vegetarian diet. Animal fat many diseases involving the heart and even is one essential in moderation to a healthy type II diabetes. According to www.mnn. person. Experimental scientist Anne Janine org , the absence of animal meat and prodstated that the abuse of eating too many ucts makes one 47% more likely to suffer vegetables may overwhelm the capacity illnesses that were earlier mentioned, such of one’s carbohydrate-digesting enzymes, as colorectal cancer and lower bone minleading to a backlog of food in their gut. eral density Too much of anything is not good for one “I have concern for wildlife and animals,” person, but the perfect amount leads to a stated sophomore Samuel Clausman, “But healthy body and state of mind. If one were if the sacrifice of an animal benefits my to cut out meat from their diet, they would health, of course I’m going to eat the way I be deleting necessities such as lower levels was born to eat: eating meat.” of vitamin B12, insufficient levels of omega-3, fatty acids and could also cause low

Lettuce talk about Vegetarianism Melissa Sullivan STAFF WRITER

When thinking of meat, the first thing that comes to mind is a juicy, grease filled burger with cheese dripping down the sides, but in reality that meat is an animal with a heart, just like you and me. Some of these animals are forced into cramped spaces, beaten and left to die only to have ketchup and lettuce topped over them, all for the cost of less than a dollar. By being a vegetarian, I am taking into consideration not only myself and my health, but the wellbeing of animals and the environment, just as 7.3 million other Americans do.

The factory farming system that the world has is completely unjust toward animals; innocent creatures are being treated inhumanely across the world. The system that was put in place has no care for the way in which the animals are treated. The carelessness of humans is prejudiced to animals and is giving these defenseless creatures an ultimatum of death, in which they have no say. In meat producing factories across the world, animals are packed into tiny spaces with hundreds of other starving and dying animals. These small spaces are uncomfortable, painful, and sometimes fatal to animals such as chickens, pigs, and cows.

Although workers are required to provide animals with an anesthetic to prevent pain, it often doesn’t work and animals are left to die in a torturous, inhumane way. The best way to save all of these innocent animals is by living a vegetarian lifestyle. Becoming a vegetarian can save up to 100 animals in one year and provides a much better and humane life not only for them but for you too.

It is proven that vegetarians live six to ten years longer than the average meat eater.

Studies show that children and teens on a plant based diet have higher IQ’s than their meat-eating counterparts. They also grow taller and have reduced rates of obesity and diabetes, thus disproving the stereotype that following a primarily plant based diet at such a young age is harmful. Vegetarians also tend to have a lower average body mass than non-vegetarians. In addition, Scientists have found that vegetarians have stronger immune systems than most meat eaters. This is mostly because of the fact that animals’ diets are being tampered with; they are being fed chemicals and other substitutes that force them to grow at unnatural rates to supply manufacturers.

By consuming animal products, these harmful chemicals are entering meat eaters’ digestive systems and ultimately harming them in the long run.

If not for a moral or health reason, people Vegetarian style: Lauren Torres should be- chooses to eat a salad over a meal with come veg- meat. Photo By: Natalia Cevallos etarian because factories around the world strongly contribute to warmer global temperatures. The United Nations proved that the meat industry produces more greenhouse gases then all automobiles combined. An average American person that eats meat is responsible for 1.5 tons more carbon dioxide than a vegetarian. If every American skipped one meal of chicken per week and used a vegetarian substitute, it would reduce carbon dioxide levels. About 80% of farmland and water in the U.S. is used on animals. It takes 300 gallons of water per day to produce food for someone who is vegetarian but it takes more than 4,000 gallons of water per day to produce food for a carnivore. If more people became a vegetarian, the carbon footprint on the Earth would be reduced tremendously.

Even AP Lang teacher, Ms. Sunshine Phelps, has chosen a healthier lifestyle. “I chose to be a vegan about 25 years ago, for many reasons. If I have the ability to make a choice and feel less guilty about what I eat, then I believe that choice is right. I do not believe in dominion over animals and determining which animal is a pet and which is food. I also chose this diet because it lessens my carbon footprint. I am very aware that by doing this, it reduces the production of waste and pollution. The quality of food that I eat is healthier and overall, makes me feel better,” stated Phelps.

Vegetarianism is a way to living a better lifestyle. By becoming a vegetarian and removing meat from your diet, not only will it help your health but it will also be beneficial to the environment and other animals.

Global warming: Just how hot is it?

Jessica-Lynn Carvajal STAFF WRITER

There is always word going around in the media that global warming is progressing.

Reporters and writers say “go green” or “save the polar bears” but the reality of the situation is that global warming is exaggerated. According to the British government meteorological service, global warming has been at a halt for sixteen years. Surprisingly, from 1997 to August of 2012, there has been no rise or fall in the global temperature.

Ever since the British government meteorological service released this information, there has been uproar of debates all over the world. Some people believe that global warming is still present today, however others think that it has stopped and is just a hoax. Present or not, the debate over this situation is never ending. Scientists from universities such as Georgia Tech and University of East Anglia are still researching and analyzing the earth’s temperatures.

Judith Curry, chair of the School of Earth and Atmospheric Science at Georgia Tech states, “The new data confirms the existence of a pause in global warming.” They are continuing to study the temperatures of earth, in search of the real answer to the question: has global warming truly stopped?

“Global warming is not real, I believe in recycling and keeping our planet clean, but I do not think it is actually happening today,” says senior Samantha Portalatin.

According to the theweek.com and Daily Mail, a British tabloid, the usual gradual rise in the world’s temperatures has hit a “pause”. Global warming may still be occurring or may restart in the future, but for now, it has stopped.

This information does not mean that the public should stop recycling or stop participating in other activities to help better the planet. “I think global warming is a huge deal, real or not, and we need to try our best to take care of the planet,” says senior Desire Reyes. Earth is still in need of tender, love, and care and the Daily Mail chose to look into this new evidence during El Nino, a time when a warm ocean current flows along the equator from the date line and south off the coast of Ecuador. El Nino came right after La Nina, a climate pattern that occurs across the Pacific Ocean. Due to this, the weather and conditions in the Pacific Ocean led to changes in temperature possibly affecting the collection of data. So this information may be deceptive.

Theweek.com also claims that the 1990s were warmer than the 1980s, and the 2000s were warmer than previous time periods.

Details have been released that eight of the top ten warmest years have happened in the recent decade and global surface temperatures have risen to 0.8ºC. Global warming may have stopped, but records of temperatures are showing that the heat has still increasing over the years which still raises concern.

Cartoon By: Emily Semander

Charter’s workout playlist Victoria Alvarez ENVIRONMENTAL/HEALTH EDITOR

When working out, it’s always best to play some music to get you pumped and to keep you going. To help you with your workouts, here are ten songs that will bring your energy up, and keep it up, while working out.

1.Titanium – David Guetta feat. Sia 2.Promises – Nero 3.Gangnam Style – PSY 4.Blow Me One Last Kiss – P!nk 5.Neon Trees – Everybody talks 6.One More Night – Maroon 5 7.In My Mind (Axwell Remix) - Ivan Gough, Feenixpawl & Georgi Kay 8.Too Close – Alex Clare 9.Raise Your Weapon (Madeon Remix) – Deadmau5 10.Die Young – Ke$ha

Music Workout: Junior, Desmond Copeland listens to music as he exercises in the gym. Photo By: JP Dussan

Sports

October 2012

10

Cross Country’s Most Promising Athletes

Carlos Penaranda, Sophomore

Jessica Davis, Senior

Kali Hazera, Freshman

Andrew Iglesias, Junior

Sophomore Carlos Penaranda, member of the cross country team, is one of the most recognized athletes PPCHS has to offer.

Although Carlos is a promising athlete, he hasn’t been participating in cross country for long. He has already placed 1st in several meets and is running the fastest times this season for the team.

“I have only been doing this for 10 months. I’m like the new kid in a way,” Carlos stated.

There are several different events and Carlos’ event is the 5k. “It gets pretty tiring out there,” he said. “But what motivates me is the will to win and crush my opponents.”

Many athletes have pre-game rituals or something to get them fired up a little; however, Carlos just gets mentally ready.

“I don’t really listen to music before my races. I just get mentally prepared.”

It is always important to eat right before going out there on the track or the course and that’s exactly what Carlos does. “I usually have an orange or a PB&J sandwich and it fuels me perfectly before I compete.”

His major goal right now is to just help out his team in the best way he can. Carlos surely is a promising athlete and the Pines Charter cross country team is fortunate to have him running for them.

This is senior runner Jessica Davis’s fourth and final year as a member of the cross country team, and she is looking to end her high school career on a positive note. Known to hold herself to high standards and be self-critical, she has downplayed her fastest time of 22:48.

“I haven’t done as well as I wanted,” she conceded. “But I’m looking ahead to finish strong going into the end of the season.”

She and fellow Jaguar Kali Hazera have consistently placed in the front in the meets this year. After placing 8th in a recent districts meet, she is qualified and will be competiting in the regionals. Davis, the seasoned veteran, and Hazera, the freshman, are both hoping to peak at just the right time. Individually, Davis is looking to do well in regionals and maybe even qualify for states. She wants to finish off the season with a season best and top of her four year high school running career with success.

“I really want to finish my season strong and have a good track season so that I can walk on the team at FAU,” said Davis.

Kali Hazera has exploded on to the scene and has emerged as one of county’s and PPCHS top cross country runners. As only a freshman, Hazera has impressed students and coaches alike with her speed and endurance.

“Some people underestimate me, because I’m a freshman. But I use this to my advantage,” said Hazera. “I have the ability to surprise my opponents.”

Hazera’s fastest time in a 5K is 21:12 when she placed 3rd in the district meet and she has already won a county meet.

But Hazera still feels she has room to improve.

“I’m going to keep working hard, and hopefully continue to get faster. My goal is to run under 20 minutes by my sophomore year,” stated Hazera.

Kali has set high goals for herself, and continues to challenge herself in addition to her teammates. After qualifying for regionals she hopes to lead her team even further. She hopes of eventually going to states as a team. College is a long way off, but she can’t help thinking about how great it would be to receive a running scholarship. The future is definitely bright for this young and promising cross country runner.

He finished last season 5th in the state. He was also injured for the better part of this season. He is Andrew Iglesias, a junior and a key part to our cross-country team. Earlier this season he was out due to a stress fracture in his leg from increased mileage and excessive running; postponing his running for six weeks. But he didn’t stop training.

“I have been running in the pool to keep my cardio up,” says Andrew. Even during his injury he has spent time working on his form in the pool with different workouts that would reduce the strain on his leg.

Andrew started running when he was just ten years old. He used to play optimist football and started running on a treadmill with his dad. It was then that he found out he was very good at running. “I started training with Coach Hazera from 7th-8th grade summer, but I was running 5k’s on the road since I was in 4th grade,” says Iglesias.

Going into this season, Andrew had a lot of confidence after a stellar sophomore year that earned him the rank of 5th in the state. He wants to go to go to states individually and as a team in cross-country and track. As for right now, he’s looking to get healthy again. “I just started running on land,” says Andrew. “I won’t be running as well as the other guys, but I will participate. I am looking forward to track season.”

Can a Dolphin really win?

Troy Bottom

NEWS EDITOR

If one were to say at league in the hit the beginning of the television show season that the MiHard Knocks. The ami Dolphins were show displayed right in the middle the teams meetof AFC east compeings, practices tition, South Floridand philosophy ians would chuckle; behind Miami’s some may even wipe goals for the 2012 their drowsy eyes season. With the and think it was all show, fans got an a comical dream to in-depth look at amuse their unconthe coaches and scious self. But the players they cheer Dolphins have actufor every Sunally been looking day. The spotlight better than they have was on Miami, in previous years, and one man to and a shocked teal, take center stage orange, and white was rookie out of nation of fans have Texas A&M, Ryan Loyal Fans: Many students still have hope that the noticed.

Tannehill.

The olphins can make an impact on the season this year.

“I’m actually D 6’4, 24 year old Photo By: Alex Monge shocked on how we quarterback won started. I honestly expected the Dolphins the highly discussed three-way battle for to struggle with a new coach and new QB. the job, where he beat out veterans Matt I’m so proud that they have ringed out a Moore and David Garrard. Now he leads couple tough wins early this year,” junior his Dolphins with a 4-3 record. He started Flavio Hernandez stated. rough with many rookie mistakes. With a This offseason the Dolphins were exposed couple wins under his belt, he holds his as a true wide open book to the world and first back to back wins and has gained trust

from his coaches, teammates, and fan base.

Tannehill stands with a 59.1% completion rating, 1472 passing yards, and a total of 4 touchdowns. Another bright spot has been the regenerated rush attack spearheaded by the lethal Reggie Bush with 493 rushing yards. The team as a whole has also accounted for 6 rushing scores. Lastly, on offense the main concern was filling the void of receiving threats such as Chad Johnson and Brandon Marshall. That void was answered with play by Brian Hartline and the always consistent Anthony Fasano.

“I really like what the Dolphins have been able to accomplish in their first 7 games.

We have had an impenetrable run defense and Ryan Tannehill is looking poised and keeps improving each week. Coach Philbin has put the team in a position to win,” says

long time Dolphin fan, junior Nico Bastidas. “I really like the progress they have made from last season and training camp.

The future looks bright.”

The Dolphins are in a rebuilding phase, as indicated by the new faces, new coaches, and new mind set. Fans have been pleading for a change and it has certainly come.

The ‘Fins are now trying to establish depth and consistent play, which is needed in a division with the New York Jets and New England Patriots, as they look to fight back to being a playoff force. With a quarterback committed to being the first great one since Marino in Miami and a team ready for playoff contention, the Dolphins might be on the right path- and ready to leave the competition sleeping with the fishes.

PPCHS Golf Spotlight: Nicholas Sacramento Jacob Isenberg and Brett Alayon STAFF WRITERS

Following in the footsteps of his two older sisters, freshman and golf captain Nicholas Sacramento has already made a name for himself as an athlete here at Charter. Recently, Sacramento was the only player on the golf team to make regionals. He was one of the only freshmen to make it, and played almost exclusively against upperclassmen.

“I was the smallest one there by far,” said Sacramento. “Those guys were really good, and I was honored just to be able to play with them.”

Throughout the season, Sacramento has been very impressive, placing in many tournaments around the area. His coach, Mr. Lavoro, has been pleasantly surprised

with his production.

“I did not know what to expect from Nick during his first year. Nick has progressed so much during the season, and I am excited for what he will be able to accomplish in the next few years,” said Mr. Lavoro.

Sacramento describes himself as someone who truly loves golf. He has been playing since the beginning of seventh grade and uses Tiger Woods as inspiration. His favorite part about playing is driving and putting the ball, although he admits that he needs to improve on his putting. There are many parts of Sacramento’s game that he says he will be working on before the start of next season.

His goals are to win two state championships in the singles category, and make it to states in the team category. Sacramento

11

Sports October 2012

wants to continue to be a good teammate, and help all of the golfers around him to get better. Although it’s a long time off, Sacramento has aspirations of getting a golf scholarship to Texas. With his work ethic and talent, this does not seem so unlikely.

Become a Champion: Nick Sacramento is a caption of the golf team and the only one to make it to regionals.

Photo By: J.P. Dussan

After nine weeks of college football…

Jake Dreilinger STAFF WRITER

It has been nine weeks since the start of the college football season. For Florida colleges, it has been a good year. Here is a recap of the 2012/2013 college season: One of the biggest surprises in the BCS poll was the Florida Gators. Starting out the season ranked 23rd, the Gators went 7-1, beating a few ranked teams in the process. Their most noticeable wins were against the then ranked #4 LSU, which

they beat 14-6, and the #7 South Carolina Gamecocks, which they won 44-11. Their only loss was against the now ranked #6 Georgia Bulldogs, 17-9. Sophomore quarterback Jeff Driskel has thrown for 1114 yards and eight touchdowns this year, while senior running back Mike Gillislee has rushed for 729 yards and seven touchdowns. The Gators still have a tough schedule ahead, having to face Missouri, Louisiana-Lafayette, Jacksonville State, and #12 Florida State. The Gators may have to face

Graphic By: Will McKinley

#1 ranked Alabama Crimson Tide in the SEC championship game if Georgia loses another conference game. Senior Danielle Paloor says, “Compared to the Gators last season, we are doing a lot better. After we lost Tebow, we haven’t been the same for a few years, but now we are back.”

Another Florida team who has had a great season is the Florida State Seminoles. Having an undefeated season until their loss against unranked N.C. State, the Seminoles were predicted to go to the BCS Championship game. The Seminoles are currently 8-1 and ranked #9. They have a fairly easy schedule, and their toughest game would be against the Florida Gators, which is a home game and their last game of the season. Senior quarterback E.J. Manuel has thrown for an impressive 2315 yards and 16 touchdowns. Florida State’s rushing game is dominated by senior running back Chris Thompson, who has 687 yards rushing and 5 touchdowns. “They are playing good,” says sophomore Stefano Diogaurdi.

“So far we have had a strong season; we need to have bigger wins and a more challenging schedule.” Their last three games are against Virginia Tech, Maryland, and #7 ranked Florida.

Miami has had a rough year. The Hurricanes started out their season 4-1, beating Boston College, Bethune-Cookman, Georgia Tech, and North Carolina State. Recently, Miami want on a three game losing

streak, recently losing to the Florida State Seminoles 33-20. There current record is 4-4. An even record which can go either way for the Miami Hurricanes, with their next four games against Virginia Tech, Virginia, South Florida and Duke. Junior quarterback Stephan Morris has thrown for 2214 yards and 10 touchdowns. Freshman running back Duke Johnson leads Miami rushing with 455 yards and 5 touchdowns.

“I think this season’s been alright, but we need to improve,” says sophomore Nick Del Mazo. “We have a really young team and we will get better.

FAU has had a rough season; going 2-6 with their 7-3 win in the season opener against Wagner and a 34-27 win against Troy. FAU’s senior quarterback Graham Wilbert has thrown for 1570 yards and 12 touchdowns. Their final four games are against Navy, Western Kentucky, FIU, and Louisiana-Lafayette. FIU also had a rough season, going 1-8 with their 41-38 win against Akron. Sophomore quarterback Jake Medlock has thrown for 1710 yards and nine touchdowns. Their last three games are against South Alabama, Florida Atlantic, and Louisiana-Monroe. USF had a better season, going 2-6 with back-toback wins against Chattanooga and Nevada. Senior quarterback B.J. Daniels has thrown for 1876 yards and 14 touchdowns.

Their last four games are against Connecticut, Miami, Cincinnati, and Pittsburgh.

Pros falter in game of finance Brett Alayon STAFF WRITER

Many young athletes wonder what it would be like to get paid millions to play the sport they love. However, what they don’t realize is that the money can go away in a matter of seconds. ESPN, just a few weeks ago, had a documentary called “Broke” on a series called “30 for 30” that included multiple professionals that went bankrupt for any type of reason. Your favorite player in the NFL, NBA, MLB, or any other sport may end up like these guys.

It’s just a matter of how they deal with millions of dollars they receive after signing huge contracts. So many professional athletes have gone bankrupt over the years going from “living the life” to… not.

Lawrence Taylor, former linebacker in the NFL, had an amazing career including an MVP award. During his career, he used cocaine and was arrested three times for attempted drug possession following his retirement. Just one year ago, Taylor pleaded guilty to patronizing a prostitute and sexual misconduct. After serving six months of

probation, he ultimately lost $50 million.

Sophomore Matthew Rondon said, “This story is truly amazing. Lawrence Taylor went from being a star and role model on the field to a complete fool.”

Who can forget about Michael Vick? After sitting out the NFL and dealing with animal abuse for years, his career earnings went down the drain. Vick was once the highest paid player Graphic By: Armando Urena in the NFL. After all the cases and charges, the QB lost a total of $130 million. Junior Austin Heim said, “I definitely remember what happened with Vick, I am a huge Eagles

fan and what he did years ago still amazes me.” Fortunately for Vick, he was eventually signed by the Philadephia Eagles and given a shot at redemption.

NBA champion Antoine Walker of the Miami Heat 2006 title team went bankrupt in 2008. Walker stated his bankruptcy resulted from several loans from eight banks and once the economy hit recession, he was forced to pay all the money back.

Over a 13 year career, Walker made roughly $110 million dollars and lost nearly all of it. The former basketball player has gone from hitting three-pointers all over

the court, to scrapping for money after a string of poor decisions just a couple years ago.

Supposedly the greatest boxer of all time, Mike Tyson, has also had his career earnings diminished. In 1992, he was convicted of sexual assault and served three years in prison. Along with this, Tyson spent millions and millions on mansions, an expensive divorce, and even pet tigers. With all of this added up, Tyson spent nearly $350 million from his career earnings.

These are just several of thousands of professional athletes that have gone bankrupt over the years and as these occurrences demonstrate, managing finances is no simple task, even for famous athletes.

Senior Kevin Ellenbogen said, “I hate seeing this happen to guys in the pros. They become no lives if they go bankrupt and it’s setting a bad example on teens playing sports across the nation.” This has become a serious issue for pros and they must do something now before even more professional athletes go “Broke.”

Entertainment October 2012

12

Scare zones, zombies and screams: Oh my!

Nicolette Sponer MANAGING EDITOR

Walking past the revolving Universal globe, through the metal detectors and into Universal Studios during Halloween Horror Nights was sure to make anyone’s heartbeat race. This year’s theme for Horror Nights was “The Walking Dead” and Universal surely surpassed expectations for turning the park into a zombie-infested graveyard.

Upon entering the theme park, there were two massive gates covered in cobwebs, branches and “Do Not Enter” signs. If this didn’t set the atmosphere by itself, fog lingered in the air and eerie music played from every available speaker around the park. There are two main characteristics of Halloween Horror Nights: scare zones and haunted houses. This year, there were “no” scare zones; however, actors did tend to congregate in specific areas and did not roam every inch of the park as advertised.

Universal set loose zombies, vampires, and their signature chainsaw maniacs to wander the park streets. Whenever you happened to wander into a hoard of scare actors, there was no doubt that you would emit a few screams before leaving the area.

There were seven houses: Dead Inside, Silent Hill, Penn & Teller’s New(kd) Vegas, Alice Cooper’s Welcome to My Nightmare, Universal’s House of Horrors, Gothic, and Dead End. The first house, closest to Rip Ride Rocket and Despicable Me: Minion Mayhem, was Silent Hill. Based on the popular video game, this house showcased faceless zombies and other horrors literally waiting around every corner. On a scale of 1-10, its scare factor was a 9. If you walked

Scare zones, zombies and screams: Many of the students at PPCHS are heading out to Halloween Horror Nights, one of the most popular places to go to get a good scare this time of year.

Donated By: Jessica Kaminsky

towards the Revenge of the Mummy, you would’ve run into two more houses: Gothic and Dead End. Gothic’s theme was based on a haunted cathedral and Dead End was a haunted mansion. While Dead End pulled up short as a 7 on the scare factor, Gothic was perhaps the best and most detailed house of the night, earning a 10. Clever ef-

fects were used in the places you’d never expect them to be, which allowed for the scares to take you even more by surprise as they occurred. Junior Davin Miret says, “Gothic was my favorite house, by far.

They incorporated so much detail into the sets while still implementing a huge scare factor.” The Walking Dead house, based on

AMC’s show The Walking Dead, had zombies oozing out of every crevice. Fans of the show will likely appreciate the house more than the rest, though the costumes are what made this house an 8. Penn & Teller’s New(kd) Las Vegas is the 3-D house of the year. It wasn’t as scary compared to The Inbetween house last year, but it had some insanely clever gags including a threebreasted woman and radioactive lobsters.

The next two houses were located next to the Barney show and Woody Woodpecker ride, but they were by no means kiddie events. Perhaps the creepiest house, Alice Cooper’s Welcome to My Nightmare, featured Cooper’s awesome music as a background for the twisted visuals and scares that take place inside. Cooper’s house was definitely a 9 out of 10 on the scare scale. Universal’s House of Horrors mixed the principle of strobe-based scares with the appeal of the classic Universal monsters as they were seen in their respective films. The Wolfman, Dracula, Phantom of the Opera, the Creature from the Black Lagoon and Frankenstein were all represented in the house and the scares came with them. Though the waiting lines for all seven houses ranged from 60-90 minutes, it was the only disappointment. Every house insured blood-curdling screams and images that will haunt some nightmares.

Halloween Horror Nights 22 was an overall success: the houses averaged a 9 on the scare meter and actors pursued your every move. Senior Sasha Abrishami says, “I initially thought I wouldn’t make it out of HHN alive, by the end of the night, I didn’t want to leave! I can’t wait to see what Universal puts together next year.”

Your favorite superheroes coming to life UMF: Let the countdown begin!

2, the Justice League, Man of Steel (Superman), The Wolverine, and even some less Recently, the Marvel and DC franchises known, but equally important and awehave been at large and are very popular. some characters such as Deadpool, Ant People who like comic books and graphic Man, and the Guardians of the Galaxy. novels—formerly known as ‘geeks’ or Not much is known about these new movnerds’—have grown to encompass most of ies, but they will be action-packed and the population as some of our favorite su- filled with cool fighting scenes. Although perheroes have hit the silver screen; in mod- the superhero movies are usually in the ern times, action genre, anyone can they also conwatch and tain comelike superdic aspects hero movies and romantic without bestorylines. ing judged Be alert for like they may trailers behave been in ing released, the past. like the Iron “Superheroes Man 3 trailer, represent evwhich is alery great arready out and chetype ever the Thor 2 written and trailer, which their stories can be exrepresent evpected in the ery incredinear future. ble story ever “I’m very told,” says excited for Alden Diaz, the upcoma junior and ing superavid comic hero films. book reader/ Favorite Superheroes: Notorious superheroes like the Hulk, Captain As someone America, and Spiderman are making their way onto the silver screen c o l l e c t o r . and attracting audiences all around. Graphic By: Nick Lee Yee who reads “For me and comic books for many other comic book fans and film weekly, it is quite an experience to see your buffs, superheroes represent the parts of us favorite superheroes up on the big screen inside that want to make a difference; they in all their glory. Superheroes’ popularity provide an escape and characters to believe is gradually depleting the social stigma in. I think that they—like the Westerns en- against comic books barrier more and joyed by our grandparents—have become more; now people will be able to read and so popular because people are catching on enjoy comic books without being labeled to the validity of the characters and stories. as an outcast,” says Gabriel Perez, a junior They can and should be taken seriously.” who frequently reads comic books.

Superhero movies have never been such a From backpacks to lunchboxes to movbig part of life and they are just increasing ies and more, superheroes are zooming in popularity. A lot of the favorites have through the nation and gaining popularalready had movies focused on them and ity. Who doesn’t like watching an amazing new ones have been announced; these in- person solve problems and save the world? clude Iron Man 3, Thor 2 (the Dark World), The movies that have been announced will Captain America 2 (the Winter Soldier), truly be amazing and “I can’t wait,” says the Amazing Spider-Man 2, the Avengers Perez.

Joshua Alleman MANAGING EDITOR-LAYOUT

Andrea Bellorin STAFF WRITER

As the crowds of thousands of electronic music lovers gather and night falls, some of the world’s best electronic DJ’s come together in one common place to share their love for music. During the sunny days of spring break, Ultra Music Festival takes a trip down to Miami to celebrate the largest party in the world with some of the most captivating light shows and enthusiastic crowds.

Let the countdown begin as people anxiously await the goose bumps felt as the bass drops to their favorite songs.

On Monday October 15, the biggest announcement was unleashed to all Ultra fans: 2013’s Ultra Music Festival will take place two weekends in March rather than the usual one weekend. Ultra is offiCountdown to Ultra: Steve Aoki (pictured above) made the crowd go wild at last year’s Ultra Music Festival. Donated By: Alexis cially the biggest music fesChiusano tival in the entire world, according to ultramusicfestival. others cannot wait for their first time excom. On March 15-17 and March 22-24 perience. The thrill of watching their faUltra will be taking place at Bayfront Park, vorite international electronic music DJ’s Miami. Tickets recently went on sale and perform their sets live is something to look are quite pricey this year compared to pre- forward to. “In my opinion, Ultra won’t be vious years. During last year’s early bird as great as it was last year. Not only beticket releases, the weekend combo for all cause of the fact that they made it more exthree days was priced at $150 and sold out pensive, but now it’s less exclusive,” says within 10 minutes. This year, on October junior Juan Osorio.

16, tickets went on sale for subscribers As the days get closer, fans all around the only- a very exclusive ticket release. To world look forward to the revealing of the no surprise, the tickets priced at $150 were anticipated lineup. What worldly known sold out in a matter of 40 minutes. As fans DJ’s will perform this year? Stay tuned from all around the world logged onto the with Ultra’s official website http://www. website the following day for general tick- ultramusicfestival.com/ to keep up to date et sales, they were shell shocked to see this with all the exciting news and announceyear’s prices. The prices had sky rocketed ments. overnight to an astounding $300 per week- “From all the stories I’ve heard, Ultra end, not including service fees of almost seems like nothing but a good time,” says $100. junior Tasha Chew. “I plan on going next Although the prices are higher for 2013’s year with all my friends and having fun festival, many students cannot wait to ex- dancing and listening to my favorite DJ’s. perience the festival all over again while I can’t wait!”

Entertainment ‘Great Expectations’ for winter remakes 13 October 2012 Jordana Cutajar FEATURES EDITOR

It seems that every few years or so the movie industry decides to reproduce preexisting films, adding some new stylistic features to the script, a fresh faced cast, and a reinterpreted twist to timeless tales. Some argue that the originals are always better, and even more claim that when recreating a movie that is based on a book, the written is usually superior to the produced. With the winter season whistling right around the corner, it’s expected that theaters will be inundated with classic remakes featuring Great Expectations, Anna Karenina, The Great Gatsby, Les Miserables, and Romeo and Juliet. Wuthering Heights, the trail blazer for a season of classical renewal, was released October 5th and paved the way for Leo Tolstoy’s Anna Karenina.

On November 9th movie theaters will showcase Tolstoy’s traumatic tale of multiple loves. The official trailer begins with a quote by Leo Tolstoy, “There are as many loves as there are hearts,” setting the screen for the complicated reenactment of Anna Karenina’s life. Keira Knightly reunites with director Joe Wright, who directed both Pride and Prejudice and Atonement, playing the gripping protagonist alongside Jude Law (Aleksei Karenin) and Aaron Taylor (Johnson- Count Vronsky). The novel explores the structured life of Anna Karenina and the multiple relationships she encounters in her life, while trying to make sense of her role in society. Knightly said in an interview the film is “both modern and classic”. Although Tolstoy’s novel has been the inspiration of previous films, Wright’s adaptation supposedly blends these ideas. The majority of the movie will take place in a theater, at the time symbolic of the Russian desire to be something it was not.

This Christmas will be the release date for the beloved classics The Great Gatsby

and Les Miserables. Charter is no stranger to the greatness that is embodied in one of America’s most ground breaking novels.

Students currently enrolled in AP Lang. and English III Honors will be reading F. Scott Fitzgerald’s masterpiece at some point this year, reinforcing the historical background in U.S. history when they learn about the Roaring Twenties. For seniors who already read the modern magnum opus, the movie’s release will arrive just in the nick of time! “I enjoyed reading The Great Gatsby, but it wasn’t one of my favorites.

I’m still looking forward to the movie,” said senior Lillian Coe. The movie will star Leonardo DiCaprio as Jay Gatsby, Carey Mulligan as Daisy Buchanan, and Tobey Maguire as Nick Carraway; there is already talk about Oscar nominations.

The musical phenomenon Les Miserables will also be premiering Christmas day this year. Senior Dominique Philoctete said, “I’m reading Les Mis now, I love Hugo’s dark humor. I’m really excited for the movie.” Senior Pearl Hanna also remarked, “This year band will be playing a song from Les Mis!” The star studded cast including Hugh Jackman, Anne Hathaway, Russell Crowe, and Amanda Seyfried, recorded the entire film live. Usually in musical film productions the singing is recorded before the acting. However, in this Les Mis, all the actors recorded their music live while acting. It is believed that this method increases the emotion that is released through the

Graphic By: Armando Urena

powerful lyrics. The world renowned musical, based on the French novel written by Victor Hugo, is expected to be a huge success in theaters this winter.

Pip, pip hurray! The cinematic return of Dickens classic Great Expectations will be

released at the end of November. Senior Pearl Hanna read the book her sophomore year saying, “It was a fun read I thought it was interesting and Pip’s voice was really cute. I have “Great Expectations” for the movie.”

Stay on the edge of your seat this month Gabriela Garcia STAFF WRITER

The month of October represents a lot of different things, from homecoming season to pumpkin carving to the beautiful fall weather. Let’s not forget one of the most important and highly anticipated parts: the movies. Whether it is gore, horror, or the adrenaline-pumping thrill that motivates you to buy a ticket, you’ll be sure to find something that suits your style among these box-office sensations.

Paranormal Activity 4: The fourth installation to the terrifying horror series has a new addition that picks up where the second movie left off. Focusing on a completely new family and home, this film disappointedly left more unanswered ques-

Graphic By: Armando Urena

tions than answers. ScreenRant itself says, “Some viewers will defend the film for being satisfactorily spooky but, compared to the prior entries, Paranormal Activity 4 is by far the least compelling.” Junior Rebecca Rivero couldn’t agree more. “I definitely didn’t like the fourth Paranormal Activity more than the previous ones,” she says, “I can easily say it was extremely suspenseful, and I definitely hope they make another sequel so I can have some of my questions finally answered.” In summation, it looks like this film failed to completely please its audience, but will still have you in for a good scare.

Taken 2: This action-packed thriller is the follow up film to the original Taken, which was released four years ago and was an instant hit. CNN dubs the second movie to

be “the same as the original, but different”.

Liam Neeson returns as character Bryan Mills, reuniting with his daughter and exwife in Europe. Similar to the prior film, the broken family finds themselves in a ruckus with Albanian human traffickers and must fight for their lives once again. Junior Melissa Rueda was very pleased with the movie. “Typically the second movie is always overdone, but this one was just as good as the original,” says Rueda. Junior Brandon Navas was also very impressed: “There was a lot more action in this movie compared to the original, I enjoyed it more than I did the first.”

Sinister: From the same writer/director who brought us the Exorcism of Emily Rose, Scott Derrickson “delivers a smart and disturbing film experience” (Screen

Rant). The main character Ethan Hawke is a crime novelist who finds a box of “mysterious, disturbing home movies that plunge his family into a nightmarish experience of supernatural horror”, according to Rotten Tomatoes. “The scares are effective throughout,” says John Defore from Huffington Post. “However, many of the ingredients that make ‘Sinister’ compelling wouldn’t make sense a second time around. Some of them barely held up for the first”.

No matter what the critical reviews may reveal, the only true judge of these movies can be you. October is one of the box office’s best months, so make sure you get out there and watch these unforgettable nail-biters. Don’t forget your popcorn!

Technology October 2012

14 Mac or PC, Which One Are You?

Anthony Kelleher STAFF WRITER

For years, the world of technology has been faced with an almighty war between two types of computers, the Macintosh (Mac) and the Personal Computer (PC). These two different computers have long been competing to be labeled the best by its users. The Mac and PC’s are constantly trying to outdo each other with the creation of new features such as better resolution, upgrading software and operating systems. In today’s world, people want the latest and greatest technology; simply put, they want the best. These two computers have similar qualities, but they also have unique characteristics that make each computer stand out on its own.

The Macintosh, better known as the Mac, is a computer developed by Apple and runs on OS X Mountain Lion. The Macs have 3 different models that will suit most students at PPCHS. They are the Macbook Air, The Macbook Pro, and the iMac (a desktop). The Macs come in a variety of sizes from 11 inches to 27 inches and range

from $999 to $2799. For standard models, the Mac has 1 to 4 GB of RAM. The Mac has many features, such as a lightweight design, long-lasting battery life, and a great display. One big advantage of the Mac is that it is less prone to viruses, unlike the PC. A disadvantage is that they have a smaller hard drive than the PC, but its applications take up less memory than the PC. Also, the Mac can run on Windows software and features such as Microsoft Word and Excel. This computer is also great for gaming and creating and editing movies with its iLife software that is included with purchase. “I personally like the Mac better

because it is more organized. I like software better than a PC and it is more modern in my opinion” says sophomore Sofia Lalinde.

The Personal Computer, also known as the PC, is well liked and used by students at PPCHS. PCs also come in a variety of sizes ranging from a small 10 inches to a whopping 20 inches and sometimes even larger.

There are many different brands of PC computers, such as HP and Toshiba, which gives them much more buying versatility than the Mac. The PC’s run on a Windows operating system such as the newer Windows 7 and the upcoming Windows 8. “I like the PC better because I believe it is more user friendly than the Mac and they are a lot cheaper than a Mac,” says senior Alexis Good. Some of the features of the PC are very similar to the Mac such as a great display and long battery life. The standard PC has 2 to 8 GB of RAM. PCs prices usually range from $300 to $2000. Even though the initial price for the PC is cheaper, the PC is more

INNOVATIONS: A new “transformer” Reported By; Joshua ALLEMAN MANAGING EDITOR-LAYOUT

The new Gibbs Quadski amphibious AllTerrain-Vehicle transforms and doubles as a jet ski. This all-in-one vehicle will be available to the public for purchase for about $40,000 in the United States by the end of this year and Gibbs hopes to sell this product worldwide by 2014. This is the first high-speed, commercially available amphibious vehicle; it will drive up to 45 miles per hour on land and then a button is pressed, folding the wheels up to the sides, which makes it a water vehicle that also travels at around 45 miles per hour.

“You just drive straight into the water, quite fast, and keep on going. It’s sort of magic,” the founder of Gibbs Sports Amphibians, Alan Gibbs, said in a recent interview as stated in ottawacitizen.com.

The vehicle made by the Michigan-based Gibbs Sports Amphibious Inc. has all-terrain tires that can rise mechanically when the vehicle is brought into the water and

susceptible to viruses and computer crashes than the Mac and if a computer gets a virus it could be very costly to fix.

Overall, the Mac and PC are two very similar computers with different personalities.

A Mac is more costly but in the long run it is easier to maintain. A PC is cheaper than the Mac but it may become costly if a virus attacks the computer. In the long run, it is pretty much a personal preference of software between being a Mac or a PC user: which are you?

Graphic By: Armando Urena

a four cylinder, 175 horsepower BMWsupplied engine that is encased by a lightweight, fiberglass hull and a solid frame.

This vehicle that can transform in five seconds is truly revolutionary.

“This is really something amazing,” says

New bra could detect cancer, save lives Alexandra Mangano MANAGING EDITOR OF WEB

Here in South Florida, and all over America, the month of October is colored in pink. Since our modern day society is filled with technological advances constantly, a new development just came out that will hopefully take breast cancer research to another level.

The fresh innovation that derived from a Nevada-based company called “First Warning Systems” added a twist to this year’s breast cancer month talk -- a sports bra that can detect breast cancer now known as Smart Bra. “The sports bra uses a sophisticated array of sensors to measure and monitor tiny changes in body temperature caused by blood vessel growth that’s associated with the creation of tumors,” according to theweek.com. With the many complications and false scans that happen due to the unsophisticated technology that is in use, this new bra will stand more efficient and hopefully reduce the rapid growing rate of women dying due to breast cancer. This gives doctors a better advantage to cure and apply treatment before it becomes deadly.

When women heard the talk of this product, it became top news for all who support this marvelous month. Junior Taylor Cowheard had much to say about this new product: “Since I have been affected by people in my family who had to fight breast cancer, I think this is an incredible advancement especially because nowadays most women don’t find out until later on when it’s almost too late.” The Smart Bra has

Mac or PC: Our school is like many others and provides their students with PC instead of Macs.

Photos By: Carli Stander

junior Aditya Iyer. “Science has come so far recently and I can’t wait to see what is developed next.”

According to foxnews.com, Alan Gibbs has built nine prototypes, gotten three hundred patents, and spent two hundred mil-

Xbox Music breaks through the music industry Victoria Alvarez ENVIRONMENTAL/HEALTH EDITOR

Graphic By: Julian Leon

impressed everyone so far. A preliminary trial done by the developers showed that the bra detected cancer six years before a tumor could even be visible by doctors.

This technological achievement will create a new future for the women of the world.

Now that the Smart Bra has been created, it will be on sale at an approximate price of $1,000. Although this doesn’t seem like an affordable amount for the average person, on the contrary it will save every women a lot more money than having an annual mammogram. If every woman gets to the chance to purchase the Smart Bra, it will lower the number of women diagnosed with breast cancer every year, and increase the spirit of the month of October.

lion dollars to get his inventions to where they are today. It certainly has taken a lot of work and brainpower, but Gibbs has created an amazing vehicle that will change the way we travel forever.

Microsoft’s Xbox has always been known for its impressive gaming system with video games such as Halo, Call of Duty, and hundreds of others. However, as times are changing and the technological world is growing, Xbox has taken their product to an entire new level: music. Normally, people can download and listen to music on sites such as iTunes, YouTube, and Pandora, but now Xbox is putting their name on the map of the musical world.

On some music-download websites, users must either pay for each song or album and or sit through advertisements throughout their listening. However, The Xbox Music is offering different choices for all types of listeners. For example, the user can enjoy on-demand access to millions of songs for free on all Windows 8 and Windows RT tablets and PCs. The songs are easily found by simply typing the name of an artist or song into the search box. Users can also enjoy Xbox Music through Music Pass, which will give the listeners unlimited access to all songs online and offline, ad-free, for just $9.99 a month.

“Xbox is creating a mega music site to download music in different ways. Even though it’s best for Microsoft friendly users, Xbox Music is still available for everyone around. It’s exciting to see the company go from gaming systems to music downloading sites. Big things are expected from this breakthrough,” said junior Tony London.

Though the new Xbox Music sounds very

different from all other music sites, there are some ways that it is the same. For example, there are few ways in which Xbox Music is very alike to iTunes and Spotify.

If there is a song or album that a user likes, or that they have been streaming on for free, Microsoft offers an MP3 store where they can purchase the tracks and download them to their computer, allowing them to own them and play them on all music players. iTunes has the same main idea. Users pay for music, download it, and then add it to their own personal devices.

“I’m really excited to see what Xbox Music has to offer,” says junior Tatiana Bustamante. “As a singer and Xbox owner, it’s exciting to see the company taking music to the next level. Adding all of the components of iTunes, Pandora, and Spotify and putting them into one large music downloader is a huge breakthrough for both the music and technology industry. This is a huge deal.”

Graphic By: Julian Leon