The CHAT Newspaper - Feb/March 2013 Issue # 10

What would you do if...?

Features Pages 4-5

How to pop the question: Will you go to prom with me?

Student Life Pages 2,3

Waterpolo, tennis most promising One disease, countless lives Sports

Pages 8,9,10

Environmental/Health

Pages 6,7

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Student Life February/March 2013

How to pop the question: Will you go to prom with me?

Angelique Berkowitz ENTERTAINMENT EDITOR

the span of the steps. You stand there waiting for your special someone to walk up to the steps to greet you with a big hug and a response of “Yes.” Aside from the U building steps and the cafeteria, you can ask your special someone to prom during one of their classes.

For a romantic touch, you can spread rose petals throughout her room surrounding “Will you go to prom with me?” is a questhe word ‘Prom’ spelled out in miniature tion that is well renowned and one that evcandles. ery senior girl dreams of hearing as they For the more adventurous prom invitabegin to make preparations for one of the tion, a scavenger hunt is definitely the way most important nights of their life -- prom to go. Sending your potential prom date night. On the evening of around the town to differMay 18th, the senior class ent hot spots is one way of 2013 will be hosting to build the anticipation prom at the Westin Hotel as well as the excitement. located on Ft. Lauderdale Your special someone is beach. Students will pile lead on a journey around into the breathtaking prom town where they will find venue dressed up from head clues scattered about their to toe in stunning gowns favorite spots, leading up to and tuxedos with matching the final destination where bowties. Before the finale the question will be asked. arrives, the first prom task “I haven’t gotten asked is finding a date. For the to prom yet, but I know males, finding a date and that when I am, I want the planning a prom invitation moment to be special,” that is cute and memorable says senior Allison Tomey. proves to be a difficult task “I’ve been helping a lot of as the females sit back and my friends ask their special wait for some lucky man to someone to prom by givpop the question. Here are ing them ideas and helping a few ways to ask a special them create the moment someone to prom with the Have you popped the question?: Senior Wade Meade makes a big impression on his girlfriend, Senior Claudia Cueto, in order to ask her to prom. Photo and it makes me excited to hopes of receiving the an- By: Natalia Cevallos see what someone will plan ticipated three letter word for me.” as your awaited answer.

You can walk in carrying a poster and bou- dinary moment is perhaps the way to go.

Whether you decide to ask a girl to prom Before deciding on how to ask someone quet of roses or leave a fishbowl filled with Ringing the doorbell of your potential prom riding in on a horse, dressed as a knight in to prom, you must decide whether you goldfish on the desk of your suitor with the date will surely be a surprise to remember. shining armor or simply surprise her with want your “prom”-posal to be private or clever phrase, “Of all the fish in the sea, For an added touch you can appear hold- a prom cake and bouquet of flowers, getpublic. Marching into the cafeteria with a will you go to prom with me?” written on a ing a cake with the simple phrase ‘Prom?’ ting a response of “Yes” is the first step of few of your closest friends holding a ban- little note card. written in pink frosting across the top and the prom process. Finding a date and inner that reads “Will you go to prom with “Before asking my girlfriend to prom, a bouquet of pink roses. Another personal viting them to prom in a cute way is only me?” and a bouquet of red roses is quite I decided that I wanted to do something idea is to scatter balloons throughout the the beginning of what’s to come before the the public invitation. Perhaps maybe you’ll cute and memorable and make it public,” room of your potential prom date leaving arrival of the final moment on the evening want the entire school to see so you stand says senior Jordan Holsendolph. “I felt it letters inside of them. To solve the mes- of May 18th. Now for the ultimate question on the steps of the U building holding up was important to make everything perfect sage, your date must pop the balloons and that stands- how will you pop the question? posters with the question sprawled across which is why I went to my friends for help. rearrange the letters to reveal the question.

Si lver is t he ne w ‘gold’: Si lve r Kn i g hts shine at PPCHS Nicolette Sponer MANAGING EDITOR- CONTENT

If you ask any college-bound senior what is at the top of their to-do list, they would all most likely reply with one word: scholarships. There are literally thousands of scholarships available for students, but who has the time between AP practice and coaching soccer to apply to them all?

Plus, there’s no guarantee that you’ll actually win. 54 years ago, the Miami Herald provided a solution to this problem. They set up the Silver Knight Awards which recognizes South Floridian seniors who selflessly contribute to their community. This program isn’t just merit based unlike many other scholarships. Although good grades do play a role, students are awarded based on their contribution of significant service

Omari White - Speech

to their schools and communities.

“I feel that winning a community service award is so much more rewarding than a scholastic one,” says senior and nominee Hannah Colson. “If I don’t win Silver Knight, it won’t be the end of the world. I know I didn’t do all of this just to win an award.”

The Silver Knight awards are open to all Miami- Dade and Broward high school seniors who hold a 3.2 unweighted GPA (minimum). There are fifteen categories in which a student may be nominated: Art, Athletics, Business, Drama, English & Literature, General Scholarship, Journalism, Mathematics, Music and Dance, New Media, Science, Social Science, Speech,

Brianna Rimi - Drama

Alexandra Mangano - Journalism

Troy Bottom News Editor

Nicolette Sponer-Content Joshua Alleman -Layout Managing Editors

Brianna Cha-Kim Student Life Editor

Gabriela Cabeza Photo Editor

Alexandra Mangano Technology Editor

Julian Graves Graphics Editor

Peter Dourvetakis Gabriela Garcia Business Managers Mr. Fagen - Content Mr. Simon - Layout Advisers Mr. Bayer Principal

Angelique Berkowitz Entertainment Editor David Nabors Sports Editor Jordana Cutajar Features Editor Victoria Alvarez Environmental Editor

Vocational-Technical, and World Languages. Though each school can nominate up to fifteen students- one for each category- it’s not required. PPCHS has nominated seven superior seniors this year in hopes that one will claim the title of Silver Knight. Omari White (Speech), Brianna Rimi (Drama), Alexandra Mangano (Journalism), Taylor Mathews (English), Gail Fletcher (Social Studies), Chizoba Ezenwa (General), and Hannah Colson (Athletics) have been deemed Silver Knight Nominees.

“I volunteered my time to teach dance to kids of all ages at the Cooper City Jewish Community Center,” says Brianna Rimi.

“I would be beyond honored to win Silver Knight because it’s such a prestigious award and so many kids have amazing projects and stories. To just be nominated among them is incredible for me.” A panel of independent judges, who will select one Silver Knight and three Honorable Men-

Taylor Mathews - English

Gail Fletcher - Social Studies

tions in that specific category, will interview these seniors. The prizes for Silver Knights include $2,000, a Silver Knight Statue, and a medallion presented by American Airlines. The three Honorable Mentions receive $500 and an engraved plaque.

“Being nominated in the first place shows that my community and international service has been recognized, so this has been really uplifting to know that others notice the hard work I do outside of school,” says Chizoba Ezenwa. “If I were to win, that would only make the experience better knowing that more people are aware of my outreach in Nigeria.”

Whether these seven seniors actually win the title of Silver Knight or not, they are all exceptional students in the eyes of PPCHS- and in the eyes of the communities they’ve aided.

Chizoba Ezenwa - General

Hannah Colson - Athletics

The C. H. A. T. Staff

Nicholas D’ Agostino Editor-in-Chief

Melissa Sullivan Web Managing Editor

They helped me come up with the concept of the fish bowl and the clever phrase that went along with it.”

For those who are a bit shy and favor a prom invitation that is more personal, making a trip to your special someone’s house with a few friends to record the extraor-

Christopher Fernandez Video Editor Emily Semander Cartoonist

CONTENT STAFF: Brett Alayon, Joshua Alleman, Andrea Bellorin, Cassidy-Rae Brantley, Jessica-Lynn Carvajal, Chelsi Chang, Hayley Coolidge, Jake Dreilinger, Gabriela Garcia, Jacob Isenberg , Anthony Kellher, Chelsie Ramos, Nina Salcicciloi LAYOUT STAFF: Victoria Alvarez, Maria Bozo, Jake Dreilinger, Nick Lee Yee, Annette Marin, William McKinley, Melissa Sullivan PHOTOGRAPHY STAFF: Natalia Cevallos, Peter Dourvetakis, JP Dussan, Rebecca Gonzalez, Alex Monge, Carli Stander, Johmi Vargas GRAPHICS STAFF: Armando Urena VIDEO STAFF: Troy Bottom, Andres Gonzalez, Kyle MossSolomon

The C.H.A.T. is an official publication of the Pembroke Pines Charter High School (PPCHS). The content of our newspaper is not necessarily the opinions of our advisers and administration. The C.H.A.T. staff welcomes any comments to the editors and/or staff. The C.H.A.T is a publication of C.H.C (Charter High Communications) sponsored by the Communications & Technology Department of PPCHS. Pembroke Pines Charter High School 17189 Sheridan Street Pembroke Pines, FL 33331 Phone: 954-538-3700 Email: chatnews@pinescharter.com Twitter: @_theCHATter

Big clubs, even bigger events Jake Dreilinger STAFF WRITER

On Tuesday February 19th, club presidents from every club met at the ISC meeting.

There, all the presidents gave reports on their clubs and talked about future and past events. Some of the school’s main clubs are preparing major events in the upcoming months.

Key Club is a well-known club here at PPCHS for its commitment to community service. One of their biggest events in the year is the blood drive. They do three blood drives in the school year, and so far they have done two of them. In the first drive about 100 pints of blood were collected and the second drive collected 86 pints. Their goal for the March 12th blood drive is to get 100 pints and with that they will saved nearly 1000 lives this whole year. Also, on Saturday March 23rd, Key Club will be doing an event with AccessLife at CB Smith Park. They will be volunteering to help the disabled do things that they normally are not able to do alone, like swimming and shooting arrows.

NHS also has a lot coming up. They are wrapping up Pennies for Pasta, which ended Friday March 22nd. NHS also does a lot of volunteering for the community.

NHS will be volunteering in an egg hunt for the city for Easter and might also be volunteering at an art festival. “We are pre-

paring for the induction ceremony for our new members,” said NHS president Lauren Suarez. “This is a great ceremony for those who were selected to join NHS.” About a hundred students have applied for NHS but only a select few will get accepted.

Relay for Life was also at the meeting and is in the midst of preparing for their main event, the Relay for Life Night. This is their biggest event for the remainder of the year and it’s coming up later in March. “We are preparing to sleep over on the site,” said Relay for Life President Fabiola Moleiro. “We are working on fundraising and getting our members prepared.” For fundraising, Relay for Life is starting their luminaria sales. The luminarias will be used to honor a person that has fought a battle against cancer. It is a $2 minimum donation for these luminarias.

They will also be using the luminarias to light the track, the site of the event.

This is the biggest fundraiser for the Relay for Life Night, so help out the club and purchase your luminaria.

Student Government Association, SGA, also has big things planned for the upcoming months, such as. The spring pep rally is coming up shortly. This pep rally will introduce many of our spring

3 Student Life

February/March 2013

Upcoming events: Our clubs at PPCHS are hard at work on upcoming and past events. NHS just finished their Pennies for Pasta event where money was collected for cancer. Relay for Life has their big fundraiser event really soon and Key Club will be hosting their last blood drive in March. Photos By Photography Staff

sports teams and will pump up the crowd for the remainder of the season. Also, they are preparing for the 8th grade orientation in April; this is the future freshmen’s first chance to really take a look at their future school.

The weekend of March 1st is the FASC (Florida Association of Student Councils) convention that SGA will also be attending in West Palm Beach. Our very own SGA class will be hosting a workshop in the huge convention for the other many SGA classes across Floridaa huge accomplishment.

All of these clubs host events for the involvement of PPCHS students.

These are the major clubs of PPCHS and their events are even better known throughout school. Fliers promoting these events are already hung up in every building, classroom, and hallway. These clubs are here to stay and are ready to help PPCHS.

Singer shoots for the stars

Wage increases bring excitement to workers

Everywhere we go; music can be heard not too far away. Whether in the shower or in the car, teenagers enjoy listening to music by famed singers such as Beyoncé and Adele. One PPCHS junior is attempting to follow in these singers’ footsteps and begin her musical career as a standout female singer.

Junior Isabel Vasquez hopes to reach the fame and status of these inspiring singers and obtain successful musical career in her future. She often performs in front of large crowds singing classic, well known songs.

As a young girl Vasquez dreamed of being a singer. “I love performing, every time I get the chance to sing I jump at it. The feeling of being on a stage and hearing everyone clap for something that I enjoy doing makes me feel so special and really gives me a high confidence boost,” said Vasquez.

Every weekend she gets dressed in her favorite high heels and form fitting dress and makes her way to the outlet mall, the Shoppes at Pembroke Gardens. She warms up her vocals and walks out, ready to impress everyone who crosses her path. She can be found performing often on weekend nights in front of the fountains next to The Tavern and The Pub where she is greeted by large crowds that stop and watch her execute every high note.

“As the chorus President, she is an amazing leader and soloist. Her voice is stunning, she has natural talent and loves what she does,” said PPCHS chorus teacher, Ms. Chasin.

Vasquez also performed in this year’s annual PPCHS Talent Show which was held

Good news to all PPCHS students who have after school jobs: the minimum wage has increased! For those who do not know what minimum wage is, it is the least amount of money you can get paid per hour when you have a job. As of January 1st, 2013 the minimum wage has officially increased from $7.67 to $7.79 in Florida.

This is a huge increase for the State of Florida and this drastic change is helping out PPCHS students. Junior Christian Alvarez, who works at clothing company Hollister, says, “When I heard that the state of Florida is going to increase our paycheck, I was so happy. It gives me more motivation to work knowing that I am going to get paid more. It makes going to work worth it.”

Melissa Sullivan WEB MANAGING EDITOR

Singing to the top: Junior Isabel Vasquez continues to follow her dreams of one day becoming a famous singer. Photo By: JP Dussan

on January 24th. She walked out on stage, ready to blow the audience away and stand out amongst several other students who had already completed vocal performances. Singing along to “Unbreak your Heart,” she left the stage with a feeling of accomplishment and left tears in her mother’s eyes.

“The night of the talent show was amazing. My mom was so proud of me and she couldn’t stop smiling because she was so happy,” said Vasquez.

Hopefully this junior will continue to stand out amongst others and meet her goals of becoming a well-known singer in the near future. Vasquez hopes to make it big one day, with her albums playing on every radio station and being sold out in every store.

“I love singing; it’s what I live for and enjoy doing. I can’t imagine doing anything else in my life. This is what I was meant to do,” added Vasquez.

Debate students battle ivy vines Looghermine Claude STAFF WRITER

Harvard: Debate students visited the campus while on a competition in the ivy league college. Photo Donated By: Mollie Bayer

For four days, eleven members of the Pines Charter debate team headed off to the ivy clad buildings of Harvard to compete in a competition like no other. From February 15 - 18, Madison Wheeler, Danny Kal-

ter, Brian Caulfield, Sofia Lalinde, Mollie Bayer, Adam Isenberg, Jeannine Thurston, Corey Villard, Emily Baena, Stephen Litton, and Joseph McCully faced the cold weather and competed against teams from 150 other schools in the Harvard Speech & Debate Tournament.

The PPCHS team competed in Original Oratories, Public Forum Debates, and Lincoln Douglas Debates. Battling it out in rounds against different schools to reciting lengthy discussions, the team showed everyone at the event what Pembroke Pines Charter High School brings to the table.

In the category of Original Oratory, senior Emily Baena represented Pines Charter by giving her speech. For the Public Forum Debate students, Madison Wheeler, Danny Kalter, Brian Caulfield, Sofia Lalinde, Mollie Bayer, and Adam Isenberg spoke their minds about the topic: On Balance. It focused on the rise of China and its benefits to the interests of the United States.

Nina Salciccioli STAFF WRITER

Not only is this increase affecting PPCHS students, it affects all of Florida. Workers everywhere are ecstatic that they are going to get paid at least 12 cents more every hour. It might not seem like a lot of money, but it adds up. Due to the minimum wage increase, it is making people who do not have a job want to actually go out and apply for one.

Junior Vanessa Estevez says, “I have been meaning to go out and find a job but I just didn’t have the time to go out and look for one and start applying. But now that the minimum wage has increased it has made me more motivated to start looking for a place to work because I really want to start making some extra money for the summer.”

Wage Increase: The 12 cent increase in the minimum wage payment has motivated students to continue working and/or apply for a job. Photo By: Rebecca Gonzalez

Stephen Litton and Joseph McCully gave their all in the Student Congress category.

Jeannine Thurston and Corey Villard participated in the Lincoln Douglas Debates where the topic was: Rehabilitation ought to be valued above retribution in the United States criminal justice system.

Thurston, who participated in what is known as one of the hardest debates says, “I learned a lot of different strategies from the others competing in my category. I fed off of what they said and I learned a lot of new techniques for Lincoln Douglas Debates.”

Unfortunately, Pines Charter did not place at this tournament. But against 150 other schools that brought out their best, Pembroke Pines Charter was able to gain middle ground in all of their debates—losing some and winning more. The team has gained more than trophies or certificates could have ever given to them; the experience for the students has been priceless.

Debaters who went on this trip get bright eyes when recounting the stories of their Harvard experience.

Senior Brian Caulfield says, “The competition was intense and it was a highly competitive event being against all the other 150 schools from around the nation. All the schools deserved to be there. It was an event that I really enjoyed.”

The future of the PPCHS debate team is only going to get better. Ms. Schwab hopes and believes that with time the team can achieve greatness, even on the national level. The school’s debaters will soon be able to prove to everyone the unseen greatness of their skills. For now, Ms. Schwab has a few parting words for her students: “I am so proud of them and they should be proud of themselves. They worked so hard and have come so far already. I have no complaints. I am extremely excited about the future of the program.”

Features February/March 2013

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…you could perform at the Super Bowl Halftime Show?

Gabriela Garcia FEATURES EDITOR

On February 3rd 2013, America was blown away as Beyoncé strutted her way into the Superdome in New Orleans. Performing a timeline of her greatest hits over the past two decades, Beyoncé’s performance ranked among the best in all of Halftime Show history. Millions tuned in, and now PPCHS students have the chance to ponder what exactly they would do if the spotlight was shining on them in the middle of a legendary football game.

Victoria Gonzalez (’15): “I would probably sing, because I absolutely love to sing.

I would have really awesome back up dancers and perform a really cool dance number while wearing something extravagant.”

Adrian Mati (’14): “I would play a song on the piano and later transition into playing the guitar. I could always perform a really hip and modern song, but I think I’d rather perform a Coldplay song. It’d be really cool, because I’d have Coldplay come in later and I’d play alongside one of my favorite bands.”

Hannah Colson (’13): “I really love to dance and I think I’m pretty good at it, so I’d perform this really cute dance number. Everyone knows Hannah Montana is a classic, so I’d definitely perform one of her songs, maybe like ‘Nobody’s Perfect’. At the end of the performance, Adam Levine would come on stage with me and sweep me off my feet.”

Nalia Roba (’16): “I would jump out of the water and perform a song, something like “Free Falling”. I would make sure it’s my best performance of all time, especially because millions of people tune in to not only the Super Bowl but the Halftime Show especially. I would want people to remember my name, my dance moves, and especially my voice as I sang such a legendary song.”

…you were principal for a day?

Jessica Lynn Carvajal & Brianna Cha-Kim STAFF WRTIER & STUDENT LIFE EDITOR

Imagine this: One day you’re granted the role of principal of PPCHS. Now filled with the top-of-the-line power over a school, you make the rules for one whole day. What would you do if you were given this opportunity for a day? To walk the halls in the shoes of Mr. Bayer… who would you punish, what would you say, and how would you would act? So many options, so much to do, in just one day. Some PPCHS students have a clear vision of how they would reign over Charter.

Andrew Kelleher (‘16): “If I had the opportunity of being principal like Mr. Bayer for a day, I would have the students replace the teachers instead of being taught by teachers.

It would be students teaching the teachers and doing whatever they would like.”

Mollie Rivera (‘15): “If I had the chance of being principal for a day I would change the curriculum I would add a dance class in place of math so students could have fun dancing instead of doing math work.”

Daniel Zapata (‘14): “If I could be principal I would close the school and announce that it is a holiday that I created and every student would have a day of relaxation just because I said so.”

Luis Leano (‘13): “If I could be principal for a day I would dedicate the day to music. All classes would have a relaxing day, listening to music all six periods. Our school would turn into a party.”

What would As the third quarter reaches its end the school enters perhaps its busiest time of year with senior endeavors right around with the corner. Now is the time for students to make crucial decisions as important as committing to a college or asking a date to prom. Matching the

...you were presi Joshua Alleman MANAGING EDITOR-LAYOUT

In president Obama’s recent State of the Union Address, he discussed things like the minimum wage increase to nine dollars and his plans on cutting wasted energy consumption in half during the next 20 years. Many students feel that they could do amazing things and make great changes if they were in a place of power. These student presidents would make

Nick Adam (‘16): “If I were president, I would allow trade only with the countries that apply worker and environmental standards that are equal to or greater than our own. I would empower state and local governments while eliminating tax breaks for the super wealthy. In terms of foreign affairs, if they hit us we hit them back and if they throw a bomb at us we throw a bigger bomb.

I would keep the gun policy the same because they are necessary for protection and I would try to expand America.”

Thomas Hood (‘15): “If I were president, I’d focus on building the economy up; making it stable and productive, while rising up the middle class a bit, since the middle class isn’t exactly the middle class anymore.

It will require everyone to make a sacrifice for this change to happen; from people with sufficient wages to people with no wages, changing the economy for the better will take everyone’s effort. Something that I would want to keep the same is the relationship with China because China provides much of the goods we use today; we need to keep the steady bond we have with them.”

...you could plan y Gabriela Garcia FEATURES EDITOR

As February comes to a close, the seniors’ excitement only grows. Prom tickets have officially gone on sale and the scramble begins. Enter a time full of frustrating dress shopping, date searching and the stressful preparation for the night of their dreams. The Class of 2013 has made the coy choice of keeping their prom theme a mystery and only just recently released the location of the awaited event: The Westin Hotel on Fort Lauderdale Beach. Many

JoiMishael Martin (’16): “My theme would be probably something like ‘Midnight in Paris’ because it’s so romantic. We would serve French food, such as crepes and anything else that is foreign. I’d want it to be at a beautiful hotel, decorated with rich colors like red and purples.”

Christian Cutajar (’15): “To be honest, I haven’t really thought about prom because it seems so far away; I’m only a sophomore. I would make sure we had awesome food and an excellent DJ who played a large variety of music that would get everybody dancing.

It’d be really cool if we had some kind of performers to entertain us and make the night memorable.”

d you do if... school’s momentum, news of meteors, stranded cruise ships, and the Super Bowl performances have been erupting worldwide. Since it all can and possibly will happen to you, the CHAT wonders, what would you do if you were in these peoples’ shoes?

ident for a term?

decisions ranging from wars to take part in to gun control to insurance costs and everything in between. Putting students in a fictional world where every aspect of the government is a factor that can be changed, created, or destroyed is a good way to see what kind of future the students of today will lead this generation into.

Kiana Douglas (‘14): “If I were president I would reevaluate our society as a whole and decide with my cabinet how to best deal with our current issues; foreign affairs should be given less attention until we have fixed the majority of issues that we have at home. I would also work towards granting so called unalienable rights to all who would like to call themselves citizens and have proven themselves worthy. I’d promote legalizing gay marriage and attempt to stop the perpetuation of stereotypes based upon race, sex, religion, and other unfair prejudices based upon similar irrelevant things. I would attempt to create the equality our nation has long since preached of but never actually attained; plus it would be incredible to be the first female president.”

Brandon Rodriguez (‘13): “If I were president first thing I would do is repeal Obamacare because it violates the constitutional rights to be free to do as we please. In order to please the masses by not raising taxes, the Obama administration filed Obamacare under the commerce clause and it would be constitutional if it were enacted as a tax because the government has to the right to impose taxes. However, the federal government has no power in regulation of commerce—or at least it’s not supposed to. I would drill for oil in America and I would keep guns legalized, but the issuing of gun licenses needs to be reformed.”

your dream prom? students have daydreamed about this special night in their own unique way, all with the similar hopes of being blown away. We went around and asked students just what they hope to see on May 18th, 2013 and they each gave us their opinions on what their “perfect prom” would be.

Alejandro Kan (’14): “My dream prom would be on a cruise. We’d have a lot of famous people perform, like Kanye West and Chief Keef. All of these guys would come out and everyone would have a blast in their fancy prom dresses and suits.”

Nicole Rodriguez (’13): “Of course my absolute dream would be to have Justin Bieber as my prom date. We’d dance the night away and the DJ would be playing house and electronic music. The food would obviously be amazing, but there would have to be tons and tons of ice cream, with assorted flavors. All of this would happen on an elegant cruise ship that would take us all around Europe.”

5 Features

February/March 2013

…your vacation went horribly wrong?

Jordana Cutajar FEATURES EDITOR

What would you do if you had planned a beautiful trip to Mexico, on one of the most luxurious cruise lines when suddenly the trip came to a halt, and you and another 4,200 people were stranded at sea? The Triumph had experienced smooth sailing up until its fourth day at sea when a fire erupted, stunting the tropical trip. The fire on the ship caused a loss of power which meant the air conditioning, elevators, kitchen equipment and toilets were unable to be used. When the toilets stopped working the waste overflowed seeping through the hallways. (www.usatoday.com) Eventually the Triumph was towed into port in Mobile, Alabama. There were no sights to see, events to attend, or beach to lounge on. What would you do if you were one of the unlucky passengers?

Jana Garcia (’16): “I would make sure I had all my means of survival, like food and water.

I would feel very home sick and extremely annoyed at Carnival Cruise Lines and everyone around me. I’d be so disgusted with the way I’d have to live for a couple days and I’d hope they’d fix the problem really quick! I’m actually going on a cruise soon so I really hope this doesn’t happen to me!”

Nicole Ferrer (’14): “I think I’d go crazy. I hate when I am isolated, so I don’t think I’d be able to stand it. It’d just be so ridiculous that I’d go crazy; I mean what could you do?

Tan and do nothing all day! I guess I’d just be happy the boat wasn’t sinking and that I was still alive.”

Christina Yeh (’15): “Honestly out of boredom I’d probably sleep the whole time and go around telling people my corny jokes for the week. If there wasn’t any food I’d probably die from starvation and dehydration especially since we would be in the middle of the ocean. If the bathrooms were unavailable I think I’d cry!”

Arturo Cruz (’13): “I’d sneak into the kitchen and take a bunch of food into my cabin, mostly food that wouldn’t rot. I would fill up several bins with shower water just in case.

I’d also used the internet onboard to get in touch with people. I’d buy some cards, play soccer on the deck, and make new friends.”

...there was a meteor crashing into your backyard?

Jessica Lynn Carvajal & Brianna Cha-Kim STAFF WRTIER & STUDENT LIFE EDITOR

Picture this: a meteor free-falling from the sky, straight towards your town! Where to run, where to hide? If a meteor were to be approaching planet earth, drastic measures would be called for. This month, many citizens in Russia were faced with this predicament. On February 15th, a meteor exploded over Russia’s Ural Mountains. Containing the power of an atomic bomb, this meteor caused chaos among the region. About 1,100 people were injured by the flying debris of shattered windows. Fortunately, there were no casualties. A few PPCHS students pondered about this dangerous event and decided how they would react in this situation.

Austin Heim (‘14): “If a meteor came like it did in Russia I would run for my life, I would be truly frightened but then I would get over it and see how my family is doing after the aftermath.”

Joseluis Moronta (‘15): “If a meteor was approaching planet earth I would hide and make sure that my family and I have all the necessities to survive in case our home and environment would be damaged.”

Randy Axelson (‘16): “If a meteor were to hit at any given moment, the first thing I would do is seek shelter and make sure my family is okay.”

Freddy Barragan (‘13): “If a meteor was coming I honestly don’t know how I would react, I hope that I would react in a way that would be heroic and make sure my family is doing well.”

Health / Environmental February/March 2013

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One disease, countless lives

Mrs. Torres, Social Studies teacher and cancer survivor - “A couple of years ago, a small lump, called a nodule, was found on my thyroid.

The thyroid is a gland in your throat that regulates all kinds of stuff like metabolism, body temperature, hair growth etc. At the time, the doctors said it was benign and decided just to watch it. Later, I started to have more problems and the doctor decided the best option was to remove my thyroid. I had the surgery in June of 2012 right after the school year ended. After surgery it was sent to pathology and they found that it was cancerous. I was diagnosed with cancer on my 30th birthday. Luckily, my thyroid had already been removed, so it was a matter of making sure there was nothing left. I started radioactive iodine therapy in September; I have to take a pill and the radioactive parts of it destroy any remaining thyroid cells in the area. So far, all is good and my follow up visits to the doctor haven’t given them any reason to think it isn’t gone for good. All I do is take a pill every day to replace what my thyroid used to do. I am lucky and I continue to count my blessings every day! I “relay” so that research on treatments and cures can continue. I have seen too many people affected by cancer and I hope to see its end during my lifetime. I’ll take pride knowing I was a part of that. Our PPCHS Relay for Life Team has raised over $5,000, exceeding our original goal. We have almost 40 team members that will participate at the Relay event on March 1st.”

Photos taken by: Alex Monge and Peter Dourvetakis

Pilar Sanchez, freshman - “When I was first diagnosed with cancer, I didn’t understand what was going on. I was very young.

My cancer was leukemia, which is a type of blood cancer. This type of cancer is very common in children. I was diagnosed with cancer once in first grade and sadly once again in fifth grade. I skipped a lot of school because of the sickness and the treatment that I had to undergo. My only two full years of elementary school were kindergarten and fourth grade. Thankfully, my brother, one of the most important people in my life, was a match and gave me bone marrow which wiped out my cancer cells and gave me the white blood cells I needed. In total, I have been in the hospital for four years (non-consecutively). My experience with cancer has made me and my family stronger. I will be officially cancer free in December.”

Jessi Rowe, junior - “I participate in Relay for Life because my grandpa died from leukemia and I was really close to him. I also relay because my best friend’s family was affected by cancer and I know what she and her family went through during that time. I just want to help find a cure to be found for cancer.”

Leysi Espinel, freshman - “Pilar is my best friend. When she had cancer, I was little and I did not understand what was happening but I knew something was wrong. Cancer is hereditary in my family. I have family members that have had and dealt with cancer and the thought of it happening to me is scary.”

Kyler Hevia, senior and Relay for Life co-captain - “When I was in middle school, I participated in Relay for Life and I didn’t exactly know what Relay was. When I came to high school, I learned a lot more about the organization and I love how our team is such a close knit group. I pretty much relay for the stories of others and it motivates me to find a cure for cancer.”

Cancer affects us all Alexys Nowak STAFF WRITER

Every year, almost 13 million people around the globe are diagnosed with cancer. Nearly 8 million of these people lose their battle throughout the year. This disease is not one that affects only the elderly; it affects all people, no matter the age. At any moment in time, a simple doctor visit can turn into a changing point in one’s life.

The moment the words “you have cancer” come out of a doctor’s mouth, not only the patient, but the family, friends, teachers, and many more are impacted. The majority of the world knows of cancer but, in reality, have no clue what it can really do to a person. In PPCHS itself, there are many individual stories of battles won, lost, and hearts that have been touched forever.

Cancer has become so common that unfortunately almost everybody knows someone who has gone through it. Different forms of cancer have different effects on a person. However, physically, the toll on a patient’s body remains the same: harsh and tiring. The physical appearance of a person can change severely due to chemotherapy and radiation. Patients may go through periods of time where they gain or lose drastic amounts of weight and even lose their hair. Pilar Sanchez, a freshman at PPCHS, battled back and forth with cancer from the time she was in elementary school all the way up to sixth grade. She knows firsthand what cancer can do to the physical body.

“I liked losing my hair. I used to have pin straight hair but when it grew back it came in these crazy curls. People tell me they like it, so I don’t really mind,” explained

Fabiola Moleiro, junior and Relay for Life co-captain - “Cancer has been all over my family, including uncles, aunts and family friends. Relay for life is just a way to honor them and celebrate their lives. I don’t think any family should go through such a rough time with cancer.

Relay for Life is a great program to raise money for a cure for cancer.”

son from the rest of the world. While going through treatment, the patient is constantly at different hospitals that will benefit them Sanchez. the most. As a child, missing out on activiIn many cases, surgery is necessary in or- ties in school because you are in the hospider to rid the patient of cancer for good. tal does not sit well with growing personalSince nearly any part of the body can be ity and mind. Sanchez was in the hospital affected by this disease, there are a variety for a total of four years. She gives a perof surgeries that people endure. Some may sonal look on how it is for a child to be left require incisions that leave scars that will out of what could have been some of the forever rebest years main in of their that place. life.

This sur“I missed gery may out on bring one activities more than such as just pain: the Disney the change World trip in appearthat everyance of one looked that parforward ticular to in fifth area can grade,” occur too. says SanMrs. Torchez.

“I res, teachmade new er and friends in s p o n s o r Lost loved one: The Jaguar family remembers and honors Mariana Gonzalez, a the hosof Relay young jaguar who lost her life to cancer two years ago. Charter schools continue pital, but for Life to celebrate the life of beloved Mariana in relay events. Photo By: Alex Monge I drifted at PPCHS away from faced and beat thyroid cancer. After sur- a lot of my friends at school because I was gery to remove her thyroid gland, she was out so much.” left with a scar going across her neck.

While going through the hardships of this “My scar will be with me forever. I am disease, family and friends stand by their proud of it and it is part of my story,” says loved one through it all. Yes, the patient is Mrs. Torres. the one who is facing the treatment and batBesides the physical changes that cancer tling, but they are not the only ones affectpatients must face, there are mental and ed by the disease. Having to see someone social tolls to be surpassed as well. Being that they love and care about going through in and out of the hospital isolates the per- such a horrible thing is difficult for people

to see, to say the least. Knowing that all they can do is provide emotional support is key. The family member or friend’s mind can become consumed in thoughts such as ‘‘what can I do to make them feel better today?” No matter how upset they are that someone they care so much about is dealing with such a disease, they have to put a smile on their face.

Freshman Maria Osorio lost one of her best friends, Mariana Gonzalez, about two years ago to cancer. “Seeing one of my best friends suffer hurt me, but I had to act tough to be there for her. It affects the person who has cancer, but everyone around them is affected emotionally as well,” says Osorio.

Once someone has gone through cancer themselves or seen someone suffer through it, their life could be changed forever.

Whether they have a different outlook on life itself, or dedicate their time to helping others who are in need of support, they may never take simple things for granted again.

“Seeing Mariana go through everything made me a much more caring person. I do more things for other people now and always try to think positively,” Osorio said.

Cancer: the worldwide disease that takes a toll on millions of people every year.

Whether it is the patient being directly affected or their loved ones who are supporting them, there is no doubt that it is part of many people’s lives in some shape or form. The fact is, so many people are only slightly aware of just how serious something such as this disease is. While millions are affected, billions must know what really goes on in the lives of these fighters, supporters, and caregivers.

Students relay to find a cure Victoria Alvarez ENVIRONMENTAL/HEALTH EDITOR

“Celebrate. Remember. Fight Back.”

Known to more than four million people, this slogan has become famous in over 20 countries all because of one cause. Touching countless people’s lives, cancer has become apparent in society today, causing many to lose loved ones. This disease and the emotions it has triggered has brought forth the war for cancer-free lives. The battle against cancer has become a worldwide movement, with all warriors participating in an 18-hour event: American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life. A global phenomenon, this movement for a cure has pushed many people, including PPCHS students, to become a part of the fight.

It all began in May of 1985 when Dr. Gordy Klatt, a Tacoma colorectal surgeon, decided to raise money for the fight against cancer by running a marathon. According to relayforlife.org, Dr. Klatt spent an exhausting 24 hours running and walking around the track at Baker Stadium at the University of Puget Sound in Tacoma, eventually running about 83 miles. He raised money by asking those that wanted to join him for 30 minutes to donate or pay $25.00 to run alongside him. Dr. Klatt raised about $27,000 to fight cancer that day. Today, Relay for Life takes place in millions of different and diverse communities, with participants on separate teams to raise money for the American Cancer Society’s search for a cure. Tents, decorations, music, games, and food are present; participants stay up all night, doing their best to raise the money through sales and donations. Although Relay for Life has grown, matured, and changed since 1985, the foundation of the event remains the same: the search for a cure.

People join Relay for Life for different reasons, but it’s the cause that brings them all together. The PPCHS Relay for Life team is among the many teams that took part in the Pembroke Pines Relay for Life.

The PPCHS team became a family of students while raising over $8,000 in the effort to help find a cure.

“I’ve been a part of Relay for Life since I was in middle school,” said junior Bryan Wallace. “The experiences that I’ve had

captains junior Fabiola Moleiro and senior Kyler Hevia remember the night with happiness and smiles. “We spent hours and hours on decorations and preparations for Relay. We had so many great ideas for this year’s event and the night turned up better

Party like it’s 1999: The PPCHS Relay for Life team proudly holds up their banner to show their drive to fight for a cure. Photo by: Carli Stander

with both cancer and the actual Relay for Life event have definitely changed my life forever.”

There are students at PPCHS that have been impacted, hurt, and touched by cancer throughout their lifetimes. On the team, there are survivors, caregivers, and those that have watched loved ones battle the disease. No matter what their story or experience, all of the students have come together as one to support each other. The team members did everything in their power to work as a Jaguar family to have an amazing Relay for Life event; it turns out their hard work paid off.

After months of fundraising and preparation, the team was ready to participate in this year’s Relay for Life event, “Party like its 1999”, on Friday March 1st. Co-

than expected. We raised a large amount of money this year and all of the team members were so proud,” said Moleiro.

Hevia was also eager about the outcome of the event. “This year, we made sure to really inspire and pump up our team to raise money and come up with amazing ideas to help find a cure,” says Hevia. “Our 18-hour experience with Relay this year is surely one that we’ll all remember for years to come. There was no rain, no drama, and no mistakes were made. We worked hard for such an amazing night.”

The forecast was rainy and dreary on the night of Relay in the past two years; however, all the participants were overjoyed when the weather kept it together and allowed the event to continue on throughout a long- and extremely cold- but rainless

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Health / Environmental February/March 2013

night.

“Even though it was freezing cold and our whole team was bundled up in jackets and blankets, there’s not one part of that night that I would change. I had an amazing time with my friends and teachers as we laughed, cried, and kept each other strong,” said junior Nicolas Torres.

Out of all of the events that took place on the night of Relay, the most memorable for the PPCHS team was the Ms. Relay Pageant. This event allowed males from all teams to dress up as females and go on stage to participate in a pageant that would crown Ms. Relay. The PPCHS team sent junior Stephan Montes to be their candidate for the pageant. After stuffing and squeezing him into a white dress and a light pink sweater, the PPCHS team was ready to watch Stephan walk across the stage dressed as a female. When he was finally called up as “Gwen Stefani”, Stephan answered the questions asked in his most feminine voice and danced to a Taylor Swift song. The winner of the pageant was determined by which young “lady” raised the most money after a walk around the track while receiving donations in their purses. In the end, Stephan, or “Stefani”, was crowned Ms. Congeniality. PPCHS sophomore Raul Reyes, who participated on another team for Relay for Life, was crowned Ms. Relay 2013.

The PPCHS Relay for Life team created many memories on the cold Friday night at the Pembroke Pines Relay for Life event.

Not only did they raise a large sum of money and help make a difference to find a cure, but also they were able to become closer as a team and family. All in all, the cold weather, tasty snacks, smiles spread, and tears shed all brought pride to the PPCHS team who call this year’s Relay for Life a “huge success.”

Robin Roberts remarkably reaches recovery once again Gabriela Garcia FEATURES EDITOR

Five years ago, our country woke up to the traditional sunny line of “Good morning America!” However, nobody had expected to tune in to some heartbreaking news on such a beautiful day. “I have breast cancer,” breathed Robin Roberts, anchor on ABC’s Good Morning America.

A statement that shocked millions, Roberts’ announcement invited countless fans to embark on her long and difficult journey to recovery with her. Her breast cancer diagnosis was announced in August of 2007, and by January of 2008 Roberts was back on the show, full speed ahead. After months of surgeries, chemotherapy and long dark nights at the hospital, Roberts was back on her feet.

In mid-2012, Good Morning America received the thrilling news that they had finally beaten the Today show for the first time in 16 years. Unfortunately however, Roberts possessed mixed emotions on that day; that very same day, she was diagnosed with MDS. “Talk about your highs and

lows!” said Roberts.

MDS, also known as myelodysplastic syndrome, is a disease in the blood and bone marrow. In many cases, it is known as “pre-leukemia”. However, Roberts promises she is better than all of this.

“If you Google MDS, you may find some scary stuff, including statistics that my doctors insist don’t apply to me. They say I’m younger and fitter than most people who confront this disease and will be cured,” says Roberts in an interview.

Roberts found her older sister, Sally-Ann Roberts, to be her perfect bone marrow match; her sister has actively been her donor since June until now. Finally, after a long road of transplants, monitoring blood, and even quiet “dry runs” in the studio, Roberts will make her long-awaited comeback. America was inexplicably happy to see Roberts’ beaming, surviving smile waking them up on a fine Wednesday morning (February 20th, 2013).

“I couldn’t wait to return to my GMA fam-

ily. I knew that it was going to be an incredible morning in Times Square,” shares Roberts.

To say that Roberts has inspired many would be an understatement. Ever since 2007, when she found that malignant lump herself, she has promoted self-check breast examinations and regular mammograms and ultrasounds for women across the nation. Ever since her heart wrenching announcement in 2012, Roberts has caused “Be The Match” registry’s number in bone marrow donors to spike at an astonishingly jaw dropping 1,800%.

“It’s truly inspiring to see such a beautiful leader come out smiling after all of this,” says active Relay for Life member Nicole Batista (’14). “Robin Roberts is such a legendary woman, and it was a great sight to watch her on my television once again.”

As Roberts would say back in her 90’s ESPN Sportscenter days, you just have to “Go on with your bad self!”

PPCHS goes green to save animals Melissa Sullivan WEB MANAGING EDITOR

Throughout the week of Feb. 11 - 15, the PPCHS’s Animal Rights Club and Club Earth hosted the first ever campus-wide Vegan and Vegetarian week. Vegan/Vegetarian week is a national event held in the United States and countries such as Great Britain. Schools and organizations around the world participate, hoping to educate others on the meat-free diet and the benefits that can come with it.

According to People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA), 27 billion animals are slaughtered in the United States each year for food. In comparison, someone who follows a vegetarian diet can save approximately 100 animals from slaughter.

To provide more information to students about the healthy and animal friendly lifestyle of a vegan/vegetarian, both clubs prepared banners that were hanged around

school. Both clubs also set up informational tables during both A and B lunches, where they welcomed new members and educated students on the lifestyle of vegans and vegetarians.

In PETA’s Meat’s not Green video, the conclusions of different researchers have been put together. In the video, it is stated that Researchers at the University of Chicago have concluded that “switching from a standard American diet to a vegan diet is more effective in the fight against climate change than switching from a standard American car to a hybrid.”

During the eco-friendly week, students and administration participated in the PPCHS clubs’ efforts to save animals and the environment by purchasing meat-free meals provided by the school cafeteria.

Some meals included vegan chili, vegetarian wraps and a variety of different soups.

Dr. Glenn, sponsor of Club Earth said,

“The students did a lot of P.R. work by decorating banners and signs for the cafeteria, it was completely their idea and I backed them one hundred percent.”

Students in the Advanced Placement Environmental Science (APES) class also participated in vegetarian/vegan week by learning eco-friendly methods of farming and tracking their daily diets. Students participated in a green challenge where it was optional to pursue a vegan or vegetarian during the week and create a food log.

APES teacher Mrs. Haviland said, “Throughout the week we discussed different agricultural methods and how the industry is becoming political. We also watched different sections of Food Inc. (a movie describing today’s agricultural crisis) and read several articles on the food and agricultural industry.”

Thanks to the Animal Rights club and Club Earth, the first ever vegan/vegetarian

Breast Cancer and MDS Survivor: GMA’s Robin Roberts is healthy and ready to resume her career.

Graphic by: Julian Graves

week proved to be a huge success and has started a new trend amongst Jaguar students. Several PPCHS students can now be found following a diet free of greasy hamburgers and fried chicken. Hopefully, this event will be a new healthy tradition at Charter and continue for years to come.

Veggies: Many PPCHS students are embracing the new “green” way for their lives. Photo by: Jp Dussan

Sports February/March 2013

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Splashing and smashing to the top: Most promising student athletes

Gaby Cabeza-

Alex Martinek-

Karli Cash-

Blake Kelly-

High expectations for the water polo players are in gear. One senior, Gabriela Cabeza, an established veteran player for her position as goalie on the team, hopes for the best. The story of this experienced player dates back to eighth grade when her swimming and current coach asked her to play for the water polo team in her freshmen year.

“At first, I was a little scared because I heard it was a violent sport,” Gabriela said.

She entered the team in her freshman year; a few months later, she realized she enjoyed the sport more than swimming. This goalie is glad that her coach and her dad pushed her to try new things. Even in the times she has wanted to end her water polo career, her family and coach have been there for her until the end.

“Last season, just before our District Championship, [my dad] sat me down when I was feeling really low and told me how proud he was of me and how far I’d come since freshman year; I’ll never forget him crying when we won districts.”

Sports are a great way to make new friends and learn responsibility and leadership.

This has encouraged Gaby to stay on the team in her senior year aside from her interest in the sport. A new freshman class will bring some unfamiliar faces to the team.

“I’m excited to see the new freshman come out and want to join. I know when I was a freshman I was a bit apprehensive, but any student that puts themselves out there won’t be disappointed, just as I wasn’t,” Gabriela added.

This senior leader hopes on getting farther in the competition than ever before. She remembers how last year the team lost almost all their starters and wants to change that. Last year she was named an honorable mention by the Miami Herald and she hopes to make the First Team this year.

Alex Martinek has been playing tennis for more than six years. He credits his father, who was a college tennis player, with getting him into tennis. With much experience, it is no wonder Alex is the top ranked boy on the team as just a freshman, when there are currently 7 boys on the varsity tennis team. His powerful forehand and strong 100-120 mph serves guide him in his matches.

Alex said, “I need to work on my backhand. I’ve switched from a two-handed backhand to a one-handed one.” Surely, he strives to get better every day and will do spectacular things as he continues to improve.

The tennis team’s toughest local competition includes Belen Jesuit and St. Thomas Aquinas. The long road is just beginning for the boy’s tennis team, but with Alex Martinek as their young leader, the future is bright.

Karli Cash is ranked first on the girls’ the tennis team. Cash is only a sophomore and she is tearing up her competition, one set at a time.

Her coach motivates her to perform to her best ability.

Cash started playing when she was only five years old. “No one really pushed me to play tennis,” said Cash. “I just wanted to play because it looks really interesting.” As the years passed, her skills have grown and developed her into the tennis player she is today.

“I love the competitiveness of tennis and the grind for each point,” said Cash. “I get my drive from my coach.”

She has to win the districts before she can move on to anything else, though. It will be a tough journey, but Karli Cash is ready for the challenge.

Cash is considering going to the University of Southern Florida. But for now, she is focusing on her high school team. “My teammates are awesome,” said Cash. “We will play to win.”

Blake Kelly is just a junior on the water polo team. His performance in the water is a key to the team’s success. He started playing water polo as a freshman and has been playing ever since.

“I like how [water polo] is a real team game,” said Kelly. “In water polo, everyone has to work together in order to win.”

Kelly wants to make it back to states so he can share the feeling of making it far with his teammates and hopefully becoming state champions. Coach Luis pushes Kelly and the team to play to the best of their abilities and make it far in the post season.

“We need to work on conditioning,” said Kelly. “The better conditioned we are, the longer we can stay in the game. We also need to come together more.”

Kelly and the water polo team are playing to finish the quest they started last year. Winning states is the goal for any athlete, and the PPCHS water polo team hopes to accomplish that goal.

Senior, water polo

Freshman, tennis

Junior, tennis

Junior, water polo

Most promising spring atheletes: Athletes Gaby Cabeza (‘13), Alex Martinek (‘16), Karli Cash (‘14), and Blake Kelly (‘14) all contribute to the tennis and waterpolo programs at Charter. Photo by: Carli Stander

Jaguars ready to defend state title Season ends for PCB Troy Bottom NEWS EDITOR

While many programs usually slowly deLast year when the Lady Jags softball team velop their players through their system sealed the deal and captured Pines Char- before they hit the clay, the Jags just play ter’s first sports team state title, they simul- the best talent, no matter the age. And this taneously painted a target on their backs method has been paying off big time. Febthat teams all across the sunshine state ruary 7th, the team opened up their season have been waiting all off-season to take with a double header against Stranahan down. No longer will Pines Charter be the high school. After a celebratory first pitch underdog, but the power house team of the by Principal Peter Bayer, the Jags got to state. When one sees that they are sched- work with freshman pitcher Claire Blount, uled to play the defending state champs, a who dominated the dragons from the start. heightened sense of effort will be put out to The Lady Jags dominated both games with take down the best. With some key starters senior captain Victoria Gonzalez, hitting graduated and off to college, many people three home runs in the second game, breakquestion if the Lady Jags can maintain ing a Broward County record. their elite status.

“We just have to But with a young stay thirsty and and energetic team want success as led by Head Coach much as we wantTom Fadul, the ed it last year if we Jaguars are anxare going to domiious to prove to the nate once again,” state that they’re commented the 1st ready to return to baseman Victoria the top again in the Gonzalez.

2013 season.

Gonzalez commitFor their first preted before the start season game they Softball: PPCHS girls’ softball season is getting under- of the season to got to play the al- way. Photo Donated by Yearbook Staff Palm Beach Atlanways consistent tic, and senior outSt.Thomas Aquinas. St. Thomas arrived fielder Cheyenne Wileford will be heading with an intimidating roster of close to 40 to Indian River. Both seniors showed off girls and almost doubled the size of the their talents in their second game of the Jags roster. It was a tough challenge to start season, where the Jags shut out McArthur the year but Pines Charter came out victo- high school on their own turf. Along with rious with a uplifting 2-0 win.

Wileford and Gonzalez, juniors Bridget “A lot of people were skeptical of how we Blount, Courtney Dart, and Jamie Gonzawould bounce back from last year with our lez all have started strong in the field and youth but our leaders have been working at the plate. hard to toughen up the team and get them The season seems bright for the Jags if they ready for St. Thomas’s and other solid pro- can ignore the critics, get down to busigrams on our schedule,” junior catcher Ja- ness, and do what they do best: play ball. mie Gonzalez commented.

Jacob Isenberg STAFF WRITER

The Jaguars’ loss to the Norland Vikings Tuesday night may have ended their season, but it does not take away from the success they achieved all year. They lost to a very tough Vikings team by a score of 8059, although the score is not indicative of how close the game really was. The Jags were always in striking distance early of the lead, but let the game slip away from them in the second half.

The 2012-2013 boys’ basketball team will go down as one of the all-time great teams in Charter history, sweeping their way through their district en route to a second straight district title. They finished with a record of 19-4 and were undefeated in their district.

“It was an unbelievable season, and it was unfortunate that it had to end,” said senior center Wade Meade. “I wish the team could have gone out with a bigger bang, but it was a great ride.”

The future still looks bright for PCB, as they are expecting the return of three of their starters. Adam ‘Prince’ Ali, Hannif Cheatham, and Marcel Denbow—all soph-

omores—will be anchoring what looks to be another solid team next year.

“We had such a young team this year, I know they are going to have a lot of success next year,” stated Meade. “They have a chance to do next year what our team could not do.”

This past basketball season will be remembered not only by the players, but also by the fans. This year’s team brought the Charter fans together at home games, rallying the students with their highlight dunks and thrilling wins. Every home game was a packed house, with students usually having to wait at the door for a chance to see the Jags in action.

“As a fan and announcer, it was a blast watching the Jags make plays, and to see the gym get so electric,” said senior Omari White. “I’m going to miss watching them, but I know the future is bright for this team for years to come.”

White’s sentiment echoed a collective agreement among PPCHS students. Although this team may have lost in regional semifinals this year, many students are looking forward to a possible run at the state title for next year.

PCB: The varsity basketball team gathers together as a family in their last game. Photo by: Gaby Cabeza

Sibling rivalries in sports Jake Dreilinger STAFF WRITER

All throughout the history of sports, some of the most anticipated games, other than each sport’s championship game, are those where siblings have to face each other. It’s these sibling rivalries that fuel a team’s desire to win, especially for that sibling.

Coaches and players motivate their team so they can prove who the better sibling is.

No matter which sport is being watched, sibling rivalries are everywhere.

Perhaps one of the most recognized sibling coaches in the NFL, Jim and John Harbaugh are great at their jobs. Jim is the coach of the San Francisco 49ers, and was a quarterback for the Chicago Bears, Indianapolis Colts, Baltimore Ravens, and San Diego Chargers. John is the coach of the Baltimore Ravens, and was never an NFL player, but a college and NFL coach. Each brother successfully coached their teams to the NFL playoffs where they eventually played each other. This game wasn’t any ordinary game. It was the NFL Super Bowl. After a close game fueled by this brother rivalry, John and the Baltimore Ravens were the winner. This will hopefully not be the last time they face each other. These brothers are always exciting to watch.

“My favorite sibling rivalry is the Harbaugh rivalry,” said junior Derick Garcia.

“They are one of the older rivalries in sports and are used to the game.”

The Ryan brothers, Rex and Rob, are not as well-known as the Harbaugh brothers.

Rex is the head coach of the New York Jets, while Rob was just fired as defensive coordinator of the Dallas. They share a love-hate relationship that only these brothers could ever possess. Both started out as defensive coordinators, and both are known for their astonishing defense. This sibling rivalry isn’t always the greatest, but it is a good one, no doubt about it.

Probably the most famous and well-known brothers in football are the Manning brothers, Eli and Peyton. They are the sons of Archie Manning, a quarterback back in the 1970-80s for the Minnesota Vikings, Houston Oilers, and New Orleans Saints. Peyton was the quarterback for the Indianapolis Colts and is now the quarterback for the Denver Broncos. Eli is the quarterback for the New York Giants. Peyton lead the Colts to one Super Bowl win, while Eli lead the Giants to two Super Bowl wins. Peyton,

who recently came off of four neck surgeries, won Comeback Player of the Year at the NFL awards ceremony. These brothers always put on a show for their fans, and both are elite quarterbacks. Whether it’s on the field or in T.V. commercials, these brothers are always going at it, ready to

plays for the Memphis Grizzles. Pau is a four time NBA All-Star and has two NBA Championships. Marc hasn’t been on any All-Star teams nor has he won any Championships. Both of these brothers come together to play on Spain’s Olympic Basketball Team, an honor not many people have.

“The Gasols are my favorite sibling rivalry because they are similar in many ways,” says sophomore Noah Levy. “They were drafted into the same position, and people don’t really appreciate their rivalry.”

Sibling rivalries also fuel some sports at PPCHS. Junior brothers Jason and Jordan de Leon both play football but have never played together. Jordan is the running back for the PPCHS boys’ football team. Jason plays the American version, soccer, as a left wing forward. Next year will be Jordan’s fourth year playing football. Next year will be Jason’s first trying out in American football. Jason will become the new kicker for the team, using his soccer skills to help him out.

“I’ll kick well because I practice a lot,” said Jason. “I know some good kicking strategies.” While Jordan is used to the pressure of playing football, Jason still has a lot to learn for playing the game.

The longest field goal he has attempted was 47 yards out. The Rivalries at PPCHS: Junior brothers Jordan and push these brothers will give Jason de Leon play football together on the PPCHS each other next year is worthy of Football team. Photo by: Natalia Cevallos watching out for.

Two of three triplets, juniors prove who the better quarterback is.

Andre and Lucas Bautista are both soccer Venus and Serena Williams are both ex- players for the varsity boys’ soccer team. tremely competitive tennis players, who They play forward left wing and midfield. have gone up against each other many Although they were born in America, times. These sister rivals come with a Andre and Lucas’s family is from Bratwist, though. In singles they are rivals, zil. “Since I’m Brazilian, playing soccer but in doubles they compete together and feels like the right thing to do,” said Luhave won 21 Doubles Titles and 13 Grand cas. They started playing soccer at around Slam Doubles Titles. Venus Williams has age six. “We are teammates who can play won 44 Singles Titles and 7 Grand Slam together,” said Lucas. “We don’t consider Single’s Titles, while Serena has won 45 ourselves rivals. At times we work together Singles Titles and 15 Grand Slam Titles. well.”

These sisters are very close and they fuel Sibling rivalries fuel a fan’s desire to pay one another to play even better. attention to sports and watch to see which Pau Gasol and his brother Marc moved to the better sibling is. It is always fun to Memphis from Barcelona, Spain. As they watch siblings go at it, as it reminds us of got older, Pau went to the NBA and is now our life growing up. It will remain a vital playing for the Los Angeles, while Marc part of sports for generations to come.

Jaguars acquire new territory with a new stadium Jake Dreilinger STAFF WRITER

PPCHS has never had an outdoor sporting venue to call its own; the games were always held at nearby Flanagan high school.

It took away the feeling of school identity because the games were never played on our home field. All that is about to change.

Last year, PPCHS was awarded a football stadium replacing the field where most of our teams could only practice on. This multimillion dollar project was expected to start December of 2012, but got postponed.

Finally, the stadium began going under construction on Presidents Day. Construction is expected to end before the summer

is over in time for the 2013 fall season.

The new football stadium will have new turf for the football team, and a four-lane rubber track for the track team. The field will be lined for the soccer and football team, so both teams can play there. Lacrosse can also play in the stadium. Until the end of this year, teams which have used the field will be moved across the street to practice. Physical education classes will also be able to use the new stadium next year.

“The new stadium will be nice for the football team,” said athletic director and

New Stadium: Students at PPCHS are anxiously waiting for the new stadium to be built. Photo by: Johmi Vargas

head track coach Steve Bruns. “The field wasn’t in great condition and on rainy days, the team would have to practice in the gym. It will benefit the football team if they have a place to practice that is in good condition.”

The stadium was supposed to hold 2,000 people. In order to save money, the stadium will now only hold 1,500 people. Many of the things inside the venue will remain the same as planned, including a concession stand and a ticket booth.

For the rest of the school year, students and faculty will be asked to not go on or near the field. The field will be off limits, but the car line that starts near the field will be unaffected. It is uncertain whether the parking lot will be changed during the summer.

Overall, this new stadium will impact the school for the better and will become a new symbol for our school. Many students have positive feelings toward the new stadium.

“I feel good about the new stadium,” said sophomore Damien Charles. “More college coaches are coming to watch us and more fans are coming as well. The stadium will be important to our sports program.”

The closer the stadium gets to completion, the more anxious PPCHS students and faculty will get. What will the stadium look like? How will this affect our school? Only time will tell

9 Sports

February/March 2013

The CHAT Editorials: MJ – greatest of alltime – turns 50 Brett Alayon STAFF WRITER

Widely regarded as the greatest basketball player of all time, Michael Jordan celebrated his 50th on Sunday, February 1st.

Even during the most exhilarating basketball weekend of the NBA season (All-Star break), the hot topic is in fact MJ. Always in the spotlight, MJ is still fighting many battles. He took shots at Bryon Russell and Pat Riley in his Hall of Fame speech, and even recently slighted LeBron James in his best season ever by saying he would take Kobe Bryant over him. He has refused to simply sit back and be satisfied as the best player of all time. That competitive fire is still burning, and people love him for it.

Not many people know this, but Jordan didn’t even make his high school basketball team as a freshman. After getting accepted into the University of North Carolina as one of the top recruits in the nation, he shined. In just his first year at the collegiate level, MJ hit a game-winning shot in the National Championship game. That’s just one year in college; his NBA career amazed us even more.

Michael Jordan and the Chicago Bulls went to the NBA finals six times and won six times. In those six trips, Jordan won the Finals MVP award six times. Perhaps the most astonishing aspect of winning these six championships was the fact that after winning three, MJ retired from basketball to play baseball. Following his two seasons playing minor league ball, MJ returned to his beloved sport and hoisted the trophy three more times. Many believe it would be more than likely MJ could’ve won eight titles in a row if he didn’t go to baseball.

Sophomore Alex Orta said, “It’s easy for teenagers to say LeBron is the best of all time. We never saw MJ play. But I can say this, teenagers nowadays are completely wrong.”

Ever heard the phrase “Be like Mike.”?

Well this phrase does indeed relate to the one and only Michael Jordan. Being “like Mike” certainly wouldn’t be a bad thing as MJ set over 10 individual NBA records, most of them related with points because of his scoring ability. One of his most impressive records has to be his 33.4 points per game average over his career in the playoffs. Jordan was born with the “clutch” gene, plain and simple. He hit game-winning shot after game-winning shot, breaking his opponent’s hearts game after game, season after season in the playoffs. Chicago Bulls fans had it good for a really long time.

Jordan was and still is a world-wide phenomenon. He appeared in the famous movie Space Jam in which he competed on the court with cartoon characters. MJ won the slam dunk contest twice, something that had never happened before him. The #2 pick in this year’s NBA draft, Michael Kidd-Gilchrist, admitted losing to MJ oneon-one. That’s right, a half a century yearold man beat one of the youngest and talented top draft picks.

Sophomore Anthony Garcia said, “I cannot believe MJ beat Kidd-Gilchrist one-onone. I guess Jordan will always have that feel for the game.”

So this weekend we were lucky enough to celebrate the greatest basketball player of all time, it’s important to look back and remember what he gave us for so many years. The NBA and the basketball world will never be the same. Happy 50th, Mike.

Graphic by: Julian Graves

Sports

10

Most disliked athletes

San Francisco area is now a tarnished ball player whose career is shattered by allegations and an ultimate conclusion that his Troy Bottom MLB record of 762 homeruns, are tainted NEWS EDITOR with performance enhancing drugs and With freakish talents, skills, and god gifted steroids. Many feel his record should be size, men and women rise from local as- erased and that his place as Major League piring athletes to national celebrities. With Baseball’s all-time homerun leader is just this they are constantly in the spotlight, on an insult to honest, drug-free sluggers in talk shows, reality shows and televisions the name of Hank Aaron and Babe Ruth. across the nation for the public to see. 4. Next on our list is 34 year old shootThis fame comes at a cost, an almost see- ing guard of the Los Angeles Lakers, Kobe through lifestyle that allows the world to Bryant. Kobe is a very talented athlete has know anything and everything they are do- won a handful of NBA championships and ing. One’s personal life is not so personal put his name in the history books among anymore and with this comes the dislike the best players to ever play the game.

But back 10 years ago his fans and supporters were shocked to see news footage of their superstar in custody at a Colorado police station.

Bryant was arrested in connection Graphic by: Armando Urena. Poll By Sports Staff of 200 students from PPCHS. to a sexual as assault case with a 19-year-old hotel employee. Bryant and hatred from fans.

“I think these days of professional athlet- later admitted to sexual relations with the ics are so different from back when Barry woman but says it was consensual. The acSanders played or even Michael Jordan,” cuser eventually dropped the rape charges said sophomore Kevin Gonzalez. “You but Bryant’s reputation has forever been didn’t have twitter or Instagram to get linked to this accusation. into those athletes lives, now there are 3. Following in the next spot is an athtweet stations in the middle of the NFL lete who was in his prime in the NFL and Pro Bowl. You just get to know someone’s quickly dropped from an idol to villain. thoughts better in this era and so naturally Quarterback of the Atlanta Falcons at the time, Michael Vick, became a publicly hatmore people dislike them.”

But even one’s odd or unpopular personal- ed figure for his personal entertainment of ity could not get an athlete to be deemed in dog fighting. Pictures released by various the top 5 disliked players of all time. After news stations of dog fighting arenas and a recent poll done at Pines Charter, here are wounded pit bulls appalled citizens and fans across the nation. Vick served a 23 the results and thoughts of 200 students: 5. Fifth on the list is retired slugger, out- month sentence in prison and despite his fielder Barry Bonds. The once hero in the return to the NFL has been a semi-success,

February/March 2013

his fan base or supporters will never be the same.

2. Our next two athletes have been more recent and definitely two of the most chastised, criticized, and in some cases hated athletes that have competed. At number two on our list is golfer Tiger Woods. Eldrick Tont "Tiger" Woods, was on top of the world. On pace to becoming the best golfer in the history of the sport, Tiger had endorsements from companies like Nike, Gatorade, and even his own video game series. All this stardom crashed, literally, on November 29th of 2009, when his SUV hit a fire hydrant and tree outside his mansion in Orlando. What was thought to be a simple car crash to the public started to unravel day by day to a sex scandal with more than 13 women from all over. An idol family man and established athlete publically embarrassed himself, family, and wife who divorced Tiger in a settlement worth close to 750 million dollars. Tiger has returned to the sport of golf and is winning again but hasn’t returned to the same caliber of play that he left the game with.

1. The most recent and the #1 most disliked athlete on our list is professional cycling icon, Lance Armstrong. The face of cycling for the early 2000’s, Armstrong dominated cycling and took the world by storm as really the first American to dominate at the national level. He won a record of 7 Tour de France victories. This is a feat in by itself, but Armstrong won the hearts of Americans with the story of not only winning 7 titles, but overcoming testicular cancer. Sponsored by nearly every major cooperation in the country, Armstrong started the Livestrong foundation to raise money for cancer awareness and trademarked the famous yellow Livestrong bracelets.

Slowly after his career came to an end, investigations arose about possible illegal doping. Armstrong consistently denied the allegations in public, on talk shows, and over social media. But finally the story broke, with former teammates and doctors releasing information about Armstrong’s blood doping past and use of performance enhancing drugs. The proof was too big for Lance to fight and he came out and admitted to using these performance enhancing substances. His claim is that “everyone was doing it” and explained his side and made his many apologies on a worldwide covered interview with Oprah Winfrey. The Tour de France committee stripped Lance of his titles. The board of the Livestrong foundation removed Lance from the company he helped start. He gave so much hope to so many cancer patients fighting as he battled cancer and not only won the battle, but international competitions. But he is the most disliked athlete for this, for gaining the love from fans who believed Lance did this all with pure honest hard work. His lie shattered many loyal supporters for the icon.

Everyone has the dreams to be famous and to be known; as a professional athlete this opportunity is available but with fame and glory, once again, comes the glass-like structure of their lives where everything can and will be seen by the public.

NASCAR takes off with a woman out front Melissa Sullivan WEB MANAGING EDITOR

year’s race due to a wreck, he claimed the title as the winner in Daytona this year, Every February, thousands of eager race making a big impact at the start of the fans flock to Daytona, Florida for the first season. scheduled race of the NASCAR season.

“I came so close a year ago,” said SauThis year, dedicated race fans were greeted ter. “That was a tough one to swallow. It’s by a major change in the NASCAR lineup so much luck to be able to win here. It’s for the start of the season when, for the first tough to put it together. I can’t believe time in Sprint Cup racing history, a woman I’m in victory lane at Daytona,” reported was voted to start in the pole.

Truck Series.

Throughout the week, pre-season races The following day, racers in the Nationwere held at the Daytona International wide series took their marks at the startSpeedway, all of which would lead to the ing line and prepared themselves for a main races on the weekend. From Feb. long race ahead. The race ran slowly, wit22 - 24, the Camping World truck series, nessing several cautions and large wrecks Nationwide, and Sprint Cup were held. On that included numerous cars. During the Friday evening, drivers took their places in last lap of the race, attending fans were the lineup and roared their engines to mark spectators to a massive wreck including the start of the race. The trucks ran well, twelve cars. Kyle Larson’s Chevrolet reaching speeds of up to 200 miles per hour (#32) became airborne, sending a tire throughout the evening. The #98 Toyota and parts of his engine over the barrier truck, driven by 34- year-old Johnny Sau- and into the stands. “I was watching the re-runs of the race and couldn’t believe what I saw. The race seemed like it was going so well when out of nowhere the car flipped and flew up into the air,” said sophomore Christopher Ansbaugh.

According to NASCAR, 28 fans were injured; two were reportedly in critical condition. Driver Tony Stewart ended up taking the first place title after dodging the large Speeding cars: The crowd watches the race cars speed around the track in collision which left Daytona, FL. Photo donated by: Melissa Sullivan part of Larson’s engine ter, took the first place win at Daytona in burning through the metal barrier which the truck series. After starting in twenty was intended to blockade the grand fifth and failing to take the home in last stands from the track.

"The important thing is what's going on to claim the first place title when five-time in the frontstretch right now, we've always Cup winner, Jimmie Johnson (#48), made known since racing was started that it is a his way to the front in the last lap, taking dangerous sport. We assume that risk. It's the first win of the season. Danica ended up hard when the fans get caught up in it,” taking eighth place, still breaking history Stewart told NASCAR reporters. and drawing more woman spectators to the After the incident on Saturday, Daytona predominantly male sport. workers scrambled to repair the damaged “It’s amazing that Danica was able to acfence in time for the start of the main race, the Sprint Cup series Daytona 500. At 1:30 p.m. racers took their positions as the announcer said, “Drivers and Danica start your engines.” Spectators watched anxiously as they awaited history to take place. Danica Female racecar driver: Patrick accomplished her many goals at this year’s Daytona 500.

Patrick (#10) Graphic by: Julain Graves made history Sunday afternoon when she was the complish her goal of leading a lap, she is first woman in NASCAR Sprint Cup his- the first woman in history to do so. She is tory to start first in the pole. Unfortunately, an inspiration to women everywhere and is Danica was unable to hold the first place proof that we can do anything men can do, position when long time racer, Jeff Gordon if not better,” said junior Lori Johnson. (#24) passed her during the first lap of the Although there were several collisions Daytona 500. She later bounced back and and mistakes that occurred, NASCAR wityet again made history by being the first nessed a great start to the season during woman to lead a lap in NASCAR’s top rac- the races in Daytona in late February. With ing series. more action and a new group of fans, the During the last lap, she was in a solid third season is definitely going to be an amazplace, hoping to make her way to the front ing one. Driver Danica Patrick made hisof the pack and take the win. After lead- tory and is sure to stay in the headlines for ing several laps and reaching speeds of up years to come with her tenacious attitude to 200 miles per hour, Danica was unable and racing skills.

The National Rifle Association: Friend or Foe? David Nabors SPORTS EDITOR

In the year 2012 alone, there took place seven mass shootings in which at least five people were killed. While overall gun violence has technically declined since the early part of the last decade, the events of the recent mass shootings, from Aurora to Newtown, have resonated with the American people and have exposed the urgent need for new ways to curb gun violence in the country. Debate about how to effectively do so has been an ongoing struggle.

Front and center in the deliberation has been the nonprofit National Rifle Association (NRA). An organization that by definition promotes the rights of American citizens to bear arms, among other things, the NRA has been heavily scrutinized by the media as they have aggressively opposed portions of President Obama’s proposed gun control legislation.

One Kansas City sports columnist, in light of the Jovan Belcher murder-suicide, infamously said that “the NRA is the new KKK.” A recent ad run by the NRA called President Obama “an elitist hypocrite” for scoffing at executive vice president, Wayne LaPierre’s, idea of armed security in every school even though the president’s daughters attend a school with a team of several armed guards. Obama has also not been shy about criticizing the NRA, as he has indirectly accused them in his speeches of not having the best interests of the safety of

the American people at hand.

“Already we’re seeing pundits, politicians, and special interest lobbyists warning of a tyrannical, all-out assault on lib-

massive influence cannot be diminished.

Membership since the new gun control measures have been introduced, especially the assault weapons ban, has skyrocketed and the NRA can now boast approximately 4.5 million members.

“I think they play an important part in our society by protecting our rights to bear arms as citizens and protect ourselves,” said senior Alejandro Cerna, speaking of the NRA. “I think guns are necessary and shouldn’t be banned. They can’t be banned anyway because people will get them either way. The best way to prevent Graphic by: Armando Urena tragedies is to eduerty -- not because it’s true, but because cate ourselves about guns and gun safety it gins up fear, or higher ratings, or more and make sure they don’t get in the wrong revenue for themselves,” said the president hands. I think that’s what the NRA is all in a press conference. about.”

The NRA is a polarizing group but its Demonized by some and hailed by others,

11 News

February 2013

the NRA has been condemned by many who want to see certain types of firearms banned. The right to ownership of guns, throughout the course of American history, has been one of the staples of culture as well as a founding principle of the republic. The Second Amendment in the Bill of Rights recognizes the right of citizens to bear arms and while most agree the right is not absolute in all cases, most Americans believe that it is one of the main protections for the people against tyranny.

“The Second Amendment is extremely important to me,” said senior Colt McKinney, whose family are longtime NRA members. “I agree with the push for stricter gun control because it’s ridiculous that we’re having all of these shootings by mentally unstable individuals. I agree with certain parts that are about making background checks more thorough, but I don’t believe that limits on magazines or an assault weapons ban will do anything to solve the problem.”

Perhaps some think, legitimately, that the NRA goes overboard at times. Others might disagree with their positions on banning the sale of high-capacity magazines.

Agree or not, the tremendous power and following that the NRA now holds cannot be diminished, and anyone who actively seeks to obstruct their agenda will likely find it a formidable challenge.

PPCSS raises the bar for SACS committee

What is the Future of PPCHS?

Angelique Berkowitz ENTERTAINMENT EDITOR

Jacob Isenberg STAFF WRITER

to inquire about becoming an accredited school system by applying to the SouthLately, the recent buzz around campus ern Association of Colleges and Schools has been about the upcoming SACS visit to Council on Accreditation and School Imour school for a District Accreditation. The provement (SACS CASI). After doing so, accreditation process takes place March the PPCS system received a commitment 3-6. Five team members of the Southern letter stating that the seven schools were Association of Colleges and Schools will candidates for district accreditation. A be present at our school as well as the other steering committee was then formed which Pembroke Pines Charter School campuses, began to plan for the visit. The committee including the Central Campus Elementary began to ask for recommendations from and Middle School, the East Campus El- stakeholders and gather input from support ementary School, Florida State University staff, campus principals, email corresponElementary School, and the West Campus dence, and stakeholder surveys. The input Elementary and Middle School. For the that they received then helped them to crefirst time, all of the Pines Charter campus- ate strategic goals and initiatives for the es will be reviewed within a single district success of our school. rather than a separate district. The District In order to get ready for the highly anAccreditation process will include system ticipated visit in early March, students interviews, stakeholder interviews, and ob- have been preparing during their weekly servations all conducted by the five team TEAM sessions conducted in their third members. period class. They’ve been exposed to sevFor those of you who are unaware, an eral PowerPoint presentations explaining accreditation is a voluntary process that the process of the District accreditation examines the effectiveness of an academ- as well as sample questions that may be ic institution based on high educational asked if they were to be pulled out of class. standards, as stated in the PowerPoint pre- Even though the student interviews will sentations presented during TEAM in the be selected randomly, all students must be recent weeks. There are a rigorous set of prepared to answer any questions asked. protocols that must be followed throughout Each student should have background the accreditation process which is solely a knowledge of the school mission stateresearch based process. The main goal is ment, school achievements, the school’s to help ensure continuous improvement for strengths and weaknesses, leadership opour school which is something that we as a portunities and involvement for students, school hope to gain from the process. and the school’s expectations for learning “The review process is a lot of work, and instructional methods. but it is well worth the effort. I am espe“Having officials present at our school is cially glad to see the Pines Charter system a bit nerve wracking,” says senior Alexis Good. “We’ve never really been exposed to anything like this before; however, I feel that our teachers and administration are doing a great job in helping us to prepare for the visit. I learned a lot from all of the PowerPoint presentations I’ve been shown.”

On Tuesday March 5th, the school visits and review will take place. Students should be prepared for anything they may be asked and SACS: The Southern Associate of Colleges and Schools will be visiting contribute to the success of PPCHS and the rest of the PPCSS for evaluations. Photo By Alex Monge our school. “I don’t think becoming accredited as a district, because we have anything to worry about,” says we truly are, and always have been, a K-12 sophomore Nicole Scort. “The Pembroke community,” says Principal Bayer.

Pines Charter School system is a great sysIn November of 2010, the Pembroke tem that I’m proud to be a part of; this will Pines Charter Schools made the decision always be my home.”

There has recently been much talk about the future of the Pembroke Pines Charter system, and where funding for students will come from. Two town hall style meetings have been held in the PPCHS auditorium to address such concerns, with huge turnouts coming from concerned parents of students.

This budget debate is not a new one—it has been going on for years now. The funding per student per year has been on the decline since the 2007-2008 school year.

Five years ago, Charter schools received $7,416, but as of the 2012-2013 school year, the school received only $6,452.

This is a difference of $964 per students, and over $5.4 million in total according to Mary Jordan, Development director for the PPCSS. “The next few months are going to be critical because the legislation in Tallahassee will be making key decisions concerning education,” said Principal Mr. Bayer. “I will relay all information I receive to parents as soon as I get it.”

The Pembroke Pines Mayor, Frank Ortis,

ford to build a $2.5 dollar stadium, while also being short on funds. The reason for this is that the funding for this park comes from a different “pot” of money that cannot be used for education. It comes from the parks and recreation fund, which will be paying for the entire stadium. The stadium will be Charter’s to use, but many other youth organizations will have access to the

“We deserve as much funding as any other school.” field, the same way they have access to the pool, tennis courts, and outdoor basketball courts.

Governor Rick Scott has provided hope that Charter will receive more funding in the future. Scott has promised to increase the school budget by $1.2 billion, increasing the annual school budget to $10.7 billion. He has also expressed his desire to increase per-student funding and the investment in our teachers.

What is next for PPCHS: Two town meetings was held to discuss the school’s future. Parents and students gathered to discuss our school’s economic situation. Photo by: Johmi Vargas

will be traveling to Tallahassee during this time to help lobby for funds. Other members of the school board and community will also be active in talking to their representatives to try and receive the most funds possible.

Many students and parents have also seemed confused as to how Charter can af-

“We deserve as much funding as any other school,” said Jarrett Collins. “The education I receive here is top notch.”

Our city and our school are going to fight as hard as they can to ensure our school gets the funding it deserves. Until then, Charter will continue to fundraise and use their dollars wisely.

News

February/March 2013

12

Joshua Alleman MANAGING EDITOR-LAYOUT

Mandiant, a U.S. cyber security company, stated that a Chinese military unit may have been behind a series of cyber attacks; China’s government denied the accusation and said that the Chinese military does not engage in cyber attacks. Mandiant reports that the People’s Liberation Army’s Shanghai-based Unit 61398 was the most likely source of the hacking or other harmful computer network operations.

Unit 61398—a group located in Shanghai’s Pudong district whose work is considered to be a state secret by China—was believed to have carried out sustained attacks on many different industries. It is believed that because Unit 61398 is located in China’s financial and banking hub, it may contain thousands of people who are proficient in English, computer programming, and network operations.

“Since China is a global superpower, they have the resources and ability to hack pretty much anything they want to. The part that interests me is what kind of data they stole and the pure scale of the operation; taking hundreds of terabytes, that’s crazy to even

Cyber attacks from China think about,” said junior Omar Noble.

According to Mandiant’s report, “The unit has stolen hundreds of terabytes of data from at least 141 organizations across a diverse set of industries beginning as early as 2006.” Most of these attacks were located in America, while some were located in Canada and others in Britain. The data that was stolen ranged from military contractors to chemical plants to mergers and acquisitions of companies. With one terabyte equaling 1024 gigabytes, the unit stealing at least 200 terabytes—which is 204,800 gigabytes—is crazy because it is a ridiculously huge amount of information.

To give an idea of the quantity of information that is, an approximate amount is close to 13,000 16 GB iPhones in full capacity.

“I think it’s weird that people can just hack our government and our information,” said junior Tyson Hartwell. “We should have better security that will actually keep people out of files they aren’t supposed to get into.”

According to Mandiant, once Unit 61398 has established access to a target network, they periodically revisit the victim’s network over several months or years and

Putting a stop to animal abuse

great addition to our community because they could prevent more abuses from hapIn Broward County, new animal abuse pening,” stated sophomore Ashley Cristanlaws were introduced and put into action. tiello.

These laws were made to prevent more Even though many of these laws are comanimal abuse cases. Some of these laws mon sense and any animal owner should include dogs having the right amount of know to do them already, some don’t. And for those who don’t follow all of these laws, they will be punished if caught. Officials say that there will be no officers patrolling neighborhoods looking for violations of this law, however if they do receive a complaint they will come out to approve things. The punishment that you can receive for breaking these laws depends on the severity of the crime; some of the payments could be up to $500. There are many Animal Abuse: The new animal abuse laws enforced in Broward County will law suits expected to help protect all animals and pet owners living in the county. come out of these laws Photo by: Peter Dourvetakis because of the people exercise daily and the right amount of yard who may not know they are abusing their space for their size. For example, a dog pets. However, these new animal laws have under 20 pounds that is kept outside in a good intentions and could possibly stop yard must have at least 100 square feet of more cases of animal abuse from happenspace and if they are any bigger it must be ing. doubled (sun-sentinel.com).

“I agree with these new laws,” sophomore “I think that animal abuse is cruel because Jillian Marrero said. “No matter how much I can’t imagine being locked up in a cage trouble they might bring, in the end they or being abused. To me these laws are a could prevent more animal abuse cases.”

Haley Coolidge STAFF WRITER

steal broad categories of intellectual property, including technology blueprints, proprietary manufacturing processes, test results, business plans, pricing documents, partnership agreements, and emails and contacts lists from victim organizations’ leadership.

“The PLA plays a key role in China’s multi-faceted security strategy, so it makes sense that its resources would be used to facilitate economic cyberespionage that helps the Chinese economy,” said Dmitri Alperovitch, the chief technology officer and co-founder of CrowdStrike, another cyber security company.

According to http:// zeenews.india.com/,”Hacking attacks are transnational and anonymous. Determining their origins are extremely difficult.

We don’t know how the evidence in this so-called report can be tenable,” a Chinese foreign ministry spokesman said.

If the assumptions are correct, and China

really is developing their ways of cyber warfare, they may have a new potentially crippling weapon because they would know all of the plans of whatever company or government that they hack into. This

Joshua Alleman MANAGING EDITOR-LAYOUT

Italian Roman Catholic priest who is the director of the Holy See Press Office. “He will be discreet and sustain his successor with spiritual service.” Meetings will be held to elect the next pope between fifteen

son a Palm Beach County high school senior is trying to change where smokers can A single puff of gray smoke clouds your blow out their gray clouds. face and then continues on to float into the The Palm Beach County high school sefaces of others around you, and with that a nior, Caitlyn Johnston, wanted to help put life can be altered forever. For years, many a stop to public smoking after her grandfapeople have found themselves falling into ther passed away due to lung cancer. This the grasp of smoking cigarettes, even motivation first led her on a quest to push amidst the millions of ads that are plastered the state to impose a ban on smoking in all state parks and beaches. However, she realized her goal might have been too strong in the beginning. So instead she has decided to push for the authority of her community and county legislators to implement bans on smoking on beaches and in parks in their area. This is due to the fact that in the state of Florida the local governments aren’t able Smoking: Students face opposing opinions when it comes to smoking. to put smoking limitaPhoto by: JP Dussan tions in their cities and all over telling of the harm of this habit. counties. The official legislative title for Some have found this habit one that is hard this bill is, House Bill 439, and many are to break, but this is one that has led to the uncertain about the future of it. diseases and deaths of many. For this reaTo some, the prospect of having a ban

will allow them to know what they shouldn’t know and because of the Chinese government’s extensive monitoring of the internet, this series of cyber attacks can be assumed to have to be known and aided by the Chinese government.

Pope resigns: What’s next?

Pope Benedict XVI has announced that he will be resigning at the end of the month, breaking the 600-year tradition of serving until death. Benedict announced that he would be stepping down due to bad health and he will be going back to his previous status of Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger.

“In my eyes, it was the right decision for him to make. The Pope felt that he could no longer serve the position 100% because he was old and because of his health, so by retiring, he made way for someone that could take care of the entire job, 100%. I believe his retirement was for the good of the church because the most capable and able leaders need to be in charge,” said sophomore Shaun Enos.

Benedict said he had decided to step down “in full freedom for the good of the church, after much prayer and having examined my conscience before God, knowing full well the seriousness of this act, but also realizing that I am no longer able to carry out the Petrine ministry with the strength which it demands.”

Even after Benedict retires, there is speculation that he will offer guidance to his successor. Benedict may still be viewed as a superior to his successor as he will live just a few hundred yards away in the Vatican’s Papal Apartment. “The successor and cardinals will be very happy to have nearby a person who more than anyone understands the spiritual needs of the Church and his successor,” said Federico Lombardi, an

Teen’s quest to ban smoking ignites burning debate Chelsie Ramos STAFF WRITER

Cartoon By: Emily Semander

on smoking is a beneficial thing. Smoking cigarettes causes harm not only to that person, but to those around him or her too.

According to the American Cancer Society, almost every 1 in 5 deaths in the U.S. are related to tobacco use and it is linked to at least 30% of the cancer deaths that occur. The effect of secondhand smoking is one that is very common and hurts many people, by exposing them to the higher concentrations of the cancer causing agents that come from the sidestream smoke (American Cancer Society). Freshman Nalia Roba agrees that a ban on smoking should be created for health reasons: “I don’t like smoking and I think something should be put up to stop it. I have unfortunately smelled it around me a lot, which isn’t good because I have asthma. Smelling it and having asthma actually harms me more.”

Others also share the same belief that smoking in public areas causes more harm than good. “I think that restricting smoking in public areas is a necessity. Even though you [those who smoke] may be comfortable with the choice that you are making in regards to your own health, you can’t ac-

Graphic by: Julian Graves

and twenty days after he leaves; the new pope will be elected by 117 cardinals under the age of 80.

Vatican experts are still confounded on how to react to this sort of thing; since a pope hasn’t retired in over 600 years, there is no protocol to follow and they are looking for a solution. “I think it’s strange that the Pope retired and broke the tradition of serving until death; it is a great honor to be the Pope and I’m surprised that he would give up that great opportunity and responsibility,” said junior Edgar Casilimas.

Pope Benedict claims that his leaving will not hurt the church. While he was giving his resignation speech he thanked the crowd and said, “Continue to pray for me, for the Church and for the future Pope. The Lord will guide us.”

count for other people who feel differently, or children that don’t know the dangers of smoking,” says junior Alden Diaz.

However, there are still many people out there who don’t feel that there is a need for restrictions. “Smoking cigarettes is a

“Almost one in every five deaths in the U.S. is related to tobacco use.” choice, and those people should use their discretion as to when and where they should smoke, like not in front of kids. But I don’t think there has to be an actual city restriction on it,” says junior Andre Blackman. Andre is not alone- while others grapple with the possible idea restrictions on smoking in public areas, they must understand the harm that it causes.

Caitlyn Johnston is on the right path to finding a way to help fight for something that she truly believes in. Only time will tell if the bill will be passed and if steps will be taken to help lessen the harm that cigarettes have in our communities.

Gangnam Style steps down; it’s time for the Harlem Shake Andrea BELLORIN STAFF WRITER

Since the Gangnam Style YouTube videos took control during 2012, a new viral YouTube sensation has taken 2013 by storm. The “Harlem Shake” is the new and upcoming dance craze sweeping across the nation and even worldwide. The Harlem Shake videos have hundreds of different variations which mostly consist of chaotic dancing and the well-recognized “Harlem Shake” short song produced by the rising DJ and music producer, Baauer. The videos begin with the song’s sample of a man giving a meaningless siren call of “Con los terroristas!” which is Spanish for “with the terrorists.” Following the shrieking call of Colombian Spanish, one covered person is usually dancing as the beat builds up.

This crazy dancing loner is either wearing a strange helmet, hat, or uniquely loony outfit. He or she is surrounded by stationary people, unaware of the dancer. When the bass drops, the action explodes and the video suddenly converts into a chaotic dancing scene with several people dancing in random places dressed in crazy, tacky outfits with bizarre props. This insanely popular video lasts for about 30 seconds, containing pure madness.

“At first I had no idea what these Harlem Shake videos were all about. Sooner or later I began to watch all these funny versions of the dance that were filmed just

about everywhere in the world. It’s crazy how something can spread so fast to all audiences,” says sophomore Sofia Vargas.

The international response to the Harlem Shake video craze has been astonish-

13 Entertainment

February/March 2013

After numerous companies and celebrities joined the revolution of creating their own Harlem Shake videos, hundreds of versions have been uploaded by users via YouTube for everyone’s entertainment.

Harlem Shake: Our Charter rendition of the viral sensation of the season. Photo by: Chat Video Staff

ing. Combined with their assorted props and different groups of people, various groups have shot videos of themselves doing the Harlem Shake and released it for the world to view. Groups such as the staff of the Late Night with Jimmy Fallon, a squadron of the Norwegian Army, UCF students, The Daily Show, the UGA swim team, musicians Matt & Kim, and even local television outlets got in on the action.

For those who stay connected with any new video outbreaks, many may wonder where the pandemonium originated from.

Most of the audience viewing the Harlem Shake is not aware of who produced such a sensationally popular song. Baauer, born Harry Rodrigues, is a 23-year-old Brooklyn-based producer, and creator of the one and only Harlem Shake. While stuck at home, the DJ sampled various hip hop

‘Girl World’ is at peace with these classics Chelsi Chang STAFF WRITER

“On Wednesdays, we wear pink!” If this quote is ever mentioned to any teenage girl, their eyes will immediately light up as scenes from the infamous Mean Girls movie begin to race through their head. There are only a select few number of movies that have earned the honorary title of ‘teenage girl movie classics.’ These movies can be quoted in almost any circumstance and no one will question where it’s from; it’s practically common knowledge. These movies bring back specific memories and thoughts of simpler times when life was fun and innocent. What is it that makes these movies so intriguing? Why is it that these movies have not faded away into the blackness like other movies?

Many movies have tried to attain this honorary title, but have failed to do so.

These movies have the perfect combination of an all-star cast, an awkward yet

Pitch Perfect. “I use the quotes from these movies all the time. For example, when I’m going shopping, I will say ‘get in loser, we’re going shopping’ because they say it in Mean Girls and everyone knows what I’m referring to,” said junior Rebekah Welch.

The common reasoning for many students’ obsession Girl’s Movie Night: Some top chick flicks, a bowl of popcorn, and a cozy couch with these movmake for an easy and fun Girl’s Night. Photo by: Rebecca Gonzalez ies here at PPCHS hilarious script, and an infinite amount of is that these movrelatable moments. Other movies that have ies have some factor of being relatable. “I attained this title- debatably- have been think also that a lot of people want high Bridesmaids, The Notebook, and recently, school to be like it is [in those movies]. I

beats and made house music for a very long time, according to the official Fader website (thefader.com). The Harlem Shake is a dance that originated in Harlem, New York. What has now become an internet meme began in February and has increased in popularity ever since.

“A couple of friends of mine told me about the Harlem Shake video they made at UCF. The video is hilarious and everyone came out and danced crazy together.

The Harlem Shake really is becoming a sensation everywhere,” said junior Elizabeth Bode.

The ever so popular Gangnam Style video has clearly stepped down as the collection of Harlem Shake videos take over the internet worldwide. There seems to be no end to the scope of this fad as people all around the world join in on the action, each video crazier than the last. The videos uploaded onto YouTube and other video viewing websites are receiving up to millions of views every day according to ABC News. Some students from The CHAT’s staff even participated in the craze and made their own version for the web.

You can view the video here: http://www. youtube.com/thechatnews . Stay tuned YouTube viewers, as we await the arrival of the next viral dance video to make a hit worldwide. Who knows, your crazy dance moves might be next.

found it appealing because it’s funny and it shows how girls really are towards one another,” said junior Kiki Alexander. Alexander brought up an interesting point: most of these movies either make fun of the way females interact with each other, with most girls always trying to outdo one another, or they offer a portrayal of the perfect relationship. “These movies kind of show off the standard in high school because girls tend to be cliquey, it kind of shows the good and the bad parts of high school in general and offers a lesson about changing in high school,” said junior Adriana D’meza.

Whenever these ‘teenage girl classics’ play on channels such as ABC Family, girls will stop whatever they’re doing and make sure to tune into the movies that never fail to make them laugh.

It is a nice moment when all the girls can come together to share their love of these hilarious classics. It seems to be the only time where “girl world” is at peace.

She wasn’t born this way!

Grammy crasher upstages Adele and J.Lo

been praying it would heal.” Even though The “Born this Way Ball Tour” presenting the tour has been cancelled, all fans that Lady Gaga and featuring other performers planned on attending the concert will be was cancelled due to unexpected health reimbursed. The pop star assures that she is conditions this going to make past week. Afa hasty recovter countless ery and sends performances her apologies. and long nights “It will hopeof rehearsal, the fully heal as dashing diva soon as possiwasn’t prepared ble, I hate this. to continue the I hate this so tour full throtmuch. I love tle. “I can’t beyou and I’m lieve that she sorry,” Lady is not coming Gaga tweeted down to perthe same day. form anymore.

The hip Live from BB&T Center: Lady Gaga temporarily cancels her I had floor seats tour because of her surgery. Photo by: JP Dussan surgery took and was so explace on Febcited!” exclaims junior Galit Sims. Lady ruary 20, 2013 and recovery will start Gaga is now facing health conditions that soon after. Many fans are upset, yet show a affect her artistic performances. The su- substantial amount of support. “It is sad to perfluous movements she does while per- know that Lady Gaga will not be coming to forming has resulted in a labral tear in the South Florida, however I hope she recovers right hip. In order to recover completely because health is important. If she doesn’t and ensure future concerts, Lady Gaga will have her health, then she could never perhave to undergo surgery and recover with form. She is still a star in my eyes,” states enough time to guarantee positive results. senior Ashley Rosa.

With the pop star facing the heart breaks More information will be released acof many fans, she has assured that she cording to the recovery of Lady Gaga. The hasn’t taken the easy way out. After tweet- “Born this Way Ball Tour” has given many ing to millions of fans on February 12, fans excitement and grief, yet has gathered 2013 saying, “I’ve been hiding a show in- much support. The phenomenon has only jury and chronic pain for some time now, just begun, and it’s a long way until Lady over the past month it has worsened. I’ve Gaga redeems the limelight once again.

presenting the award for Best Pop Solo The Grammys is an award show where Performance which was won by Adele for artists from all music her song “Set Fire to the genres come together to Rain.” As Adele made reflect last year’s music her way to the stage, and see who was the Jennifer Lopez noticed best of the best in their his presence and told respective categories. him to get off the stage; This event is filled with he then immediately got several A-list celebrities off the stage. anxiously waiting to Vitalli Seduik was arsee if they won a presrested for trespassing in tigious award. Since the Grammys and was there are so many cereleased the next day lebrities in one spot, the with a $5,000 bail. He Grammys always has has a court date set for vigilant security which March 4th. Apparently, makes it hard for bythis isn’t his first enstanders to get into the counter with celebrities. event. Recently there He was smacked by was a bystander who Will Smith after kissing was able to sneak into him on the cheek last the Grammys without a year on the red carpet. problem. “I didn’t even For the future, there will notice that someone be tighter security at crashed the Grammys these events to prevent when I was watching a fiasco similar to this the show,” says freshone from ever happenman Alejandra Valing again. “As long as lardes. Ukrainian jour- Grammy Crasher: These few “uninvited no one got hurt, I think nalist, Vitalli Sediuk, individuals” somehow make their way into the it is kind of humorous was the sly Grammy Grammys. Cartoon by: Emily Semander that someone crashed crasher who simply followed Katy Perry to the Grammy’s,” said junior Taylor Tramthe front row of the event, according to E! mell. Whether there is a controversial outfit News. or a crasher that was able to get on stage, Sediuk was even able to get on stage. He the Grammys will always be an award was on the stage when Jennifer Lopez was show full of surprises.

Alexandra Mangano TECHNOLOGY EDITOR

Anthony Kelleher TECHNOLOGY EDITOR

Technology February/March 2013

14

Today’s generation lives in a world where the means of connecting with others is at the tip of their fingers. The advancements that have occurred throughout the years have allowed for a new way to communicate with others and even meet new faces.

This has allowed for friendships all over to blossom. It doesn’t matter whether the relationship had been formed previously in person or through the Internet; today’s technology has made a huge beneficial impact on relationships between friends.

To some, the world of social media and technology has had a negative impact on friendships. However, many others don’t see the flip side of it. There are multiple benefits toward friendships that have come about from simply logging into websites such as Tumblr. In the world of Tumblr, the everyday person becomes a blogger, following and connecting with people from all over the world. This has allowed for friendships to form by the simple click of a reblog. Junior, Kelly McColman, knows about this since she actually was able to meet her best friend through the site. “My best friend, who I met on Tumblr, actually lives in California, so we unfortunately have never met in person. But with all of the technological means that we have, I am able to communicate with her. Things like Skype, chats, and texting allow us to talk and stay in touch,” says, McColman.

Chelsie Ramos STAFF WRITER

Other social media sites such as Twitter and Facebook have brought people together that even go to the very same school. These sites that let students voice their opinion on forums where people are able to connect with one another based on similar ideas is the reason for the forming of many new friendships.

“Twitter typically connects people together, and everyone is usually friends on the Internet, even if they haven’t met in person. It also helps people who are somewhat socially awkward in school, since they can go on Twitter to voice their opinions and make friends,” says junior, Micah Baxter.

The ease of communicating between people through these sites allows for groups to better send information out and inform others. Class officers are able to use Twitter and Facebook to link the students in their class together and to make them aware of what is happening.

Junior Janetsy Hernandez agrees that these sites help bring the classes together. “It is really easy for school presidents to talk to our class through twitter and inform us of what is going on and what we should know,” says Hernandez.

Programs like Skype, ooVoo, and FaceTime have also helped with these relationships. They have allowed people to communicate with others in the

same city, different states, even in a different country. These programs have allowed for people to stay in touch with each other, computer face to computer face, even if they are thousands of miles apart. Junior Nicole Cordoba was faced with this situation when she temporarily moved to Portugal midway through her freshman year.

Skype allowed for her and her friends to stay in constant contact with each other, and allow for her friendships to stay strong no matter the distance. “I think these programs are great! While I was in Portugal they were the only things that I could use to talk to everyone over here [back home]. Without them I probably wouldn’t have been able to keep as strong as the relationships that I had here at home,” says Cordoba.

The growth that has occurred in the tech world in the past few years has centered its life on our generation. It has brought a world of people together by simply just logging into the internet or your phone. The world of communicating through technology has made an everlasting impact in the lives of friendships, and this impact will only to continue to grow as the years pass.

We’ve all witnessed it. Everyone talking and relaxing in a group as someone pops up from their seat, their face turns white as they look down to see their $600 smart phone tumbling to the unforgiving floor.

The crack of the screen silences the room as they retrieve their iPhone and stare into its fragmented screen.

A survey done by the NY Times said that an annual $2000 is spent per household on repairs to handheld electronics that were not properly protected.

“Phones and tablets are so expensive these days and to not protect them with protective cases is

dumb,” says junior Kaylin Carro who has a very popular Life Proof case. Life Proof cases made just for iPhones are considered the safest cases but have price tags as expensive as $80. With this though, your phone is waterproof, freeze proof, and basically indestructible. While many students and parents believe this is the best bet in protecting expensive phones, others object to making their phone imperishable and substitute it with unique, multi-colored cases.

“With everything I do I like to show my individuality and my style,” commented junior Nikki Brito. “People just need to take care of their stuff and you won’t have to go out and buy an elaborate case.”

Digitaltrends.com did a recent poll on what customers look for in a case. The most popular response was “an affordable, thin, protective case.” Digitaltrends. com concluded that the study shows that SwitchEasy Avant-Garde Series Clockwork Case is that best case that meets those requirements.

Whatever your preference in selecting a case, it’s up to the owner of the phone.

Developers have finally started the quest of merging the stylish look with protective, money saving designs for customers. So next time you see your phone directed to smack into the ground, you can know it’ll be safe and stylish.

vincing for most of the public and techsavvy lovers. Now, sources such as the New York Times are reporting that Apple has been secretly working on a prototype of their new product ever since 2012. A “very small number” of Apple employees, about 100, are working on the prototypes of the watch and in on all the details. One prototype of the smartwatch includes a clear, curved glass display. If all rumors are to be true about it, this idea of the use of a curved glass is possible with the use of some version of Corning’s new Willow Glass curved technology in such an iWatch, according to Geek Magazine.

Like always, for any new Apple device there will be a lot of interest in such an advanced piece of technology available at

just the palm of your hand. Some people, on the other hand, seem to think of it as simply a twisted business scheme.

“The supposed iWatch will end up being a huge waste of time in my eyes. To me Apple has a very interesting way of introducing their products to the public. People buy the new product and during that time they will be creating the next version soon to come out so people continue to buy from the company.

It’s quite the evil business strategy if you ask me,” says Alden Diaz.

As the Apple “smartwatch” continues to be the subject of renewed rumor and speculation, Apple consumers will stay connected to any advancement to what we know presently as an imaginary product. The real question is, will it be an imaginary product for long?

Bulky case worth the protection?

Troy Bottom NEWS EDITOR

Stlyish, Plain, Bulky or Slim: With the spur of cellphones, people want a variety of cases that express themselves and protect their phones. Photo By: Gaby Cabeza

iWatch rumors resurface Andrea Bellorin STAFF WRITER

With rumors spreading faster than a teenagers text messages, the highly esteemed Apple company has a lot to deal with when it comes to rumors about potential products in the making. The iPhone, iPad, and iTouch, to only name a few, are some of the very well recognized products that have been produced by the Apple Company.

Shortly after the iPhone 5 was revealed to the public for sale just a few months ago, rumors of the next Apple product were soon to come. iPhones with hologram’s right at your fingertips and watches that will replace the iPhone have been some of the few rumored products coming soon from Apple. Now many wonder when they

hear rumors of such technological advancements; can they be true?

“I have always had the newest Apple products; I guess you can say I’m a big fan.

When I heard about the iWatch it didn’t seem too realistic to me but who knows, it might be true” says Nicholas Bastidas.

Although it is quite difficult to narrow down the truth about such rumors, many Apple customers have been pondering the possibility of an iWatch device that could have the functionality similar to that of the smartphone. The rumors of the iWatch date back to 2011 when it was first reported that Apple and Google were combining forces and working on prototypes for wrist-based computers. Such possible technological advancements were shocking and not con-

A Worm in the Apple Alexys Nowak STAFF WRITER

Just hearing the brand name “Apple” automatically sets a person to believe that the product can work wonders. All of the devices that this company has created have been hits worldwide, but none is better known than the iPhone itself. From the first generation to now, the iPhone has become not only a way to talk to friends, but a tool for directions, translating and even entertainment. The slogan “don’t fix what isn’t broken” does not seem to apply to the Apple Company whatsoever. There are constantly new software updates for the latest phone, and by the time that it is downloaded, the next generation has been released. However, there is no such thing as perfect, and no matter how great a product may seem, there is always a flaw found somehow.

The latest update- iOS 6.1.2- was said to fix a glitch in the calendar, but came along with one major issue. After updating their

phones, users found that there was a way password glitch makes it much easier to to bypass the password and get into the get away with stealing a phone and keepdevice by pressing the buttons in a cer- ing it. Gabriella Cerrato, freshman, has tain order. Apple received numerous com- very strong feelings on this aspect of the plaints about this software update that was issue. supposed to fix a minor glitch but instead “If someone were to steal my phone, I brought about a new, major one. would think they would need my password The students at to do any damage, PPCHS, many of but now they could whom are owners of get in and have it iPhones themselves, all for themselves. have mixed feelings Plus, they could on how this may aflook through all of fect them or others. my personal things,” Many kids are very stated Cerrato. protective over their On an opposing phones and what is note, sophomore inside them, so they Gabriela Eyrich bealways keep them lieves that in some close by. However, ways this glitch mistakes happen and To Update, or not to Update?: Apple’s newest iOS could be positive. a phone could be lost updae has a few problems with personal security “If I was to lose my or stolen at any mo- which may be a factor in whether they update their phone and the perdevices. Photo By: Rebecca Gonzalez ment in time. The son who found it

Online dating: People are moving to the web for starting relationships. Sometimes it leads to trickery, as seen in our last issue about ‘Catfish’. Photo By Gaby Cabeza

was nice, they could contact someone so I could get it back. It wouldn’t be good if my password was the only thing preventing me from getting my phone back,” she explains.

Even if a person is extremely careful with their phone and where they keep it, they may not even want people going through personal information. “I feel very uncomfortable that anybody could go through my private information. It may not seem drastic, but many people may not feel secure about this,” said freshman Matthew Behnke.

All in all, everything great comes with its downfalls. The iPhone is something that is used on a daily basis by millions of people.

When a new generation comes out, there are lines outside of Apple Stores that last for hours, even days for some. A simple glitch such as the password mishap could cause may people to lose trust in the company despite all of the great things they have done for the world.