Homecoming Week 2015:
Fast and Furious meets Night of the Jaguar
Maria Bozo Editor-in-Chief Emily Deese - Layout Looghermine Claude - Content Matthew Fernandez - Video Managing Editors Chatter Daily News Taylor Horan Web Managing Editor Sarah Barrocas Business Manager Mr. J. Harris - Layout Mr. F. Fagen - Content Mr. J. Harris - Video Advisers
Mr. P. Bayer Principal
David Cha-Kim News Editor Hayley Hartwell Student Life Editor LJ Lemmers Technology Editor
Contents
The C.H.C. Staff
Melissa Pierce Entertainment Editor Matthew Deno Sports Editor Nick Rivera Features Editor Christina Feliciano Lifestyle Editor Cristine Alayon Clubs Editor
Pages 4-5
Lauren Cookley Community Outreach Sydney Silverberg - The CHAT Jonathan Harris - Web Photo Editors Matthew Perez Graphics Editor
CONTENT STAFF: Maria Acosta-Rubio, Cristine Alayon, Sarah Barrocas, Nadira Danticat, Mason Feldman, Matthew Hernandez, Alexa Infante, Abigail Johnson, Frank Mora, Amanda Peralta, Lauren Ramirez, Evan Samuels LAYOUT STAFF: Sofia Alfonso, Jose Bozo, Lauren Cookley, Madison Duke, Esteban Gangotena
Student Life: Spirit Week Day 1 Dynamic Duo
Pages 6-7
PHOTOGRAPHY STAFF: Elizabeth Gamez, Eric Hernandez, Omar Loufti, Nicole Mercadal, Kristen Miles GRAPHIC STAFF: Nicole Hernandez, Natalie Laurent, Katie Perez CHAT VIDEO NEWS STAFF: Samuel Eliacin, Cristina Feliciano, Christopher Rundell, Genesis Vesco The C.H.A.T. is an official publication of the Pembroke Pines Charter High School (PPCHS). The content of our newspaper is not necessarily the opinions of our advisers and administration. The C.H.A.T. staff welcomes any comments to the editors and/or staff. The C.H.A.T is a publication of C.H.C (Charter High Communications) sponsored by the Communications & Technology Department of PPCHS. Pembroke Pines Charter High School 17189 Sheridan Street Pembroke Pines, FL 33331 Phone: 954-538-3700 Email: chc.ppchs@gmail.com Twitter: @_theCHATter Instagram: @thechatnews The CHAT welcomes letters to the editor. Letters must be signed. The staff reserves the right to edit letters for poor taste, libel, and space. Drop off letters in room C113 or send an email to chc.ppchs@gmail.com
Student Life: Spirit Week Day 2 Transformation Tuesday
Pages 8-9 Student Life: Spirit Week Day 3 Famous Families
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Feature Homecoming : Pg 22
Pages 10-11 Student Life: Spirit Week Day 4 Safari Day
Pages 12-15 Student Life: Pep Rally: Jags rally for a good cause
Feature on Pep Rally : Pg 12
Pages 18-19 Sports: Band prepares for Homecoming & Cheerleading Captains
Pages 20-21 Features: SGA’s blood, sweat, and tears for Homecoming
Pages 16-17
Pages 22-23
Sports: Jags blank Hurricanes in Homecoming Victory
Features: A night (of the Jaguar) to remember
Dynamic Duo makes
Maria
Editor-
“F
or Dynamic Duo, I dressed up with two of my friends as characters from Mon Boo. Overall, I think that the day went really good. I feel like sometimes people are afr senior Denise Cukierman. October 5th marked the beginning of the long-awaited Spirit Week at PPCHS. Traditio year was no different; a day where Jaguars pair up with their best friends as famous duo Superman and Lois Lane, Batman and Robin, Mickey and Minnie, and other characters. “Coming up with my costume for Dynamic Duo day wasn’t hard; I just googled comi Lane with my boyfriend, senior Joey Valentin, as my Superman because he’s a fan of S their costumes,” said senior Ileana Perez. This year, Spirit Week is very different than last year. Last year, SGA set up different live interviewed the Homecoming Court from all four graduating classes. This pageant-e were nominated as the court before a final Homecoming King and Queen were announc Every year, Student Government Association (SGA) works tirelessly to put on the bes have to come up with the themes and get them approved, as well as make banners and pr time. The hard work is always worth it and I’m extremely happy with the themes and th PPCHS may not realize the amount of preparation that goes into the Homecoming Week Overall, the entire student body and SGA all came together to make the first day of Spi watched on TV for years and years. PPCHS looks forward seeing what next year’s spirit
Dynamic Duo: Seniors Ileana Perez and Joey Valentin dressed as Lois Lane and Superman. Photo by: Nicole Hernandez
Dynamic Duo: Junior Stephany Rodriguez and Senior Noah Roadriguez dressed as sailors. Photo By: Nicole Hernandez
Dynamic Duo: Seniors Collin Webb and Ryan Corona dressed as Cpatain Kirk and Spock from Stark Trek. Photo By: Jonathan Harris
Dynamic Duo: Juniors Devin Demenezes and his girlfriend Giulia Marcondes. Photo By: Jonathan Harris
Dynamic Duo: Seniors Michelena Pirro, Kristen Carter and Kiana Amabel dressed as Thing 1, 2, and 3. Photo by: Kristen Miles
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Dynamic Duo: Juniors Celia Gomez and Lauren Estremera dressed as cops and robber. Photo By: Kristen Miles
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its triumphant return Bozo
-in-Chief
nsters, Inc. Veronica Gayoso was Mike Wazowski, Sylvia Lillquist was Sully, and I was raid to look lame so they hold back, but everyone definitely went all out this year,” said
onally, the first day of Spirit Week is Dynamic Duo, otherwise known as Twin Day. This os from TV and movies. Jaguars filled the halls dressed as Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, . ic book characters because I know that they always have a pair. I decided on being Lois Superman. I thought the day went really well and I thought it was fun seeing everyone in
events during lunch, which included a game of Heads Up! on Monday. This year, SGA esque show was enjoyed by many, as students from all grades got to know the people who ced at the Homecoming Dance. est Spirit Week possible for PPCHS. “Tons of preparation goes towards Spirit Week. We repare for Pep Rally, the Homecoming Game, and the Homecoming Dance all at the same he student turn out this year,” SGA President Saman Govaria. Although many students of k, the student body definitely appreciates it. irit Week a success. Students enjoyed dressing up with their best friends as Duos they’ve t week has in store.
Dynamic Duo: Seniors Alyssa Rodriguez and Kiana Soto as Woody and Buzz Lightyear. Photo by: Nicole Hernandez
Dynamic Duo: Juniors Anthony Bombarderie and his girlfriend Chayenne Carter dressed as Donald and Daisy Duck. Photo by: Nicole Hernandez
Dynamic Duo: Senior Lucas Hernandez and Junior Marcos Pagella dressed as Spiderman and Captain America. Photo By: Jonathan Harris
Dynamic Duo: Seniors Rachel Lorenzo, Emely Sosa and Houda Baajour dressed as Power Puff Girls. Photo By: Kristen Miles
Dynamic Duo: Ms. Sunshine and Sarah Phelps dressed as Phelps Sisters. Photo by: Jonathan Harris
Dynamic Duo: Sophomores Deandria Fagon and Kiana Diaz dressed as characters from Clueless. Photo by: Kristen Miles
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Student Life
Transformation Tuesd
Amanda
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Staff W
pirit week plays a big part in the tradition at PPCHS. Combined with the homeco forward to. Spirit week is full of surprises, individualism, and creativity. Monday, was a s At first students were confused as to what they would dress as but SGA cleared the air an from the past, present, or what will be of them in the future. Transformation Tuesday consisted of students dressed in scrubs for the ones aspiring to dents threw it back to the beginning by wearing onesies and carrying stuffed animals whic “Transformation Tuesday was pretty cool because the majority of the school was dresse senior Malik Harper. Some of the teachers even participated in spirit week. Spanish teacher Ms. Ciafre and F and Marius came to school in the PPCHS polo shirt, with khaki pants and close toed shoe Ms. Ciafre said that the reason she dressed as a student was, “it was Transformation Tues a teacher we are all lifelong learners.” A few popular costumes within the seniors were frat boys, and senior citizens. Seniors Bri as senior citizen, painting their hair gray, wearing nightgowns and bending over their walk de Oca, Leila Hathaway, Camille Nugent, and junior Natalie Laurent dressed as a frat boy During A and B lunches, the frat boys and sorority girls came together to play water pon into red solo cups. It was definitely a day to remember for all students. Spirit Week 2015 w
Photos by: Jonathan Harris, Nicol
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day transforms Jaguars
Student Life
Peralta
Writer
oming game, homecoming court and the dance October 5-9 was a week everyone looked student favorite: Dynamic Duo. A new theme added to PPCHS is Transformation Tuesday. nd told the student body it was a day where students dress up to show their transformation
be doctors and baseball uniforms for the ones hoping to make it into the MLB. Some stuch reminded themselves what it is like to be a kid again. ed as doctors and nurses so that means everyone has a good head on their shoulders,� said
rench teacher Madame Marius dressed as a student, switching her role for the day. Ciafre es. sday, I wanted the students to know that sometimes I feel like them and that although I am
ianna Beach, Nicole Fairfoot, Kelcey Hernandez, Chinelo Osakwe, Kaitlyn Chang dressed kers. Seniors Alyssa Benitez, Alyssa Dobles, Sharnisse King, Sage Ferrell, Jennifer Montes ys, wearing khaki shorts, Sperry’s, long button down shirts, hats and sunglasses. ng. The seniors met in Senior Square, made two teams and took turns shooting a small ball was made special by all the Jaguars who showed their creativity and school spirit!
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Hernandez, and Kristen Miles.
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Famous Famil
Student Life
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Sarah B
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amous Families is the day where Charter students get to dress up as some of the mos From the Incredibles to the Addams Family and from Sandlot to the wizarding friends of H creativity. On October 7, this spirit-filled Wednesday became flooded with Charter studen Sophomore Amanda Cabus and her friends came as the Disney Princess family. Cabus h Families being my favorite. I went all out this time and made my own costumes. Granted pared to the others,” she said. When you come to think of famous families many people first associate this idea for the d portrayal of the Kardashian bunch. Sophomore Deandria Fagon dressed as Kanye West, sophomore Claudia Bonilla as Kourtney Kardashian, and senior Dylan Carter as Caitlyn J During A and B lunches SGA orchestrated a fashion show for those with the best of co way down the cafeteria on a staged runway. SGA members played a playlist in the backgr walked through. Freshman Samantha Pratts said, “My group of friends and I dressed up as Alvin and the C ence. It got my whole class rallied up into our school’s spirit.” A group that caught the eyes of Charter students alike throughout the day were the senio set up lounge chairs and an umbrella in front of U Building Wednesday morning, soaking i was extremely heartfelt and crazy to think that I would never do it again. Even though it w Even administration got involved into fun! Ms. Battle, Ms. Llanos, Ms. Yanez, Ms. Torr Thomas, Ms. Drumm, and Ms. Scott dressed like The Flintstones family. The third day of spirit week, Famous Families, was an overall success. Hopefully Safari incredible pep rally. Keep up the school spirit Jags!
Photos by: Jonathan Harris, Nicol
Dynamic Duo: Seniors Ileana Perez and Joey Valentin dressed as Lois Lane and Superman. Photo by: Nicole Hernandez
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lies fill PPCHS
Student Life
Barrocas
Writer
st eminent families that are incorporated into the many well-known movies and TV shows. Harry Potter, students capped on the opportunity to express their individuality and personal nts characterizing these famed folks. herself embodied Snow White. “I really liked the themes this year for spirit week, Famous d other people also dressed as princesses, I felt that our costumes had a unique touch com-
distinguished Kardashian family. A group of students made quite the impression with their sophomore Kevin Arroliga as Kylie Jenner, sophomore Kiana Diaz as Kim Kardashian, Jenner sashayed their way throughout the school day. ostumes to showcase their originality. Those who signed up to participate sashayed their round as each of the individual families were cheered on by students eating lunch as they
Chipmunks. As a freshman, spirit week was definitely a fun and exciting first time experi-
or Beach Boys. Seniors Youssef Abougendia alongside Daniel Ordaz and Roberto Coltaro in the hot Florida sun. Abougendia said, “Dressing up for the last time with my classmates was last minute though, it meant a lot to me to get together with all my closest friends.” res, Ms. Sabatier dressed like the Minions from Despicable Me, while Ms. Maycock, Ms. Day will be just as good as Famous Families. This year’s spirit week is set itself up for an
le
Hernandez, and Kristen Miles.
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Student Life
Spirits Are Roarin Alexa
As the Jags continued to showcase their roaring school spirit throughout homecom Imagine a school filled with students adorned with crazy ears, tails, and razor sharp tee
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creative and channel their inner animals. Students dressed as all types of animals from cheetahs to elephants, or interpreted the t as the ‘Safari’ Icon, the Apple Web Browser, and some students were explorers of the saf Junior Julian Barcelo said, “It was pretty cool how all of my classmates went all out. E enjoyed seeing everyone expressing themselves and seeing how everyone at PPCHS got There were many elaborate costumes such as junior Logan Beattie as Godzilla and senio students inflated their outfits and came to school sporting their looks with their heads hel Freshman Alex Mora said, “I really enjoyed this year’s homecoming spirit week. I am a f would think it was lame to dress up, but everyone went all out. As a school we only have Animal day may have been a riot, but it was extremely emotional for a lot of the seniors I was so sad to think that I will never get the chance to come together with my class and in the wild- the top of the food chain. Ultimately, I felt the reality of being a senior,” said The most popular outfit among the students, specifically the seniors, was dressing as a z role as zoo keepers as a way to show their seniority and power over the underclassmen. A which were under the control of the zookeepers. Spirit Week is always a great way to be creative, get together with your friends, and sho body excited, wrap up the week, and lead PPCHS into the main homecoming events.
Photos by: Jonathan Harris, Nicol
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ng for Animal Day
Student Life
Infante
Writer
ming week, the fun continued Thursday as PPCHS students dressed up for ‘Safari Day’. eth and claws. This became a reality on ‘Safari Day’, a day that calls for students to get
theme differently by dressing as zoo keepers or safari goers. There were students dressed fari and even “party” animals. Especially on animal day, which I find to be one of the hardest days to dress up, I really creative and made their outfits unique." or Nick Hernandez as an elephant. Although these may sound like simple costumes, these ld high, perfectly showcasing the true Jaguar spirit. freshman so I have never experienced anything like it. I would have thought that my peers e two pep rallies so I feel that this theme really got everyone excited for them.” s. “It was a truly bittersweet feelings dressing up for homecoming week that one last time. dress up for spirit week, and funny to think that I was playing the role we would assume d senior Priscilla Cabus. zoo keeper. As they enter their last year of high school, the senior class took on their true Although few underclassmen dressed up as zoo keepers, the majority dressed up as animals
ow off your true school spirit. Overall, this wild theme was a great way to get the student
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Hernandez, and Kristen Miles.
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Jags rally for
Student Life O
n Friday, October 9th, PPCHS Jags joined together in the school gymnasium to rally all had a sense of gratification after having donated to those in need for their en National Honor Society with their annual Harvest Drive, a program that gives thanksgiv find their seats, different teams and clubs prepared to come out and perform in front of a but silent as the students came in, with the band playing fan favorites like “Kung Fu Fi After the band completed their set, the national anthem began the pep rally. Senior M the afternoon. “I was so honored to have been chosen to sing the national anthem. It’s of myself. I was nervous but I think everything worked out well,” said Moljo. To start off, the cheerleaders sprinted out into the middle of the gym. The music began a dance to a Pitbull remix. After the cheerleaders exited the stage, the PPCHS majorett Sports including girls’ volleyball, boys’ football, and track all came out next to show th Cheerleader senior Madison Duke said, “It was an amazing feeling to be able to perform year and I think we did one of our best performances yet.” Throughout pep rally, SGA members in tutus, homecoming shirts, and crowns, wo smoothly. They awarded the spirit stick to the club with the most spirit during spirit we spirit stick tradition. The games began when 10 football players and 10 cheerleaders were paired up to pl other and the goal was to get the hula hoop to the other end of the line without letting go students from the water polo and track teams played a relay race in pairs with one mem The dance team took the stage next with a performance to a mix including Selena G flannel that complimented their performance perfectly by highlighting the fluidity of th The drum line played out the pep rally as the students exited and everyone was excite students that attended had a wonderful time. There will be another pep rally in the spri
Photos by: Maria Bozo
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a good cause
Student Life
& Lauren Ramirez
ach
& Staff Writer
o finish off an awesome spirit week with Pep Rally. This year, the students attending pep ntry ticket. This was set up by Student Government Association (SGA) as a way to help ving meals to families that cannot afford them. As students began to walk into the gym to all their classmates and teachers to show off their skills and talents. The gym was anything ighting” and “We’re All In This Together” to get the crowd excited with Charter spirit. Monica Moljo impressed the crowd with her singing skills and was a memorable part of s one of my favorite songs to sing and hearing the applause at the end made me so proud
n and the crowd was able to watch them hit each stunt. They finished the performance with tes performed to a hip hop mix that included intricate baton throws and talented dancing. heir school spirit as a team. m in front of everyone at pep rally. This is something that our team looks forward to each
orked towards pumping up the crowd, directing the teams, and ensuring everything ran eek. This decorated baton was awarded to Drama Club and marked the start of a Charter
lay a hula hoop game against each other. Teams stood in a straight line across from each o of the person's hand next to you. The cheerleaders finished the game with the win. Next, mber having to pull their pair on a sleeping bag across the gym. Gomez’s Good For You. The team’s simple stage outfits were white shirts, leggings, and heir movements. ed with charter spirit. Though this was the first pep rally back in the gym in two years, the ing, so if you weren’t able to attend this one, try your best to get to the next one!
o and Jonathan
Harris.
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Student Life
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Jags rally for
a good cause
Student Life Photos by: Maria Bozo, Samuel Eliacin and Jonathan Harris
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Jags blank Hurricanes in
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Sports
n October 9th, the highly anticipated Homecoming night, the Pines Charter fan base ration of the football team’s game against the Inlet Grove Hurricanes. It was a night filled w and band as the homecoming court for freshman, sophomores, and juniors were recognized they were in control of the game from the start, eventually winning by a score of 14-0. Co Grove had just a 1-4 record. The Jags were able to take full advantage of the opportunity a was a blast for the fans to watch and engage in. “The team had a really great performance, and it totally enhanced the whole atmosphere o very loud and was stomping on the bleachers. I’ve never seen such a pumped crowd at a Ja As for the game, the Jags were able to neutralize the Hurricane’s offense. The Hurricanes c canes had trouble with snapping the ball; there were several fumbled snaps that the Jags de touchdown in the opening minutes of the game. After a couple of punts, the Jags were able the beginning of the 2nd quarter, this time on a pass from freshman QB William Manuel to s and were looking to add to it. The defense came out of the gates continuing to keep the Inle rush that wreaked havoc on the opposing QB all game. This stalled many of the Hurricanes’ Jags were able to move the ball down the field but couldn’t add on to their lead. However, a final score of 14-0. This was by far the Jaguars most impressive victory in a while and the “We will definitely celebrate this win, but we can’t get too satisfied. If we want to continu be greatly improved,” said senior defensive end and linebacker Alex Martinek. The Jags offense was able to control the time of possession by having the ball for the vast the team forcing three fumbles and one interception while only giving up one fumble. Hop off the year strong. In order for the team to improve off of this victory, they will need to wo is determined to finish strong.
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n Homecoming Victory
ew
Photos by: Jonathan Harris and Eli Gamez
Deno
Editor
held its 2nd annual blackout, where fans dressed in all black to support their Jags, in prepawith excitement and activities, including halftime performances from the cheerleading squad d. The excitement and energy of the crowd translated onto the football field for the Jags as oming into the contest, the team knew that this was a very winnable game for them as Inlet and improve their 2-4 record of the year. Along with the Homecoming festivities, the game
of the stadium. When the Jags defense was on 3rd down or needed a big play, the crowd got ags game like this before,� said senior Jared Marchetti. couldn’t maintain any drives and were either forced to punt or turn the ball over. The Hurriefense recovered. On offense the Jags struck early as senior QB/RB Ajai Camacho ran for a to get the ball back and march down the field yet again. They scored another touchdown at senior RB Joey Valentin. At the break up 14-0, the Jags were not yet satisfied with their lead et Grove offense from gaining any momentum. The Jags were able to generate a great pass ’ drives and allowed the Jags defense to force more fumbles in the 2nd half. Offensively, the no more points were needed as the stellar defense ended up shutting out the Hurricanes for eir best defensive effort in years. ue to win, we have to keep working to get better each day. Every aspect of our team still can
t majority of the game. In terms of turnovers, the Jags dominated the turnover margin with pefully, the Jags will use this game as a launching point for the rest of the season and finish ork on a few key areas of their game plan. Just a couple games remain, but the football team
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Sports
Cheerleading Captains Madyson Mesa
A
t the age of 6, Madyson Mesa, picked up a pair of pom-poms and hasn’t put them down since. Now, Mesa, a senior, is currently a flyer on the PPCHS cheerleading team. But how does this talent develop at such a young age and continue throughout her years of high school? “As a little girl, going to football games and seeing the cheerleaders on the sidelines caught my eye instantly,” said Mesa. “It looked like so much fun and I knew it was something I would love.” Practicing two to three times a week, with a lot of hard work and dedication, makes Mesa shine out on the turf along with the rest of the team. Many students here at Charter may have seen her performing stunts in the air while on the sidelines and cheering at school events, like the football games. Mesa’s favorite part about cheerleading is the challenges, like learning new routines and stunts every year. With the homecoming game and Pep Rally approaching rapidly, Mesa is both excited and anxious to perform the team’s new routine. Having such a talented teammate like her, the cheer team will surely put on a great performance at both events. For the future, Mesa has big dreams of carrying her talents to the next level. Although cheerleading in college is very competitive, she still wants to proceed in trying out for the team at the college she ends up going to. “High school football games are fun, but college games are something else. It would be amazing if I got the opportunity to cheer my on my school every game,” said Mesa. Soon, Mesa will be cheering in front of hundreds of people at Charter’s biggest game. Maybe this time next year, she’ll be on national TV cheering in front of tens of thousands of people.
Ileana Perez
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leader all around the school, senior Ileana Perez is not only captain of the school’s cheerleading squad but also the senior class president and an SGA officer. She has been involved in cheering since she was seven years old at Pembroke Pines Optimist. “I always thought cheerleading was very enjoyable and my mom had encouraged me to try it out since she had cheered when she was younger as well,” said Perez. Perez has been cheering for the high school since her freshman year, and she always dreamed of being a captain for her senior year. To make her dream come true, she has put in a ton hard work and effort every day after school. Now that this dream has come true, Perez wants not only help every cheerleader with their routine and cheers, but also make sure everyone remembers the true meaning of teamwork this season. She has a true passion for helping people and it is definitely reflected through her leadership position on the cheer squad. Perez hopes that this season is the best one yet, as a lot of the girls on the team are seniors and it will be their last year cheering together. The cheerleaders have been preparing their routine for homecoming and pep rally over the past couple of weeks. With Perez’s help, they believe that they are ready to show their skills and talent to the students and faculty of Pines Charter and make this pep rally one to remember. As for life after high school, Perez plans on attending the University of Central Florida and is strongly considering getting a nursing degree. Hopefully, with the experience and knowledge that Perez has gained through cheering, she will be able to succeed at anything she sets her mind to.
Brianna Rodriguez
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igns of senior year quickly passing by are all around, football season is halfway done, and deadlines for college applications are rapidly approaching. For Brianna Rodriguez, senior year means that it’s the last year she’ll be cheering for the high school team. After starting cheerleading at the age of four, cheer has been such a big part of Rodriguez’s life, and being named captain for 2015-2016 season allows Rodriguez to make the most of her last year as a Jag. Every Sunday growing up for Rodriguez was game day at West Pembroke Pines Optimist, where she cheered for every team from flag football to the unlimited, which is the highest weight limit in optimist football. She continued cheering for the optimist all the way through her 8th grade year, but eventually high school conflicted with her schedule and she had to limit her cheering to the school team only. “Cheerleading has allowed me to meet a lot of new girls in high school and most of us have stayed on the team since freshman year so we definitely have a really strong bond. Becoming a captain this year has always been my dream and having my two best friends alongside me has made this an even better experience,” said Rodriguez. Rodriguez is sure to showcase her talents during the homecoming game and pep rally where the team will be performing their new routine. “I’m sure we will hit every stunt and get the dance perfect because we have been practicing all year for this moment,” said Rodriguez. Although she has not decided on where she would like to continue her education, she does know that she wants to study biochemistry, which will force her to be very focused on her studies and move on to her next dream.
P
Sports
PPCHS band spotlight: Homecoming week
Photos by: Sam Eliacin, Jonathan Harris and, Sydney Silverberg
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Photos donated by: Skylar Cannon
SGA’s blood, sweat, and te
Taylo
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Managing
alking into Bonaventure Resort & Spa the evening of October 10th, attendees w venirs of gold paper fans and sparkly fortune cookies. Students entered Homecoming, ha relieved that the stress and hard work paid off. To reach that moment of tranquility and p It all began May 2015, five months before the actual Homecoming dance. In Social Stu theme they wanted brought to life. The theme that won was titled ‘Night of the Jaguar’, also becomes the theme of the Fall Pep Rally. Once the theme had been selected, SGA be On the third day of the 2015-2016 school year, the leadership class, which all SGA memb are dedicated to a specific aspect of Homecoming. These committees range from Home Homecoming dance are Homecoming Décor and Ticket Sales. The committee of Homecoming Décor was led by senior Ileana Perez and junior Victor paper fans and sparkly fortune cookies that students could take home as souvenirs. Se Homecoming first hand. “Setting up for Homecoming was fun to me. I liked seeing the right, because it was my first time. Of course, it’s impossible for nothing to go wrong. I ju someone else’s suggestion,” said Acevedo. The Ticket Sales Committee was led by senior Taylor Horan and junior Demi Iglesias. Th tively. This committee is responsible for selling the tickets to Homecoming. This year, SG only. In previous years, the homecoming shirt has either come included with the ticket o and some students that attend Homecoming feel indifferent about the shirt, this preor secretary junior Diego Burga created the design of the Homecoming shirts, which were Sophomore Sonia Khan worked on the Ticket Sales Committee and helped with many experience that when I attended, it felt surreal. SGA worked so hard putting ‘Night of th opening. I learned how impactful selling tickets could be,” she said. The morning of Homecoming, SGA members filled Bonaventure bright and early at 8:4 possible so they had enough time to get themselves prepared for the night. The first set up design, two gold paper fans, and a handful of gold, sparkly fortune cookies. The centerp filled approximately half way with gravel. Then, the tea light was placed in the center of t vase. The LED light shined upward so the lantern was illuminated by the light. While som decorations were placed so students had a cool photo opportunity. Once the decoration the ballroom to work with the helium tanks. Bundles of white balloons were tied to a red balloons were created as well. One column was placed at each corner of the dance floor. Th by SGA members. At the end of the night, students were welcome to take home everythin left, happily holding a center piece and some custom fortune cookies. Every year, SGA puts blood, sweat, and tears into planning, prepping, and executing H one evening to go out, dress up, and enjoy a high school tradition. This year had a succ the memories that people cherish for a life time and for SGA, it takes a lot to create the f
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ears of Homecoming 2015
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Horan
Editor - Web
were greeted to a large ballroom filled with red lighting, oriental-themed decor, and souappy to be there and excited to enjoy the night. SGA members walked into Homecoming peace, there was a lot of preparation and effort that came before the ‘Night of the Jaguar.’ udies classrooms, students casted their votes on a slip of paper for which Homecoming an oriental theme inspired by the Chinese New Year. The winning Homecoming theme egan the preparation of Homecoming 2015. bers are enrolled in, was assigned its first quarter committees. All first quarter committees ecoming Game to Spirit Week to Banners. The two committees that work directly on the
ria Max. Homecoming décor made many of the decorations by hand, including the gold enior Julie Acevedo, new to SGA this year, really saw the hard work that SGA puts into e work behind things but at the same time, it was stressful because I wanted to do things ust learned to deal with these problems in the best way possible by either my solution or
The committee is always spearheaded by the SGA treasurer and second treasurer, respecGA chose to sell Homecoming shirts separate from Homecoming tickets and as pre-order or not available at all. Since many students that do not attend Homecoming want a shirt rder allowed people that really wanted the shirt the opportunity to get one. Recording sold for two weeks during lunch. different aspects of Homecoming setup. “Setting up Homecoming was such an amazing he Jaguar’ together. Personally, I was on the Ticket Sales Committee and it was very eye
45am. It was time to set up the event. Members tried to work as quickly and effectively as p were the table decorations. Each table got a red table runner that featured a dragon-like pieces were made using vases, gravel, LED tea lights, and paper lanterns. Each vase was the vase on top of the gravel. The paper lantern was constructed and placed on top of the me members set up the tables, other members assembled the “pop-up” decorations. These ns were complete, it was time to work on the balloons. Members gathered in the back of d, sparkly paper weight and placed around the ballroom. Four columns of red and black This year was special in regards to decorations as all of the decorations were hand crafted ng on the table, except the black tablecloth that belonged to Bonaventure. Many students
Homecoming. These 36 students and SGA advisor Mr. Curry worked together to create cessful Spirit Week, Pep Rally, Homecoming Game, and Homecoming Dance. These are framework for these memories. Congratulations to SGA on a successful Homecoming!
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Features
Photos by: Eric Hernandez
A night (of the Jag
Cristina Feliciano a
Lifestyle Editor a
On Saturday, October 10th, 2015, PPCHS students from all grades danced the night a Homecoming was held at the Grand Ballroom of Bonaventure Resort and Spa in Weston.
look that was pleasing to the eyes. The boys came in their most impressive suits and the g remember. As students walked towards the room, they were greeted with an oriental entryway and b over the walls. The tables were adorned with black table cloths with red table runners tha like they’d been dipped in gold. The centerpieces were glass vases filled with rocks and tea “It was nice seeing everything come together. I can’t even describe all the hours and dedica made by hand” said Victoria Max, the Co-committee head of the Homecoming Dance Dec The dance officially started at 7:00 pm, but most students trickled into the ballroom arou Homecoming was no exception. Students had a choice of Caesar salad, cheese tortellini tenders served with honey mustard and ketchup. There was also a corner filled with all kin After everyone was fed, it was time to hit the dancefloor. DJ Jason from Jammin Express “Wobble” that got the students excited and ready to party. Some homecoming dance atte energetic on the dance floor, and there was a variety of songs throughout the night, from ra Although there were always students on the dance floor, songs like “Hotline Bling” and “H like seniors Houda Baajour and Emely Sosa who said “We want to go to every event that C like freshman Chonnalin Sumonthee it is just the beginning. “I cannot wait to go to homec When 10:25 arrived, the students were directed to sit down for the moment they were all w were Ajai Camacho and Chanel Wimbush, Malik Harper and Tyra Smith, and Isabel Mirand for a drumroll. As the room filled with rumbling noises, Govaria said “This year’s Homeco room erupted in applause as the couple walked to the dance floor to receive their crowns. T Ed Sheeran’s “Thinking Out Loud” upon request. This then opened up an opportunity for Calandra, seniors Ileana Perez and Joey Valentin, senior Matthew Matson and junior And for this more sentimental segment of the night. As the lights turned on at 11:00, every Jag that attended left with a sense of euphoria and content. “Homecoming was a perfect way to end Spirit Week. The dance was a really nice e spirit week and pep rally, the Homecoming dance was Charter’s perfect end to a perfect w
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guar) to remember
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Nadira Danticat
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Staff Writer
Features
away at one of the most anticipated events of the year: Homecoming. Like previous years, The theme this year, “The Night of the Jaguar”, gave the ballroom a refined and oriental irls came in their most beautiful dresses. The Night of the Jaguar was definitely a night to
bamboo plants. The second students stepped in, there were red and blue lights flashing all t had Chinese calligraphy on them, accompanied by fans and fortune cookies that looked a light candles, all topped off with bright red lanterns. ation put into making it happen. We didn’t hire a decorator and the decorations were mostly cor Committee. nd 7:30 and headed straight to the buffet. Bonaventure is known for its amazing food and and penne pasta served with Alfredo and marinara sauce, herb breadsticks, and chicken nds of desserts like chocolate cake, chocolate chip cookies, brownies, cupcakes, and fruit. had everyone on their feet with all the hits. He played songs like the “Cupid Shuffle” and ndees made requests for the DJ so they could hear the songs that made them even more ap to pop to bachata to R&B. Hit the Quan” made everyone in the room go insane. This dance was bittersweet for some, Charter throws because it’s our last year and we have to enjoy every moment.” For others coming every year after this,” he said. waiting for: the announcement of this year’s Homecoming King and Queen. The nominees da. SGA President Saman Govaria walked onto the stage and proceeded to ask the audience oming King and Queen are…” and exclaimed “Ajai Camacho and Chanel Wimbush!”. The They began to dance to “Latch” by Disclosure ft. Sam Smith, but then the DJ switched to all the couples of the night to slow dance. Couples like seniors Lilliana Calero and Brian rea Roman, and juniors Natalia Valderrama and Chris Alegria alike filled the dance floor
satisfaction. As the night came to a definite close, Mr. Bayer couldn’t have been any more vent! I think the DJ was good, but I’ll have to ask the kids,” he said. Following an amazing eek.
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