The Prowl March 2011

prowl Coral Glades High School

the 2009, 2010 COLUMBIA SCHOLASTIC PRESS ASSOCIATION CROWN WINNER

2010

NATIONAL SCHOLASTIC PRESS ASSOCIATION PACEMAKER WINNER

Volume 7, Issue 5 March 2011

2700 Spor tsplex Drive Cor al Springs, Florida 33065

CHOOSING

THE RIGHT

Top five electives to take next year.

COURSE PAGE 3

SOFTBALL

Team uses tight bond to start season off successfully PAGE 22

Searches enforce drug policy

INSIDE

TORIHARTSTEIN LIFE EDITOR

REVAMPING CODE VIDEO TV Production class works diligently to create new Code of Conduct video for next year.

NEWS, Page 5

OP/ED KNOW WHAT’S UP

The present situation in the Middle East offers important information that teenagers should stay up-to-date on.

Page 10

LIFE POD NATION

Juniors take advantage of their Tech class to film a web show, “The Pod,” that portrays high school life.

Page 16

SPORTS INJURED SPORTS

A wide range of sports teams feel impact from student injuries, ranging from ACL tears and broken ankles to sprained wrists.

Page 20

to

PENMANSHIP

by Ashley Campo and Marissa Hullett

W

ith the struggle to make all those graceful little loops and connect one letter to the next, cursive used to be a daily activity in

the third grade. Students today, though, only use script when writing signatures.

Meanwhile, Elementary school teachers stressed this form of penmanship as if it would be life’s backbone during the process of growing up. Writing in cursive disintegrates with every day that goes

by. Third grade usually introduces it, but it rarely continues to be reinforced afterward.

“I remember writing the alphabet every day in cursive and how annoying it was,” sophomore Alan Greisel said.

See PENMANSHIP, page 15

BACK FEATURE

CORAL GLADES INKED

Tattoos rise in popularity amongst teenagers who wish to honor family members, friends, or just look stylish.

Page 24

graphic by Denise Leal

On February 15, Principal Michael Ramirez made an announcement declaring a code yellow. This code typically signifies that a threat to the school may be present. Further in the announcement, Ramirez clarified that it was simply a drill.

Later that day, students found out that K-9 Units had been present on at school.

“The dogs came in during my third period band class,” senior Albertt Scalone said. “We were all really surprised, we didn’t really know why the dogs and policemen were there. Some kids were really freaked out BONASERA by the whole situation.”

Ramirez did not want students to be alarmed by the drill. The goal of this procedure was to make sure students were aware that administration was trying to be proactive about the zero tolerance policy.

“K9 dogs were brought to the school because this is a drug free environment,” Officer Bonasera said.

“The police department takes an active role in enforcing that.”

The city of Coral Springs, as well as the School Board, have a memo of understanding in which schools are able to utilize the specially trained narcotics dogs. This allows the school to periodically decrease the use of narcotics throughout the student body.

The K-9 Unit has been employed several times throughout the years.

Prior to Grad Bash and other overnight field trips, luggage is searched by this unit in order to be certain that nothing has gone undetected.

Ramirez and the rest of the faculty have a zero tolerance for drug use and wish to ensure that Coral Glades remain a drug free zone.

See SECURITY, page 4

TEN-HUT: Team competes in county competition in early April

Marksmanship aims high THOMASGHEBREZGI STAFF WRITER

This year, JROTC’s Marksmanship team competed for their county competitions on February 19, at Stranahan High School.

About 10-12 other schools were in attendance, with a varying amount of competing teams.

Marksmanship is a JROTC team that consists of marksmen shooting at a target sheet from 33 feet. Marksmen are in three different positions when shooting: prone, kneeling, and standing. They operate with rifles in accordance with the Civilian

Marksmanship Association. Marksmanship is also an NCAA and Olympic Sport.

Each target has 10 bulls eyes labeled on them with two sighters where you can shoot an unlimited amount of bullets. Only one shot is allowed per bulls eye. During a marksmanship competition there are two teams of four people who are shooting in all three positions. Competitors take 5 minutes to prepare before shooting. After that, they shoot for 20 minutes standing, 20 minutes prone, and 15 minutes kneeling.

See JROTC, page 6

RELOADING: Senior Patrick Henry loads his 1902 Model Springfield rifle while practicing with his teammates after school. photo by Amy Weiss

2 MARCH 2011

NEWS

theprowl

Mark Weiner senior

ROHANNADKARNI SPORTS EDITOR

A

common complaint amongst high school students when teachers give out homework is that the teachers do not know what it is like to be in high school.

Contrary to popular belief, every faculty member was at one time a young, aspiring student. The Prowl interviewed five different teachers to understand exactly what they were like when they were teenagers.

The teachers interviewed came from as far as Brazil to New York. The high school perspective of these teachers ranges from the 60s to the 90s. Although teachers may not know the pressures of attending high school in this decade, they definitely understand the trials and tribulations of being a student. Exactly how different were teachers in high school? Let’s find out.

ARSENIO MENESES

You cannot spell ‘Physics’ without Meneses. Mr. Arsenio Meneses stands as the school’s infamous physics teacher, bringing years of experience and expertise from actual work in the field.

Meneses attended high school in South America’s largest country, Brazil. From there, he brought over not only his passion for teaching, but his flair and vast knowledge.

Meneses was a very successful student.

“After a weak freshman year, I realized that I had to change my approach. I [eventually] became the valedictorian of my school, with a GPA over 5.0,” Meneses said.

Life in Brazil differed greatly for Meneses compared to the lives of high school seniors in America. In Brazil, before anyone can go to college, they must pass an entrance exam at the end of their senior year.

“During my senior year, I had a very hard time,” Meneses said. “In preparations for exams to be accepted into a university, I studied for several hours on weekends.

You could not just apply to a university, you had to pass an exam, competing with thousands of students for just a

STEP BACK IN TIME

GET TO KNOW YOUR TEACHERS WHEN THEY

“My favorite thing about TV production is putting everything together. It just gives me a thrill of accomplishment and every time I see The Recap I can just say, ‘Hey, I did that!’”

few hundred positions.”

Meneses observes a clear division with his senior year to the behavior of many students today.

“There are big differences. In Brazil, 100% of the student’s performance was their responsibility. Here, most of the accountability is attributed to teachers,” Meneses said. “If students were not performing well in school, they had to drop. Students today have many distracters, like cell phones and iPods, which are okay but can take away from the main focus of school.”

Meneses graduated high school in 1965, during the decade he affectionately refers to as the “hot 60s.”

ELAINE DAILEY

Mrs. Elaine Dailey teaches only Spanish classes at School. For years she has been a favorite amongst students for her calm demeanor and motherly outlook on teaching. However, Spanish was not always Dailey’s first love.

“At first I thought I would become a biology teacher,” Dailey said. “Then I took Spanish and German.

Predictably, I was the President of Spanish Club.”

Dailey took school very seriously. She graduated number six in her class, going to a small high school in Linton, Indiana. The school did not offer AP classes or any way of boosting your GPA like students have today.

“We did not have weighted GPA’s [in Linton]. My GPA was about a 3.8 out of 4,” Dailey said.

In terms of extracurricular activities, the times were different in 1974, the year of Dailey’s graduation. Unlike today, girls’ sports were not a common part of every high school. Women who wanted to be athletes were not given the same opportunity as males to compete in the sport of their choice.

Interestingly enough, Dailey participated in her high school band, much like her daughter senior Elizabeth Dailey, who was the Co-Drum Major of the 2010 Marching Jaguars. Mrs. Dailey was also a majorette forerunner for her school’s color guard. Dailey took band as an alternative to the lack of sports.

ATTENDED HIGH SCHOOL Before Title IX, an amendment for equal opportunities amongst gender, it was not required for schools to offer women’s sports. As a result, Dailey belonged to a PreTitle IX Girls Athletic Association to play sports.

On weekends, Dailey behaved like the typical teenager, attending high school basketball games, indulging in ice cream and pizza, and catching movies such as The Godfather.

TIM WINBURN

Athletics have been competing fiercely since the school’s inaugural year. The man behind the man behind the scenes is Mr. Tim Winburn, the school’s assistant Athletic Director. Winburn also teaches Law Studies and American History classes. His ascent to his involvement in athletics began as an athlete in high school.

“I played football for four years in high school. I played defensive end and linebacker,” Winburn said.

Winburn notes a marked difference in high school students from his alma mater of Cardinal Gibbons to students here.

“At my school, the expectation was that everyone was going to college. Only five or so kids from my class did not graduate,” Winburn said. “Now, students seem more indifferent about college. I do not think that’s a private school versus public school issue, I think its just part of this generation.”

At Gibbons, Winburn earned a solid B average throughout his four years. He enjoyed the life as a typical all-American high school teenager.

“My group of friends got along with everybody.

Everyone at our school knew everyone else,” Winburn said. “We did a lot of go-karting, fishing, and going to parks. I was also a huge Nintendo kid.”

Winburn also had a little bit of a wild side. Graduating along side NBA point guard (and former member of the Miami Heat) Keyon Dooling, Winburn was also a fan of the 90s rap scene.

“I was very into rap. Tupac, Bone Thugs N Harmony,

N E W S

theprowl

Snoop Doggy Dog and Dr. Dre were my favorites,” Winburn said. “My generation was the first to bend the brims of our hats. Adults hated it and thought we were hoodlums but it seems too tame now.”

popular in America. Music was further influenced by the Vietnam War and other sources of protests. Martineau admits that her parents were among those who were scared of music’s switch to rock and roll.

Despite all of the possible distractions, Martineau stayed afloat. “I was a conscientious student, a goody-goody I guess,” Martineau said. “My favorite subjects were Math and French, although now I have forgotten most of my French.”

BEVERLY MARTINEAU

Not to be confused with her strikingly similar looking colleague Mrs. Margaret Fennell, Mrs. Beverly Martineau teaches math, most famously AP Calculus. Her rigorous courses can be a chore for students, but her methods are proven successful by her high AP passing rate and universal respect amongst the students.

Martineau attended Northwestern High School in Adelphi, Maryland, a short distance from the nation’s capital.

Martineau graduated sixth in her large class of 860 students, but she still found time for various activities.

“I was in Keyettes (the female version of the Key Club) and we performed a lot of service for the community. I was also Co-Editor of the yearbook and very involved in drama productions at our school. Things were very different then, there were not as many sports for girls,” Martineau said.

Martineau’s proximity to the White House also meant feeling a special connection to whoever was the current president. This hit home during the 1960s. “[At this time] John F. Kennedy was assassinated.

Because I lived outside Washington, D.C., it was a particularly traumatic event,” Martineau said. “The Vietnam War was accelerating too.”

Music during Martineau’s time underwent some changes as well. The Beatles and other English groups became very

CLASS ACT

ANNE WEINRIB

Most people would agree that health is the most important part of life, including Mrs. Anne Weinrib, who believes her class is right up there in importance with math and history. Weinrib teaches the health segment of HOPE, the school’s half PE/half health class designed to give students their necessary credits. Weinrib herself attended high school in the northeast, at Rockaway High School in Queens, New York, which has since closed down.

Weinrib did not originally want to teach health, but she did have an interest in the field.

“I did not want to teach. I really wanted to be a nurse and go into the air force,” Weinrib said. “My favorite subjects were Psychology, English, and Health.”

Weinrib was a well-rounded student at Rockaway.

She was involved in the school’s orchestra and student government, as well as working as a swim instructor. All of this was in addition to Weinrib’s A average as a student.

Weekends for Weinrib seemed tame by today’s standards.

“We hung out, went to movies and sports events. We were much more family oriented, every Sunday was a family

MARCH 2011 3 dinner,” Weinrib said.

Weinrib sees almost every type of student because of everyone’s requirement to take HOPE, giving her a unique perspective on the studentry. Weinrib notices a large gap between students of her high school days and today.

“I do not think you [guys] know how to have fun. Goals and objectives are different,” Weinrib said. “It’s not that we were more responsible [as students], but today there is more peer pressure to stray from the right path.” ...The teachers who instruct us every day all took different paths to reach where they are now. Students around campus often groan about their teachers, not believing for one second they could take on a profession that gives them so much grief.

However, the next time a student is thinking about how much disdain they have for their Calculus homework or why they cannot remember that the time it takes for an object to hit the ground from free fall is the square root of two times the height over gravity, they should realize that in a few years they may be the one handing out an assignment.

Whether it be the pay or having to work with young people, students often view teaching negatively. But by simply talking to a few teachers, it is evident that no matter the type of student you are now teaching can be a very rewarding life in the future.

Mr. Meneses, Mr. Winburn, Mrs. Dailey, Mrs. Martineau, and Mrs. Weinrib grew up all over the country, and one even grew up out of the country. They lived through different time periods, they witnessed different parts of history, and their stories of academics and friendships differ. But each one of these teachers clearly exemplify one message: high school teachers know exactly what it was like to be a student.

- 250 Students were polled on what elective courses they recommend to their peers.

1 CULINARY For all grades, Culinary stands as the most popular elective. Students have the opportunity to do hands on activities and eat their creations. “I help make the food so I know the ingredients in things that I eat,” sophomore and culinary student Zacharias Kirby said. Students are also able to repeat the recipes at home. Culturally, they get to experiment with a variety of ingredients and spices to learn more about foods associated with other nationalities.

2 WEIGHT TRAINING In Weight Training, students focus on the area they most want to improve. “In this class if you don’t dress out, you don’t work out and you don’t get the credit,” junior Kristen Ferguson said. This course is a good elective choice if you are looking for ways to improve your figure in a safe and monitored environment.

3 JROTC JROTC is a cadet-run program that motivates students to become better citizens. Its curriculum ranges from the U.S. Constitution to leadership skills. The course hosts marksmanship, drill, and raider teams.

4 PHILOSOPHY In Philosophy, students learn about life and the nature of reality. “We examine philosophical concepts using examples from life, like current events,” Philosophy teacher Mr. Ryan Newman said.

5 AP PSYCHOLOGY In this class, students learn about various life concepts. “I try to keep my class enjoyable by providing opportunities for students to share applicable experiences,” AP Psychology teacher Mrs. Anita Gelman said.

TOP ELECTIVE CHOICES With over 100 options for classes, student poll reveals top five elective choices and the perks of each course

by Christina Charan and Gabrielle Quintero

NEWS

4 MARCH 2011

Campus

CALENDAR

SGA raises money for cancer

YOGURTLAND FUNDRAISER

March 12

Indoor Percussion

Regional Competition @ Boca Community High School

SARAHPRUZANSKY STAFF WRITER

March 14 Baseball

Tournament in Sarasota, FL

March 16

Drama Thespian

State festival Tampa FL.

March 21

Boys’ Volleyball vs. Stoneman Douglas HS @ Away, 6 pm

March 24 Softball

vs. Deerfield Beach HS @ Away ,4 pm

March 24 Flag Football

vs. Coral Springs HS @ Home, 6 pm & 7:15 pm

March 25

Man vs. Beast

@ Taravella HS, 6:30 pm

March 28 Tennis @ Coconut Creek HS 4 pm

March 28 JROTC Informal Gym periods 1,3,6, and 7

March 29 College Night Media Center 6PM-10PM

March 29 Key Club Media Center 2:40PM

March 31 CGHS Idol Cafe Set-up 3PM Show 7PM

theprowl

MORE YOGURT PLEASE: Junior class President Eric Xu and junior class representative Austin McKenna help support their school by consuming frozen yogurt at Yogurtland on March 1. A percentage of all proceeds went to clubs and organizations throughout the school as part of a fundraiser set up to help earn money for various projects. The fundraiser lasted from 4 pm - 10 pm. photo by Tori Hartstein

Security tightens in schools class and questioned was described as a “small” Though students and teachers had not been group by Ramirez.

Senior Stephanie Bernard was among this warned in advance, Ramirez and his faculty of administrators and security personnel had group of students questioned. After being called out of her third period Comparative Government planned the search.

“This was a strictly school-based class, Bernard was led to the student parking lot decision,” Ramirez said. “It’s just to send the where her car was then searched.

“It was a shock because I didn’t know message that we’re a drug free school and to let anything about what was going the student body know that it’s on at first,” Bernard said. “It not something we’ll tolerate on “The dogs felt like an invasion of privacy, campus.” but at the same time I kind of An estimated 15 classrooms detected smells understood why they were doing were searched, all of which were and different it.” chosen randomly. The areas things, but The search team found searched included the south nothing of substance in building, student parking lot, nothing of Bernard’s car and released her black zone, locker rooms, band substance was back to class soon after. room, and at least one classroom found.”

“I was pretty upset about it, on each floor.

Michael Ramirez but I was just more concerned “The dogs detected smells Principal about what my peers would think and different things, but nothing because I’m a DECA officer and of substance was found,” I didn’t want people to associate me with that.”

Ramirez said.

Those whose belongings contained Bernard said.

Despite any misconceptions, Principal remnants of anything detected by the trained dogs were questioned. Parents were then Ramirez did not request the search due to any contacted to discuss the situation, but no other noticeable increase in irresponsible activities measures of punishment were implemented by on campus. He simply wished to reinforce the fact that any behavior of the sort would not be the faculty in school.

The number of students removed from tolerated on campus.

SEARCHES, from page 1

Student Government will be putting together a Mini Relay for Life to take place during school hours on the track on March 11. Students attending will be charged $5 to miss their last class of the day for a good cause. Students can walk in honor of someone who has survived cancer or has passed away as well as those they may know that fight cancer today. “[The relay] is for a really good cause because all of the proceeds go to cancer. It is also an easy way to get involved in our school because the tickets are so cheap,” SGA president and senior Natalie Hailey said.

Crazy Ray, the creator of the Relay for Life event in Coral Springs, is very involved in schools all over the city and raising money for the Relay for Life foundation. He came to Coral Glades as a partner with the hope of helping to promote awareness for this cause that holds a place close to his heart.

“The purpose of this event is to raise awareness of the large number of people who are affected by cancer. It gives us a good feeling to be doing our part,” student government advisor Kaila Rivera said. “It gives students participating in this event an intrinsic value on the matter and a good feeling that they did something to benefit the community.

It’s nice for students to know that if there’s ever a cure they had something to do with it.”

Although there had recently been a Relay for Life organized by NHS, SGA’s Relay differs slightly. The money raised by NHS went to the Parkland region’s contribution while SGA’s money raised will go towards the Coral Springs based fund.

“I believe this is the best event for a cause we do all year. We are expecting a pretty good turn out,” senior Greg Farber said.

Activities at the SGA mini relay will include everything from soccer games to hula hoop contests with raffles and jump roping contests.

Donated food will be sold at the Relay so that all proceeds of the food sold will go directly to the Relay For Life funds. There will also be a table set out where students can make memory crafts to honor loved ones who have suffered from the terrible disease.

So far, $400 has been raised and at the end of the fundraising, so the money will be deposited and then a check will be written to the American Cancer Society.

Other opportunities to help raise money and awareness for cancer are offered by the Relay For Life sponsored events open to the entire community. Locally, two are held annually. Coral Springs and Marjory Stoneman Douglas High Schools each hold an overnight walk-a-thon on their football field.

April 1 HOSA States Jacksonville, FL

April 2 Winter Guard Championship Competition @ Santaluces HS

April 6 Track vs. Stranahan HS, St. Thomas, West Broward HS @ St. Thomas

April 7 College and Coffee Media Center @ 8 pm

Neighboring schools constantly have new events that help reach out to the community and advertise the abilities of the students attending the school. In the next couple of months, neighboring elementary schools will be hosting activities available to everyone in Coral Springs.

Westchester Elementary has began a program that gives guidance to students on how to creatively solve their problems in a peaceful manner. Called the Club Invention Program, the project reaches out to kids who do not know who to turn to in times of trouble. It specifically gives participants an artistic alternative to solve their problems.

As an incentive to participate, the activities can be turned in by students to their teachers.

The activities are redeemed for rewards. This program will end April 7.

At the Applebee’s restaurant on University Drive, Parkside Elementary students have been given the opportunity to decorate the walls. In their partnership with the school, Applebee’s has agreed to allow students to show off their noteworthy literature or art for the community.

Every month fresh artwork will be posted on display for customers to view.

Another delicious way to support neighboring schools is to eat at Sir Pizza.

The new Italian restaurant at The Walk on University Drive has selected days in which Sawgrass Springs Middle School will receive contributions from the restaurant depending on its profits. The days to go the Sir Pizza are May

6 and August 26 from 4 pm to 9 pm. Recently, the school had a Sir Pizza night on March 3. The school made a lot of money off of the support of parents and students.

Coral Springs Elementary School held their annual carnival on March 5 at their school.

“This is traditionally the biggest family event of the year and is always a lot of fun,” Dr. Rene Shaw, the principal of Coral Springs Elementary School, said. “There was different types of auctions and vendors purchased tables to sell their items.”

At the event, attendees played a variety of games and went inside bounce houses to be entertained and encourage the fun and safe environment. The school made a profit from the even while promoting community bonds.

- Gabrielle Quintero

theprowl

N E W S

MARCH 2011 5

WJAG begins research for county film project As a member of county Code of Conduct committee, Ramirez offers TV Production opportunity to create 2011 video BROOKESAVAGE STAFF WRITER

TV production remains known for the morning announcements, The Recap, and the senior video. However, this year the program took on a new responsibility. Most students recall watching the same Code of Conduct video at the beginning of each year. The School Board finally decided that the video needs to be updated, considering that the most recent one was made in 2006.

In collaboration with Deerfield Beach High School, Coral Springs High School, and West Broward High School, Coral Glades WJAG will be organizing the shooting and production of the new video.

Participating in the Code of Conduct committee, Ramirez associates himself with 30 to 35 individuals that consist of teachers, parents, and district personnel. The committee makes decisions regarding the Code of Conduct and how it can be beneficial to the schools.

Along with that committee, Ramirez participates in a subcommittee that decides how the Code of Conduct video should be made, and how the booklet should be distributed.

According to Ramirez, next year the booklet will be distributed online in order to save paper and money. Ramirez holds great confidence in the TV production program and therefore volunteered them to organize and create the video.

“I thought that this would be a great opportunity for our TV Production class to be able to showcase themselves. ,” Ramirez said. “I expect them to do a great job with leading the whole project. I believe that they will be able to highlight what we as administrators want the students to know about the rules outlined in the Code of Conduct. I have great confidence that our TV Production program will be able to make a first class video.”

With no hesitation, TV adviser Mr. Daniel Alonso jumped at the opportunity to help out with the video. He has

been meeting up with the TV production teachers from other schools in order to organize it. They have all volunteered to help out with anything they can and Alonso plans on dividing up each section. The sections include: The Fashion Show, Drugs/Weapons Policy, and Anti-Bullying.

For The Recap, Alonso divides the students into groups in order to work on the different packages that get put on every week. The same idea will go for the Code of Conduct and every group will be assigned a different section. Seniors Mark Weiner, Brett Rabinovich, and Rochelle Alleyne will be in charge of editing and putting together the final video in collaboration with the other schools.

Weiner serves as the president of TV Production, the director of The Recap, and the main editor for this year’s senior video.

“It’s going to be hard working on The Recap, the senior video, and the Code of Conduct all at the same time. I’m confident that with the help of my team, everything will get done and the outcome will be great,” Weiner said.

Alonso has worked hard in organizing the TV Production program and teaches the students what the career will actually be like. Students learn about script writing, filming, and editing. They also learn about the process in coming up with story ideas and how to meet a deadline.

Six years ago, Alonso became the teacher of TV Prodcution and loves working with the students outside the “text books and bubble test” system.

“I worked for several TV stations as a reporter and producer over the course of nine years. Most of the time I had to work so much that I barely had a life so I decided to slow down and get a more regular job. Since I love working in news and television, I thought it would be a good idea to teach that subject in a high school setting,” Alonso said.

The student-directed class works hard in capturing news on film and reporting it to the student body. TV Production

opens up an opportunity to be creative and to showcase their hard work to the school. Many students in the class are driven and plan to chase after Broadcasting Journalism as a career.

“My favorite thing about TV production is putting everything together and getting everything done. It just gives me a thrill of accomplishment and every time I see The Recap on Fridays, I can just say, ‘Hey, I did that!’” Weiner said.

WJAG has until the end of the school year to finish the video and with expectations held high, TV Production plans on working hard to make a video that will not disappoint.

So next year when classrooms sit down to watch the new Code of Conduct video, be proud and remember that it was a product of the WJAGTV crew of 2010-2011.

RESEARCH: Senior Mark Weiner looks up information for the TV Production’s version of the Code of Conduct video shown at the beginning of each school year.

Weiner is the director of the video and plans on starting to film in two months. photo by Niki Namazi

NEWS

6 MARCH 2011

theprowl

JROTC team regains focus MARKSMANSHIP, from page 1

make music for funds: Senior Sydney Weinberg and juniors Melissa Sandler and Maddie Flager perform a trio for Italian Night on February 23. The group played Badinage by Paul Koepke, just one of the many performances put on by the music association as entertainment for the evening. photo by Nick Kroeger

International night supports music Music association holds Italian night to raise funds, showcase musicians GABEGROSSMAN & THOMASGHEBREZGI COPY EDITOR & STAFF WRITER

On Wednesday, February 23, the Coral Glades Music Association hosted its sixth annual International Night. With this year’s theme set as Italian Night, band, orchestra, and color guard students all pitched in to help make this event one to be remembered.

A staff consisting of two hostesses, 10 stagehands, 20 waiters and servers, and 20 students each for set-up and breakdown helped the event to be put on with ease.

International Night brings in a good profit for the music program. Each student sold tickets to their family and friends.

Student admissions were five dollars, and ten dollars for adults.

With some of the most expensive performances for the program coming up, this fundraiser always helps a lot with the financial burden. Kaleidoscope of the Arts, or KOTA, stands as the most successful, and most expensive, show of the year.

Without the funds from International Night, this show might not be possible.

The students dressed in an Italian fashion, with outfits of green, white and red, to promote the theme. “Mr. Pizza,” a restaurant in Plantation, supplied the Italian food. Everyone in attendance enjoyed the baked ziti, penne with chicken and broccoli, salad, and garlic rolls. So much, in fact, that many people went for seconds after everyone was finished.

Throughout the night, emcees junior Cleyling Lassalle, senior Bryan Shapiro, and junior Gabe Grossman introduced the student performers, while adding some humor to the festivities.

While the emcees cracked a few jokes in between, the student performers were the real stars of the evening.

“Along with Gabe, I had been emcee for the last two International nights, so naturally I volunteered to do it again for

this one,” junior and Music Program Secretary Cleyling Lassalle said. “Bryan and I wrote the script during Orchestra class, as well as staying after school for a few hours to perfect it. We think people really enjoyed it, we had a great time.”

Music students had the opportunity to showcase their talents by performing solos or ensembles that they had been working on for quite a while.

“The event let performers show their talent to parents, faculty, and everyone in attendance,” senior and Music Program President Kelvin Medina said.

Vocal performances, a saxophone quartet, a trumpet trio, and many more acts were executed as well. Each performer worked extremely hard for this event, and to ensure that only the best acts were performed, music director Mr. Craig Haukebo had each one audition for him.

“Musicians prepared their pieces with the help of Mr. Haukebo,” Medina said. “He gave us negative and positive feedback, but mostly positive, of course.”

One of the highlights of the night was the band, The Fleet.

Made up of freshmen Dartanyan Melendez, Brendan Pafford, and Cole Crossgrove, the band was one of the most exciting performances. Almost the entire crowd was on their feet during the performances of the bands own original songs.

Accompanying the performances was a silent auction, featuring items such as gift cards to trendy stores, restaurants, and baskets filled with chocolate goodies. Participants in the auction bought their tickets, and hoped to hear their numbers called by the announcer.

Band mom Debbie Echeverria was the chairperson of the event, and with the help of the Music Association booster parents and the students, Italian night was one of the most successful music program fundraisers yet.

FCAT 2.0 changes standards For the first time, there will be no 9th grade Math Florida Comprehensive Assessment Test. Most high school freshmen will take a new, computer-based Algebra I end-of-course exam in May, which counts for 30 percent of their final grade. The end-of-course exams are statewide tests that students must pass to graduate.

For the 2013-14 school year, incoming freshmen will be required to pass Geometry, Algebra I and Biology end-of-course exams to graduate. This is in addition to passing Algebra II, Chemistry or Physics, and one other science course. The state also passed a new law that the three new end-of-course exams in math and science will replace math and science FCATS in high school.

FCAT 2.0 will be administered to students for the first time in mid-April, and FCAT 2.0 Science will arrive in spring 2012. It requires an upgraded reading exam for 3rd through 10th graders, which will include passages from historical documents and classical literature, and a revised math exam for students in 3rd through 8th grade.

These upgrades have been based on the state’s expectations for certain grade levels or the Next Generation Standards.

- Ashley Campo & Marissa Hullett

This adds up to a total of one hour for each team to shoot. In the first group Kariann Nguyen, Kirsten Coleman, Ashley Mesaros, and Natacha Rivera competed. Kyle Capano, Micah Moulton, and Marangleliz were on the second team. Coleman, Mesaros, Capano, and Moulton also competed in the biathlon portion of the competition, in which participants fire six shots in each position.

Despite strong efforts from the team, they did not manage to win any awards. Piper, Monarch, Stranahan, and Everglades High School did place. Rivera says this is partly due to the lack of concentration.

“We could’ve done so much better, but we weren’t concentrating,” Rivera said.

Still, the marksmanship team has had a great season earning a slew of chords and medals for their achievements. Unfortunately, the marksmanship team’s season ends at the county competition.

“To be on the team one must have determination and patience,” Rivera said.

Practices are typically every weekday and are held in the JROTC classroom. You must be a member of the JROTC program to be on the marksmanship team. Before joining the team you must pass the marksmanship exam with a perfect score or you will not be let onto the team.

Of course, when dealing with a sport as potentially dangerous as marksmanship the proper safety precautions are taken. During practice all of the proper safety measures are taken as if at an actual competition.

Goggles are worn during the entire practice and there is very restricted movement while shooting is going on.

Rivera is one of the leading shooters on the team and this is her second year on the marksmanship team.

Her best score at a competition was a 219 out of 300, but she shoots a consistent 240 during practices. This number is similar to the rest of the team’s overall scores.

As one of the more experienced shooters on the team, Rivera observes the marksmanship team at competitions and practices and is able to identify what their weaknesses are.

“We are a family and we understand our own strengths and weaknesses as well as those of our teammates,” Rivera said.

According to Rivera, one of the weak points of their team is some of their members scheduling conflicts which put a strain on the amount of practices the marksmanship squad can have. Despite this, the entire team is proud of the tremendous efforts the put forth at each competition.

“We always aim to win and do our very best,” Rivera said.

NHS volunteers, participates in Dodgeball tournament On March 5, National Honor Society participated in the seventh annual NHS and SGA dodgeball event at Lockhart Stadium.

NHS members competed with one team of six students against seventeen teams from eleven different schools around the county in a double elimination-style dodgeball game. This event allows NHS members to enjoy their experience while also giving back to charity. This year, NHS raised money for the Special Olympics charity.

Along with participation fees, NHS raised money by selling snacks at the event and provided referees for the games. Four NHS members were referees for the tournament.

The tournament also offered the NHS members the chance to be creative by allowing them to create their own uniforms for the team.

- Nadja Hibbert

theprowl

OPINION

150

theprowl

F E AT U R E D FA C T

The amount of money it costs to purchase Grad Bash tickets with unpaid senior dues and no additional class fundraising.

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MARCH 2011 7

UOTABLES “Administration should be more concerned with the people that do not come to school at all rather than the ones who get to the classroom two seconds late.”

- Jennifer Rojas, senior

CARTOON I DENISE LEAL

ALANNA BROWDY, Co-Editor-in-Chief MADDIE FLAGER, Co-Editor-in-Chief MOLLY SCHULSON, Managing Editor LAUREN KLITZ, News Editor MATTHEW TANNER, Opinions Editor TORI HARSTEIN, Life Editor ROHAN NADKARNI, Sports Editor JORDYN GRINNELL, Features Editor JENNIFER HOY, Layout Editor KAITLYN O’NEIL, Business Manager NIKI NAMAZI, Photography Editor GABRIEL GROSSMAN, Copy Editor JONATHAN GORDON, Adviser

Don’t worry. We won’t have to sell any of one else will! those donuts. I’m sure some

Staffers

TEMPLE BRAY RACHEL BRILL CRYSTAL CAMACHO ASHLEY CAMPO CHRISTINA CHARAN CAMERON COOPER ALANNA DEGOL ALEXIS MUNDY THOMAS GHEBREZGI BETHANY HERSHOWITZ NADJA HIBBERT MARISSA HULLETT BECCA MILLER TRISHA MCCUTCHEN

YONI MULLER BRIANNA PEYTON CIARA PEREZ PETRO SARAH PRUZANSKY GABRIELLE QUINTERO DIEANOUCHAKA REMY BROOKE SAVAGE MATTHEW SHEINBAUM ROHAN SHETTY ASIA TAIT GABRIELLE TACHER AMY WEISS SAMI WORTMAN

The Prowl welcomes letters to the editor. Letters must be signed. The staff reserves the right to edit letters for poor taste, libel, and space. These changes will not affect their meaning.

Opinions expressed in the paper are those of the individual writers or the staff and do not necessarily represent those of the administration, faculty, student body, adviser or advertisers. The Prowl is a member of the Florida Scholastic Press Association, the National Scholastic Press Association, and the Columbia Scholastic Press Association. Advertising which promotes illegal products under Florida law, includes false statements or is written in bad taste will not be accepted. The Prowl is an open forum for student expression. The Prowl is a 2009 CSPA Crown Award Winner and 2010 NSPA Pacemaker Winner.

The opinions of The Prowl do not reflect that of Broward County School District.

YOUR VOICE l LETTERS The whole lock-out situation is utterly ridiculous.

Administration should be more concerned with the people that do not come to school at all rather than the ones who get to the classroom two seconds late.

Jennifer Rojas senior

No, I do not have Jag Swag.

I do, though, have Jag pride because I am sane and have spent the last four years at this school. Our school’s budget needs to be used on more important and useful projects. The paintings do not make me any more spirited.

Albertt Scalone senior

Sports Funding

Class Chaos

Lock-Out Woes

I think that all of our sports teams need more supplies and accessories. Also, I think that the basketball team should take advantage of the gym machines that we never use. That is definitely something that could benefit us as a team.

Andres Robledo senior

Shedding Light

In last month’s paper, the column Mull it Over with Yoni Muller was very insightful. It taught me how I should not procrastinate, even though I probably still will. I look forward to reading more of Yoni’s columns in future issues of the paper.

Zach Rojas freshman

Wall Decorations

The new paintings on the walls are a waste of money.

Class choices should be done in the beginning of the school year. Students should be able to sit in any classes they choose for the first week of school to get an idea of what they really want to take.

A friend of mine told me that the same process is used at Harvard, where he goes to school.

Hirsh Maniar senior

Rise of the Machines

Someone really needs to do something about the vending machines. During the past few weeks, they have stolen money from multiple students all over campus and, to make things worse, the office ran out of the refund money. Not only do we not get the snack we wanted, but now we lose our money in the process.

Nykole McLeod senior

LETTER TO THE PROWL l ERIC XU

Juniors feel effects of low support

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hat is supposed to be the one of the most Xu was elected Junior Class president at the end of the memorable moments in everyone’s high last school year. His attempts to organize fundraisers school career? That is right, prom. The for the Class of 2012 have been met with varying prom date for this year’s seniors is May degrees of success due to apathetic students.

14. Their prom ticket prices have not been decided yet but about 15 people show up. Everyone was too busy washing their Grad Bash prices have been. The grad bash tickets cars and not many people could stand on the side of the are $130 if you have paid your senior dues and $150 if streets holding signs and collecting money. you have not. Kind of pricey, right? Well, do not blame Many of you reading this article are probably asking the Senior Class government. yourselves, “Why should I help raise money?” The answer Rebecca Miller has been the vice president of the is simple; it will benefit you in the end. The more money class of 2011 for the past three years. She has been that is raised, the lower the price of prom tickets will be. constantly working on fundraisers to help raise money for Let me put it like this, when prom time comes her graduating class. Miller has organized multiple car around, you will have to spend money just on getting washes and sold too many boxes of donuts to count. But she did not do it alone; she had the help of a few dedicated ready for prom. Most girls will buy a dress and shoes, pay to have hair and makeup peers. It was not easy, but she has done along with manicures raised enough money to lower and pedicures, and purchase the prices of senior events even boutonniere. Most guys will though they seem expensive. buy a tuxedo with shoes and The problem with students Current amount of Average number a corsage. Guys may also today is that they just do not care. money saved by the of students who pay for a date’s ticket. Both It is easy to relate to Rebecca junior class attend meetings guys and girls will most likely because my class is having the be paying for the bus that is same exact issue. It is the most taking you to prom too. All frustrating thing ever to try and of those items can add up to raise money for some 500 students Current number of a lot and having an expensive Goal for junior class who do not even care. When prom students in Coral funds by the end of ticket does not help. time comes around, I can already Glades class of 2012 this school year My officers and I do not hear the comments. “Why are Source: junior class adviser Niti Chhabra do this for fun. We do this for prom tickets so expensive?” and the benefit of the students in “I’m not paying that much just to our class. Not all students have the luxury of being able go to Grad Bash!” to afford all the aforementioned items for prom and the For those of you who do not know me, my name is Eric Xu and I am the President of the Class of 2012. Every cost of the ticket could put an even greater strain on them.

You only have one prom that is truly yours in your whole week my officers and I sell a minimum of two boxes of life. Do not deprive someone else of that experience just donuts each on Monday. We have been lucky enough to because you didn’t help raise money at a car wash or did have other students help us sell, but it is not enough. Last not sell a couple boxes of donuts. Everyone deserves to go week, we had 10 boxes of donuts left that were not taken by students. Now, I am not sure if I am crossing a line, but to prom.

The goal of writing this article is to try and get more is selling a box or two of donuts too much to ask for? students to help out when it comes to fundraising. This We have also organized social nights at local does not apply to just my class, but also to the sophomores restaurants like The Perfect Game, Tijuana Taxi and Bru’s and freshmen. If everyone does not help out, prom tickets Room. All people have to do is come out and enjoy food could possibly cost over $100 when it comes time to buy and a portion of the profits comes back to our class. We them. Grad Bash tickets could cost just as much if not try to get word around school about eating at some of the even more. If more students do not start helping out more, most delicious restaurants in Coral Springs but I guess then prom in the gym could become a reality. Now let me Wendy’s is considered to be a better “restaurant.” try this again, am I asking for too much when I ask people Car washes are also a huge money maker for us and to help us sell one box of donuts once a week? at our first one, we made over $600. But we only had

$2,000

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OPINION

8 MARCH 2011

LETTER TO THE PROWL A DA M W AT E R S

C A R T O O N I G A B R I E L L E TA C H E R

School paper topics too liberal

Quick, Junior is going on Tumblr again!

W

henever I see Sarah Palin on television, she’s either ranting about the liberal media or shooting deer from a helicopter. I won’t go into the inhumanness of her latter activity, but I would like to say something about the former. According to Conservapedia, arguably the most reliable source on the net, “liberal bias” is “a partisan selection or distortion of information to support liberal policies” which can be expressed by everyone from journalists to College Board exam writers. For a long time, I didn’t believe that there was such a thing as “liberal bias” in the media.

Reading The Prowl over the past few years, however, my opinion has changed. It seems that even our great school newspaper has succumbed to the secret liberal agenda.

Looking back over past issues of The Prowl, it is clear that the paper takes a decidedly liberal stance on many of the most controversial issues facing the nation.

For example, in the February 2010 issue, an editorial criticized the use of the First Amendment to protect hateful speech by the Westboro Baptist Church. Now, the Supreme Court has ruled by an eight to one decision that the First Amendment truly does apply to even the funeral protesters from Westboro. Just this year, The Prowl published an article in support of the legalization of marijuana. My problem with these editorials and others like them isn’t that they take a certain stance. I recognize that the purpose of an editorial is to express an opinion, and I completely respect the opinions of everyone at The Prowl. My problem is that these editorials often fail to see the complexity of the issues. There is a reason why the government hasn’t legalized marijuana yet. In fact, there are many reasons, including short-term health problems and the possibility of marijuana acting as a gateway to more serious illegal drugs. To completely disregard the other side of the debate is amateurish and wrong.

My critics will argue that if national newspapers and television stations can take a political stance, The Prowl should be allowed to as well. (See how I confronted the other side of the issue there?) I respond to this point of contention that there is a distinct difference between the spheres of national journalism and school journalism. On the national level, conservative and liberal news outlets exist, even though there is likely validity to the belief that liberal views dominate. Keith Olbermann can get away with labeling every single Republican in the United States as the “worst person in the world” because his influence is balanced by the spin of Bill O’Reilly’s No Spin Zone.

At Coral Glades, there is but one newspaper.

Therefore, The Prowl alone has the responsibility of reflecting the student body. An outsider might read the school newspaper and conclude that Coral Glades is filled with flaming liberals like Gil Feig, but this assumption is obviously very wrong. The editorials have not reflected the full scope of beliefs in our diverse scholastic ecosystem.

The Prowl does make an effort to show both sides of an issue on occasion. I applaud the inclusion of the “Point/Counter-point” format for the Don’t Ask/Don’t Tell opinion piece. I would like to see this format used more frequently. In addition, I think that The Prowl should more openly encourage responses to its articles.

Publishing the drama department’s letter to the editor in response to the review of The Wedding Singer was a bold move by the staff at The Prowl and proves that they are willing to hear dissenting opinions. Multi-sided columns and responses to editorials should not be the exception for politically complex issues, but the standard.

Ultimately, my purpose in taking up this otherwise well-used space is not to attack the staff at The Prowl for being too liberal. Instead, I wish to draw attention to the fact that, despite the validity of the opinions presented in the editorial section, there are equally valid opinions out there that receive little to no coverage in the newspaper.

I urge The Prowl to maintain its high standard of journalistic quality by introducing new editorial formats that allow for the presentation of a variety of stances.

Furthermore, I ask that the editorial writers take the time to recognize and respond to the opposing side’s arguments when forming their own. The Prowl must reform itself as a nonpartisan newspaper, if for no other reason than to ensure that Sarah Palin never has to set her crosshairs on Coral Glades.

theprowl

RED ALERT!

The Ultimate Spyware!: Parent Edition

TM

TECHNOLOGY SUPPORT l THOMAS GHEBREZGI

Spyware necessary for Internet safety

W

hen you hear the term “Spyware” it brings thoughts of deceit and treachery to the mind rather than sentiments like concern.

Often times, people misunderstand the purpose and uses of Spyware. It already has a negative connotation to it before people fully comprehend what it is. Before you can form an opinion, you have to know what Spyware is.

Spyware is a form of malware that can be installed on computers to collect tiny pieces of information about the user’s history. It is not limited to just monitoring, though.

Personal information and user habits can all be pulled from a computer where Spyware is installed. Reports can come in on a daily, weekly, or monthly basis or it can be set to whatever interval you want it to be.

Different forms of Spyware can exist on computers.

Parents can install it or robbers can use it to extract mass amounts of private information from your computer.

The question of whether Spyware is ethical or not has raged on since its conception in the early 2000’s. On one side, parents believe it is an invasion of their child’s privacy; while on the other side, people believe that Spyware could save your child from sexual predators and other harmful dangers present with the use of the Internet.

Again, Spyware is not used solely to insert yourself into every aspect of someone else’s life. It is used to ensure safety from the dangers of a machine that gives easy access to sexual predators and criminals. Allowing a child to operate on the Internet without supervision is risky.

It helps me to use this analogy: When driving a car, your parents make sure you have your seat belt on, right?

This is to let you do something that you enjoy, but is still potentially dangerous, while giving your parents peace at mind knowing that the seat belt could save your life in the event of an accident. Spyware serves the same role a seatbelt does. It acts as a safety net and nothing more.

There are even government agencies set up to monitor our e-mail and telephone conversations, listening to what is referred to as “dangerous chatter.” This could be for a potential terrorist plot or something of that sort.

So, why do we allow nameless agents to monitor our Internet activities and not our parents? Are the people in both cases looking out for our well being? And these

Ghebrezgi is a staff writer for The Prowl. He believes that the majority of students as well as parents do not understand the use of Spyware and students do not fully grasp what they believe is a right to privacy.

are our parents. The same parents who have loved us and cared for us since the day we were born.

Parents already play supervising roles in our lives anyways. They watch our grades, make sure we hang out with the right kids, and check to see that we eat all of our vegetables. What is one more thing?

Now an alternative that many parents turn to is site blocks, similar to the ones installed on school computers.

In some cases, this can be a successful way to protect kids from the dangers of the Internet without invading privacy.

Speaking as a kid myself, this is a joke.

Any half-wit can get around these Internet blocks and go to the sites previously blocked by their parents.

People may argue the right to privacy, but honestly how many kids know which amendment even grants them that right? I think a lot of kids try to hide behind the U.S. Constitution when they don’t know much about it at all and this is not right. By the way, the right to privacy is not mentioned in any amendment of the Constitution specifically, but the first, third, and fourth amendments (among others) incorporate the concept of a right to privacy.

Whether or not Spyware should be used is a circumstantial question and something that cannot be answered with a simple yes or no response. In most cases, I would answer yes, that parents have not only the right but it is their duty as guardians to shadow their kid’s Internet activities.

People should realize that in terms of Spyware, a parent is doing what they believe is best for their child.

The negative connotation of a word should not stop people from understanding its true meaning. Spyware affects privacy to help protect safety.

For the most part, I feel that kids are overly sensitive to the slightest invasion of their privacy and will do almost anything to preserve this sacred “right to privacy.” Parents may be annoying sometimes, but their child’s safety is at the heart of the action. This alone makes the problem of Spyware entirley tolerable.

Allowing your child to operate on the Internet without supervision is risky.

O P I N I O N

theprowl

MARCH 2011 9

T H E P R O W L O P I N I O N l EDITORIAL

Requiring interviews improves application process

Every year, seniors all across the nation apply to college. Applications for different colleges vary widely from simple forms to complicated ones full of personal information that require transcripts, test scores, essays, and letters of recommendation. Even with all of this information provided, the truth remains that colleges probably still do not know much of the personality of the student who applied.

Today, people want immediate responses to everything; this includes students applying to college. They want to know of their acceptance or rejection as soon as possible.

Colleges strive to fulfill this desire for a quick response to the applicants. Most seniors do not think about how the applications are gone through, though. The application gets turned in through the Internet and an answer gets back in no time. Some supply applicants with a response as quick as two weeks.

While it may seem commendable that colleges try to fulfill this dream, it still would be considered humanly impossible to go through as many applications as a school receives in that time frame, even if a large group of people went through all of the applications.

Assuming that colleges review each application individually and with the pressure of getting the response

back in a timely manner, the possibility that things get looked over grows and grows. This could go in the favor of the applicant or not. The person sitting there on the board in charge of selecting who will make the cut and become a future student has probably looked at a thousand applications before. In all likelihood they have been doing this for a while and suffer from boredom and would much rather be elsewhere. With the pressure remaining strong, applications are quickly skimmed through because they need to get through so many more in order to get the response back in time. The reader looks over the whole thing in a few minutes. Maybe they read over failed math grades for the past three years and the application gets slipped into the accepted pile. Maybe they catch the failed math classes, but missed the excellent as received in other classes. They could miss the extra curriculars like being an editor on the school paper, and a member of three other clubs. They may even miss the hard work spent on earning service hours. Instead, the application gets tossed into the pile of rejections.

Logically, schools receive thousands of applications for each semester. It would seem much more reasonable that they would use computers to get through the applications that would no doubt weigh tons if they were sent by paper.

SOCIAL TREND l ROHAN NADKARNI

They use some sort of system to filter people through by GPA, test scores or some other standard, but those things do not define a person. Some schools use this screening to knock off students who fall way below school standards. Of all the schools out there, the Ivy League schools that hold interviews with their applicants have the greatest chance of getting to know their applicants. The person holding the interview more than likely will not be the same person who went through the rest of the application. At least a representative from the school took the time to sit down and talk with the student who may eventually become a part of the university for the next four years.

Not every school can go to the same measure as that of an Ivy League school, but each student should be given a fair chance everywhere. The college should know the students that they admit just like the student should know the school that they apply to. A low ACT score does not make a student any worse than a student who scored a 36.

The reverse could also be true. Just because a student can get a top score does not make them a guarantee success in a university. There must be some middle ground between getting a reply back in a timely manner and the colleges taking the time to learn about whom they really admit.

BROOKE SAVAGE & K AT I E O ’ N E I L

Tattoo trend sends wrong message Award shows ignore

Over the years, tattoos have become more prevalent in society. Many people get the inscriptions as ways to show tribute to a loved one or significant moment in their life. However, the majority of tattoos are pointless, gaudy, and a pain to look at. Students also disregard the fact that the tattoos they place on their bodies now will be with them for the rest of their life.

The first main problem with tattoos is how they send the wrong message. Teens who are building up toward a future in the adult world should think twice before getting a visible tattoo that could affect another’s judgment.

Before we get into all the talk about prejudice, almost everyone will admit to having some kind of stereotype as to the type of people who get tattoos. Tattoos are also largely associated with gangs and other criminal activity.

Whether right or wrong, this view exists in society.

Students should be more aware of how they appear to adults and other students when they tattoo something like their name on their arm.

And honestly, unless you’re Guy Pearce from Memento, is there ever a good time to tattoo your name on your arm? Do these students need a reminder of their name every once in a while?

Students should realize there are better ways to represent their affection for a particular item than to get a tattoo.

It is more than okay to love your mother and father, but getting a tattoo of the word ‘family’ in Chinese characters up and down your forearm makes it look like you belong to a secret society more than it makes you look like a family man.

I love Dave Matthews, but would I tattoo his name across my back? (Actually…) For some reason, young minds (and some not so young) put it in their heads that a tattoo of something related to their favorite artist is the best way to prove their fanhood. I have a better idea, instead of spending hundreds of dollars on a giant chili pepper tattoo on their chest these people could buy their band’s music and not download it illegally.

The truth is tattoos will never go out of style. The idea of getting a tattoo will be seen as something ‘cool’ or ‘risky’ and can help people achieve their rebel status.

In fact, it is opinions like mine that fuels the rebel mania associated with tattoos. Students who endure the pain and get tattoos earn some sort of respect from the rest of the studentry.

I myself admit to be somewhat intimidated by students who walk around with large tattoos. Then again, I drive a Honda Fit and I belong to Mu Alpha Theta, so pretty much every student at the school is more intimidating than I am.

But at the end of the day, these tattoos serve no purpose. How many extremely successful people do we know with showy tattoos? I do not remember ever

Nadkarni is the sports editor for The Prowl. He thinks that most tattoos are not sending a message but instead are a form of ‘showing off’ amongst students who ignore the long-term implications of a tattoo.

hearing of Bill Gates walking around with a ‘Born 2 Hate’ tattoo plastered over his back. And LeBron James, was it necessary to cover your entire body in tattoos? Maybe The King should have spent less time in the tattoo parlor and more time working on his free throws (come on, Heat).

The number of professional athletes with an obscene amount of tattoos is startling.

These athletes also send the wrong message of correlating tattoos with success. When people are going to be in the public spotlight, they should be more mindful of how others will perceive what they put on their body. If Charlie Sheen started toting some serious ink on his body, I wonder if tattoos would be as popular.

Also, tattoos begin to look more and more ridiculous as people age.

The colors fade, the skin around the image wrinkles, and people start to wonder why grandpa has a tribal band around his bicep.

After years with the same tattoo, people will finally begin to realize the foolishness of getting ink permanently inscribed on the body. By then, the thought of sitting through the pain of having the tattoo removed is not worth the effort.

Not all tattoos should be considered horrible. Often times people do acquire ones that have a decent message or are a true tribute to a loved one. But for the most part, tattoos are pointless. In too many situations, teens look to tattoos as a sign of a higher status and as a way to look cool. Teenagers who are thinking about tattoos should be more mindful of what a tattoo says about them, and how it could affect their life in the long term.

Tattoos are a permanent investment. You have to prove to not only to the people you know now but to everyone else you meet in the future the merit of placing something like a tattoo on your body.

Rather than worrying about how cool it makes them look now, teenagers thinking about getting a tattoo should be more preoccupied with how they will be perceived later, and how that perception will change their life in the long run. A tattoo may seem like the perfect addition to your skinny jeans and beanie in 95 degree weather look now, but will you want that tattoo in a year? in 5 years?

A tattoo does not automatically mean a path to juvie and the life of a hoodlum. I agree that it is unfair to assume all students with tattoos are bad people with suspect intentions. However, students should seriously consider the long term before deciding to ‘ink up.’

Students should realize there are better ways to represent their affection for a particular item than to get a tattoo.

audience opinion

Many celebrities were honored for their hard work during the 2011 award season’s Oscars and Grammys. While some of the viewers may have been happy, others were left disappointed by the outcome. These dissatisfied viewers need to learn how the award process works. Even though the audience may consider some of the winners to be ‘random,’ they may not be so random to the expert judges who selected them. Most award ceremonies do not get chosen by the public at large, but by the professionals in that medium.

When the average person goes to the movies or listens to music they look to be entertained. Naturally, people would want the most entertaining thing to win. On the other hand, entertainment value and popularity do not contribute to the way the awards are handed out. Individuals making the selections for nomination look beyond the current fad.

Instead, they look for things that the average viewer takes for granted. For songs, they may pay close attention to the lyrics, the quality of the song, instruments being used and so on. For movies, they may watch for cinematography, effects, and screenwriting.

The voting process for the Grammys begins when companies start to submit the material that they would like to be considered. After viewing the submissions, they get divvied up into their specific categories. The categories are then judged by people who have expertise in that area.

People who really get into the award ceremonies need to be aware of this. When talking about who should have won the award, viewers need to put aside their personal preference and look at the details from a different standpoint. When analyzing every submission, fans should make a proper analysis instead of just deciding on what they thought was great with no reasoning behind it.

Some awards, however, are judged by the general population. People are given the perfect opportunity to make a difference. Awards such as the People’s Choice Awards allow the viewing community to choose. Anyone can feel free to express their opinions through the power of voting.

Choosing which celebrity gets to be honored becomes the best part of it. So complain, debate, and be stubborn; at the end of the day it will not matter, because the person who sat there and clicked the vote button the most times won.

To some, watching a celebrity who they may consider to be ‘random’ winning an award may be surprising. Their name may be unknown to the majority, but for some awards, the majority really has no say. There are different awards ceremonies that are based on popularity and expertise.

This seems like a good balance of award ceremonies. Just because the majority likes the music, sometimes knowing that a group of experts chose the award may seem honorable to an artist or actor. Their work becomes recognized by people who can actually help them improve, rather than just getting input from a group of people who never really pay attention to the technicalities of the music or movie.

10 MARCH 2011

O P I N I O N

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United States rose N CN l ra and watch tside of Co , gas prices in the ou oil rm on tu es e go th at to e wh Du s on average. be aware of ices raised 17 cent ers are more pr Students need to ag er en Te um . ns es at Co St ly. d ep ste the Unite king sites, such as an Springs, and ever ilized social networ s of miles away th ut nd ns sa tia ou yp th ts. Egyptians Eg ing en happ ad the news of rio re sp to r, affected by events itte Tw d ok in Facebook an tion in the riots on Facebo they think. ed about the situa res and videos of m tu ch as or pic su inf d , be es ste tri to po s un ed co le East ion of other idd Every teen ne nt M te e at e Th th st. e ur Ea pt le ca iat order to not apprec e a, and the Midd n government did cade. In January tia Egypt, North Afric de yp st pa Eg e e th Th r . fo ica Amer h the computer. of decline information throug ypt. has been in a state Eg ing of lay re al re pit ns ca ize e cit th , their in Cairo et usage. This seve 2011, riots formed ed to control Intern risingly peaceful. pt m rp m fro su te le at re op ey we pe th ts , ht rio us ug y Th days, but it ca Unable . e 30 fiv These revolutionar d of te e las ag e ly th on r counterattack rioters were unde arak, guard.

The majority of the esident, Hosni Mub pr eir ployment th of around the world off hip rs ation and high unem fed up with uc re ed we ty h to tolerate the leade ali e ut qu yo n or tia po With ent of Egyptians liv eets. The Egyp ffering. Forty perc began their su ey they took to the str e th ar d, ns re tia we yp po Eg . rate rates, d feeling em % of them are illite Mubarak’s lies, an a day and about 30 $2 ese th on of e . ar wn om aw do ed arak stepped quest for fre ens need to be ub te M n , ent ica hip er rs to Am ta dic States, unemploym e After thirty years of Even in the United eme Council of th . s pr es er Su nc ag e en sta Th . te m 11 of cu n ry cir brua the y’s generatio of l da ro to nt n co he as president on Fe W ok h. to ly hig . rates are too ypt’s military, quick s similar to Egypt’s s.

Armed Forces, Eg too may face a crisi r at least six month to be ey fo l th ed , ro ne nt up co ey ow th in gr y, be ar ll ilit ns, not to join the m ize es cit sh government and wi e wi lik nt ed case de at in , stu tre a es If nt to be r countri Egyptian youth wa eractions with othe what they believe int r ’s fo ica ing er ey ht th fig Am d, e of un e inu awar ary bo ed to cont student is not milit down. subjects. They ne r erupts. Even if a n signs of backing wa ow a sh t . no ws eir th ve ne e nt ha th ro in, and they ted to conf -to-date on should still stay up rs were first motiva dull and curred oc at Egyptian protesto th ia the news may seem nis e, Tu nc in gla ts st rio fir e At th t not impact a ou ab ing esident orldly events may Pr W t. an no ric leaders after learn is Af it t ay bu aw , nt unimporta nisians chased tians s they might. early in January. Tu acefully. After Egyp w, but in a few year pe no ite en qu te i the Jersey Shore, Al n Be ya, and as entertaining as Lib , be Zine El Abidine t ain no hr on ay Ba , m en N m CN e of what is going youth of Ye portant to be awar own tired of their started rioting, the im gr ve ely m ha tre le ex op is Pe it but eir lead. s.

Jordan followed th manding their right around them. de w no e . ar ya d Lib an dictators Benghazi, in d te up er ts rio t In February, violen r Tunisia Bahrain protesters d on demands foof n Riots erupted base About 3000 tio up rr co to d en employment and r. injured, hundreds government powe imprisoned

J

Libya

25%

of students are Middle unaware of the rest East’s political un

In the midst of a deadly battle over oil control that is severely affecting its world trade partners

Egypt

Death count up to ts nearly 400, protes e continu

37%

at of students feel th ll these problems wi n. gio re e th fit ne be

65%

of students are e worried about th outcome of the situation lled

200 students po

Yemen

Uprising steadily increasing, future uncertain

fi

Gadda MuammarLIB YA

mplete political Gaddafi has held co 1969. Following ce power in Libya sin other Middle Eastern the revolutions in countries this February, many on g nin protests broke sters BeginLibya launched Libyan Prothte, th out around the of le op pe e s ion at February 15 nt ro nf country against co d ts an a series of protes-year long rule of dictator Gaddafi due to against the 42 ddaffi. The US has claims that Ga Muammar r fo fi af dd the government Ga d ne since sanctio rce against had 24 his use of fo people killed Hosni civilians. ak by gunfire.

MubarYP in Egypt in e EG T fic of He has ial nt ide es the pr in Egypt, ing ris up been Mubarak took over of s ek ly three we 11, blamed 1981. After neard down as president on February ed for Mubarak steppe the Supreme Council of the Armin Saudi misuse of shifting power torrently being treated for cancer mily. government Forces. He is cu der a travel ban along with his fa power.

Arabia and is un

source: New York Times

theprowl Drafted to serve

BY AMY WEISS

f any of you reading are in Mrs. Kitchner’s, Mrs. Kessler’s, Mrs. McGinley’s or Mrs. Linhart’s science class, you can thank me and my friends for the beautifully laid out decor.

Four days before the start of the school year, we got personally acquainted with the science department.

We got up very early (like seven o’ clock) on days we could be sleeping in to go in and decorate while the teachers had before school planning meetings.

In this time we covered and stapled eight bulletin boards with giant poster paper, used two rolls of painters tape putting up all the educational posters, and constructed a nice environment for the paper monkeys to hang in Mrs. Kessler’s room.

If you are wondering why we were doing this (although most people do enjoy creating habitats for monkeys) the simple explanation is service hours. Students tough it out to help the community and hope of someday graduating with at least forty hours.

Service hours are new to freshmen since we have never had to deal with them before. The only chance anyone got to earn them in middle school was if you were in National Junior Honor Society.

For that, members got service hours for bagging Publix popcorn once a week into smaller bags and selling each for a dollar.

In high school the service projects have gotten more serious and are a greater help to the community. Instead of waiting to get service hours by cramming in completely odd and strange activities during my senior year, I decided to start bright and early. As early as two months before high school adventure even started.

It turns out in order to get service hours you have to do some sort of service. Over summer I served food to senior citizens at the Daniel Cantor Senior Center. As glamorous and appealing as I made that sound, it gets better, I had to wear an apron, gloves and the most repulsive hair net known to man. The gloves do not even protect your hands from the hot burners hidden on the sides of the counters that my fellow volunteers and I were never warned about. The little old people were adorable asking if they can have another extra bun, but I soon found out serving the elderly was not my calling.

Never in my life would I have thought that my decision to go to school on a Saturday would be voluntary. Especially since it was for twelve debate-filled hours. I woke up bright and early at a friendly 6:30 to volunteer at school only to return home again at seven o’clock at night. Originally on my way over to the school, cinnamon bun in hand, I thought I would be starving for hours.

In reality my day consisted of waiting for all the debaters to show up for the first hour. Then, throughout my helping people find their way (and getting complimentary snacks), a girl stumbled upon me who was assigned to debate in none other than a boy’s bathroom. The fact that she was not allowed to go in was not the only problem. Once I helped her into a room for all genders, I was given a room to make sure no one ate or threw anything away in and ended up watching the same routines four times each. At least I learned about different events at these tournaments. I can even reenact various Duo competition acts.

Some Thursdays, I volunteer to sort books at the Temple Beth Orr library. This would be an easy task if the books had not been dumped by people not interested in them anymore and into boxes that filled an entire room. So we had to trudge through the mountain and decide which ones were actually readable and which were disgusting moldy books.

It was not that hard to tell the difference but it took at least four visits to the library.

All of these things were done not only for the sake of my nowhere near ready graduation status, but to also help and give back to the community.

Doing these service hours had a couple of perks, I now believe in karma because while volunteering at the library I came across Cliff Notes for all future English class novels.

theprowl

JAGWIRE

MARCH 2011 11

identity Lack of uniforms in schools creates stereotypes causing cliques to form that take away from individual students’ true identity

by Samantha Wortman

G

theft

rowing up is about developing a sense of self- if you stripped the baseball team of their jerseys and the “Spanish” identity; equally important in the process, though, is wall of their selected attire, you would discover evident similarities. to develop a sense of group identity, and part of this If one of the teens from either of these groups made an effort to get is most evident in what we wear. We relate to people to know one another, they would start a trend of their own. This initially through their external appearance and what we wear says school needs teens like this, the ones who have the courage to break the barrier. something about us.

Imagine, hypothetically, today is everyone’s first day at Coral When a student wakes up in the morning, walks over to his or her wardrobe and decides what he or she is going to wear, the outfit Glades and no one has ever met their fellow classmates. There is is not chosen at random. There is a specific reason why the student a uniform policy in effect; the boys must wear teal, black or white chooses to wear the clean cut Ralph Lauren polo instead of a black starchy polos with khakis and the girls must wear skirts with a school-colored polo. Introductions and conversations would have Metallica tee. to exist between all types of teens; one would not By wearing the polo, the student is illustrating to society that he or she wants to be identified with Uniforms open up a gravitate to another because he is wearing a Math club shirt. the type of crowd who enjoys wearing “heavily gateway for teens to In effect, teenagers would realize that we all pressed” khakis and cargos. Essentially this student is creating a brand of themselves and in the process interact and become have something in common, maybe it is a love for John Hughes’ movies, or even deeper, both of the taking on the societal norms of this “preppy” group. compassionate students are experiencing a gut-wrenching divorce Since this teen’s friends are most likely similarly because they are at home. Taking away the number one identifier dressed, the chance that teen will branch out and make a new friend outside the clique is unlikely. socializing with a to who we are, our clothes, allows for students to face adversity that would otherwise have lain Let’s say someone sees a girl, who does not diverse group of dormant. Uniforms open up a gateway for teens to look much like a girl at all, simply because her body students. interact and become compassionate because they is acting like a hanger to an XXL baggy tee shirt. are socializing with a diverse group of students.

The thought most likely to pop into someone head When students see a plaid school uniform, their first thought is “She is a tomboy who does not know the difference between the women’s and men’s sections in a clothing store.” That assumption is most likely negative. According to Psychology Today, statistics may be spot on, but more times then not it is far from the truth. This now show that making students don uniforms actually reduces “tomboy” may be using the XXL baggy tee to cover up her body’s school crime. In 1995, parents in Long Beach, California, decided imperfections and this someone is writing this kind of girl off. A that issuing uniforms to students would steer the classroom focus girl with the same concerns could be concealed under a turquoise away from bearing “A-List” clothes and back to learning. The Abercrombie sweatshirt, but the two-nearly identical girls would numbers matched up: since they issued uniforms five years ago, overall crime in the school district has dropped by an astonishing never cross paths.

If teenagers all have this in common, we should all be in 91 percent. Suspensions are down 90 percent, sex offenses have cahoots with each other. Sadly, that is not the case. If you took a decreased by 96 percent, and vandalism has reduced by 69 percent.

Teens need uniforms. In fact, if they are not provided, students snap shot of Coral Glades before 7:40 in the morning, there is a clear division between “different” cliques. Almost all the boys on will create uniforms for themselves. Our generation, it seems, is not the baseball team are not mingling by the so-called “Spanish” wall. fully capable of this yet and cannot create a positive image for their While both groups believe they are polar opposites of each other, clothing and themselves.

Sydney Weinberg senior

Taylor Bilecki freshman

Brandon Haire senior

“It used to bother me that people called me ‘band geek’ because I used to not like being under the nerdy stereotype.”

“I don’t care how other people see me, I’m this way because I want to be, and I am proud of that.”

“It doesn’t matter that I am considered a jock because I want to be remembered as a good football player.”

Band Geek

Prep

Jock

F E AT

12 MARCH 2011

“

I don’t feel there are guys and girls things, there shouldn’t be a define line between what a ‘girl’ does and what a ‘guy’ does.

-Angela Andreisse, English Teacher

75%

of teachers in the United States are female while less than 25% of teachers are males.

Males reveal hidden thoughts Teenage guys clear up unknown perspective on females, peer pressure

by Gabe Grossman

T

he male perspective ranges based on person to person, but most guys have a similar outlook on the basics. Even though most do not want to admit it, the thing teenage males think about most is the opposite sex.

“High school is pretty much the time for girls” junior Joey Wiggins said.

“The common misconception is that teenage guys are looking for someone to make ‘things happen,’ but most of us actually care about the girl, and we have a great relationship.”

No guy wants to fall behind, or even risk not being at the level of experience that his friends are at.

Comparisons are constantly being made, and with those comparisons come assumptions, which are usually untrue but people believe them anyway.

High school is a giant competition for most males.

Who can get better grades, make more money, or be

with the best looking girl are just a few. The loser of any of these competitions becomes self-conscious in that area, and either tries to improve, or give up.

Behind females, the second most important thing to most males is sports.

Professional and school athletic games are the highlights and main topic of conversation for teenage males.

“I grew up around sports because my dad is a huge baseball fan and my mom went to Ohio State University which is a big football college,” freshman Justin Fogel said. “Now I’m really into almost all sports.”

Most guys are only concerned about things they are doing in the present, while not as worried about the future. Thoughts include plans for the weekend and how to ask that girl out.

“Were not all the same though,” Wiggins said.

“Get to know a guy before assuming what’s going on in his head, you’ll be surprised.”

“

MOST OF US ACTUALLY CARE ABOUT THE GIRL, AND WE CAN HAVE A GREAT RELATIONSHIP,”

Joey Wiggins junior

Girls Football Wide Receiver

Females make flag football their own

> Chelsie

Boys Football Wide Receiver

Flag football started out as a neighborhood recreational sport before achieving its status as a professional when the U. S Flag Touch Football League was established in 1988. The reason flag football is seen as a female sport is because of its lack of physical contact.

“Regular football is a much more aggressive sport than flag football,” junior Kayla Vassel said. “Flag football is better for girls because it is less dangerous.

Especially for girls who, if they get injured, will lead to more serious consequences like birthing defects.”

Besides the level of contact there isn’t a huge difference between the two sports. According to Vassel both female and male athletes can have the same level of determination and skill in both of their fields.

-Thomas Ghebrezgi

> Robert

Kazanjian

“Flag football is fun and we have a lot of good times together.

This is a horrible stereotype because girls can do anything just as easily as guys can, including football. I’m not sure if I’d ever want to be on a tackle team though.”

Roach

n Sophomores Victoria Padilla, Kathryn Labrador and senior Nicole Tillman practice

their plays at Flag Football practice after school.

“I feel like girls can do anything. I am not a sexist person but football may be a lot harder for them to handle. Dedication is key, a lot of hard work is required. It is time consuming and you need good work ethic. In the end, it all pays off.”

MARCH 2011 13

URES

$179

million more dollars are given to male athletes in athletic scholarships each year than their female counterparts.

5.2%

of the 2.1 million Registered Nurses employed in the United States are male.

Feminine views similar to male Female students give insight on their thoughts of sports, relationships

“

WE JUST GET EVERYTHING DONE AND DON’T ASK QUESTIONS,” Melissa Sandler junior

Female Chef

> Kristen

Ferguson

“I really don’t like these stereotypes especially because our teacher is a male.

I feel guys are just as capable of being good cooks as any girl is. Some males are really successful in the cooking industry such as Emeril and Bobby Flay.”

by Alanna Browdy

A

t least once in their life, a teenage girl experiences heartbreak from her significant other.

“I think that we just expect guys to know if we are feeling something and don’t say it,” junior Meagan LeBeoff said. “I try to put myself in my boyfriend’s shoes and I always try to understand his views and think the way he does.”

Relationships aside, females agree that their outlook on different matters vary greatly from males.

“One thing we definitely think about differently than guys is academics,” junior Ashley Forlenza said.

Forlenza is taking several APs this year including AP Chemistry. She finds that the boys in her class are often too competitive and that girls have a much more simple outlook on school.

“We just get everything done and don’t ask questions,” junior Melissa Sandler said. “Girls may

Male cooks break old-fashion stereotype The Coral Glades culinary program offers four years of classes plus extra opportunities for young chefs to learn the starting skills needed for future professions.

Once seen as a stereotype for women, cooking has now expanded to both male and female chefs. Culinary instructor Robert Desabatino has never experienced the stereotype but is happy that he can inspire other male chefs.

“When I was working in the business 25 years ago, it was all men,” Desabatino said. “I think everyone should do what their god given talents are. If you’re a man that can’t cook, that’s that. If you’re a woman who can’t cook, that’s that.” n In preparation for an even, junior Austin McKenna chops celery for a house -Alanna Browdy salad in the culinary room during 6th period.

be more emotional under stress, but we just get it done without questions asked.”

Another issue that plagues the female mind more than males would think is athletics.

“I think guy sports are much more respected and admired and girl sports are overlooked,” freshman Gabby Giordano said. “I love talking about sports and watching games as much as the next guy does.”

Giordano also observes that people do not take girl sports as seriously as displayed by lack of attendance at school games.

“I think girls play a much more respected, competitive game because we take the game very seriously.”

Though some claim it is impossible to read the female mind, teenage girls agree that it is very simple to figure out what they are thinking.

“It shouldn’t be hard for especially guys to get inside of our minds,” Forlenza said. “We’re honestly not complicated at all.”

Male Chef

> William Carr

“Most people think that girls are the only ones who can cook in the kitchen but I love going home and being able to make a sandwich without having to have a women do it for me.

I have been cooking for years.”

LIFE

14 MARCH 2011

theprowl

ANIMANIACS Pirates director ventures into animation with success

A

MATTHEWTANNER OP/ED EDITOR

Winnie the Pooh

>> Due to his busy schedule, Johnny Depp was nearly forced to back out of Rango.

Determined to star in the film, Depp recorded his entire role in twenty days.

fter walking away from another potential billion dollar Pirates of the Caribbean film, director Gore Verbinski decided to write a story, along with John Logan (Gladiator), about a lonesome chameleon who finds himself stranded in the desert of Nevada. Pirates star Johnny Depp voices the titular character in this odd new animated film, Rango.

Rango, following his separation from his owners, travels west after advice from a wise armadillo he encounters on the road. He later finds himself in a western town called Dirt, populated by desert animals in the midst of a drought that has everyone desperate for a single drop of water. This is not the town’s only problem, though, as it is tormented by a hawk looking to eat anything it can find.

Rango, an aspiring actor, decides to take on the role of the hero and defeats the beastly hawk, earning himself the title of Dirt’s Sheriff. It then becomes his job to find water to save the citizens of Dirt and become a legend in the town. Part of his motive, though, is his attempt at winning over the affection of Beans (Isla Fisher), a lizard who provides food to the small town.

This film’s unique western theme makes it stand out among other animated films. It also allows for references to many great westerns, including an animated cameo from a famous character.

With Rango, Verbinski proves his talents in the craft of animation, as he captures the maturity that usually only Pixar films succeed in doing. Rango’s adventures include aspects of heroism, self-discovery, and love, which Nickelodeon films normally do not delve in to. Though it is early in the year, Rango could likely end up being the front-runner for Best Animated Feature come next awards season.

The abstract characters present in the film give Rango a similar tone that is found in most Johnny Depp movies. It allowed for Depp to once again be a standout actor, even when he can only be heard. Depp previously voiceacted when he worked on Tim Burton’s Corpse Bride in 2005.

The only problem with Rango was the absence of a serious emotional

side. If the film was a Pixar production, it would have been deeper and likely would have been able to make a certain 6’4” man cry. (If you did not shed a tear during Up or Toy Story 3, you have no soul.)

Rango’s 38 million dollar opening weekend reveals the Verbinski-Depp team to be just as big of a guaranteed box office winner as Depp’s frequent collaborations with director Tim Burton. Time will tell if these numbers continue to stay high, which could be a sign for a potential sequel.

ANIMATION

NATION Live-action comedies have taken a serious hit over the past year with the increased interest in animated films. The last original live-action comedy to gross over 100 million dollars was Grown Ups in June 2010, while five 2010 animated films each grossed half a billion dollars.

It seems that the only way for a comedy to make money nowadays without turning to animation is making sequels or signing Adam Sandler onto a project.

When people go to the movies, it is a chance for them to escape normalcy for two hours and engage in another world.

Animated films take this even further, as they create an alternate universe, far from reality (even further than Inception). They can do something that other films usually cannot, by being visually incredible whilst playing with the audience’s emotions.

What makes these films great is the way that they allow people to enjoy odd characters while following a deep story.

This is what always brings the anticipation every year to so many animated movies.

2011 becomes another year focused on animation. Some promising upcoming animated films include the Jesse Eisenberg and Anne Hathaway-starring Rio (April 15), Pixar’s first follow-up to its 2006 hit Cars (June 24), the Jack Blackvoiced sequel Kung Fu Panda 2 (May 26), Winnie the Pooh’s titular feature film, and the long awaited big screen adaptation of The Smurfs (August 11).

Less promising films include the childish Hop (April 1).

Kung Fu Panda 2

>> The Toy Story franchise generated nearly $2 billion dollars worldwide at the box office. Toy Story shorts will be attached to several movies during the summer.

Hop

Rio

HHHH BOTTOM LINE: Johnny Depp lends his voice to this animated western, which already stands out as the best of 2011.

Rango

images from imdb.com

theprowl

LIFE

I promise to write better

I promise to write better

I promise to write better I promise to write better

Penmanship: Dead and Gone

>

Handwriting learned in third grade evolves into a mixture of slanted and sloppy to bubbly and animated, disregarding the art of penmanship

PENMANSHIP, from page 1

One of the main factors for this lies in the fact that keyboards and monitors have replaced pens and paper as primary writing tools. People tend to have a distinctive style of handwriting, and most develop quite messy, a bit sloppy, and almost never in cursive.

Educators theorized that children learn to read by looking at books, which print in standard manuscript. Thus, they correlate what they have read to what they put on paper, causing them to write in print instead of the previously learned cursive. If books happened to be written in cursive when the present student population first began to read, a greater number of students today would undoubtedly have cursive handwriting.

Traditional cursive decreases with each day in middle school classrooms. Most students have trouble with it, so teachers adopt a simpler style known as Italic or “print cursive.”

15 percent of students who took the SAT in 2006 wrote the essay in cursive while all of the others wrote in print. Neat handwriting has been proven to give students better communicating skills by facilitating the process of turning thoughts into ink. However, despite the advantages of technology, keys and monitors have replaced pens and paper.

Most have forgotten how to write in cursive because schools do not require it, and teachers frequently assign work to students with the requirement of it being typed. Joysticks and keyboards ruin a child’s ability to hold a pencil properly, let alone write legibly.

> Penmanship Tips 1. Avoid loops 2. Close up the tops of letters 3. Avoid the “thumb wrap” or a “death grip” when holding the writing utensil 4. Avoid relentless connection of letters 5. If connecting letters connect with no change in the letter shape

“Typing is better. I feel like the students put more time and effort into it when they type,” english teacher Veronica Cloyd said.

“There is more room for comments as well.”

The death of penmanship has even leaked into common conversation, especially text messaging. An exceptionally high number of teenagers will admit to typing “OMG” instead of “Oh My Gosh”. “Talk to you later” changed

MULL I T OVE R with Yoni Muller

Eighteenth birthday a milestone event, but should be celebrated responsibly There are thousands of differences between each and every one of us human beings, the very differences that individualize us and make us who we are. And yet, we, as a collective society, tend to hold certain things in constantly high regards. Recipients of such universal social glorification include, but are not limited to, weddings, Tamagotchi , Rugrats, and John Stamos’s hair.

However, perhaps none of these are cherished quite like a person’s 18th birthday. It is during this year that children become adults, that teenage dependents gain their first true freedom; that boys become men – or at least that’s what the doctor told me.

Society has always held a special place in its heart for 18th birthdays around the world, and I have good reason to believe this will never change. Unfortunately, and I’m afraid to say it for fear of Obama popping up here, but maybe this is one of those times where we should welcome the change.

Right off the bat, we see how special a birthday is by the celebrations. Sure, some people throw lavish parties for their 13th, 15th, or 16th birthday, and if you’re lucky, yours will be

to “TTYL”, and “By the way” has become “BTW.” These slang words were created by lazy teenagers who will take the time to post paragraphs on each other’s Facebook walls, yet do not have the time to type out entire words, or write in proper handwriting.

The teaching of cursive writing has gone from an obligatory lesson for elementary school children to the bottom of the priority list. Teachers do not take points off for poor handwriting, so grades remain unaffected.

All of the years that elementary school teachers spent on teaching a special kind of penmanship has gone down the drain. The handwriting learned in third grade has evolved into a mixture varying from slanted and sloppy to bubbly and animated. Society overall has become lazy and too dependent on spell check.

A recent survey by Textplus revealed that 29 percent of teens admit to using text shorthand in written school assignments. Assignments and essay questions on tests, finals and even college entrance exams continue to exist, so penmanship must exist too. The writing portion of the SAT exam requires students to write an essay by hand in 25 minutes.

Activities that can contribute to improving handwriting consist of holding a number of paper clips, burying pennies in play dough, and using chopsticks. This improves motor skills and hand strength that are necessary for legible handwriting.

Penmanship is a dying art form. The value of a hand-written note goes far beyond that of an e-mail.

lavish enough that MTV will film it, including the part where you cry because you’re spoiled. However, these really only apply to specific demographics (Jewish people, Hispanics, and girls,) yet lucky number 18 is celebrated to the point of excess without fail by almost everyone. Huge parties are thrown, trips are taken, and criminal records are started thanks to the festivities.

In my own social circle alone we see the new world that Age Eighteen brings to us. It’s at this age that my brother, Coral Glades alumnus Gabriel Muller, got all of our family heirlooms as gifts – leaving me with none. However, he did partially make up for it by providing me with my own outlandish birthday present – a trip to Baltimore to see Elton John perform. Other truly incredible 18th birthday celebrations include Greg Foster’s time spent at Gainesville, Matt Sheinbaum’s future lottery jackpot prize (we’ll get ‘em next time buddy), and Sam Rojas’s present, one leap from an airplane at 14,000 ft. – yes, I’m seeing Elton John and my girlfriend is going skydiving; insert your “who wears the pants” jokes here.

Even national governments succeed in glorifying this transition from teenager to one-year-older-teenager. Right here, in our very own United States of America, people aged 18th and older are allowed to drive at any time at night, gamble away the money they earned at Publix, and bring on their first selfinduced asthma attack with a Marlboro. They’re even allowed to act socially awkward at clubs like Dayglow and make terrible decisions with a presidential ballot. In other nations around the world, eighteen-year-olds are allowed to drink alcohol.

(America has the highest drinking age of any developed country in the world. Just wanted to point that out.)

However, there is a line between celebrating a significant

MARCH 2011 15

Writing the Facts: 7%

of third graders are using Italic, whose printed letters are “semi-connected” with small tails.

9 out of 10 teachers reported that they were devoting an average of 70 minutes per week to the teaching of handwriting.

15% of students who took the SAT in 2006 wrote the essay in cursive while all of the others wrote in print.

90%

of Americans between the ages of 5 and 17 use computers. It’s not uncommon for kids to type 20 or 30 words per minute by the time they leave elementary school.

29%

of teens admit using text shorthand in their written school assignments.

milestone, and making milestones out of “meterpebbles.” Is that what we’re doing here? Let’s remember, Justin Bieber is only a year away from joining this group of “adults,” whose members, which are meant to signify responsibility and maturity, include Lindsay Lohan, Bobby Brown, the entire cast of Jersey Shore, Paris Hilton, Carrot Top, and many more than I care to name or you care to read – because I’m sure that otherwise you’d love to read what I wrote. Perhaps society has placed too much stress on turning 18, and less on other important birthdays, like the 16th and the 21st.

My point is this: certain freedoms and privileges come with age, and they are meant to be enjoyed and utilized. However, age is just a number, and many of these privileges command a great deal of responsibility – maybe more than some young adults actually have.

Social stress on the importance of living 18 years seems to override the true importance of the maturity and caution that people ought to develop in those 18 years.

We cannot mold society to conform to individual behaviors, but we can mold individual behaviors to conform to society.

Therefore, to anyone turning 18 (or any other age with new freedoms for that matter) I say to you only this: enjoy yourself to the fullest, but be responsible. You have been given a great new privilege, not a right.

I’m all for good fun and mischief, last week I even spoiled my appetite with cookies and cheated in Monopoly, but fun must come third to both safety and responsibility. Please demonstrate good judgment in your life choices, because a 19th birthday is much more fun with your estate not gambled away and you not in a hospital or prison.

O P

LIFE

16 MARCH 2011

theprowl

The

Pod

Juniors market online show created in technology class

by Amy Weiss

In Mr. Dustin Dillings’ second period technology class, a group of junior boys have banded together to form The Pod, a web show that portrays the typical high school experience.

“We started [The Pod] to show people what happens in high school,” junior and co-writer of the show Ashton “AJ” Joyce said.

The Pod started one month after this school year began, with a cast consisting of juniors Jack Byrant, AJ Joyce, Bryan Sirota, Alex Kline, Ryan Cowan, Connor Dunne, Kristopher Carvalho, and Sam Chiong—or JABDARKS, as they like to call themselves. Since their cast includes no one with a D name they inserted a “duck” into the acronym.

“We’re a bunch of kids that mess around and we were like, ‘why don’t we record it?’” video editor Dunne said.

In the beginning, The Pod had only short clips made, but then they progressed to creating full length episodes. Each video is around eight to ten minutes long and one is released every two weeks. The members usually decide on an idea for the video and improvise. The initial concept for the show was a combination of That 70’s Show and The Office.

“They are learning about video editing and it is very beneficial learning how to record and broadcast the show,” Dillings, also known as the “Pod God”, said. “It’s intensive.”

Shows have ranged from T h e Pod Dating Show to a Halloween episode.

M o r e

recently they had a talent show where students with good and not so great talents competed to be one of the top six to “not go to Hollywood, Florida.”

“It’s a hilarious train wreck,” Dillings said.

Once they had the material for the show, The Pod started getting ambitious.

And now, the group is looking ahead.

“We basically all just want to eventually have The Pod episodes watched each week by most of the school like The Recap. We want a good fan base,” Dunne said.

Their Facebook page currently has over 200 followers where students can access the show’s latest and previous episodes. There is also information about buying their most recent addition: The Pod t-shirts.

“Facebook seemed to be the best target market and it was the easiest way to do it,” Joyce said.

Though this does not seem like a typical technology course offered at most schools, the boys are in Technology 3 computer software engineering, satisfying the class requirements.

“Producing a short video satisfies the [class’s] requirements,” Dillings said.

“It’s a show, it’s functional, it’s set up, and it’s supervised by me. I watch what they are doing.”

Dillings is interested to see how they continue in the future and is excited for what it might hold for the boys.

“They have what it takes to continue it and I hope to see it next year.”

Q&A with co-editor Ryan Cowan :

Q: What is your film schedule like?

A: We usually film for a week and then the other week we’ll edit.

Q: When did you decide it was time for tshirts?

A: We decided when we had over 200 fans on Facebook.

D Q: Do you feel The Pod has overall improved?

A: Each episode we get better and better at acting and editing.

Indoor percussion places first at Orlando regional With three more competitions left, Indoor Percussion looks to finish off last season with director on a high note

ALANNADEGOL STAFF WRITER

Indoor Percussion came in first place at the regional competition in Orlando on February 26. Arriving to school at 5:30 in the morning, the ensemble arrived in Orlando at 8:30, about an hour before performing in the preliminary competition. “[Our director] writes some pretty crazy music. Our show this year has become a lot more intense,” sophomore Jake Liotta said.

This years show is called “Call To Arms.” About eco-terrorism, the story follows the path of extreme environmentalists and their quest to stop mindless killing of trees. The main character, played by junior Olivia Burley, is an environmentalist as well but believes in a more peaceful way of handling the situation. The extremists eventually convince Burley to join their side and together they fight to take the power back. Some songs in this year’s show include “The Pretender” by the Foo Fighters and “Take the Power Back” by Race Against The Machine.

“Being in Indoor requires the most out of you,” sophomore Joey Guzzi said “It’s more in your face than

marching band.”

At the competition in Orlando, two of the most respected and well-known percussionists were judges at the competition, raising stakes even higher for most schools. Judges Mike McIntosh and Scott Johnson both work for some of the best drumlines in Drum Core International.

After Semi-Finals, the group discovered not that only had they placed first in their division with a score of 80.55 but they had also placed first in the entire competition.

“We were so excited once we found out,” junior Emily Forlenza said. “At first we didn’t believe it but once it was confirmed everyone was going crazy. We were ready to do even better during finals.”

While the students went to get lunch and relax before their 7 pm finals performance, instructors Kenson Chang and Matt Swift had individual time with the judges to be critiqued.

With the information they were given, the instructors made some changes that were put into place at finals.

After a quick rehearsal, the group performed their show for their final score. Overall pleased with the performance, the percussionists left the floor happy.

“You just know when you have a good show,” junior

Olivia Burley said. “Our finals performance was that kind-of show. It was an amazing feeling.”

In the upcoming year, many changes are occurring to the Indoor Percussion team. In addition to losing many seniors, their main clinician, Kenson Chang, will be leaving.

“I am going to miss the family atmosphere. We’re all very comfortable with each other because most of us have been together since we were in middle school,” senior Libbie Dailey said. “Evan Swift and I have been in CGHS Indoor since we were in 7th grade, so it will be pretty strange when December rolls around and I’m not getting ready for Indoor season.”

In order to prepare for upcoming competitions, Indoor Percussion practices two times a week from 5 - 8:30 pm.

The group has three more competitions coming up before their season ends. The first one is on March 12 at West Boca Community High School. This competition is another regional with more competitors than the Orlando competition.

The following Saturday, the group has an additional local competition at John I. Leonard High School. On March 27, the group will compete in the final Championship competition at John I. Leonard High School.

theprowl

LIFE

MARCH 2011 17

Senior overcomes past to keep others smiling

After being a victim of domestic abuse, senior Karriyma Bintu-Raqib shares her story and future goals in hopes of inspiring others who may be going through the same thing ALANNABROWDY CO-EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

To senior Karriyma Bintu-Raqib, putting on a smile and in turn making others do the same is a favorite hobby. She is often recognized around school as a happy person who warmly greets and talks to her teachers and fellow classmates.

“I love making others smile, because I wish someone would have done that for me,” Bintu-Raqib said.

And though her smile is real, Bintu-Raqib herself admits that no one will ever know what truly lies beneath her smile.

“Most people would never guess that I was abused by my father as a child. Physically, sexually, and overall emotionally,” Bintu-Raqib said. “For years I’ve struggled with finding myself and loving myself...and others.”

At a young age, Bintu-Raqib experienced what no child should ever have to go through. Abused by her father, she struggled with depression and anxiety and still experiences these emotions to this day.

“Most people wouldn’t even think that I went through anything that horrible, due to me constantly smiling and laughing,” Bintu-Raqib said. “But that sort of is like a mask for me. And that’s where acting comes in handy. It’s just so much easier to become a character and live their life and act as them, rather than dwelling in mine.”

At the age of nine, Bintu-Raquib’s mother got a restraining order on her father and since then has not seen him. Though this part of her life ended, the senior still finds daily struggles in her life. Because her father refuses to pay child support, Bintu-Raqib’s mother struggles with supporting her children. The family is on food stamps and Section 8, a Federal housing program that provides housing assistance to low-income renters and homeowners. Along with Karriyma, her younger sister freshman, Tatyanna Bitnu-Raqib, relates.

Due to this situation, Bintu-Raqib often finds herself at fellow senior Kevin Greisel’s house, her boyfriend of almost

two years. She finds it nearly impossible to focus and do her homework at home.

This information is personal to Bintu-Raqib, but the senior thinks that it is important for people to know her story.

“I mean, as much as it’s personal and there might be a little bit of awkwardness, but who cares,” Bintu-Raqib said.

“I want people to hopefully feel inspired...and who knows, perhaps some girl is going through the same thing. I want her to know that she’s not alone.”

Although the senior has been through a lot in her life, her list of talents exceed most. She is a singer, dancer, actress, artist, and model. In addition, Bintu-Raqib sews, designs various fashions, participated in track and field, and is a member of the school’s WJAG TV Production program.

“I’m going to major in Broadcast Journalism, and minor in Theater, but my true passion is acting,” Bintu-Raqib said.

This year, Karriyma participated in the all-female cast of Shout! as a lead role. She is also a member of the Drama Department’s Improv Troupe. Her ideal dream is to become an actress because of her love for singing, dancing and acting at the same time.

“It doesn’t seem very realistic right now,” Bintu-Raqib said. “But I’m starting off small with some pretty good potential jobs I booked for commercial modeling and acting.”

Modeling agencies such as ActorsExpress, Interface, and ExploreTalent have contacted Bintu-Raqib. The largest agency she has been in touch with though is an agency in Miami that connects its clients, but only gets paid when their clients get paid.

“Interface wants to start shooting for a Macy’s catalog this month, but I’m busy with school and don’t really have transportation,” Bintu-Raqib said. “I’m going to start with them this summer. I auditioned for them and got the callbacks so I’m pretty confident that I will book some local commercial jobs, but I have to wait until after high school.”

Taking a glance at Karriyma’s bright smile and shining eyes, one would not expect such a story from the aspiring actress. Next time you look around at fellow students and think that they are not going through the same things as you are, think again.

Strike a pose: Senior Karriyma Bintu-Raquib poses for the camera to build up her resume. She sends photos like these to modeling agencies in hopes of being hired. photo by Niki Namazi

CONGRATULATIONS

DECA!

10 First Place Winners at State Competition!

And many more!

Congratulations Senior Leaders!

Alison Horowitz - DECA Gilbert Feig - Science NHS Taylor Kroeger Student Government Adam Waters Debate/Mu Alpha Theta

Make sure to turn to page 22 for

The

ROHAN REPORT

Creme Brulee * Ramblewood Square 1263 N. University Drive * Coral Springs * 954-752-5323

LIFE

18 MARCH 2011

VIDEO GAME REVIEW EA Sports releases fifth installment of Fight Night Series, more realistic than last ROHANNADKARNI SPORTS EDITOR

I

n 2004, EA Sports began the Fight Night series as a follow up to the boxing game Knockout Kings. Seven years later, EA Sports has released its masterpiece of the series, the game’s fifth installment, Fight Night Champion.

The game boasts an impressive roster of over 50 fighters spanning from Bantam Weights to Super Heavyweights. The game features a mix of current superstars such as Manny Pacquiao and Oscar De La Hoya, legends in Muhammad Ali and George Foreman, and the clinically insane in Mike Tyson.

Fans of many different boxing generations and of all the different weight classes should have no problems finding a boxer of their liking in FNC. When FNC was first revealed, it was obvious EA Sport, the game’s developer, would be going in a radically different direction. The game is the first ‘M’ rated title to be released under the EA Sports banner, meaning the game would feature more adult content than any game in the past. Fight Night’s dedication to this new direction, its stunning visuals, and its old time fun make the game a classic.

First, I want to start about the simplicity of a good boxing game. I used to have an Atari with a joystick and one button and when you played the boxing game you hit that button as BOTTOM LINE: EA KO’s the competition many times as you could until with their best boxing you scored a knockout. simulation yet.

Although this form of button mashing is hated by most

HHHHH

theprowl

Fight Night Champion

hardcore gamers, Fight Night succeeds because it offers old school fun and a more realistic, simulation experience. This means people with no gaming experience can pick up a copy of FNC, and try to beat their buddies’ brains out by powerfully attacking the buttons on their controller. For the true boxing fan, FNC still offers a robust series of controls that make it possible for a real boxing experience.

The last incarnation of Fight Night restricted gamers to the use of only the right analog stick for punching controls, much to the chagrin of the series’ fans. In FNC, the right stick controls are back along with the usage of face buttons to give players the choice of control. The system with the right stick is sophisticated enough so that long time fans who know what they are doing can string together punches.

New to the series this year is the addition of Champion Mode. Champion mode follows the story of Andre Bishop, a convicted boxer who participates in jailhouse boxing matches as well as relives his initial rise as a boxer. The game’s exploitation of its ‘M’ rating shines in Champion Mode, which is a no holds barred look at the world of boxing.

Champion Mode joins other classic Fight Night modes such as Legacy Mode, the game’s longstanding career mode, various minigames, and Fight Now. Although Champion Mode can be finished rather quickly, the other modes of the game make it very replayable and give it a long shelf life.

When playing the game’s more serious modes such as Legacy and Champion, the control system bears fruit. For players who take the time to master the controls they can learn how to actually box through an entire match. The fatigue system of the game means that if you try to throw haymakers every punch you will not last through Round 4.

In order to compete successfully in FNC, you must be able to balance your punches and your knockout blows. Your boxer will need enough stamina to last every round, and if you spend all round punching with no defense, you will have too much damage to last. In addition to punches, the game

image from EA Sports offers great defensive controls as well. Your boxer has the ability to lean, block, and sidestep punches thrown his way.

A feature of the series that remains are the legendary graphics. The game looks beautiful. Boxers move fluidly in the ring and resemble their real life counterparts. Slow motion replays of punches show off the game’s sleek graphics.

The addition of more blood and disfigurement in faces gives the sport of boxing the proper devastation it deserves. The graphics help bring up other parts of the game’s presentation.

The introductions are short, not very detailed, and do not help to create the feel of a large boxing event. The commentary can grow stale quickly, and it might be time for the team to record some new lines. These aspects of the presentation still do not take away from the enjoyment of the game.

LIFE

theprowl

MARCH 2011 19

e n o iPh VS d i o r And

iPhone: In its fourth generation, the more rectangular phone version offers users more graphic opportunities, but comes with more glitches Android: Taking the market by storm, the touch screen phone provides users with wide variety of applications at a lower cost

iPhone Stats

•3.5 inch LED Screen •4GB or 8GB Storage Capacity •5.0 Megapixel Camera •135 grams •Uses Wi-Fi (802.11b/g), EDGE, and Bluetooth 2.0 Networking •Dimensions of 115 x 61 x 11.6 mm •Multi-touch input method •320 by 480 Screen Resolution

Bottom line: With advanced

music capabilities and photography apps, iPhone is right choice for artistic users.

Droid Stats

•3.7 inch Screen

•8GB Storage Capacity •8.0 Megapixel Camera •130 grams •Uses Wifi, EDR, And Bluetooth 2.1 Networking •Dimensions of 58 x 118 x 12 mm •Multi-touch screen and TouchPad/ TrackPad •480 by 800 Screen Resolution

Bottom line: Smaller size, brighter screen, and lighter weight, Droid is the better choice for those on the go.

GABRIELGROSSMAN COPY EDITOR

As the need for “smartphones” skyrockets, not only are flip-phone sales on their last leg, but consumers are left with an extremely difficult decision: which smartphone they should buy.

With numerous mobile carriers and phone choices, this decision is challenging to deal with. However, what it all comes down to are the two most popular smartphones; the Android and the iPhone.

What exactly is so great about smartphones? From the endless Internet capabilities to the millions of applications, or “apps,” that have been created, the basic cell phone has clearly been sent into oblivion. Businessmen and women depend on smartphones for everything from their contacts, to emails, and sometimes even entire presentations that can earn them major promotions or bonuses. Even teachers use smartphones to send emails or input grades on Pinnacle on the go.

Time, a precious item in today’s fast-paced world, seems to be going faster and faster and smartphones are a way that people can keep up. Sending emails, making phone calls, and researching solutions to problems can all be done on smartphones thanks to the technology that exists.

Rumors have started to circulate speculating that the newer Android-powered phones may be a smarter investment than an iPhone. Although Apple has been known to be a fairly dependable company when it comes to technology, iPhones have been known to be more susceptible to glitches. Despite the known problems, people continue to purchase iPhones and view them as the hot phone on the market.

On January 11 of this year, Verizon announced it would be carrying the iPhone, which had been previously sold solely

by AT&T. As soon as this news was announced, Verizon users were eager to ditch their BlackBerry and Samsung phones in order to purchase the new item.

“Lines are going to be out the door and around the corner very soon,” Verizon associate Eric said.“The iPhones arrive around five a.m. and doors don’t open until seven a.m., but people will be outside all night waiting for the store to open and the delivery to be made.”

RESTAURANT PREVIEW European-style restaurant opens at The Walk, featuring an array of cellar-aged cheese NIKINAMAZI PHOTOGRAPHY EDITOR

Opening its doors for the first time to a location in Coral Springs, The Cheese Course is expected to hold it grand opening at The Walk this spring.

Although prices are expected to be a little high, the location and cozy atmosphere call for a positive dining experience.

As evidenced by the restaurant name, these European style restaurant experts in cheese making, an art that has kept the family in the business for generations.

The family entered the cheese making business in 1860 when Alix Jacquemin branched off of old traditional cheese making methods and adapted a new method of cellar aging.

As an effort to keep their ingredients pure, everything comes from a small farm as opposed to a large manufacturing line.

The real question at hand about the iPhone: is it worth all the hype? More complaints about the “smart” phone are being stated than compliments at this time. Experts say that the age of the iPhone may be coming to an end. Is it time to step aside for the reign of the Android?

Google Incorporated has powered Android Operating systems ever since they purchased the company in 2005. The new smartphones that have been created off of the Android basis however is also a big seller in the phone market. Canalys reported that in Q4 2010 the Android operating system had proved itself to have the world’s best-selling smartphone platform. The Android offers everything the iPhone does but also has been created in more models and with fewer technical problems.

While the iPhone always comes in the same rectangular shape and until recently only from one carrier, Android phones come in a number of shapes and sizes and can be purchased from mobile carriers such a Verizon, TMobile, MetroPCS, and many others.

As of December 2010, there were about 200,000 apps that could be purchased from the Android Market. The Market can be equally compared to Apple’s App Store, however one difference remains, that third party developers create the applications. This third party has the ability to create applications and then post them to the Market so they can be downloaded from any Android owner.

Android phones rarely have glitches, and have the built-in search engine powered by Google to make Internet usage even easier. 3G speed comes standard with all Android phones, and some, such as the Droid Evo have 4G, placing in the same category as, if not above, iPhones.

The overall price for owning an Android is also significantly less than an iPhone. For 24 months, the average iPhone plan costs $2,839, almost a thousand dollars more than the Android average of $1,949 for the same time frame.

If a consumer’s only reason for purchasing an iPhone is because everyone else has one, they should absolutely consider an Android. With more variety, less chances of breaking down fast, and all around better service, the user will likely be more satisfied in the end.

The Cheese Course

“I’m really excited for the grand opening. It’s been a while since there’s been a restaurant that doesn’t serve fried food. The whole idea of an Italian cheese cottage sort of place sounds really intriguing,” freshman Natalie Catania said.

With a wide variety of different cheeses, those who visit the restaurant will be able to indulge in something as ordinary as Mozzarella to something as exotic as Robiola Bosina.

“The idea of a restaurant menu centered around hundreds of different types of cheese sounds really appetizing, I can’t wait to give the place a visit,” junior Adrian Hernandez said.

For those with big appetites which cannot be satisfied with just a plate full of cheese, The Cheese Course also offers an array of salads, and sandwiches.

With such a promising future, The Cheese Course has left no patience for eager cheese lovers in Coral Springs.

If cheese-lovers just cannot wait for the opening, The Cheese Course has various locations in Coral Springs already open, such as the one in Miezner Park.

Cheese fanatics all across South Florida anticipating the opening down here in Coral Springs can also check out the website, www.thecheesecourse.com, for a full menu and calendar of upcoming events and cheese testings.

CHEESE COTTAGE: The Cheese Course advertises for their newest location at The Walk on University Drive.

The restaurant hopes to open its doors by the end of the April. photo by Niki Namazi

SPORTS

20 MARCH 2011

SPORTS BRIEFS

Football ‘under construction’

Boys’ varsity and junior varsity football players started their preparation for next season and the upcoming spring game against Hollywood Hills High School.

Conditioning is being held Monday through Thursday from 3 to 4:30 pm.

So far, the players have restricted themselves to running sprints and other cardio exercises. On Mondays and Wednesdays, players work on their upper body strength. On Tuesdays and Thursdays, the players work their lower body strength New coach Jeff Mathis runs the conditioning program, along with returning coach Sean Hunt. Mathis hired two new assistants to help alleviate the departure of assistants Brandon Covington and Christian Baldwin.

- Becca Miller and Rachel Brill

Athletes make it to next level On National Signing Day, a day where athletes sign a letter of intent, four Coral Glades Jaguars made a big splash. Seniors Patrick Jones and Kevin Greisel signed their respective letters of intent to play football at the collegiate level.

Senior Patrick Jones, who signed with Dean College, found his visit with the coaches and football program helpful. This ultimately led to his decision to sign.

Kevin Greisel signed with Carnegie Mellon after being highly sought after by Cornell, Columbia, and Dartmouth. Greisel found both the business and engineering programs, ranked in the top 10 in the U.S., a big factor in his decision.

Varsity volleyball captain Stephanie Holbrook will attend Indian River State College in northern Florida to continue her volleyball career. Matt Lamb, varsity basketball player, will also stay in Florida to play basketball in Orlando at Weber International University.

-Cameron Cooper

Man v. Beast game continues On March 25, the faculty of Coral Glades High will match up against J.P. Taravella’s own staff in the third annual Man v. Beast basketball game. The game has been set up the past three years by the Parent Teacher Student Organization (PTSO). The PTSO at Coral Glades is led

by Administrators Kaila Rivera and Tariq Quayim.

Last year at Coral Glades, the Jaguars sustained an early lead and came out on top, Stars of the game included Principal Michael Ramirez as well as security guard Jose Escalante.

This year will prove to be a bigger test as Coral Glades will lose its home-court advantage. Because the location alternates between Taravella and Coral Glades every year, Taravella will be hosting the game in its gym. The crowd will certainly be a factor, and faculty is greatly encouraging students to support their players.

-Matt Sheinbaum

theprowl “My motivation is just to prove to everyone how good I am,” Joseph Farina, senior and wrestling team member

Sports of Hazard Three senior athletes share their horror stories about various injuries that can occur during an average season in sports such as football, basketball, and track

MATTHEW TANNER OP/ED EDITOR

“There is no ‘I’ in ‘team.’” This motivational quote is frequently heard by athletes of every sport from their coaches and teammates.

While the accuracy of this well-known statement cannot be denied when it comes to the spelling of the word “team”, the loss of one player due to a serious injury can become an overwhelming burden.

Losing a part of a team throws off the rotation, momentum, progress, and, in turn, success. Injuries vary between sports, but any injury to any player has the same negative affect.

Football is undoubtedly the most physical sport played in high school and can cause serious damage to players during games as well as long-lasting problems seen later in life.

Senior Kevin Greisel tore a muscle in his leg during the 2009-10 track and field season, keeping ROBLEDO him sidelined for five months, shortening his time on the field during his final football season at Coral Glades as well.

“I was really angry because I missed a large amount of the track and football seasons during my senior year,” Greisel said.

Greisel also suffered a hand injury during the football season, breaking his finger in two places, which kept him out for another two weeks and took six weeks to heal.

The football team faces a problem when Greisel sits as they lose his ten tackles per game.

“It is hard to go to games and watch your team play from the sidelines, whether it is a win or loss, rather than being on the field with them.”

Basketball, though not a full-on contact sport like football, leaves players banged up constantly as they fight for rebounds, avoid turnovers, and draw fouls. Basketball teams are seriously affected when they lose productive players to injuries as they have small rosters and cannot afford to further decrease the number of available players. This year’s basketball team struggled to find consistency as they were constantly left playing games without key players.

Senior captain Kyle Shepard rolled his ankle late in the season and was instructed by his coaches to continue practicing, rather than resting. Early in a practice, just days after spraining the ankle, Shepard once again rolled it, this time tearing three ligaments.

“That injury was very disappointing for me. I had to miss Senior Night because I could not even walk on my ankle,” Shepard said.

Shepard started his last regular season game with the Coral Glades basketball team but had to sit down after under a minute of play because he struggled to move up and down the court.

“I am going to be more careful in volleyball practices now so I do not have to miss any of my games,” Shepard said, referring to being co-captain of the varsity volleyball team as well.

Shepard led the volleyball team in kills last season and looks forward to a promising year in which he feels the teams can be victorious in playoff games.

“Hopefully the team can avoid injuries this year so that we can reach our full potential. We are all confident that we can win districts this year.”

Shepard’s basketball teammate, senior Andres Robledo, suffered his share of injuries this season as well. Robledo had to miss several games early in the year after hyper-extending a muscle in his lower back while trying to save the ball from going out of bounds.

His aggressiveness overcame him once again when he sprained his Achilles tendon, keeping him off the court for a month.

Robledo was recently selected to participate in the 2011 Broward County All-Star Basketball Game on March 10, but may not be able to participate.

“I was getting ready for the All-Star Game and I came down awkwardly on my foot. I knew it was bad the second I landed on it,” Robledo said.

Robledo found out that he sprained his ankle and likely cannot play on his foot soon enough to participate in the All-Star game, but he remains hopeful. The game includes players selected from around the county and takes place at Flanagan High School.

“I am trying to get myself ready to play in the game because I will not have a chance to play in it again.”

Missing players such as Robledo, Shepard, and Greisel can be very tough on teams who rely heavily on certain players. For this reason, coaches and teams must prepare for injuries during long and strenuous seasons. With proper plans and preparation, teams can overcome losing key players to

CGHS Athlet ics Doctor’s Not e

Girls’ Soccer

> Lost 8 starte rs over season > Lost top scor er and other star ter to ACL injuries

Football

> 9 serious inju ries to knee, shoulder, back, ankle, and finger > 3 season-endin g injuries > 2 concussions

Boys’ Basketball

> 3 players forc ed to sit out games due to in juries

SPORTS

theprowl

MARCH 2011 21

Varsity baseball takes talent to Sarasota Team looks to begin season with success at invitational tournament in Northern Florida

BECCAMILLER STAFF WRITER

With months of training and hard work completed, the varsity baseball team welcomes a new year and season with open arms. Eager to start competing against other teams, the varsity baseball squad will be competing in The Sarasota Classic. This competition is one where only the best of the best are invited to play.

Only 32 teams across the country are asked to participate in the tournament. Among them are six former state championship teams, as well as students that are a part of all-season, all- Americans teams, which are some of the most competitive teams in the nation.

The tournament consists of different brackets of scheduled games. The varsity Jaguars are in the Elite/ Premier Bracket, which consists of teams that are among the top 20 across the United States.

“This competition is one of the most prestigious baseball competitions’ around; we go against players that have been all-star champions, and against schools like Penneltown High School that are only based on baseball,” senior Derek Greider said.

Some of the team’s biggest competitors were also asked to take part in the competition, such as Marjory Stoneman Douglas and Coral Springs High Schools. The team will have to play against both of the schools before the competition in regularly scheduled games.

Douglas and Springs both happen to be a part of the toughest District in Florida baseball teams. J.P. Taravella was also among the list, but after six years, the team was able to defeat them.

“This tournament is going to be hard and the pressure is at an extreme, all the players there are out to work toward their future, with so much persistence and want, it can get

stressful,” senior Austin Holzknecht said.

Along with having to compete against major rivalries, the pressure from scouts that attend games to see possible prosperous players for major colleges and universities is tough. Every year at least 40 to 50 seniors are drafted from this tournament.

“I am really excited for this tournament, it’s the best around. Were not really expecting to win but at least get into the top 5, hopefully I’ll get drafted from a good school but as of now I’m not sure,” senior Oliver Christensen said.

One of the teams that does so well every year is Sarasota High School. They have produced 4 first round draft picks in the past 10 years for Major League Baseball. This year, Sarasota is the defending tournament champion, meaning the Jaguars will play against them.

Head varsity coach Jorge Miranda is confident in his players, including four outstanding seniors who will be able to show off their talents on the field. He believes the team will be more then capable to do better than they did last year.

The team had a tough season last year, starting from the opening game, which was against Penneltown High School.

Penneltown is a baseball academy, where boys wake up early every morning, go to baseball practice, spend a few hours in school and then practice again. Their whole life is devoted to the game. Even against a team like this, The boys’ team came out amongst the top ten, finishing eighth in their bracket.

This year however the school faces tougher competition, such as the teams that are placed second, fourth and 40th in the nation, all of which whom are in the same bracket.

“I am confident that we will get far, and as far as I know maybe I’ll get drafted by a scout from a school I want to go to, this tournament is so much more than a trophy to me it’s my future, my education,” Christensen said.

HOT CORNER: Senior Brandon Texiera fields ground balls at a varsity baseball practice. The team has been practicing every day after school in preparation for the invitational tournament. photo by Alanna Degol

Berr

Chemicals Inc.

Ravi Sheti President

3865 NW 124th Ave.

Coral Springs, FL 33065

(954) 345-6121 Fax (954) 345-6171

Events

Email: Ravishetty@ RJchemicals.com

CONGRATULATIONS to the Concert Band and Wind Ensemble for their overall superior ratings at the Florida Bandmasters Association’s Music Performance Assessment.

Events

SPORTS

22 MARCH 2011 Cafe

the

ROHAN REPORT

BY ROHAN NADKARNI

Leg before wicket The last few weeks I have not really gotten out of bed after finding out that I can stream Man V. Food to the television in my room. I found that it oddly gives me joy to watch other normal people attempt to eat large amounts of food in one, neatly wrapped up 22-minute program.

One of my good friends, I will not mention any names (Matt Watkins) once downed four whole candy bars, and get this, he did not throw up until later that night. This new revelation, combined with the fact that I decided not to get sideburns with my last haircut, means one could call me a creep, loser, or Steven Berger.

However, sports once again saved the day. Last Saturday I managed to make it to Managing Editor Molly Schulson’s soccer championship match at Mullins Park. The Great Wall of Molly had many saves in the first half, including stopping a penalty kick in cold blood. Schulson had time to make saves, wave to the sidelines, and even switched from goalie to forward in the second half.

Lately, aside from my creepiness, I have been searching for ways to act on my sports fandom. With the Miami Heat falling apart faster than a wet cookie and with no current contact female sports being played at school, I knew that my options were limited. Could Rohan the sports fan really be out of luck?

(Yes, I just wrote in the third person. Excuse me for letting my ego get in the way of my column. Just look at the title, what did you expect? I am the same kid who wrote an entire editorial on the word “douche bag.” Even if the quality of my column could draw criticism from the beef of a Taco Bell burrito this year does not mean I am worried about referring to myself in the third person.)

Just when I thought I would have to attend a Coral Glades baseball game in the body suit Shaquille O’Neal used in the cinema classic Steel, I remembered Cricket.

That’s right, the national pastime of my homeland India.

Last month marked the beginning of the 2011 ICC Cricket World Cup, being played in the Indian Subcontinent as well some surrounding countries like Sri Lanka.

Cricket is a sport I hold very dear to my heart. Due to time differences in countries the sport is played in, frequently over the years I have stayed up to odd hours of the morning to catch a match.

Unfortunately, people in the states (that’s what we Bombayites call America) do not really understand the beauty of cricket. They consider it some warped version of baseball that is much less exciting. And not to pick on baseball, but seriously, saying a sport is more boring than baseball is pretty harsh. How many sports call for a stretch during the middle of the game?

I think its time for the American student to catch on to cricket. The sport offers many things for people to be excited about, and even uses some familiar American terminology.

Powerplays? Bowling? Umpires? Full Instant Replay?

Throw in stumps, wickets, lbw’s, and appeals and those are pretty much all the words you need to know.

The game is simple: score more runs than the other team. One team bats, and another team fields. When the fielding team delivers the ball to a batsmen, it is called bowling. When a batsmen hits the ball, he runs to the opposite wicket, while the other batsmen on the field runs back toward the original spot the ball was hit. When both batsmen make it safely to the other side, a run is scored.

Also, any sport that creates a competition between two countries as opposed to two states becomes infinitely more interesting. National pride is on the line every time India lines up against Pakistan. When two countries have a 60 plus year history of fighting and ideological differences the conflict translates onto the field (or pitch).

With lockouts looming in the NBA and NFL, and hockey still unpopular as ever, it might be time for young American athletes to look for a new sport to dominate.

Imagine being able to take another thing away from Great Britain after already stealing English and this entire country.

Many people may look at this moment of Rohan Report history when my column was officially over the hill considering I am writing about an international sport even less popular than soccer. All I can do is urge readers to give a new sport a chance, and maybe you will not regret it.

theprowl

Softball reloads for spring Varsity softball looks to make districts this season by using knowledge of previous mistakes, utilizing new skills to topple old rivals LAURENKLITZ NEWS EDITOR

Already set up for a good season, there may be no stopping Coach Jeffrey Poole’s softball team this year.

“The outlook is very good for this season and we’re expecting to finish high in the ranks. Last season was also a great season because we improved a lot but there is always room to grow and this year, we’re growing at a good pace,” Poole said.

Last year under Poole’s direction, the dynamic drastically changed in the team and they finished last season with a record of 11 wins and just 6 losses.

The vast improvement over just one year created solid grounds for further development this year that can already be seen.

The team meets everyday, sometimes for games but most of the time for practice. With that large amount of time, softball consumes their lives. Many of the upperclassmen see that their high school softball career comes closer and closer to ending.

“This year looks a lot better and the team is going to do a lot better because we’re working together more and I think

SWING FOR THE FENCES: Senior Cheyenne O’Neill takes practices batting before the team’s game against Blanche Ely High School. O’Neill is a captain and a third year varsity player. photo by Alanna DeGol

things are going to be good for us this season,” junior and team captain Sarah Collins said.

Collins and senior Cheyenne O’Neill lead the softball team as captains and both play vital roles as players as well. As top pitcher for the team, Collins takes pride in the accomplishments of her team and puts in all she can to ensure victories at every game. Both O’ Neill and Collins encourage the team to work hard and hope to make it farther this year, closer to the top of the district.

New additions have shaken things up and increased the viability of the overall team and Poole continues to seek out strengths of the girls and find their niche in the team.

“Jessica Osteen is quickly becoming one of the stars on the team, she’s a very big hitter and for sure is quickly proving herself and that she deserves her position on the team. She is new from Tallahassee this year and came in as a junior but she is blending in well with the rest of the girls and is really working hard,” Poole said.

Osteen has felt welcomed ever since she joined the team at the start of practices back in September.

“We had a rough start, but the girls are working harder than ever to achieve our goals. Everyone gets along really well and they made me feel so welcome since my first day with them. By the way things are going now, the rest of the season looks really promising and I’m really excited to finish it out strong,” Osteen said.

Along with Osteen, other additions to the team include freshman Natalie Catanie, the team’s catcher. Most players have been on the team for three of four years but about four new players have entered the team this season all with much potential, according to Poole.

Plenty of practice has been dished out to the team as a whole because they have been playing Fall Ball since September which included two practices a week in the beginning of the year.

The girls played games in November and December, which got the team used to playing together and ensured that softball would constantly be on everyone’s minds even in the off-season.

“Practices are going great right now. When we don’t have games we practice from 3 to 6 pm every day. Usually our games are on Tuesdays and Thursdays and practices are on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday. The team has a really ideal chemistry this year and is a good team altogether, so my outlook is good for the rest of the season,” Poole said.

A small number of additions have been made to the team this year and they have all made a big impact on the team and have proven themselves beneficial in games.

“We finished third out of eight teams in the district last year just behind J.P. Taravella and Marjory Stoneman Douglas High Schools which I was happy with,” Poole said “I’m sure this year we can accomplish at least that and possibly much more.”

Poole believes a brighter ending than last year is on the horizon for the players and that with just a little more push, they can surpass any goals they had made last year.

Tennis team makes mid-season switch MADDIEFLAGER CO-EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Last Thursday, March 3, athletic director Steven Beauchamp announced to the tennis team that American History teacher Matthew Rupp would be taking over as coach. Rupp joined the school as one of the slew of new teachers in the middle of this school year. He was working as the team’s assistant coach before the promotion.

Previous coach Robert Bryant has coached the team since the school opened in 2004.

Rupp, who has been playing tennis for ten years, has already begun establishing new expectations and rules in hopes of improving the team overall.

Coming into the team mid-season, with eight matches already played and only five left, Rupp knows the transition will be challenging. However, he has high hopes.

“[I want to earn the players’ respect] by staying consistent with them. I want to let them know that I care about them and that I want the best for them,” Rupp said. “I want their input on what they need to do as a player. I also want to give them constructive criticism through compliments. My grandmother always told me, ‘You can always attract more bees with honey,’ so I strongly believe in that saying.”

Before Rupp took over, the team’s record was 5-3. Since he began, practices have switched from optional to mandatory.

“My new rules may cause concern with the team. If some of the players do not come to practice, then they are not allowed to compete,” Rupp said.

“However, I do think there will be a good outcome for those who are determined to elevate their game.”

Rupp, who played both volleyball

and tennis, has taken over responsibilities for both the girls’ and boys’ teams. Both teams now practice every day after school from three to five. “[Boys and girls] are completely different, especially athletically,” Rupp said. “I just have to keep motivating them and get them to motivate themselves.”

The switch in coaches came as a surprise to most players, but the athletes remain optimistic.

“I am looking forward to being able to practice more so that we can get better as a team and hopefully win some more matches,” senior Adam Waters said.

This season goes through the end of March, and districts take place the first week in April.

Rupp is keeping an eye on the future.

He plans on sticking with mandatory practices, adding in more training and drills after school, and increasing overall fundraising for the team.

SPORTS

theprowl

TRACK AND FIELD

Future on track

MARCH 2011 23 RUN JIMMY RUN: Senior James Mason conditions for his upcoming meets at a local park. Mason practices everyday after school to make sure his body is in top form for the season. photo by Niki Namazi

In coach Brandon Covington’s last season, track team makes a push for a district championship with a large number of male competitors.

Y

TORIHARTSTEIN LIFE EDITOR

ear after year, the track and field program has experienced numerous modifications in the overall team dynamic. With the loss of Coach Robert Hurley in ’08-’09, the gaining of Coach Brandon Covington last year, and the absence of key runners this season, the team seems to act with resilience towards the challenges thrown their way.

Following the loss of prominent senior runners, conditioning began in early January in order to begin rebuilding and strengthening the team. During that time, practice was held every day after school, with the athletes practicing separately in accordance to their area of competition. Sprinters and field athletes typically work with Coach Covington during the afternoon, while distance runners often practice separately at night with cross country and track distance coach Pedro Gonzalez.

Based on behavior and performance during practice and in the early meets, Covington pinpoints the boys as the strongest component of the team.

“A lot of them have stepped up and pulled the slack,” Covington said.

Among the teams top scorers are seniors and distance runners Jordan Edwards, James Mason, and Santiago Zerda, as well as senior and speed runner Brandon Duhaney.

On the teams first meet, which took place February 21 at Dillard High School, Mason finished first in the mile event, and finished with similar results while competing at Boleyn High School. Of his performance, Covington says “he’s been running like a madman.”

Also stepping up, Edwards has run the fastest 400 meter split since Covington began coaching at Coral Glades, with a time of 50.9 seconds.

As for Duhaney, Covington expects to name him team captain based on his familiarity with the practice routines and the fact that he already acts as a leader.

Throughout the last week of February, as the three beginning meets took place, Duhaney held his own in the 4x2 relay, ending in 2nd place as the anchor, with an

overall time of 1:33.

With their hard work they were able to place third overall against 17 other schools in their meet against leading schools including Flanagan and Coral Springs High Schools, among others.

The team is hindered by a lack of female athletes. The girls’ team consists of only six members.

Covington believes senior Ariel Burrell is the strongest of the six, having gained much experience in her four years on the team. She plans to compete in the hurdle events, as well as the high jump.

With a team consisting of such athletic competitors, Covington expects a successful season and a chance at winning the first district title for track and field in the school’s history. At the end of the school year, Covington will move to Oklahoma where he plans to coach at Oklahoma State University.

Upcoming Track and Field meets:

> March 11 City Championships

@ Coral Springs High School

> March 12 Disney Showcase in Orlando, FL

> March 19 George Steinbrenner Invite in Tampa, FL

> March 23 BCAA Prelims

@ Deerfield Beach High School

> April 2

Florida Relays @ University of Florida

Wrestler wins state championship ALANNADEGOL STAFF WRITER

FULL NELSON: Senior Joe Farina practices his technique against a fellow student in the school’s ‘mini’ gymnasium after school. Farina practices almost every day to perfect his maneuvering and techniques. photo by Amy Weiss

The wrestling program underwent some changes at the beginning of this school year. Tenured coach James Tietema left the school at the end of last year, which meant returning wrestlers would work under the tutelage of a new coach. This change would be especially interesting to seniors who had been with Tietema for three years.

Despite the departure of the successful Tietema, coach Tyler Marr took over and was able to harness the talent already at the school. With Marr as the new operator of Coral Glades wrestling, individuals still made great strides in the careers.

This year, senior Joseph Farina has taken his wrestling dream to a new level, placing at the state championship.

To get to state, Farina had to place in the top three positions at districts and regionals. Farina placed in first at both level competitions.

His current coach, Marr, has been coaching him since the beginning of this wrestling season and believes he has very high potential for wrestling after high school.

Originally starting as a martial arts advocate in middle school, Farina turned to wrestling as he started high school.

His first coach, Coach T, convinced him to join wrestling

after he questioned whether the school had any martial arts sports he could participate in. He uses his knowledge of these techniques in his wrestling.

“His technique is mainly defense, he relies on the opponent to take a shot, so he can use their moves against them,” Marr said. “He’s a great leg-rider, he has the advantage when he’s on top.”

Farina has always been a contender in local competitions, placing at 6th and 3rd at regional competitions in the past. To prepare for these competitions Farina exercises for two hours, including running and wrestling, with some occasional weight-lifting.

Wrestling is unique in that maintaining your weight is especially important. Working out too much and losing weight could bump a wrestler down a weight class. Bulking up too much would push a wrestler to a heavier weight class. The best weight for a wrestler to be is usually in the upper echelon of a weight class, giving them a strength advantage but also making sure to not lose quickness.

To remain competitive, Farina participates in intense off-season work out sessions, local off-season tournaments, and various wrestling camps all over Florida. “[My motivation is] just to prove to everyone how good I am,” Farina said.

F E AT U R E

24 MARCH 2011

theprowl

LAUREN HERBST

“I got my bird tattoo because my mom died of cancer and she told me if she ever came back to life as something else, she would want to be a bird because they are so free spirited.”

STAMPED for

by Tori Hartstein

O

nce reserved for the biceps of sailors, bikers, and rebellious individuals alike, tattoos have now become an artistic, and even fashionable, trend. While some may have been chosen based on a regrettable whim or without consideration of the future, others possess a story or act as an artistic expression of oneself.

The process of getting a tattoo proves to be less glamorous than the final product. After performing the leading tasks of cleansing the designated area and sterilizing a needle, the artist begins by drawing an outline of the design onto the flesh.

Since the electric needle is driven into the deeper layer of skin, ink is injected into a newly created puncture wound. This often causes bleeding and requires caring for the tattooed area after the procedure.

At age 16, now senior Aimee Guralnick chose to get a tattoo positioned on the back of the neck in commemoration of her deceased baby sister and family as a whole. With parental consent, she transferred an intense experience into a permanent display of her love and remembrance.

“It’s a moon and five stars; one of the stars is a shooting star. The five stars represent my siblings: my star is hot pink, my sister, Crystal’s star is red, my sister, Michelle’s star is yellow, and my brother, Joshua’s star

LIFE

is blue. Lastly, the shooting star for my deceased sister, Jade, is baby pink. The moon, which is black/purple represents my mom and dad,” Guralnick said.

Each color had been chosen specifically to represent the individuals she intended to portray. The baby pink hue of the single shooting star symbolizes Guralnick’s deceased sister, Jade, who died as a baby.

“Right before she started, I cried,” Guralnick said.

“Not because I was scared of the pain, just because I was thinking of how my sister died and all of the pain I dealt with when it happened and I was just happy I could finally do something for her.”

With the firm belief that tattoos should carry a significant deeper meaning, Guralnick has brainstormed future design possibilities. She believes they will accurately display her passions and tell stories that she wants to remember for a lifetime.

“My boyfriend and I talked about it and if we end up getting married I would want his initials on the inside of my ring finger. It would show that no matter what we’re together,” Guralnick said. “I also have considered getting a barcode on my hip with the barcode numbers equaling my parents’ birthdays.”

In an expression of religion and art, senior Matt Lamb devoted the once bare area of his ribs to be used as a canvas. After meticulously revising an original drawing

RYAN QUINTERO

DANNI KHORIATY

“I’m half Irish and it is for luck with the initials of my family. I won’t regret it in the future.”

“I have two tattoos. One is a mix between a treble clef and a peace sign and the other is an owl on the moon holding a scroll.”

KEVIN ROSUCK

MATT LAMB

“The idea just came to me, I knew I really wanted the bible verse so I pretty much just used the verse as a guide/inspiration for the idea.”

of a pair of hands bleeding over a bible verse, Lamb had the drawing tattooed on him as an 18th birthday gift.

“I got it because I was going through some tough times in the beginning of my freshman year, such as the death of my grandpa, getting cut from the basketball team, and some other family problems,” Lamb said. “My grandpa inspired me and he was an amazing artist. We never really talked until his final days, but when he was on his death bed he only wanted to talk to me and he told me stay strong and no matter what you do, don’t give up on basketball.”

Following his guidance, Lamb persevered and now plans to attend Webber International University in Tampa, Florida to play basketball on the college-level team.

“The verse brought me to believe in God,” Lamb said. “Not many people know, but I am pretty religious and the verse saved me.”

With similar intentions, junior Peter Marino had a pair of praying hands tattooed on his chest. The design was chosen to honor his father who passed away two years ago.

“Some people get tattoos just to look good but I feel like that isn’t a solid reason,” Marino said. “Others get tattoos that really mean something to them, like for something or someone they love, or for someone who has passed away, like in my situation.”

AIMEE GURALNICK

“I think tattoos should be something you tell a story with.”

“I chose it because I like the style and I grew up near the beach and surf, so it’s what I like to do and it represents a part of me.“

Students share the stories that lie within the ink of their tattoos, ranging from honoring a lost loved one to showing off an important memory