STUDENTS STRESS OVER SCHOOL
GIRLS SOCCER DOMINATES COMPETITION
COLLEGE TUITION Why college tuition should be free [
Three students conquer stress in different ways
New players contribute to team’s success
OPINION, page 4
[ SPECIAL, page 8
hilights Volume 64 ß Issue 3
[ SPORTS, page 11
for students, by students
William R. Boone High School ß1000 E. Kaley St. ßOrlando, FL 32806 ß Friday, December 18, 2015 ß boonepubs.com
Students seek security By NATALIE DISLA Standing and staring in front of both restrooms, transgender students contemplate whether they would rather risk ridicule and snarky comments from boys or girls that day. This gradually has began a national conversation about the need for genderneutral restrooms at public high schools. A l t h o u g h accepting and openminded students exist on campus, students who bully do too. Senior Kirstyn Jeror Jeror, who transitions into a male in January and goes by “Kris,” faces this issue on a daily basis. “I’ve been terrified to use the bathroom here before,” Jeror said. “I was in [a stall in] the bathroom and a couple of guys came in and were like ‘Hey that tranny is in there’ and they all gathered around the same stall I was in. I was so scared to even leave the bathroom.” Junior Shelby Hill, who goes by “Alex,” also experiences a constant struggle with bullying. “It’s just like once they realize whether you are a guy or not they either completely push you out of the bathroom so you cannot go to the bathroom at all, or they’ll reach the point where [they’ll harass you and] they’re like ‘Are you a lesbian?’ Are you a tranny?’,” Hill said. Jeror and Hill represent two of the thousands of students in America facing gender discrimination everyday. On Dec. 3, the Palastine County School Board in Chicago, Ill. changed the policy in their public high school to accommodate a transgender student. They will now allow a transgender girl to use the girls’ locker room along with the other females at her school. If the school failed to do this, they risked losing the $6 million in federal funding they receive every year. This decision could affect Orange County Public Schools because, according to Hill, there are at least four other transgender males and two transgender females on campus. This is one of 19 schools in OCPS. “It would be different if there was one transgender kid at the school, but there are so many that it’s kind of an issue that really needs to get addressed, particularly here,” Hill said. Beyond mental suffering, transgender
WITH THE WITH THE
Orange County enacts initiative By JACK RUMMLER With applications like Edmodo, Quizlet and Kahoot, the modern classroom environment incorporates technology to encourage new learning opportunities. Orange County Public Schools plans to integrate more technology in classrooms with their 1-to-1 project. The project’s plan intends to provide high school students in Orange County with a personal computer. “This initiative will result in more student driven work,” Executive Area Director of Digital Learning Rob Bixler said. “Students will take more ownership of their learning.” The computers help advance learning
of students with laptops by the 2017-18 school year
Turtles can breathe through their butts.
be the Lenovo Yoga brand used in English classes, according to Bixler. Accountability for the computers is still being worked out. “They will be responsible for that one device. Assignments will be a digital backpack for students,” Technology Support Elliott Barnes said. “[The consequences for a student losing or breaking his device] is still being worked out. Based on other schools, administration will make judgment calls about replacement.” The shift to a technologically enhanced classroom will advance
7 5 %
100%
[ RESTROOMS, page 6
ßrandomfact
and college and career readiness. Every OCPS high school student should have a computer by the 2016-17 school year, according to OCPS Superintendent Dr. Barbara Jenkins. Middle school students should have a computer by 2017. This 1-to-1 initiative will be instituted nationwide by 2020. “We have faster access to research and students can now do [assignments] at home,” English teacher Athena Melnicki said. “The computers have been great for discussion and peer editing via Google Drive.” The district predicts an estimated cost of $630 per student, with funds coming from the state and district. The computers will most likely
of curriculum will be digital
[ 1-TO-1, page 6
58% of students depend on personal technology
source/ORANGE COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS AND NATIONAL CENTER FOR EDUCATIONAL STATISTICS
INDEX opinion 2 campus & local 6 special 10
sports 11 entertainment 15 restaurant review 16
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insight sight
Natalie Disla, Editor’s Letter
Political issues stir discussion With the presidential election approaching, debates over free college tuition and how to handle ISIS escalate. And as LGBT acceptance increases, the possibility of gender-neutral facilities grows. As these topics affect students in our community, we decided to cover them in this issue. As a senior in high school, it is extremely concerning to know the average student graduates college with $29,000 in debt. This places a major burden on obtaining a higher education and is unfair for those who cannot afford it. Although free college tuition has obvious negatives, such as an increase in taxes, the benefits outweigh the costs. If everyone can obtain a college degree, crime rates and unemployment will decrease too. Funding college tuition allows average students, who would not usually attend university, the opportunity to do so. Depriving them of this can only harm the United States’ prosperity. Once college tuition is free, more citizens will pursue degrees that require higher education, such as doctors and lawyers, who have not done so earlier due to lack of funds. The establishment of genderneutral restrooms prevails as another current topic. Although they could be costly, all public high schools should institute gender-neutral restrooms. If transgender students cannot legally use the restroom they identify with, they should at least have the opportunity to feel safe in a gender-neutral restroom. Yes, the amount of transgender students at this school appears miniscule; however, some students identify as gender-fluid and would use these restrooms too. The minority should not remain oppressed and deserves representation in this democracy. ISIS remains a major political issue causing thousands of deaths. As one of the most advanced nations, many believe the U.S. should fight ISIS, especially now that its ally, France, declared war against them after the Paris attacks in November. However, fighting ISIS will prove difficult when the amount of people, weapons and power remain unknown. If ISIS has not harmed the U.S., the U.S. lacks a valid reason to declare war against them. The cost of sending troops, weapons and resources risks too much. But as soon as ISIS attacks on American soil, the U.S. should declare war and protect its citizens. Check out what our writers have to say about free college tuition (“Free the fee,” page 3), gender-neutral restrooms (“Prioritize toilet safety,” page 2) and ISIS (“Fighting a faceless threat,” page 3) in this issue.
Even though transgender individuals are the minority, they still should be represented in society and have access to facilities that best suit them. Our View, staff editorial
Prioritize toilet safety viewpoint
N
hilights
All students should have access to bathrooms that make them feel safe.
ßkeyterms Transgender denoting or relating to a person whose self-identity does not conform unambiguously to conventional notions of male or female gender. Cisgender denoting or relating to a person whose self-identity conforms with the gender that corresponds to their biological sex. Gender-fluid denoting or relating to a person who changes their gender as they please. One day they may be male the next, famele.
If you have ever entered the wrong bathroom you know how out of place it can feel. Transgender individuals feel this way daily. With gender neutral bathrooms gaining support, Orange County Public Schools, the nation’s 10th largest district, needs to follow suit. Over 150 colleges across the United States have gender-neutral bathrooms on their campuses, according to the University of Massachusetts Amherst’s LGBTQ organization, The Stonewall Center. Discrimination based on gender identity is illegal. Therefore, when schools do not provide equal facilities to transgender students, they are breaking federal law. ‘All gender’ bathrooms keep individuals safe, because transgender individuals are more often the victims of violence compared to any other group. People who identify as gender-neutral are 28 percent more likely to experience violence than non-transgender people, according to the Gay and Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation. This percentage increases with transgender individuals of color. There is a misconception that gender-neutral bathrooms have a higher occurrence of violence and sexual assault. Gender signs on bathrooms do not deter assaulters, they will do whatever they deem necessary to carry out an assault. Even with this concern still relevant, schools have the option of single stall restrooms. With all the options available, gender-open facilities do more good than harm. When students consider themselves a different gender, but have not gone through a full gender transition, they do not feel comfortable in either restroom. Gender-neutral bathrooms give students options that are not usually available. Forcing students to use a bathroom of the gender they do not identify with causes students to have psychological issues, such as, anxiety. Mental illness is a reoccurring problem for teens and adding the extra stress of picking a bathroom will only have a negative effect. Students perform their best academically and socially when they feel safe and have access to safe spaces on campus. Increasing the number of gender-open bathrooms provides a level of safety for transgender individuals. If schools add gender-neutral facilities to campuses, students who do not consider themselves transgender will still have access to gendered bathrooms, but they can also use gender-neutral restrooms. Adding these bathrooms will give everyone a ‘safe space’. Gender-neutral bathrooms do not replace traditional ones; they become an addition to campuses. Often, schools change the sign on the family restrooms to a gender-neutral
Illustration/JESSIE JALCA
one. By only changing the restroom signs, schools will not have an extra expense to accommodate this change. With the money OCPS will spend on the 1to1 program, which would provide every student with his own laptop, they could prioritize these funds for individual students rights and safety. For those whose gender identity does not fit into the clear-cut gender roles, going to the bathroom feels like a risk and an embarrassment. These students have to choose which bathroom to enter and often risk violence and bullying. Forcing students to choose a restroom makes them feel as though they are constantly outing themselves. Gender-neutral bathrooms not only benefit transgender individuals, they can be used as family and wheelchair accessible bathrooms as well. Even though transgender individuals are the minority, they still should be represented in society and have access to facilities that best suit them. Everyone has to use the restroom; so all students deserve an equal opportunity to feel safe. By putting these bathrooms on all campuses around the U.S., students will perform better academically and socially because they feel safe. Along with school performance, gender violence will decrease. Students deserve to feel as comfortable as possible while in school.
ßpublicforum How should OCPS handle students who are not fully transitioned and want to use the restroom or locker room that they best identify? Here’s what some of you had to say on the topic.
Make the choice at 18
No, I do not think they should be able to change in/use the locker room or bathroom of the gender they identify with. They are not able to be fully transitioned until they are 18, so they should not be able to make that choice until they are 18. I think it should be the same as it has been for centuries and this also brings up [issues with] privacy for the people who actually possess that gender, that they have to now share a bathroom/ locker room with someone of a different gender.
Karl Schaefer, junior
Send letters to the editor to HiLights, 1000 E. Kaley St., Orlando, FL 32806, or drop off in Room 224. You can also send to boonepubs@gmail. com. Letters may be edited for length and clarity. To be considered for print, all letters must be signed and cannot contain libelous information.
Schools have more important things to discuss
I feel that unless you have made a full transition you should have to go in the locker room or restroom of their own, actual gender no matter what you identify yourself as. Situations like this make it complicated for schools to deal with and only distracts from real, relevant situations the school board should address. It may sound harsh, but many people are just looking to be offended and in reality, how much time does a student spend in a locker room or bathroom during a school day?
Parker Robins, junior
End the segregation
I believe that OCPS should let students who are not fully transitioned use the restroom or locker room that they best identify. I don’t think it’s fair to force them to have to identify themselves as a gender that they aren’t. It also seems unfair to seclude them and make a separate sanction or “area” labeled for them only. That would create segregation.
Rachel Cruz, sophomore
Add a family restroom
I think OCPS should have a private locker room used for a student to change, not only for transgender [individuals], but those not comfortable undressing around others. For the bathrooms, we should have one “family” restroom of which can be used for anybody who needs privacy to do their business.
Brittney Smith, sophomore
Protection comes first
I’m a very passionate person about this topic. Being transgender/genderfluid is something that is hard to do either way. How they’re handling this is offensive to transgender/gender fluid students. OCPS needs to create
gender-neutral bathrooms/locker rooms for those students. They need to protect these students from certain things, yes, but you can’t offend them then say you’re protecting them. Transgender boys usually wear binders and boxers so you can’t see their breast/butt. Transgender girls often do the same. They’re very hidden and usually hate themselves so genderneutral areas are probably the best bet due to those factors.
Savanna Edwards, sophomore
Transitioning is not everything
Not everyone has the means to transition and they are no less a man or woman than a cisgender man or woman. They deserve to be treated with respect and not insolated with a curtain like they’re some freak. Like, if you’re going to assume a trans girl is going to look at the other girls the way a man would you’re also assuming the other girls are straight. So you’re being transphobic and homophobic at the same time, which takes a special skill. Let them use the bathroom, like why is this an issue?
Christina Morejon, senior
Friday, December 18, 2015 boonepubs.com
hilights insight KEY CLUB STREET CLEAN UP
WHAT DO YOU THINK AMERICA SHOULD DO ABOUT ISIS?
On Thursday, Jan. 28, Key Club will participate in a street clean up. The group does the street clean up the last Thursday of every month.
Jan. 2014 ISIS takes control of Fallujha
Timeline 2010
Feb. 3 al-Qaeda cuts ties with ISIS
June 10 ISIS takes control of Mosul in Iraq
2010 Abu Bakr AlBaghadadi becomes leader of ISIS
Jan. 14 ISIS takes control of Raqqa in Syria
They should try to enforce peace in the Middle East. Wilbert Rosario Rodriguez, sophomore
June 29 June 15 Declaration of a new Kurdish forces Islamic state regulate Rabia and Syria’s borders
2014 June 11 June 10 After militants ISIS seizes Tikrit attack Baquba, 18 bodies are found dead
3
Aug. 19 ISIS executes American journalist James Foley
Sept. 22 U.S. and five Arab allies begin conducting airstrikes in Syria source: TIME MAGAZINE
Aug. 7 President Obama June 16 authorizes airstrikes Obama sends 275 troops to protect the on ISIS strongholds embassy in Baghdad
Sept. 19 ISIS besieges Kobane for four months
2015 Nov. 2015 ISIS claims responsibility for Paris bombing that killed 130
viewpoint
Fighting a faceless threat America should not get involved in another conflict in the Middle East.
ISIS poses a threat to all Western culture
#fastfigures
35
thousand people are involved in ISIS’s armed forces
4 million dollars, the amount of money ISIS brings in each day
13 thousand square miles are under ISIS control in Iraq and Syria
0
openly practicing Christians are thought to be left in the city of Mosul, which ISIS now controls.
300 Yazidi women have been taken hostage by ISIS. source: THE HUFFINGTON POST
By CARSTON CARASELLA ISIS puts fear in the hearts of people across the western world. However, there are still people in the United States and Europe who do not know who or what ISIS represents. Furthermore, people do not realize that the U.S. does not need to fully involve its military forces in a conflict in the Middle East. The Islamic State of Iraq and Syria is a radical Sunni Islamic organization based out of Raqqa in Eastern Syria who specializes in extortion, acts of terrorism and a strong hatred for western culture and civilization. ISIS orchestrated hundreds of executions and claims responsibility for the Paris attacks on Nov. 13. They also represent a highly organized terrorist nerve center, as they enveloped what was left of al-Qaeda, and threaten major cities across western Europe and the United States with attacks similar to the one conducted in Paris. If one thing can be inferred, it is that ISIS embodies a bigger threat than people first realized. Despite this clear and present danger, these facts do not warrant a full U.S. military invasion into Syria and Iraq since the present fighting in that region of the world does not concern the U.S., but rather the native Shi’a, Iraqi and Kurdish forces. What makes fighting ISIS so difficult is that, for the longest time, pinpointing where they came from or how many operated in their group was near impossible. Over time, patterns of leadership emerged showing a form of hierarchy within ISIS. Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi represents the group’s Caliph, or Commander in Chief. Underneath him are governors who control ISIS’s territorial gain in Iraq and Syria. A cabinet of advisors oversees the finances, black market
hilightsnewspaper
EDITORIAL BOARD
Editor-In-Chief Natalie Disla Copy Editor Cameron Toperzer Design Editor Jessie q Business Manager Bridget Hartig Digital Media Manager Tyler Rispoli Index Editor Jack Rummler STAFFERS Carston Carasella, Julia Condes, Camille Kalis, Carly Meyer, Marisa Muhart, Cassady Quintana
OTHER
Adviser Renée Burke
Principal Dusty Johns
illustration/JESSIE JALCA
oil deals, extortion rackets and land management of the group. While ISIS remains a real threat, that does not mean the U.S. must fully involve themselves in a conflict in the Middle East. Over the past two years, the U.S. bombed ISIS strongholds and stockpiles in response to the execution of American journalists, James Foley. However, the only real solution to ISIS comes from breaking their hold on Iraq and Syria, a task that falls to the two country’s native people. Since the fall of Fallujah in early 2014, Shi’a and Kurdish militias continue fighting ruthlessly against ISIS. After the Iraqi army fell apart at the battle of Mosul, it was left to these bands of Shi’a resistance to hold back the flow of ISIS forces. For the past year and a half they have done just that, as groups like Badr led successful counterattacks against ISIS and drove them back to the outskirts of Fallujah. This proves that a full-blown American military campaign in the Middle East represents an overbearing
and irrational move as the native resistance forces are already driving ISIS militias back. One of the most feared men in the region, Hadi al-Amiri, leads the Badr Organization. In an interview with CBS News concerning the U.S.’s involvement in the conflict Hadi said, “Why do you need to bring American soldiers to die on Iraqi ground? We have young Iraqi men who are able to defend their country if they had the equipment. It would be shameful for us.” The people of Iraq and Syria do not need American soldiers to fight their war for them, but rather support their cause and aid those in need. As one can see, even the groups fighting ISIS first-hand do not want direct U.S. military involvement as they can handle the threat on their own. ISIS represents a major threat
Editorial Policy POLICY STATEMENT
Hilights is a student publication of William R. Boone High School, 1000 E. Kaley Ave., Orlando, Florida, 32806. The ideas and views of the aforementioned students and faculty are not those of Boone or the Orange County School Board. Opinions expressed in unsigned editorials are those of the editorial board, who determine the content. Opinions expressed in columns are those of the authors. Comments, letters, stories and ideas are welcome and encouraged under the following: 1. The material is not obscene or libelous 2. The material is signed The staff reserves the right to edit letters for grammar, length, punctuation, accuracy, invasion of privacy and potential disruption of the school.
to all Western culture, and if left unchecked, will cause grievous harm to the American way of life. The group is highly organized, dedicated and more powerful than first imagined. ISIS is a problem that America should focus its attention on, but not one the country needs to lose lives fighting firsthand. The U.S. must leave the fighting to those in Iraq and Syria who have been doing so for the past year. The fact remains that the Middle East is not under U.S. jurisdiction, so their conflicts do not directly correlate with the United States military. While supporting the Shi’a resistance fighters in Iraq with weapons and supplies represents a viable option, the U.S. can in no way shape or form put boots on the ground in a conflict that has no direct correlation to U.S. armed forces. The U.S. needs to show the world that it can’t solve everyone’s problems, but that it will support its allies whenever possible.
SCHOLASTIC ASSOCIATIONS
Hilights is associated with Florida Scholastic, Columbia Scholastic and National Scholastic Press Associations and Quill and Scroll.
OUR MISSION
This paper is a quality product whose sole purpose is to pursue the truth, and to provide information and factual news pertaining to Boone and the community around it. Any questions or comments can be directed to 407-893-7200, extension 6012614 or Room 224, as well as by email to editor at boonepubs@gmail.com. If you find any errors, please call our offices or visit us.
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insight hilights
BRAVE AID
DO YOU THINK COLLEGE TUITION SHOULD BE FREE?
The 31st annual Brave Aid is Jan. 22. Tickets cost $5 at the door and the show starts at 6 p.m. Proceeds go to Honor Flight, a charity that provides veterans the chance to see the D.C. memorial.
Not for all of the ivy leagues and the more competitive colleges because the better the school, the better the education, so it should be more expensive. Salem Thomas, freshman
#fastfigures
Free the fee viewpoint
By CARLY MEYER In the last 10 years college prices rose by 3.4 percent. The menacing and glooming price of college tuition remains a financial problem. The recession came to an end, however over half of Americans remain unprepared for financial emergencies, and a third of those Americans have no savings for things like college tuition. Over half either spend more than they make or break even, according to the Pew Charitable Trusts. With people in debt and students that deserve to go to college, tuition should be free, as it would benefit all. Eighteen million students go to college, but 32 percent of high school graduates do not and of those who do attend college, about 43 percent attend community college, generally a less expensive option, according to The Bureau of Labor Statistics. Eighty percent of students pay for college without support of their parents because of the recent recession, or their grades were not good enough to earn scholarships, or they support themselves, according to CNBC. College tuition should be free because denying a student the right to education is unethical. If a student academically qualifies for college, but cannot afford to pay the tuition fee the college charges, it seems inappropriate to limit their education because they cannot afford it. Being an intelligent candidate holds more potential weight to getting an education than the financial ability to pay. The Declaration of Independence itself states that everyone deserves the right to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. All people deserve the right to go to college and learn so they can make
52
percent of students believe college tuition should be free
College tuition should be free. It is an ethical, and effective way to secure employment .
94 percent of those students believe there should be a specific requirement
78
percent of students are only willing to pay an additional 5% or less on taxes illustration/TRIBUNE NEWS SERVICE/DON WRIGHT
a living and pursue a happy, healthy and successful life. Knowledge is an effective way to secure employment and decrease crime rates. The unemployment rate for those who earn less than a high school degree is 19 percent. The unemployment rate for those with at least a bachelor’s degree is less than half of that, seven percent, according to the National Center for Education Statistics. Higher unemployment rates historically lead to higher poverty and crime rates. A report from the Alliance for Excellent Education links lower levels of educational attainment with higher rates of arrests and incarceration. Fifty six percent of federal inmates and 67 percent of inmates in state prisons did not complete high school, according to the U.S. Bureau of Justice. If college education became affordable, surely these statistics would decrease. The future depends on ensuring that quality education continues and becomes available to as many people as possible. Having more educated people in the world benefits all. If colleges instituted free tuition, students who live
source: 321 students polled, Dec. 10
with difficult financial situations, yet own the ambition and knowledge to become future leaders in science, math, politics, technology, medicine and more, would then have the opportunity to contribute to society in a way they potentially would not have otherwise. This ensures higher quality of life and the progression of the human race. Critics argue that this is unrealistic and too expensive. However, other countries already implement free college tuition. Europe is well known for colleges that offer free tuition such as Lund University, Holmstad University, Uppsala University and Stockholm University. Lund and Holmstad University have strong science and health fields, and Uppsala University is well known for it’s technology. Europeans pay a 54.9 percent tax rate to afford free colleges and healthcare, and since this number is completely unreasonable for Americans, we could implement a similar and cheaper system. If a free college tuition plan is ever approved, it will not only be better for students, but better for this generation, and generations to come.
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thenews Teninten “I choose high-wasted shorts or pretty scarves for winter.” - Joanne Nguyen, sophomore
1-TO-1[ from, page 1
schools nationwide, but not everyone thinks this technological shift is positive. “I don’t like the fact that it makes me distracted. I can’t really focus on screens, and it gives you more leeway to not be focused,” freshman Emily Fussell said. “More kids will be [distracted] on their [devices] when they should be researching.” Other students agree with Fussell that computers allow for more distraction than traditional textbooks. “[Textbooks] help me because I like to underline information and rather learn hands-on than visually,” sophomore Breanna Roberts said. How the traditional classroom environment will change between regular-note taking and homework remains a concern to teachers and students. One change for teachers and students is that technology will transition to mainly an online environment. Instruction can occur on or off campus with technology-rich lessons. “I think students will be apprehensive [of losing a traditional classroom environment] at first, but they will see using programs such as Doceri [program where one can project their screen from a tablet] where I can use a stylus to grid or work out a problem, they will find it easier to duplicate their skills with practice,” math teacher who is on the 1 to 1 training team Jeff Biery said. More concerns come with wireless Internet problems off campus. Students who can not access the Internet from home will face challenges to complete
I would choose leg-warmers because they are very practical. Michael McKillop, sophomore
We asked 10 students to answer, “What do you wish would come back into fashion and why?” in 10 words.
Compiled by BRIDGET HARTIG
“I choose Heelys so I could slide in your DM’s.” -Cameron Sexton, senior
“I would choose nineties fashion. I really love the style.” - Jalea Wilson, junior
hilights
“I choose jelly shoes just because they were so ugly.” - Adrian Pennington, sophomore
“Baggy pants because they are more comfortable than regular jeans.” - Mercedes Brathwaite, senior
assignments. However, Bright House Networks offers a $10 per month Internet service for those who have a limited budget. On campus Wi-Fi capabilities are also a concern. Wi-Fi can cause disruptions in class, consumes more time and can often run slow. Dead spots throughout the school also affect web based teaching in classrooms. The current system and equipment is not sufficient. With an expected 3,600 devices schoolwide, struggles with electricity and Internet connectivity are concerns OCPS Facilities intend to address. A major overhaul in April 2016 will improve these problems. Orange County’s Facilities Department said that all schools will see full functionality by August 2016. The goal for this initiative embraces student-driven work and marketability for future occupations. One to one also gives students who do not have technology at home the opportunity to be on the same level as a student who does and will bring learning to a new level. “[One to one] is important because it’ll give opportunity to kids who can not afford computers. They’ll have trouble succeeding in the marketplace without this opportunity,” Biery said. “The thing about 1-to-1 is even if the majority of my students had access to a computer, it wasn’t a guarantee with one or two students. Now I know that every child will have the same technology and the same opportunity. We’ll have a 100 percent possession rate.” 1 to 1 will improve the way students gain access to learning and resources. While not everyone is prepared for the change that a technological classroom will bring, it is fastly approaching as a nationwide agenda.
“I choose jumpers (Overalls.) You only have to wear a shirt.” - Jasmin Perez-Martinez, senior
“I’d say vests because they are better than regular jackets.” - Joshvan Cruz, junior
“I choose overalls because they are so trendy and different.” - Catherine Demer, sophomore
“I wish belts would come back “Intricate designs they used because I hate sagging.” to have on button up shirts.” - Nya Thornton, freshman - Wyatt Hoevannar, freshman
RESTROOMS [ from, page 1
students also experience medical issues because they are uncomfortable and feel unwelcome, when using either bathroom. “It has become an issue so much that people will stop using the restroom. I know friends that don’t use the restroom so much that they sit in school having to pee and get UTIs,” Hill said. Although students accept sharing a restroom with someone who is not completely transitioned, others feel uncomfortable I want the when a student may not right to feel biologically be the same safe while gender as them. “I would personally be I go to the offended, as they would bathroom. be offended for not being allowed [to use the restroom It’s a basic or locker room],” freshman human right. Caroline Casola said. “I Shelby “Alex” Hill would be uncomfortable junior because while they may not transgender male be attracted to me, they still have a different part.” This public predisposition tends to isolate transgender students and deprive them of their basic rights, guaranteed by Title IX, which prohibits any form of gender discrimination, including transgender individuals, in federally funded programs, such as public high schools. “We need to be protected in our own basic right because at this point it’s not marriage or ‘I want extra privileges’. No, it’s ‘I want the right to feel safe while I go to the bathroom.’ It’s a basic human right. It’s a bigger issue for me to pee than it is for people to stop bullying [me],” Hill said. A similar controversy arose in Missouri when a senior male identified as a female and used female facilities, even though a gender-neutral facility was available. She believed she deserved equal treatment and rights as the other girls at the school. This enraged certain students who then organized a walkout. The transgender student and
her supporters then organized a rally in response. The outcome of this controversy remains unclear, as the Hillsboro School District’s policies against gender discrimination do not include transgender individuals. Although students may not agree on how to handle this situation, they agree that this topic deserves discussion and gender-neutral restrooms may serve as a common-ground. “I think it’s important to [address gender neutral restrooms] because it’s becoming a hot topic. It’s prominent now,” junior Jason Patrick said. While transgender students would prefer to use the restroom they identify with without the risk of mockery or harassment, they believe, gender-neutral restrooms advance society towards a step in the right direction. Additionally, any student may use genderneutral restrooms, preventing transgender individuals from feeling isolated. However, the addition of these facilities on any OCPS campuses remains unclear. “It’s hard to predict [when these restrooms will be instituted],” OCPS Board Chairman Bill Sublette said. “Something that might cause a change is if we saw an overwhelming of public demand.” Although there are transgender and genderfluid students on this campus and other campuses in OCPS, gender-neutral restrooms are not getting any attention due to a lack of voice and public demand. Transgender students do not have the support to gain pertinence. “They’re not the ones feeling any pain by this. We’re the ones that are feeling [it.] If they could live a day in our shoes, I think they would be fighting just as hard for bathrooms, at the least. In this school especially,” Hill said. Until the general public demonstrates their desire for change, OCPS will not start discussing this issue or its potential funding.
referto To read the staff’s Our View “Prioritize toilet safety” on gender neutral bathrooms and other student’s opinions on the topic, turn to page 2.
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Friday, December 18, 2015 boonepubs.com
specialfeature
hilights [Stress] can get to be overwhelming, but in the end I have very supportive friends that make every day worth it. Tyler Rispoli, junior
Let’s talk about
STRESS
ßstudytime
Get in the zone To properly study, one needs mental tranquility to receive the full benefits of a strong study session. Students need to put themselves in the proper mindset when they are studying to fully retain the knowledge presented to them. Listening to music, meditating, organizing work and shutting off computers and phones can help get students into a studying mode.
Group study sessions Studying in a group can show students new ideas and perspectives on the subject that would be otherwise lost to them if they were to study on their own. Try to find friends with the same classes, a family member with knowledge in that subject or join tutoring sessions with a teacher. 30
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Outline and rewrite
Repetition is the key to learning. Outlining and rewriting notes will help further instill the information into students’ minds. Bulleting the information, highlighting key terms and summarizing long paragraphs are all helpful tools.
Find a tranquil place When studying, students should look for places that are comforting to them and will keep distractions away. Notable examples are quiet rooms and libraries.
By JESSIE JALCA Although people across all generations experience stress, teenagers particularly familiarize themselves with stress when juggling schoolwork, clubs, sports, volunteer work and jobs. “I tend to have a lot of mental breakdowns when I have work and only an hour after school to do homework and make sure I get everything done for yearbook. It’s also even more stressful when I have a lot of freelance projects to do that are also on deadline,” Boone Publications Social Media Manager Tyler Rispoli, junior, said. When overwhelmed, teenagers suffer from symptoms such as emotional distress, elevations in blood pressure, rapid heartbeat, dizziness and migraines. But along with the ailments of stress, treatments can make it manageable. The best ways to cope with stress vary for each person and situation, but the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention advocates exercising, getting at least seven hours of sleep and maintaining a healthy diet. The National Institute of Mental Health recommends students participate in some form of exercise that releases built up stress, such as tai chi and yoga. While homework, jobs, sports and other extracurriculars may limit the amount of sleep a student obtains, one should realize that without sleep, stress cultivates. Lack of sleep harms the entire body, especially the brain. NIMH suggests seeking advice or help from friends, family, professionals, community or religious organizations. Venting tends to effectively help relieve students’ stress levels. “Simply letting the adults in your life know you feel overwhelmed can be stress relieving,” registered Mental Health intern and counselor Betsy Jackson said. “Sometimes they can help, but even if they cannot, there is some relief in being heard and understood.” Rispoli agrees, believing friends can effectively help reduce stress. “[Stress] can get to be overwhelming, but in the end I have very supportive friends that make every day worth it,” Rispoli said. StudyPoint, an American tutoring company for kindergarten through 12th, stresses maintaining organization and prioritization. It advises scheduling, setting activities at fixed times and taking deadlines into consideration. It also suggests sustaining organized workspaces. Stress endures regardless of how much one tries to eliminate it; individuals have a higher ability of managing stress than preventing stress. But one can find comfort in the fact that good stress exists too. According to Jackson, good stress exists in difficult workouts a coach may give players to increase athletic abilities. “That pressure feels uncomfortable, but it has a positive outcome,” Jackson said. Positive or negative effects of stress often depend solely on one’s reaction. Various reactions likewise depend on different experiences and levels of tolerance. Furthermore, maintaining a positive attitude, taking note of one’s accomplishments, doing one’s best to enjoy life, laughing often and avoiding dwelling on problems can diminish stress. When the worst arises, take a break from time to time. Participating in too many activities at once do not amount to damaging one’s health.
How does stress affect the brain? AS A WHOLE. Chronic stress can shrink the brain, particularly parts of the brain involved in higher order reasoning and decision making.
PREFONTAL CORTEX. Stressful experiences disengages the frontal lobe. Over time, this can lead to impulsive, short-sighted or possibly violent behavior. HIPPOCAMPUS & AMYGDALA. The hippothalmus and pituitary gland cause the adrenal glands to pump out high levels of the stress hormone coritsol. This makes organizing the memory difficult. Memories lose context and become fragmented. AMYGDALA. Chronic stress increases the activity level and number of neural connections in the amygdala, the brain’s fear center. LOCUS COERULEUS. The locus coeruleus receives signals from the amygdala, triggering rapid heartbeat, increased blood pressure, sweating and pupil dilation. source: CORPORATE EDGE LEADERSHIP
KEEP IT TRILL. During marching band practice, junior Anjali Shinde plays the flute. “[My advice for people in band is that] they should do their homework before rehearsal. It‘s a mistake that I have yet to correct,” Shinde said. Shinde has been playing the flute since the sixth grade.
Athlete b school, p Basketball player Justin Butler juggles honors classes and basketball By CASSADY QUINTANA Sweat dripping down his face, junior Justin Butler prepares to finish his last suicide. While the rest of his teammates head home, Butler throws on a red shirt, khaki pants and a nametag and races to work. In addition to taking two honors classes, English and U.S History, Butler plays the guard position on the basketball team. He has also worked as a Target cashier for four weeks. “My schedule for Target is never the same, it fluctuates a lot, but I usually work every other day. It affects school and basketball greatly because when I’m at work I can’t do my homework, so that makes me stay up late,” Butler said. Butler prepares himself for obstacles that student athletes face beyond the court, such as stress by prioritizing tasks. Stress is the constant dilemma student athletes face. When busy with athletics, school and work is the last thing on their minds. “[School] is our number one thing. You have to be a student first, athlete second. One thing colleges first ask is how are the grades and test scores,” boys’ basketball coach David Martinson
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said. Butler wo puts in time as non-athle The Ohio Sta State Unive schools to fu “[My par They always and basketba grades freque extra help a basketball,” B Butler has working as a “The thin there is the usually in a g Although Target, he ad His test studying tim of the seaso grades. “The bad
Friday, December 18, 2015 boonepubs.com
hilights specialfeature EDGEWATER BASKETBALL GAME
WHAT STRESSES YOU OUT THE MOST?
Come out and support the boys’ basketball team during their game against Edgewater High School at 2:30 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 23.
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Tests because they decide a majority of my grade. Elijah Cruzada, freshman
Flutist struggles with stress Band causes extra stress for students By CAMILLE KALIS
photo/MEGAN PIRINO
Three hours after the final bell rings, junior Anjali Shinde’s stress level pounds to the beat of the drums as she marches with the Sound of the Braves band practice. Staying on top of school work can be difficult for band students. Band requires Shinde to stay after school twice a week for three hours during marching season, which can add up to 24 hours a month. On game days, Shinde staysat school until 11 or 12 p.m. “During the fall, we have a really intense practice schedule for marching season and it makes it really hard to stay on top of school,” Shinde said. Shinde has been playing the flute in band for six years. Surviving under the stress still remains a challenge for
balances part time job
d thing is I don’t always
competition with the people around you, which can get stressful, but it’s also fun and encourages you to get better,” Shinde said. Shinde uses an effective studying routine to keep grades up by reading over class notes and looking over homework. “I try my hardest to remind myself that I just got to graduate,” Shinde said. Although band causes stress, it also creates a tight-knit family of students. “Band has helped me this year and every year, by surrounding me with good people. Band kids are my support network. All of my friends are band kids and I am so glad I am a part of such a big family,” Shinde said. Three hours after the final bell rings and Shinde is still at marching band practice, but even if it causes stress she is doing something she loves with friends.
SUM IT UP. Junior Sophia Brown and seniors Jessica Edwards and Nathan Fontaine work on a math problem in Math Club. “I really hope to finish with a 4.0 GPA and get into a really good college,” Edwards said.
photo/CATHERINE MENDOZA
AP student SKOOB conquerors stress Student deals with stress of AP classes
photo/MATTHEW CASLER
acking the basket Justin Butler looks to score. “I plan on taking he next level and [playing] at the collegiate level,” Butler said. Butler uard position in his third year of high school basketball.
orks towards his goals and to achieve the same grades etes. He wants to attend ate University or Michigan ersity, both division 1 urther his basketball career. rents] are very supportive. tell me school comes first all second. They check my ently and get me tutors for and a personal trainer for Butler said. s enjoyed the last month of a Target team member. ng I like most about working e atmosphere. People are good mood,” Butler said. h Butler values his job at dmits it can be stressful. scores and amount of me drop during the course on resulting in low class
her and can be difficult to fix. “I just focus on the fact that I really love what I’m doing. Sometimes I get caught up in the stress but I have to remember I’m involved in music because I love it,” Shinde said. Band can add stress to parents’ lives too. “Marching season definitely increases my stress level every year. As a single parent of two children, I do come to rely on my daughter’s help around the house. Also, since she doesn’t drive yet, it adds stress needing to get her and/or her bicycle between home and rehearsals, games and marching competitions,” Shine’s mother, Edie Berman, said. Band competitions cause stress not only because they compete with other schools but they also compete against fellow band students. “There’s a constant struggle for first place. You’re always having
have time for studying or homework. It occupies my time so I have to stay up late some nights. I usually go to bed around 11:30 p.m. to 12:30 a.m. depending on how much homework I have.” Butler handles his stress by sleeping and exercising. “Rest is super important. You have to rest well, eat well, and play well,” Martinson said. Like all coaches, Martinson wants his players to be 100 percent dedicated. “You have to get your focus in line. If we are at practice, that should be your focus. You do not need to worry about anything else for those two hours. Focus on the positive and what you need to get done,” Martinson said. To get the most out of themselves, athletes have to show selfdetermination. Butler treats basketball like anything else. He puts in time, practice and effort into perfecting and improving his level of play.
By CAMILLE KALIS Advanced Placement classes add work and stress to teens lives. Senior Jessica Edwards, who takes seven AP classes, works to elevate her grades without becoming too stressed. Because she spends four hours a day studying, Edwards gets around five hours of sleep on weekdays. Edward’s heavy workload comes from AP European History, AP Calculus BC, AP Physics C, AP Art History, AP U.S. Government, AP Literature, AP Microeconomics. It is also from the many extracurricular activities she actively participates in. “I worry that Jessica doesn’t get enough sleep because she is up late every night doing her homework. Sometimes, she is doing homework when I go to sleep at night and then I find her doing her homework when I wake up in the morning. Something’s got to give, and for Jessica, it is her sleep,” Kim Edwards, Jessica’s mother, said. Scheduling and working out helps keep her stress down. J. Edwards said she takes so many AP classes because of college admissions. These classes give students a head start on college credits and set them apart from other students during the application process. J. Edwards’ hopes to receive acceptance into Columbia
University and major in human rights. “I started taking a heavy load of AP classes because I was interested in the material and wanted to get the most out of my high school experience. Now, it is mostly to remain competitive with other applicants in the college application process,” J. Edwards said. Additionally, J. Edwards is an officer in Mu Alpha Theta, HOSA, FCA and the tennis team. J. Edwards’ studying routine and de-stressing methods help to reduce the stress from these extracurriculars. “Working out, downtime with friends and planning help me handle [my] stress,” J. Edwards said. Staying motivated under the stress is not a problem for J. Edwards. “[I have] a really good support base, a lot of people are there for me [and know] I am not defined by grades and I am more than just a GPA,” J. Edwards said. Students’ stress may not only come from the courses themselves, but also come from their family’s expectations. “[Parents] can unintentionally contribute to stress by putting too much pressure on their kids to get that magical passing grade on the AP exam. The positive outcome of my efforts is mostly what motivates me,” J. Edwards said.
BOOKS
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hilights
featurestories
We’re trying to bust away any stereotype our genre has like a bunch of angry white men yelling,” Quinten Koroshetz sophomore
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ßnews2note local School grades simulate success
On Dec. 9, the department of education released simulated grades for the 2014-15 school year. These school grades were evaluated differently than years prior. Usually, grades are based on test scores and learning gains, but since DOE changed the test, there is nothing to compare the test scores to. Critics believe these simulated grades do not reflect schools accurately and often gave the schools higher grades than they deserved.
Orange County Sheriffs Office increases security
With the recent attack in California, the Orange County Sheriffs Office says it will increase security around populated areas within Orlando to protect citizens from potential terrorist attacks. The sheriff’s office has assigned officers to patrol large events and ensure safety.
photo/JOE BURBANK/ORLANDO SENTINEL/MCT
state photo/DIEGO SALISBURY
TUNE IN. At Down To The Wire’s house show in September, sophomore Quinten Koroshetz tunes his guitar for the next song. “[That show] was beyond amazing. It was so great to see everyone having a good time and seeing them sing along to the songs. After the show we all jumped in the lake out back, and it almost looked like the end of a movie or something. It all was so much fun,” Koroshetz said. Forty people attended this show.
Sophomore discovers passion ßtheband Why do you love being in a band? Quinten Koroshetz, guitar and drums Because it’s so cool how positive, close and accepting everyone is. We have a great, friendly vibe.
Sehyr Ali, vocals Because it feels great to share ideas and create something that has meaning.
Doguhan Karahan, bass, guitar and backup vocals Because you get to combine people with similar interests, and you have a lot of fun doing it.
Trang Nyguen, guitar and backup vocals Because you’re not alone. Lucky for me, I get to share the stage with an incredibly talented group of people. I get to celebrate every success with them, and when things get tough, I have reliable people to turn to. I know that this bond we have is unbreakable.
Quinten Koroshetz and his friends collaborate as bandmates and get ‘Down To The Wire’ By CARLY MEYER Standing on a street corner as traffic roars past on the four way intersection, and music blares from car windows, waiting for tips, 12-year-old Quinten Koroshetz plucks a rhythm on his bass alongside the road while neighbor Jesse King bangs on the drums. Growing up, sophomore Q. Koroshetz’s father exposed him to music. His father, John Koroshetz played in a punk rock band. Q. Koroshetz’s first concerts and shows included seeing his dad perform, which intrigued him and sparked his passion. “We’ve always had a jam room with every instrument you can imagine while Quinten was growing up and nothing has really been off limits to the kids,” J. Koroshetz said. “He’s been listening to, playing and recording music with the family pretty much since he was born.” Through jamming with his dad and seeing him perform, Q. Koroshetz’s involvement with music intensified. “I played piano in pre-school, and it was off and on- not a hugely important thing for me as a kid,” Q. Koroshetz said. “I never really thought about playing another instrument but a few years ago my parents asked me if I wanted to learn guitar and I said ‘why not?’ It turned into the instrument I mainly play now.” In eighth grade, at Orlando Science Charter School, Q. Koroshetz met his friend, current sophomore FLVS student, Sehyr Ali. The two decided to perform at a school charity event which sparked their idea to form a band. “Sehyr told me all about her friends Doguhan [Karahan] and Trang [Nyugen]. Doguhan was a fantastic bassist and Trang was like, the best
guitarist I’ve ever met for someone my age,” Q. Koroshetz said. “Over the summer of 2014 we got together and decided we wanted to put together this band for real.” Although bonding and creating music came easily to them, thinking of a band name proved to be the most difficult obstacle for the teens. “We thought of a ton of names, and they were all like super goth and emo,” Q. Koroshetz said. “Some of them were like ‘New Beginnings,’ ‘No Vacancy,’ and ‘Nothing Left.’ Eventually we thought of ‘Down To The Wire’ and we all just loved it.” The band held two shows at Q. Koroshetz’s home in September and November and hope to host more. They are in the process of creating their first album. Though they only have one untitled song, it is leaning towards the genre they would like to be seen as. Q. Koroshetz describes it as a rock band who “breaks through the stereotypes.” “We’re trying to bust away any stereotype our genre has like a bunch of angry white men yelling,” Q. Koroshetz said. Down To The Wire is a female fronted, multicultural band. Ali is Pakistani, Karahan is Turkish and Nyuyen is Vietnamese. “[Down To The Wire] is a great group of kids,” J. Koroshetz said. “There’s just such a positive energy in each and every one of them, and Q really feeds off of that.” Down To The Wire has been inspired by bands like ‘Pvris,’ ‘Beartooth,’ and ‘Being as an Ocean.’ Their biggest goal is to play at Warped Tour and get signed. They plan on hosting their next house show in February or March.
St. Petersburg mayor bans Trump from city
St. Petersburg mayor, Rick Kriseman tweeted on Monday, Dec. 7, that he is banning photo/AMY BETH BENNETT/SUN SENTINEL/MCT Donald Trump from entering the city. Kriseman’s tweet received over 1,200 retweets in an hour. This tweet was in response to Trump’s statement that all Muslims should be banned for hatred of Americans. Trump has not released a statement in regards to Kriseman’s tweet.
Disney gives grant to house homeless families
Walt Disney World Resort provided a $500,000 grant to help house homeless families in Central Florida. This donation is one of the largest Disney has ever donated to the homeless. Central Florida Commission of Homelessness CEO Andrae Bailey called Disney’s donation significant not only because of the money, but because of who contributed the donation. When a company as big as Disney contributes to the community, it sends a message to other businesses.
national
photo/MICHAEL TERCHA/CHICAGO TRIBUNE/MCT
80 Boston College students sick from Chipotle
A norovirus sickened 80 Boston College students who ate at a local Chipotle. Norovirus’ can spread by a single restaurant worker or a single sick customer. These students all confirmed that they ate at the same Chipotle. The students originally feared that they had E coli and were relieved to find out that it was a norovirus. E coli is a deadly disease, where norovirus’ last a few days.
U.S. strike kills two terrorist leaders
On Monday Dec. 7, the Pentagon released a statement saying that a senior leader of the al-Qaeda-affiliated group Al-Shabaab and the senior leader of ISIS were both killed in recent military air strikes. al-Qaeda leader Abdirahman Sandhere and two of his associates were killed on Wednesday, Dec. 2.
Friday, December 18, 2015 boonepubs.com
hilights
sports
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These girls are like my family. We encourage [each other] on and off the court and always have each other’s back. Brittney Smith, sophomore
Angeni Worley:
Brittney Smith:
4’9” guard/forward, junior Standout game: Olympia 23 points Noteable stats: 118 points 30 field goal percentage
6’3” center/forward, sophomore Standout game: Heritage 17 points, 16 rebounds and 5 blocks Noteable stats: 96 points 48 field goal percentage
Amanda Oliver: 6’0” center/forward, senior Standout game: Freedom 17 points, 16 rebounds Noteable stats: 153 points 41 field goal percentage
Emily Colvin: 5’9” guard/forward, senior Standout game: Dr. Phillips 15 points and 11 rebounds Noteable stats: 51 points 34 field goal percentage
Sadie Desroches: 5’8” guard, senior Standout game: Freedom 9 points and 7 rebounds Noteable stats: 55 points 30 field goal percentage
*stats as of December 14
Girls dominate opponents The team has a close bond and above average statistics which leads to an improved record from previous years By MARISA MUHART To keep up their above national average statistics in points per game, rebounds per game, assists per game, blocks per game, and steals per game, the team prepares for games by reviewing films, player breakdowns and participating in focused practices. The team’s goal is to win the district, regional and state championships. “We are practicing hard to accomplish these goals. We aren’t underestimating anyone, but simply playing mentally tough and smart,” guard Sadie Desroches, senior, said. The first game of the season, the girls played the Dr. Phillips Panthers earning their first win, 43-33. The second game ended with a loss to Seminole, 50-35. “Losing to [the] Seminole kind of took a toll on me, knowing that we had an off night and that we are better than how we played. But if we see them later on the road to states, I know for sure we will succeed and come [away] with the win,” Desroches said. The girls won the next two games against Freedom, 56-31, and Cypress Creek, 45-19. 6’0” senior center/forward Amanda Oliver led the game against Freedom with 17 points and 16 rebounds. In the Cypress Creek game, sophomore guard/forward Cassady Quintana scored 10 points and Oliver added seven points and 10 rebounds. “Beating Cypress was a great win. Simply because last year we lost to them. It was questionable because there was no way we should’ve lost. Later, we beat them in the district championship. Beating them really felt great. We executed
well as a team,” Desroches said. The team lost the game against Lake Highland, 42-67. The game ended with 10 successful free throws, two 3-pointers, and 15 successful free throws. “It’s always a great feeling to know you’re winning. We recently won the Osceola Thanksgiving tournament, but we still have a long way to go and many competitive teams to encounter,” center/forward Brittney Smith, sophomore, said. In the Osceola Thanksgiving Tournament the girls basketball team beat Palm Bay Heritage, 59-32, with Smith leading with 17 points, 16 rebounds and five blocks. Senior guard/forward Emily Colvin added 13 points and 18 rebounds, while junior guard/forward Angeni Worley also added 10 points They won the semi-final game against Lake Nona, 33-19, with Worley tallying eight points and Oliver scoring seven points and 12 rebounds. They beat Winter Park in the championship game, 40-26. The game opened with eight quick points and a freethrow added a total of nine points. Oliver then took control of the game scoring fourteen points, thirteen rebounds and five steals. “It felt great getting that huge win against Winter Park and also bringing home the championship trophy to the reservation,” Worley said. Smith, the tournament MVP, Desroches and Oliver made the All Tournament team. Back in regular season play, the girls beat Lake Nona, 63-52; Oak Ridge, 49-27; and then Olympia, 52-41. The Olympia game was intense. With Olympia taking a four point lead on the Braves in the fourth quarter. The lady Braves pulled through to take the win. Worley had a season high with 23 points, leading the offense. Following, they defeated East River, 46-17, and
University, 44-1. The team had 28 rebounds, nine assists, 15 steals and eight blocked shots. One positive of a senior heavy team is the skill and experience these seniors have. “Four of the seniors started with me four years ago at the varsity level and this provides great team structure and court experience,” coach Jerry Williams said. The girls hope to beat Colonial and Winter Park who are some of their toughest competitors. They already beat Winter Park in the tournament and hope to do so again. The team will play Colonial on Jan. 5 and Winter Park on Jan. 14 In the midst of competition, the closeness of the girls basketball team is evident in their play. “This is a unit that most coaches would beg to have. These young ladies know how to pick each other up and hold their tongues if something goes wrong. We have a mature team and they understand that the only way to be successful is to work together. We will not be divided,” Williams said. The girls play Timber Creek tonight at 7:30 on the road.
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sports hilights
TEENS FOR JEANS
WHAT GOALS DOES THE TEAM HAVE FOR THIS SEASON?
The Freshmen Class is hosting a Teens for Jeans fundraiser for homeless teenagers in the United States. Students can drop off their gently-used jeans to their first period teachers from Jan. 4 until Jan. 15.
Our main goal is to win [the district game] because we haven’t won [it] in the past so we want to break the losing streak. Phillip Crowe, senior
Team fights for redemption #the411
Boys strive to improve weak previous season
Apopka:
By JULIA CONDES In the previous season, the boys soccer team had a 1-11-3 record, a major hurdle the team wants to improve. “Last year we had a pretty rough year, we had 10 new players on the varsity level, the season definitely didn’t go how we wanted it to go. So, improving upon that record and getting into [the] district final would be my first main goal for the team,” coach Brian Sherman said. Standing at 3-6-2, the boys are meeting their goal of a better record by striving to improve their performance on the field and to have a favorable position come playoff time. “This year we have seven seniors on the team and I also think we have a very strong nucleus behind those seniors,” Sherman said. Hoping to stimulate improvement, Sherman says he challenges the boys by making sure that they have a difficult game schedule for the season. “I made the schedule very tough on my guys so that at the end of the season when the games truly mattered they’d be ready for those games. We don’t have any easy games on our schedule that we can just sort of walk through,” Sherman said. One of the team’s difficulties has been communicating on the field, despite their close relationship off of it. Sherman has changed players positions to see how they work together and to try and generate improvements on the field. “Yeah, we’re friends, but we don’t really play with each other, so we have to get used to playing with each other and work harder to do what needs to be done,” midfielder Hunter Reddick, junior, said. The boys faced several tough losses early in the season. In their first match, Nov. 2, they lost to Dr. Phillips, 1-2. “[I was] very disappointed. They scored in the last few minutes. I guess we just fell asleep a little bit, we definitely should have won. They weren’t as good as everyone said they were and we played a lot better than they did,” forward and midfielder Matthew Barr, junior, said. Defensive mistakes are part of the team’s struggle on the field. According to Barr, once their opponent scores, the boys morale decreases, making it harder for them to continue the game with optimism. Yet, when they communicate and play well, they play really well. On Nov. 3, they crushed the Lake Highland Highlanders, 6-1. “When we beat them I felt really confident,” midfielder Emmanuel Ramirez, freshman, said. “It made me realize we had some great players on the team.” In their first home game, Nov. 30, the team tied Apopka, 1-1. Scoring the first goal early in the first half, the boys were confident in their ability to win. “I felt like we should have won that match,” Ramirez said. “We were playing way better, but I guess we just got overly confident.” The boys second win was against Colonial, Dec. 12. Crushing the Grenadiers, 7-1. The large victory margin increased the boys confidence in their abilities. “We were really prepared and fired up for the game,” Barr said. “We were ready to win after so many losses.” Sherman’s coaching philosophy reflects on the field. A term he says he uses is “kill the opponent with kindness.” “The reason why I say that is don’t get up yelling at anybody, don’t get up yelling at the referee. If you go up and say, ‘Hey, thank you,’ or ‘Hey, good play,’ whatever it is, the other guy is going to be like ‘What?’ You know, it’s going to throw them off, so kill them with kindness, that’s my best
Nov. 30, 1-1 Notable plays: Jonathan De Lucca made one goal; Luca Bertola had one assist
Oak Ridge: Dec. 1, 0-2 Notable plays: Corey Smith made a shot; Matthew Barr and Jonathan De Lucca made two shots
Freedom: Dec. 3, 1-1 Notable plays: Jonathan De Lucca scored one goal
Cypress Creek: Dec. 8, 1-4 Notable plays: Jonathan De Lucca scored one goal; Luca Bertola had one assist
Colonial: Dec. 10, 7-1 Notable plays: Phillip Crowe, Jonathan De Lucca and Hunter Strickland each scored a goal; Esteban Olguin and Hunter Reddick scored two goals each
Wekiva: Dec. 14, 4-2 Notable plays: Luca Bertola, Phillip Crowe, Esteban Olguin, and Jonathan De Lucca each made a goal
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JUMPMAN. In the game against the Apopka Blue Darters, sophomore Jonathan De Lucca works to keep the ball away from a Darter. “[Scoring a goal] felt good because I just got back from playing football and hadn’t played soccer in a while, so it felt good to score,” De Lucca said. He scored the only goal for Boone that night, tying with Apopka, 1-1. way to go about it,” Sherman said. After a game, particularly a loss, senior Nicolas Gonzalez and Reddick, captains, send the team encouraging messages. This helps the boys stay motivated for the next game. “The captains really encourage us,” Barr said. “It helps me keep my head up and not get down because of mistakes.” Already beating their record from the previous season, the team looks forward to every game. Each loss has helped them learn how to communicate and play as a team. “No matter what, we always turn [a mistake] into a positive,” Sherman said. “It’s always a building block moving forward into the next game.” The boys play Bishop Moore at home Jan. 4, 6:30 p.m.
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sports hilights WHAT IS YOUR TEAM’S BIGGEST WEAKNESS?
SNOWFLAKE COURT VOTING At halftime of the boys basketball game on Jan. 29, the Senior Class will crown a prince an princess. Vote for the Snowflake Court prince and princess Jan. 20-22.
Our biggest weakness is being so young. It’s very competitive, and it is really intimidating for our freshman to be playing seniors. It’s good because they will be able to grow as players. Sarah Aikens, junior
HIGH JUMP. Before the Olympia game, C. Bagozzi, O. Easterling, E. Herb, A. Tamvakis, L. Jackson, J. Gentry-Mickelson, S. Lopez, O. Page, M. Pirino and K. Dingman all high-five each other to get pumped up and ready for the game. “We all are really close,” Easterling said. “We all know that we are really weird and can joke around, but can also be serious when it comes to game time.” The girls won, 3-0.
photo/MADALYN BENTON
Players demonstrate potential Girls soccer use new players to their advantage By BRIDGET HARTIG With more freshmen than seniors and only seven returning players, the girls soccer team has found a way to work well with all the new players and have a winning season. Seven of the 20 team members are freshmen. Four of the new additions include Cynthia Bagozzi, Olivia Easterling, Sarah O’Mahony and Elizabeth Herb. These four girls became starters by excelling at their practices and showing their skills during games. “I look for skill, speed, passion, knowledge of the game, and the desire they have to continue to learn and develop into better players,” coach Kimberly Smith said. “The team is new and young so it has been a challenge for everyone to learn how to play together. Team chemistry is a process and it takes time to mature so that the team learns each other’s style of playing individually and learn how to play as one united group.” In the beginning of the season, the girls were not functioning as a team. They did not understand how to work with each other and use everyone’s talents to their advantage, yet. Their only losses, so far, were within the first five games of the season. “Usually it takes a few games and practices for teams to get to know each other and how each individual plays,” junior Jewell GentryMickelson said. “I would say we are still learning that about each other and we have definitely gotten better and better with teamwork and communication throughout the season so far. We came together really quickly.” The team has focused on bonding to help bring them together and help with on-field relationships. They bond through hanging out after practices, talking on long bus rides to away games, team breakfasts, sleepovers and constantly texting in their group chat. “My largest [challenge] this year was getting used to the different people on my team and everyone’s playing style,” Bagozzi said. “Our biggest accomplishment is working so well together as a young and new team. We are very close now and I love playing with everyone. They’re like my sisters.” In their rivalry game against Winter Park on Nov. 9, they lost 2-6. Bagozzi scored both goals, but the team ultimately fell short. According to Gentry-Mickelson, it was because of miscommunication on the field. “It was pretty tough when we lost to them,” Gentry-Mickelson said. “It was one of our early games so we were not a whole as a team yet, and we are still working on [teamwork] to get better.” Winter Park has been a rival since Boone started a girl’s team in 1992. Though not as popular as the rivalry with Edgewater, it is still a strong tradition both schools have. “Our hardest game was Winter Park, they are our biggest rival,” junior Olivia Page said. “It was hard because they didn’t lose any seniors, when we lost most of ours last year. It was an early game, so we hadn’t gotten in our groove yet.” When playing Timber Creek, last year’s district champion, on Nov.
ßquestionanswer Sorymer Lopez, senior What do you think your team’s biggest accomplishment is? I think it’s the fact we are a mostlyfreshman based. For being a new team, we are really awesome. What is your personal goal for the rest of the season? My personal goal is to improve all my flaws throughout all the rest of the games. I want to encourage others, win even more games and have fun.
photo/BRIDGET HARTIG
JUST KICKING IT. In the Nov. 9 game against Winter Park, senior Kathryn Dingman fights for the ball. “My personal goal is to make the most of my last season of soccer by having fun and pushing my team to get better,” Dingman said. The girls lost against Winter Park, 2-6. 9, the girls were able to work in sync to come out with a close win, 2-1. “They are really tough competitors,” Gentry-Mickelson said. “They have strong, fast players that can control the ball really well. We played a tough game against them and won. We were supposed to lose, but we didn’t. It was a nice surprise.” On Dec. 2, the Lady Braves mercy ruled Oak Ridge in the second half, ending 8-0. Sophomores Catherine Demer and Jazmin Adlam; freshman Easterling, Bagozzi and Megan Sterns; and juniors Page and Gentry-Mickelson all scored goals. “Of course whenever you mercy rule someone, it validates you are good players and you have a good team,” Page said. “It gave us some reassurance that we could still compete and we could still beat some of the best teams we have played.” Boone will host the district competition on Jan. 11, 13 and 15. They will play in the semifinal competition in hopes of making it to the quarterfinal and final competition. The girls season record stands at 8-3-1 with games against Lake Howell, The First Academy and Lake Nona in early January. The girl’s next game is away against Lake Howell on Jan. 4 at 6 p.m.
What is your team’s biggest weakness? I don’t think we have a weakness. I think we only make a few errors in games or in practice. Overall, I don’t think we have a weakness other than the beginning of the season when we had basically a fully new team. We work very hard. Describe your relationship with your team. I think we all like to joke around and have fun. As a captain, I really like being a role model and inspire people to be the best they can be and inspire [them] to work harder. How do you think you will do at the district competition? My team won’t stop at anything until the end of districts. Being a new team has taught us so much. The team we started with is completely new now. Having a newer team will help because we have had to work twice as hard and I know we can compete with the best schools in Orlando.
Friday, December 18, 2015 boonepubs.com
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From NUDES to NEWS
By JESSIE JALCA Since its risky path to success, Snapchat overcame its stereotype. Check out how it shifted from identifying as a sexting tool to an application for everyone.
APRIL 2011. Stanford University junior Reggie Brown wishes the photos he sends to a girl could disappear. Fellow junior Evan Spiegel immediately jumps on the thought, calling it a “million dollar idea.”
There are
JULY 2011. Originally called Pictaboo, Spiegel launches the application from his father’s living room. Pictaboo allows users to send photos to friends, giving the receiver 10 seconds to view the photo before it disappears.
An average of 8.796 photos are shared on Snapchat every second.
100 million daily active users on Snapchat.
SEPTEMBER 2011. “Pictaboo” becomes “Snapchat” and gains traction. Eventually, despite the fact that the company never intends use of the application to take a dark turn, people soon find comfort in the thought that photos would not last and begin using it to send inappropriate pictures. Nevertheless, users realize they can take screenshots in the short timespan. MAY 2012. New York Times journalist Nick Bilton identifies Snapchat as a sexting application.
OCTOBER 2012. Snapchat launches on Android.
There are
FEBRUARY 2013. The application adds the option of video sharing. New York Times article “A Growing App Let’s You See It, Then You Don’t” by journalist Jenna Wortham interviews Snapchat founders Spiegel and Murphy, who attest to how uses other than sexting has increased the application’s popularity.
daily views on Snapchat.
6 billion
DECEMBER 2013. Snapchat adds six filters, timestamps, temperature, speed overlays and the option to replay one snap a day.
source: Digital Marketing Resources
FEBRUARY 2014. Anonymous hackers leak over 4.6 million Snapchat usernames and phone numbers, which wavers the application’s growth. MAY 2014. Snapchat adds text conversations and live video chat. Snapchat’s Our Story launches. University of California, Los Angeles students testify to the other more popular uses for Snapchat besides sexting.
What do students mostly use Snapchat for? 24% take selfies
2% take pictures of food
47% take ugly selfies
27% take funny pictures
JULY 2014. Snapchat introduces geotags. Snapchat is now worth $10 billion and American Internet analytics company ComScore considers it the third most popular social media application. NOVEMBER 2014. The company makes a deal with Square Cash, allowing its users to send and receive money from friends. Snapchat calls this new feature “Snapcash.”
source: 117 students polled, Dec. 9 JANUARY 2015. Snapchat launches Discover, a daily feed with content from National Geographic, Vice, Yahoo News, People Magazine, Daily Mail, Comedy Central, Cosmopolitan, CNN, Food Network, ESPN and others. FEBRUARY 2015. The company collaborates with ConnectSafely, iKeepSafe and Safer Internet Center to introduce Snapchat Safety Center to discourage teenagers from sexting and to provide practical tips for users to stay safe while using Snapchat. NOVEMBER 2015. Snapchat releases emojis, stickers and a premium Snapchat Lens Store for more fun and creative pictures.
ßyourthoughts
What do you enjoy most about Snapchat?
I like being able to send ugly pictures of myself without being judged. Shayna Eaton, freshman
ßpuzzleanswers Word Scramble 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.
BAND STRESS BATHROOM STUDY TUITION
[I like] the filters because it shows [my] location. Carver Reeves, sophomore
Snapstreaks because if they weren’t there I wouldn’t really care to Snapchat people. Jeremiah Benjamin, junior
I really like the fact that you can send snippets of your life to others. Karina Quiñones, senior
Time is r un n i n g o ut SCHOOL DAYS ONLY LEFTTO COP YOUR 2016
5
LEGEND YEARBOOK $80 on schoolpay.com or in Room 224
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SAT
WHAT DO YOU FIND MOST ENJOYABLE ABOUT TARTINI?
Jan. 23 is the last day to take the SAT before the new test is administered. The registration deadline is Dec. 28, but one can register online by Jan. 12 for a late fee.
The pizza because it tastes better than a lot of other pizza places, maybe it’s because they use a brick oven. Pryce Madry, junior
toptweets
Tartini needs improvements Local Italian restaurant is a letdown By JULIA CONDES From the outside, Tartini Pizzeria & Spaghetteria, an Italian restaurant with an authentic menu located on South Orange Avenue, has a contemporary and inviting look. Inside, however, is not as appealing as it initially appeared. With prices that surpass the food’s quality and the level of service not exactly up to par, the predominant feeling upon leaving Tartini’s was unsatisfied. For Tartini’s to be a viable restaurant they need to consider making changes. For starters, the hostess’ stand and menus sat unattended. Because a hostess was not present, it forced our party, who had a reservation, to find a table large enough for the group. Other diners had similar experiences. They walked in, waited for a greeter and when no one arrived, they sat themselves. Restaurant guests like to feel welcomed and appreciated. Without a hostess Tartini’s misses this opportunity. Another area for the restaurant to consider changing is the smoking policy on the patio while having windows opened. The opened windows at the restaurant allowed in the cool evening air, which proved pleasant, but as someone sat at one of the few outside tables and began to smoke, the foul cigarette smell polluted the air quality inside as well. Although not the fault of the staff, the occurrence was distasteful and detracted from the overall atmosphere of the restaurant. Eating out, typically a time to spend with friends and family to enjoy a good meal, ought not mean having to breathe in the cigarette filled air from another customer. Regretfully, the smoke was not the only displeasing aspect of Tartini. The poorly executed dishes also did. The Involtini ($14), a pasta dish with breaded eggplant, consisted of a displeasing texture and an average sauce. The eggplant felt too chewy, which typically suggests an undercooked eggplant. The sauce did not complement the eggplant; it lacked flavor on its own, as if no herbs or spices were used. In the Bolognese ($12), the meat
ßpuzzlecorner Tic Tac Toe
NICE PRESENTATION. The Caprese ($7), a salad with tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, basil and a balsamic and olive oil vinaigrette, could use herb seasoning. PERFECTLY FIRED. The Margherita Pizza ($13) appeased guests with a nice blend of cheese, tomatoes and basil. The brick fired oven cooks the pizza to the perfect crispness. photos/CARLY MEYER
unpleasantly overpowered the pasta. There was too much meat in the dish to be enjoyable as it suffocated any other flavors the dish may have had. The Marsala ($16), another entrée, included only one medium sized piece of chicken- about the size of a playing card- and contained an unlikable, mostly bland sauce. Like with other dishes, the marsala suffered an absence of herbs or spices. None of the meal’s facets really worked together to create a successful dish. Sadly, this demonstrated the case for multiple entrée and pasta options on the menu. Fortunately, there was not a long wait for food, except for a forgotten dish. A runner delivered the meals to the table, but the Involtini remained missing. Typically, a waitress would arrive at the table to see how everything fared, but no one came to check on the party. This required a guest to search for the inattentive waitress. The Involtini appeared a few moments later, but the waitress’ lack of attention and concern proved problematic. Despite the inferiority of the entrées, the menu contained highlights. The Margherita Pizza ($13) made a tasteful meal with a texturally pleasing
balance of cheese, sauce and basil. Brick fired and simplistically styled, the pizza presented a filling and aromatic course. In addition to the pizza, the appetizers included some of the best items on the menu. The calamari fritti ($11) creates a refreshing balance of savor and crunch, as do the mozzarella sticks ($8). The Italian rice balls ($8), presented a palatable, yet sloppy structure. The rice was cooked properly, not underdone, nor too firm. The food itself consisted of a sublime mixture of herbs such as garlic, basil and oregano. In spite of Tartini’s underwhelming entrées and service quality, highlights to the restaurant exist. The modern and clean ambience of Tartini is, for the most part, agreeable and welcoming. Lighting and seating, the most commendable features of the restaurant, lend a soft, warm glow emitted from the interior. As a whole though, admirable surroundings should not make the restaurant, they should only compliment an already appealing menu and quality wait staff. Unfortunately, the experience lacked enough quality to make it a great local hangout or to recommend it to others.
#the411 Where: 6327 S. Orange Ave.
When: MondaySaturday 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., Sunday 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.
How much: $4 to $18
Extras: Detailed menus with a large variety of dishes. Carries Coke products, and an assortment of teas. Contemporary and welcoming atmosphere.
See if you can solve these puzzles Word Scramble: unscramble these words 1. NDBA 2. SRESTS 3. ORHTABMO 4. YDTSU 5. NIUTIOT
[ ANSWERS, page 15