Luke Stone Portfolio 2016 by Jessica Samons

The Soon-To-Be Valuable Works of

Luke Stone Co-Editor-In-Chief

Luke Stone

413 Oyster Road, North Palm Beach, FL, 33408 | 561-568-5276 | lws0925@gmail.com October 13, 2015 Gerard Baker Editor-In-Chief The Wall Street Journal 1211 Avenue of the Americas New York, New York, 10036

Dear Mr. Baker, For decades upon decades, the Wall Street Journal has been one of the only publications in the United States that in this age of biased news has remained unchanged. The publication’s desire to report the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth is astonishing and second to none. I appreciate the way you report news at your company and would like to apply for an internship this summer in order to further advance in my journalistic studies and practices. As the current Co-Editor-In-Chief of Bak Middle School of The Arts’ The Portfolio, an award winning newspaper, I have been able to master writing summary style news articles, feature style articles, sports articles, and opinion pieces. Over the course of writing these articles, I have had to interview sources, including the superintendent of our school system, Dr. Robert Avossa. Throughout these experiences, I have gained knowledge in staff management, factual reporting, finding and summarizing extensive research. I feel as if these experiences make me qualified to receive an internship from your company so I can advance my studies and learn from the single greatest publication in America today. I appreciate you taking the time to read this letter. While I feel as if my actions speak for themselves, I would feel more comfortable with having an interview with you or one of your subordinates so I can directly tell you about my experiences and skills I have developed over the past few years. Attached is my resume summarizing my career in journalism, highlighting my grades, management skills, experiences, and references from teachers I had in the past. If there is anything else you would like to know about me, please feel free to call, text, or email me at the contact information above, or contact one of my references with my resume. Sincerely,

Luke Stone

Co-Editor-In-Chief

‍‍Luke Stone 413 Oyster Road, North Palm Beach, FL, 33408 | 561-568-5276 | lws0925@gmail.com

I got started in journalism in sixth grade when I took Ms. Samons’ journalism class. Ever since, I have fallen in love with journalism and developed a passion for finding, speaking, and printing the truth. From being on the staff the past two years, I have learned so much about teamwork, leadership, commitment, and working on the clock.

Objective · To obtain a position at your publication as an intern while advancing my studies in journalism

One of the most important skills I was able to develop was teamwork and teambuilding schools. I came onto the staff of The Portfolio as a very independent worker. But, because producing this publication requires so much collaboration, I learned how important teamwork is to success in this industry, and I learned how important it was to have good relationships with your staff members to make teamwork easier.

Education COMMUNICATIONS | 2016 | BAK MSOA · 2014 Final GPA: 3.857 (1 B in Gifted World History during year’s first quarter) · 2015 Final GPA: 3.857 (1 B in Algebra I Honors during year’s first quarter) · 2016 Final GPA: On track for 4.0 GPA Skills & Abilities

I also gained valuable leadership skills from being editor-in-chief. I learned about how important (in a co-editors-in-chief system) it is to have the good cop, bad cop situation. I personally feel like the balance between Maddy and I was perfect. I was able to provide the strict discipline, she was able to be the kinder, more forgiving editor-in-chief.

MANAGEMENT · Co-Editor-In-Chief of Bak MSOA’s The Portfolio during the 2015-2016 school year

LEADERSHIP · Co-Editor-In-Chief of Bak MSOA’s The Portfolio during the 2015-2016 school year

From my experience on the staff, I was able to learn about commitment and dedication. This class was the first time in my life as a student that success was all about the extra effort—staying during lunch, coming in during study halls. Being on this staff taught me about how much an extra effort mattered when producing a publication like this.

RELEVANT STUDIES Intro to Journalism, Intro to Video Production, Intro to Radio, Journalism II (School Newspaper), Speech & Debate, Electronic News Gathering, Marketing and Advertising

Resume

CO-EDITOR-IN-CHIEF | BAK MSOA [THE PORTFOLIO] | 2015-2016 · Responsible for leading, managing staff of 11 other students · Responsible for writing articles of all sorts · Responsible for editorial page layout · Responsible for getting story ideas from district’s superintendent and from school administration SPORTS EDITOR | BAK MSOA [THE PORTFOLIO] | 2014-2015 · Responsible for creating Sports & Clubs layout · Responsible for receiving story ideas from school’s athletic department · Responsible for writing stories, particularly summaries of the school’s sports team

REFERENCES Jessica Samons, Journalism Adviser, Bak MSOA, jessica.samons@palmbeachschools.org

Analytical Essay

Experience

Because of this class, I was given my first exposure to working on a deadline. Because I was always on the clock, I had to learn to become a better time manager and a harder worker in order to get things finished on time. Working on a deadline also taught me about how to prioritize tasks and realize that some assignments take precedence over others. This course was extremely valuable to take because it taught me leadership skills, time management skills, teambuilding skills, work ethic skills, and writing skills and tactics that I can use later in life in most any job. Because I want to go into law and hopefully politics for a career, being a sophisticated writer will help me be able to be a more effective lawyer and campaign worker.

Luke Stone

Luke Stone Co-Editor-In-Chief

Reflection #1-Best Work-Final Draft

Reflection #1-Best Work-First Draft

Co-Editor-In-Chief

Reflection #1 I think that my most significant piece of work for The Portfolio this year was my profile on Palm Beach County Schools Superintendent Robert Avossa. I think that it was the most significant of my work because the article required me interviewing two of the highest up, hardest to reach sources in the district, Dr. Avossa himself and (now former) school board member Mike Murgio. I wrote this article because I felt that it was of great importance that the school get the chance to meet our new superintendent, and I wanted more experience with interviewing higher level sources and with writing news stories, considering that my focus was more on sports articles last year. The most challenging part of writing this story was interviewing both Mr. Murgio and Dr. Avossa before the deadline. Even though issue #1 was a relatively long deadline, being the first issue and all, emailing AND getting responses from two of the districtâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s highest sources was a challenge. But, that challenge led into something that I really like about the piece. I love that all of the effort and time that I put into the article was clearly exemplified through my quotes and background research on the hiring of Dr. Avossa. I also like that the article flows and reads very well.

Luke Stone

Luke Stone Co-Editor-In-Chief

Reflection #2-Most Subpar Work- Final Draft

Reflection #2-Most Subpar Work-First Draft

Co-Editor-In-Chief

Reflection #2 I think that the piece that could use the most work would be my editorial in issue two on arts appreciation. It did contain a lot of valid arguments, but most of them were based on the staffâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s personal experience, or the experience of 20 students that I surveyed, and in a school of approximately 1350 kids, surveying about 1.4% of the student population calculates a pretty hefty margin of error. This piece could be improved if I had surveyed a higher number of students so then my arguments could be stronger with more accurate facts and statistics. I learned that when you are doing an opinion piece involving student surveys, it will require a significant time commitment to survey your subjects, record the data, calculate your data, and then on top of that, writing the entire article. Looking back at this piece, I feel as if it was the most lackluster editorial I wrote all year because of the shaky calculations and the fact that the arguments I made were largely based on assumption and highly inaccurate information.

Luke Stone

Co-Editor-In-Chief

I am proud of this photo because of its composition, contents, and framing. First of all, the photo has a very good center of visual interest that contains all contents of a good sports action photo, as the ball, the basket, and the players fully in the photo. Second, it has strong framing as the basket provides a sort of leading line toward the ball and the players.

I like this photo because it was of a famous landmark, the White House, and because the fence provides some sort of leading lines toward the photos. I also like the depth of field because there is a clear foreground with the road, a middle ground with the north lawn, and a background of the White House. Photo saved as: whitehouse_stone.jpg

Reflection #3-Best Photos

Photo saved as: boysbball 3.jpg

I like this photo because it has a very good depth of field and has a cool effect with the artistically blurry background with the box. I also like the photo because the layout of the doughnuts also adds an interesting artistic effect that enhances the photo. I am attracted to this photo because it has a very dominant subject in the middle that draws in the eye. Photo saved as: donut.jpg

Luke Stone Co-Editor-In-Chief

Reflections #4,#5,& #6

Reflection #4 Unlike last year where I was more an asset to myself and the sports page rather than the entire staff, this year I feel like I was on the ball with being a valuable piece of the staff. First, I feel as if I was there to help out the other staffers this year more than I was last year. While that may be largely attributed to the fact that helping others is in my job description, I also think that my two years of experience with InDesign and God-given writing talent made me more of a help to others than I was last year. Last year I focused a lot on myself and meeting my deadlines, but being editor-in-chief this year really force me to take more of a “we not me” attitude towards this class. I also feel that my commitment to the staff made me more of an asset this year. I was always willing to come in during lunch, study hall, and other electives in order to make sure that everyone was meeting their deadlines, not just myself. Reflection #5 One of the hardships that I faced this year was with my willingness to help other staffers with their work while remaining focused on my own work at the same time. In the interest of transparency, I have no problem saying that just, by nature, I am a selfish person, I always put myself before others instead of others before myself. And because I was EIC this year, I had to be willing to think of others, who might be struggling, and their work before I thought of my own. While each of us may have our own grade, our own box, our own layouts, and our own articles, being on this publication is anything but individual. At the end of the day, each of our pages gets put into a publication with everyone’s work. It is about all of our work together, not my pieces, by themselves. At the beginning of the year, I always put my own work ahead of the entire staff’s, and I had to learn to be more helpful so that everyone’s work could be of high quality, not just the work of a few staff members. Luckily, I was able to wake up and realize that I was being selfish and then I became more willing to help others and I feel as if I was able to do my job as EIC much more effectively. From this entire situation, I learned that life isn’t always about me. Every little decision I make and every turn I make in the path of life always has a ripple effect that affects others. I feel proud with how I handle the situation and I feel as if it made me a better person in general, because now I feel less selfish and act less selfish than I used to. Reflection #6 I consistently had difficulty in the ad sales category and in the spending time out of class category. I never really put any effort into selling ads, and I never did enough to put myself outside of my comfort zone and approach people to buy an ad in our newspaper. I wish that I had put more effort into selling ads because it would have made expanding to a sixteen page issue easier. Another area I had trouble with was spending time outside of class. While I did conduct some interviews towards the beginning of the year, I never found myself doing enough interviews or taking enough photos. But, toward the end of this year, I got more comfortable in interviews and was able to interview sources who I may not have had previous interaction with.

Luke Stone Co-Editor-In-Chief

Articles Issue1

Luke Stone

Co-Editor-In-Chief The

Check out page 6 for a review on Palm Beach County’s best smoothies.

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News...........................................1 & 4 Editorial.....................................2 Opinion.................................3 Entertainment..........................6 & 7 Features.........................................8 & 9 Sports and Clubs.................10 & 11 Technology...............................12 & 13 Arts and Academics..............14 & 15 StudentLife......................16

Transportation Disaster

Shortage of drivers, poorly designed routes cause delays across county

he warning bell rings over a sparsely populated courtyard as students around the county wait anxiously for their buses to arrive in the midst of a transportation debacle. The Portfolio staff, having experienced these problems through the first several weeks, felt that the Palm Beach County School District’s [PBCSD] Transportation Department should have been better prepared for the start of school. According the PBCSD’s Department of Communications, only 60 percent of buses got students to school on time, a number that has increased to 86 percent as of Sept. 11, 2015. Although it was a major improvement from the first week, in a county with approximately 60 thousand students riding the bus, about nine students were still arriving late to schools across the county each day. In fact, the problems were so severe during the first several weeks, new superintendent Dr. Robert Avossa hired an independent investigator to find out where it all went wrong. Additionally, the school district had three months over the summer to solve any transportation route issues, but routes were still being changed

www.PortfolioNews.org

October 2015 * Volume 18 * Issue 1 * Bak Middle School of the Arts * 1725 Echo Lake Drive * West Palm Beach, Florida 33407

‘Janitors’ author Tyler Whitesides visits Bak

Articles-Issue 1-New Superintendent

Photo by Jessica Samons

Tyler Whitesides shows three sixth graders how to battle Rubbish, Filths and Grimes, the creatures responsible for causing chaos in his debut series, “Janitors”. Using a mere dustpan, the students learned how to protect their school and become “apprentice janitors.”

By Nikita Tanguturi Business Manager ith all the students cheering like a celebrity had just walked in the theater,

bestselling series Janitor’s author Tyler Whitesides started off the 2015/2016 school year with a performance for all the sixth graders. “It was quite interesting,” Angela

Philstein, sixth grade dance major, said, “I love how he incorporated [his band] Jammin’ Janitors with his presentation” A janitor himself, Whitesides graduated from Utah State University

School district officials address transportation problems By Angela Yan News Editor tarting on Aug. 17, the ﬁrst day of school for Palm Beach County students, issues involving school bus routes and late buses occurred district-wide. This incident lasted for the entire ﬁrst month and a half of school. “It is not uncommon to have some

complications at the beginning of the school year, but the level of problems we have had with transportation is unacceptable,” Robert Avossa, new superintendent of the Palm Beach County School District said in an interview with School Bus Fleet. The school district implemented a new routing system before the 201516 school year, which left little time for

bus drivers to practice their routes. “I will not tolerate this type of rollout in any way, shape or form,” Avossa said in an interview with Sun Sentinel. “We oversimplified, we over-promised, and we under-delivered.” According to the Office of Communications, buses delivered 60 percent of students on time on the first day of school. By Sept. 18, the number

rose to 8 percent of students delivered on time. “It’s a typical thing for the ﬁrst week or two,” Cynthia Chiapetta, principal of Eagles Landing Middle School, said in an interview with Sun Sentinel. On the ﬁrst day of school, some buses arrived at Bak so late that zero

Transportation Problems Continued on page 4

Palm Beach County selects Robert Avossa superintendent after extended two month search By Luke Stone Co-Editor-In-Chief fter a long search of more than two months, the Palm Beach County School Board selected Dr. Robert Avossa to be the new superintendent of the Palm Beach County School District. “Dr. Avossa has a very strong track record of improving a large school district in Fulton County, Georgia. During his tenure as superintendent, graduation rates rose and drop-out rates fell,” Michael Murgio, Palm Beach

County School Board member said. According to Avossa’s application, during his time as superintendent in Fulton County, the graduation rate rose from 70.1 percent to 78.7 percent and the dropout rate decreased from 24.3 percent to 11.9 percent. “We believe that Dr. Avossa has the knowledge, skills, and personal qualities that will take our district from being the top urban school district in Florida to one of the top school districts in the Nation,” Murgio said. Avossa was selected from a ﬁeld of

hundreds of candidates for the job in July of this year. “[I took the job because] I have dedicated my entire career to public education and it is my passion. I am truly a teacher at heart. As superintendent of Palm Beach County, I can continue that mission and be close to my parents and family who live in Central Florida,” Avossa said. One of Avossa’s goals as he continues as superintendent was to give all students the chance to do well in life. “I believe it is the responsibility of

every employee at every level to ensure all students graduate from our district,” Avossa said. Murgio said that the way Avossa responded during his interviews for the position set him apart from the other candidates. Murgio said, “During the public interview process, he [Avossa] was able to clearly and succinctly answer questions posed to him. By comparison, all of the other candidates’ answers were acceptable, but Dr. Avossa’s were brilliant.”

Articles-Issue 1-Transportation Editorial

Whitesides: ‘When I see you guys.... it motivates me to write even more.’ with a degree in music, but started writing the Janitors series using a little of both experience and creativity. “I started writing about ﬁve years ago, and whenever I see you guys [students] really excited, it motivates me to write even more,” Whitesides said. He performed a poetry interpretation of Shel Silversteins Sarah Cynthia Sylvia Stout Would Not Take the Garbage Out. Using some of TV’s favorite voices, like Yoda, Darth Vader, Jack Sparrow, Gollum, and of course, Kermit, Whitesides aimed to please both students and teachers. “I really liked the trash can drums. The kids really enjoyed it, and I liked how he incorporated music, as we are a school of the arts,” Lourdes Alonso, sixth grade language arts teacher said. “I also love Shel Silverstein’s poetry.” Whitesides paired his novel Janitors with a special performance of some of his musical work. He was part of a band known as “The Jammin’ Janitors,” who used ordinary things like trash cans, into drums and empty cans into cymbals. The Janitors series concluded with “Heroes of the Dustbin”, making it a ﬁve book series. At the end of the show, Whitesides had a few words of wisdom to all the parting students. “Remember,” Whitesides said, “ordinary can be extraordinary.”

Editorial

The Portfolio October 2015

throughout the county to make bus routes more efficient. Also, the district experienced a shortage of bus drivers, with several dozen not showing op to work on the first day of school. Because of this, the district had to put some bus compound mechanics behind the wheel for some routes. The district also tried to make it easier for parents to see any issues with their child’s bus routes by creating a new online bus tracking system. However, during the first week, the system crashed because of heavy web traffic. On top of the delays, some buses also experienced overcrowding. For example, the amount of students on bus route N-007 forced some students to sit four people to a seat before the district put some of the stops on another less crowded bus route. The transportation issues affected most students because some students may not have had the opportunity to meet their first hour teachers on the first day of school and possibly several days after that. Along with students, teachers were affected because they may have had to reteach lessons for students who were

Cartoon by Angela Yan

consistently late to class, therefore holding other students up. Lastly, working parents were affected because they may have had to drive their child to school as a result of buses not arriving on time.

Murmurs from the Crowd ‘How did transportation issues at the start of this year affect you?’

“

The Portfolio Staff:

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Co-Editors-in-Chief Luke Stone Madaleine Rubin Photo Editors Lily Gumbinner Ashley Kulberg Copy Editor Jacob Schlessel Business Manager Nikita Tanguturi

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Section Editors: News Angela Yan Arts & Academics Valentina Gomez Features Carlos Trivino

Website Editor Jordan Taylor

Adviser Jessica Samons Entertainment Anushka Lakum

”

Sports & Clubs Sreenidhi Nidamanur Technology Ervin Williams

“

“My bus was always showing up late and I was constantly missing lessons during my ﬁrst or second period classes,” Aditya Jadvani, eighth grade communications major said.

“My bus was consistently being thirty minutes or an hour late and I was not able to hear my teachers go over important stuff we need to know for the rest of the school year,” Blake Weis, eighth grade visual major said.

“At one point, the district was going switch my bus stop to three miles away from my house until some parents complained about that being way too far to walk,” Cy Wagner, eighth grade communications major said.

For the next school year, the school district should have transportation better prepared for the start of school by having drivers practice the routes and report anything they think might make the route more efﬁcient.

”

The Portfolio Policy Statement Published six times a year, the student newspaper of Bak Middle School of the Arts is a public forum, with its student editorial board making all decision concerning its content and unsigned editorials. Letters to the editor are welcomed and will be published as space allows. Letters may be signed, although the staff may withhold names on request. The editor reserves the right to edit letters for grammar and clarity, and all letters are subject to laws governing obscene, libel, privacy and disruption of the school process as all are contents. Opinions in the letter are not necessarily those of the staff nor should any opinion expressed in a forum be construed as the opinion or policy of the administration unless so attributed. Six issues published by Sun Coast Press Members of the NSPA/JEA Bak Middle School of the Arts 1725 Echo Lake Drive West Palm Beach, Florida 33407 (561) 882-3870 *Fax (561) 882-3879

Luke Stone Co-Editor-In-Chief

The Portfolio Sports & Clubs Page 10 October 2015 Girls’ softball 3-2 in first few games of season By Sreenidhi Nidamanur Sports Editor ak Stars girls’ softball team won their first game of the season on Sept. 11 against Howell Watkins, 15-0. “My goals are to have a successful season and to make sure the girls develop and get better,” Lauren Goepfert, softball coach, said. All of the softball players had different reasons as to why they were playing and part of the team. Some people had been playing since they were little, some just for fun, and some for future professional careers. “I’ve been playing for eight years and it’s my favorite sport,” Erica Ellison, seventh grade visual major said. “I started playing softball because it seemed fun and I wanted to try something besides dancing,” Skylar Nesse, seventh grade, pitcher said. Good players have certain characteristics to make them succeed in their game. “I want to work hard, and have good sportsmanship,” Nesse said. “A good player knows all the mechanics, footwork, and how to keep their eye on the ball,” Ellison said. Goepfert made sure the girls were on track and focused. She encouraged them to play their best and made them work hard, so they became better and more developed players. “I had a good coach while growing up and I want to inspire them just like she inspired me,” Goepfert said.

“Characteristics of a good coach is having dedication and a sense of humor.” “She’s really nice to all the new players. She’s a great coach to have if you don’t know the basics,” Ellison said. As with every season, the girls’ must face tough opponents. In an early game in the season against Jupiter Middle, the girls suffered a tough loss, 10-0. “Every year its’ different but Independence and Jupiter Middle Schools have good programs,” Goepfert said. Another tough match against Duncan left the girls with another loss of 15-0. “I hope to strike out all the good people and beat Independence, Duncan, and Jupiter,” Ellison said. “We should beat a few more teams because we have the coaches teaching us with the correct movement and technique to win.” The team cheered for their teammates and encouraged them during the game. “My teammates are really supportive and they cheer me on,” Nesse said. Despite the losses, the girls successfully defeated JFK with a score of 22-4. “You need to have commitment. You always need to practice to get better,” Goepfert said. Some teachers loved to come out and watch the game, but a few stayed for the whole match. “I think more people should come to watch the game and I think people should know how much time and effort the girls put into softball,” Goepfert

Photo by Sreenidhi Nidamanur

Confidence surged through her veins as Erica Ellison, pitcher, got ready to throw the ball. “I hope some high schools can see me and how I pitch,” Ellison said. The girls defeated Howell Watkins 15-0.

said. Other eighth grade teachers encourage Goepfert to coach sports. “I love watching her in her full potential,” Amanda Gordon, eighth grade English teacher said. The season is 2-2 because the

Bak Stars beat Howell Watkins and JFK, yet they lost to Duncan and Jupiter. Ellison said, “It’s a fun sport and a fun way to be active. You don’t need to know how to play because we have good coaches behind our backs.”

Articles-Issue 1- NFL Season

First Sunday of the NFL season brings surprises, controversy

San Francisco’s 49ers’ Carlos Hyde (28) dives into the end zone for a touchdown with San Francisco 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick (7) helping block against the Minnesota Vikings during the second quarter on Monday, Sept. 14, 2015, at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, Calif. (Nhat V. Meyer/Bay Area News Group/TNS)

By Luke Stone Co-Editor-In-Chief t was a cool summer night on Sept. 10, 2015 at Gillette Stadium in Foxboro, Massachusetts. Fans of both the New England Patriots and the Pittsburgh Steelers waited anxiously for 8:30 p.m. to arrive. As Patriots kicker Stephen Gostkowski sent the ball into the air, the NFL season was officially under way. Through four weeks of the season, only six of the league’s 32 teams were

undefeated. The Patriots (3-0), the Cincinnati Bengals (4-0), the Denver Broncos (4-0), the Carolina Panthers (4-0), the Atlanta Falcons (4-0), and the Green Bay Packers (4-0). “I was most surprised by the fantastic debut of [Tennessee Titans rookie quarterback] Marcus Mariota. I never really thought he would come out of the gates as well as he did,” George Ryan, PE coach said, “However, I was not surprised by the performance of [Tampa Bay Buccaneers rookie

quarterback] Jameis Winston. I thought from the beginning it would take him time to adjust.” Week one also allowed fans a chance to see which division in the NFL is best. “I think the NFC West is the best division right now because the [Seattle] Seahawks, the [St. Louis] Rams, the [Arizona] Cardinals, and the [San Francisco] 49ers are all teams that are capable of making the playoffs,” Julian Leahy, eighth grade band major said. While Ryan said it takes “four weeks to see what is there” in terms of Super Bowl contenders, it was not difficult for some to see who the lesser teams in the NFL were. “I think that the Buccaneers, the [Oakland] Raiders, and the [Jacksonville] Jaguars will finish at the bottom this year,” Leahy said. As of Oct. 2, the Buccaneers have a 1-3 record after a win against the New Orleans Saints in week two, the Jaguars are 1-3 after a win against the Miami Dolphins in week two, and the Raiders are 2-2 because of two wins in a row against the Baltimore Ravens and the Cleveland Browns. Ryan mentioned the same three teams Leahy mentioned, but said that

there might be a fourth team that will be far down in the NFL. “I think that the [Chicago] Bears are going to look bad all year long. Although they have a lot of talent on their team, there is a lot of conflict amongst players who do not like starting quarterback Jay Cutler,” Ryan said. “As we have seen in the past, even if a team has talent, locker room issues can derail the season.” However, neither Ryan nor Leahy predicted the Dolphins to be near the bottom of the NFL, through four weeks, the Dolphins had a record of 1-3 and fired head coach Joe Philbin after the team’s 27-14 loss to the New York Jets in London. Although Ryan said it will take some time to see Super Bowl contenders, he did not shy away from making a prediction. Ryan said, “After seeing their performances in week one, I think that the Patriots and the Packers will make it. I think the Packers will struggle with the loss of wide receiver Jordy Nelson, but they still have enough talent elsewhere to go all the way.”

Articles Issue 2

Luke Stone

Co-Editor-In-Chief Features

Trump continues to lead in polls

Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump, left, and Jeb Bush spar early in the GOP debate at the Reagan Library in Simi Valley, Calif., on Wednesday, Sept. 16, 2015. (Robert Gauthier/ Los Angeles Times/ TNS)

By Luke Stone Co-Editor-In-Chief ith still over one year until the 2016 presidential election, business mogul Donald Trump and neurosurgeon Dr. Ben Carson were in the lead of the Republican presidential primary. “I would not say I am impressed with Trump’s numbers as much as I am surprised by the fact that his numbers have stayed this high for this long,”

Page 7

The Portfolio - December 2015

Douglas Battle, eighth grade social studies teacher said. Back in June 2015, before Donald Trump launched his campaign, former Florida governor John Ellis “Jeb” Bush was leading the polls with 23 percent of the vote, according to NBC News. Now, in their latest poll from Oct. 15, 2015, Bush was polling at eight percent. “[Based on the resources he has], Jeb Bush should be winning this primary. Before Trump entered,

everyone thought he would receive the nomination and now he is struggling,” Battle said. In fact, one candidate ahead of him was his protégé Senator Marco Rubio, Florida’s former Speaker of the House of Representatives while Bush was in office as governor. Currently, Rubio is polling at 13 percent, third best among Republican candidates. “Rubio is going to benefit a lot as the field starts to thin because he is a good,

solid Republican candidate. I think his senate voting record is going to hurt him a bit because he has missed key votes, but because he has new, fresh ideas and governmental experience will help him in the polls,” Battle said. So far, Trump and Bush have engaged in several arguments, most of them revolving around Bush’s brother, former President George W. Bush. The most recent of Trump’s attacks on Bush were about the Sept. 11, 2001 terrorist attacks. Trump said in an interview with Bloomberg TV, “When you talk about George Bush, I mean, say what you want, the World Trade Center came down during his time.” W Bush perceived the quote as a suggestion that his brother was responsible for the attacks. Jeb Bush took to Twitter to criticize Trump’s remarks, saying, “How pathetic of Donald Trump to criticize the president for 9/11. We were attacked and my brother kept us safe.” Battle said that while Trump may be leading in the polls, he may not win enough primaries to secure his party’s presidential nomination at their national convention next July.

School elects new SGA committee ith the new school year starting, a new Student Government Association (SGA) committee has been elected. Voting took place Oct. 27. Kevin Ray, newly elected SGA president said, “I want to be able to just get the kids ideas and what they want.” With 19 total students competing for seats on the committee, only 14 won seats. The four presidential candidates were Luke Stone, Jaylen Sanders, Kevin Ray, and Camila Fred. Ray ended up winning the presidential seat. “I was really excited, and just happy my hard work paid off,” Ray said. Part of Ray’s goals are to “bring back snack shack” which he stated in his speech. He also wants what the kids want, and has the idea to make a suggestion box where students can provide their input. “I want to make it a better school year, because the school year should be fun. People shouldn’t be dreading going to school,” Ray said. Popularity and bias play a big role

Photo courtesy of Shannon Owens

Eighth grade band major Kevin Ray records his SGA campaign speech. “I know most people think these elections are popularity contests,” Ray said. “ And while I may not be the most popular candidate I am the most experienced.”

in determining who will be the next president, which some may see as unfair. Some see elections as popularity contests, while others believe there was much more to it then how well known the candidates were. “Popularity can definitely have an effect on the election because you’re obviously going to vote for who you’re friends with, but it depends on your character and the type of person you are,” Eddie Diaz, seventh grade visual major said.

Becoming president was a big responsibility when it came to appealing to student’s suggestions and hopes, but all seats on the committee played a big role in decisions effecting the school. “Everyone is elected for a reason, and without one position, SGA as a whole could not function successfully,” Nikita Tanguturi, SGA secretary said. Students were hopeful the committee would make good changes to the school, and make

By Anushka Lakum Entertainment Editor Here are the top five funniest remarks that Trump has made while promoting his campaign. 1. “Sorry losers and haters, but my I.Q. is one of the highest— and you all know it! Please don’t feel so stupid or insecure. It’s not your fault.” 2. (www.telegraph.co.uk) 3. “Well, yes, I’ve fired a lot of people. Generally I like other people to fire, because it’s always a lousy task.” (www.brainyquote.com) 4. “You know the funny thing is, I don’t get along with rich people. I get along with the middle class and the poor people better than I get along with the rich people.” (http://www.ibtimes.com) 5. “I don’t need anybody’s money. It’s nice. I don’t need anybody’s money. I’m using my own money. I’m not using the lobbyists. I’m not using donors. I don’t care. I’m really rich.” (www.genius.com) 6. “I am very proud of my great performance tonight. I am not a debater, but I am a winner. If I am elected I will make this country a total winner - I will make America great again.”

History, tradition drives today’s student government

“Every day Americans need a Lily Gumbinner champion. And I want to be that Photo Editor s current President Barack champion,” Clinton said according to Obama’s term comes to an the New York Times. “So I’m hitting end, democratic candidates the road to earn your vote — because Hillary Clinton, Lawrence Lessig, it’s your time. And I hope you’ll join Martin O’Malley, and Bernie Sanders me on this journey.” are looking to take his place in 2016. Current Vermont senator, Sanders, “I think that the elections are more announced his running for president exciting and close than last time, but on April 30, 2015. Sanders was named there are candidates that are worse a “Top 20 US Progressive,” according this year. You really have both sides of to “The New Statesman,” a magazine the spectrum,” based in the United Alex Robinson, Kingdom. eighth grade They could lead us to “In terms of Hillary, vocal major said. success or put us behind I respect her. I’ve According to known her. I like her. in our goals for our Polling Report, So I’m not running Clinton was in country.” to attack Hillary the lead with 64 Clinton. I’m running percent and Sanders was behind her to talk about the issues that impact the with 25 percent as of Oct. 18. working class of this country and the “They are going to lead our country middle class,” Sanders said according for four years. They could lead us to to the Huffington Post. success or put us behind in our goals Other candidates Lessig and O’Malley for our country,” Shannon Owens, decided to run after Clinton and communications teacher said. Sanders. Their polls are about one to Clinton, former Secretary of State, two percent who plan to vote for them. New York senator, and first lady, Owens said, “This election has been announced her candidacy on April 12, a whole lot more exciting than it has 2015. Clinton also ran for president been in the past which is a good thing in 2008, but lost the primary election because more people will be part of to Barack Obama, according to the process. Ballotpedia.

By Luke Stone Co-Editor-In-Chief s the votes were counted, two dozen students sat anxiously in their classes over several days to see if all of their hard work campaigning had paid off and if they would be a Bak Student Government Association [SGA] representative. In the United States, student government began after college students across the country started to feel that they should have a say in the parts of college life that had an effect on them the most, according to faqs. org. “In this country, the idea of student government has been around for a while,” Debra Fiore, eighth grade social studies teacher and SGA co-sponsor said. “I was a student government representative when I was in middle school.” Much like early American student governments, Sharon Campbell, eighth grade social studies teacher and cosponsor wanted SGA to allow the student body to speak their mind. “[The purpose of SGA is to] allow our student representatives to get involved with changing our school and to give the student body a way for their voices to be heard,” Campbell said. Campbell also spoke of how

Articles-Issue 2-Presidential Primaries

Trump continues to lead in polls

Democratic candidates go head to head in upcoming elections

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Features

important SGA is to students. “I think that SGA is important because it gives students a sort of buyin into the school. I also think that it should give students school pride and that is part of why I got involved,” Campbell said. Fiore said her goal for SGA was to get representatives actively involved in serving the community. “My goal is for SGA to get our representatives involved in community service,” Fiore said, “One of the things I had in mind was a holiday book drive.” Campbell’s goal for SGA revolved around the student body’s attitude toward school. “My goal is for SGA to make students here be happy to come to school,” Campbell said. “I want the students to view coming to school as a privilege, rather than viewing school as a chore.” Campbell, a first-time SGA sponsor stated that the students were one of the best aspects of the club. “I have really enjoyed being a sponsor so far,” Campbell said, “We have a great group [of students] so far. We [Fiore and myself] enjoy this group so much that we wish there was enough room for them all to be a part of SGA.”

school generally more enjoyable. Diaz said, “Basically I look for a strong person to represent us and that can handle the hard decisions, someone that can give us what we want,” With the new SGA committee elected, and students’ voices heard, now only time will tell if changes take place.

SGA elected officials

By Jordan Taylor Website Editor

With the recent Student Government elections starting on Oct. 26, candidates campaigned as much as they could to tell the student body to vote for them. They used strategies like putting up posters, expressed their ideas to get votes and the recorded speeches. These are the elected Student Government officials for the 2016 school year. Secretary: Nikita Tanguturi Treasurer: Ben Gao Historian: Sam Rosenkranz Sixth grade Senators: Se’Maj Griffin, Ava Murray and Olivia Arnold Seventh grade Senators: Ainhoa Bezerra-Gastesi, Alexandra Watson and Juan Plaza Eighth grade Senators: Shaina Franks, Jaylen Sanders and Camila Fred Vice President: Ervin Williams President:

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The Portfolio - December 2015

By Jacob Schlessel Copy Editor

Famous Trump Quotes

Page 6

School elects new SGA committee By Jacob Schlessel Copy Editor

ith the new school year starting, a new Student Government Association (SGA) committee has been elected. Voting took place Oct. 27. Kevin Ray, newly elected SGA president said, “I want to be able to just get the kids ideas and what they want.” With 19 total students competing for seats on the committee, only 14 won seats. The four presidential candidates were Luke Stone, Jaylen Sanders, Kevin Ray, and Camila Fred. Ray ended up winning the presidential seat. “I was really excited, and just happy my hard work paid off,” Ray said. Part of Ray’s goals are to “bring back snack shack” which he stated in his speech. He also wants what the kids want, and has the idea to make a suggestion box where students can provide their input. “I want to make it a better school year, because the school year should be fun. People shouldn’t be dreading going to school,” Ray said. Popularity and bias play a big role

Photo courtesy of Shannon Owens

Famous Trump Quotes

Democratic candidates go head to head in upcoming elections

History, tradition drives today’s student government

“Every day Americans need a Lily Gumbinner champion. And I want to be that Photo Editor s current President Barack champion,” Clinton said according to Obama’s term comes to an the New York Times. “So I’m hitting end, democratic candidates the road to earn your vote — because Hillary Clinton, Lawrence Lessig, it’s your time. And I hope you’ll join Martin O’Malley, and Bernie Sanders me on this journey.” are looking to take his place in 2016. Current Vermont senator, Sanders, “I think that the elections are more announced his running for president exciting and close than last time, but on April 30, 2015. Sanders was named there are candidates that are worse a “Top 20 US Progressive,” according this year. You really have both sides of to “The New Statesman,” a magazine the spectrum,” based in the United Alex Robinson, Kingdom. eighth grade They could lead us to “In terms of Hillary, vocal major said. success or put us behind I respect her. I’ve According to known her. I like her. Polling Report, in our goals for our So I’m not running Clinton was in country.” to attack Hillary the lead with 64 Clinton. I’m running percent and Sanders was behind her to talk about the issues that impact the with 25 percent as of Oct. 18. working class of this country and the “They are going to lead our country middle class,” Sanders said according for four years. They could lead us to to the Huffington Post. success or put us behind in our goals Other candidates Lessig and O’Malley for our country,” Shannon Owens, decided to run after Clinton and communications teacher said. Sanders. Their polls are about one to Clinton, former Secretary of State, two percent who plan to vote for them. New York senator, and first lady, Owens said, “This election has been announced her candidacy on April 12, a whole lot more exciting than it has 2015. Clinton also ran for president been in the past which is a good thing in 2008, but lost the primary election because more people will be part of to Barack Obama, according to the process. Ballotpedia.

Kevin Ray

Articles-Issue 2-SGA History

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Co-Editor-In-Chief

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SGA elected officials

By Jordan Taylor Website Editor

Luke Stone Co-Editor-In-Chief

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The Portfolio December 2015

Arts & Academics

Students put knowledge to real world events in Washington By Ervin Williams Technology Editor

11.

tudents in the eighth grade went on a Social studies trip to Washington DC. from Nov. 7 -

The students went to some of the “hot spots” of DC., according to Brandon Wisnicki, eighth grade communications major said. “It’s one thing to read about DC in a book. It’s completely different seeing it up close,” Douglas Battle, eighth grade social studies teacher said. “Seeing the Lincoln Memorial up close, where Dr. Martin Luther King delivered one of the greatest speeches in all of American history, is as moving a sight as I have ever experienced in my life.” According to educase.edu, Active Learning Classrooms (ALCs) had the most positive growth in learning, for example school trips, discussions, and immersions. “I am most looking forward to visiting Washington to be immersed in the history that I am learning this year,” Alex Haddad, eighth grade communication major said.

Photo by Luke Stone

Students make a stop in front of the North Lawn of The White House on Nov. 10, 2015 after the end of their tour of the building. That day, the group also made stops at the National Archives, the Jefferson Memorial, Union Station, the Museum of Natural History, and the Museum of American History.

The trip included visits to George Washington’s house, touring the White House, and other activities which provided some students with the answer to the question: Why is history so important? “If you don’t learn from history,

you are doomed to repeat it. It is so important to learn the past. It helps provide a roadmap to the future,” Battle said. The students were exposed to different aspects of government and how it runs, but one student found that

the trip was more than just reinforcing what was taught. Wisnicki said, “This trip shows me how the government is not all about the politics, but what the government can do for us and how it can help us.”

Articles-Issue 2- Washington DC Trip

Chorale to broadcast on The Education Network this December teacher, said. “For those who do, this have felt stressed or worried. Lacie Michaelis, seventh grade vocal experience will help them get over their major, said, “Of course I’m nervous. nerves when on stage.” The holiday special will air in I want to do well and looking terrbile December, and anyone can tune in to in front of the audience is my worst nightmare.” watch and listen “This opportunity to Chorale as exposes them to the they sing songs This opportunity behind-the-scenes such as “Deck part of a production. the Halls” and exposes them to the “Here We Come behind-the-scenes They will get to see producers and A-Caroling,” really learn how that Rachel Robinson, part of production.” seventh grade industry works,” theater major, said. Taylor said. “It’s good publicity for the school and Though it may have been challenging music department. People from the for students not to get nervous or community will really get to experience worried while preparing for this event, what Bak can really do,” Taylor said. many felt that what mattered most was This was the initial year that the that they performed to their best ability. school of the arts was chosen to Taylor said, “Ultimately, I want their perform in the special. It was a huge friends and family to see their success honor, according to Taylor, but many and be proud of what the students students performing in this event may have done.”

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Photo by Ashley Kulberg

With perfect pitch, Chorale prepares to be filmed for the Education Network’s (T.E.N.) Holiday Special. T.E.N. is the official television station for The School District of Palm Beach County.

By Ashley Kulberg Photo Editor

Annual Holiday Special. Bak MSOA was one of the few schools featured in the program. ak students in Chorale earned “Some of these students will go the opportunity to be film into performing,” Kent Taylor, vocal for The Education Network’s

Rozanski: We were very well prepared, familiar with testing By Madaleine Rubin Co Editor In Chief

ast spring, students in Palm Beach County all clicked submit on their computers, ending weeks of Florida Standards Assessment (FSA) testing. Now parents, students, and teachers all await FSA Achievement Levels that they had expected to get in September. “Normally, parents, teachers, and students would have already received Achievement Levelsbut this year, the state delayed the process because cut scores have not

Achievement Levels, been voted on and given final and levels 3 and approval by the above are considered This preparation, state legislature,” proficient. Sally Rozanski, coupled with the hard “In January, once school principal, the cut-scores work of the students said. are approved, In previous and staff, resulted in Achievement Levels years, students each student should high academic achieving for received scores be determined,” ranging from scores.” Rozanski said. one through Parents, students, and teachers received five, one being the lowest possible score and five the percentage scores through an Individual highest. These scores are known as FSA Student Report on Nov. 9.

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“Based on the proposed cut scores, I determined achievement levels for students,” Rozanski said. If the proposed Achievement Levels are used, then Bak will remain the top middle school in the county in academic achievement. Rozanski said, “We were very wellprepared and familiar with the testing system, and we conducted practice tests. This preparation, coupled with the hard work of the students and staff, resulted in high academic achieving scores.”

Luke Stone

Co-Editor-In-Chief

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The Portfolio February 2016

Editorial

Some Bak MSOA staff, students do not appreciate arts enough

Cartoon by Angela Yan

they or their friends have criticized other majors before. This is a problem because it means that art areas are not being showcased enough so students realize the hard work that comes with each one. The majority of the student body is affected by this problem because they are not exposed to other art areas they do not realize the work required with

a music concert, a dance performance, a visual showcase, a play in theater, or producing a publication. There are several ways to ﬁx the problem. First of all, the school can require teachers to take their students to some performances. Is missing out on an hour and a half of geometry, language arts, science, or history really going to affect students ﬁfteen years

down the road? Besides, we’re not talking about every single performance, only one or two per quarter. Also, the school can have more events like Artsgiving. Give students the opportunity to get an inside look at each major so they can grow to appreciate all majors more.

Murmurs from the Crowd:

Articles-Issue 3-Arts Appreciation

Articles Issue 3

ak MSOA: Bak Middle School of the Arts. The keyword in that statement is “Arts”. Unfortunately, the sad reality is that staff and students at our school do not support the arts. The Portfolio staff believes that everyone at Bak should appreciate and support the arts because after all, it is why we are here. Out of 20 students surveyed, 90 percent of them thought that their major was not appreciated. This is a signiﬁcant problem because the arts is what brought us all together here. Additionally, 95 percent of students thought that Bak needed to showcase the arts more often. Although 70 percent of students felt that the annual Artsgiving event helped them appreciate the arts more, 90 percent of them thought that the school could do more than Artsgiving. Also, 80 percent of students felt they do not go to enough performances and only 40 percent of students said their teachers regularly took them. Once again, these statistics circle back to the fact that the arts are not being showcased enough at the school. On top of all of this, 55 percent of students surveyed admitted that

Artsgiving 2015

What did you think about Artsgiving? “I liked Artsgiving because I thought it was cool to see what all of the other majors did. At the same time, I thought that it was confusing because so many things were happening at once,” Madison Elliott, eighth grade theater major said. What was your favorite part of Artsgiving? “My favorite part of Artsgiving was getting to see all of my friends because a lot of them are different majors and I do not get to see them often,” Elliott said. The Portfolio Staff:

Copy Editor Jacob Schlessel

What did you think of Artsgiving? I think it is important because it is one of the only times in the year that we get to see what the other majors do.,” Christian Stephens, eighth grade theater major said. What was your favorite part of Artsgiving? My favorite part of Artsgiving was the plays. Being in the theater department, you hear a lot about other productions, but do not get to see them because you are working hard on your own productions. So, I enjoyed seeing the plays. ‘The Lottery’ was my favorite,” Stephens said.

Features Editor Carlos Trivino

Co-Editor-In-Chiefs Madaleine Rubin Luke Stone Photo Editor(s)

Business Manager Nikita Tanguturi Section Editors:

Lily Gumbinner

News Editor

Ashley Kulberg

Angela Yan

Sports Editor Sreenidhi Nidamanur Arts and Academics Editor Valentina Gomez Technology Editor

Website Editor Jordan Taylor

Entertainment Editor

Ervin Williams

Anushka Lakum Adviser Jessica Samons

The Portfolio Policy Statement Published six times a year, the student newspaper of Bak Middle School of the Arts is a public forum, with its student editorial board making all decision concerning its content and unsigned editorials. letters to the editor are welcomed and will be published as space allows. Letters may be signed, although the staff may withhold names on request. The editor reserves the right to edit letters for grammar and clarity, and all letters are subject to laws governing obscene, libel, privacy and disruption of the school process as all are contents. Opinions in the letter are not necessarily those of the staff nor should any opinion expressed in a forum be construed as the opinion or policy of the administration unless so attributed Six issues published by Sun Coast Press Members of the NSPA/JEA Bak Middle School of the Arts 1725 Echo Lake Drive West Palm Beach, Florida 33407 (561) 882-3870 *Fax (561) 882-3879

Luke Stone

Co-Editor-In-Chief

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Co-Editor-In-Chief

News

The Portfolio February 2016

Entertainment

‘Hello’- Adele returns with her first album in four years

Students present poetry, speeches, graphics in sixth grade communications showcase

Daphne Scroggins

SGA candy canes

“Of course, we did not have the money sitting around to just give them, so we had to find some way to make money, so we decided on candy canes, which followed the season,” Deborah Fiore, SGA sponsor said. SGA, does not only strive to “provide the school with resources to make it better”, but also feels that “giving back is even more of a responsibility,” Ray said. “When I think about giving back, I am not just thinking, how can I make

High school choice programs Continued from page 1 By Lily Gumbinner Photo Editor The mission of the Office of K-12 School Choice was to support quality public and private educational choice programs by providing information and assistance to promote successful outcomes for students, families, institutions and communities, according to the Florida Department of Education.

my school better, but also what can I do to make the community feel like students appreciate it.” Ray said. SGA was not going to stop at giving back and is now starting a second fundraiser for orphans who are “forgotten every year after Christmas,” according to Campbell. “It seems like people only care about these orphans one time a year, and after that they are forgotten,” Fiore said. SGA’s main goal was “to help”, Ray said. Ray said, “If we do not give to the people who are in need, who else will? Our school community is just as important as the community around us.”

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“Art schools have a different deadline which is in early December because of the auditions. All other choice programs deadline is in late January,” Glaze said. Taking a tour and visiting the school was another way to get more information on the schools and get a better idea of the programs that they offered. Glaze said, “We are very fortunate in Palm Beach County to have choice programs. Just make sure to turn in your applications on time, visit the school, understand and meet the requirements.

The district announced the course of action they took to solve the problems, including reassigning employees from other departments to help in transportation, changing the starting and ending times at four middle schools, and hiring 75 bus drivers.

11-18-2015

11-2-2015

9-4-2015

Less than one month after the problems on the first day of school, Dr. Robert Avossa hired an independent firm to conduct a third party investigation.

‘The Hunger Games: Mockingjay-Part 2’ hits theaters, ratings surge

The district released the reports from law firm Haliczer, Pettis & Schwamm, P.A. and the report from the Council of Great City Schools. As of Nov. 18, 2015, the district had an on-time performance of 95 percent.

By Maddy Rubin Co-Editor In Chief he Hunger Games: Mockingjay-Part 2,” the major motion picture finale to Suzanne Collins best-selling trilogy, was released on Nov. 16, 2015. The movie has grossed in about $247 million worldwide. It opens showing Katniss Everdeen, played by Jennifer Lawrence. It was engaging, but it gave no background as to where it was picking up from its predeccessor. “The Hunger Games: MockingjayPart 1” was a slow moving picture that set the stage for the “revolution” that would supposedly take full force in the follow up film. I found, however, that the action scenes did not necessarily begin right away in the final movie and took a bit too long to finally appear. Stars like Lawrence, Josh Hutcherson (Peeta Mallark), Donald Sutherland (President Snow), and Julianne Moore (President Coyne) all brought the emotion of the book on to the big screen. The unique technology and camera angles also deserve high praise. This long-awaited end to the Hunger Games series trumped its predecessor only in overall quality. After reviewing “The Hunger Games: Mockingjay-Part 2,” I rate it a 4 out of 5 stars.

through heartwarming lyrics and a dynamic voice. After listening and comparing “25” to her past two albums, “21” and “19”, Adele now focuses on unlocking the true potential of her voice and her feelings, with lyrics that tell stories through music. “There is something in your loving that tears down my walls,” she sings. Every song in the album contrastsfrom the others, from a slow R&B melody, like in “Remedy” to songs with instrumental backgrounds, like in “All I Ask”, and in “I Miss You.” This makes every song a diferent experience, which is what I feel goes underapreciated in pop music.

Winter chills bring chocolate cravings

Photo by Ervin Williams

At the beginning of the school year, the School District of Palm Beach County struggled with the most significant transportation issues in the district’s history. Three months later, the district has seen improvements, but they say, “Efforts continue to improve upon our recent levels.”

On the first day of school, 40 percent of buses arrived late, according to The Sun Sentinel. Some students reported that their stops were skipped altogether.

Photo courtesy of Chicago Tribune

Showing change from past years, Adele faces new challenges, such as motherhood. Her feelings are expressed through her music.

The Student Government Association sold candy canes to pay for students at U.B. Kinsey to have better resources to learn. Sharon Campbell said, “You don’t always get to help someone in need. This is a perfect chance to do so.”

“Our goal has been to regionalize affect a student in many ways. “It is best to visit the schools and the high-school and middle-school programs, so that no matter where take tours. Some parents will miss the deadline and you live, you are then you wouldn’t near a program,” Peter Licata, Director Read, do research, and be able to choose the right school,” of Choice and Glaze said. Career Options said, don’t take anything When choosing according to the Sun for granted.” a high school, it is Sentinel. Students could earn industry necessary that the application was filled certifications that lead to high skill, high out correctly and on time. Especially wage, and high demand occupations, if the school required an audition, according to the Choice program. like Dreyfoos School of the Arts or Choosing the right program could Boynton Beach High School.

By Nikita Tanguturi, Business Manager fter waiting four years, most Adele fans are glad to hear that she is back with a new album, “25”. With hits like “Sweetest Devotion”, “Remedy” and of course, “Hello.” Adele’s “Hello” started at the top of Billboard’s top charts, keeping a steady ranking of first place. As she sung of past lovers, the heartbreak she went through was reflected in an array of dynamics, from high to low. This was one of the things that made the album differ from other pop albums. Adele conveys her true feelings

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Transportation Crisis Timeline

8-17-2015

Articles-Issue 3-Transportation Sidebar

Continued from page 1 By Ervin Williams Technology Editor

he annual sixth grade communications showcase was back with this year’s “Inside Bak” theme. Students performed live radio dramas, read poetry, and gave speeches. “Everyone will see what the sixth graders have done, and we’ll have our own turn to shine,” Diksha Gupta, sixth grade communications major, said. The students had only a portion of time to practice with their teacher, and after that they would have to practice by themselves. “During our nine week time, [the students] were able to create and

practice their events,” Alyssa Vaknin, they were practicing and rehearsing speech and debate teacher, said. their pieces. Teachers helped students prepare “I learned about performing in front for their performances and perfect of a large audience,” Manocchio said. the skills needed. Everyone had their own opinion of “My teacher gave me tips and the showcase, including teachers. “The showcase was explained what the performance was very entertaining, and mainly about,” “People get to see I am proud of all the students who worked Sofia Manocchio, what we’ve learned, hard to show their sixth grade communications and we’re very talented talent,” Vaknin said. major, said. Sixth graders in the Parents and other and make things fun for showcase were “pretty confident” about their majors’ students the audience,” performances. who watched Gupta said, “I the showcase got to have an inside look into think we did well because we’re all communications majors and this is communication arts. Students learned a lot of things while why we got into Bak.”

Articles-Issue 3-Star Wars Review

By Anushka Lakum Entertainment Editor

Page 5

The Portfolio February 2016

Photo courtesy of ew.com

“Mockingjay: Part 2” grossed in about $279.4 million worldwide.

With quite a few collaborators, which include Paul Epworth, Max Martin, Danger Mouse, and Bruno Mars Smeezintons squad among them, “25” reveals a delicate side of Adele as she faces a new set of challenges, such as motherhood and a pressing vocal chord operation. After selling more than 3.38 billion copies in its first week released in the United Kingdom, Adele’s “25’; has been a huge hit. Due to her voice and her lyrics, I give “25” five out of five stars.I recommend everyone, (even if you are not a hardcore Adele fan) to buy the album.

‘Star Wars: The Force Awakens’ one of best in franchise history

By Luke Stone Co-Editor-In-Chief fter a long 10 year wait, Star Wars fans across the world got to see the seventh installment of Lucasfilm’s famous series, “Star Wars: The Force Awakens.” The movie takes place 30 years after the events of “Star Wars: Return of the Jedi” and was centered around three new protagonists. After being captured by the evil First Order, Resistance pilot Poe Dameron (Oscar Isaac) was being held captive on one of their ships until Finn (John Boyega), a stormtrooper who wants to flee, helps him get to the main hangar to escape. After taking a ship, the two attempt to escape to Jakku, where Poe must find a droid named BB-8. JJ Abrams, the director, did great with the film’s plot, even with the 30 year time gap. He added new characters to ease the transition between episodes, while keeping old characters like Han Solo (Harrison Ford), Luke Skywalker (Mark Hamill), and Leia Organa (Carrie Fisher) to keep their stories alive. Unfortunately, other old cast members had no reason for being there, like C-3PO (Anthony Daniels) and Admiral Ackbar (Tim Rose). I give the film four and a half out of five stars because Abrams did a great job with the plot and characters, but dropped the ball with some old cast members who took away from the film.

Dunkin’ Donuts

Panera Bread By Valentina Gomez Arts and Academics editor he cold arrived and so did the cravings for hot chocolate. I visited four places. I critiqued them on customer service, the hot chocolates’ taste, how clean the restaurant was, how hot or cold it was and the waiting time. I first went to Dunkin’ Donuts. It was mostly clean besides the occasional dirty napkins on the floor. The service was poor. The barista failed to provide options for me like whipped cream. The hot chocolate, on the other hand, was exceptional. It was at the perfect temperature. The texture was smooth, not too thick. The waiting time was also very quick. Because of these critiques, I gave Dunkin’ Donuts 3.5 stars out of 5. The second place I visited was Starbucks. Due to a long line, the waiting time was slow. The customer service was really good as they were polite and took accurate notes of my order. The hot chocolate was at an adequate temperature. It had a creamy texture since the barista asked me if I wanted

Starbucks

Toojay’s Deli

cream. I rated Starbucks 4 out of 5 stars. Next, I went to Panera Bread. The customer service was unsatisfactory. The employee had a bored tone, not being helpful. The restaurant was very clean. The hot chocolate came with marshmallows which gave the taste a thicker texture. Although, the chocolate was too hot as it burnt my tongue. For the waiting time, it was incredibly quick. I gave Panera Bread 3 stars out 5. The last place I visited was TooJay’s Gourmet Deli. The customer service was exceedingly good. The waiters all had big smiles and took great notes. The hot chocolate was unfortunately burnt. The flavor tasted more like coffee than it did hot chocolate. The waiting time was really good since all the employees went through every customer’s order fast. The restaurant was also very neat. I rated TooJay’s Gourmet Deli 3 stars. Overall, Starbucks sold the best hot Photo courtesy of Tribune News Service chocolate, scoring 4 out of 5 stars because of the best customer service, MOMS-CSM-MOVIE-REVIEWtaste, cleanness, and temperature. STAR-WARS-VII-1-MCT

Luke Stone

Co-Editor-In-Chief

Page 2

The Portfolio March 2016

Editorial

needs an experienced politician 2016 Election: America in the Oval Office for the next four years

Articles-Issue 4-Trump Editorial

Articles Issue 4

mmigration, terrorism, gun violence, and the national deficit are just some of the key issues that presidential candidates from both parties have been debating for months. As voters across the country begin to cast their primary ballots, they must ask themselves, “Which candidate is most fit to lead our country?” The 2016 election is arguably the most important one of this century because it will determine the country’s future. This staff believes that the country needs to elect a politician who has experience holding high public office and not an amateur politician like outspoken real-estate mogul Donald Trump. This country does not have time for a President to spend his first term in office learning the ropes of basic American politics, and needs a President who can come into office and deliver almost immediate solutions. Trump is not the answer now and never will be. He has no foreign policy experience, no experience in public office, and his “solutions” to America’s problems are un-Republican, unAmerican, and some of them are downright unconstitutional. For example, building a wall on the southern border of the United States is an asinine notion that will ruin U.S. relations with Mexico. Banning Muslims from immigrating to the U.S. clearly violates the First Amendment right to freedom of religion.

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Cartoon by Angela Yan

Not only is his policy out of touch with modern American principles, the words of his speeches are often insincere, as he tries to pander to every demographic of American voters. For example, in a speech at Liberty University in Jan. 2016, Trump said, “Two Corinthians, 3:17, that is the whole ballgame.” Trump was attempting to refer to The Bible’s second book of Corinthians and showed he was trying to appeal to everyone by failing to cite the verse properly. This election will affect everyone in America, including people who do not vote. The leader this country chooses

will determine what the country does about tax rates, healthcare, the national deﬁcit, and foreign policy. The American people are too ﬁxated on Trump, and it was shown that he is clearly not the answer. He is an example of why this election is important-just the fact that he is the leading candidate in polls shows that Americans no longer trust their representatives to do what is in their best interest. It is time to bridge the trust between the American people and the federal government by electing a candidate with experience, like Florida Sen. Marco Rubio who can put the country back on track.

Murmurs from the Crowd: Thoughts on potential Presidential nominees

I think that Hillary Clinton is the best candidate because she has the best ideas on how to run the country. Republicans think her ideas are crazy, but they are similar to the ideas that run government in Europe. And those countries seem to function just ﬁne,” Thomas Fontaine, eighth grade communications major said.

The Portfolio Staff:

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Co-Editors-in-Chief Luke Stone Madaleine Rubin

Although Rubio is young, he has gained valuable experience in his short time in politics. He served as the Florida House of Representatives Majority Leader, the Speaker of The Florida House of Representatives, and is now nearing the end of his ﬁrst term in the United States Senate. In the Senate, he has served on the Foreign Relations Committee, the Select Committee on Intelligence, and the Small Business and Entrepreneurship Committee. On these Congressional committees, he has learned skills he will be able to apply if he is the next President in the Oval Ofﬁce.

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I think Marco Rubio is the best candidate because he has very strong conservative views like Donald Trump, but he goes about advocating his ideas in a more civilized fashion. Also, Rubio is much easier to get along with and he has a lot of foreign policy experience,” Jordan Juliano, eighth grade visual major said.

Business Manager Nikita Tanguturi

Entertainment Anushka Lakum

Section Editors: News Angela Yan

Website Editor Jordan Taylor

Photo Editors Lily Gumbinner Ashley Kulberg

Arts & Academics Valentina Gomez

Copy Editor Jacob Schlessel

Features Carlos Trivino

Sports & Clubs Sreenidhi Nidamanur Technology Ervin Williams Adviser Jessica Samons

”

Luke Stone

Co-Editor-In-Chief

The Portfolio Sports & Clubs Page 10 March 2016 Broncos defeat Panthers 24-10 in Super Bowl 50

News Page 4 Clinton earn frontrunner Presidential Primaries: Trump, status after early primary victories The Portfolio March 2016

n Feb. 1, 2016, the ﬁrst votes of the 2016 Presidential election cycle were cast in the Iowa caucus. After more than six months of campaigning, Sen. Ted Cruz of Texas emerged victorious in the caucus on the Republican side, and Sec. Hillary Clinton edged out Sen. Bernie Sanders of Vermont on the Democratic side.

Hillary Clinton speaks with husband Bill Clinton and daughter Chelsea Clinton by her side in Ankeny, Iowa, on Mon. Feb. 1, 2016. Clinton narrowly defeated Sen. Bernie Sanders in Monday’s Democratic Iowa caucus. (AftonbladetIBL/Zuma Press/TNS)

“I was surprised that Cruz won despite his reputation of not getting along well with Congress,”Lisa Hanser,seventh grade social studies teacher said. Cruz won Iowa with 27.6 percent of the vote, 3.3 percent ahead of second place finisher Donald Trump, who finished with 24.3 percent. As for the results of the Democratic caucus, Clinton, who finished with 49.6 percent, narrowly defeated Sanders, who finished with 49.3 percent “On the Democratic side, I was surprised that it was as close as it was.,” Hanser said. Another result some viewed as surprising in the Republican field was Florida Sen. Marco Rubio’s strong performance, finishing in third place with 23.1 percent, only 1.2 percent behind Trump. “For months they told us because we didn’t have the right endorsements or the right political connections, we had no chance,” Rubio said in his speech on the night of the caucus. “But tonight, here in Iowa, the people of this great state have sent a very clear message.”

Eight days after the Iowa caucus, the first primaries of the election cycle were held in New Hampshire. The results were clear relatively early on. 24hour news networks across the country called the Republican primary for Trump and the Democratic primary for Sanders. Both of them dominated the rest of the field in their party. Trump finished with 35.4 percent of the vote, nearly 20 percent higher than second place finisher, Ohio Gov. John Kasich. As for Sanders, he finished with 60. 2 percent of the vote, 22 points ahead of Clinton. “Together we have sent a message that will echo from Wall Street to Washington, from Maine to California,” Sanders said in his victory speech. “And that is that the government of our great country belongs to all of the people, and not just a handful of wealthy campaign contributors and their super PACs.” On the Republican side, the competition started to get tighter for spots at the middle of the field. The margin between third place finisher

Cruz and ﬁfth place ﬁnisher Rubio was only 1.2 percent. “You have all reset the race,” Bush said to supporters on the night of the primary. “This campaign is not dead. We’re going to South Carolina.”

Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump speaks after coming in second place at his Iowa Caucus night gathering in Des Moines, Iowa, on Mon. Feb 1, 2016. (Dennis Van Tine/ Abaca Press/TNS)

Annual spelling bee allows students to represent Bak at regionals

By Valentina Gomez Arts and Academics Editor ecently, Danielle Nelson, seventh grade visual arts major, won the annual school wide spelling bee on Jan. 28 in the media center. “The school spelling bee was very intense. We ran out of words which had never happened before,” Jennifer Gardner, language arts teacher, said. The students were given words such as pneumatic, WYSIWYG, epoxy, methodology, guardian and anachronism. “I prepared for the spelling bee by going over the words and circling the ones I misspelled so I can work extra hard on them,” Esha Dudhwewala, seventh grade communications major, said. Little to no preparation was available during the ﬁrst round or classroom spelling bee. “In the class spelling bee, we didn’t give out a list to study since we’re looking for the natural spellers,” Gardner said. The second round, the school spelling bee, was held in the morning in the media center, organized by Jennifer Gardner. Each student was

Articles-Issue 4-Primary Update

given a number to indicate when to go up. Winners of each class were given a list of words to practice. “The students were very well prepared this year more so than the students have any other year,” Gardner said. During the spelling bee, many of the strategies had strengths they used in spelling the words correctly. “The easiest part was how a lot of the words were not difficult to spell since you can ask for the definition and word in context,” Dudhewewala said. Students in the spelling bee also struggled with disadvantages such as preparadness and memorization. before and during the competition. “Preparedness could also be a weakness for the students, too. In the first round of the school, you could easily tell the students who studied and who didn’t,” Gardner said. “The hardest part was memorizing the spellings of all the words from different origins and the pressure when you go up there,” Dudhewewala said. The winner of the school’s spelling bee was Danielle Nelson and the runner up was Luke Stone, eighth

Eighth grade visual trip Continued from page 1 By Angela Yan News Editor he institution later became the state art museum. “The Ringling Museum was comprised of various works of art gathered in one place,” Lianna McDonald, eighth grade visual major said. Students took an audio tour of the Salvador Dali Museum on the second day. Dali was a famous Spanish surrealist painter who lived from 1904 to 1989. His works often featured

Photo by Angela Yan

A sculpture made completely out of glass hangs from the ceiling of the Chihuly Collection. This particular sculpture took hours to assemble because each piece had to be put in a speciﬁc spot.

Photo by Valentina Gomez

Danielle Nelson, seventh grade visual major, win Bak’s annual spelling bee. She moved on to regionals along with the runner up, Luke Stone, eighth grade communications major.

grade communications major. the regional spelling bee but I’m also, Nelson said, “I’m excited to go to at the same time, really nervous.” optical illusions. “We were able to visit museums that Emily Colainta, eighth grade visual we’ve never been to before, like the major said. “I got to spend some time Museum of Fine Arts,” Colainta said. going through the Dali Museum with “It gave us a sense of independence my friends.” while still being in a group.” The Morean Art Center boasted the On the final day, students enjoyed Chihuly Collection, Dale Chihuly’s three hours at the Florida Aquarium. permanent glass exhibition in St. The aquarium not only exposed visitors Petersburg. to marine life, but had a Madagascar “All of the works in the Chihuly exhibit as well. Collection were intricately sculpted,” McDonald said, “I felt tired [on the McDonald said. drive home] because we had a fun and The Museum of Fine Arts, also in St. fulfilling day at the aquarium.” Petersburg, is “the only comprehensive The trip was both the first and last art collection of its kind on Florida’s trip for the visual class of 2016. west coast,” according to the museum’s Lumely said, “We experienced another website. side of art that we didn’t know before.”

Articles-Issue 4-Super Bowl & Boys Basketball

By Luke Stone Co-Editor-In-Chief

Name: Peyton Manning Team: Denver Broncos Born: March 24, 1976 (Age 39) in New Orleans, LA Height: 6’5” Weight: 230 lbs College: University of Tennessee Drafted: First Round, First Overall Pick (1998) Experience: 18th NFL Season Career Regular Season Record: 186-79 Career Postseason Record: 14-13 Super Bowl Record: 2-2 Career Passing Yards: 71,940 Career Passing Yards per Game: 270.5 Career Rushing Yards: 667 Career Rushing Yards per Game: 2.5 Career Passing Touchdowns: 539 Career Rushing Touchdowns: 18 Career Interceptions: 251 By Luke Stone Co-Editor-In-Chief fter lengthy pregame festivities, a football game finally broke out in Santa Clara, Calif., between the Denver Broncos and the Carolina Panthers in Super Bowl 50. The game got off to a slow start with only three points through the first four and a half minutes of action on a 34 yard field goal from Broncos kicker Brandon McManus. Then, the Broncos struck for their first touchdown of the game after linebacker Von Miller broke into the backfield and forced a fumble, which was recovered by Malik Jackson in the end zone. “In all honesty, we came into the game wanting to play our defense,” Miller said after the game, according to ESPN, “We knew if we were to

Broncos quarterback Peyton Manning throws during the ﬁrst quarter of the AFC Championship game on Sunday, Jan. 24, 2016, at Sports Authority Field at Mile High in Denver. (Mark Reis/ Colorado Springs Gazette/TNS). Atlanta Falcons outside linebacker Vic Beasley Jr. forces Carolina Panthers quarterback, Cam Newton to throw a pass away under pressure during the second half on Sunday, Dec. 27, 2015, at Georgia Dome in Atlanta. (Curtis Compton/Atlanta JournalConstitution/TNS).

be consistent and play our style of defense, we’d come out on top.” The Broncos defense came to play on Super Bowl Sunday, holding the Panthers to 315 yards of offense. During the regular season, the Panthers averaged 367 yards of offense. “They just played better than us. I do not know what you want me to say. They made more plays than us, and that is what it comes down to,” Panthers quarterback Cam Newton said in his postgame press conference. After more than a quarter of being shutout, the Panthers offense ﬁnally got on the board when running back Jonathan Stewart leaped over his offensive linemen and ﬂew into the end zone. At halftime, the Broncos led 13-7. For some fans, halftime was the high

Name: Cam Newton Team: Carolina Panthers Born: May 11, 1989 (Age 26) in Atlanta, GA Height: 6’5” Weight: 245 lbs College: Auburn University Drafted: First Round, First Overall Pick (2011) Experience: Fifth NFL Season Career Regular Season Record: 45-32 Career Postseason Record: 3-3 Super Bowl Record: 0-1 Career Passing Yards: 18,263 Career Passing Yards per Game: 234.1 Career Rushing Yards: 3,207 Career Rushing Yards per Game: 41.1 Career Passing Touchdowns: 117 Career Rushing Touchdowns: 43 Career Interceptions: 64

point of the game in a star studded show that featured Coldplay, Bruno Mars, and Beyoncé. Although the third quarter was the lowest scoring, there were still significant plays. Carolina had multiple scoring chances in the quarter, but failed to capitalize on them. On their first drive of the half, the Panthers got to the Broncos’ 26 yard line and was forced to kick. They sent out kicker Graham Gano who missed from 44 yards out. Then, on the next possession, Carolina got to the Broncos’ 28 yard line when Newton threw his first and only interception. The score at the end of the third was 16-7 in Denver’s favor. Early in the fourth, the Panthers put the game within a touchdown on a Gano field goal that made the score 16-10 with just over ten minutes left.

Two possessions later, with the score still 16-10, the Panthers were looking for the go ahead score. With 4:04 to go, Miller came up big again, forcing his second fumble of the game that put the Broncos in the drivers’ seat. Then, several plays later, the Broncos sealed the game when running back CJ Anderson found his way into the end zone for the ﬁnal touchdown. The Panthers tried to battle back, but were unsuccessful. The Broncos emerged Super Bowl Champions, winning 2410. It was a quiet night for Broncos quarterback Peyton Manning, who only had 141 passing yards in what many thought was the ﬁnal game of his career. “I feel very, very grateful,” Manning said. “Obviously, it is very special to cap it off with a win.”

basketball team said. The season began Feb. 10 against when they crushed Jupiter Middle School 33-43. Bak’s second game ended in a close one against Independence, losing 30-34 in overtime. The team is hoping to pick up right where they ended last season, with a big target on their back from other hopeful teams as the defending champs. “We have some tough competition from other teams, we’ll have to work hard together and execute the way Coach Haney wants us to,” Bella Martinez, eighth grade communications major said. With most of the team leaving Bak last year as eighth graders, the current eighth graders will take on the role Photo by Ervin Wiliams of team leaders and plan on showing Eighth graders Nashani Gilbert-Taylor and Cora Gilbert try to save the the new team members the way, and ball against an Independence Middle opponent. The girls went on to teaching them the keys to success. lose the game in overtime, 30-34. “We have a lot of returning veterans By Jacob Schlessel year, the plan is no different. that will be able to help communicate Copy Editor “We are trying to repeat as county to the rookies,” Nashani Gilbertast year, the girls’ basketball champions. We only get better every Taylor, eighth grade point guard said. team went 9-1 and won the day. We want to hang another banner,” In last year’s season, Duncan was county championship. This Ericka Haney, coach of the girls arguably Bak’s biggest rival, and the last

team they had to face before becoming the champs. “Everybody is a rival, nothing is guaranteed. Normally, Duncan is in our division and usually our toughest competitor,” Haney said. Bak’s third game was played against Duncan in which they lost 21-48 despite a solid effort all around. The girls played against HL Watkins where they won, improving their record to 2-2 off of a 17-27 performance. All of Bak’s basketball games begin at 4:30 after school. With new faces joining the team, working as a team is a big part of any team’s chances of success. “The team chemistry is good because we have a solid foundation that is coming back from last year’s championship team. I think that they are teaching the newer players our philosophy of winning,” Haney said. With the new basketball season underway, the Bak girls’ basketball team is working hard on bringing home another banner to hang in the decorated gym.

Girls’ basketball team hopes to repeat last year’s season

Luke Stone Co-Editor-In-Chief

Sports & Clubs

The Portfolio March 2016

Luke Stone Co-Editor-In-Chief

Page 11

Dance Honor Society gives back to community By Ervin Williams Technology Editor n addition to dedication to all things dance, the Dance Honor Society strived to give back to the community in various ways. The Dance Honor Society, a schoolrun organization established in 2007, is made up of experienced dancers who helped the community. “The great thing about it is that I not only get to help the dance community, but I also get to help the actual community as well,” Ryan Jaffe, eighth grade dance major and President said. Being accepted into the organization was no “walk in the park” Hollond Schiller, one of the sponsors for the Dance Honor Society said. “When I applied to be a member, I had to ﬁll out a point sheet, which I gained from performing,” Jaffe said. The most important focus of the Dance Honor Society was to “show others that they are not alone” said Alyse Harris, eighth grade dance major and vice-president said.

Photo by Joel Soto

The Dance Honor Society uses their talent to give back to the community in many ways and with good intentions, such as the ﬂash mob for the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation. “We do this because when we dance, our passion can affect one person in a good way,” Alyse Harris, vice president said. Through the Dance Honor Society, the dancers raised awareness for charity and also honored the art of dance at the same time.

“We once did a flash mob for the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation walk for diabetes,” Harris said. “We also held a dance class for kids with autism.” Along with the Dance Honor Society’s involvement in the community, they continued their dance education. “Dancing is an outlet for me, and for many people,” Jaffe said. “It can relieve stress, it keeps you healthy, and you can express passion.” Being a part of the Dance Honor Society not only benefited the community, but also was beneficial to the members of the society. “We receive scholarships and we have guest speakers that help us be more involved and be a part of thing in the dance community,” Jaffe said. One of the dance honor society’s messages was dance was an important part of the art culture, and it “allows students to express themselves,” Schiller said. “We have the power to help others,” Schiller said. “Why don’t we?”

Girls’ soccer wins three out of seven games, tying twice By Sreenidhi Nidamanur Sports Editor ak girls’ soccer team began their season with a win of 7-0 against Howell Watkins on Feb. 2. “The ﬁrst game, against Howell Watkins, was against a team that was undeveloped because the girls on the team were only there for fun,” Amber Mistry, seventh grade, left back said. Six players scored goals during the game, while Watkins scored zero as it was an “unexperienced team,” Stiengenga said. “Sylvia Ng scored two goals, Julianna Booth, Nora El-Abbar, Soﬁe Karbstein, Savannah Lebedecker, and I all scored one goal each,” Steigenga, seventh grade right forward said. The second game of their season was against Independence on Feb. 3 which they lost 2-0.

Articles-Issue 4-Boys BBall

“The team [Independence] mostly consisted of eighth graders who were fast, quick, and knew how to work the ball around the field,” Mistry said. In prior seasons,Independence and Jupiter had a history of being tough opponents. “The best teams are Independence and Jupiter because their players have speed and agility on the ball,” Mistry said. The first game against Watkins “let the team get a feel for the game and how the team had to play to win,” Steigenga said. “My teammates are like family to me both on and off the field,” El-Abbar said. The next game will be on March 3 at Jupiter and the team remains hopeful. Photo by Nikita Tanguturi El-Abbar said, “Every time I step on the field, I feel like I am right where I Determined to score another goal for her team, striker Nora El-Abbar dribbles the ball between the legs of the opposing teams defense belong.” during the Stars’ first game against Howell Watkins, who they beat 7-0.

Boys basketball team struggles to begin season; 0-6 in first games By Luke Stone Co-Editor-In-Chief hrough their first four games of the season, the boys’ basketball team is 0-4, with all four losses by more than 10 points. Although they have struggled early, the team continues to improve. “I do not think that we have played as well as we can so far, but we are definitely improving,” Jordan Juliano, eighth grade shooting guard said. “We played a lot better in our second game than we did in our first game, and we are headed in the right direction.” The team lost their first game of the season on the road against Jupiter 5325. Then, in their home opener, the

Photo by Luke Stone

Eighth graders Jaylen Sanders and Maximus Wagner leap for the rebound against Independence Middle. The Stars went on to lose 49-36 in their ﬁrst home game.

Stars trailed 46-23 at the beginning of the fourth quarter and made a late run and trimmed the lead. But, the team fell short again and lost 49-36. In their third game of the season against Duncan, the Stars suffered their worst loss of the season, falling 48-16. In the Stars’ fourth game of the season against H.L. Watkins, the Stars also fell 54-20. “We need to work on our offensive game,” Alex Haddad, eighth grade power forward said. “We are not shooting a good percentage and that is partially because we are not getting good looks in the paint.” Although Haddad said that they have

difﬁculty on shooting jump shots, he did say that they do well when they do get inside. “I think we play well when we drive to the basket. We have talented point guards on our team who can stretch the defense and get good inside looks,” Haddad said. Head coach Dave Ullom admired his team’s work ethic and character, “This is a good group of guys that work hard and work well together,” Ullom said. “They never have any attitude and do a great job.” The boys suffered a loss against Jupiter on Feb. 26. The last home game will be against Jeaga on March 10.

Articles Issue 5

Luke Stone

Co-Editor-In-Chief

The Portfolio Page 2 Editorial April 2016 Overuse of technology dangerous for society

Articles-Issue 5-Tech Editorial

society lazier physically and mentally. Physically, menial tasks can now be performed by some sort of technological device, and mentally, there is less deep thinking in the world and humans lose the ingenuity that has allowed us to succeed. Calculators are an example of this. Instead of being able to calculate problems in their head, students now rely on calculators and lose the mental capacity for doing problems on paper without calculators, which is required on some standardized tests. Finally, technology allows sensitive information like bank account information and social security numbers to be conveniently stored digitally. With this feature comes a risk of this information being stolen by hackers. While luxuries like Apple Pay on the iPhone may seem convenient and safe because paying with the feature requires a fingerprint, all it takes is for a hacker to steal your phone, find your password, get into a banking app, and they would have control over your finances. Although it may sound overdramatic,

“ Co-Editors-in-Chief Luke Stone Madaleine Rubin

Cartoon by Angela Yan

it that much easier for companies to hire technology in our place. The good news is that there is still time to solve these problems. Use technology less, and your brain more. If you manually do some of the things that technology usually does, companies will have less incentive to use technology instead of people. Also, be more social and outgoing. Put your phone down, go outside, and stop letting technology dominate your daily life.

Murmurs from the Crowd: Why do people use

Rubio to win the state’s primary and deprive Trump of 99 delegates to the Republican National Convention. According to ABC News, nearly $2.5 million were spent against Trump in the United States on March 14, March 15, and March 16. However, the anti-Trump forces were able to score a significant victory in Ohio where Kasich, the current governor of the state, won with 46.8 percent of the vote. Even though Cruz won in Wisconsin on April 5, Trump still led in the delegate count with 743 delegates. Cruz was in second with 517 delegates, and Kasich was in a distant third with 143 delegates. In order to win the nomination on the first ballot at the Republican National Convention, a candidate must have secured at least 1,237 delegates. If no candidate has secured that number, a contested convention ensues, which means that all of the delegates are free to vote for any candidate. Trump has said that if he is denied the nomination unfairly, he will sue the Republican Party. “I think that the Republican leadership, no matter how much they don’t like Trump, needs to respect the decision of the voters,” Lisa Hanser,

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“I think that people use technology a lot because it can connect you to the rest of the world. In the snap of a finger, people can gain access to information that wouldn’t be possible to find without technology. I think that the connectivity and the access is liberating and that’s why people love using technology so much,” Nicolas Ouporov, eighth grade dance major said.

Business Manager Nikita Tanguturi

Entertainment Anushka Lakum

Section Editors: News Angela Yan

Website Editor Jordan Taylor

Photo Editors Lily Gumbinner Ashley Kulberg

Arts & Academics Valentina Gomez

Copy Editor Jacob Schlessel

Features Carlos Trivino

”

Sports & Clubs Sreenidhi Nidamanur Technology Ervin Williams Adviser Jessica Samons

News

social studies teacher said, “If it is supposed to be the party of the people, they need to respect the decision the people have made.” The next contest is scheduled for April 19 in New York where 95 delegates will be up for grabs for the Republicans, and 247 will be at stake for the Democrats.

Although not every state has voted yet, many are saying that this election is unprecedented. “This has been unlike any election I’ve ever seen. Both Democrats and Republicans are angry with what’s going on in Washington,” Hanser said. “That anger is exactly what has allowed Trump and Sanders to thrive.”

engage each other and the audience,” Sandra Tepper, theater teacher, said. “They must create reality in theater.” The showcase took place on March 14, 2016. Students participated in a variety of performances. “I was in the theater history program introduced by Ms. Tepper. We studied primitive, Greek, and medieval theater,” Sunaina Singh, sixth grade theater major, said. Students studied other, more modern aspects of theater as well. “I performed an original reality TV show from Ms. Graham (sixth grade theater teacher)’s class,” Luca Riley, sixth grade theater major, said. Most sixth graders performed in the showcase, and they worked on their pieces in their theater electives. They also learned more about the art itself, such as the history of theater. “I learned that theater didn’t just rise up forty years ago,” Singh said. “It ranged in popularity over the years.” completely moveable. It was pieced together with Velcro so the look could be changed. “The LED lights reflect off the set. There are four different lights that randomly change colors,” Megan Fenton, eighth grade communications major said. Students on the announcements have experience with virtual sets by using the green screen, and now they have the chance to be able to work with a hard, professional set. “Most schools have gone to virtual sets but the students picked this set. We researched it in our television

Students are taught to learn from their mistakes in order to better their performance skills. “[The students] perform their monologues in front of me and I critique their classwork,” Tepper said. Some believe the most important part of theater is creating versatile characters that are believable and entertaining. Students worked on creating their characters the weeks before the showcase. “In class, we made up characters,” Riley said. “We played with them for a few weeks through improv games.” No matter what students performed, the showcase expanded their knowledge of theater, and let them show off what they had learned to their parents, teachers, and peers. “We prepared in class and memorized everything. We wrote all of our scripts and performed in front of our teachers,” Singh said. “It was an amazing experience.” production class and we narrowed it down to three options. This is the one they chose for the year. Now the students know how to work with hard sets and virtual sets, like what we use for feature reports with the green screen,” Owens said. The new set has given the eighth grade announcements students the opportunity to work with equipment that they can use in their future career. It also helps students personalize the show and make it their own. Ibarra said, “I think that it looks professional and I am glad that we got it before I leave Bak.”

Annual theater showcase gives sixth graders chance to perform

technology so frequently?

“I think that kids use technology a lot these days because you can use technology for pretty much anything. It is a place where you can find everything. You can use it for anything from an outlet for expression to a place to find information. Technology is very versatile,” Anamaria Navarrete, eighth grade communications major said.

The Portfolio Staff:

By Luke Stone Co-Editor-In-Chief nd then there were five. After more than one month in to the 2016 Presidential Primaries, the once twenty four candidate field has been narrowed down to businessman Donald Trump, Sen. Ted Cruz, and Gov. John Kasich on the Republican side, and Sec. Hillary Clinton and Sen. Bernie Sanders on the Democratic side. On March 15, 2016, both Democratic and Republican primaries were held in in Florida. Clinton won by more than thirty points on the Democratic side. On the Republican side, Trump won with 45.7 percent of the vote. Sen. Marco Rubio, a Florida native, came in second with 27 percent of the vote. After his double digit defeat, Rubio suspended his campaign. “And so while it is not God’s plan that I be president in 2016 or maybe ever, and while today my campaign is suspended, the fact that I have even come this far is evidence of how special America truly is, and all the reason more why we must do all we can to ensure that this nation remains a special place,” Rubio said in his concession speech. Rubio’s loss was unsettling to anti-Trump forces who hoped for

almost everyone is affected by this. If we have massive unemployment problems because of technology, people will obviously be out of work and they will not have a sufficient amount of money for basic things like buying food, paying water bills, and paying a rent or a mortgage. Also, a study from Ohio State University found that more crimes are committed when wages are low and unemployment is high. Because there is so much technology to perform tasks, humanity becomes lazier and less ambitious which makes

The Portfolio April 2016

Trump loses in Wisconsin, faces steeper path to securing 1,237 delegates needed to clinch Republican nomination

Articles-Issue 5-Primaries Update

everal years ago, Apple released a marketing campaign, in which the main message was, “There’s an app for that.” As more apps and hardware for everyday tasks are developed, humanity begins to become more and more reliant on technology. From creating the wheel to creating the printing press, human ingenuity has allowed humanity to prosper for thousands and thousands of years. Our reliance on technology paves the way for massive unemployment, makes society lazier, and makes digital information less secure. First of all, technology can cause massive unemployment worldwide. According to CNN, technology will take five million jobs by 2020. That is only four years from now. If tech companies continue to develop products that take jobs away from people, there will be more and more unemployment. Take Google’s self-driving car for example. Once the vehicle becomes street legal, taxi drivers across America will lose their jobs because technology can do them cheaper and more efficiently. Additionally, technology makes

Page 4

Photo by Ashley Kuhlberg

As the curtains rise, a group of sixth grade students perform a Greek theater piece. They earned critiques at school so that they could perfect their works at home.

By Ashley Kulberg Photo Editor tudents stood offstage, silently running through their monologues while adjusting

Morning announcements set

Continued from page 1 By Lily Gumbinner Photo Editor he set was custom built to match the anchor desk “I was there when we got the new set because I am Ms. Owens’ student aide. The semi-truck arrived around 3:10 and I came by later on during an afterschool activity around 5:15 and it was almost done being set up. It took a couple hours to set it up,” Brooke Ibarra, eighth grade communications major, said. The students on the morning

their costumes. The lights dimmed, marking the beginning of the sixth grade theater showcase. “In a good theater piece, actors must announcements had been waiting for over a year for the set to arrive. They fund-raised to buy it last year when they were in television production. “I funded it through the care packages last year. That money was set aside, and I used it to buy [the set] over the summer,” Owens said. “We modernized the new set and the control room with new computers and software. We wanted things that they can use in the real industry.” The new set also had many uses besides being a background for the anchors. It could be used for credits, opens, and packages. It was also

Luke Stone

Co-Editor-In-Chief

The Portfolio Page 2 Editorial May 2016 finds that more than three quarters College Preparedness:Research of college freshmen not prepared for college

Articles-Issue 6-College Editorial

Articles Issue 6

he early bird gets the worm. This common cliché is applied to every life situation, but what it really means is that if someone is the first to act, they will reap the rewards. The phrase also applies to college preparedness, as those who prepare for their educational future early are often rewarded with admission to the university of their choice. The problem is that students do not receive enough help from their schools to prepare for college, and they are not taking the initiative to plan for college themselves. According to Follow the Money Daily, four out of five college students pursuing a math or science degree feel that their kindergarten through twelfth grade education did not sufficiently prepare them for college. The site also says that three out of four college freshmen are not prepared for college. Approximately a month and a half ago, high school acceptance letters were handed out to magnet schools across the county, and students were given their course selection sheets. Any well prepared students would use these course selection sheets to choose courses that will help them be accepted into their dream college or university like Advanced Placement (AP) classes, International Baccalaureate (IB) courses, etc.

However, preparing for college does not only fall onto the students’ shoulders, it also rests on their parents’, as financial planning for college is of extreme importance Although getting into a good college is getting more difficult, being able to pay for it is a whole other story. Well-prepared parents will assist their child’s ability to pay by enrolling in programs like Florida Prepaid College Savings Plan, which is very flexible. Even if you decide to attend an out-ofstate or private school, they transfer an amount equal to what would be paid to the Florida school the plan is designed

for, and all that parents have to do is pay the difference in tuition. Additionally, enrollment in programs like the Jack Kent Cooke Foundation will allow parents to rest easy, knowing that their child’s college is entirely or mostly paid for, and allow students to know that there is no limit to where they can receive a college degree. Both students and parents are affected by the lack of preparedness, as unprepared students will have a much narrower selection of schools to choose from if they wait too long, and parents are affected by the ﬁnancial burden of paying for college. Prepared

Cartoon by Angela Yan

students are also affected because they will be a leg up when it comes to choosing their college. The good news is that the issue is an easy ﬁx. If you have not begun any preparation for college, begin to do so by researching scholarships and payment options on the ﬁnancial side, and begin preparing high school courses to help you get into good schools on the academic side. Also, take advantage of college counseling in high school so that you are not blindsided by the prospect of college in your junior year.

Murmurs from the Crowd:

“How has your middle school experience prepared you for higher education?”

The Portfolio Staff: Co-Editors-in-Chief Luke Stone Madaleine Rubin Photo Editors Lily Gumbinner Ashley Kulberg Copy Editor Jacob Schlessel Business Manager Nikita Tanguturi

“I haven’t had that much preparation for high school, only one teacher has really talked about it with us. No one here has been that helpful with preparing me for high school or college. In order to prepare us for either level, high school or college, teachers need to begin to act more like high school teachers and let us be accountable for doing things on our own,” Nicolas Barrios, eighth grade theater major said.

“Yes, my teachers have helped me prepare by giving me a large amount of homework to prepare me for what will come in high school. Also, my teachers have given me more responsibility for this year by assigning projects and holding us accountable if we miss due dates. I have done some preparation for college by visiting several college campuses around the country,” Eddie Force, eighth grade theater major said.

Section Editors: News Angela Yan

Website Editor Jordan Taylor

Arts & Academics Valentina Gomez Features Carlos Trivino Entertainment Anushka Lakum

Sports & Clubs Sreenidhi Nidamanur Technology Ervin Williams Adviser Jessica Samons

Luke Stone

Co-Editor-In-Chief

Check out the food review on Palm Beach County’s best doughnuts on page 6.

The

We have our own website! Check cial us out at Spe ge www.PortfolioNews.org a p 16 on! i edit

Portfolio

www.PortfolioNews.org

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Page 6

News.......................................1 & 4 Editorial.....................................2 Opinion.................................3 Entertainment.......................6 & 7 Features..................................8 & 9 Sports and Clubs..........10 & 11 Technology...........................12 & 13 Arts and Academics...........14 & 15 Student Life...................................16

By Luke Stone Co-Editor-In-Chief ccording to Smithsonian Magazine, the ring-shaped doughnut was invented in 1847 aboard a lime trading ship by Hanson Gregory, after modifying his mother Elizabeth’s recipe. Since then, the recipe has been replicated and refined by large companies like Dunkin’ Donuts, Krispy Kreme, and Entenmann’s. However, many smaller, family run vendors have also opened around the country, offering fresher doughnuts. In order to determine which doughnut was better, I went to three stores, “Dunkin’ Donuts,” “Publix,” and “Jupiter Donut Factory,” bought doughnuts and judged them on taste, texture, and size. The experience at Dunkin’ Donuts was mediocre. I ordered a glazed doughnut to keep things simple. The doughnut was better than I had expected. Although it was clearly jacked with preservatives, it still had a sweet flavor. However, the doughnut did not have that same feel that most fresh doughnuts have. I give Dunkin’ Donuts three and a half stars out of five stars.

Sunfest headlines major performers Concert event draws in hundreds of thousands of fans

By Luke Stone Co-Editor-in-Chief very year around the first week of May, people from across the nation come together on Flagler Drive in downtown West Palm Beach to attend South Florida’s largest annual music festival, SunFest. “I’ve worked for SunFest since 1990 and the event today is very unlike the event of the eighties and nineties,” Paul Jamieson, SunFest’s executive director since 1996 said. “Back then, it was more of a community festival with a focus on many different things, and now it’s become a national festival that focuses primarily on music.” Since its founding in 1982, SunFest has grown, with this year’s event (from April 27- May 1) featuring 50 bands across three stages with a total attendance of approximately 175 thousand people.

Photo courtesy of Allen Eyestone/Palm Beach Post

ith social media growing more prevalent among today’s youth, Internet privacy on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter becomes more and more of an issue in daily lives. The Internet provided users with a false sense of anonymity and security, resulting in people disclosing more information than they would in real life.

Additionally, always verify if a friend or acquaintance’s account is real before sending them private messages. It may seem like people only make fake accounts for celebrities, but it is more widespread than that. Hackers have used fake accounts to embarrass the real person or steal their identity for financial gain. Security In-a-Box recommended social media users to never feel pressured to accept follow requests from strangers. Some of these strangers seem harmless,

but they may be using posted pictures to target or stalk users. USA Today suggested creating different passwords for every social media platform. Otherwise, once someone hacks into one account, they can then access all other accounts. There is no avoiding being exposed to social media today, but there are essential steps to staying safe online, such as being careful about posting pictures and friending users.

‘I am very humbled to be part of such a fantastic team,’ Narinesingh says By Lily Gumbinner Photo Editor s the current assistant principal, Robert Bauer, plans his retirement, Terrence Narinesingh, Ed. S. steps up to take the position. “The opportunity presented itself because one of the current assistant principals is retiring. I saw this as a chance to share what I know with the stakeholders here at Bak and to work with the students,” Narinesingh said. Narinesingh started teaching in 2006 as a high school science teacher. He was then promoted to instructional specialist, assistant principal, and adjunct professor of Educational Leadership at Barry University. “I started as a teacher at John I.

Leonard High School. After that, I was promoted to the district office as part of an administrative team to improve student achievement. Most recently, I was an administrator in Area 1 that helped student achievement with a combo of middle and high School students,” Narinesingh said. “I formerly taught earth-space science, biology, and chemistry. I have an undergraduate degree in biology and a master’s degree in student achievement and leadership.” Not only does Narinesingh get lots of support from the Bak staff, his family has also inspired him in his educational career. “I became an administrator because my sister was a teacher and my father is

also currently a math teacher, so they inspired me to be an administrator,” Narinesingh said. “I am able to impact student achievement in a bigger perspective.” Although his first day was a learning experience trying to get acclimated to the campus, Narinesingh said that, “Everyone has been very supportive. I feel like I am part of a family.” “Bak is very reputable in terms of having honorable students and a great staff. I wanted to have the challenge of working in an art school. I am very humbled to be a part of such a fantastic team.” Narinesingh said, “I look forward to working with everyone and being a part of a great team here at Bak.”

Photo courtesy of Narinesingh

Aside from being an administrator, Narinesingh loves to write short stories and poetry. He is also involved with Dachshund rescue.

At Publix, I ordered a chocolate frosted doughnut that were sweet and tasted relatively fresh. They had a great texture—not too chewy and hard, but not too soft. However, there was still one aspect that was a bit disappointing. The frosting

By Nikita Tanguturi Business Manager tarring Chris Hemsworth as the Huntsman, and Charlize Theron as the Queen, “The Huntsman: Winters War,” came out April 22, but this movie did not quite meet its expectation. Receiving a sixteen percent on Rotten Tomatoes, and opening to $7.3 million, it fell way behind Disney’s “The Jungle Book.” I felt that the movie did not meet the expectations set for it, or its $115 million budget. The graphics were okay, and seemed cheesy at a few scenes such as when the goblins attacked the Huntsman and Sara (Jessica Chastain) the concept behind those scenes were great because the attacks fit in well with the plot of the movie, but the final

Sunfest

Continued on page 4

Articles-Issue 6-Donut Review

Articles-Issue 6-SunFest

According to the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, this proved to be dangerous because hackers could use this information to stalk someone or deliver spam. According to Network World, social security numbers, birthdays, home addresses, phone numbers, and credit card information should be kept private. Some sites may have options to limit this information to a select group of people, so always check the sites’ privacy settings.

Photo by Luke Stone

Jupiter Donut Factory makes their doughnuts fresh every day at each of their five locations in Jupiter, North Palm Beach, Stuart, Boynton Beach, and Royal Palm Beach. They offer a variety of specialty doughnuts, including ones with red velvet, chocolate, and blueberry cake batter.

did not have a good consistency. It was far too runny and liquid for my liking. But it was still a flavorful and delicious frosting, had a good taste, so it earns a four out of five stars. The final place I went to was Jupiter Donut. The doughnuts were easily

the freshest, best tasting doughnuts compared to Dunkin’ Donuts and Publix. They were sweet, flavorful, and had the perfect texture. Because of its fresh, sweet, and exotic doughnuts, I give Jupiter Donut Factory five out of five stars.

‘The Huntsman’ puts new spin on Snow White outcome

Protecting personal information on social media reduces risk, harm By Angela Yan News Editor

Entertainment

Family-run doughnut shops better than larger chains

May 2016 * Volume 19 * Issue 6 * Bak Middle School of the Arts * 1725 Echo Lake Drive * West Palm Beach, Florida 33407

Duran Duran’s lead singer Simon LeBon performs on the Ford Stage at SunFest on Wednesday, April 27, 2016. The band will go on tour in America this summer, with performances scheduled in Tennessee, Illinois, and Massachusetts.

The Portfolio May 2016

Photo courtesy of Tribune News Service

“The Huntsman: Winter’s War.” (Universal Pictures)

product was poorly executed. Also, the movies relation to Snow White did not make sense. The narrator at the beginning states that the movie was set “the time before Snow White,” but at the end shows Snow White and her kingdom. It also shows that the queen whom Snow White destroyed, is still alive even though she had died in the original movie. The costuming was amazing, as was the makeup, but sometimes did not fit the mood of the scene. Even if it more than less likely took hours to do on set, such as Freya’s war makeup, it did not help convey the message. Even though the movie was rated PG-13, there was a few scenes that would not be considered appropriate, such as the scene in the hot tub after a battle, for a 13-year-old watching this

movie with their friends. The plot, even though it had a few holes, was very well thought out, but some lines did not make sense. For example, the scene between Eric (Chris Hemsworth) and Sarah (Jessica Chastain) in the cottage after they meet again was confusing, and Eric’s lines were hard to follow. The movie vaguely reminded me of “Frozen”, but with a different ending. Freya (Emily Blunt) a mirror of Elsa, putting two sisters against each other for love, and confusing plot twists all gave the entire movie a more childish, “Frozen” like vibe. Overall, I would rate the movie a two and a half out of five stars, due to some shortcomings throughout the film, but I would go see it if you liked “Frozen”, and have never seen Snow White.

‘The Jungle Book’ allows viewers to experience jungle life By Anushka Lakum Entertainment Editor irected by Jon Favreau, Disney’s animation “The Jungle Book” hit theaters on April 15, 2016. The film grossed $103 million during its opening weekend. The movie was based on the classic tales written by Rudyard Kipling, and starts out with a shot of Mowgli, (Neel Sethi), a “man-cub” running through the jungle. Mowgli was found in a cave when he was an infant, and taken in by the wolves. The movie is about Mowgli’s journey through the jungle with his friends

Baloo, the bear (voiced by Bill Murray), and Bagheera, the panther (voiced by Ben Kingsley). One of the best parts of the movie is when Mowgli helped a baby elephant get out of a ditch. When Mowgli lived with the wolves, the pack leader didn’t approve of Mowgli’s “tricks,” because whatever he did was not the wolves’ way to do it. Mowgli gets the elephant out using his tricks, and that was a turning point in the movie, as his tricks were now being accepted. In the past, many other directors had remade Kipling’s books as well. For example, in Walt Disney’s 1967 version,

the animals looked very cartoonish and childlike. In this movie, however, even though it was an animation, the animals looked and spoke realistically. This was thanks to the new computer generated imagery (CGI) technology. In the movie, there were many musical scenes in which characters sprung up in song. There were three songs called “Trust in Me.” “The Bare Necessities,” and “I Wan’na Be Like You.” “The Jungle Book,” was a wonderful movie, with just enough musical moments, bright colors, and happy Photo courtesy of Tribune News Service tones to make it an amazing film. I rate The Jungle Book. (Walt Disney it a five out of five stars. Studios)

Luke Stone

Co-Editor-In-Chief

Page 10

The Portfolio December 2015

Arts & Academics

Students put knowledge to real world events in Washington By Ervin Williams Technology Editor

11.

Photo by Luke Stone

Chorale to broadcast on The Education Network this December

Photos-Issue 2- Washington DC Trip

Photos Issue 2

tudents in the eighth grade went on a Social studies trip to Washington DC. from Nov. 7 -

teacher, said. “For those who do, this have felt stressed or worried. Lacie Michaelis, seventh grade vocal experience will help them get over their major, said, “Of course I’m nervous. nerves when on stage.” The holiday special will air in I want to do well and looking terrbile December, and anyone can tune in to in front of the audience is my worst nightmare.” watch and listen “This opportunity to Chorale as exposes them to the they sing songs This opportunity such as “Deck behind-the-scenes the Halls” and exposes them to the part of a production. “Here We Come behind-the-scenes They will get to see producers and A-Caroling,” really learn how that Rachel Robinson, part of production.” seventh grade industry works,” theater major, said. Taylor said. “It’s good publicity for the school and Though it may have been challenging music department. People from the for students not to get nervous or community will really get to experience worried while preparing for this event, what Bak can really do,” Taylor said. many felt that what mattered most was This was the initial year that the that they performed to their best ability. school of the arts was chosen to Taylor said, “Ultimately, I want their perform in the special. It was a huge friends and family to see their success honor, according to Taylor, but many and be proud of what the students students performing in this event may have done.”

“

Photo by Ashley Kulberg

With perfect pitch, Chorale prepares to be filmed for the Education Network’s (T.E.N.) Holiday Special. T.E.N. is the official television station for The School District of Palm Beach County.

By Ashley Kulberg Photo Editor

Rozanski: We were very well prepared, familiar with testing By Madaleine Rubin Co Editor In Chief

Achievement Levels, been voted on and levels 3 and and given final approval by the above are considered This preparation, state legislature,” proficient. Sally Rozanski, coupled with the hard “In January, once school principal, the cut-scores work of the students are approved, said. In previous and staff, resulted in Achievement Levels years, students each student should high academic achieving for received scores be determined,” ranging from scores.” Rozanski said. one through Parents, students, five, one being and teachers received the lowest possible score and five the percentage scores through an Individual highest. These scores are known as FSA Student Report on Nov. 9.

“

Luke Stone

Co-Editor-In-Chief

Sports & Clubs

The Portfolio March 2016

Page 11

Dance Honor Society gives back to community By Ervin Williams Technology Editor n addition to dedication to all things dance, the Dance Honor Society strived to give back to the community in various ways. The Dance Honor Society, a schoolrun organization established in 2007, is made up of experienced dancers who helped the community. “The great thing about it is that I not only get to help the dance community, but I also get to help the actual community as well,” Ryan Jaffe, eighth grade dance major and President said. Being accepted into the organization was no “walk in the park” Hollond Schiller, one of the sponsors for the Dance Honor Society said. “When I applied to be a member, I had to fill out a point sheet, which I gained from performing,” Jaffe said. The most important focus of the Dance Honor Society was to “show others that they are not alone” said Alyse Harris, eighth grade dance major and vice-president said.

Girls’ soccer wins three out of seven games, tying twice By Sreenidhi Nidamanur Sports Editor ak girls’ soccer team began their season with a win of 7-0 against Howell Watkins on Feb. 2. “The first game, against Howell Watkins, was against a team that was undeveloped because the girls on the team were only there for fun,” Amber Mistry, seventh grade, left back said. Six players scored goals during the game, while Watkins scored zero as it was an “unexperienced team,” Stiengenga said. “Sylvia Ng scored two goals, Julianna Booth, Nora El-Abbar, Sofie Karbstein, Savannah Lebedecker, and I all scored one goal each,” Steigenga, seventh grade right forward said. The second game of their season was against Independence on Feb. 3 which they lost 2-0.

Photos-Issue 4-Boys Basketball Photo

Photos Issue 4

Photo by Joel Soto

The Dance Honor Society uses their talent to give back to the community in many ways and with good intentions, such as the flash mob for the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation. “We do this because when we dance, our passion can affect one person in a good way,” Alyse Harris, vice president said. Through the Dance Honor Society, the dancers raised awareness for charity and also honored the art of dance at the same time.

“We once did a flash mob for the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation walk for diabetes,” Harris said. “We also held a dance class for kids with autism.” Along with the Dance Honor Society’s involvement in the community, they continued their dance education. “Dancing is an outlet for me, and for many people,” Jaffe said. “It can relieve stress, it keeps you healthy, and you can express passion.” Being a part of the Dance Honor Society not only benefited the community, but also was beneficial to the members of the society. “We receive scholarships and we have guest speakers that help us be more involved and be a part of thing in the dance community,” Jaffe said. One of the dance honor society’s messages was dance was an important part of the art culture, and it “allows students to express themselves,” Schiller said. “We have the power to help others,” Schiller said. “Why don’t we?”

“The team [Independence] mostly consisted of eighth graders who were fast, quick, and knew how to work the ball around the field,” Mistry said. In prior seasons,Independence and Jupiter had a history of being tough opponents. “The best teams are Independence and Jupiter because their players have speed and agility on the ball,” Mistry said. The first game against Watkins “let the team get a feel for the game and how the team had to play to win,” Steigenga said. “My teammates are like family to me both on and off the field,” El-Abbar said. The next game will be on March 3 at Jupiter and the team remains hopeful. Photo by Nikita Tanguturi El-Abbar said, “Every time I step on the field, I feel like I am right where I Determined to score another goal for her team, striker Nora El-Abbar dribbles the ball between the legs of the opposing teams defense belong.” during the Stars’ first game against Howell Watkins, who they beat 7-0.

Boys basketball team struggles to begin season; 0-6 in first games By Luke Stone Co-Editor-In-Chief hrough their first four games of the season, the boys’ basketball team is 0-4, with all four losses by more than 10 points. Although they have struggled early, the team continues to improve. “I do not think that we have played as well as we can so far, but we are definitely improving,” Jordan Juliano, eighth grade shooting guard said. “We played a lot better in our second game than we did in our first game, and we are headed in the right direction.” The team lost their first game of the season on the road against Jupiter 5325. Then, in their home opener, the

Photo by Luke Stone

Eighth graders Jaylen Sanders and Maximus Wagner leap for the rebound against Independence Middle. The Stars went on to lose 49-36 in their first home game.

difficulty on shooting jump shots, he did say that they do well when they do get inside. “I think we play well when we drive to the basket. We have talented point guards on our team who can stretch the defense and get good inside looks,” Haddad said. Head coach Dave Ullom admired his team’s work ethic and character, “This is a good group of guys that work hard and work well together,” Ullom said. “They never have any attitude and do a great job.” The boys suffered a loss against Jupiter on Feb. 26. The last home game will be against Jeaga on March 10.

Luke Stone

Co-Editor-In-Chief

Page 6

The Portfolio May 2016

Entertainment

Family-run doughnut shops better than larger chains By Luke Stone Co-Editor-In-Chief ccording to Smithsonian Magazine, the ring-shaped doughnut was invented in 1847 aboard a lime trading ship by Hanson Gregory, after modifying his mother Elizabeth’s recipe. Since then, the recipe has been replicated and refined by large companies like Dunkin’ Donuts, Krispy Kreme, and Entenmann’s. However, many smaller, family run vendors have also opened around the country, offering fresher doughnuts. In order to determine which doughnut was better, I went to three stores, “Dunkin’ Donuts,” “Publix,” and “Jupiter Donut Factory,” bought doughnuts and judged them on taste, texture, and size. The experience at Dunkin’ Donuts was mediocre. I ordered a glazed doughnut to keep things simple. The doughnut was better than I had expected. Although it was clearly jacked with preservatives, it still had a sweet flavor. However, the doughnut did not have that same feel that most fresh doughnuts have. I give Dunkin’ Donuts three and a half stars out of five stars.

‘The Huntsman’ puts new spin on Snow White outcome By Nikita Tanguturi Business Manager tarring Chris Hemsworth as the Huntsman, and Charlize Theron as the Queen, “The Huntsman: Winters War,” came out April 22, but this movie did not quite meet its expectation. Receiving a sixteen percent on Rotten Tomatoes, and opening to $7.3 million, it fell way behind Disney’s “The Jungle Book.” I felt that the movie did not meet the expectations set for it, or its $115 million budget. The graphics were okay, and seemed cheesy at a few scenes such as when the goblins attacked the Huntsman and Sara (Jessica Chastain) the concept behind those scenes were great because the attacks fit in well with the plot of the movie, but the final

Photos-Issue 6-Doughnut Review

Photos Issue 6

Photo by Luke Stone

Photo courtesy of Tribune News Service

“The Huntsman: Winter’s War.” (Universal Pictures)

Luke Stone

Co-Editor-In-Chief

Page 2

Editorial

The Portfolio October 2015

Transportation Disaster

Shortage of drivers, poorly designed routes cause delays across county

Cartoon by Angela Yan

Murmurs from the Crowd ‘How did transportation issues at the start of this year affect you?’

Layouts-Issue 1-Page 2 Editorial

Layout Issue 1

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The Portfolio Staff:

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Co-Editors-in-Chief Luke Stone Madaleine Rubin Photo Editors Lily Gumbinner Ashley Kulberg Copy Editor Jacob Schlessel Business Manager Nikita Tanguturi

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Section Editors: News Angela Yan Arts & Academics Valentina Gomez Features Carlos Trivino

Website Editor Jordan Taylor

Adviser Jessica Samons Entertainment Anushka Lakum

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Sports & Clubs Sreenidhi Nidamanur Technology Ervin Williams

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“My bus was always showing up late and I was constantly missing lessons during my ﬁrst or second period classes,” Aditya Jadvani, eighth grade communications major said.

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Luke Stone

Co-Editor-In-Chief

Page 12

The Portfolio December 2015

Advertising

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Layout Issue 2

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The Portfolio

www.portfolionews.org December 2015 * Volume 19 * Issue 2 * West Palm Beach, Florida 33407

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Our Smiles are a work of ART! PALM BEACH GARDENS 2517 Burns Road Palm Beach Gardens, FL 33410 Ph: 561‐775‐7999

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Layouts-Issue 2-Cover Page

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Go to page 10 to learn more about the Washington, D.C. trip

Luke Stone

Co-Editor-In-Chief

Page 2

Editorial

Some Bak MSOA staff, students do not appreciate arts enough

ak MSOA: Bak Middle School of the Arts. The keyword in that statement is “Arts”. Unfortunately, the sad reality is that staff and students at our school do not support the arts. The Portfolio staff believes that everyone at Bak should appreciate and support the arts because after all, it is why we are here. Out of 20 students surveyed, 90 percent of them thought that their major was not appreciated. This is a significant problem because the arts is what brought us all together here. Additionally, 95 percent of students thought that Bak needed to showcase the arts more often. Although 70 percent of students felt that the annual Artsgiving event helped them appreciate the arts more, 90 percent of them thought that the school could do more than Artsgiving. Also, 80 percent of students felt they do not go to enough performances and only 40 percent of students said their teachers regularly took them. Once again, these statistics circle back to the fact that the arts are not being showcased enough at the school. On top of all of this, 55 percent of students surveyed admitted that

Cartoon by Angela Yan

a music concert, a dance performance, a visual showcase, a play in theater, or producing a publication. There are several ways to fix the problem. First of all, the school can require teachers to take their students to some performances. Is missing out on an hour and a half of geometry, language arts, science, or history really going to affect students fifteen years

Murmurs from the Crowd: Artsgiving 2015

Layouts-Issue 3-Page 2 Editorial

Layout Issue 3

The Portfolio February 2016

Copy Editor Jacob Schlessel

Features Editor Carlos Trivino

Co-Editor-In-Chiefs Madaleine Rubin Luke Stone Photo Editor(s)

Business Manager Nikita Tanguturi Section Editors:

Lily Gumbinner

News Editor

Ashley Kulberg

Angela Yan

Sports Editor Sreenidhi Nidamanur Arts and Academics Editor Valentina Gomez Technology Editor

Website Editor Jordan Taylor

Entertainment Editor

Ervin Williams

Anushka Lakum Adviser Jessica Samons

The Portfolio Policy Statement Published six times a year, the student newspaper of Bak Middle School of the Arts is a public forum, with its student editorial board making all decision concerning its content and unsigned editorials. letters to the editor are welcomed and will be published as space allows. Letters may be signed, although the staff may withhold names on request. The editor reserves the right to edit letters for grammar and clarity, and all letters are subject to laws governing obscene, libel, privacy and disruption of the school process as all are contents. Opinions in the letter are not necessarily those of the staff nor should any opinion expressed in a forum be construed as the opinion or policy of the administration unless so attributed Six issues published by Sun Coast Press Members of the NSPA/JEA Bak Middle School of the Arts 1725 Echo Lake Drive West Palm Beach, Florida 33407 (561) 882-3870 *Fax (561) 882-3879

Luke Stone

Co-Editor-In-Chief

Page 2

The Portfolio March 2016

Editorial

needs an experienced politician 2016 Election: America in the Oval Office for the next four years

Layouts-Issue 4-Page 2 Editorial

Layout Issue 4

mmigration, terrorism, gun violence, and the national deficit are just some of the key issues that presidential candidates from both parties have been debating for months. As voters across the country begin to cast their primary ballots, they must ask themselves, “Which candidate is most fit to lead our country?” The 2016 election is arguably the most important one of this century because it will determine the country’s future. This staff believes that the country needs to elect a politician who has experience holding high public office and not an amateur politician like outspoken real-estate mogul Donald Trump. This country does not have time for a President to spend his first term in office learning the ropes of basic American politics, and needs a President who can come into office and deliver almost immediate solutions. Trump is not the answer now and never will be. He has no foreign policy experience, no experience in public office, and his “solutions” to America’s problems are un-Republican, unAmerican, and some of them are downright unconstitutional. For example, building a wall on the southern border of the United States is an asinine notion that will ruin U.S. relations with Mexico. Banning Muslims from immigrating to the U.S. clearly violates the First Amendment right to freedom of religion.

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Cartoon by Angela Yan

will determine what the country does about tax rates, healthcare, the national deficit, and foreign policy. The American people are too fixated on Trump, and it was shown that he is clearly not the answer. He is an example of why this election is important-just the fact that he is the leading candidate in polls shows that Americans no longer trust their representatives to do what is in their best interest. It is time to bridge the trust between the American people and the federal government by electing a candidate with experience, like Florida Sen. Marco Rubio who can put the country back on track.

Murmurs from the Crowd: Thoughts on potential Presidential nominees

I think that Hillary Clinton is the best candidate because she has the best ideas on how to run the country. Republicans think her ideas are crazy, but they are similar to the ideas that run government in Europe. And those countries seem to function just fine,” Thomas Fontaine, eighth grade communications major said.

The Portfolio Staff:

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Co-Editors-in-Chief Luke Stone Madaleine Rubin

Although Rubio is young, he has gained valuable experience in his short time in politics. He served as the Florida House of Representatives Majority Leader, the Speaker of The Florida House of Representatives, and is now nearing the end of his first term in the United States Senate. In the Senate, he has served on the Foreign Relations Committee, the Select Committee on Intelligence, and the Small Business and Entrepreneurship Committee. On these Congressional committees, he has learned skills he will be able to apply if he is the next President in the Oval Office.

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Business Manager Nikita Tanguturi

Entertainment Anushka Lakum

Section Editors: News Angela Yan

Website Editor Jordan Taylor

Photo Editors Lily Gumbinner Ashley Kulberg

Arts & Academics Valentina Gomez

Copy Editor Jacob Schlessel

Features Carlos Trivino

Sports & Clubs Sreenidhi Nidamanur Technology Ervin Williams Adviser Jessica Samons

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Luke Stone

Co-Editor-In-Chief

The Portfolio Page 2 Editorial April 2016 Overuse of technology dangerous for society

Layouts-Issue 5-Page 2 Editorial

Layout Issue 5

Co-Editors-in-Chief Luke Stone Madaleine Rubin

Cartoon by Angela Yan

Murmurs from the Crowd: Why do people use

“ The Portfolio Staff:

technology so frequently?

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Business Manager Nikita Tanguturi

Entertainment Anushka Lakum

Section Editors: News Angela Yan

Website Editor Jordan Taylor

”

Photo Editors Lily Gumbinner Ashley Kulberg

Arts & Academics Valentina Gomez

Copy Editor Jacob Schlessel

Features Carlos Trivino

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Sports & Clubs Sreenidhi Nidamanur Technology Ervin Williams Adviser Jessica Samons

Luke Stone

Co-Editor-In-Chief

Page 2

Editorial

Some Bak MSOA staff, students do not appreciate arts enough

ak MSOA: Bak Middle School of the Arts. The keyword in that statement is “Arts”. Unfortunately, the sad reality is that staff and students at our school do not support the arts. The Portfolio staff believes that everyone at Bak should appreciate and support the arts because after all, it is why we are here. Out of 20 students surveyed, 90 percent of them thought that their major was not appreciated. This is a significant problem because the arts is what brought us all together here. Additionally, 95 percent of students thought that Bak needed to showcase the arts more often. Although 70 percent of students felt that the annual Artsgiving event helped them appreciate the arts more, 90 percent of them thought that the school could do more than Artsgiving. Also, 80 percent of students felt they do not go to enough performances and only 40 percent of students said their teachers regularly took them. Once again, these statistics circle back to the fact that the arts are not being showcased enough at the school. On top of all of this, 55 percent of students surveyed admitted that

Cartoon by Angela Yan

Murmurs from the Crowd: Artsgiving 2015

Layouts-Issue 6-Page 2 Editorial

Layout Issue 6

The Portfolio February 2016

Copy Editor Jacob Schlessel

Features Editor Carlos Trivino

Co-Editor-In-Chiefs Madaleine Rubin Luke Stone Photo Editor(s)

Business Manager Nikita Tanguturi Section Editors:

Lily Gumbinner

News Editor

Ashley Kulberg

Angela Yan

Sports Editor Sreenidhi Nidamanur Arts and Academics Editor Valentina Gomez Technology Editor

Website Editor Jordan Taylor

Entertainment Editor

Ervin Williams

Anushka Lakum Adviser Jessica Samons

The Portfolio Policy Statement Published six times a year, the student newspaper of Bak Middle School of the Arts is a public forum, with its student editorial board making all decision concerning its content and unsigned editorials. letters to the editor are welcomed and will be published as space allows. Letters may be signed, although the staff may withhold names on request. The editor reserves the right to edit letters for grammar and clarity, and all letters are subject to laws governing obscene, libel, privacy and disruption of the school process as all are contents. Opinions in the letter are not necessarily those of the staff nor should any opinion expressed in a forum be construed as the opinion or policy of the administration unless so attributed Six issues published by Sun Coast Press Members of the NSPA/JEA Bak Middle School of the Arts 1725 Echo Lake Drive West Palm Beach, Florida 33407 (561) 882-3870 *Fax (561) 882-3879