The Spartan Chronicle December 2022

STUDENTS PAY TRIBUTE TO MS. GREENFIELD

MCDS remembers Ms. Greenfield’s words of wisdom, positive energy, and acts of kindness

You didn’t need to have a class with Ms. Greenfield to know who she was. Ms. Greenfield was an integral part of campus. She did mountains of work for community service and large school activities. She gave everything she could back to the community by contributing to a variety non-profit organizations and encouraging students to aid others too. Just seeing her in the halls she was always smiling. She was the spark in the machine.

~ Z Loverde

Ms. Alyson Greenfield was a beloved middle school teacher at MCDS Middle School. She was thoughtful, caring and kind.

Ms. Greenfield was very passionate about community service.

One of her many service projects was the Salvation Army’s Angel Tree Program, which has been renamed Alyson’s Angels. Although she is not with us anymore, she will be remembered by every one here at MCDS.

~ Henrique Da Fonte

When I think of Ms. Greenfield, I think of her beautiful smile, reflective of her inner kindness. She always had creative ideas and put students at the center of everything she did. As a parent, I appreciate everything she did for my children as their teacher and in bringing community service and Spartan Spirit activities to the Middle School. As a colleague and friend, I appreciate her honesty, her humility, her thoughtful approach to her work, and her collaborative spirit. Her legacy of kindness reaches far and wide and continues in this community and beyond.

~

Helen Kunde

I didn’t have any classes with her, but I know she was very generous. She was so kind and cheerful. I am really thankful that she organized a lot of things in school like the W.J. Bryan, and Walk with Purpose. She has touched many of our lives and I am so glad she came to MCDS.

~ Andreina Navon Branger

I do remember a time where she showed her kindness to me as a new student during orientation when I was taking the tour around school..

~ Amerie Lexime

Her sweet and calm demeanor is what I will treasure most.

~

Vivian Guefen

I did not have her class, but whenever I walked past her in the hall I would get a good morning and/ or a smile. The events she planned were truly amazing, and she was a great person.

~ Micah Ressler

One of my favorite memories of Ms.Greenfield happened about 3 months ago. She was out of school. It was her son Nate senior night.

She showed up to the field even though im sure she shouldnt have. She said hi to me with the biggest smile on her face and was talking about how she missed school. At halftime when the school honored Nate, she was jumping up and down and yelling. I dont think there was a time that night where she wasnt smiling ear to ear. She was always so joyful and happy.

Marcus Ferrer

I really appreciated it when we went to WJ Brian and she helped the students make paper fish. It was a very nice day and I’m happy that Ms. Greenfield organized it. ~

Valeria Alvarez

Whenever I walked past her in the hallway I would get a good morning and/ or a smile. The events she planned were truly

amazing and she was a great person. She always had a smile on her face when i walked passed her classroom and when i saw her in the halls. The first time I met her was when I had to drop something off in 6th grade. She was so nice and polite.

~ Paloma Starke

Alyson Greenfield (1975-2022)

My favorite memory of Ms.Greenfield is Spirit Week last year. I love the way she organized it. It was so fun and amazing.

~ Alexander Spiegel

CAMPUS HIGHLIGHTS

UPPER SCHOOL THESPIANS WOW MIDDLE SCHOOLERS WITH A TEASER PERFORMANCE

BY ARIEL BORER

On Thursday Dec 1, 2022 the Upper-school theater students put on an amazing performance for the middle school during a special assembly.

They performed monologues, sang, and danced. It was an amazing experience to see the upper-school students showcase their talents.

This was just a sneak peek at the performance they showcased later that night.

Many of the students are in the arts endorsement program and will be

majoring in theatre.

Before the Thanksgiving break, theater students competed at a district composition. This district is one of the hardest and one of the most difficult to beat. MCDS was awarded twenty-five first places, and they were all superiors.

Four student received top distinctions, which is the absolute best you can get. They got perfect scores!

In the last six years, MCDS thespians won 156 superior awards.

After the performance, Ms. Pla

and Karlie Kohler announced the names of middle schooler students who were invited to join upper school drama.

They are: Maia Mandel (President, Lea Denain (VP), Alessio Beltrán, Anita Bruzzi, Arina Petrushina, Caleb Sloan, Carina Kreuter, Dagny Jerles, Eva Jean-Londoño, Jordi Mutchnik, Maddie Buttacavoli, Stella Espenkotter, and Victoria Strauch.

The Jr. Thespian Showcase will be held on Jananuary 9th at 7:00pm in the CFA. Admission will be free.

This year our Middle School Troupe received 2 Top Honors scores (perfect score), 10 Superior scores, and 9 Excellent scores!

Alessio Beltrán, Caleb Sloan, Lucas Storch, Maddie Buttacavoli, Jordi Mutchnik, Arina Petrushina, & Lea Denain received a score of “TOP HONORS” for their Ensemble Acting Performance of Clue!.

Eva Londoño received a score of “TOP HONORS” for her Solo Song!..... and will perform at the State Festival!

Arina Petrushina, Hallie Kassewitz & Anita Bruzzi all received scores of “SUPERIOR” for their Monologue Performances!

Jordi Mutchnik & Lucas Storch received scores of “SUPERIOR” for their Solo Songs!

Lea Denain & Maia Mandel received a score of “SUPERIOR” for their Duet Song!

Caleb Sloan & Alessio Beltrán received a score of “SUPERIOR” for their Duet Song!

Lucas Storch & Hallie Kassewitz received a score of “SUPERIOR” for their Duet Scene!

Maia Mandel & Dagny Jerles received a score of “EXCELLENT” for their Monologue Performances!

Victoria Strauch & Caleb Sloan received scores of “EXCELLENT” for their Solo Songs!

Ashton Michaels & Alex Goense received a score of “EXCELLENT” for their Duet Scene!Dagny Jerles & Stella Espenkotter received a score of “EXCELLENT” for their Duet Scene!

Paulina Diaz-Eusse & Carina Kreuter received a score of “EXCELLENT” for their Duet Song!Maia Mandel, Maddie Buttacavoli & Ashton Michaels received a score of “EXCELLENT” for their Trio Song!

Victoria Strauch, Jordi Mutchnik, Eva Londoño, Stella Espenkotter, Domira Corigliano, & Sofia Gonzalez-Vega received a score of “EXCELLENT” for their Small Group Song!

Ms. Cristina Pla-Guzman addresses the audience

8th graders get invited to join US Thespians

Mackenzie Behlman performed a monologue Rising 8th grade Thespians

Jet Set

Isabela Gabrielli Tangioni sings “On My Own”

FALL MUSIC CONCERT

BY JEREMY SAMEK

On Wednesday, November 16, 2022, Miami Country Day school showcased the musical arts.

Early Band Orchestra, Instruments, Chorus, Concert Band, Jazz Band, and 21 Hearts 1 Beat all played extraordinarily well at our fall music concert.

According to several musicians, they all thought it was an exciting time to be alive.

Jacob Miller, a Concert Band Bass Guitar player said it was “long but exciting” and that his teachers “liked the performance a lot”.

Baltazar Kaplan, a beginning instruments tuba player said “it went very well although I was nervous”.

Benjamin Gomez from Concert Band said “It was fun and the music was good”.

Ari Kleiner, also from Concert Band, stated “I had the time of my life”.

All four players did really well, along with everyone else who worked to bring home an outstanding show. Everyone worked very hard to pull this off, and they delivered.

Mr. Mofsky, Mr. Hart, Ms. Pelletier, and Ms. Alfonso worked extra hard to deliver an outstanding performance to everyone watching.

Mr. Hart was unable to attend due to an illness, so his students stepped up.

SING-A-LONG SNAPSHOTS

Ms. Pelletier leads Early Bird Orchestra

Finale of Lean on Me

Middle school Chorus

21 Hearts 1 Beat playing Johnny B Good

Beginning Instruments

Mr. Fallik with middle school students

ONE SCHOOL EVENT COMMEMORATES VETERANS DAY

BY BECKETT GROWNEY

Miami Country Day School celebrated Veterans Day in many ways. We had the honor of hosting Retired Lt. Col. Jennifer Avery in an assembly at Nathan B Hurst amphitheater

On November 11, we celebrated Veterans Day to salute the 19 million veterans of the U.S. Armed Forces and show our appreciation for the sacrifices they made to protect our country.

On this day we hosted Jennifer Avery. She shared her experiences as a service member to help us understand why it’s so important to never forget those who risk their lives to keep us safe.

Avery stood proudly in front of the whole school to tell her story about how she was the first woman to fly the B-2, and the only woman to fly the bomber in combat in support of Operation Iraqi

Freedom in 2003.

She delivered an amazing speech on her career and talked about how dreams can be achieved no matter how hard life gets. She said if you put your mind to something you can accomplish anything, and to never let anyone tell you no.

Jennifer Avery, daugher of MCD’s Denise Wilson, was the first woman in the military to become a B-2 bomber. She is now retired after serving in the military.

Avery’s love for aviation began when she was just a young child. Her Uncle Bill took her into an aircraft simulator at Charleston Air Force Base, S.C. Not only did Avery graduate at the top of her class at her training camp but she also met the love of her life flying the B-2. Astonishingly, Avery didnt even mean to become a B-2 bomber.

While she was serving, she decided to try out for the B-2.

“I heard that there was a sign up, to be the pilot so I threw my name in the hat, and got picked,” Avery said.

It was interesting to her that she was chosen.

Avery retired to take care of her two children.

“I’m proud of myself,” Avery said. However, she didn’t want being a woman to be a reason she was selected.

Avery’s story is about strength and perseverance, and she is now inspiring future generations.”

“To be able to fly such a unique aircraft that is the backbone of our nation’s nuclear-deterrence defense was a dream come true,” Avery said.

MCDS staff that has served in the armed forces

Scott Tomlison

Thomas Micek

Mark Runge

Jennifer Avery poses with lower school students

Jennifer Avery delivers an inspiring speech.

Above: Timothy Houser, President of Ties for Troops, leads the school-wide assembly.

Mariandl Hufford, President and Head of School, addresses the assembly

Mora Halperin interviews Jennifer Avery

7TH GRADE GOES TO BOSTON

BY LUKE MASSOUD

Students learned about the early English Colonies and spent three days going to countless places. It was an educational trip that made learning U.S history a fun experience.

October 19 ~ Day 1

The seventh graders had to be at the airport at 5:30. It was an early morning because the departure was early as well. Students had to make their way through security and the rest of the airport. When they got to the gate they could spend their money on snacks, food, drinks, and souvenirs. The flight was delayed for 30 extra minutes.

When the 7th grade landed they were divided into 3 groups and went to a famous park in Salem and then Salem Witch Trial Museums. It taught them about the accusations the little girls said against the victim. Students had stops at food cart stations and bought their own food. Following this, students went to an interactive Salem witch trials show for an hour. Students spent two hours shopping then met up at the designated spot.

Once at the hotel, students met their roommate and checked into their rooms. For dinner they visited an Italian restaurant. They had bread with olive oil as an appetizer, and pizza(pepperoni or cheese) as the entree.

October 20 ~ Day 2

On the following day, the 7th graders had get to breakfast by 7:00am. Students went out in their groups to a science museum where the groups merged and roamed around the museum.

The gift shop was open so it was full. Then students went to a food court for an hour and a half.

That afternoon, students went to an interactive Boston Tea Party museum. Here students had the opportunity to learn in an interactive way when they threw the tea crates off the boat and watched the short film.

One student described it as a “family advisory dinner”.

After dinner, students went on a ghost tour. This was about different historical figures or events. It was an extraordinary learning experience for everyone.

October 21 ~ Day 3

Students had to wake up by 6:30am and eat breakfast by 7:00am. Then they got on the road to Plymouth Plantation which is a museum that simulates life as a pilgrim settler. Students were able to dive into Wampanoag architecture.

Upon arrival, Plymouth Plantation was packed with excitement and people. Students learned about each pilgrim’s role and status in the village. There were many stops and attractions. It was an hour and a half away from the hotel.

The three groups regrouped after Plymouth and drove to Mayflower museum, where students were taught about the small space the pilgrims got in the Mayflower.

Students were given several places to go for lunch. Then they headed to the airport .

Many students who went on the trip said it was

The Museums were described as fun learning experiences with friends or even new friends

The trip was a memorable experience. It was fun, exciting and really awesome.

The trip was a success; bonding and education were combined into a fun trip.Students agree that the hotel food for breakfast was very good and filling, and the beds were comfortable.

Pilgrim re-enactment at Plymouth Plantation

7th Graders took an amazing trip to Boston from October 19-21 to learn about colonial life in America.

“The trip was a memorable experience. It was fun, exciting, and really awesome.”

Luke Massoud

The Mayflower II is a full-scale reproduction of the 17th-century merchant ship that brought the Pilgrims to Plymouth

RUSSIA-UKRAINE WAR REDUX

BY JEREMY SAMEK

On February 24, 2022, Vladimir Putin ordered his country to do the unthinkable. He ordered Russia to invade Ukraine.

Russia began to build up its troops on the Ukrainian border in 2021: in all there were 190,000 Russian troops on the Ukrainian border. Putin claimed that if Ukraine joined NATO (North American Treaty Organization), it would be a threat to Russia.

Putin then invaded Ukraine for a preemptive strike that led to an all out war.

Recently, Ukraine is attempting to get all power back on, while trying to withstand the cold winter and continue to intensively fight Russia. The US is trying to talk to Russia about Arms Control. Some cities are having trouble with their water supply. Countries that support Ukraine are focusing on getting air defense systems to counter Russian missiles.

On Tuesday, November 15, 2022 Russia launched at least 100 missiles and 10 drones into Ukraine. Ukraine has survived a devastating attack and is still holding strong. By Friday, November 18 the power in Ukraine is almost

completely restored.

Ukraine is currently trying to restore power and communications. The neighboring country of Poland has confirmed reports of an explosion and the death of 2 people. These rockets have been designated as Ukrainian air defense systems and they were supposed to counter the Russian rockets. However, they missed because they had an old targeting system.

Recently, Russia has conducted missile strikes on Ukrainian cities, such as Moldova. Now, over 10 million people in Ukraine are without power. But “these attacks will not break Ukraine’s will” said US secretary of state Antony Blinken. Ukraine has just liberated the battleground city of Kherson and they have made steady progress in the effort to maintain freedom in Ukraine.

Ukraine may be trying to take back Crimea, which was taken in 2014.

In the G20 this past week, Volodymyr Zelensky addressed the “G19” as Russian president Vladimir Putin did not show up, proving that Ukraine has succeeded in embarrassing Russia. Putin is worried he will not succeed.

INTERVIEW WITH A JEWISH-UKRAINIAN STUDENT

BY YVANNA CORTI

The situation in Ukraine feels so far away, yet it is so close.

The unfortunate political events have hurt many people, including middle school student Dillinger Kashaunsky.

The Spartan Chronicle asked Kashaunsky to help us understand how he really feels as a Ukrainian.

“I am a proud Jewish Ukrainian student, and seeing the war in my country hurts me, ” Kashaunsky said.

Kashaunsky made plans to visit Ukraine, but he wasn’t able to go.

“I had planned a trip but was canceled due to the war, I was planning to stay there for a month,” he said.

The war has canceled thousands of trips, and people are longing to see their families.

Unfortunately for Kashaunsky, a family member died years ago in Ukraine.

Kashaunsky’s wishes were to to pay respect to his family.

Kashaunsky also said that seeing innocent people getting hurt in war makes him feel helpless and sad.

However, he is happy that the situation is getting better and hopefully he will get to see his

Russia has been accused by many countries, including the United States of committing war crimes. There are multiple degrees of evidence that Russia has been attacking innocent civilians, but Russia has not stopped committing these crimes.

Due to the crimes Russia has committed, the US and many other countries have announced multiple sanctions on Russia.

Russia came into this war with one of the best militaries in the world. But Ukraine is holding on to its territory. This is due to experienced soldiers, as they fought in the war for Crimea. This is also due to supplies from NATO countries, led by the US. Some thought Russia would take over Ukraine in as little as 24-48 hours. Well, here we are, 8 ½ months later, and Ukraine has not only defended itself, they have gained on the Russian Army. This is an outstanding, triumph for the free world. The first major score for Ukraine was when they drove Russia out of Kyiv, the capital of Ukraine. Russia was trying to conquer this city, Then Ukraine used Neptune anti-ship missiles to destroy the Moskva, the flagship vessel in the Black sea fleet.

Russia took control of the famed Chernobyl power plant, but left due to heavy losses and radiation exposure. Russia also took control of Zaporizhzhia, but Ukraine has not let Russia do anything with it.

Now Ukraine has more weapons, and more people to fight, who are devoted to freedom. Ukraine has recently aquireddrones and boats and planes that carry explosives.

Some of these drones are Kamikaze drones, where they purposely crash into a ship or a land target. When the explosive detonates, it destroys everything in its path. Ukraine has used these to attack other ships.

Ukraine also blew up the only bridge between Russia and Crimea. Ukraine is using the rest of their forces to try and stop Russia’s advancement.

Volodymyr Zelensky, the first Jewish Ukrainian president, is leading his country to defend itself.

Ukraine’s bravery is one for the history books.

family soon!

We should all try to help everyone struggling with the war, and be as supportive as possible, as they might be going through hard times.

Hopefully Kashaunsky, and all Ukrainian students everywhere will get through this and find ways to support their country.

“I am a proud Jewish Ukrainian student, and seeing the war my country hurts me”

Dillinger Kashaunsky

Photo by Alimdok

U.S. Midterm Election Results

IN AMERICA, PEOPLE CAN VOTE BECAUSE WE LIVE IN A DEMOCRACY. IT IS MORE IMPORTANT TO VOTE NOW THAN EVER BECAUSE OF THE RISE OF NON-DEMOCRATIC COUNTRIES.

BY JEREMY SAMEK

In the 2022 midterm elections, there have been many changes in the American government. In Florida, the major elections were incumbent governor Ron Desantis against his democratic challenger, Charlie Christ. Due to a major redrawing of the maps that would give the advantage to republicans, Ron Desantis was reelected. In the Florida senate race, Democrat Val Demings lost to incumbent republican senator Marco Rubio. Due to the fact that we live in a democracy, the citizens of the United States of America voted for the candidates that they want to represent them.

The major races were for governor, senator, and representative. As this is the midterm elections, it is in the middle of the president’s term, so there is no presidential race. Historically, the party opposite to the president does well in the midterms. So it surprised many people when there was not a big “red wave”, and in fact the democrats gained in the senate. Democratic President Joe Biden called it “A great day for democracy”. Other major elections were :

Senate

At this time Democrats have 50 seats and Republicans have 49 seats. If it is tied at 50, Democrat vice president Kamala Harris will break the tie, giving democrats the edge. Republicans have lost to the Democrats, despite a projected “Red Wave” where republicans were projected to have heavily taken over the senate and house.

Georgia : Runoff Election between (D) Raphael Warnock and (R) Herschel Walker

Arizona : Winner = Democrat Mark Kelly

Nevada : Winner = Democrat Catherine Cortez-Masto

House of Representatives

Republicans = 219 seats Democrats = 216 seats

At this time it is likely that the republicans will gain control of the House.

It was previously controlled by democrats. However, Republicans were projected to gain tens of seats, possibly 50 or so, and the GOP only gained about 5.

ARTEMIS LIFT-OFF: NASA LAUNCHES MOON ROCKET

BY JEREMY SAMEK

On Tuesday, November 16, 2022, at 1:47 AM, NASA launched its latest mission from Cape Canaveral, Florida. This is the Artemis.

Artemis 1 is a spacecraft with the purpose to bring humans back to the Moon and Mars. This mission does not carry humans but the next Artemis mission will carry humans, likely to the Moon.

NASA plans to land the first woman and African American on the moon before 2025, using Artemis.

This mission has so far been a big success for NASA and the

world. Artemis 1 gives NASA a chance to go back to the moon.

“What an incredible sight to see NASA’s Space Launch System rocket and Orion spacecraft launch together for the first time,” NASA administrator Bill Nelson said.

This uncrewed flight test will push Orion to the limits in the rigors of deep space, helping us prepare for human exploration on the Moon and, ultimately, Mars.”

This mission has been delayed for 2 months, and did not launch on attempts on August 29 and September 4. due to

rocket failures and hurricanes. But now, the rocket is finally ready. It is a great achievement for humanity. At this point in the mission Artemis has conducted a successful Trans-lunar injection and is on its way to the moon.

The rocket that launched the Orion capsule (the part that the astronauts go in) is the SLS. The SLS is the largest rocket to ever launch, and is the first rocket since the Saturn V to be able to launch humans to the moon.

Now, humans, for the first time in 50 years, can go back to the moon and beyond.

WORLD CUP: THE WORLD IS WATCHING

What’s more remarkable than the world coming together to watch a fantastic sport?

BY HENRIQUE DA FONTE

The world cup is a national cup that happens every 4 years.

There are 80 countries which compete to win a spot in the round of 32. We call this round of 32 the group stage.

Only 16 countries can make it past the group stage. The world cup also attracts a lot of students, especially students who play soccer.

The World Cup kicked off with Qatar vs Ecuador, with Qatar losing 2-0, both goals were

scored by Enner Valencia, one being a penalty, and one being a header.

This is the first time a hosting nation of the World Cup lost their first match. This is also the first World Cup that has been held in the middle east. There have been many upsets in this event. One incident occured when Saudi Arabia vs Argentina. Surprisingly Saudi Arabia won 2-1 Someone posted on Instagram that the Saudi Arabian prince gave every single Saudi Arabian soccer player a Rolls

Royce Ghost.

In this world cup, Japan has been the second-half underdog, beating Germany and Spain during the second half.

NASA's Artemis 1 mission launches toward the moon from Kennedy Space Center in Florida on Nov. 16, 2022. (Image credit: NASA/Joel Kowsky)

LETTER TO MY LOWER SCHOOL SELF

Dear lower school Pierson.

I am not scared of the dark anymore. There is simply nothing there but darkness. You will come over this fear in mid-4th grade. We still have the fear of losing our family members and I don’t think we will ever overcome that fear until it happens.

Make sure to eat healthy even if it doesn’t taste good, you will need to eat healthy to be strong like dad when we are older. Dad and Mom are still doing fine. Start playing soccer earlier, we will be much better even though

A DOG’S HEALING LOVE

BY ARIEL BORER

There are many kinds of dogs, and they have been our pets for years. Since dogs have been domesticated, they have had many jobs. For example, they might work on farms and help special aid people.

Jessica Borer experienced some tough times when her dog’s support saved her life.

joyful every day.

“This dog is my whole life, she gives me things to do such as go on walks and get exercise, which was important to me at the time I was sick,” Borer said.

Dear lower school Henrique,

You are only in 2nd grade but I need you to know some stuff for our benefit.

First, become friends with more people. You will see that it is better to have a lot of friends. Second, stop being afraid of roller coasters. When we are nine, we go on one and love it! Third, eat healthly and drink milk because it helps you grow, and growing is good.

Focus more on soccer. When you grow up you will realize everybody is better than you at soccer. You can change that though by joining a soccer team; you’ll become much better and everybody will look up to you. Also, you don’t only have to practice with your team you can juggle balls at home and go on the treadmill.

Try harder at school so you will become much more intelligent.

Also, try playing chess because it strengthens your mind and is really fun. We play with Joao; he is very good but if you start now I think that we can beat him!

Do your homework; you will get a better grade and you will make mom proud. Finally, stop fighting with Felipe. I know it’s tempting, but don’t do it because it will make everything worse, and mom and dad won’t like it.

That wraps everything up. Remember everything I said and use it.

Sincerely,

Middle school Henrique

One day her dog started acting strangely, as if something was seriously wrong. The dog started to bark when Borer got close to the dog.

Borer realized that she was not feeling very well. She decided to check it out and went to the hospital. As it turned out, she was having a stroke!

“If it wasn’t for my dog, I might have lost my life,” Borer said.

Borer needed her dog’s love so much during the time she spent in the hospital; she actually snuck her dog into the hospital room.!

Asked if her health process would have been the same without the support of her dog, Borer said, “No, not at all. This dog has helped me and guided me to be a more positive person from my hard times.”

Borer feels that this dog has made her feel that she has a purpose in life and a reason to be

It is scientifically proven that dogs and humans have one of the strongest bonds and friendships than with other animal species. Dogs are a human’s best friend. They are companions and are meant to be together.

According to an online Harris Poll, 92 percent of households that own a dog consider it a family member.

Dogs are therapeutic; they have been a source of help for anxiety and depression, almost like a form of medication. It is also proven that if someone pets a dog or touches its fur, it relieves anxiety in humans.

Dogs help with so many diseases and sicknesses. Some help to lower blood pressure, lower heart rate, help with breathing, and relax the human body.

Isn’t it amazing how dogs can do many beautiful tasks, and have such an impact on our lives?

Whether you have a dog or not you probably already know that dogs light up your life, and can give you something to love and care about. They might even save your life.

WHAT IT’S LIKE TO BE A GEN ALPHA

STUDENT NOW

HURRICANE IAN LEAVES BEHIND DEADLY BACTERIA

BY PIERSON SAMS

Over a hundred people have died in the rising death toll of Hurricane Ian, but what else has it left behind? Flooded backyards? Destroyed homes? Yes, both of those are true but it has left something behind much worst. Flesh-eating bacteria!

BY HENRIQUE DA FONTE

Kids through the age of 12 have experienced so much in their lives. With covid, some people just don’t realize how much kids have been through these past few years.

Journalist Brianna Hoge says kids have become more stressed than ever and that anxiety levels have increased by 40 percent since 2019.

An average day for a kid includes spending 7-8 hours of their day in school. Then after that, they go home and do whatever homework they have. That usually takes 1-2 hours. Middle school kids spend 10 hours of their day doing school-related stuff. This is a lot.

The bacteria is called Vibrio vulnificus. Florida county believes it’s the water that Hurricane Ian threw around, that got into open wounds, or in mouths/noses. It is likely the water had the deadly bacteria in it.

“If someone is concerned that they may have been exposed to Vibrio vulnificus and are experiencing the symptoms, they should seek

VOLLEYBALL SEASON RECAP

BY PIERSON SAMS

I think that this is too much for a kid.

I feel like if they decreased the number of hours students spend in a classroom and increase the educational activities teachers will start seeing how much more focused and active the students would be in class. Students will still be learning but differently (in a more animated way).

I also believe that teachers should decrease the amount of homework.

My personal opinion is teachers should just make sure students are getting enough learning time in class.

“Teachers should give more time in class to do homework because it will relieve the stress we have at home,” said middle school student Carlos Montenegro.

Montenegro believes this will reduce the anxiety that students have been having these past few years.

As a student, I think that if teachers start doing this I will be much more successful and active during class.

The Junior Varsity Volleyball team started the season roughly, losing to FL Christian in game number 1, and in game 2 they lost to Ransom Everglades.

The JV team got back on track winning 4 games in a row vs Palmer Trinity, Carrollton, Sagemont, and Carrollton.

They lost that streak by losing to Westminster Christain. Once they lost to Westminster Christain they went on a losing streak for four games. These four games were vs, Divine Savior, Divine Savior again, Palmer Trinity. After beating them twice they finally lost vs Carrollton.

In the last three games, they played Fisher Island Day School, Palmer Trinity, and Riviera Prep. They won all three of them, ending with a record of 7 wins and 7 losses.

Captain of the JV Volleyball team, Sophie Caceres, said: “We came off to a very rough start in the season but we definitely cleaned up the mistakes that we made at the

medical attention immediately,” state officials said in a statement of concern.

Symptoms of Vibrio Vulnifcus are; diarrhea, which often comes with abdominal cramping, nausea, vomiting, fever, and chills. Florida has 65 confirmed cases of Vibrio

vulnificus and 11 deaths. This marks the record number of Vibrio vulnificus cases in a year. The CDC (The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) reports that about 1 in 5 people who get this bacteria die. If the disease is left untreated, death can occur in a few days.

beginning of the season.”

The Varsity Volleyball team started the season off with a win against Florida Christain, but lost against Ransom Everglades.

After that loss, they decided to get back on track and stop fooling around. They won the next 17 games in a row, which was the rest of their games!

Those games were vs, (the next 5 games are in a tournament) Ransom Everglades, Florida Christain, Divine Savior, and Carrollton.

The Varsity Volleyball team won that tournament with no losses. (The next games were all league games) They won every league game after the loss to Ransom Everglades. These games were vs, Palmer Trinity, Carrollton, Westminister Christain, University School, Divine Savior, Carrollton, Divine Savior again, Palmer Trinity again, Palmer Trinity another time, and Riviera Prep.

Since the Varsity team did so well in the season, they made it to the biggest tournament for Varsity Volleyball in the county and state. In the Semi-Finals, they played against a team that they have lost to, the Ransom Everglades.

MCDS wanted to prove that they could beat them, and they did. They went to the finals of the SFMSC Tournament.

On October 17 2022 the Varisty team beat Carrollton in the finals of the SFMSC Tournament; this win made the Volleyball team champions.

“We definitely cleaned up the mistakes that we made at the beginning of the season.”

Sophie Caceres

CHLOE’S MAKEUP TIPS AND SKIN CARE ROUTINES

BY CHLOE BOYD

Make-up and skin care for students should not be complicated.

Here is my 10 - 15 minute morning routine for skincare: first, cleanse your face with any cleanser of your choice. Good choices are Cetaphil, Youth to the People, and Cerave. Then start with some face lotion. You could use, Glossier, Tatcha, Clinique, and Tulla. Apply any serum of your choice; some options are, Glow Recipe, Drunk Elephant, Ordinary and Glossier. Then apply a good foundation or bronzer powder.

You can get good foundation and bronzers at Sephora and Ulta. To begin, put on mascara. Good mascaras are Making Waves, Dior, ilia, Rare Beauty, and Florence by Mills.

Lastly, put any blush/liquid blush on your face. It looks best on your nose and cheekbones.

When at school, after PE or when I sweat, I find my makeup drips off so I use the following routine. After PE, I go in the restroom and wash my face off with cold water and a paper towel. Then I apply powder foundation.

Put on any shade of lip gloss/lipstick. You can choose the shade of pink that suits you. Depending on what you put on in the morning you should put on the same thing you had on before. This at-school routine does not just have to be after pe you can do it during break or any time after your classes.

3 WAYS TO STOP BULLYING

Bullying. It’s not fun for anyone. It can cause mental issues and changes your school experience. What can you do about it?

BY LUKE MASSOUD

Bullying is still happening, even with all the effort school boards are putting in to stop it, it is still here. Whether you are a victim of bullying or not you should still stand up to bullies.

Bullying is an important topic to me because I was bullied for 5 years and it felt terrible.

After sports, you should take a shower and cleanse your face in the shower with warm water, a washcloth, and a good fash wash of your choice. While taking a shower get a makeup remover and wash your makeup off. After your shower, you should put some comfy clothes on and put a skincare headband on to keep your hair back from your skincare.

I do not recommend using face cream every night, use it every other night. Then use a face serum from any brand you like.

Next, put on a lip mask. I highly recommend the Laneige lip mask.

A Miami Country Day student (who wishes to remain anonymous) shared their bullying experience with me. They explained that they felt sad and depressed when they were being bullied. It affected their mood and ruined their school year. He was furious every day until they finally snapped and he put the bully in their place. Hestopped the bully by standing up against him, then they backed down.

Lauri Kassewitz, MCD’s middle school counselor, shared that she was bullied when in middle school. She said she felt depressed and it ruined her confidence. She eventually stopped it by standing up to her bully.

The experience made her insecure and gave her low self esteem. She also bullied others for a short time. “It came from thinking I had power,” she shared.

Kassewitz later explained how terrible it felt to bully others. She said the best way

to stop it is to talk about it or stand up for yourself.

Here are three things you can do to stop bullying.

First, talk about it and sort things out. The second way is to tell a teacher. The third way is to stand up and fight back, (verbal or physical). It is always ok to defend yourself.

Kassewitz shared that her office is a safe place to talk about bullying.

GET MORE FROM YOUR ENERGY DRINK WITH MTE

BY CHLOE BOYD

One year ago, Jeff Boyd was sitting on the beach and wanted an energy drink, but he realized that there was not a truly healthy energy drink available. So he decided to create a healthy, energy-boosting drink. Boyd spread his idea through his family and creators. Everyone was excited and thrilled that Jeff was going to create a great wellness drink.

MTE (more than energy) was founded to improve the quality of life with many highquality ingredients and many benefits.

MTE announced the launch of its 2 oz wellness shot. The drink was created to boost daily energy and the immune system, but without excessive caffeine.

This shot is formulated as a daily supplement to boost your quality of life. The formula has all the energy benefits of caffeine but without any of the common side effects.

MTE does not just help you with energy;

it helps with, mood, motivation, focus, and stress response, and their effects on daily well being”

“We are not an energy drink that sprinkled in a healthy ingredient or two for effect,” explained Boyd. “We are a wellness drink that supports energy because it is a component of overall wellness”.

Boyd explained what is distinctive about MTE over other brands.

“Every energy drink, even healthy ones have excessive caffeine, which significantly limits their ability to provide other benefits. Others overcorrect and are unable to effectively support energy,” Boyd said.

MTE was created to do both.

“It’s why MTE as a daily supplement can be a game changer”, said Boyd.

In all, over a dozen benefits to well-being are boosted and supported by the energy shot’s ingredients.

you should wake up.

“We are not an energy drink that sprinkled in a healthy ingredient or two for effect.

We are a wellness drink that supports energy because it is a component of overall wellness.”

Jeff Boyd, Founder

BY YVANNA CORTI

Are you getting enough sleep? Sleep is an essential key to keeping you refreshed throughout the day.

A poll on the Spartan Chronicle websitel asked MCD students how much sleep they got. The results were shocking!

Only 20% of students are getting the right amount of sleep, while 80% of students are only getting 4-8 hours of sleep each night. That’s barely the amount of sleep an adult should get!

First, it is important to know how much sleep you should get at night. This helps you understand what time you should get in bed, and what time

Students ranging from 6-12 are recommended to get 9-11 hours of sleep, while older students should get 8-10 hours.

Everyone must get enough sleep at night to perform their daily tasks, especially students entering their teen years. Even though children should be getting a lot of sleep, they are the most sleep deprived generation.

Here are three tips on how to get better sleep:

1. Have A Consistent Sleep Schedule And Routine

Try to go to bed, and wake up at the same time each night. This helps train your brain to go into a cycle, and it becomes easier for you to go to sleep.

For example, going to bed late for a repeated amount of time will make it harder for you to go to sleep earlier in the future.

Waking up at the same time, has the same effect on you. Try putting on alarms, and doing your work earlier in the day to help you stay consistent!

2. Be Physically Active

Doing a sport, or even taking a short walk each day might be the key to helping you sleep, and has many important influences on your sleep cycle.

Being active naturally makes you tired, and helps you fall asleep faster. This also helps you fall into a deep sleep, which causes you to not get up as much during the night and improves your sleep quality. Exercise is also said to relieve stress, which is one of the most common factors of keeping people awake at night.

Stress causes your mind to fill up with worry, and it clenches your muscles leaving you tossing and turning all night long. With exercise, it helps relieve that stress, leaving you clear minded and comfortable enough to sleep!

Simply make sure not to exercise too close to your bedtime, as this might cause the opposite affect and keep you awake. It is recommended to exercise AT LEAST one hour before your bedtime.

3. Limit Naps During The Day

Taking quick naps during the day helps your mind stay sharp and focused, but sleeping for too long can cause you to have trouble falling asleep.

Your brain needs to be tired enough to sleep at night, but after taking a long nap your brain remains alert and energized. It is recommended to only take naps ranging from 10-30 minutes. Hopefully after learning these tips, you include them to your sleep schedule and start seeing positive results!

Photo courtesy of Jeff Boyd

Jeff Boyd, Founder of MTE

ARMADILLO DIVIDERS POSE DANGER FOR MIAMI LOCALS

BY ARIEL BORER

If you are walking, driving, biking, or scootering around your street, watch for the speed bumps that divide the bike lane from the car lane. These are called armadillos, and they are causing a lot of harm to the citizens of our community.

Many people that live in Miami have been suffering from injuries from crashing into the armadillos.

In the beginning, when the county of Miami Dade decided to place these dividers it definitely seemed like a perfect idea, due to it protecting bikers from cars.

After a bit of time, people started to realize that this was not a great idea. Some people have stated that these dividers are making the biking lane more narrow and giving people less room to move around.

Stacy Borer, an avid cyclist, crashed into armadillo and flipped over on her head. Fortunately, she did not injure her head,

FOLLOW THE LINK TO PARTICIPATE IN THE PETITION

but she landed on her arm and broke it. Borer cares about her community and wants to protect the people of Miami Beach.

“I want to protect my community from these speed bumps, I care about the people, and never want anyone to experience what I have been through,” Borer said

Cyclists and many others in our county are also encouraging the county to get rid of these immediately.

David Perlman, began a petition in Miami to remove armadillos because they are harming our city and the people.

“The placement of barriers known as ‘armadillos’ on the Venetian Causeway placed with the intention to protect cyclists have created a clear and present danger to all cyclists,” said Perlman. “Help us get the city of Miami to remove these so we don’t see anymore fellow cyclist injuries because of them.

TEN POPULAR HOLIDAY DESTINATIONS

definitely recommend visiting Times Square Ball Drop. There are also magnificent fireworks in Central Park and NYHarbor.

6. Cape Town, South Africa This country is known as the most magical place and the best place to travel in South Afica. Some travel to this place for the New Year because of its amazing waterfront, live bands and cruise ships.

BY ARIEL BORER

You might be wondering where people travel and celebrate the holiday and New Year’s Eve.

Rio de Janeiro, Brazil is the tenth most common place that people seem to travel on New Year. It is known for.hosting parties and at Copacabana Beach. After the fireworks, everyone must jump seven waves in the ocean and make seven wishes.

9. Goa, India This destination is known as the party spot of India, and one of the best places to celebrate this holiday. This location includes beaches and parties, this place is a must if you want to celebrate on a budget!

8. Paris, France Paris for the New Year is to see the Eiffel tower and experience beautiful fireworks. Another place to visit is the Moulin Rouge, where you can witness breathtaking shows.

7. New York City, United States When celebrating New Year’s in New York I

5. Abu Dubai, UAE When the twelve o’clock clock ticks many fireworks go on in the big city. There are also magnificent water shows on Dubia Mountain.

4. Venice, Italy Enjoy the canals. the food and the city architecture. There are many amazing parties hosted in this location.

3. Miami, United States Where do I start? This location is known for hosting amazing parties! The beaches are lively and exceptionally fun. Experience fireworks in South Beach at the Bayfront Park, enjoy fancy dinners with amazing food, and listen to amazing DJ music!

2. Las Vegas, Nevada This is one of the most amazing party destinations, with parties that you will never forget! This location has casinos, clubs, hotel events, crazy fireworks, and a lot more!

Finally, the MOST popular place people travel for New Years is Sydney, Australia! The fireworks displayed on New Year’s are an experience you will never forget! There are also amazing cruises where you can watch the fireworks.

THE SPARTAN CHRONICLE

The student newspaper of Miami Country Day School

Contact The Spartan Chronicle at: 601 NE 107th St, Miami, FL 33161 (305) 779-7200

stclaird@miamicountryday.org

Editors in Chief

Jeremy Samek

Ariel Borer

Staff reporters

Gabriela Borda

Chloe Boyd

Yvanna Corti

Pierson Sams

Henrique Da Fonte

Beckett Growney

Luke Massoud

Falculty Advisor

Dianne St. Clair

MISSION STATEMENT

The Spartan Chronicle strives to inform and educate the students of MCDS as well as provide leadership on significant issues impacting the school community.

EDITORIAL POLICY

Writers and editors adhere to the highest principles of excellence in journalism including accruacy, honesty, respect, integrity, and precision.