THE TIMBER CREEK TRIBUNE
Volume XIII
A Student Publication
Issue III, March 2014
Course cuts cause chaos
Brittany Crary Page Editor
Orange County recently notified administration that a variety of courses would be cut for the 20142015 school year, allegedly due to their inability to follow Common Core standards. When the list was released, panic and disappointment settled in. As of Mar. 3, the courses that affected Timber Creek included Analytical Geometry and Trigonometry, Advanced Algebra with Financial Applications, Integrated Science, Genetics Honors, Forensics (Bio 2 Honors), Zoology, Medical Research, Creative Writing 1-4, Comprehensive Law Honors, African American Studies, and Peer Counseling 1-4. The list was subject to change as administrators from across the county negotiated with county personnel. By Mar. 7, Creative Writing 1-4 and Peer Counseling 1-4 were reinstated. While losing electives took a school-wide toll, the class that caused the most uproar among the student body was Forensics, taught by Anna Stevens. “I love my forensics class. It’s 90 percent lab and
watching ‘Criminal Minds’ so I figured I would take the class,” said junior Kaitlyn Packard. To save the some of the classes, a student created a petition that has made its way through the school. While most teachers are putting their trust in the county to make the right decision, the petition has helped lift spirits. “I think that anytime students take action for any reason it’s a good thing,” said Stevens, “The American Revolution didn’t happen because people sat on their rear ends.” The cuts are considered unfair by students as demonstrated by over 400 signatures on a paper petition, and nearly 400 parents and concerned citizens who have signed of an online petition through moveon.org. Junior Kaitlyn Packard gives her support to the course cut “I don’t think it’s fair to cut courses because it helps petition. PHOTO/ Brittany Crary with our career choice. Cutting them kind of sets us it’s one of the few classes that is purely hands-on,” back for when we go off to college. Say I wanted to said Stevens. major in Medical Research, I go to college and the Not only is the thought of not teaching Forensics a students that had the course available to them in high disappointment to Stevens, but it is also hard on stu- school and took it will be ahead of me,” said sophodents who were looking forward to taking the course more Julianna Arabejo. next year. “I’m interested in Forensics. I really like
Robotics team gears up for World Championship
Comic by Tre Blodgett. Life Skills Staff Editorial on page 10
Juniors Conary Ramos and Melinda Ramos work on building robot 5956B. PHOTO/ Donated
Brittany Crary Page Editor
Students in Project Lead the Way have spent the past several months building and testing the robots that landed them a spot in the 2014 VEX Robotics World Championship in Anaheim, CA. They will compete against 400 teams from 29 countries. With only the top teams chosen from around the world, this is a huge accomplishment for these rookies. “I think it’s awesome. It’s the first year they have competed in this competition and made it all the way too, which is rare. They worked every day till nine for this. They worked hard and I feel they deserved it,” said sponsor Jennifer Kane. For two months students have been busy putting the robots to the test with a total of four competitions. With every match videotaped, the competitions are a learning experience, to see what improvements can be made.
To date, the robotics team has received three awards; a Judge’s Award, Excellence Award, and Energy Award. They have also qualified for VEX Robotics State Championship, which led them to VEX Robotics World Championship. They are ranked 4th out of 159 teams in Florida. At the Battle of Brandon, the team’s third competition, robot 5956A won the programming challenge, and 5956B won the Excellence Award, which is only presented to the best robotics team. With the World competition quickly approaching, the team is stepping up their game. “Right now it’s meeting after school every day, and doing practice runs, and making any last minute fixes If necessary,” said senior Jesus Penaloza. The World Championship will be held Apr. 23-26. Seniors attending will miss prom, but they are a dedicated group and think the sacrifice is worth it. “This is a stepping stone in to what we want to do when we get older,” said senior Austen DeGrenier.
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CONTENT 2 - Features 4 - Academics 5 - Sports 6 - Spring Break Special 8 - Brain Food 9 - Entertainment 10 - Opinion and Editorial
Features and Highlights 2
A tribute to Timber Creek’s lost clubs Below is the life span of some of Timber Creek’s distinctive clubs from the years 2002 - 2012.
To create a club, request a form and approval from Mrs. Hemann on which you state the purpose for the club, gather at least 10 students to sign it, find a sponsor, and a meeting location and time. The Vice President of each club must attend a monthly Inter Club Council meeting.
Metalworks Education Enhancement
2002
2003
2004
Musicians’ Alliance & Pot Luck Club
Teen Trendsetters & Electronic Gaming
2005
2006
2007
Surf Club
2008
Teenage Republicans Roller Hockey
2009
Garden for Change & Beyond the Wall
2010
2011
2012
Wilderness Awareness Greeting Card Club
Young Democrats
Talking it out: teachers sit down with students to make the grade Annie Magee Copy Editor
On Wednesday, Jan. 29, students and teachers participated in a schoolwide Curriculum Day. Students who will continue their education at Timber Creek next year were able to discuss class choices for the 2014-2015 school year. While many students have a clear course progression for their classes in core subjects (such as English or math), those tracks often do not extend past sophomore or junior level classes. Then a variety of classes at different levels of rigor and areas of interest becomes available. Picking these classes can be confusing or overwhelming. However, teachers believe students may already know what choices suit them best, even if they are nervous. By talking about their options in class, teachers gave students the peace of mind knowing they approved of their choices. Math teacher Philip Bradford said, “It reassures them of the decisions they’ve already made.” Some teachers discussed requirements outside of their subject areas. Science teacher Minerva Rauback explained not only course offerings to her students, but also class prerequisites, graduation requirements, and what it takes to receive a Scholar Diploma. “It seems as though I always get asked a lot if Chemistry is required,” said Rauback. What seemed to be the most frequent questions were concerning Advanced Placement (AP) classes. German instructor Christine Gildner felt that talking to her upper-level students
helped them make prudent choices regarding whether they should continue to the AP German class next year. “Knowing what they’re doing in the next year of German, that makes a big difference in their decision.” Students worked to balance their schedules and not overwhelm themselves with advanced, high-rigor coursework. Gildner noted that sometimes even high-performing students who are interested in continuing her program decide to not take the class due to the time-consuming nature of their other AP classes. Elective classes had the option of advertising their programs at A and B Lunch during Curriculum Day, hoping to recruit current freshmen, sophomores, and juniors. Additionally, “Middle School Nights” for these programs to advertise to incoming freshmen from Avalon Middle School and Discovery Middle School were held on Jan. 28 and Feb. 4, respectively. “It’s more effective when parents are involved,” said art teacher Kathleen Shannon concerning recruiting incoming freshmen. Overall, teachers explained the power of communicating with other students. Gildner said that many of her firstyear students have older siblings in the German program, and Shannon has often had students from her Sculpture classes continue on to her AP Portfolio courses. “Word of mouth and peer counseling is probably the greatest avenue students use to select their courses,” said Rauback. Bradford added that “talk[ing] to their like-minded students about what they liked and disliked” would help students make wise course choices.
Serenade Grams woo on Valentine’s Day
The Silver Gents delivering a serenade gram during third period. PHOTO/ Tyler Andreala people would recognize, such as:
Tyler Andreala Page Editor
While most people were receiving oversized bears and boxes of chocolate, 100 unsuspecting recipients were given “Serenade Grams” performed by the Silver Bells and Silver Gents throughout the day on Friday, Feb. 14. For the first time, both the Gents and Bells hosted a fundraiser where they sang 30 second clips of popular songs on Valentine’s Day. During the week leading up to Valentine’s Day students were able to purchase a Serenade Gram for three dollars, choose a song, and address it to anyone at school. The Silver Gents is an acapella singing group that was originally started five years ago. After being inactive for the last two years, the group reformed. The Silver Gents divided themselves into smaller groups, based on their vocal ranges; together they had a jazz inspired sound to them. They rehearsed for over a week and their song selection were chosen through group discussion. In the end they chose songs
“Love on Top” by Beyonce and “Just the Way You Are,” by Bruno Mars. I’d describe us as organized chaos…when we calm down we create good music,” said senior Andy Novoa. The Silver Bells are an all-girl group comprised of students in choir. The singing group was initially started seven years ago. The Bells practiced two days a week, for about an hour each day and rehearsed four times in preparation for the fundraiser. “Instead of writing down the songs and practicing that way, we were able to piece it together by ear and collaborate on the overall sound of the singing and work on it that way,” said senior Julianna Kolbrich. With almost 100 Serenade Grams purchased between the Gents and Bells, the Choir program has raised nearly 300 dollars. This money will go towards future concerts and the senior field trip at the end of the year. “Considering that it was our first year doing the Serenade Grams, we were very happy and surprised with the results,” said junior Matthew Cletto.
3 Features and Highlights
New restaurants in Waterford Lakes Town Center Cooper’s Hawk Winery and Restaurant
The first addition to the Waterford Lakes Town Center is Cooper’s Hawk Winery and Restaurant (CHWR). It is a complex lot, where there is a place to eat, shop, and taste wine. In 2005, Tim McEnery opened his first CHWR in Orland Park, Illinois, a south suburb of Chicago. Its restaurant menu consists of all types of meals from burgers to salads to seafood. The price range of all items on the menu is from $6 - $30. It is expected to be opened before noon until 10:00 PM on most days. There is no information on the CHWR or Waterford Lakes website about hours in this specific location.
Scan to visit their website or type coopershawkwinery.com into your address bar
Fresh To Order
Marlow’s Tavern
The next addition to the Town Center is Fresh To Order (F2O). It originates in Atlanta, Georgia and is scattered throughout the state as well as in Tennessee. The restaurant was by Pierre Panos whose dream was to create an alternate experience to fast dining. F2O’s mission promises serving fresh food in 10 minutes for under 10 dollars. Its menu showcases their “Amazing Panini Sandwiches” as well as their so-called “Long Plates,” which come with Wheat Berry Rice and a choice of meat. F20 also provides a catering menu and a gluten free menu.
Originally located in Atlanta, Georgia, Marlow’s Tavern is the last addition to the plaza. The restaurant serves salads, sandwiches, and burgers. Its founder John Metz was shooting for a modern-tavern menu, truly for the average American. Metz’s cofounder Thomas DiGiorgio designed the restaurant so that it was modern, warm and welcoming. Expect to see Chicago-styled brick walls and black and white pictures spread across them.
Scan to visit their website or type freshtoorder.com into your address bar
Scan to visit their website or type marlowstavern.com into your address bar
Students homeless, not helpless Tyanna Guzman Staff Writer
Most students may find themselves unaware of the fact that one of their classmates may be homeless. Homelessness is defined officially as “lacking a fixed, regular, and adequate nighttime residence.” These students and families find shelter in motels, hotels, trailer parks, camping grounds, cars, parks, and other public spaces. According to the Orange County Public Schools McKinney-Vento Program, youths often become homeless due to loss of housing or economic hardships. These children may also be awaiting foster care placement. Even students housed with relatives or friends on a temporary basis are considered homeless. MVP is on a mission to rid homeless education seekers of the conflicts that they face when enrolling and attending school. MVP is an expanding service to these students qualifying as homeless under the McKinney-Vento Act (MVA). The act ensures that schools
across Orange County disseminate public notice of educational rights in schools. The educational rights of homeless students under MVA state that they can enroll and attend school no matter where they live or how long they have lived there. Students who qualify as homeless are not to be denied the opportunity to attend school programs with children who are not homeless. Once officially designated as a homeless youth, s/he is provided free lunches and transportation to a school in their zone. Backpacks, school supplies, funding for specific required school materials, field trip money, emergency basic needs items (clothing, hygiene products etc.), and Lynx Bus Passes/ Gas Reimbursement Cards are given to these students. Other than the MVP organization, Timber Creek itself also provides help for its homeless students. Free breakfast and lunch are offered, along with bus transportation. The SAFE office and guidance counselors help coordinate food pick-up and delivery.
Former student shares experience
Pranjal Dahiya speaks about his accident and the consequences. PHOTO/ Lauren Trevino
Lauren Trevino Features Editor
Teenagers constantly hear warnings about the dangers of reckless driving, especially in regards to drinking and driving. More often than not, teens merely disregard this message until someone closer to their own age has suffered the consequences, and shares their story. Juniors and seniors sat in the performing arts center during the Safe Driving assembly on Jan. 31 during first through third period, as a video displaying the average social problems teenagers face played across screens set up on stage. All scenarios ended with the worst possible consequences of reckless decisions.
The Student Government Association (SGA) fundraises for the homeless around Thanksgiving and Christmas by organizing food baskets. BETA donated gifts around Christmas for them through Operation Santa Surprise. Clothes and accessories, as well as free formal attire for school dances, are provided through Key Club, located in room 560B. Every Wednesday, Orange County's Burning Hearts Ministry provides baked goods for students to take with them as they leave school. The school’s food pantry, located within the cafeteria in a room that was formerly the faculty dining lounge, has had donations from the Primrose School at Avalon Park, Wemert Group/ Bridge Water, and Kavaliro. Service Learning students help to keep the food pantry stocked as well. Service Learning Academy Coordinator/teacher Wendy Doromal and her students work with the Health Care Center for the Homeless (HCCH). "We have food drives and clothing drives for the homeless," said Doromal. In Orange County, the homeless student count as of Dec. 12, 2013 was 5,101, an increase of 322 from a month
earlier. At Timber Creek 23 students are coded as homeless, but that does not mean there are not more. Most of these teens spend their day at school and blend in. JoLynn Schall is on staff in the SAFE office and specializes in working with these students. "They inspire me because, despite their circumstances, they have a good attitude and want to do well in school," Schall said. One of these 23 coded homeless students spends her day facing the hardships of finding a job, doing everything on her own, and not having money. School has become more difficult in the three months she has been homeless. She finds it hard to focus and is constantly worried. "We have more obstacles to overcome," she said about herself and other homeless students. Through the school she has food and clothes. She currently lives with a friend due to problems in her previous household. With the help of schools and organizations, homeless students can make the best out of being without a permanent home.
Produced by Tom Guy of The Media Guy Inc., the presentation is part of Guy’s mission to help young people be more aware of the problems they face and to handle them. Guy shows his videos, which combine images, movie clips, discussions with celebrities, news, and popular music to address the core challenges facing the youth of today, across the U.S. to school aged students and youth groups. “I try to reach the emotional level of what kids are doing right now,” said Guy. The assembly concluded with a testimony about the dangers of reckless driving from former Timber Creek student Pranjal Dahiya, who has become
a member of Guy’s organization. In 2012 Dahiya was severely injured in a car accident. “When [adults] go up there and talk, no one really listens to them because [students are] like, ‘Oh it’s a teacher,’” said Dahiya. “I can just relate to people because they’re two years younger.” Afterwards, students were given the opportunity to ask Dahiya any questions they may have had about his experience. “It was really eye-opening and it makes you think about all the decisions you’re making,” said junior Megan Peterson. “I just want people to know that it can happen to them,” said Dahiya.
Academic Spotlight
4
Reading for pleasure remains balanced Tyanna Guzman Staff Writer
With all of the required reading for courses, do students still find time to read for pleasure? In a Feb. 2014 campus survey of 443 students of all grade levels, 324 students responded to the question “How often do you read for pleasure?” The responses were fairly balanced, with 35% reading monthly, 26% reading weekly, 23% reading daily, and 16% reading yearly. When asked if they enjoyed reading, the majority of respondents from each of the four grade levels said they liked to read. The highest percentage of stu-
dents who liked to read came from the juniors with a whopping 74%. So what happens in junior year that sparks students’ love for learning? Is junior year not the hardest academic year after all? Why do juniors love to read? “I love being sucked into a new story with each book,” wrote junior Alexander Gonzalez. The other grades were split relatively evenly when it came to who liked reading. 53% of freshmen love to throw themselves into books. “Reading is like eating breakfast. You have to do both to have a great day,” wrote freshman Joey Messer. 56% percent of sophomores said yes to loving reading. “It’s like television, but the TV is in my head,” wrote soph-
omore Egypt Arnold. With senior year being the last year of high school, of all students, seniors read for pleasure the least. Maybe studying, jobs, and college planning take up all of the seniors’ extra time, but 52% of senior respondents said they liked to read for pleasure. “I love to read books because they stimulate the one part of my being that no other form of entertainment can, my imagination,” wrote senior Giovanni Rosado. When students were asked which genre of 45 presented they preferred, 60% chose mystery, and romance was the runner-up. Even though high school can be hectic, the survey showed that students often set aside time for reading.
PROCRASTINATOR’S
CORNER
Still need to register for classes? Even if you didn’t get your registration form signed, you can turn it in at the Guidance Office and/or make an appointment with your counselor.
Room 560D B-Lunch Every Tuesday
5 Sports and Athletics
Super Bowl Champ returns home Todd Akroyd Sports Editor
Mrs. Hemann and Lemuel Jeanpierre at a Seahawks practice. PHOTO/ Donated
Since winning the Super Bowl Feb. 2, Lemuel Jeanpierre has become the most famous Timber Creek alumnus since the school opened in 2001. Jeanpierre, now an offensive lineman for the Seattle Seahawks, played defensive tackle under head football coach Jim Buckridge and earned 6A first-team All-State honors. Jeanpierre was also a three-year starter on the basketball team, but clearly his future was on the gridiron. He went on to play college football at the University of South Carolina where he played in 36 games at guard and center. After five seasons as a South Caroli-
Trailblazers open door for gay teens
na Gamecock, Jeanpierre signed with the Kansas City Chiefs as an undrafted free agent. He ultimately made the Seattle Seahawks practice squad in 2010 and was moved up onto their official 53 man roster later that season before the playoffs. He made his first career NFL start as center against the Cleveland Browns during the 2011 season. In 2013 he started three more games, against the Atlanta Falcons, Indianapolis Colts, and Houston Texans. In the same year, Jeanpierre and the Seahawks went 13-3 in the regular season, and went on to win the Super Bowl. Jeanpierre will occasionally come back to Orlando and workout during the offseason while also giving back to
his community. “I love Timber Creek and all the coaches and teachers I had there,” said Jeanpierre. “Every coach has a part in where I’m at today. Mrs. Hemann does too. That lady is one of my best friends.” Positive Behavior Support dean Colleen Hemann was Jeanpierre’s “Wolf Mom” for his last three years of high school and still keeps in touch with him today. “He loves Timber Creek and all the kids. He comes back to give advice to the kids and talk about how his hard work has paid off,” said Hemann. Role model Jeanpierre may be an NFL player, but he is still the same humble, hardworking kid that walked these halls just nine years ago.
Baseball team strives for another title
Todd Akroyd Sports Editor
As support for gay rights grows, more and more athletes are opening up about their lifestyle. Last April, NBA player Jason Collins became the first active male professional athlete to come out as gay publicly. On Feb. 23, Collins became the first openly gay pro-athlete to sign a contract with a team when he signed a deal with the Brooklyn Nets. This May, NFL teams will have the opportunity to also make history by drafting Michael Sam. Sam, a consensus All-American defensive end for the University of Missouri, could be the first openly gay professional football player ever. Of course there have been professional athletes that were gay, but none of them ever came out publicly while they played. Now, two from major sports like football and basketball have come out in less than just one calendar year. Even with all the support, there are some who do not think that the world is ready for openly gay athletes. When teams draft a player like Sam, they invite the circus to town: the media. But when a team drafts a defensive end in the 3rd or 4th round, they are not going to have put up with the media circus. They can focus on their job. NFL teams hate distractions, and unfortunately for Sam, his sexual preference is one. Many believe the media attention and scrutiny could affect Sam’s on-field performance. At least that is what general managers are afraid of. Why draft someone who is in the spotlight with baggage when you could take someone just as good, operating completely under the radar?
Players practice batting the day before their next game. PHOTO/ Lauren Trevino
Lauren Trevino Features Editor
Michael Sam gets amped before the play. PHOTO/ Donated
Regardless of gay or straight, Sam is too talented to not be drafted. And with regard to him being gay, he has some of the best intangibles. He works hard. He is tough. He is a leader by mouth and by action. He is extremely well spoken. He is a winner. He is exactly who the gay community needs in professional sports. With Sam and Collins paving the way for other gay athletes to come out, their impact on future generations is bound to be tremendous. Not only do they make kids think it is socially acceptable to be gay, they tell the gay community that it’s okay to play sports. Sports like football, basketball, and baseball have had the reputation of being for tough guys. Stereotypically, gay men do not play those sports. Now that gay children and gay adolescents will grow up watching openly gay athletes play these sports, it will encourage them to play them, too. And it will encourage them to be truly who they are, while they play.
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It is typical for records to be broken and history to be made in the world of sports, though generally the competitors are the ones to set the new and improved standards. The Timber Creek varsity baseball team is trying to defy the norm by plowing ahead in an attempt to win the district champions title for the fourth straight year. “We like to say we play in an easy district but we have our challenges,” said senior Nicholas “Robby” DeCola. As reigning champs, the boys have started the season with a record of 3-3, including two preseason games, and a district record of 1-0. According to DeCola, the team dynamic is much better, contrib-
uting to their continued success. The team is led by head coach Timothy Beaman, the former JV coach. Despite the fact that it is only his first year with the varsity team, he seems to be making an impact. “This year we’ve gotten along a lot better than in past years, and I think it’s because the coach has really installed a system of teamwork,” said DeCola. Though the team is strong, they still have some things to work on. “The team is pretty well rounded but we all need to work on our mental approach,” said sophomore Peyton Skurr. With the improvements they are expecting to make, much of the team and coaching staff are confident in their abilities to bring home the title for the fourth straight year. “I think we have a really good opportunity to defend the championship,” said Beaman.
6
Spring Fever
Sring Break March
Rip tides, Mai Tais, and ‘Oh God, Whys?’ Annie Magee Copy Editor
drug/alcohol-related offenses like DUIs) will revoke scholarships, sports privileges, or even expel students. Over 650 people were arrested in three weeks during high season in Panama City’s 2012 Spring Break. Often seen as “victimless crime,” the issue is more problematic than a 20-year-old drinking a margarita on the beach. Large groups of intoxicated young people are not only breeding grounds for fatal accidents like alcohol poisoning (especially in the Florida heat) or injuries, but also become targets for more disturbing crimes. Being intoxicated in an unfamiliar place makes people easy prey for assault, abduction, sexual violence, and even homicide. Spring Break can be fun as long as students act responsibly and safely. Be wary of excess drinking, travel in groups, keep emergency cash in your hotel safe, and think before meeting up with strangers, especially at hotels (yours or theirs). By sticking together, you protect yourself and your friends, while also making memories with your favorite people that will last you well longer than next semester’s stress.
Sandals, San Sunshine State’s
Anna Maria Isla This Gulf Coast beach town has private bungalow right on the water. The island is famous for its whit and warm water. Trolleys move visitors around th Old Florida style. In the spring, sea turtles also com on the sand dunes. 2:30 hours driving from Orlan Flights avaliable from Orlando Internation to nea
Comic by Tre Blodgett
By the time March rolls around, students across the country, both in high school and college, have had enough. The general antsy feeling that another year is almost over and winter is finally gone leaves America’s young people are ready to let off some steam. These so-called “Spring Breakers” head south to the Florida coast. Unfortunately, what starts off an ideal island getaway does not always stay so peachy. In Spring Break hot-spots like Daytona, Cocoa, and Panama City beaches, crime rates and accidental deaths go up as the party rages on for an entire month. In the first three weeks of March 2012, the Panama City Police Department answered over a whopping 6,500 service calls, over twice the usual rate. That same year, over 20,000 fake I.D.s were confiscated by underage individuals trying to purchase alcohol in Daytona Beach and Panama City alone. And if that number seems high, consider the estimated 350,000 students headed to Panama City in March
2013. If those Spring Breakers were only college students, and not high schoolers, that would leave an average of around 175,000 underage partiers in a single Florida city. When a survey was conducted of female college students regarding Spring Break activities, more than half said they drank the entire day, and 40% drank until reaching unconsciousness. Binge drinking (even among students as young as 16) is widespread, and can lead to physical injury and even death. Falling from hotel balconies has long been a tragedy associated with drunken Spring Breakers. Just four years ago, the fatality of 19-year-old Christopher Grasso made national news after being killed in his Daytona Beach hotel by falling from the fifth floor. Autopsies revealed that he was highly intoxicated at the time of his death, despite being underage. His is only one of many examples of accidental death related to underage drinking that could have been prevented. Students can face severe repercussions from colleges for their actions during Spring Break “festivities.” Many colleges, upon learning about students’ arrests (especially those concerning violent crimes or
wwwwwwwwwwwwww Indie Movies at the Enzian
Watch cult classic and independent movies at The Enzian Theater in Maitland while enjoying lunch or dinner from their full-menu restaurant. -Wednesday, Mar. 19: “Blair Witch Project” -Bring blankets and lawn chairs to watch this classic 90’s horror flick under the stars -Free Admission -7:30 PM -Rated R (for students 17 and older) -Sunday, Mar. 23: “Matilda” -$5.00 admission -Special Build-Your-Own Peanut Butter Sandwich menu ($5.00 per person) -12:00 PM -Rated PG
Located at the far the epitome of Old Fl torian homes, such ernmost Point of th and the Mel Fisher M rec 8-9 Hou Flights avaliab
Spring into break in
Universal Mardi Gras Concert Series
Celebrate Mardi Gras at Universal Orlando, complete with parades, New Orleans food, beads, and a star-studded concert lineup. All events are included with park admission. -Concerts begin at 8:00 PM -Friday, Mar. 21: A Great Big World -Monday, Mar. 22: Gavin DeGraw -Saturday, Mar. 29: Weezer
r hits Orlando
h 21 - March 30
nd, and Surf in the s Best Watering Holes
7
St. Augustine: Being the oldest continuously-populated city in North America, St. Augustine has plenty to offer in sight-seeing opportunities. Historical landmarks like the Castillo de San Marcos and Flagler College are equally balanced with seaside attractions like its famed beaches and lighthouse. Take a stroll down St. George Street for ice cream, art galleries, and fun novelty shops. For those looking for spooks and scares, there are many walking and trolley ghost tours that take visitors to some of the most infamous cemeteries and horror sites in the city.
Daytona Beach:
and: ws and resorts located te powder sand beaches he barrier island in true me onto shore and nest
This Atlantic seaside playground has been a staple in Spring Break festivities for over 30 years. Countless resorts invite guests every spring to partake in surfing, swimming, and sun. Additionally, the iconic Daytona pier was renovated and reopened in 2010, providing a place for sunset-watchers and fishermen alike. Take a ride on the colorful ferris wheel or have a cookout by the beach, all while enjoying a closeto-home haven. 45 minutes driving from Orlando.
ndo. arby Sarasota, Florida.
Wekiwa Springs: One of Florida’s most famous freshwater springs, Wekiwa Springs offers nature-goers a break from the hustle and bustle of daily life, while taking a depature from the typical beach-bash vacation most Spring Breakers look for. For a small fee, visitors will be admitted to the park and able to use its amendities. Both a 13 mile hiking trail and an 8 mile horseback riding trail. For an additional fee, canoe rentals and campsites are avaliable for guests looking for a more involved visit. 40 minutes driving from Orlando.
Key West: rthest point int he Florida Keys, Key West is lorida. Here residents can visit historic Vicas the famous Hemming House, the Southhe Continental United States, Duval Street, Martime Museum, which showcases treasure covered from sunken ships. urs driving distance from Orlando. ble from Orlando International Airport.
n your own backyard
Epcot HGTV Flower & Garden Festival
wwwwwwwwwwwwww
Disney’s Epcot theme park is hosting their annual Flower & Garden Festival this spring, with countless activities for green thumbs all around. -Events include: -Gardening demonstrations -Cooking seminars with local and organic foods -Flower Power concert series -Featuring 1960s and 1970s musicians such as The Lovin’ Spoonful (Mar. 28- Mar. 30)
Blockbuster Movie Release
Break it Down
- Will be released Mar. 21 -“Divergent” -Rated: PG-13 -Director: Neil Burger -Starring: Shailene Woodley, Miles Teller, Kate Winslet, Ansel Elgort -Synopsis: In this dystopian society, Tris (Woodley) leaves her faction, Abnegation, and transfers to Dauntless where she questions herself, her society, and all she has grown up with.
Brain Food
Gulf Cart Cops by Tre Blodgett
8
9 Entertainment and Reviews Behind the Scenes of ‘Once Upon a Mattress’ Tatum Swanson Guest Writer
On the nights of Jan. 23, 24, and 25, the Timber Creek Thespians opened the curtains for a two hour comedic production titled Once Upon a Mattress, a parody of the classic tale The Princess and the Pea. Held in the Timber Creek Performing Arts Center (PAC), the entire cast, crew, and directors (seniors Chris Newton and Ruth Ann Spears) watched weeks’ worth of preparation unfold. The auditions for the production were held during the summer prior to the 2013-2014 school year. Students wishing to be placed in the Theatre Production class offered at the school were required to sing a 30 second excerpt and perform a monologue. A month later, the class members were determined based on their vocal performance, relationship and interaction with other characters, and their ability to capture the image of the character. From then on, the cast wasted no time preparing for the show. “I think it was rehearsals because [I had to be] persistent and dedicated. [There were] lots of homework; you had to know your lines and be prepared,” said freshman Grace Murphy about the most difficult part of the production.
In Stagecraft, a class where students created the set for the production, students constructed the pastel-colored castle and throne used in the show. Some students involved in the show even brought in props from home. According to Murphy, who played Princess number 12, “We couldn’t touch [the set].” Eye-catching costumes worn by the cast were handmade by Dody Horn, faculty adviser Elizabeth Horn’s mother. The dresses were ankle lengths while then men’s ensembles correlated with the women’s attire. As opening night drew close, rehearsals grew longer. Two weeks prior, the cast stayed at school, rehearsing until six in the evening. They also rehearsed all class period and performed for elementary school classes. Since there were four separate performances, they had to divide the show times between two casts, A and B. Cast A performed Thursday and Saturday night, and Cast B performed Friday night and the Saturday matinee. Inevitably, when the curtain closed the final night, the cast was proud of their performances. “After the first performance,” said freshman Ally Hettanbach, “It was really fun considering it was my first high school performance, and I got to make new friends. It was so fun working with them all to put on a great show.”
Mysteries arise in September Girls Tyanna Guzman Staff Writer
September Girls is a book of beauty and life. Written by Bennett Madison, author of The Blonde of the Joke, brings a mix of lyrical writing, complex characterization, and wry humor to this young adult novel in which the intriguing magic of fairy tales is retold. Whisked away by his father to an unusual beach town in the Outer Banks, Sam finds himself having the summer vacation most guys can only dream of. He is surrounded by beautiful blonde girls and, better yet, they all seem inexplicably attracted to him. However, Sam seems to notice that there is something strange about those Girls. Strange things like they only wear flats because heels make their feet bleed. The Girls don’t even like the water. The strangest thing to Sam is that they all want something from him. September Girls is a stunning novel about first loves, oblivious parents, sibling rivalries, and secrets. This imaginative and painfully honest book still kept me reading to the end. This is a rare and lovely novel that will rapidly capture reader’s attention. I think that this novel is exquisitely beautiful in wording. It is a haunting
The cover to Bennett Madison’s novel, September Girls.
work of magical realism. September Girls includes what most readers, including myself, love to read: drama, supernatural characters, surprises around every corner, and lingering secrets. This work of teen fiction is among several other books by Madison. The average rating for this book, according to goodreads.com is 2.96 on a scale of one to five. However, I highly disagree. Rating: four out of five stars: September Girls is worthy of a four in my mind. With a “splash” of romance, teenage rebellion, and, what I love, dark humor. September Girls left me waiting for Madison’s next book.
Miyazaki delights viewers again Tyler Andreala Section Editor
“The Wind Rises” is a new animated film from the acclaimed director Hayao Miyazaki, who created “Spirited Away” and “Howl’s Moving Castle.” The film’s new-age style and subject matter give it a special charm. The movie follows the life of Jiro Horikoshi (Joseph Gordon-Levitt) inventor of the Japanese Zero fighter plan used during World War II. The movie is adapted from a manga written by Miyazaki inspired by a short story with the same title by Tatsuo Hori. Young Jiro has grand dreams of flying an airplane. We follow Jiro through college, young adulthood, and courtship as we learn more about his ever-growing passion for aviation, which is sparked when the Italian aviator Caproni appears in his dream. Surprised to see that a Japanese boy has the same dream as himself, Caproni shares his invention ideas with Jiro and has philosophical conversations with him. On his way to college Jiro meets a French girl named Naoko Satomi (Emily Blunt) who quotes a poem from Paul Valéry: “The wind is rising. We must try to live.” This quote is repeated throughout the movie when wind is used to signal events to come. “The Wind Rises” has all of the traditional Miyazaki trademarks that viewers love so much, including zany facial expressions and memorable characters. Falling into that category is the floppy-haired Mr. Kurokawa, (Martin Short) who is Jiro’s boss at his first job. Kurokawa is a short tempered, vocal character who is also very loveable and serves as our main source of comedic relief. Unlike Miyazaki’s previous films, this one uses historical events and people as its frame instead of fictional
characters and crazy, thought-up monsters. Mixed together with a very realistic animation style, this movie has a seemingly real feeling despite the fact that it is after all animated. Setting is a huge player in this film. Jiro is faced with the fact that Japan is ten or twenty years behind the rest of the world; they still use oxen to haul their aircraft out into the field and make their planes out of wood. Despite progress in the creation of the airplane Japan needs, he knows that it will be used for war and dislikes this thought. With this in mind “The Wind Rises” has anti-war roots, but sticks to the journey of Jiro. His drive to create a beautiful aircraft is hindered by the wants and desires of his colleagues and countrymen. This is the real challenge that Jiro faces as he goes through trial and error to come up with the perfect aircraft, while trying to balance this with his personal life, he is caught in the middle. “The Wind Rises” is another masterpiece in the Miyazaki collection. Combining a clear and well-written story with beautiful presentation and a lovely French-inspired soundtrack, this tale of determination has you phasing through emotions as you cheer for Jiro to complete his life-long dream.
Break it Down Rating:PG-13 Starring: Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Emily Blunt, John Krasinski Director: Hayao Miyazaki Rotten Tomatoes: 88%
Opinion and Editorial 10 MEET THE TIMBER CREEK
TRIBUNE
STAFF
Sponsor: Kimberly Dobson Editor-in-Chief: Reyna Perez Copy Editor: Annie Magee Section Editors: Todd Akroyd, Tyler Andreala, Brittany Crary, Lauren Trevino Writers: Tyanna Guzman Guest writer: Tatum Swanson Cartoonist: Tre Blodgett
How to make it in America:
What teenagers don’t know about life after home
Moving out of a childhood home as a young adult can be exciting, enthralling, nerve-wracking, and above all, harder than it looks. It does not take long for the dream of independence and freedom to turn into a huge pile of laundry in the corner of your apartment and nothing but Top Ramen in your stomach. The transition is often bumpy and full of pitfalls (usually ones that can cause more havoc that one would ever expect), but maybe there is something that schools can do to help prevent this coming-of-age chaos. Timber Creek, and other public schools in the state, should require a class that teaches students how to be successful in life, at home, and in the office. Traditionally, high schools across America have offered courses like Home Economics (or the more “PC” Family and Consumer Sciences) where students were taught how to mend shirts, bake pies, and sometimes even balance their checkbooks. But the new generation needs a class that prepares them for life in the 21st century after they leave the comfort of their parents’ homes, and the school system has a responsibility to do just that. Of 350 polled Timber Creek students, only 36% said they had completed a course relating to Life Skills, citing specific credentials like CPR certification or participation in local scouting troops. Instead of covering one or two abilities, Life Skills would offer a range of necessary (and often not really considered) topics, from keeping a home to buying a car to knowing when and when not to open just one more credit card. Many students felt very confident in their abilities to maintain a home by themselves. A whopping 78% of students gave themselves a six or higher out of ten on the subject, with 38% giving themselves an eight or above. Some things seemed to be mastered by a majority of students, such as cooking a meal and doing laundry. But when daily tasks were broken down, many students did not feel confident with important responsibilities. 50% did not feel confident in changing a tire (31% gave themselves a one out
of five) and 62% were uncomfortable completing household repairs. Perhaps the most important units in the course would be concerning the two of the biggest focuses in society: personal financing and building a career. The National Housing Federation recently released a survey stating that 27% of adults have at least one of their adult children living with them. That is the highest percentage since 1996, longer than most high school students have been alive. And the cause? Twothirds of these parents blame the high costs of living away from home. In a time of economic distress in America, it is more important than ever that young people learn how to manage their money wisely and get (and keep) a sustainable job. Teachers will help shed light on topics like interview professionalism, office expectations, and how to find a position that allows for growth or builds a professional network. Here’s where most Timber Creek students seem to struggle. 56% were not comfortable in maintaining a checking account, 46% did not know how to write a resume, and over 82% were unable to file their taxes. All these benchmarks are supposedly covered in various classes already required by Timber Creek for graduation, such as English and Economics, but are clearly not being addressed completely. Some students chose to ignore these factors based on the fact that it is too late for them to learn. One student said, “I really don’t care, I’m a senior.” Others had their eyes opened the difficulties and challenges of living on their own. Senior Carlos Ramos said, “I would like to learn about how expensive life is when you live by yourself.” This is a real problem with our generation and the next. Students heading off into the real world should know what it takes to be independent and be able to execute the tasks that are necessary when living alone. These are skills that can help young adults excel and succeed when life becomes a reality, an important reason why a course teaching these abilities should be included in the typical high school curriculum.
11
Opinion and Editorial
‘Green rush’ coming to the Sunshine State
Todd Akroyd Section Editor
Unaware of its medical benefits and blinded by the federal government’s view of right versus wrong, some consider marijuana a joke. Federal law still considers marijuana more dangerous than cocaine and methamphetamine. The DEA classifies it as a schedule 1 drug, signifying a belief that marijuana has no medicinal value
Comic by Tre Blodgett and can lead to potentially severe psychological or physical dependence. Unlike an array of other schedule 1 substances, cannabis has been approved in 21 states and Washington D.C. for medicinal purposes. Two states, Washington and Colorado, have even gone as far as legalizing it for recreational use. On Friday, Jan. 24, a ballot that would
legalize medical marijuana in Florida gathered over one million signatures and will be presented to voters next fall. According to a Quinnipiac University poll, 82% of Florida voters support the legal use marijuana for medical use by adults if prescribed by a doctor. By the end of 2014, the “Green Rush” currently sweeping across the west coast could be coming to Florida. More conservative Floridians against legalization might be nervous for the 2014 vote, but for the millions that have waited years for their medicine to become legal, the vote can’t come fast enough. “I hate that I can’t just get my medicine legally,” says a Timber Creek graduate and current Full Sail student. “I think medical marijuana should have been legalized a long time ago. It works better than the prescription my doctors give me and it’s safer. I can’t overdose.” This alumnus with the neurological disorder epilepsy experiences seizures that can range from completely unnoticeable to stretches of relentless shaking. Many people are unaware of just how many conditions cannabis can
help treat. Marijuana has been known to help people with serious conditions like HIV/AIDS, Alzheimer’s disease, cancer, epilepsy, anorexia, Crohn’s Disease, glaucoma, multiple sclerosis, fibromyalgia, Parkinson’s disease, Huntington’s disease, and Tourette’s syndrome. However, marijuana has also been used to treat lesser issues like nausea, anxiety, depression, migraine headaches, pain, insomnia, and arthritis. Clearly marijuana is a viable option for patients across the state, and Florida would benefit both medically and economically if voters say “yes.” By alleviating pain and painful symptoms, creating jobs, and filling vacant retail spaces with dispensaries, an influx of tax money will benefit our state. The hope for legalization was once just a distant dream, but Floridians can now see legalization as a serious possibility. With the political push for marijuana over the last 10 years creating a “Green Rush” that has finally touched Florida, it is no longer a question of if medical marijuana will be legalized, but a question of when.
Bus accidents affect student’s peace of mind
An Open Letter by Tyanna Guzman Every time my bus hits a bump in the road, passes a traffic sign, or even turns a corner, I already have a scream built up in my throat. A scream that is ready to come out in the next school bus accident. On Sept. 18, my bus hit a metal sign at 7:09 in the morning on Avalon Park Boulevard. There were around 30 students on board. The side front window was shattered, showering glass on my peers and I. That day, three of us suffered minor concussions, a girl got glass in her eye, and a few of us had cuts from the shards of glass. We learned that the bus driver we had that day was a cancer patient. Every Tuesday she got chemotherapy. It was a Wednesday when we got into an accident, a day after her treatment. I’ve had trouble feeling safe on the
school bus since then, and getting into another accident on my bus on Feb. 5 did not help. We were approaching Stoneybrook on South Alafaya Trail when a road machine working with a construction team in front of us gave the signal to pass him on the left. As we passed the machine it unexpectedly swerved left on us. Metal bent loudly and, once again, we were showered with shattered glass. Some of us sobbed. I was halfway off my seat since we don’t wear seatbelts on the bus. I was taken to the hospital, suffering from a panic attack. After a long wait with no end in sight, some of the students just walked home since no one took charge. When I ride the bus every day I look out of the window, worried that at any moment we could be in another school
The destruction of the bus accident on Alafaya Trail. PHOTO/ David Steinfeldt
bus accident. I no longer feel safe on the bus during my commutes to and from school. I believe that buses should be better
and that we, as students, should be better taken care of.
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