The Lariat, November 2016

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COWBOYS TAKE DISTRICTS IN SPORTS, SPORTS, AND...

MORE SPORTS! How our football, volleyball, cross country, swimming, and golf teams tell their stories of triumph.

ALL THINGS ART, REALITY, AND PERSONABLE PEOPLE

Pg. 22-23

Into the worlds of Grehan Edmunds and Madison Gailboord, their art, and their aspirations.

Pg. 14-15

TO STAND OR NOT TO STAND, THAT IS THE QUESTION Understanding whether students should stand for the Pledge of Allegiance takes time, patience, and multiple staff writers.

Pg. 12-13

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4: An analysis of SBBC

NEWS

Cooper City High School is more than the sum of its parts.

The Lariat, too, cannot be easily separated: 24 staff members, 11 writers, 7 district awards, 5 sports writers 5 editors, 2 photographers, 2 Managing Editors, 1 Editor-in-Chief, and 1 (awesome) advisor.

“offensive shirts” ban 5: Band makes a statement with competition show 6: Introducing Naviance, a new guidance tool 6: Harvest Drive is back in town 7: Welcoming our new Cafeteria Manager

OPINIONS

8: HOCO proposals are fun and harmless 9: Why voting is important 10: Are intellectual safe spaces ever justified?

11: A guide to the Broward ballot 12-13: Standing for the Pledge

FEATURES

14: Madison Gailboord: a

modern artist 15: Grehan Edmunds: an unconventional artist 16: Jeremy Brower: Quizlet hero 17: Nikki Tjin a Djie: a local hero 18: Landon Counts: math, music, and all things country 19: Brent Pappas: unlocking the code

ENTERTAINMENT

20: The Lariat’s guide to Fall TV 21: You’ll be Amaized by this local

restaurant 21: Catch the CCHS Thespians at Picasso at the Lapin Agile

SPORTS

22: Golf closes the season

So, today, we invite you to be more than a member of the crowd.

We invite you to speak up.

In this issue, The Lariat invites you to speak up.

Don’t just say things louder; say them with conviction.

Don’t just take a stand; stand tall. Say what you feel, and act as you are, because the greatest thing that we can learn from high school isn’t the pythagorean theorem or every last line of Romeo and Juliet - it’s the power of expression.

Imagine what sort of brilliant things exist within your classmates’ minds. The turning gears could produce a Nobel prize-winning hypothesis, a grammy-winning song, or a knock-knock joke that brings knock-knock jokes back into style. You’ll never know if students don’t speak up. Each of us has the right to share our candid personalities and musings with the world, to add a brush stroke to the massive modern masterpiece that we are a part of. In this issue, we see that some of Cooper City High School’s students have mastered the art of physically speaking up. We see that others have learned that speaking up doesn’t always require talking, and choose to convey ideas on canvases, fields, stages, and paper. Regardless of how you choose to do it, seize the opportunity to paint Cooper City High School in the colors of your unique experiences and perspectives. It will undoubtedly turn out beautiful.

We hope you enjoy the issue.

undefeated 22: Volleyball makes districts 23: Varsity football goes to playoffs 23: 15 swimmers go to regionals 23: Cross Country competes in regional tournament

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NEWS

Breaking the rules Understanding the policy against “offensive” shirts

BY TAMARAH WALLACE Staff Writer

In the 2016 political and social climate, controversial views are clearly expressed and forthright, forming a platform for worldwide debate.

Consequently, Cooper City High School students don’t just state their stance on a topic - they also depict it on their clothing.

Therefore, clothing that is deemed offensive by students and faculty pose a critical question- whether or not their “sense of self-expression” should be quelled.

Wendy Schauben, who has seen her fair share of disputatious situations as Cooper’s Speech and Debate coach, had much to say about the issue.

“Everyone is entitled to their own

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then make their evaluations about whether the shirt abides by the rules,” U.S. History Teacher and National Honor Society sponsor Dwayne Dixon said.

So while most social issues are banned from clothing, political views are seemingly not, meaning that with the infamous 2016 election looming near, students are free to wear the logos and slogans of the campaign they support.

However, the question of education, safety, and offense are eminent.

“Our job as educators is to prepare for the future because in the workplace, students will need to dress appropriately,” Assistant Principal Perkovic said. “There is a time and a place for everything and we

People should be allowed to express themselves but education should always come first.

views and they need to be able to express them in an environment that is safe and educated,” Schauben said.

In regards to the procedure for handling controversial shirts, administration offered to shed some light.

“Students whose clothing is deemed offensive will be subject to the dress code violation rules outlined in the student codebook,” Assistant Principal Vera Perkovic said.

Evidently, the school board has enacted rules regarding clothing and what is acceptable by law.

As per the 2016-2017 code of conduct, “clothing... or other items or markings which are suggestive, revealing, or indecent, associated with gangs or cults, encourage the use of drugs, alcohol, or violence, or support discrimination on the basis of age, color, disability, ethnicity, gender, gender identity, gender expression” are strictly prohibited. They go on to clarify that “suggestive, revealing and indecent refer to exposure of private body parts and/or pictures or words with a sexual connotation.”

If there is any doubt about whether the shirt is considered offensive, specific measures will be taken.

“The county board will take each disturbance on a case by case basis and will

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really need to show respect to our school and express Cowboy Pride.”

With that, CCHS administration and teachers aim to put education and the betterment of the student before all.

“We can’t grow if we are causing conflict,” Schauben said. “People should be allowed to express themselves but education should always come first.”

Students also seem to reflect those same views of education, safety, and tolerance.

“I think... [controversial shirts] are something to welcome because it opens up conversation about what is going on in the world presently and people will learn how to tolerate other’s views,” Senior Kia Del Solar said.

Another student shared her opinions, highlighting the value of impartiality and respect.

“We go to school to learn, not create possible issues for the school, others, and ourselves and the wearers are choosing to wear the shirt at their own discretion,” Junior Challet Jeong said. “Whether I like what the shirt depicts or says or not, it’s a method of self-expression that everyone should respect, regardless of your own beliefs. It’s normal to feel offended, but everyone should be given the respect to express what they think and believe.”

Visit thelariatonline.com! thelariatonline.com | 4

All my Pepes are rare Now all my worries are gone While the days seem so short The nights forever, are long As I browse my dashboard All the songs of sorrow go away The night seems so much like day I pray, Pepe, “Please don’t go away!”

Paid for by Zachary Perrotta

NEWS

Breaking Tradition

CCHS Sound of Pride uses competition show to document the struggle of the African American community

BY KARINA BLODNIEKS Editor-in-Chief

In a climate of social unrest, CCHS’ very own Sound of Pride Marching band has made a statement about the progress of the African-American community.

This year, the Sound of Pride debuted a competition show called The Right which was written by former band director Chandler Wilson and highlights the progress of the black community from the Civil Rights era to the current Black Lives Matter movement. In CCHS history, the marching band has never used their show to make a statement like this. Previous shows have covered topics such as film, the wild west, and the cycles of the moon.

“The overall tone of the show is very real and grim,” Band Captain Juan Mayz said. “It’s about the reality people faced back then. We are highlighting the

Photo by Saige Griffin

struggle that African American people have faced.”

With “A Movement for Rosa” being their central song, the Sound of Pride is using dissonant chords to musically represent the harsh reality the black community faced during the Civil Rights movement. In their opening scene, the Color Guard rushes out with their hands up, making various signs referencing black history.

“Our body movements are going to be very descriptive of police holding riot shields,” Mayz said. “Part of the Color Guard is going to come in with hand signals such as Black Lives Matter, black power, or a sort of ‘hands up, don’t shoot’ motion, as we see in a lot of real places where there’s actual riots going on and actual violence.”

From beginning to end, the show

highlights adversity in particular. Using gray flags at the beginning, the music progresses to slowly paint a happier image of the movement, eventually ending with colorful flags. Musically, the ending of the show is up to interpretation, leaving some on a despondent note and others feeling hopeful.

“In my personal opinion, our most important portrayal is that we have hope that one day we can all look past racial divides and discrimination and get along,” Color Guard Co-Captain Dawson Worley said.

Drum Major Morgan Malan says that this vague ending is intentional.

“The show ends on neither [a positive or negative note], so it just leaves you with an eerie, incomplete feeling,” Malan said. “It’s supposed to prove the point that, yeah, we’ve come a long way,

and whether we’re all good now is up to the audience, but it’s definitely not complete.”

While the original intent is up in the air, the vast interpretations point to the success of the show as a work of art.

“I think that all of our history books paint the Civil Rights movement as negative,” Malan said. “I just think this is a different way of presenting [the movement].”

Regardless of interpretation, one thing is certain: this is a groundbreaking moment for the Sound of Pride.

“I don’t think we’ve had a show this real before,” Mayz said. “We’ve always based it on pieces of music, but never on a topic that is so controversial.”

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NEWS

CCHS introduces Naviance

Guidance incorporates the Family Connection program to communicate with students

BY SKYLER JONES-BOXWELL Print Editor

This year, in an effort to promote college and career preparation, every student now has access to the software provider Naviance, a service with many useful tools to help students advance through high school and beyond. Through “Family Connection,” guidance counselors now have an easy method to review the progress of and communicate with students to better suit their needs.

“We want them to start thinking about college, thinking about where they want to go, start building their resumés through there because it gives them a quick link on what to do,” 11th Grade Guidance Counselor Carol Lopez said.

Purchased by the school district last year, Naviance gives CCHS students easy access to college searches, scholarship applications, and career matches that align student interests with post-secondary goals, as stated on Naviance’s official website.

Students can effectively plan for college

by finding courses and internships, as well as identifying their personal strengths and interests, in order to develop a career pathway best suited for them. In addition, students are granted a personal planner for use in completing tasks on the path to college readiness, some of which have been assigned by the school’s guidance counselors.

“[High schools students are] told throughout their life that “college, college, college” is the answer, and it is,” Career and Success Advisor Danielle Ramirez said. “But I think there is a lot of different colleges that you can choose from that are specific to the student as an individual, and I think the system allows students to have the chance to...make a better decision for the college of their choice.”

Tasks assigned to students may include taking an interest inventory to give insight on a student’s strengths and hobbies, viewing various career clusters that give in-

depth information on a multitude of jobs, or even searching for colleges through a search feature that provides a list of colleges tailored directly to a student’s specifications.

“It does a lot of the research for you so you don’t have to spend hours on the internet,” 10th Grade Guidance Counselor Theresa Sullivan said. “There’s plenty of things that we’re going to be adding to it so that it becomes more useful and more able to do what you need it to do.”

Cooper City High wasn’t the first to implement this program. Founded in 2002, Naviance has reportedly reached “over 7 million students at nearly 8,500 schools in 100 countries.” Schools have reported an increase in 30 percent of students who have college and career plans, and a 6 percent increase in students attending a four-year college.

“Schools across the nation use it, so it’s not just Broward County, it’s not just

Florida.” Ms. Lopez said. “It’s something that all the very popular, private schools have.”

To visit the school’s Family Connection website go to http:// connection.naviance.com/Coopercity, or just look under the “Quick Links” heading on the school’s official website.

Accessing Naviance requires students to use their student number as their username (06********), and their birthday as their password (MM/DD/YYYY).

“My goal is that students identify all those important things that they’re working so hard towards earlier in the game so that the end result is a lot less stressful and more impactful because they know that they’ve made an educated decision,” Mrs. Ramirez said.

It’s the time for giving

CCHS brings back the fall Harvest Drive to give goods to underpriviledged families

BY KENDYL COUNTS Print Managing Editor

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Photo by Benjamin Milgram

It’s all about community. We want to have a service-oriented culture where people care about helping others less fortunate.

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When fall rolls around each year, so do the canned goods.

Cooper City High School’s 2016 Harvest Drive will be collecting donations through personalization classes until November 10th. Each personalization teacher will have a list available for students, detailing exactly which items are most needed at the time. To avoid having an excess of one item and a shortage of another, students are encouraged to check the needs list before donating. Still, any donations will be appreciated.

Projects like the Harvest Drive serve as reality checks for many CCHS students, reminding them to be thankful for what they have - a fitting message to spread just in time for Thanksgiving. Philanthropic experiences like these are often essential to developing awareness of the condition of the community. By bringing attention to the needs of peers, the Harvest Drive is among the many programs at Cooper City High School that cause positive change.

However, administration stresses the importance of participation by the whole student body for the effects of the Harvest Drive to reach their maximum potential.

“The power of the Harvest Drive is in our numbers,” Assistant Principal Mrs. Perkovic said in an email. “By each of us sharing a little, we create a very large result. Each [student] is a key ingredient to the success of the Harvest Drive.”

According to Mrs. Perkovic, the Harvest Drive teaches students two

meaningful lessons: the importance of intergenerational cooperation for the improvement of the community, and the value of showing compassion to those who need it most. Though Cooper City High School’s teachers and administrators will be providing guidance during the project, she hopes to see students use this opportunity to display their leadership skills and make a difference in the lives of others.

The Harvest Drive benefits over a hundred families in Broward County and helps them put food on the table through the autumn months. Some of the recipients of this kindness are Cooper City High School students themselves, classmates whose families are in need of some relief. By encouraging students to donate, the CCHS staff hopes to foster a charitable environment within and beyond the classroom walls.

“It’s all about community,” Assistant Principal Mr. Pluim said. “We want to have a service-oriented culture where people care about helping others less fortunate.”

The goal for Harvest Drive this year is to collect enough items for 120 families - a goal that has good prospects given the achievements of last year.

“Last year was an awesome Harvest Drive year here at Cooper thanks to [everyone’s selfless efforts,” Mrs. Perkovic said. “I look forward to another successful year.”

NEWS

A new face to CCHS food

CCHS welcomes Modestina Cariati as Cafeteria Manager

BY SABRINE BRISMEUR Staff Writer

Cooper City High School’s gray brick cafeteria walls and cardboard food trays may seem a long way from the soft wooded walls and hand-made calzones of Pembroke Pines’s beloved [Bru-sket-ta] Italian Caffé, but CCHS’ new cafeteria manager, Modestina Cariati is looking to change all that.

Cariati was born in Cosenza and raised in the mountainous town of Rota Greca, Italy. It was here in Europe where she met her husband and had two daughters before moving with her family to the United States in 2000. Though her husband opened two restaurants after their move to Florida, Cariati has never fully been in the restaurant business, preferring to work with children at public schools around Broward County while her husband managed restaurants.

“I was never in the restaurant business,” Cariati said. “I make pastries at Brusketta, which is my second job. I’m a wedding planner, too,” she added, laughing.

Her history as a cafeteria manager is extensive: Cariati graduated from Miami’s prestigious Le Cordon Bleu Culinary Arts school in 2008, before making the drastic switch to work at Weston’s Falcon Cove Middle School. She worked at the middle school for eleven years before pursuing a manager position, where she interned as a sub-manager at various high schools, before getting the cafeteria manager position at Indian Ridge Middle School in Davie three years ago. But it didn’t take long before Cariati developed a love for high schoolers after interning around Broward.

“When I was an intern manager, I worked at high schools — you can have a little freedom. The age of the kids is great, and operating the whole thing is rewarding,” Cariati said. “They’re more grown up, you can talk to them, and you can relate to them better than the little kids.”

Subsequently, when a spot at Cooper City High opened up, Cariati was there -- but only with the assurance that trusted assistant cafeteria manager Denise Agostini would run Cooper’s massive cafeteria operation alongside her.

“She’s done a fantastic job the first month here, and all the employees and staff like her,” Agostina said about her coworker.

“She’s looking to make the food more presentable and appealing, and she always works with a smile.”

With Cariati’s vast experience in the food services industry and over qualifications, she has no qualms about mixing things up. This year, she reopened Sweet Treats, the outside food bar, where she serves specialties such as vegan sandwiches, hummus and chips, and ice cream. While drinks such as Gatorade and Naked Juice smoothies are also available, Cariati isn’t stopping there.

“I plan on opening another stand for tea and other drinks — it would alleviate the line for the kids who come around just to get water,” explained Cariati, outlining her

current plans for CCHS’ cafeteria. “And I know some of the [cafeteria] food was not particularly appealing… We have great food, so we just need to be on top of people to make sure they’re preparing it the right way.”

Though transforming Cooper’s cafeteria is a work in progress, Cariati’s passion for food has not gone unnoticed by neither students nor faculty, who have noted a change in the quality of cafeteria food. Her work ethic, dedication, and management skills have had a clear impact on Cooper City High School.

“I’m excited about the changes Ms. Cariati has been making in the cafeteria,” Spanish teacher Lindsay Roberts said. “It’s especially nice to see that she’s offering some vegetarian and vegan options. The hummus wrap is very good!”

Unsurprisingly, some have questioned her decision to work as a cafeteria manager at a high school with such qualifications as hers. But for Cariati, the motivation is clear: more than anything, she values the freedom and reward that working as a cafeteria manager brings. Wearing black sneakers and her hair pulled into a bun, Cariati is reminiscent of an active bird, preferring to dart around the cafeteria instead of merely walking. Her enthusiasm for her job is contagious.

“I love this job because it gives me time for my kids. I’m home with them whenever there’s no school. You can’t do that with other businesses,” said Cariati. “I love Cooper City. I mean, I’m here for every event, and my best friends live here.”

Seventeen years in the foodservice has brought both challenges and accomplishments to Cariati. In working as a cafeteria manager, she has found that her favorite part is dealing with people. Citing one of the best moments of her day as being able to turn a student’s day upside with her food, Cariati isn’t shy about how much she enjoys her work.

“I respect everybody, and they respect me back and work better because of it,” said Cariati. “But the job is very difficult when someone is missing, because you need to step up and do theirs too, and do it right.

It doesn’t matter how many people are missing that day.”

And though Cariati’s pizza may be among favorites of students and restaurateurs alike, she has a very specific favorite food in mind: something surprisingly far from her Italian roots.

“Sushi. Definitely sushi,” said Cariati. “I like pizza, but I don’t eat it much.”

At the end of the day, Cooper City High School is fortunate to have found a cafeteria manager who values her work and the people involved so highly. Cariati’s earnest attitude and fresh approach to providing meals for the staff and students of CCHS will bring about a round of changes only achieved through true dedication and love for one’s work.

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OPINIONS

HOCO?

Over-the-top Homecoming proposals are harmless, fun, and unifying

BY SOPHIA WENGIER Staff Writer

A person with a bouquet of roses stands in the courtyard. Behind him, a sign with painted letters is held, displaying a witty play on words and a simple question.

A crowd gathers, cameras out, and erupts into cheers as the couple hugs, confirming the acceptance of this classic homecoming proposal.

This is not an unfamiliar scene to any Cooper City High School student. In the weeks leading up to the homecoming dance, signs and flowers pop up left and right every day. While some might think that these proposals tend to be overplayed or cliché, most can agree that they affect the student body in a very positive way.

Homecoming proposals are an outlet for student expression and can show the different personalities and interests of the student body. They often contain elements of what those involved are passionate about. For example, a proposal could include aspects from a favorite TV show or movie. It’s a simple way for students to get creative about who and what they like.

“Homecoming proposals are a way to ask someone to Hoco in a way that’s meaningful in your own specific relationship,” Senior Rachel Seng said.

While expressing passions, a student might choose to involve a school activity. This can include band, chorus, sports, and any other extracurriculars that one might be a part of. Proposals of this nature bring attention to the talent and activities Cooper City offers. Watching the drum line play or seeing a sign with a pun about volleyball brings awareness to these activities. This is beneficial to the students who are a part of those activities, those who

are searching for something to join, and those who enjoy observing what the school offers.

“When I see homecoming proposals that involve the drum line or the band it makes me feel proud,” Sophomore Janina Mulling said. “As a band member, I’m proud to be a part of someone’s special and memorable moment.”

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Homecoming proposals are endearing to see. They make me look forward to the fall season of school.

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Being able to get excited about homecoming proposals - whether it’s because you’re asking someone, being asked, or just watching - can provide variety to the routine of a normal school day. Going to homecoming or not, proposals are just cute. Seeing someone with a sign and a bouquet of flowers doesn’t fail to put a smile on one’s face and can give students an opportunity to stop worrying about the test they have tomorrow or all the homework they have, even for a moment.

“Homecoming proposals are endearing to see,” Senior Kaylee Surgoine said. “They make me look forward to the fall season of school.”

Photos submitted by individual students

Proposals also assist in uniting the student body. Standing in the crowd of onlookers, sharing the excitement and suspense of those wondering who the proposal is for and how they are going to react, is a feeling that can make one feel closer to their fellow Cowboys and more comfortable in their environment. It brings together students of all grades and groups because the event and proposals are school-wide - and because no one can resist a crowd.

Attendance at school-wide events can also be encouraged and promoted by these proposals. Since proposals are commonplace at football games, one might choose to attend so they don’t miss out on the excitement.

Along with this, many might feel more inclined to go to homecoming if they know that someone could ask them in a special way.

Some argue that homecoming proposals have become too hyped up and over the top. However, the truth of the matter is that even if they can be perceived as over the top, they’re harmless. Homecoming proposals get people excited. They spread positive ideas about companionship and allow people to be expressive in big ways without feeling like they’re committing to anything too serious.

Homecoming is part of the high school experience. One of the best parts of being in high school is all the memories that are created, characterized by great friends, success, and excitement. The homecoming dance and proposals can contribute to that and become moments that one remembers for the rest of their life.

OPINIONS

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BY SABRINE BRISMEUR Staff Writer

With the upcoming 2016 election, some Cooper City High School seniors are afforded the opportunity to vote for the next president of the United States on November 8th. But despite the almost given importance of voting, the turnout rate for the 18-24 year old demographic, though prone to fluctuation, has remained relatively low. Young voters have historically held the lowest rates of electoral participation, bordering between turnout rates of 50.9% at best and 32% at worst from 1964 to 2012, according to a 2014 analysis from the Census Bureau.

“Whether you choose to vote for one of multiple candidates doesn’t mean anything because it represents who you are in a democracy,” Senior Jesse Klauber said.

“It drives the United States.”

Senior Nikki Tjin a Djie agreed.

“It’s essential for democracy to work,” she said.

“It’s crucial we vote for everything in a general election, but we also have to be knowledgeable about what we’re voting for -- not just who you’re voting for when you side with a candidate.”

Yet the politically aware attitudes of these seniors are not the majority. One thing is clear in the midst of America’s most controversial election cycle: part of this enormous gap in voting participation must be due to the attitude many young voters have towards political involvement. The active voting population is far smaller than the eligible voting population, and for the United States to reach its full democratic potential, the eligible population needs to become the voting population.

“Voting is especially important this year. I don’t think there has ever been a year as critical as this year,” American History teacher Dwayne Dixon said. “It doesn’t matter who you’re voting for, but kids, adults -- everyone needs to get out and vote.”

The seniors eligible to vote at Cooper City High School are part of the most underrepresented demographic of voters, but arguably one of the most important. As the youngest adult citizens of the United States, this generation is responsible for shaping the future of their own lives, and America as a whole. Consequently, political ideals should reflect more of the values of the young adult population.

But when young voters don’t participate in the election process, “representative” democracy is no longer truly representative. The youth vote continues to be left out, and their population remains frustrated -- yet by no fault except their own for not voting.

“If you don’t vote, you can’t complain. That’s the reality,” Dixon added. “People complain about our

government all the time, but they refuse to participate.”

By voting, students also pay respect to the people who have worked hard to gain the vote. Originally, the US Constitution reserved the right to vote for only wealthy, land-owning white men. Over time, tireless protests, and endless campaigns, voting rights were secured by those looked down upon by society: Native Americans, African Americans, and women, to name a few. Voting is a civic duty and an honorable act which pays homage to the activists who rallied so hard for voting rights.

Citizens of the United States are fortunate to be able to vote at all. Countries around the world do not offer voting to all their citizens, whether it’s due to lacking funds or dismal human rights. Even more countries do offer voting, but work around it through intimidation, or by creating regulations so difficult to abide by, the suppressed population is realistically unable to vote at all.

“Voting is one of the principle differences between the United States and any other country in the world,” Klauber said. “It’s what makes us different -- there are places where people don’t get the right to vote.”

Cooper City’s seniors should take full advantage of the opportunity presented to them and vote on the

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If there’s ever been a time for people to realize how important voting is, it’s this election cycle, and I hope people take heed and vote.

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presidential election on November 8th, and during future local elections as well. Youth voting is a civic duty that is vital for a true democracy, and a healthy country.

“If there’s ever been a time for people to realize how important voting is, it’s this election cycle, and I hope people take heed and vote,” Dixon said.

Honestly, this election is just one big joke. Both of the candidates aren’t really suited for the presidential position, and I don’t feel as if either of them would be able to fully pick up where Obama left off. Both of the candidates, in my eyes, aren’t suited for the presidency, but I can’t deal with Trump. So if I could vote, I would vote for Hillary.

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-Jennifer Maldonado

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The election outlines the weaknesses of America’s voting system -- it creates a divide in our society and the electoral college is no longer relevant for today’s times. I support Donald Trump.

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-Andy Hinsche

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EDITORIALS

In an intellectual environment, is censorship ever justified?

The case against the move toward “intellectual safe spaces”

BY KENDYL COUNTS Print Managing Editor

University of Chicago dean Jay Ellison kicked off the new school year in a controversial way. Upon opening their mailboxes, many of the university’s incoming freshmen were shocked to find a letter denouncing “trigger-warnings” and the creation of “intellectual safe spaces, where individuals can retreat from ideas at odds with their own.” Though triggerwarnings and safe spaces have value as social agreements, they have no place in a classroom where students have but one task: to expand the scope of their awareness.

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Intellectual safe spaces are the equivalent of plugging your ears during an argument - they promote a disconnect between the two viewpoints, in which one side prevails while the other is silenced.

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Trigger warnings are commonly used to shield people from sensitive topics that may revive troubling memories, and safe-spaces are environments created to be a secure setting where people can express themselves freely. Both involve an inherent level of censorship - often in safe spaces, there is an implicit agreement that some things should simply remain unspoken to ensure comfort for members. Trigger warnings, by similar virtue, are a way of marking a word or topic so that it’s avoided in conversation to prevent uneasiness among those hearing it.

When used sparingly and responsibly, both trigger warnings and safe spaces can create a comfortable atmosphere where individuals can openly discuss their experiences without fear of judgement by their peers.

Cooper City High School’s LGBT+ Club perfectly exemplifies an effective safe space, in which the members can voice their feelings in a secure, non-threatening setting.

However, in an academic environment, safe spaces can impede healthy discussion. Intellectual safe spaces are the equivalent of plugging your ears during an argument - they promote a disconnect between the two viewpoints, in which one side prevails while the other is silenced. Their application extends most directly to political, social, and moral conflicts - discussions in which many find a perspective so offensive that they are unwilling to listen to any possible explanation. This attitude perpetuates close-mindedness and prevents the free flow

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of information; in the process of stifling the ideas of certain students because they make others uncomfortable, valid points and new conclusions can be withheld and overlooked.

Many classes by their very nature entail discussion of delicate topics. A criminal law professor, for example, might find trigger warnings to be a hindrance in their class because they are covering sensitive material.

Cooper City High School’s Holocaust Studies elective or World History classes may include content that troubles some students but is important to know when holistically examining the world’s history. Similarly, teaching students how to discuss different perspectives is a core part of the curriculum of many classes, ranging from English to AP Capstone: Seminar. In these instances, use of a safe space could cause some students to feel as though the side they’ve taken on an issue is being protected, while others might feel that their opinion is being suppressed.

Differing opinions and the obligation to communicate them are an essential part of a functioning society. The University of Chicago asks that all students are “engaged in rigorous debate, discussion, and even disagreement” to preserve the community’s “diversity of opinion.” This lack of restriction on what students are permitted to express ensures that students are exposed to a wide variety of ideas, enriching their field of knowledge and teaching them how to defend their stance on issues. The challenge of facing opposing ideas forces individuals to define their own - an experience that is necessary for personal and academic growth.

Though the university itself refuses to be considered a “safe space,” addressing what students are uncomfortable with can still be managed on an individual basis.

Individual clubs, meetings, and organizations within the university are not barred from identifying as safe spaces, and what students find to be triggering can be avoided under many circumstances.

“In High School, because you are required to take many classes, people shouldn’t be required to sit through things they really don’t want to,” CCHS Junior Caleb Neale said. “However, in college you get to choose your classes and professors and therefore it’s your own fault for picking a class with content you don’t want to hear.”

At Cooper City High School, students should have the option to seek secure situations where they do not have to worry about others challenging their opinions. In the classroom, though, where some sets of ideals might outnumber and eclipse others, it is important to remember that everyone is entitled to free speech and unrestricted thought for the purpose of academic gain.

EDITORIALS

A Guide to the Broward Ballot EXERCISE YOUR RIGHTS.

Senatorial Race:

Patrick E. Murphy (D)- A member of the U.S. House of Representatives from Florida’s 18th district, Murphy is endorsed by President Barack Obama and Vice President Joe Biden. Among his many positions, Patrick Murphy is in favor of tightening gun control, and wants to uphold Obama’s Supreme Court appointment as well as the Affordable Care Act.

Bruce Nathan (NPA)- Bruce Nathan is running on a platform rooted in combating corruption in Washington, proudly proclaiming is is endorsed by “all who are tired of party politics.” Among his many positions, Nathan is wary of gun control and wishes to uphold the Constitution, feels it is too late into the cycle to change Obama’s Supreme Court appointment, is against the Affordable Care Act in favor of a system where each state has its own healthcare which it can sell across state lines.

GO VOTE. Paid for by Darian Sablon, political activist.

Sheriff:

Scott Israel (D)- Elected in 2012, Scott Israel is against Florida’s Stand Your Ground Law, is in support of reinstating the federal assault weapons ban and preventing those on the federal “no fly” watch list from purchasing firearms, and is against prison privatization.

Amendment 1:

Amendment 1 will add a measure to the Florida Constitution that would give consumers the right to own or lease solar equipment for their own use.

Amendment 1 is also, as its opposition points out, sponsored heavily by Florida Power & Light, Duke Energy, Tampa Electric Co., Gulf Power, and a few nonprofits connected and funded by the Koch brothers; which begs the question “is this in the consumer’s interest or their interest?” Additionally, reporter Mary Ellen Klas of the Miami Herald obtained a devastating audiotape of a presentation made by an executive of a Tallahassee think tank that provides “research” to the state’s big electric utilities. On the tape, Sal Nuzzo of the James Madison Institute is heard praising Amendment 1 as “an incredibly savvy maneuver” that “would completely negate anything they (pro-solar groups) would try to do either legislatively or constitutionally down the road.”

Amendment 2:

Amendment 2 will create a constitutional for people with specific “debilitating” conditions to use marijuana with physician certification while retaining state and federal prohibitions on recreational marijuana use. It will also create “medical marijuana treatment centers.”

Amendment 3:

Amendment 3 will authorize a legislature to grant a property tax exemption on homestead property to first responders who are “totally and permanently” disabled from injuries sustained in the line of duty.

Interiors By Elise

​ Interior Painting

Amendment 5:

Amendment 5 will ensure that low-income seniors do not lose the property tax exemption granted if the value of their home exceeds the $250,000 limit.

Amendment 5 will, however, cost cities and counties an estimated $2.3 million in fiscal year 2016-2017, $500,000 in 2017-18, and eventually $1.2 million in 2020-21.

Broward County Initiatives:

Funding for Local Infrastructure Projects Through Levy of a One-Half Percent Sales Surtax- Changes sales tax for

Broward County residents to 6.5% in order to fund local transportation and infrastructure projects.

Amending Broward County Charter to Eliminate the Management and Efficiency Study Committee- Amends the MESC, which was created in 1996 to “conduct a comprehensive study of County government including, but not limited to, its organization, structure, and the efficiency of any County Board, Committee, Authority, Agency, division, office, department, or other unit of County government that provides administrative staff services to and/or has its budget approved by the County Commission.” The initiative could possibly save $230,000 every 10 years.

Broward County Charter Review Commission Member Terms and Future Appointment- Would review the CRC’s process for determining and establishing commission term limits and set a definite timetable for appointing members of the CRC and presenting proposals to align with election years.

Interiorsbyelise@gmail.com 954 330 4000 thelariatonline.com | 11

OPINIONS

In Conflict: Should students be required to stand for the Pledge?

While it is not directly stated in the Constitution, the Supreme Court has ruled it constitutional to sit for the Pledge under the First Amendment. Below are two student opinions on the issue: ZACHARY PEROTTA Staff Writer

YES

The red, white and blue flag: to patriots, it represents the land of the emancipated, the home of the brave that is the United States of America.

However, there are those that view the U.S. as the land of enslavement and the home of the bigoted.

Adherents of this worldview are now utilizing it as a pretext for disrespecting the U.S. flag.

“I am not going to stand up to show pride in a flag for a country that oppresses black people and people of color,” San Francisco 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick said.

The issue, on its face, is relatively minuscule and almost not noteworthy.

“I have been raised my whole life standing for the pledge,” CCHS Junior Dashiel Heidt notes, “I didn’t know that there was a different way until I saw people do it.”

Yet, in reality, the contentious debate is both misfocused and heated.

Take, for instance, the perspective of politically active and well informed junior, Bruce Glasserman: “you’ve got to respect people’s ability to act according to their conscience,” he explains, “if they don’t want to say it, or stand, they don’t have to.” While those assertions are categorically true, it sadly reflects the fact that the pledge debate has pivoted away from morality, and towards ability.

There are two issues with taking Kaepernick’s position from a moral standpoint: first, it is illicit to presume that the U.S. is a nation that, on the international stage, is especially terrible on the issue of basic human rights and, secondly, it is a flagrant insult to military personnel because the position inherently tarnishes their service.

The CIRI Human Rights Data Project,

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which uses information on government respect for 15 internationally recognized human rights, qualifies why the U.S. is relatively proficient in terms of human rights when they show that the U.S. is the 38th best country in the world for human rights. Specifically rights which pertain to people of color, the group which Kaepernick claims is oppressed, are upheld to an extremely high extent relative to other countries.

For instance, on the Electoral Self-Determination index, which measures the extent to which the right to vote and have an influence in the selection of representatives is upheld, the U.S. is ranked 2nd worldwide. Even so, there are assertions that the right of people of color to vote is being suppressed by statewide voter ID laws.

Further, the Workers Rights Index, which measures the ability of workers to freely associate and collectively bargain, ranks the U.S. as 1st worldwide, despite claims that the collective bargaining rights of unions, which are composed of many minorities, are being trampled on.

Regardless, it should be conceded that it is the right of those who sit for the pledge to do so because it is an expression of their free speech, just as it is worth noting that the U.S. could do better in ensuring basic human rights.

However, the question is not about the ability to sit for the pledge, rather, it regards the morality of the decision, and the most prominent basis for the decision is lacking in basic ethics.

Does any of this mean that people must stand for the pledge because the U.S. is great? No. Does it mean that there isn’t room for improvement? No. Should people be proud of how far the U.S. has come, and of its flag by extension? Absolutely.

Regardless of the motivation behind those who

refuse to pledge allegiance to the U.S. flag, they should note the direct impact that they are having on members of the military and their families.

“My heart is exploding, my lungs are without air, my blood is boiling, my body is shaking, and tears are running down my face,” the mother of a gold star veteran, who died in battle, explained.

“I am sitting in my living room looking outside at my American flag — flying at half staff,” she said. “My son’s body lay in a street after an [improvised explosive device] blew up the vehicle he was fighting in. His blood stains the sands of Afghanistan. He died protecting the ideals of the flag you refuse to respect.”

To be clear, the impact is not simply that Kaepernick and his supporters are making the defenders of this country along with their families experience trauma, but that they are delegitimizing the service of these individuals.

This mother just explained that her son fought for the flag and the country that it represents because of ideals which the flag, also, stands for and those who sit have the audacity to imply that the American flag stands for racism?

That doesn’t just mean that U.S. policies are racist; people who believe this are saying that U.S. veterans fought, and U.S. military personnel are fighting, willingly, to enforce racism and oppression.

If people still want to sit for the pledge of allegiance then they should be aware that they have every right to do so. Yet, they should also keep in mind that there is little to no moral backing behind doing so, they are actively disrespecting the country and military which allows for this very disrespect, and that they are implying that the military is an accessory to racism.

OPINIONS

NO

BY SAVANNAH KEYSER Staff Writer

“I pledge allegiance to the Flag of The United States of America...” Possibly the most famous collection of words in American history, the Pledge of Allegiance has been ingrained into the minds of students since the time they first started school. Schoolchildren have the pledge memorized and hammered into their brains before they know what the words coming out of their mouths even mean.

As of late there has been much controversy on whether or not people should be sitting, or kneeling, while the pledge is being recited. San Francisco 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick inspired many people, including other professional athletes, to sit or kneel during the performance of the National Anthem. Kaepernick’s protest is meant to show support for the people of color that are oppressed in this country and to take a stand against police brutality.

“This is because I’m seeing things happen to people that don’t have a voice, people that don’t have a platform to talk and have their voices heard, and affect change. So I’m in the position where I can do that and I’m going to do that for people that can’t,” Kaepernick said.

There has been case after case that show that racism and police brutality is alive and well in America.

African Americans are constantly fearing for their lives.

Members of the African American community have been killed for no reason other than the fact that racism is an issue in the criminal justice system. This is shown in the shooting of 12-year-old Tamir Rice, who was sitting in a pavilion playing with a toy gun when he was shot twice by a police officer. Dejuan Yourse is another young African American who experienced how tragic police brutality really is. Yourse was sitting on his mother’s front porch step while he waited for her to come home and let him in. He was then harassed and attacked by an unprovoked police officer who assumed that Yourse was trying to break into the house. Incidents like these happen way too often and it shows not only that racism still exists in this country, but that it is acted upon by people who are supposed to protect all citizens.

Kaepernick’s protest has gained lots of attention on social media. Teenagers have noticed and started to take part in this protest when they can, but it’s not always easy for them. Many students have decided to exercise their right to sit for the pledge but in doing so have endured negative comments and judgement against them.

“I try to sit but most teachers bark at us to stand

up,” Junior Madison Worley said. “If I do sit, I definitely feel judged and it upsets me because I have my own way of showing respect towards my country. I just don’t do it standing up with my hand on my chest.”

It is clearly stated in the 1943 Supreme Court decision, West Virginia State Board of Education v. Barnette, that forcing students, or anyone for that matter, to stand up and recite the pledge goes against their constitutional rights.

Court Justice Robert Jackson constructed the majority opinion of the Court “No official, high or petty, can prescribe what shall be orthodox in politics, nationalism, religion, or other matters of opinion or force citizens to confess by word or act their faith therein. If there are any circumstances which permit an exception, they do not now occur to us.”

Through this court decision, it was ruled that compelling anyone to salute the flag and pledge their allegiance goes against the freedom of speech and religious freedom in the First Amendment.

When the Pledge of Allegiance was first written, its author, Francis Bellamy, hoped it would be used by citizens in any country, not just the United States of

“

Students should be able to sit during the pledge because that is expressing their first amendment right to freedom of speech.

”

America. The pledge originally read “I pledge allegiance to my flag and the republic for which it stands, one nation, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.” There was no mention of the United States in the pledge until 1923. This change was meant to be a clarification for immigrants to be clear on the fact that they were saluting to the United States and not to their home country. Similar to the addition of the United States to the pledge, the mention of God was added later as well. One of the first remarks of God in the pledge was made by the Knights of Columbus, a Catholic fraternal service organization. The

saying “one nation, under God” gained popularity in the early 1950s. Congress passed a bill on Flag Day of 1954 that added the phrase “under God” into the pledge. This is a controversial amendment of the pledge, because not only does it disrespect those who do not follow a Christian religion, but it also goes against the separation of Church and State.

Having the choice of whether or not one would like to stand for the pledge is actually a great display of the freedom that this country gives its citizens. Sitting during the pledge is just another way that students can express their freedom of speech. It also allows those who do not believe in God to express their freedom of religion as the line in the pledge reads “one nation, under God.” In fact, this nation is comprised of many different religions and not all of them have a god, and therefore not every person in this country should be forced to say this if they do not believe it or follow it.

“Students should be able to sit during the pledge because that is expressing their first amendment right to freedom of speech,” Junior Kaytie de la Vega said. “This country was founded on freedom, and our own beliefs still stand even during a point where we’re supposed to honor our country. Just because one person doesn’t think it’s right doesn’t mean we don’t have the right to sit.”

Many people believe that sitting for the pledge is one of the most disrespectful things one can do. Although it may seem like it, people have their own personal reasons for not standing while the pledge is being said. Not every person who makes the decision to sit for the pledge means it out of disrespect. Many people feel that they are exercising their rights as American citizens to the fullest extent. When they sit down during the pledge, they are reminded that they have the freedom to do so because their rights are protected. These people know that countries with less freedom, or none at all, like North Korea, have no rights that protect their freedom of speech. They are reminded of this especially when they do not stand for the pledge and know exactly what the flag really stands for.

Standing or sitting for the pledge is a choice. It is against the law to force anyone, students included, to stand for the pledge and recite it. These students have their own reason for sitting and no matter what it is, those students and their choice to sit down must be respected.

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FEATURES

MADISON GAILBOORD: Finding order in the abstract

CCHS artist makes a name for herself as one of the only sophomores in Advanced Studio Art

BY CASSI NOWOSAD Staff Writer

Students in their geometry classroom feverishly copy down the newest equation as the teacher explains what is to come of the next test. For Madison Gailboord, however, geometry is already heavily incorporated into her everyday life. She observes the geometric composition of the faces and bodies surrounding her and uses it to construct visually unique pieces. Gailboord is one of the only sophomores enrolled in AP Studio Art, and many students have said they admire her advanced works. As a result of all of the positivity surrounding her, she hopes to inspire her friends and other artists to pursue their goals as she has.

“I have been drawing ever since I could hold a pencil, but I started taking art seriously at the end of fourth grade when my friend introduced me to anime, so I started drawing that style,” Gailboord said. “It kind of developed from there into more realistic and sometimes cartoony styles, and I just made my own stuff from there.”

Gailboord hopes to go to college at Cooper Union to become a freelance comic artist. Cooper Union is a privately funded college for the advancement of science and art, among the nation’s oldest and most distinguished institutions of higher education. The only flaw in this plan lies with income; she worries the cost of living will outweigh the money obtained from her artwork.This, however, doesn’t stop her from striving to reach her goal.

The main thing that keeps her going is the feedback from her friends and the people she loves about her art pieces.

“Everyone around me... their faces light up when they see my art and it pushes [them] to become better so I want to continue doing that for my friends and everyone around me,” Gailboord said, smiling with enthusiasm.

Gailboord mentioned that her little sister Jeni is one the biggest fans of her work. Jeni admires her older sister and often draws with Gailboord as she is working on assignments and attempts to mimic movements. One story stood out to Gailboord as she thought about her sister.

Jeni had asked if Gailboord would display the artwork they had drawn together when she attends Cooper Union.

Gailboord smiled fondly at this in recollection, saying how it really impacted her because she had realized how much her sister looked up to her. Jeni is not Gailboord’s only fan; her friends expressed how much impact her pieces have had on them.

“Madison inspires me as an artist because she has such a unique style and her works are always so beautiful and detailed,” Gailboord’s close friend Abigail Black said.

“It seems like every time you see a new piece she does she’s always improving.”

Many find her elaborate art to be so ‘eye-catching’ that it is often put on display within different classrooms for students to gather inspiration from. This will often motivate Gailboord to continue the work she does because of the impact she has upon others.

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SQUISHED FACES: In response to AP Studio Art Teacher Irma Barr’s drawing prompt “squished face,” Gailboord produced a hyperrealistic self-portrait.

Photographed by Sabrine Brismeur

“I always see her pieces being hung up or when she brings them to school,” fellow student Amanda SurisDiaz said. “They are always so detailed and interesting. I really look up to her as an artist and think she’s got a really great future ahead of her.”

Gailboord has inspirations of her own; Tim Burton’s horror pieces have impacted her art style heavily, as he is one of her personal favorite artists. Gailboord hopes people will continue to be as motivated by her works of art as she is by his. Her favorite movie of his is The Nightmare Before Christmas because of its unique character concept designs and outlook on the holiday season. Her art pieces often include stitched mouths, an idea inspired from his works of art.

“He [makes me] think outside of the box,” Gailboord said. “His style is creepy, creative, and unique.

You can see one of his art pieces and immediately know that it’s his. I hope one day people will recognize my ideas and art like they do Tim Burton.”

Gailboord does not plan on becoming a mathematics major; however, with the geometric skills she uses she plans on taking the beauteous pieces she’s created and making works that leave an impact on the comic and art scene as a whole. With her many aspirations as an artist Gailboord hopes to become known worldwide on YouTube for her one-of-a-kind pieces. This goal allows her to leave a larger impact on artists lives with the extensive audience that comes with it. With her artistic inspirations and friends supporting her she plans to let nothing stand in her way of attaining her dream job.

FEATURES

CCHS Senior Grehan Edmunds makes art out of unconventional materials Artwork courtesy of Grehan Edmunds Photo by Sabrine Brismeur

BY KARINA BLODNIEKS Editor-in-chief

CCHS Senior Grehan Edmunds turns 19 cent Bic pens into distorted images of reality.

A cubist at heart and in practice, Edmunds creates art out of materials many wouldn’t expect to find in a gallery. Utilizing coffee, tea, and his trademark Bic pen, Edmunds truly embodies the role of an innovative artist.

His work depicts scenes from his own life, but adds a twist of his own imagination.

“I love the idea of self-expression,” Edmunds said. “It’s so freeing. My art will never be anyone else’s.”

Edmunds’ work has been developing from a young age. In elementary school he was drawn most to the art electives, putting his imagination on paper in any form he could. In middle school, however, Edmunds decided that his passion was not the only thing he would pursue.

Choosing to take accelerated math, he quickly gained an affinity for academics.

“You’re always told to be realistic,” Edmunds said. “I want to do art, but it’s hard to get into. Not a lot of people become artists, so I kind of used academics as a backup plan.”

Entering high school, Edmunds busied himself with an academic AP course load on top of AP Studio Art, a class in which students prepare a 24-piece portfolio to send for scoring by College Board. Consisting of both a breadth and concentration portion, the exam invites students to explore their own broader ideas and concepts of art as opposed to simply thinking of art as an aesthetic.

In the breadth, students compose 12 pieces that

show the full range of their artistic talents, which generally include an exposition of multiple mediums and styles.

In the concentration, students are asked to compose 12 pieces on a concept of their choosing. All pieces must follow similar stylistic and conceptual aspects.

For Edmunds, the choice of his concentration took months as he turned ideas over in his head, eventually settling on documenting his spiritual relationship with nature.

Two years ago, Edmunds took a backpacking trip in New Mexico. This experience served as a sort of muse for him as he delved into the conceptual development of his spirituality.

“As much as I wanted to control nature, it would always fight back,” Edmunds said. “The colors [in my pieces] are violent and chaotic, whereas the people are geometric, kind of dulled down and refined. That was to show how nature is chaotic and crazy, and how we always try to control it, but nature is always going to have an impact on us.”

Such critical thinking skills are apparent in his art, which takes a turn from the ordinary into surrealistic form.

He takes his inspiration from Paul Clay and Alexandra Nechita, modern artists who utilize vibrant colors and cubism to highlight their ideas. What he respects most about both artists, Edmunds says, is that they create works with deeper meaning.

Evident in his art and attire, Edmunds takes pride in standing out. When everyone in the class looks to realism, Edmunds is proud to say he tries to change course

and take a more abstract route.

But what is prominent in Grehan’s art is not all that characterizes him. In AP Studio Art, Grehan stands out often because of his vibrant colored clothing and even more eccentric personality.

“If you want to know about his humor, just check out his Twitter account,” CCHS Senior Arthur Baldwin said. “In fact, half of the things he says are direct Spongebob quotes.”

Outside of the art room, Grehan is involved in NHS, LEAD, and water polo, all of which speak to his dedication to his future.

While he doesn’t know where he’s going to college, Edmunds hopes to go to a big-name art college such as the Rhode Island School of Design. If that doesn’t work out, Edmunds says he will go to a liberal arts college where he can double major in both art and an academic subject.

No matter where he takes his future, the educators who have helped Edmunds along the way have utmost confidence in his capabilities.

“He is a pleasure to teach as he is always open to criticism by just laughing it off,” AP Studio Art teacher Irma Barr said. “Students like Grehan are what I love about teaching.”

Whether it’s art, sports, or academics, Edmunds says art will always be what he comes back to.

“At the end of a hard day, I’ll sit down and I’ll draw,” Edmunds said. “It’s a part of me.”

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FEATURES

Quizlet

Search

Create

jbrower19 Created

Studied

Folders

Classes

Keeping his ion the prize

CCHS Senior Jeremy Brower looks toward a career in chemistry but doesn’t forget to update his Quizlet along the way

BY KENDYL COUNTS Print Managing Editor

Whether he’s unapologetically roaming the school grounds in a giraffe onesie, throwing the first pitch at a Cooper City Cowboys baseball game, or creating comprehensive Quizlet study sets that are the saviors of students across the county, CCHS Senior Jeremy Brower is hard to miss.

Growing up, Brower frequently found himself reaching for baseballs instead of books. Though his relationship with school wasn’t love at first lecture, he grew to appreciate his education upon understanding how hard his parents worked to give him opportunities that they did not have.

“I’m a first generation collegebound student,” Brower said. “The realization of what I could do inspired me to become a [diligent] worker.”

A devoted student, Brower braves a schedule packed with Advanced Placement classes each school year despite his involvement in multiple extracurriculars. As proven by the giraffe onesie incident, which Brower wore for an AP Biology project, he’s not afraid to go above and beyond what is expected of him. His daily routine of homework and studying is punctuated by DECA meetings, where he enjoys his role as vice president of competitive events, and National Honor Society meetings, where he finds satisfaction in helping others through tutoring and service projects.

“[Brower is] one of the most selfless students I’ve ever seen,” NHS Sponsor Dwayne Dixon said. “He’s willing to help all of his classmates when most [students] want an advantage over their classmates.”

After a long day of hitting the books, it’s not uncommon for Brower to unwind by hitting the field. As an active member of the team, he’s responsible for leading and motivating the team as well as sharing advice and experience with his

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teammates. But when even a day spent on the diamond fails to provide reprieve from the stresses of high school, Brower knows that he can always count on Netflix to welcome him home after a long day.

With so much on his plate, the efficiency with which he studies for tests can seem like a matter of survival.

Struggling under the stress of freshman year, Brower turned to Quizlet, an online platform for learning tools such as games and flashcards.

“The idea that [Quizlet] could

“

I think people are starting to understand why I do what I do. They’re going to realize it very soon.

”

help me got me started,” Brower said.

“The idea that it would help everybody else improve their grades kept me going.”

Three years later, Brower’s Quizlet classroom has about 100 members and 147 study sets ranging from AP Psychology to Spanish III Honors, some of which have been viewed over 50 times. Noticing how many students relied on study sets from “jbrower19” to help them prepare for tests, CCHS Senior Rohan Patel decided to nominate Brower for the Quizlet Hero Award, given by the website to those who have assisted a number of others with their Quizlet study sets.

“When I saw this Quizlet hero competition and what it stood for, I immediately thought of [Brower] and everything he has done for all of us,” Patel said. “So when I looked it over and informed him about it, he was ecstatic because we both knew for a fact that this competition is about people who have done exactly the things that he has done on a day-to-day basis.”

Though he’s committed to helping others, Brower is careful not to neglect his own ambitions; it might not be the most popular weekend pastime, but he sets aside a considerable portion of his spare time for studying. Spending anywhere between two to twelve hours studying each weekend, he refutes accusations of insanity with impressive results. Innumerable hours spent pouring over textbooks, Brower says, are a worthy investment in his future. Some subjects, however, come easily to him; though he hasn’t always been drawn to science, he reacted extremely well with his 10th grade chemistry class. The product?

Passion.

”I understood [chemistry] from the day I walked in, I’ve loved it ever since, and I miss it every day,” Brower confessed.

“I’d tell you a good chemistry joke, but all the good ones Argon.”

An aspiring chemical engineer, Brower hopes to apply his interest in chemistry to an actual profession. Proving

that even role models have role models, he’s identified an exemplar within the halls of CCHS - Physics teacher Dr. Jorge Rigol, a published physicist who assisted the team of scientists that discovered element 118, formally named Ununoctium.

”Dr. Rigol is amazing,” Brower said. “He helped discover an element! I want him to sign my periodic table for me.”

Influenced by Rigol’s success, Brower guarantees that soon he’ll be the one wearing lab coats, attempting to answer the most perplexing of questions, and trying not to singe off his eyebrows.

When that time comes, he’ll know he has his Quizlets to thank.

“I think people are starting to understand why I do what I do,” Brower said. “They’re going to realize it very soon.”

Until then, Brower remains content with his high school experiences and accomplishments thus far, and will continue to foster dreams of going to a large university with an energetic, involved student body, much like the one he’s used to at Cooper City High School.

“Success is realizing that you’ve accomplished a lot that you’re proud of, and you can look back and smile about it,” Brower said. “Just strive for your best, know what you can do, and don’t be afraid to take a risk.”

FEATURES

Champion of the Underdogs

CCHS Senior Nicole Tjin a Djie continues to root for the underdog in both public and private settings Photo by Sabrine Brismeur

BY SABRINE BRISMEUR Staff Writer

One thing about senior Nicole “Nikki” Tjin a Djie is certain: she isn’t easily defined.

“I want to give a voice to the underdog and the outcast,” she says, wringing her hands and giving off an aura of vulnerable, flattered sheepishness that doesn’t quite match with her otherwise confident demeanor.

The president of the Cooper City’s National Honor Society (NHS) and the Vice President of the Student Government Association (SGA), Tjin a Djie’s resumé is far from lacking.

But her motivation for taking on such formidable leadership positions lies in helping other people, and this purpose in life has guided many of her actions.

“Nikki has an insatiable thirst for knowledge,” her aunt Barbara Tjin a Djie said. “She is very well read and extremely interesting to talk to about any topic, from ancient history to current events.”

Tjin a Djie’s most admirable character traits presented themselves at an early age. As a child, Tjin a Djie was book-shy but ambitious, a lover of the outdoors, an expert fort architect, and an ardent consumer of knowledge. Her need to satisfy her curiosity led to a collection of scientific books that she didn’t completely comprehend but revered anyway.

“

one with people and actively seeking out those who seem like they need help, Tjin a Djie is able to make members of her clubs and community feel valued.

“My leadership style is very different. I’m not as outgoing and bubbly as a lot of leaders, and that’s something I’ve realized,” she said. “I want to know people’s stories, and I use what I’ve gone through as a person to help others.”

Tjin a Djie is especially vocal about her relationship with NHS, emphasizing running for president was something she did because it aligned with her values. After participating in the NHS mock debate during the election cycle, and realizing she wanted to be the biggest part of a club she found so rewarding, Tjin a Djie decided to run for president at the end of her junior year.

Unsurprisingly, she collected both the presidential position of NHS and the second vice presidential position of SGA with ease. Working under English teacher Natalie Flaten for SGA and American History teacher Dwayne Dixon for NHS, her peers and superiors believe there are few people better for the job than Tjin a Djie.

Her superiors agree.

“She is a passionate, hardworking, loyal, dependable individual who has all these lofty goals of achieving great

I want to see the world at the largest scale possible and understand as much as I can.

“I had a book on space and a book on sharks. My favorite word was Megalodon, and I loved to tell people all these random facts about the Megalodon shark,” said Tjin a Djie. “And I had a book about the universe. I didn’t even understand it, but since I was five I’ve known that the sun was ninety-three million miles away.”

Tjin a Djie attended American Heritage until her sophomore year, when she transferred to Cooper City High School. From her freshman year, Tjin a Djie dreamed of being a member of NHS and SGA in order to become more involved with the community. By her junior year at Cooper City, she had not only become a member of the clubs, but secured a position on the SGA executive board and the tutoring coordinator position for NHS.

Her success can, in part, be credited to her unique approach to leadership. Preferring to work one-on-

”

things. I believe with her guidance and leadership, we’re going to achieve the things that she’s planned,” added Dixon.

Tjin a Djie’s main goal as president of NHS is to engage the student populace in acts of citizenship.

With a strong interest in politics and humanitarian efforts, she finds student awareness in the public school system vital.

Her involvement in DECA, an internationally-recognized high school association dealing in business, led her to start her own small business project during her junior year. Even when the main goal was profit, Tjin a Djie kept her humanitarian interests in mind, selling charity bracelets for the organization Malaria No More in order to combat the disease in Africa.

“I think it’s very valuable to serve others, because it benefits you in a way,” she said. “Any individual can change the world. It starts somewhere, and I think

people underestimate how much they can do. A lot of people give up and say, ‘I don’t matter. I’ll just live my life for me.’

But I think you can live a very fulfilling life and help other people along the way.”

Beyond serving the community of Cooper City High, Tjin a Djie’s most evident passion lies in helping people through politics, law, education, and grassroot movements. Tjin a Djie has lobbied for education in Tallahassee, attended school board meetings, and worked for local politicians. Describing herself as a strong proponent of the public school system, Tjin a Djie hopes to utilize its potential in order to facilitate citizenship development.

Though she is unsure of the direction her future will take her, Tjin a Djie’s love for assisting others has led her to two career choices: politics, or law, both of which she is greatly interested in.

Explaining that politics allows her to shape society on a large scale, while law lets her change an individual’s life on a small scale, Tjin a Djie’s “voice for the underdog” mantra resonates in her career interests.

“I want to go into a profession where I can know the laws and genuinely help people,” she said. “Not just advance in a career. I’d love to go into law and be a public defender for those who have been cheated by the criminal justice system.

Or go into politics, as cringeworthy as

it is right now, where it’s about getting more power, not helping people.”

Ultimately, Tjin a Djie hopes to attend Georgetown University in Washington, D.C., or Florida State University, both of which are situated at capitals on a state and national level. With her love for the international humanitarian cause, Tjin a Djie is looking to Northeastern University in Massachusetts, which offers a program for their students to work with the United Nations.

“If I were to go into politics, my dream would be to be on the Florida House while I’m still in college [attending FSU],” she said. “I know that sounds crazy, but people have done it. You only have to be 21 to be on the Florida House.”

As for her personal life, Tjin a Djie hopes to pursue her wanderlust and visit all fifty states on a roadtrip. Her adventurous streak from childhood has never gone away, and exploring the world and what it has to offer remains one of her great loves in life.

“I’m always up for an adventure, and no matter how reckless, I’d do it,” she said.

“I want to see the world at the largest scale possible and understand as much as I can.”

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FEATURES

A leader you can count on

CCHS Senior Landon Counts transitions from beach to brains

BY KYLE NELSON Online Managing Editor

It’s noon on Fort Lauderdale beach during the Tortuga country music festival, and CCHS Senior Landon Counts is swaying with the crowd during one of his favorite songs as his mind drifts off to the thought of school the next day. After a quick mental rundown of the forthcoming school week, he pushes the idea of his impending AP Physics test, NHS meeting and college applications out of his mind and focuses on the task at hand: having a good time.

This is the existence of Landon Counts, an outlier of the commonly perceived idea of a valedictorian.

Landon Counts was born in Plantation, and from a young age was instilled with the value that education is important. Since moving to Cooper City when he was five, he has been enrolled in public schools for his entire life, attending Embassy Creek Elementary School where he was in the gifted program. He later furthered his education at Pioneer Middle School where he won the STEM award (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics).

“I would say I was a born leader,” Counts said. “It was pretty clear early on, even in second and third grade.”

Once he entered high school, Counts had little idea as far as what he desired to do for extracurriculars, but after looking at all his options, he planted his roots in DECA and NHS.

“Freshman year, I had no idea what clubs I wanted to join,” Counts chuckled. “The first time I went to a DECA meeting, I didn’t even know what it meant.”

After joining DECA and NHS, he quickly realized his interests would be in clubs that would allow him leadership and self growth of his own strengths. Freshman year, Counts tested into DECA states after placing third at districts. The following year, Counts was offered the choice to run for state office by the academy of finance. He jumped at the chance, and won the election as Vice President of Florida DECA. During his junior year, Counts decided to withdraw from DECA leadership and pursue NHS.

“It was really weird at first [joining NHS],” Counts said. “I know so much about DECA and I was so involved, so not being involved [as much] now just feels strange. But my philosophy is that sometimes in life, situations don’t work out in the way you expected them to, and I am super happy I get to work with Mr. Dixon.”

Academically, Counts has always been at the top. Freshman and sophomore year, through hard work and dedication Counts secured his spot in the top of his class by taking the most rigorous classes allotted. This set the precedent for what he desired to continue to do in high school.

Junior year, he was the only student from the classes of 2017 and 2018 to earn a 5 on the AP Chemistry exam. Although

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he is currently first in his class, Counts knows that this may not stay the same until graduation.

“As it came closer [graduation] I wanted it more,” Counts said. “I did as much as I could to ensure I would hold the position, and now it’s here and I’m still number one, but I know the competition is tight and I know anyone could pull something out at any time so I’m not banking on anything.”

With that said, there is more to Counts than just school. Education has always been important to him, but he doesn’t let it consume his life. While he is the prospected Valedictorian for the class of 2017, he has a very balanced outlook on his school life and social life. Counts thoroughly loves all things sports. He played basketball when he was a child and kept his love of sports alive even after he had to quit because his academic life was expending more and more time. Counts is a devout Florida State football fan, and he enjoys doing his homework with a game on. Aside from sports, Counts is a huge Star Wars fan. Counts admitted he has seen the movies too many times to count and even obtained his first life size lightsaber when he was five from his aunt.

Counts is the oldest of three children and has set a considerable example for his younger siblings. He values family relationships above all, right in front of his relationships with his best friends.

“You need to have good relationships with your family first and foremost. Those are the people that are going to be supporting you and be there for you for your entire life,” Counts said.

“When you move onto others, you need to find people who think the same as you, people who share your ups and downs with you and don’t run out when things get rough.”

As he prepares to embark on his venture out of Cooper, he will leave friends that he has acquired and stuck with for years, some for almost his entire life.

“Landon and I have known each other since kindergarten,” Senior Hunter Harrington said. “We met on the first day and have been best friends; he’s like a brother to me.”

In his years after high school, Counts hopes to achieve the impossible.

Pursuing a career in biology, chemistry or biological engineering, Counts desires to find a cure for cancer. His junior year, his aunt was diagnosed with cancer and sadly passed away. Instead of allowing this family tragedy to knock him down, Counts used it as a catalyst to light a fire within him to pursue the field of cancer research. A very devoted problem solver, when a problem has yet to be solved he will not stop working towards it till he finds his answer. Cancer is his newest problem he hopes to conquer in the future.

“My aunt was diagnosed with

breast cancer about a year ago and ever since then it has been on my mind. I love biology and chemistry and it seemed like everything was coming together where I finally found something that meant a lot to me that I could make a difference in.

[Cancer research is] a field that I truly want to revolutionize,” Counts said. “I always feel like there is always a way to solve a problem and all you have to do is unearth it.”

As far as Counts’ future, he is undecided on where he will go and how he will get there, but he knows that making a name for himself is of utmost importance.

Stepping into a new and vast chapter of his life doesn’t scare him at all; in actuality, it does the exact opposite. Counts plans to jump into his next big decision headfirst, without looking back.

“I make decisions and I stick with them, period.” Counts said.

PHOTO BY SABRINE BRISMEUR

FEATURES

CODING THE FUTURE CCHS Senior Brent Pappas dives into a passion for computer coding

BY DARIAN SABLON Online Editor

“

In the future, I hope not so much to be famous or wealthy or anything extravagant. I just wish to be happy and live a life that makes others around me happy.

”

PHOTO BY BEN MILGRAM

It’s five in the morning, the sun is hidden away by the clouds, and there is barely anyone in sight. Most students would still be sleeping around this time, snoring their last few hours away. However, in the low lit streets of Cooper City, there is a lone figure running as if his life depends on it. Weaving around the corners and bends, over the hills and through parks, CCHS Senior Brent Pappas is trying to squeeze in some jogging before the difficult day ahead.

When applying to colleges, people often try to appear as if they are participants in a wide variety of fields, trying to look as well-rounded as they possibly can in order to get accepted to where they want to go. Yet it is only a few individuals who can actually attest to being proficient in a whole multitude of activities and extracurriculars, ranging from numerous sports to computer science, math and writing. Pappas is one of them, breaking the expected standards while still enjoying himself.

It wasn’t always like this though.

When he was younger, Pappas would rarely participate in any after school activities or extracurriculars. Like a lot of people, he would get home, study, do homework, and play videogames until it was time to sleep for the next school day. However, his freshman year of high school, all of that changed for him. As a ninth grader, Pappas joined the wrestling team of CCHS, and with his new seven-period schedule, his academic and

personal life would now be different to what it was once before.

“It was very much a challenge and I wasn’t very sure if I was going to be able to keep my grades up at that time and stay true to who I really was at that time,” Pappas said.

“It was really difficult but I’m glad I went through with it. It instilled in me a sense of responsibility.”

Although he stopped participating in wrestling his sophomore year, this sense of responsibility and time management would not only become an essential part of his academic life but also his personal life.

Aside from wrestling, Pappas would join the swimming, tennis and cross country teams while also taking multiple APs. Yet, he would also add on top of that a part-time job and multiple hobbies such as unicycling, and, most importantly, coding.

Oftentimes, in high school, people find something they really enjoy and even though they may dabble in other things, they usually stay within their niche and become pros in that area. Pappas is different.

He did not just become good at sports, but he also became an avid coder, making a vast amount of programs throughout his high school career, and in fact joining the Computer Science Club. He also became part of AP Computer Science, an AP that requires extensive knowledge of how to understand and write code. He is now taking AP Computer Principles.

However, even though he is proficient in a variety of topics and areas, Pappas himself has realized that in trying to be a well-rounded person, there are limitations in traveling the path to be such a person.

“I’ve always wanted to be a balanced individual, but as I’ve gotten older, I’ve seen that’s quite difficult because everything takes time,” Pappas said. “I’ve realized that one can become good at anything, it just takes time and time is the one thing you cannot get back.”

His efforts have nonetheless inspired many of those who know him, especially for those at home, with his younger brother Collin Pappas, a CCHS Junior, growing up and seeing Brent as a constant role model.

“Growing up with Brent helped me grow as a person because he’s one of my role models and he’s someone I can look up to and how to model my life after,” Collin said. “He keeps pushing me to strive for better and set up goals for myself.”

Pappas has also shown to be a stellar example in school, helping other classmates and leaving an impression on teachers such as David Schultz, the current Robotics, Physics and AP Computer Principles Teacher.

“I would say that Brent is a polite, courteous young man who’s been a pleasure to have in class,” Schultz said. “Brent is a role model to his peers by leading through his example, completing his work on time with

precision and I think other students notice that and try to follow.”

Aside from his academics and coding, Pappas has also taken an interest in the well-known fantasy game of Dungeons and Dragons, a roleplaying game where people cooperate and battle creatures while being consulted by someone called the Dungeon Master. Although not something that colleges may be interested in per se, Pappas participates in these games with the same fervor and enjoyment that he does with other activities.

“It’s a lot of fun playing Dungeons and Dragons with Brent, he’s creative and adds to the campaign by being a good Dungeon Master, and he makes it fun in general,” CCHS Senior Eduardo Juan Hernandez said.

And with a long list of possible majors to lean towards, Pappas has of course chosen to become a computer scientist, aiming to be accepted into a high profile schools like John Hopkins. Yet even with a positive future ahead of him, Brent has not lost sight of the long road he has travelled and what motivates him to become a better person.

“In the future, I hope not so much to be famous or wealthy or anything extravagant. I just wish to be happy and live a life that makes others around me happy,” Pappas said. “I want to be humble and capable.”

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ENTERTAINMENT

New fall tv shows The Lariat’s newest list of must-see shows

BY SAVANNAH KEYSER AND TAMARAH WALLACE

1.

Staff Writers

Designated Survivor Every year during the State of the Union Address, one member of the Cabinet is taken to a secret location in case a tragic event occurs and the Capital Building is attacked. This person is called the Designated Survivor. In the event of this type of emergency where all other members of the Cabinet, the Vice President, and the President are killed, the Designated Survivor will be the successor of the President.

This show is based on exactly that. The Designated Survivor, in this case, is a man named Tom Kirkman, the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development. He would normally be 12th in the line of succession and isn’t necessarily fit to run the country.

Soon after stepping into office, President Kirkman has to address the terrible tragedy that the country has endured as well as other issues going on around the United States such as police brutality and racial profiling. President Kirkman now has to figure out in a very short period of time how to set the American citizens’ minds at ease as well as run the country.

3.

This is Us

2.

Pitch “Based on a true story that hasn’t happened yet,” Pitch is a show about the first woman to play in the Major Leagues. Her name is Ginny Baker and she was picked to play for the San Diego Padres. She began to play baseball when she was just a young girl. Her dad taught her how to throw a screwball; he knew it was the only way that she would be able to get into the major leagues because it is impossible for a woman to throw as fast as a man. Ginny mastered this specific pitch and rode it all the way to the major leagues. Her first game is a disaster; she couldn’t deliver one pitch to the strike zone. The next week, Ginny took to the mound and, again, was let down by her performance - until about 4 pitches in. She finally delivered her perfect screwball and from then on she was on a roll. The series follows Ginny Baker and her everyday challenges that she faces as the first and only woman in the Majors, such as sexism and trying to fit in with a team full of men.

Having one kid is hard enough , but having triplets is unimaginable. Jack and Rebecca Pearson soon realize when their first kid turns into their first three kids. They find it to be even harder after they lose one of their triplets during labor. An opportunity appears, however, when an abandoned baby is brought to the hospital on that same day, and Jack and Rebecca make the choice of adopting him as one of their own. The two biological children are named Kevin and Kate, and the adopted triplet is named Kyle, but later changes his name to Randall. The show goes back and forth between the past where Jack and Rebecca are learning how to raise three babies at a time, , and the present day where the three triplets are all grown up and dealing with their own issues: Kevin is having issues with his current acting job, Kate is struggling with her weight, and Randall is dealing with finding his birth father.

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American Horror Story This horror story begins like no other season has before, with a show within a show. We learn eerily about the past of a couple and their paranormal experiences surrounding Roanoke, on what seems to be a reality TV show. Roanoke was the first English colony established in North America and failed after the colonists who settled there mysteriously vanished. The only evidence of its existence left was a carving of the word “Croatoan” on a tree. On that note, the writers are consistently able to make it seem as though something unseemly will happen any minute, and with good reason. The show has a habit of tricking the audience into paranoia by being slightly uneventful, then suddenly leaving viewers hanging onto the edge of their seat when something startling and gruesome happens. For a thrilling and unnerving watch, be sure to tune into American Horror Story: Roanoke.

ENTERTAINMENT

You’ll be Amaized by this local restaurant Venezuelan restaurant takes The Lariat staff writer by storm

BY DANIEL RACKOWER Staff Writer

What do people think of when they think of Hispanic food? They think of Mexican, Cuban, and Peruvian places.

But, in this review, one question will be posed: what about Venezuelan food?

That’s a question answered by Amaize, a new restaurant in the Davie area. Amaize

“

All in all, while this Amaize location is new, its food was some of the best Venezuelan cuisine I’ve had outside of my own mother’s cooking.

”

serves a whole host of Venezuelan foods, such as arepas, tres leches, and cachapas.

The first thing that struck me was how cozy and modern the place looks. It has a sort of cafeteria look with the predominant color of orange giving the place a vibrant and festive feel. I didn’t have much more time to admire the aesthetics of the restaurant as almost immediately, a waiter with a tablet came up to me and explained the menu options to me. He asked my friend and I if we had been to any of the other Amaize locations, and when answered with a “No,” he explained in detail each of the varied and customizable options. While the cachapa offered no differences outside of normal and desert versions, the arepas were a virtual cornucopia of options.

Their variety of pre-selected toppings was limited, but not restricting, yet the true plethora of selections came in with the personalized components. The whole process is reminiscent of a pizza place:

someone picks their meat, or if one isn’t in the mood for that, eggs and other toppings are available. Then comes the cheese, or any other secondary topping.

After I ordered an arepa, essentially a corn pocket filled to the brim with whatever toppings one chooses, I also managed to try some of the cachapas, a corn pancake served hot, wrapped around a melted semicircle of white cheese. One bite into the soft, crunchy shell of the arepa and through the layer of cheese and scrambled eggs and I was hooked.

The cachapa was equally amazing, the corn perfectly complementing the melted cheese both in taste and in texture, creating an extremely satisfying meal. However, if one is now planning a visit to Amaize, be sure to come in hungry, as the portions of this restaurant can be quite robust. While the food was superb, that was not the only part of this particular dining experience that stuck out to me. The service in this particular location was so on point that I

honestly began to consider applying for a job there over the summer.

The arepas, which are quite large and gluten free, are actually priced closer to the cheap side. Both an arepa and a cachapa cost about eight dollars, with two whole meals being less than thirty, including drinks and desserts. The restaurant also offers a breakfast menu, with arepas costing around five dollars and an entire meal (Arepa with eggs, cheese, meat, and vegetables on the side) costing the same as a lunch or dinner entree.

All in all, while this Amaize location is new, its food was some of the best Venezuelan cuisine I’ve had outside of my own mother’s cooking. Amaize is a great new restaurant with great food, friendly service, and a wide selection all for an affordable price. Venezuelan places aren’t as common as other Hispanic restaurants, so finding one that’s good and affordable is definitely worth trying out.

Pablo Picasso, meet Albert Einstein CCHS thespians to perform Picasso at the Lapin Agile on November 8-12

“

BY DARIAN SABLON Online Editor

It’s funny, written by Steve Martin, so if you really like his humor, you’ll end up loving the show and how the characters are portrayed.

Photo by Ben Milgram

In the world of theatre, one of the particularly popular genres for the audience is comedy. It makes them laugh uncontrollably and, at certain moments, even cry with emotion at some revelation induced by the play. Thus, in the efforts to start off the new school year fresh, the CCHS Thespians have brought the hilarious yet reflective production Picasso at the Lapin Agile to Cooper City High School.

Written by the well-known actor and comedian Steve Martin, the play details

a fictional encounter between theoretical physicist Albert Einstein and Spanish painter Pablo Picasso at the Lapin Agile, a French café bustling with customers.

Although vastly different, through the course of play, both men realize that they have much more in common than they had initially believed.

“It’s funny, written by Steve Martin, so if you really like his humor, you’ll end up loving the show and how the characters are portrayed,” CCHS

Senior and play actor Sergio Owens said.

Compared to previous Cooper City High productions, Picasso at the Lapin Agile gives the audience a vastly different experience. For instance, there’s the absence of singing or dancing, which is a style of theatre known as straight play, as well as the lack of setting change, with entirety of the story being set in this one French cafe. This can allow the audience to immerse themselves deeper into character relationships and personalities. There is also the addition of breaking the fourth wall, or when the characters interact with the crowd, which can surprise the public and give them more participation in the performance.

”

“I think a lot of people enjoy historical fiction, characters they know, such as Albert Einstein and Pablo Picasso, but in a scenario they wouldn’t have necessarily expected to see them,” CCHS Acting Teacher and Thespians sponsor Ms. Brandt-Asciolla said. “And we do a lot of breaking the fourth wall, so a lot of our characters walk into the audience which is usually a delight for theater-goers.”

Students and parents are welcome to come out on November 8th, 9th, 10th and 12th for what is sure to be a laughter filled show.

“I think that with all that’s going on in the play the audience is going to love it,” CCHS senior and actor Austin Spoonts said.

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FALL SPORTS

SPORTS

Golf recap

BY BROCK LANDERS Staff Writer

Head Coach Warren Denise led the team in their 11-0 record in regular season matches. The Varsity Boys Golf team placed second in the district, losing by just 2 strokes.

The Cowboys still qualified for Regionals, and though they didn’t advance, they were able to make a statement with their performance.

“It was great to work with such a mature group this year,” Coach Denise said. “[We] look forward to the underclassman interested in joining the team next year.”

Senior Jedidiah Jhu had a stand out performance, averaging a score of 38 for 9 holes. Senior Logan Piper and Junior Jacob Swartz also had admirable performances that contributed to the Cowboys regular season undefeated record.

Volleyball recap

BY MARK BRENT Sports Editor

This year has been an extraordinary year for Cowboy volleyball. The CCHS Lady Cowboys finished the season with a record of 13-9 and dominated the South Broward Bulldogs in the District Championship. In the regular season, the Cowboys finished in second place with a district record of 5-3, facing the Nova Titans in the first round of the district tournament to determine who won the 8a District 15 Championship.

The Cowboys beat the Titans 3-1, and advanced to the finals against a very talented South Broward team. The Bulldogs beat the Cowboys both times in the regular season, but that didn’t intimidate them. The Cowboys came out and demolished the Bulldogs and won all 3 sets, finishing the game with a score of 3-0, and winning the district championship.

“I am very proud of my teammates, how we came together as a team and achieved the district win,” Freshman and Varsity Middle Hailey Brown said.

They then went on to play Alonso Mourning High School in the regional quarterfinals. Although each set was close, the Sharks seemed to capitalize off of the Cowboys’ errors, beating them 3-0. Even though the Lady Cowboys couldn’t make a run into the playoffs, they still defied expectations and won their second straight district championship.

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SPORTS ALL IMAGES COURTESY OF FOXMAR PHOTOGRAPHY

Cross Country recap

BY HANNAH EUBANKS Sports Writer

Football recap

BY OLIVIA LEWIS Sports Writer

The Cooper City High School Varsity Football team has had a great season so far winning an overall of three games and losing four.

Their first game was against the Paladins at South Plantation High School. The final score was 40-20, where Senior Tyler Brown and Junior Mark Brent each scored 2 touchdowns. The following game took place at Coral Springs High School, and they faced off against the Colts. The final score to that game was 27-33. The leading receiver of that game was Senior Christian Cuenca, and he scored two touchdowns. Quarterback Michael DiLiello scored a touchdown for the Cowboys during that game as well. The first home game of the season, the white-out game, was played against Hollywood Hills. The Cowboys ended up winning 21-12, and the fans in the stands made it very memorable for them by throwing baby powder up into the air. Best Buddies Night was held on the second home game, where the Cooper City Cowboys played against Stoneman Douglas.

The score of the game was 44-3, making the Cowboys victorious yet again.

Senior Night took place on September 30th at Cooper City High School. With 20 seniors on the team, the Cowboys had a long and emotional night. The Cowboys fought until the very end, but lost to the Mustangs 0-36. Their next game took place at Nova High School, and was one of the most intense games of the season. In the first quarter of the game, Alvarez and Junior Landon Segarra both gained touchdowns for the Cowboys, making the score 14-0. The crowd went crazy and the Cowboys ended up winning with a score of 21-20. The next game the Cowboys played the West Broward Bobcats. The Cowboys gave it their all the entire game, but lost 42-67. The Cowboys look forward to the Homecoming game this week on Friday against Piper High School.

“The best part of the season was bonding with teammates and getting to know one another and not only becoming a team, but a family,” Senior Justin Croye said.

The Varsity team will be going to playoffs on November 10th at Milander Park, where they will face off against Mater Academy.

Not only did the Varsity team do well this season, but the JV did also. They lost four games, tied two of them, and won one of them. Their second game of the season took place at Cooper City High School, and they played against the Nova Titans. Arthur Brefil scored a touchdown in the first quarter along with Ray Batten. The Cowboys were able to score another touchdown in the third quarter, putting the final score at 20-0. The JV team also made their way to Cypress Bay High School and lost with a score of 24-36.

Erik Rozanski scored in the third quarter, along with Batten, Jack O’Malley, and Ryan Garcia. Batten’s touchdown was said to be one of the highlights of the game because he had gotten a concussion in the previous game and that was the first touchdown since his injury.

“The most memorable moments of the season were putting up fights even though we weren’t as prepared as the other teams,” Sophomore Bryce Ramirez said.

Both teams are continuing their seasons strong, and hopefully coming home with more wins.

The Cooper City High School boys and girls Cross Country teams had over all successful seasons on and off the field.

Before the season started, team members met at Vista View Park to train together for the season ahead, and some of the teammates travelled to South Carolina for a week-long Cross-Country camp. As the season began, “Pasta Parties” became a pregame ritual in which the team would gather the night before a meet in order to eat a proper meal and prepare.

“It was great for team bonding because we would all sit around a big table and talk like a family,” Sophomore Caitlin Reto said. “That’s a big part about being a part of cross country - you’re not just part of a sport or team, you are part of a family.”

The Girls and Boys varsity teams placed between 1st and 3rd during their weekly meets, exceeding their preseason expectations

The Girls Varsity team placed 3rd in Districts allowing them to proceed to Regionals, where they finished the season 9th overall. Senior Hannah Patten in particular had a great performance, winning the individual District title. Patten had a stand out season as a leader for the team, always encouraging her teammates along the way.

“Hannah was definitely a leader to the team,” Sophomore Alina Pereya said. “[She] was someone who would take charge in leading us.”

The boys team placed 5th in the District and as a team did not qualify for Regionals. However, Senior Keith Millovan represented the team by qualifying individually for Regionals. Millovan finished his season placing 105th in Regionals.

Patten and Millovan both plan on running in college next year. As for the rest of the team, they are looking forward to training harder to improve their running times and adapt to more rigorous courses next year. Though the Cross-Country season is over, their love for the sport has some members still meeting to train, hoping their dedication will get them to States next season.

Swimming recap

BY BRANDON BERMUDEZ Sports Writer

The Cowboys Swim Team had a very successful season for both male and female athletes.

The teams have constant workouts and training sessions so they can be prepared for competitions. To get prepared for each swim meet they have to train five days a week for an hour and a half. Many students are also on a team of “club swimmers,” who practice and compete out of school as well.

The team had some major accomplishments to show their hard work and dedication. Fifteen swimmers will be advancing to regionals, where the team hopes they will continue to win. The team gained around 20 new swimmers who had to be caught up with the rest of the team. Despite this, the team worked as a unit and moved through the water with ease.

“I wouldn’t go back and change anything about this season,” Captain Jordan Cook said. “Overall it was awesome and I enjoyed every minute of being with the team.”

This years Cowboys’ Swim Team did an outstanding job overall and the Girls were almost perfect as a team with a record of 7-1, leaving them with high hopes for next season.

“If I could give any piece of advice to future swimmers it would be to not count the laps, but make the laps count,” Cook said. “Leave all out in the pool and enjoy your time on the team.”

Five swimmers will be competing at States on November 5th, including three individuals and one relay team.

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