December/January Issue 2011/2012 by Lightning Strike

THE

lightningstr ke Taking Miami-Dade by storm

Dr. Michael M. Krop Sr. High • 1410 Countyline Road • Miami, Florida 33179

January 25, 2012 • Issue 4 • Volume 14

WASH F R CASH FUNDRAISER

By Dean Kaire staff writer Last year, Krop was fined close to $331,000 by the Florida High School Athletic Association (FHSAA) for providing falsified information of a student’s address to allow him to play for the basketball team. Along with the fine, the school was placed under athletic probation and the basketball team will not play in post season games for the next three years. If the school fails to pay half of the fine by this year and the other half the following year, the consequence could be

the termination of the school’s athletic program. This September, Principal Dawn Baglos attended a FHSAA legislative meeting in Gainesville and fines where reduced to approximately $53,000. The fines were subsequently reduced to 23,000 dollars. “Don’t worry, I don’t sleep at night,” Baglos said. She explained what she intends to do if athletics are terminated. “They will not get cut off; failure is not an option.” Baglos is working on rebuilding a positive relationship with the FHSAA legislative

board, and was asked to serve as a member. She referred to it as, “the building process for our school and our athletes.” Through several fundraisers Baglos hopes to pay off the debt. Currently, the school’s athletic teams are holding car washes to contribute to the fine. The first car wash was on Dec. 11, 2011. Fifty students attended the second car wash held on Jan. 8. Athletic Director Michael Kypriss says he was pleased with the outcome of the carwashes. The next car wash will be on Super Bowl Sunday, Feb. 5 at the Tire Choice auto shop on Ives Dairy. “It was fun to help out and

“

see all the sports teams come together to support a cause that effects us all,” swimmer Adam Tzur said. Along with the car washes, the sale of pillow pets and hoodies are also contributing towards the fine. Baglos intends to seek outside sponsors to assist paying off the debt, due to the fact the school is unable to pay out of its operating account Baglos reiterates that it’s not only the basketball team’s responsibility to help reduce the fines, but the school’s as a whole. “As a school you function as a family and a team,” Baglos said.

LIGHTNING PRIDE

“

Students fundraise to pay for school ﬁne

AS A

SCHOOL YOU FUNCTION AS

A FAMILY

AND A

TEAM

PRINCIPAL DAWN BAGLOS

Principal tackles school spirit By Michael Behfar co-spread editor In the midst of the school’s multi-thousand dollar fine and the basketball team’s ban from playing competitively, Principal Dawn Baglos is busy trying to heal the school’s reputation.

Krop maintains its “A” status Pages 10-11

Instilling a sense of school spirit among students and faculty is one of her priorities. Baglos says that among her challenges, is the diversity of the student body, all of whom have varying interests. In a school of nearly 3,000 students, says Baglos, it is hard to host activities that appeal to

everyone, noting that being in a big city, students have better things to do after school than go to a school-sponsored event.

SHE’S GOT SPIRIT, HOW ‘BOUT YOU: Principal Dawn Baglos discusses the issue of school spirit during a press conference with the newspaper class. During the conference they brainstormed different ways to promote spirit and launch school activities.

►turn to Baglos rebuilds spirit in the face of adversity on spread page 10

A glimpse into the lives of our foreign exchange students Page 14

.. .

More Inside: Why our school is “unspirited”, page 5 Lisbeth Salander: an unlikely heroine, page 7 Tebowing, the latest trend, page 17

News

tops From local to global: Page 2

The Lightning Strike • December 2011-January 2012

KROP’S

The Film Club’s short ﬁlm, “Moishe and the Sea of Cars,” was selected to screen at the Miami Jewish Film Festival under the Young Filmmaker’s Institute . Junior Benjamin Englard was one of the twenty student researchers from Florida selected to present his independent research project to the University of Florida science and math faculties and math faculties in the 49th Annual Junior Science, Engineering and Humanities Symposium. Clerical Nancy Tracy was awarded Ofﬁce Employee of the Year and security guard Gloria Duggins Paraprofessional/School Support Personnel of the Year.

What’s going on around the world concerning Arab Springs?

The Arab Spring is a group of protests and demonstrations that sprung up from the Arab world two years ago and still continues today. SYRIA: Jordan’s King Abdullah is the ﬁrst Arab leader to call for Syrian President Bashar al-Assad to step down after the Syrian protest began in March 15, 2011.

LIBYA : Five people were killed and 20 wounded when clashes broke out between pro- and anti- Gadhaﬁ forces in the Libyan city of Bani Walid, one of the last strongholds of those loyal to the late leader, a government ofﬁcial said Monday.

EGYPT: Former Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak, who was accused of corruption and of the deaths of protesters during Egypt’s uprising, has been put on trial to die

AFRICA: Hundreds of African refugees have been released from captivity in the Sinai Peninsula and have been allowed to cross from Egypt into Israel. Shortly after, a CNN documentary aired detailing the horrendous conditions the migrants face.

YEMEN: Thousands in Yemen walked around for ﬁve days, protesting a rejection of the immunity of prosecution given to President Ali Abdullah Saleh.

ALGERIA: A kidnapped Algerian regional governor has been freed after his captors were intercepted inside Libya on Jan. 17. sources: CNN.com MSNBC.com Compiled by Alexis Frankel

Compiled by Ariana Rogers

RECOVERY

HAITI: TWO YEARS LATER By Ariana Rogers news editor

January 12, 2010 was probably one of the most signiﬁcant yet devastating days in Haiti’s history. It was on this day that approximately 220,000 people died, more than 300,000 were injured and 1.5 million became homeless after a 7.0 magnitude earthquake shook the country to near ruins. This would prove to be an unfavorable event to any country faced with such an earthquake, but in a country where more than 86 percent of people in its capital lived in buildings one step up from a shack, it was catastrophic. After the quake Almost immediately aid was sent to help rebuild Haiti. In 2004 at the World Bank Donors’ Conference, 13 countries, including the US, pledged a total of 1.085 billion dollars to Haiti. However, the disorganization within Haiti’s government made others reluctant to donate and money the

government did manage to get had little effect on the construction process. The people of Haiti and the countries offering aid grew increasingly frustrated with how long the process was taking. Delayed recovery To manage the 634,000 people left homeless after the quake people were brought into temporary camps and provided with clean water and shelter. Nevertheless, they ended up staying longer than planned because of indecision of how to allocate money on the government’s part. What was meant to be a temporary ﬁx became a permanent solution for many Haitians. Soon the camps became overpopulated. Crime within the camps escalated as people became increasingly desperate to gain basic resources like food, shelter and water. Disease After it seemed the worst was over, a cholera epidemic spread throughout Haiti claiming hundreds of lives 10 months after the earthquake. Doctors rushed to

contain the disease before it got out of hand with 3000 admitted to hospitals. One out of 13 died from the disease. Today Today, Haiti still needs a lot of work with over 500,000 people still homeless. However, the nation has come a long way from previous the two years. Buildings like the Port-auPrince airport and parliament building complex that were severely damaged were not only rebuilt, but improved. The rubble has been greatly reduced, children are going back to school, and there are signiﬁcantly less people living in tents. Haiti’s president is now former singer, Michel Martelly whose recent plans for the country include using 95 million dollars to recreate a new 3,500 Haitian military. His reasons for doing so was to help people feel safer and to employ more people with jobs. He also has hopes to improve the countries tourist industry.

2010 2012 The following statistics show Haiti’s progress since the earthquake occurred in 2010 and what the Haitian people have accomplished since then.

cubic meters of rubble was strewn across Port-Au-Prince

cubic meters has been cleared

1.5

250

people left were homeless

people live under tents and tarps at 758 camps across the capital

buildings were destroyed by the earthquake

homes have been repaired

million

thousand

thousand people were fed daily by the UN’s World Food Program

4.6 billion

www.ﬂickr.com

RECONSTRUCTION: The top photograph shows the resulting damage of the Presidential Palace caused by the 2010 earthquake in Haiti. Since then repairs have gone underway and the building has been restored to its previous state.

in funds was pledged to Haiti

million

thousand

45 percent

of Haitians face food insecurity

percent

has actually been delivered compiled by Sharon Sabbagh

News Page 3

The Lightning Strike • December 2011-January 2012

NEWS BRIEFS Parents take alternative DRIVER’S-ED RANGE

Future bill may raise driving age

Last March, Florida representative Irv Slosberg proposed a bill to raise the driving age for all teen drivers. The Mature Drivers Act would increase the legal driving age from 16 to 17 years old. Slosberg believes that teens are too easily distracted; increasing the age would prevent the number of accidents. Each year from 1993 to 2003, 16 year olds were more likely than older teens to speed, make driving errors and be involved in single-vehicle crashes. They are also 21 percent more likely than 17 year olds to be involved in a car accident. The Act will be decided in July 2012. If the bill passes, 16 year olds would be eligible to receive their learners permit and 17 year olds for their license.

-Clarissa Buch

TRANSPORTATION

New app aids bus travelers By Javier Storch photo and web editor Sophomore Zion Edelson pulls out his iPhone as he waits for the Miami-Dade metro bus. Instead of playing Angry Birds or accessing his Facebook wall, Edelson opens the Miami-Dade Transit Tracker app and checks the arrival time of bus number 99. The Miami-Dade Transit Department (MDT) released the app for mobile devices that allows users to locate nearby bus stops, Metrorail stations and Metromover stations. It checks arrival times, plans trips using the Google Maps app and accesses bus schedules by stop. Edelson said the app is better than using the MiamiDade Transit website because it’s more organized, quicker and allows users on the go to check bus schedules. The Transit Tracker app was the result of a resolution proposed by County Chairman Joe Martinez. According to resolution R-164-11, the Transit Tracker app was meant to ease ridership and provide convenience for passengers. Arrival time on the app includes all existing bus stops, unlike past technology which was only calculated by major stops. The new method of arrival time allows for more exact arrival time for all riders. “The easier it is, the more likely for new travelers to use,” Miami-Dade Public Information Ofﬁcer Karla Damian said, “I welcome those willing to try it.” Riders can also submit comments and suggestions

regarding their transit experience. Even though the app is made for Miami-Dade county, it can plan trips from Broward county to Miami-Dade. “I used to wait around for the bus, not knowing when it was going to come, but I realized that the app provides better timing because of its tracking feature,” sophomore Lucia Pierson said. “Now I can time it so that I get to the bus stop just before it comes.” The app, which is free on the App Store, is only available for the iPhone, iTouch, and iPad. Compatibility for other devices is currently in the works. For more information about the app, visit www.miamidade. gov/transit. To download the app, search “Miami-Dade Transit Tracker” in the App Store.

Corrections from last issue Sports sectionIn the information box titled “Boys Cross Country Regional Results” on the bottom of page 17 the headline said that the results were from “regionals” when it was actually districts.

route to drop off students Sara Alvarez staff writer Getting to class on time is a struggle for students, and those reaching for the door knob of their first period class at 7:21 can be out of luck. However, due to the efforts of Principle Dawn Baglos, the long car lines have been substantially reduced. After hearing numerous complaints, Baglos began exploring ways to reduce the line that leads to the entrance of the student parking lot in the back of the school. She attributed the problem to parents dropping students off at the entrance of the student parking lot and then proceeding to make three point turns to go back out, which held up traffic. For her first attempt, Baglos tried to make the parents drop their children off at the warehouses near the student lot. This failed because

that very day, a rainstorm made it impossible for students to reach their classes without being soaked. Next, Baglos attempted to get the parents to drop off in the park. This did not work either since the park management called to complain about the grass that was being damaged by the car tires. Finally, Baglos noticed the former driver’s-ed range that had previously been enclosed was now open and vacant. So she decided to allow parents to go in one way and out the another through this lot: problem solved! This being said, Baglos stressed that actual parent drop off is reserved in the front of the school. The consequences for being tardy have become a major concern. After the ﬁrst three tardies, students must serve a detention. After the fourth detention, students are required to attend Saturday school.

If these consequences are ineffective and continue to go unnoticed, suspension will result. Many students feel that being suspended from school for tardiness is uncalled for. “Two minutes doesn’t effect my learning, so why should I have to serve a detention for something that has no impact,” junior, Jhoan Vargas said. Although the policy students are forced to follow may seem drastic, Baglos makes a valid point. “You’re not being suspended for tardies, you’re being suspended for deﬁance,” Baglos said, “If you’re told to get to school on time, you need to get to school on time.” With the altered driving route and new system, tardies and detentions should be reduced, enabling students to get to class on time and not deal with the repercussions that come with being late.

CULTURE

Students compete in Brain Bowl

BLACK HISTORY: The following students competed against 32 different schools in Florida in the Regional Black History and Culture Brain Bowl competition at the FIU Biscayne Bay campus for the ﬁrst time: (left) Lyndall Vickers, Roksolana Havryliv, Destinee Haller, Charity Waweru, Ruth Smith, Azizat Adediran, Reesa Sharpe, Billy Scott (right). They were tested on 1,200 black history trivia questions and the books Color of Water, Thriller Michael Jackson, and Freedom in the Family. The competition took place January 21 from 7 am to 6 pm.

Editorial Page 4

POLITICS

Candidates should be judged by their political views, not pasts IN MY OPINION courtney goodstein

staff writer

In the opening moments of the Republican Primary debate, moderator John King asked Newt Gingrich about the ABC interview with his ex-wife which aired the day prior to the debate. In the interview, his ex-wife states that Gingrich requested to have an open marriage with her. “I am appalled that you would begin a presidential debate on a topic like that,” said Gingrich, who took a volatile stand against mass media during the debate. Although personal information gets harder to hide, should such information be used against presidential candidates? Candidates should be judged by their views, not drug use nor DUI charges. If the candidate has strong positions on issues and can lead our country successfully, their personal lives should not be taken into consideration when Americans are voting. Unless the issues will affect the candidate’s performance on the job, the information found should not made public. Our political leaders should have no criminal past, but just as Gingrich said on Thursday night, “Every person in here has had someone close to them go through painful things.” He also said that the destructive, vicious, negative nature of much of the news media makes it harder to govern this country, and harder to attract decent people to run for public office.”

Over the past ten years, American voting has decreased from 55 to 37.8 percent, with most Americans saying they did not vote because they did not like the candidates. But are they basing their decisions on what they are reading in newspaper and watching on television Before the invention of computers and other forms of technology, the word of the candidates themselves was what formed public opinion. But with the emergence of the Internet, information about candidates can spread in a matter of seconds, putting into question their character. For example, Herman Cain was accused of sexually harassing his female employees, and these allegations could have possibly forced him to withdraw from his presidential campaign, his character and morals put into question. Gingrich’s character is also being questioned as his inﬁdelity has caused Americans to question, “Do we want a cheater?” When a candidate runs for resident, they subject themselves to public scrutiny. If information from their past comes back to haunt them, it should be if it will affect how they run the country. As the next presidential election approaches, Americans need to be selective about how they judge the candidates. If issues and information will affect the performance of the candidate and affect the ability to make sound moral decisions than information should be used against the candidate, but if the information has no significance it should be discarded.

THE LIGHTNING STRIKE Visit us online at thelightningstrike.com

ERIC EIDELSTEIN, Editor-in-Chief SHARON SABBAGH, Managing Editor

ARIANA ROGERS News Editor SEBASTIAN ELEJALDE Opinion Editor TAYLOR SILVER Entertainment Editor CHRIS DOUGNAC MICHAEL BEHFAR Spread Editors LEIGH MARKOWITZ Feature Editor MADELINE GARFINKLE Science & Health Editor

DANIELLE MACKSON Business & Ad Editor GABRIELA MCKENZIE NATHALIE PRIETO Sports Editors ALEXIS FRANKEL CLARISSA BUCH Copy Editors JAVIER STORCH Photo & Web Editor MARYKAY SULLIVAN Advisor SUN COAST PRINTER Printer

EDITORIAL POLICY The Lightning Strike is the student newspaper of Dr. Michael M. Krop Senior High School: 1410 Countyline Road, Miami, FL 33179; (305) 652-6808 Ext. 238. Opinions expressed in the editorial section do not reﬂect the viewpoints or ofﬁcial policies of the school. Student editors make all content decisions. The Lightning Strike welcomes readers’ opinions on all topics. However, we will NOT print anonymous letters. Please keep letters under 150 words and saved to disk if possible. The editors reserve the right to reject, edit and condense letters. All letters should be turned in to room 2-233.

AD POLICY The Lightning Strike solicits advertising but reserves the right to reject any material deemed libelous, disruptive, obscene or otherwise inappropriate.

The Lightning Strike • December 2011-January 2012

“The Great Baglos Pole Vault”

CHRIS DOUGNAC

PROTEST

Occupying for the wrong reasons IN MY OPINION jared schermer

staff writer

There is a myriad of issues within the United States, be it our dwindling economy or corrupt politicians, but on Sept. 17. 2011, the “Occupy” movement gave us another reason to be upset with America. In a series of protests that are taking place in over 100 cities, Americans complain about how the bail-outs of 2008 were an indirect cause of unemployment and other economic issues America is dealing with. The “Occupy” protestors are fed up with one percent of the country making the most money, while the other 99% of the country must suffer, hence the slogan, “99 to 1.” But the protestors are mistaken, just because someone is not upper -class does not mean that they are struggling with ﬁnances. Another target of the Occupy movement is big corporations with CEOs that the Occupiers believe only think of themselves and disregard the treatment of their workers in under-developed, overseas areas. Apple’s factory workers in China have to take a pledge not to commit suicide after working under such harsh conditions. If this is so, then why did the Apple iPhone account for 30% of the 2011 smart phone market share in the United States? It is obvious that despite peoples’ extreme discontent with greedy executives, they still continue to patronize their corporations, thus leading to an ineffective and misdirected protest. Another claim is that the protestors are peaceful. Again,

they are horribly mistaken. The pepper-spraying incident in the University of California- Davis Occupy protest was an unnecessary act of violence by police. However, many Occupiers have been arrested for disorderly conduct. According to the Hufﬁngton Post, on New Year’s Eve dozens of protestors were arrested outside of New York City’s Zucotti Park for tearing down barricades set up by police and attempting to trespass into the park. There was also an incident at an Occupy Oakland tent setup where two people were shot and killed. Last time I checked, many arrests and two murders is not a good way to lead a peaceful protest. The protestors also believe that they have good intentions.

LETTERS On Krop geography Any teacher and student who gets to and from Krop via County Line Road knows that the road is awfully narrow. Since Krop was built on a landfill, it naturally isn’t an easy-access location. Ultimately, in terms of getting inside the building, Michael Jordan’s baseball career was more thought out than the access points to Krop. If you are nearing the building between 7:00-7:10 am, it would be easier to drive into Mordor. Once you get past the gates, the carpool circle is small and SLOW. This is because parents and their kids don’t respect a drop-off circle’s intended function: to drop kids off. There’s a gigantic patch of grass and trees on County Line Road. I’m certain that two more lanes could be fit in that little area to ease the traffic flow. Emanuel Isakov Grade 10

According to the movement’s ofﬁcial website, the protestors’ goals include standing up for oppressed people like immigrants and attempting to end Congress’ inefﬁciency. But these goals have transformed into ridiculous goals like eliminating the Federal Reserve, which seems crazy as the Federal Reserve has been in effect since 1913 and is responsible for many successful economic policies in the past. Unfortunately, the end of the protests does not look like it is coming any time soon. But protestors should take a moment to sit back and think about what they are opposed to and hopefully end those pointless gatherings that are the Occupy protests.

Inconsiderate skippers in the cafeteria I bet every one of you guys who are reading this article right now has had this experience: you wait in line to buy your lunch; you’re starving and can’t wait to get your slice of pizza. Suddenly there’s that kid who passes you and skips the entire line. You get mad and want to say something, but nobody else will so you just zip it and wait in pain for your lunch. Guys, seriously? You’ve got to be kidding me! Have you guys ever heard of being kind and waiting in line like you learned in kindergarten? I know they say life is short…but not that short. It’s not that hard – you just wait after the person in the back of the line until you get to the cashier, you pay for your lunch and go wherever you want to go. The people who are waiting in front of you will appreciate your kindness very much! Ellen Kohler Grade 11

Opinion Page 5

The Lightning Strike • December 2011-January 2012 FACULTY SPEAK OUT

IN MY OPINION gary feilich

guest writer

I admit it; I have been cruel to animals for most of my life. I love a good steak (medium rare), a hot dog at Costco, a rack of ribs at Flannigan’s or even some shrimp parmigiana at John the Baker. I love going to Kansas City to grade AP exams, as it is a true carnivore’s town. But please don’t repeat this to the cats and dogs that I have owned over the years, especially to our cat Snuggles, who we had to put down this past Labor Day weekend (after spending over 1000 dollars trying to save her life, all for naught). Yep, I am cruel, maybe even crueler than most of the other Science teachers here at Krop, as by my most conservative estimates suggest that in 35+ years of teaching, I must have participated in the “slice and dice” of at least 3000 frogs, certainly even more earthworms, and have probably

SCHOOL POLICY

provided “Fly-Nap” to well over 15,000 fruit ﬂies. Rather than dissect the points that Ms. Markowitz raises in her Op-Ed piece (questionable at best when one considers her sources), let me tell you a short story. I had this student a number of years ago (I’ll call him David), whom could have best been described as a “problem child”. He was in my intro bio class and the question came up as to whether or not to allow him the opportunity to do a frog dissection. I was encouraged by the principal to “stick him in the library” for the period as “he will only disrupt your class.” Oh well, foolish me, I decided to let him try the dissection, for at worst, I could always use the

scalpel on myself if he proved to be more unnerving than expected. Well, SURPRISE!!!!.... something happened. He saw the intro ﬁlm, and it was as if he was placed in a trance. He was mesmerized. He cut up that f r o g with

PHOTO BY SEBASTIAN ELEJALDE

such care and precision, I was in shock! From that day on, he was

a model student in my class. And you know what happened? He became real interested in science. And you know what happened? He started getting A’s. And you know what happened? He asked me a year or two later (when he had me again for AP Bio) if I could get him an internship doing some type of research. And you know what happened? He became a semi-finalist in the INTEL Science Talent Program. And you know what happened next? David graduated high school and was accepted into the University of Miami BA-MD program. And you know what will happen next? When my cardiologist retires in a year or two, David is going to become my cardiologist/internist (payback can be wonderful!!). And you know what I say to those who think REAL dissections are worthless or impractical? If just one of my students becomes a doctor and saves a life, it will be worth all the frogs, sharks, pigs, etc. that I have been cruel to as my students dissected them.

ACTIVISM

PETA takes animal rights’ protesting too far IN MY OPINION leigh markowitz

feature editor

Nintendo’s new game Super Mario 3D Land faces an attack from PETA (People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals) for its use of a Tanooki suit, a suit taken from the fur of a Japanese Raccoon Dog. PETA’s undercover investigations of this animal have shown that they are often skinned alive for the use of their fur; therefore, PETA believes that

Nintendo is supporting this abusive practice by using the Tanooki suit in their game. While PETA is right in that it is immoral to support such a practice, this act by Nintendo is not grounds for legal action. Television shows, magazines, and movies have featured people and characters wearing fur over and over again without being sued, and while wearing fur supports animal cruelty, this lawsuit will do no more than further convince people that PETA’s ideas are radical. Actions such as this law suit

and their “I’d Rather Go Naked Than Wear Fur” campaign are giving PETA a bad reputation and by extension the animal activist community as a whole. “I’d Rather Go Naked Than Wear Fur” involved people posing naked to show their opposition to fur clothing. Those that may have found this vulgar would be less likely to take the time to understand the purpose of the movement because of the measures taken to express it. People associate movements to prevent animal cruelty with

PETA, and therefore if they are in disagreement with the abrasive exterior PETA takes on, they won’t support the root of the organization’s actions, which is to instill the importance of animal kindness into people’s hearts. In order to garner support for the noble cause of halting animal cruelty, it is more important that animal rights organizations like PETA expose the cruelty and teach the community how they can help, rather than creating this radical image that turns people away from the cause.

Tardy policy is ﬂawed IN MY OPINION michael behfar

co-spread editor

By 7:21, the CSI room is ﬁlled; 7:22, there is a short line outside; 7:25, the line is 100 people deep and three abreast. The cause? Lockout, something meant to discourage tardiness. Lockout as a motivator is not bad, but the execution is ﬂawed. The policy meant to stop students from arriving to class late strips them of more class time than they would otherwise have. Meanwhile, classes are frighteningly easy to skip. All of the security posted around CSI could be put to better use patrolling the hallways in search of the students who avoided class altogether. Each morning students pile in front of the CSI room, wait for a while, give someone at a computer their ID number, and receive a printed pass. The students then make their way up to class. Then they interrupt the teacher to hand them a pass, take a seat and catch up on missed notes. Time and effort wasted in the CSI room. The hassle of waiting in line could be avoided if teachers were able to print the same exact tardy pass. The printing step could even be skipped if the teacher would insert the tardy directly into the attendance roster. Problems continue to arise in the four-minute journey to the next class. Slow-walking students, stairs and locked doors are a few of the obstacles encountered. Certain classes are spaced just far enough apart to force a student to either power walk to class or face a quickly growing number of unexcused tardies. Bless the teachers who don’t punish every student who walks in a minute late, for they are only victims of an inconvenient and counterproductive policy.

STAFF EDITORIAL

Oh school spirit, where for art thou? When you watch Glee, Friday Night Lights, or other high school-related TV shows, don’t you notice the rampant school spirit? Everyone attends the events wearing the school colors. Hundreds of people cheer for the comical mascot, the cheerleaders, and the football team—regardless of whether they win or lose. On the other hand, Krop is composed of an extraordinarily “unspirited” student body. Our newspaper class, for example, has 21 students who spend the last two weeks of every month slaving over a paper we hope everyone

will read. We are desperate for your compliments and criticisms especially in the form of “Letters to the Editor.” We publish about three or four a month and give you the opportunity to express frustrations, show a sense of humor, or respond to the articles we write. Our school is practically begging for you to become involved. Our activities director, class and clubs sponsors, and the best CAP advisors in Dade County send out daily announcements and weekly e-mails advertising upcoming events, clubs to join,

ﬁeld trips, and games to watch. We have so much to be proud of: -We are an “A” school. -Our students win scholarships and get accepted to prestigious universities every year. -We have an amazing athletic program and our teams often compete in district, regional and state competitions. -We have amazing service and academic clubs. -We have one of the best magnet programs in the state. With all these achievements, why aren’t we showing school

spirit? Why aren’t we so much as attending basketball, baseball, and football games? There were less than 50 kids out of a student body of almost 2,800 who supported the athletic department’s recent car wash. In light of recent budget cuts and a hefty ﬁne from the Florida High School Athletics Association, you’d expect the student body to come together for these fundraisers. Only a small amount of students participate in class decisions and meetings and few realize they are behind the events that the majority does not attend. The magnet performances

are also plagued by a lack of attendance. The music, drama, dance, and art students work tirelessly to entertain the student body—for what? The other day, we sent a reporter to ask random students about our school mascot. Of 20 students, only two knew that we had a mascot, and only one of those kids knew it was “Lightning Man.” This issue, the Lightning Strike explored school spirit. We are fortunate enough to be in a school that encourages involvement and does everything possible to get information out to the masses.

Entertainment

The Lightning Strike • December 2011-January 2012

Page 7

FILM

Dragon Tattoo’s Lisbeth Salander: an unforgettable heroine INMYOPINION

eric eidelstein

editor-in-chief

Cosmetically she is a pale, emaciated Goth with an extraordinary amount of facial piercings and a dragon tattoo on

her back. Beneath the surface she is an introverted computer hacker with a photographic memory, keen to escape the violent, male-dominated world she was born in to. She is Lisbeth Salander, protagonist in Stieg Larsson’s Millennium trilogy. With the Hollywood adaptation of Larsson’s first novel, The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo just reaching American audiences on a grand scale, the Swedish trilogy has sparked a cult following. Millions of people are desperate to follow the mysteries that surround journalist Mikael Blomkvist and hacker Lisbeth Salander. I have read all three novels, watched all three Swedish films, and recently watched the first installment of the American version, directed by

‘Paradise’ is found in Coldplay’s Mylo Xyloto There is a major crisis in the music world that has been going on for the last decade: the decline of rock music. The genre that built modern music to what it is today is slowly slipping into oblivion, with bands like R.E.M. and The W h i t e Stripes calling quits, rock stations everywhere s l o w l y shutting down and the Top 40 charts being dominated by electronica, pop, and rap. With their new album “Mylo Xyloto,” Coldplay brings an eccentric mix of Kraftwerk, modern indie rock and U2 to the table, with the help of legendary ambient music pioneer and former-Roxy Music member Brian Eno. Eno helped the band stitch their songs together, with brief, uplifting instrumental sections,

who received acclaim for their unique interpretations of Lisbeth Salander, make the character one of the most fascinating and complex I have seen in film or text. What first came to mind when I read The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo was that Salander is a female combination of Holden Caulfield or maybe a Hannibal Lector. She is manipulative, filled with angst, vicious, and slightly insane. She is not easy to forget. Salander is one of the few female character in any modernday popular film or book that would not make the Bronte sisters roll over in their graves. She is independent and not desperate for love and attention like Twilight’s Bella Swan. She is also courageous, witty and intelligent: a contrast to

the “strong female characters” my Netflix queue sees in Teen Mom. After watching multimillion dollar film empires like Harry Potter and Twilight, both which focused on either a male character or a weak-minded female one, it is refreshing to see novels and films that don’t paint woman as domesticated automatons. The Hunger Games, for example, a relatively new trilogy that will make its cinematic debut in March, defies these recent trends and finds a strong female character in Katniss Everdeen (For more information see Harry Potter v.s Hunger Games on page 8). Although the Millennium trilogy has enough violence, sex and vulgarities to keep anyone interested, its brilliance lies in Lisbeth Salander, an unforgettable heroine.

TECHNOLOGY

ALBUM REVIEW

By Matthew Isenberg guest writer

the renowned David Fincher (Fight Club, Zodiac, The Social Network). As an aspiring journalist, I was drawn to the series by the investigative reporting that took place in the first novel, where Swedish billionaire Henrik Vanger hires Blomkvist to investigate the apparent death of his niece—a true Zodiackiller case. Blomkvist navigates his way through grotesque murders, biblical allusions and a family composed of Neo-Nazi rapists, all with the help of a curious and enraged Salander. Despite slight differences in the adaptations, with the Swedish films having a lower budget and the American one adhering more to Larsson’s novel, I found both equally engaging. Noomi Rapace and Rooney Mara, rising actresses

layers of keyboards, and trippy, psychedelic-esque noises. The band shows their rock side in the form of art rock, post-punk, and early alternative rock. Eno brings the art rock, which shows from the glitchy synthesizers in the track “Princess of China” featuring pop megastar Rihanna. The early alternative rock i n f l u ences are s h o w n f r o m the licks guitarist Jonny Buckland unleashes on songs like “Every Teardrop Is A Waterfall.” The post-punk influences come in, not only through the music, but also through singer Chris Martin’s lyrics, in which he describes life, love and angst, with subtlety reminiscent of bands like Sonic Youth and New Order. Y-100’s constant loop of Nickelback and Cobra Starship pale in comparison to Coldplay’s rock revival. Catch them in concert Jun. 29 at American Airlines Arena.

By Clarissa Buch co-copy editor Music is known to transform your mood, but to what extent? High-energy songs pump us up. Gloomy songs make us sad. However, with the power of new technology, can certain songs now give us the same results as illicit drugs? Newfound websites claim that the usage of binaural beats are the key to reach a state of “high.” Binaural beats is a brain response that produces an altered state of brainwaves that takes place when it is presented with two slightly different tones. I-Doser, one of the most known sites that offer these beats, state that the usage of their product will induce a simulated mood or experience that can imitate recreational drugs. All the user needs is headphones and quiet place to listen. I-Doser offers a wide variety of MP3’s, known as “doses,” that one can download off of their website. The most popular downloads are intended to mimic the effects of marijuana or alcohol. Imitations of hardcore drugs such as cocaine, acid, crystal meth and ecstasy are also available. I-Doser states that there are three classes of people which are the following: Susceptible to Binaural Beats, Originally Unsusceptible to Binaural Beats and Immune to Binaural Beats. Therefore it does not work for everyone. “After listening to the mp3, I did not feel any change in my body or mind,” senior Josh Rich said. “I think it could work if

you follow the directions and like a meditation CD, but just a concentrate very hard for the little more intense, kind of like a ridiculous 25 minutes, than I self-induced dream.” Health and science teacher don’t see why it isn’t possible.” But I-Doser is surrounded Lisa Berner explained that even by controversy. Even though though there is no proof claiming the company claims the beats that digital drugs are dangerous will work, there is no sufﬁcient or not, it makes more sense evidence that they produce to take advantage of natural chemicals real effects of that the body drugs or if it is produces just a placebo that decrease effect. There is stress and also no proof pain and that these MP3’s “It’s kind of like increase are dangerous. a self-induced dream” a sense of However, they advise users -Jared Cove, sophomore c a l m n e s s and wellto not operate being and heavy machinery do not have or drive under the addictive the inﬂuence of an I-Doser dose that is marked and dangerous properties drugs or potentially digital drugs “strong.” “I think it’s real, but it’s not contain. “We all have natural like it’s supposed to do what people expect; it’s not meant chemicals manufactured in to make you totally trip out and our brains called endorphins,” make you hear colors and feel said Berner. “The production sounds or something crazy like of these endorphins can be that,” sophomore Jared Cove stimulated by laughter, exercise, said. “From what I found out music, eating chocolate, getting from my friend who actually a moderate dose of sunlight and used it in front of me, it’s a lot even massage therapy.”

Entertainment Page 8

The Lightning Strike • December 2011-January 2012

TECHNOLOGY

3D reaches out to audiences

IN MY OPINION javier storch

photo & web editor

From 3D YouTube videos to 3D TVs, three-dimensional technology has revolutionized the viewing experience. This century’s 3D films have become last century’s color films. While many say that 3D is just a trend, I strongly believe that it’s to become an innovation in cinema.

Oscar-winning directors Steven Spielberg and Martin Scorsese recently made their 3D directorial debuts with Spielberg’s Tintin and Scorsese’s Hugo. George Lucas has planned to rerelease the Star Wars saga in 3D, starting February 2012, and James Cameron’s Titanic is soon to follow. Cameron, with Avatar developing for 10 years, having already entered 3D cinema with Avatar and created his own 3D technology. Although the popularity

of 3D cinema has risen and fallen over the years, the height of today’s 3D domination is greater than ever before, which suggests that 3D may soon shed its label as a trend. Studios periodically revive the past 3D trend for the same reason that clothing stores revive their fashion trends; it generates larger income. What separates this new revival from past ones is that 3D has now become globalized and relatively inexpensive to produce. If the studios executives are getting

-VSThe final movie installment in the Harry Potter franchise marked the end of an era, yet will remain a significant part of our generation’s childhood. Devoted followers feel they have grown up with Harry, Ron, and Hermione and no other franchise has been able to incite such an attachment to heroic teenage protagonists. Until now. When Suzanne Collins published The Hunger Games in September 2008, no one could have predicted the novel becoming a world phenomenon. A USA Today and New York Times Best Seller, the novel’s sales have reached 100 million worldwide. The story revolves around Katniss Everdeen, a teenager living in a futuristic society. With her father’s death and her mother’s low- income job, Katniss is forced to hunt in the forest to provide for her family.

The futuristic society is composed of 12 Districts living in the nation of Panem, and then one powerful Capital in control. Years ago, the districts rebelled against the Capital and lost. As a punishment, a boy and a girl from each district a r e

selected randomly every year to participate in a blood bath to fight to the death. They are called The Hunger Games. The Hunger Games is the first book of a trilogy, followed by Catching Fire, and then, Mockingjay. After the success of the series, the first book was made into a movie and is slated to be released March 23rd. Oscar nominated actress, Jennifer Lawrence, is set to star as the lead role as Katniss. Alongside Lawrence is winner of the Young

advanced and continues to improve. Compared to the paper colored glasses used until earlier this decade, today’s plastic glasses employ new methods of 3D that allow for a better viewing experience. Lord of the Rings director Peter Jackson said that at some level, he believes almost any movie benefits from 3D. “As a filmmaker, I want you to suspend disbelief and get lost in the film- participate in the film rather than just observe it. On that level, 3D can only help.”

The February Playlist

FACE-OFF

By Dean Kaire staff writer

big, fat paychecks from 3D, it’s almost certain that 3D will stay for good. Hollywood films are, and always have been, a business. Movie audiences constantly depend on the studios for entertainment and an outlet to disperse their hard-earned money. It’s obvious that audiences seem to enjoy 3D movies or they wouldn’t pay $12 to $15 to see them. Seven out of the top 10 highest-grossing movies of 2011 were in 3D. Today’s technology is

Artist Award, Josh Hutcherson, who will play Peeta Mellark, a boy nominated from Katniss’ district. Lionsgate owns the rights to the franchise and intends to split the trilogy of books into four movies. Both the Harry Potter and Twilight franchises have split one book into two films. Bold expectations are in store for the franchise. Analysts from the L.A. Times predict that over the next six years, they will make a profit close to $475 million off of the movies alone. The Hunger Games, which was produced on a small budget of $80 million is expected to get the majority of their box office sales very quickly primarily from their devoted Hunger fans. In the coming months leading up to the anticipated release of the first film, prepare to hear frequent conversations on what will prove to be the movie event of the year, that will leave viewers hungry for more.

Songs United States of Pop 2011 by DJ Earworm United States of Pop 2011 - Single

White Lie by Jhameel Dance EP

Safe & Sound by Taylor Swift Ft. The Civil Wars The Hunger Games Soundtrack

Blue Sky by Common The Dreamer/The Believer

We Are Young by Fun. Ft. Janelle Monae Some Nights

Same Way by Mod Sun Let Ya Teeth Show Mixtape

Friend Crush by Friends Friend Crush - Single

Dreamer by iSH Dreamer - Single

Brighter Than the Sun by Colbie Caillat All of You

White Girl Problems by Hoodie Allen Leap Year

Compiled by Clarissa Buch and Taylor Silver

JOIN YOUR

Parent Benefits: Information about important issues affecting your child Volunteer opportunities Invitation to all PTSA meetings Assistance from experienced parent-members

Student Benefits: Annual Student Lunch One free practice SAT or ACT test Volunteer opportunities Representation at PTSA meetings Opportunity to apply to PTSA scholarships Student prizes

Teacher Benefits: Departmental and teacher’s grant “Welcome Back” breakfast Teacher prizes Holiday Lunch FCAT breakfast “Teacher Appreciation” lunch Special price membership fee

S AV E T H E D A T E . . . Feb. 9,10,13,14

Feb. 18 Practice Stanly Kaplan

Valentines sale Stuffed animals, chocolates cookies and more on sale during both lunches

April 26 Fifth annual silent auction and gala and Newport Beachside Resort

Page 10

The Lightning Strike • December 2011-January 2012

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Educational reform takes a minimum of three years to change school spirit.

“ “

AT A

Educational reform takes a minimum of three years to change school spirit.

“

L A N C E

Baglos rebuilds spirit in the face of adversity ►School Spirit from front page But Baglos’ style is to be hands-on and approachable. “I make a point of being visible,” Baglos said. She uses the announcements to inform students about student accomplishments and upcoming school events. She intends to create a unified atmosphere that welcomes new students and parents. “I saw a disconnect with the incoming freshman classes, so I’ve been working with feeder schools such as Aventura Charter,” said Baglos. Outside of the student body, she aims to tear down the “wall,” as she described it, which prevents parents from feeling like a part of their child’s school. “I don’t leave school until I have answered every e-mail from that day,” Baglos said. Another goal is to connect to the community. Baglos wants parents and students alike to have a voice in the school.

98, d in 19 e t c u r t s rst con r were When fi ack and Silve purple Bl of Krop’s . The shades e as iat red seeing nts now assoc lors were e d co that stu inent school past m o r os from ed t o their p h P . ight r lly red origina s reveal the br e school k th yearboo used to make bus lane t a he walls th low pillars in t eal their l e ev glow. Y ped away to r ue. ip dh have ch wer-ranger re o p former

The metaphorical wall is something which Krop’s first principal Enid Weisman, now an Assistant Superintendant of both magnet and charter schools, had little trouble with between 1998 and 2003. She, too, made a point of being visible by meeting regularly with students, athletes, newspaper staff, and SGA. In her eyes, the school felt like a family. “We had the best teacher and student attendance in the district,” Weisman said. “I talked, and, more importantly, listened a lot.” Krop’s fluctuating growth over the years - from 1,500 to 3,800 to 2,800 today - has been a challenge for each of its four principals. Baglos, who started the year with the theme that, “One person can make a difference,” remembered Krop’s original slogan: “Taking Miami-Dade by storm.” She intends to revive that motto. Sebastian Elejalde contributed to this report

From Krop the Vaul t Comp ile Behfar d by Michae l and Ja vier St orch

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There in t inbo e-ma wh their

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The Lightning Strike December 2011-January 2012

Baglos n Spirit “

ucational reform es a minimum of e years to change school spirit.

“

On Changes

n New Students

“

’s original slogan: king Miami-Dade ounty by storm.’ going back to that.

“

On The Slogan

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m the principal and e’s a problem, it’s job to find a solu, even if it’s longterm.

“

olving Problems

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ke to see students h various opinions d interests come gether and say, e are all Krop students.’

“

On Unification

By Sharon Sabbagh managing editor

Krop has maintained an “A” grade for the second consecutive year. This is the fourth “A” Krop has received since the school’s inception in 1999. The grade was awarded under the auspices of former Principal Mathew Welker. In the seven school years Welker served as Krop’s principal, the school was awarded an “A” three times. “I emailed him [Welker] immediately to let him know,” Principal Dawn Balgos said, “It is his ‘A’ not mine” Baglos commends Krop’s teachers for setting high standards and students working hard in order to meet them. “It’s simple,” she said. “Great teachers, great students plus a great staff equals success.” To maintain Krop’s “A” status, Baglos plans to keep in place Reading Plus and Science Gizmos. However, new policies will be implemented specifically to help the lowest quadrant, or bottom 25 perecnt of students. FCAT had traditionally been the sole marker for grading

schools, but in 2008 the grading system for schools was revamped with SB 1908 and the weight of FCAT scores on a school’s grade was lowered to 50 percent. The other half of a school’s grade is determined by a variety of factors including, graduation rate, participation and performance in accelerated coursework, and the learning gains of the lowest quadrant. If less than 50 percent of the lowest quadrant makes learning gains, a school can be dropped an entire grade. Krop scored dangerously low in this category and just made the cut with 51 percent of the lowest quadrant making reading gains in reading in 2011. In order to boost the scores of this student population, a faculty meeting was held where the three weakest benchmarks were identified. Later, the four assistant principals met with the language arts, math and science department heads to analyze the fall interim assessment scores and assess what skills need to be re-addressed within each department. These steps will be repeated after the winter interim assessment scores are released.

KROP ‘S

1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011

C C C A B B B B C A B A A

20 percent of seniors graduated

Percent of students who met FCAT standards

83 57 44 in math

in reading in science

1999-2001 under Principal Enid Weisman 2002-2004 under Principal George Nunez 2005-2011 under Principal Matthew Welker

Lessons In School Spirit By Danielle Mackson business editor

All year long, students can choose from a variety of fun, extracurricular activities that foster school spirit. Pep rallies, class war competitions, dunk tanks, spirit weeks and even painting parking spots are a few that happened in 2011. Other South Florida high schools have their own unique events and ideas that raise school spirit. Sexy legs, bright smiles, and interesting talents may conjure up images of a typical women’s beauty pageant. However, these traits were exhibited at the Mr. Palmetto competition, a male spoof on beauty pageants held annually at Palmetto High School in Miami. The seven-year-old competition

had 37 male participants last December. The contest raises money for the school’s television production crew while increasing awareness of the clubs and sports that each contestant represents. The contest sells out seats and draws an audience of screaming female students. “The competition at my school increases school spirit like crazy,” said sophomore Palmetto student Harley Weinstein. “The attendance is so large and it makes all of us appreciate the school that we go to. The guys who aren’t participating don’t view it as a chance to make fun of the participants, but a chance to laugh with them and enjoy watching their friends embarrass themselves on stage.” Cypress Bay, a high school with an identical logo as Krop,

CLOSER LOOK

“

Krop makes the grade

A 11:

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e should be pride the fact that my ox is flooded with ails from parents ho want to enroll kids in our school

Page 11

holds an annual ‘Lightning Oscars’ sponsored by the SGA. The Oscars feature unique award categories like Edward & Bella, Future Ruler of the World, Bromance, Separated at Birth, McDreamy, and Celebrity Doppelganger. Regular and VIP seating is available at this popular event. “Mostly everyone gets into the school activities,” Cypress Bay sophomore student Barri Altschul said. “The Lightning Oscars event is really helpful. It gives students a chance for recognition which definitely increases the spirit and love for Cypress.” Students at North Miami Beach Senior High can purchase school spirit clothing online. NMB Charger sweatshirts, hoodies, T-shirts and hats are sold to give students convenient access to their

favorite school attire. Fun moments are captured forever on Miami Beach Senior’s School Spirit Blog. The blog features photos from pep rallies and other school events, and the HiTide Patrol captures school spirit on video and posts it on the blog. “Having school spirit is what makes high school something to remember,” said junior Miami Beach High student Micki Frai. “Watching the whole school come together to celebrate their respective classes is what makes a normal day of school fun!” Activities director Michelle Russell is working hand in hand with SGA to increase school spirit at Krop. “The school is too big, and we need to make this big school feel smaller.”

Feature

The Lightning Strike • December 2011-January 2012

Page 12

Mayan calendar predicts impending doom THEORIES

By Sebastian Elejalde opinion editor With the commencement of the year 2012, humankind continues to brood over threats about the end of the world. At the heart of these “doomsday theories” is the Mayan calendar, scheduled to end on the winter solstice, Dec. 21, 2012. The Maya, a Mesoamerican civilization whose culture and practices thrived until around 900 A.D., left behind many calendars, the longest of which is the “Long Count” – the source of the doomsday hype. This calendar is divided into 13 Baktuns, each lasting 394 years.

On Dec. 21, after 5126 years of the calendar’s existence, the calendar will end. Given the imminent date of the 13th Baktun, amateur theorists have proposed a number of possible events that could happen on the winter solstice. These include a deadly solar flare that will strike the Earth, a reversal of magnetic poles, a shift in Earth’s axis due to a planetary alignment, and the collision of Earth with a mysterious celestial body known as Planet X. Fears of the 2012 doomsday have since been disproven by scientific research. The Mayan calendar was nothing more than an agricultural tool, which may in fact have been intended

to restart after Dec. 21. Also debunked were the myths of Planet X (Nibiru), which has never been spotted within our solar system, and the planetary alignment theory, which has been proven to occur every 200 years but not perfectly. Similarly, the possibility of the magnetic poles’ reversal is possible, but a specific date cannot be determined. The same goes for the idea of a massive killer solar flare. Even during the Sun’s highest peak of activity (the “solar maximum”), solar flares would not be powerful enough to destroy Earth. Science teacher Sue Green compared the doomsday theories of 2012 to the Y2K scare that surged the country

“I want to eat the biggest cookie in the world before the end of the world.”

- Natalie Rossian, freshman

Bucket List Students speak out about what they want to accomplish before the world is predicted to end on December 21, 2012.

“ I want to see the president.” - Nicholas Hodgson, senior

“ I would like to see the world.”

- Deon Gedeon, sophomore

“ I would want to go to England.”

- Jessica Blumenfeld, junior

“ Bake a cake.”

- Allen Pottinger, freshman

before the year 2000. She has resigned to the fact that the media will report over the socalled “Mayan prophecy,” without acknowledging genuine global issues. “There are things that we know are a problem, like human world population, the fresh water crisis, and the way we’re farming with all these chemicals,” Green said. “It’s too political for us to just tell people how many kids to have, but that’s what needs to happen.” For Green, worrying about the possibility of the world ending is, in a word, stupid. “I can die just as easily driving on I-95, but that doesn’t mean I’m going to stop doing it,” Green said.

“ I want to go swimming in a pool that is at least six feet deep.” - Beverly Barthelemy, sophomore

“ I want to graduate.”

- Branden Watkins, senior

“ I would like everybody in

the school to give me food.” - Roxanne McDonald, sophomore

“ I would want to go bungee jumping.” - Mavialie Salvador, sophomore

Doomsday Theories

Chicago native Dorothy Martin, influenced by science fiction author Ron Hubbard, claimed that she had contacted aliens from the planet Clarion and the aliens said that the world would be flooded and the faithful would be rescued by flying saucers. Y2K Theory: At the turn of the millennium from 1999 to 2000, every computer would not be able to interpret the year 2000 and all computers would crash and planes would fall from the sky. Subsequently, the world would end. Heaven’s Gate Theory: In 1997, an alien spacecraft would emerge from the HaleBopp comet as it passed Earth, and Earth would be destroyed. Jehovah’s witnesses predicted the end of the world in 1874, 1914, or 1975. Second Coming of Christ: Influenced by Edgar Cayce, Kirk Nelson predicted that on Sept. 30, 1999 the second coming of Jesus Christ would somehow bring about the end of the world. compiled by Jared Schermer

AWARENESS

Heritage panel works to enhance school-wide acceptance By Blake Mars staff writer

“In order to understand how we are affecting other people by our own behavior, we have to hear other people express themselves,” counselor Lisa La Monica said. The Heritage Panel, a program sponsored by the Miami Coalition of Christians and Jews (MCCJ), aims to reduce and eliminate discrimination, bullying and harassment in schools and the community through education and peer dialogue. Eleven years ago, former TRUST Counselor Patricia Smith, introduced the Heritage Panel to Krop and eventually

recruited counselors Lisa La Monica and Sandra Manfredi. Over the last ten years, more than 250 students have participated in the Heritage Panel program under the direction of Smith, La Monica and Manfredi. Each year, teachers, counselors and administration recommend students to sit on the Heritage Panel. Manfredi says panelists are often selected based on strong sense of social justice, compassion, integrity, concern for others, and the ability to express themselves. Student panelists, who are usually chosen during sophomore year, go through a two-day training session involving personal growth and development, as well as skills

in team-building, speech, and trust. “I’ve never been one who is open to talk about things, but I learned how to formulate and share an experience from my life that could help educate others,” ﬁrst year panelist, sophomore Lucia Pierson said. Each panelist develops a story of a personal experience from three possible perspectives: a victim, witness or perpetrator of bullying or harassment. While some wonder why perpetrators are invited to sit on the panel, La Monica explained that the perpetrator’s story is the most profound one in that it comes from a person who has caused harm and realized that it is not acceptable. “People don’t change

because they are told to change,” La Monica said. “People change because they either get information or have an experience that makes them choose to change.” Heritage Panel presentations take place in most ninth grade world history classes. “We gear the presentations toward ninth graders because they are the most vulnerable, coming right from middle school,” Manfredi said. La Monica added that kids are more willing to learn from their peers than they are from an adult. In February 2011, recent graduate, Igal Rojzman represented Krop’s Heritage Panel when he was invited by Superintendent Alberto Carvalho to speak before the

School Board. “We work to spread the message that not only is diversity positive, but also a blessing in our communities,” Rojzman said at the School Board meeting. “It’s about trying to stop hate by walking in each others shoes and to prevent horrible tragedies.” While on the Panel, Rojzman was introduced to a concept that had a lasting impact on his experience: If love comes from the heart, then where does hate come from? Lessons learned on the Heritage Panel in school are transferred into the real world, where La Monica believes that those involved with the Panel continue to be advocates of compassion and acceptance.

Feature Page 13

The Lightning Strike • December 2011-January 2012 FACULTY PARENTS

This land is your land, this land is my land Students and their parents who teach at Krop, express how it feels to share both a home and a school. By Danielle Mackson business editor Most students happily leave their parents behind when they head to school in the morning. But a handful of students follow their parents into the crowded Krop hallways. What is it like to have a parent who teaches at the school? Latin and English teacher Joretta Hawkins Joretta Hawkins finds that having her daughter, Natisha, at Krop makes it especially easy to contact her teachers, keep track of Natisha’s activities and meet her friends. Hawkins is also Natisha’s teacher. “For the most part, having Natisha in my class is like having any other student, I have to consider her educational needs too,” Hawkins said. “However, I get to see firsthand her Natisha Hawkins strengths and weaknesses relative to her school success. It is insightful,” she said. Natisha enjoys having her mother teach at Krop and visits her often, even when she is not attending her class. “When Natisha comes by to see me, it brings joy to my heart,” Hawkins said. “Every parent should have the opportunity to have that experience at work. I guess they can wait for Take Your Child to Work

Day. I’m glad I don’t have to wait.” today.” Raya said. Raya Elias-Pushett also shares Elias sees only one drawback to the school day with her mother, teaching her daughter. social studies teacher Ellen “I think that it is harder Elias. for Raya than it is for “Normally, I’ll just me,” she said. “I only drop off a textbook worry that I am going so that I don’t to do or say something have to carry in any of my classes it all day or that would embarrass ask her to heat her.” up my lunch, Left: Ellen Elias, Right: Raya Elias-Pushett Elias has enjoyed but knowing that watching Raya grow as my mom is on campus is a little both a teacher and her mother. reassuring,” Raya said. “I’ll “Being a teacher at the definitely miss it next year school that my daughter when I go to college.” attends just gives me one Elias is both Raya’s more window into her AP Macroeconomics/ awesomeness,” Elias said. Government teacher and her Although sophomore sponsor as member of the Fernanda Izola’s father is a Class of 2012 and SHAPE. science teacher at the school, “I get the pleasure she does not see him often of seeing what a bright during the school day. student she is,” Elias said. “We barely see each other “[But] she is just another since most of my classes are student during class. I practically on the other side expect her to behave and pay Luiz Izola of the school,” she said. “I attention just like everyone go to his class basically to else.” head home, or if I get a good grade Raya revealed that on a quiz, I go inside and spread the she has to be especially news.” careful to uphold her Unlike Hawkins and Elias, Izola reputation, as the explains that he does not get to see things she does could Fernanda during the day. impact her mother “Having my dad work at Krop more than herself. is no big deal,” Fernanda said. “He’s However, she is not an embarrassing dad.” still thankful for the But there is one issue that causes encouragement her mother her slight concern. is able to give her. “It makes no difference if “Without her support, he works at school or not, but I definitely would not Fernanda Izola now he has his way of finding be as successful or out about my social life more,” as involved as I am Fernanda said.

Brilliant | Rothenberg | Meister PRACTICE LIMITED TO ORTHODONTICS

Students still face discrimination ACCEPTANCE

By Alexis Frankel co-copy editor While circumstances have improved for LGBT students, Gay Straight Alliance clubs and counselors can only do so much when it comes to halting discrimination. No longer an issue of harmless playground teasing, anti-gay bullying can mean the difference between life and death—and it has for a number of gay teens whose suicides have made headlines. Americans are now familiar with the gay Rutgers student, Tyler Clementi who was outed as gay over the Internet. Then there were the tragic suicides of two 13year olds who were ridiculed for being gay. Instances such as these exemplify the real problem bullying still presents. “When I was a freshman, I had a teacher who insulted me,” LGBT student, sophomore Jonathan Lang said. “I was standing up in class and he told me, ‘Sit down young man,’ looked me over again, and added, ‘Or whatever you are.’ Another time I had a student who wanted to jump me just because I was gay.” Although bullies are primarily responsible for their actions, schools should also be held accountable. According to a survey conducted by the Gay, Lesbian and Straight Education Network in 2009, only 18 percent of students said their school’s antibullying program addressed gay bullying.

Most students are unaware our school even has such a program. “We have an antibullying program?” junior Claudio Zelaya said. “I still wouldn’t go to the school if I were bullied because when I’ve gone to the school with a problem before, nothing was really done about it.” Anti-gay vernacular also plays its part in the discrimination of LGBT students. Students and adults alike can be heard saying, ‘That’s so gay.’ Studies show that students notice too. A National School Climate Survey has shown that 90 percent of high school students have heard the word “gay” used to mean stupid or worthless. “People are ignorant to the fact that these words could hurt other people’s feelings and annoy them,” GSA member senior Alan Chiznik said. “When one person wants to speak out in a group about it, they’ll get scared or nervous, and eventually not speak out at all; nothing gets resolved.” Counselors Lisa La Monica and Sandra Manfredi sponsor the Heritage Panel ,which aims to eliminate the discrimination, bullying and harassment of students in the community and school. However, the Heritage Panel cannot operate to its fullest potential because of their many responsibilities as counselors. “In the past, the Heritage Panel was able to visit all ninth grade history classes, I can’t say the same thing now,” La Monica said.

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PHOTO ILLUSTRATION BY JAVIER STORCH

I AM AN ALLY: Gay-Straight Alliance (GSA) sponsor and Student Services Counselor Lisa La Monica, stands outside of her office. Her door and window are decorated by acceptance stickers which signifies that her office is a “safe zone,” a place where students can fell safe regardless of the discrimination they may feel elsewhere.

Feature Q Students’ stories may “scar” you &A Page 14

The Lightning Strike • December 2011-January 2012

INJURY

With Krop’s foreign exchange students

“I was four and my older sister was chasing me with a spaghetti fork, when I turned around to see if she was still there, I hit a sliding glass door.” - Allan Pottinger, freshman

“I was visiting a family friend’s house and I was playing with their dog when he suddenly bite my head. His bottom teeth almost went in my eye and his top teeth went into my scalp.” - Sophia Fascia, sophomore

A ‘Krop’ of Pro ific Writers

PROFILE

Students find a new outlet for their creative expression.

By Madeline Garfinkle science & health editor

members and consists of three branches: the leaders, staff who work under the leaders, and the support team. The group addresses From elaborate raps to fun controversial topics that the dances, “Prolific Writers” do media may water down. One all they can to speak out about week this month they focused peace in a way that students on Martin Luther King, Jr. can relate. “Prolific Writers is a and how he used compassion to overcome oppression, movement for peace and it something Plummer believes uses the arts to convey that that politicians have message,” senior Georges forgotten. Plummer, an active member in One of their main the club said. purposes is inspiring people The organization and giving presentations was founded by senior on violence and other Alonzo Williams, but is world issues. run entirely outside “Prolific Writers” of school. The also has their own club consists merchandise that of films, they sell at events. photography, They sell hats and poems, art, shirts with their and dance, logo on it, colored all relating pencils. back to the The group same Prolific Writers founder, senior Alonzo Williams hopes to help idea, children and their next event overall peace and to end will be a poetry reading for negativity. Through art, they children at city hall on Feb. convey the idea of peace and 18. compassion. “We don’t give off the The organization began in cheesy idea of peace,” Plummer May of last year when Williams said. “It’s about finding peace heard of the organization called within because if you’re not at Falling Whistles, a campaign peace with yourself how can for peace in Congo, and you be at peace with the rest was inspired by its purpose. of the world?” The club now has about 25

“I was running like a wild guy when I was much younger when suddenly I hit a window sill with my head. My scar blends in with my scrunched brow sometimes, not many notice it, but it’s there.” - Jared Cove, sophomore “I fell off a motor scooter when I was little and my front teeth bit down into my lower lip, leaving small pieces of tooth inside my lip.” - Marina Pinagel, senior

“I was experimenting with shaving my legs when suddenly I slit my calf open. At first, I thought nothing happened, when suddenly it started gushing blood. I fell to the floor in agonizing pain.” - Mitchell Feigeles, senior “When I was a toddler I ran into the corner of a coffee table in my house. Because I was so small my forehead met up perfectly with the edge of the table.” - Gabriela Alcolea, sophomore compiled by Christian Dougnac

Rie Seto (R.S.), junior Ellen Kohler (E.K.), junior Johannes Parikka (J.P.), junior

Hometowns:

R.S: Kanazawa, Japan E.K: Zurich, Switzerland J.P: Tamoere, Finland

Q: What do you like about the United States?

R.S: To get burgers from Burger King. E.K: Everyone here is friendly and more open minded. People in Switzerland keep their distance and are much colder. J.P: Paddle boarding and south beach

Q: What do you miss from home?

R.S: Japanese food like Omurice, Carryrice, Ramen, and Udon. E.K: Waking up in the morning and seeing the sunrise over the mountains. Also everything in America is more expensive. J.P: Skiing, Ice Hockey, and the cold climate.

Q: What is your favorite music?

R.S: In Japan I really liked the band Poruno. But in America my favorite song has been “I’m Sexy and I Know It” by LMFAO. E.K: My favorite artist in Switzerland is DJ Cruz, and in America I have been listening to Afro Jack and David Guetta. J.P: In Finland I listened primarily to reggae, like the Finnish band Raappana, and in America I started listening to Tupac, DMX, and Lil Boosie. compiled by Christian Dougnac

Science & Health In the net we trust The Lightning Strike • December 2011-January 2012

Page 15

IN MY OPINION taylor silver

entertainment editor

I’m sitting at my computer watching MPAA (Motion Picture Association of America) AntiPiracy advertisements; You know, those cheesy “you wouldn’t steal a handbag…you wouldn’t steal a car” commercials. I ﬁnd it somewhat ironic that this video that condemns downloading pirated ﬁlm was uploaded by a regular YouTube user without any copyright from the MPAA itself. Welcome to the magical, yet controversial world of the Internet. The Stop Online Piracy Act (SOPA) and the Protect Intellectual Property Act (PIPA) were both proposed in 2011 to crack down on websites containing copyright infringement. If passed, the

legislations would require site owners to remove unauthorized content, resulting in the dreaded “C” word: censorship. On Jan. 18., Wikipedia fired an attack against SOPA and PIPA when it shut down for 24 hours. I can only imagine the look of horror on that one college student’s face as they began to write their research paper at midnight only to find the Wikipedia homepage redesigned with a black background with the text, “Imagine a world without free knowledge.” The Obama administration has denied any support for bills that call for censorship, stating that they, “reduce freedom of expression, increase cyber security risk, [and] undermine the dynamic, innovative global Internet.” Other sites at the forefront of this protest include Facebook, Twitter, Google, Reddit and eBay. While iTunes is busy charging an upwards of $1.50 for one song, clever Internet trolls find their sources of entertainment elsewhere, including torrent

sites to download albums for free or Megavideo to watch $12 movies without having to leave the house. If passed, SOPA and PIPA would put an end to these websites. Both bills are far too idealistic in their approaches, especially in this digital age. With over 250 million photos uploaded per day on Facebook, 200 million Tweets sent out per day and over 180 million websites, it would be a grueling and costly task to monitor all these posts. PIPA and SOPA supporters argue that online piracy costs the U.S. around 250 billion per year. Yet, a report filed by the Government Accountability Office, the investigative agency of Congress, reports that these findings cannot be “traced back” or “substantiated.” How can these bills move forward if they propagate unverified information? Fortunately, many proponents have withdrawn their support as a result of the overwhelming backlash. Former PIPA cosponsor Senator Roy Blunt

DISCOVERY

Life away from Earth?

With help from modern technology, scientists were able to ﬁnd a planet that can sustain life By Jared Schermer staff writer The question of whether there is another planet somewhere that contains life may come to an end. Recently, the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) discovered a planet outside of our solar system that has a temperature similar to that of Earth and has significant water content. NASA’s “Kepler Space Telescope” caught sight of the planet, known as Kepler-22b, on Monday, Dec. 5. Kepler’s lead scientist Bill Borucki claims that if Kepler-22b has a surface, then it should have a temperature that can support life. This was proven to be true, as it was discovered that the planet has a temperature of about 72 degrees Fahrenheit, which is considered fair-weathered here on Earth. Borucki later said that even without an atmosphere blanketing the planet, Kepler-22b could still be warm enough to contain liquid water on its surface. Kepler-22b also has an orbit

system very similar to Earth and the sun. Kepler scientist Natalie Batahla was enthusiastic about the planet orbiting a star that is very

Kelper space telescope

Kepler-22b’s ability to sustain any form of life is its gigantic size. Kepler-22b is about 2.4 times larger than Earth, meaning it could be a planet similar to Neptune, which is mostly gas and liquid with a rocky and unstable core.

similar to the sun. According to NASA, Kepler-22b orbits a sun-like star over a period of approximately 290 days. One doubt about with a rocky and unstable core. But there seems to be more optimism than pessimism regarding the planet’s potential sustainment of life. Batahla said at a press conference following the discovery that there was a very good chance that Kepler22b could sustain life and the possibilities are endless. Science teacher David Buncher believes the important part of NASA’s ﬁndings is what we can learn from it. “The real question is if there’s a possibility that life can and will exist there” Buncher said. “It could tell us about our past and our future.” Although much more research and experimentation will ensue regarding planet Kepler-22b, the mere thought of another planet with Earthlike qualities and the possibility of sustained life opens the door for much astronomical excitement.

wikipedia.com wikipedia.com

announced on Twitter that the bill was ﬂawed and an alternative solution must be found. The U.S. Chamber of Commerce initially advocated both legislations but announced that they were being reworked. Piracy has been and will remain a prevalent issue unless we can ﬁnd a compromise between the

music and movie industries and the public. The implementation of anti-piracy legislations that result in censorship – whether it takes form in SOPA, or PIPA, or FIFA, or YOLO or whatever it will be called in the future – compromise our cyber-integrity and serve as a hyperlink to an Orwellian society.

RELAXATION

Don’t listen and drive By Maddie Garﬁnkle science & health editor Say goodbye to counting sheep and hello to “Weightless” by Marconi Union. British band Marconi Union created a song that has been said to be so relaxing that scientists warn people not to listen to it while driving. It is an eight minute track that slows one’s breathing, reduces blood pressure, and lessens brain activity. The song contains a rhythm that starts at 60 beats per minute and slowly goes down to 50. While listening, ones heart is suppose to be in tune with that beat. Scientists played “Weightless” for 40 women and the results showed that it was more successful in helping them relax than pieces by Mozart. It also reduced overall anxiety by 65 percent. “Weightless” was 11 percent more relaxing than any other track played for the women, including songs by Enya and Coldplay. The harmonic gaps between notes have been said to be euphoric and the random chimes help initiate deeper relaxation. The women also agreed that listening to “Weightless” relaxed them more than a bubbled bath, a massage, drinking tea or taking a walk.

Top ten most r e l a x i n g songs

1) Marconi Union- Weightless 2) Airstream - Electra 3) DJ Shah - Mellomaniac (Chill Out Mix) 4) Enya - Watermark 5) Coldplay Swing

Strawberry

6) Barcelona - Please Don’t Go 7) All Saints - Pure Shores 8) Adele - Someone Like You 9) Mozart Sull’aria

Canzonetta

10) Cafe Del Mar - We Can Fly http://www.dailymail.co.uk

Science & Health

The Lightning Strike • December 2011-January 2012

Page 16

UNDERAGE DRINKING

HEALTH RISKS

rsenic found in

pple juice

By Nathalie Prieto co-sports editor New research done by Consumer Reports has shown that high levels of arsenic have been found in apple and grape juice. The organization purchased and tested 88 samples of the beverage from New York, New Jersey and Connecticut. According to the magazine, ten percent of the samples contained arsenic levels that surpass the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) standard for drinking water of 10 parts per billion PPB and 25 percent had lead levels higher than the 5 PPB limit. Apple & Eve, Great Value, Mott’s, Walgreens and Welch’s were some of the brands tested in the study. Arsenic can be found in contaminated drinking water. It increases the risk of cancer in the skin, lungs, bladder and kidney

as well as causing changes in the skin. After conducting the research, Consumer Reports has urged the FDA to reconsider their standard for arsenic in water. The Consumers Union believes that when the FDA set the limit for arsenic they did not consider the risks of skin, lung, and bladder cancer that arsenic exposure poses to the public. The initial claim of arsenic in apple juice was made by doctor Mehmet Oz in Sept. during the Dr. Oz television show. According to his research, 50 brands of apple juice contained high levels of arsenic. Senior Nga Tran is an occasional drinker of apple juice. She will no longer be found drinking the beverage as she learns of the effects it can have. “I have been drinking apple juice since I was little, but I will certainly make sure I don’t drink it anymore,” Tran said.

ENERGY DRINKS

VS.

Coffee

Which source of caffeine is most effective and least harmful? By Clarissa Buch co-copy editor Between rigorous courses and after school activities, energy boosters such as Red Bull and coffee are quick relievers to bypass sleep and get through the rest of the day. “I drink coffee during the week because I wake up at 5:30 a.m., go to school for seven hours, go to soccer practice and finally get back home at 9 p.m.,” sophomore Felix Bravo said. “I need something to keep me going to finish the piles of homework my teachers assign me every day.” According to health and science teacher Lisa Berner, caffeine is a stimulant that can cause nervous and jittery feelings, as well as headaches, irregular sleep patterns, an increased heart rate and blood pressure. “Drinking Red Bull is my only choice after school sometimes because it really helps me finish all the work I need to do,” junior Patrick Maciel said. “Once I finish volleyball

practice, I need a booster to start studying for upcoming exams in my four AP courses such as AP U.S. history.” The main ingredient in these beverages is caffeine and sugar. A cup of coffee contains about 100 milligrams of caffeine and an 8.3 ounce can of Red Bull contains 75 milligrams, more than twice the amount of caffeine in a 12 ounce can of Coca Cola. Caffeine works by blocking the effects of adenosine, a brain chemical involved in sleep. When caffeine blocks adenosine, neurons in the brain excite and pituitary glands initiate a response by releasing adrenaline which gives one a feeling of energy. On the other hand, there are healthier alternatives to energy drinks. Taking a 20 minute power nap or walk around the block, or drinking more water or eating more protein can boost ones energy levels. “Remember, there is no substitute for a goodnights sleep, which is what our body requires on a daily basis,” Berner said.

Vodka eyeballing:

new trend but a dangerous game By Gabriela Mckenzie co-sports editor

There seems to be more than one way to take vodka shots. A new trend called vodka eyeballing involves pouring vodka into the eyeball and has become popular with college students and teens. Students do this to achieve an instant ‘high’ but don’t realize the harmful side affects that are likely to occur. “This game sounds very dangerous and isn’t something I would take lightly,” senior Lauren Silk said. Silk is also the president of Students Against Destructive Decisions (SADD.) Alcohol strips away the protective layer surrounding

the eye, which stings and makes the game painful as well as destructive. After an eye layer deteriorates, it becomes vulnerable to infection and may eventually take sight away. The pastime was started by college students in England in 2010 and is making its way westward through social media and networking. Hundreds of videos of students performing this “competitive sport” are posted on youtube, where the students execute multiple ‘shots.’ Facebook

pages have also been created in support of vodka eyeballing. “This shows how some people will resort to anything to have a good time, but should really think twice about the consequences,” Silk said. “I think I can speak for most when I say, I would like to keep my vision.”

EATER.COM

CARPEL TUNNEL

The dangers of texting

By Courtney Goodstein staff editor “Hey, what’s up, how are you?” Sending short text like these seem harmless, but send those to four of your phone contacts and you will soon feel the effects of Carpel Tunnel Syndrome. Carpal Tunnel Syndrome occurs when the nerve in the wrist that supplies feeling and movement in the hand is damaged. Symptoms include numbness and

loss of feeling in your ﬁngers. While Carpal Tunnel used to be most common in people ages 4564, the highest rate of people with carpal tunnel today is teenagers 13-18 years old. “I send around 2,000 plus texts per month,” sophomore Yelisbe Schafer said. “My hand often cramps because I text so fast.” The national average of texts teens send per month has risen to 3,339, with girls sending 4,050, while males send an average of 2,539.

While carpal tunnel in teens occurs most from texting, other activities such as Instant Messenger (IM) and video games are also cause of this syndrome. New technological advances games such as Angry Birds and Fruit Ninja have teens sitting at their computers for hours, not only wasting their time but helping the nerves in their wrist deteriorate. If this trend continues the last text these teens send is going to say “Mom I need to go to the doctor.”

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Sports Page 17

The Lightning Strike • December 2011-January 2012 SPORTS CULTURE

TEBOWING: Not just a trend but a statement

By Nathalie Prieto co-sports editor In just a couple of seconds anyone can upload a picture to the web and start an online sensation. Planking, Owling, and Cone-ing are proof of this. Now Tebowing, where people photograph themselves leaning down on one knee, can be added to this list. Tebowing was inspired by professional football player for the Denver Broncos, Tim Tebow. After a Tebow fan posted a picture of him and his friends kneeling down on one knee bowing their heads, they called it Tebowing. The NFL player is recognized for his strong religious beliefs, which he repeatedly displays during and after games. Tebow used to sport black paint under his eyes with titles of Bible verses written in white. Tebowing.com features pictures of hundreds of people around the world Tebowing, from a man in the Everglades to a scuba diver underwater in Mexico. The pose has also taken sports fields by storm.

DEMETRI TERTULIEN

POSE: Senior football player Torrin Palmer demonstrates how he Tebows before games as a method to thank God.

Junior Shimron Larose is part of the wrestling team who can occasionally be seen Tebowing before matches. “Sometimes I do it by myself,” Larose said. “It gives me the strength to overcome obstacles.” Although senior Scott Ogiemwanye has never considered Tebowing, he respects its meaning. “It’s a great way of celebrating and being humble

at the same time,” Ogiemwanye said. “Sort of the way Tiger Woods pumps his fist after a foot putt.” Senior Torrin Palmer , a football player, was Tebowing before it became popular. This season Palmer kneeled to pray along with a teammate before a game against Hialeah High. Palmer Tebows in public but sees beyond the craze because he realizes the meaning behind the pose. “I’m telling God ‘thank you’ because without him I probably wouldn’t have been able to make the touchdown or the other plays,” Palmer said.

Athletes of the month VARSITY

Senior Terrance Gary has been selected as the varsity wrestling athlete of the month by coach Irving Nelfort. Gary has been wrestling since the sixth grade and is the varsity captain. He has been chosen based upon his leadership skills and total determination in a match. “My dedication and hard work has paid off,” Gary said.

NATHALIE PRIETO

Terrance Gary 12th grade

JUNIOR VARSITY Junior Johannes Parikka is a first year student at the school and a part of the junior varsity wrestling team. Parikka has shown great improvement throughout the season and continues to excel regardless of adversities. “I’m honored that my coach chose me,” Parikka said. “It’s awesome because I feel like I really achieved something in the months that I’ve been here.”

Tebowing.com

BASEBALL

Compiled by Gabriela McKenzie and Nathalie Prieto

a rl i n s g e t a a ke ove r By Dean Kaire staff writer With a new name, new ballpark, new uniforms and some big new players, the Miami Marlins are serious contenders to win something that all teams long for: the World Series Championship of Baseball. Previously known as the Florida Marlins, the team changed its name to the Miami Marlins. The name is a marketing plan for the stadium in an effort to attract more people to the games. Last season, the Marlins had the third worst attendance record in the Major League Baseball, with fewer than 20,000 fans per game. After two World Series Titles and 18 seasons at Sun Life Stadium, the Marlins are relocating to a innovative stadium in downtown Miami, built on the sight of the former Orange Bowl. After three years of construction, the new stadium will

have a retractable roof (due to Miami’s unpredictable weather) and is expected to be open by Apr. 4. On Nov. 11, the Miami Marlins unveiled their latest uniforms to the public. With fresh color schemes that includes orange, blue, and yellow throughout the uniform, the Marlins will have an entirely different look. The biggest part of the Marlins organization is their free agency. Free agency is when teams go out and sign players whose contracts have expired. Freshmen baseball player, Parker Yagman has high hopes for the Marlins players this season. “I enjoy seeing that we were once at the bottom and now reaching the top,” Yagman said. “I think that these offseason signings will contribute to making the Marlins world champions again.” After years of being criticized for not spending enough

money on the team, owner Jeffery Loira signed some of the top prospects in the market. The Marlins signed closing pitcher Heath Bell to a three year 27 million dollar deal, along with the eight year veteran from the Dominican Republic, shortstop Jose Reyes. Reyes received a 105 million dollar contract for six years. To finish the trio of free agents, the Marlins signed left handed pitcher, Mark Buehrle to a four year, 58 million dollar deal. Sophomore baseball player, Jose Serfaty, seems to be thrilled for the Marlins this year. “I am very excited for this upcoming season. I’ve always followed the Marlins and they always find a way to contend in the league with a low caliber and low budgeted team,” Serfaty said. “I can’t wait for this season since they finally put a legitimate team on the field that has the ability to go far in the playoffs.”

NATHALIE PRIETO

Johannes Parikka 11th grade

Student athletes are nominated by their coaches. If you would like to nominate an athlete please email n.prietor@gmail.com

What do you think of the new Marlins’ image? “It raises our hope that they will do better this season.” -Maria Acosta, 11th, softball

“I think it was time for them to adapt to the new times. Like other logos, their change is to adapt to what is in.” -Joan Glenny, 12th, badminton

“I don’t like all the new changes. I think the new name sounds weird, and they should have left it the way it was.” -Derick Colas, 10th, wrestling

Compiled by Gabriela McKenzie and Nathalie Prieto

Sports

The Lightning Strike • December 2011-January 2012

Page 18

ACCOMPLISHMENTS

F TBALL ATHLETES CHOSEN TO PLAY IN PRESTIGIOUS GAMES By Leigh Markowitz feature editor

OUTSTANDING ATHLETES: (Left) Senior Joshua Donath (Middle) Senior Torrin Palmer and (Right) Senior Johnny Durante.

Football players, seniors Johnnie Durante, Joshua Donath and Torrin Palmer received recognition for their everyday practice, personal commitment and perseverance. Palmer and Donath were chosen to play in the Private vs. Public All Star football game held Jan. 6 at McArthur high school. Five students were nominated to represent Krop. Nominees had to be seniors who had taken both the SAT and the ACT and held a minimum 2.5 GPA. This game provided exposure for the players since scouts were able to watch

the online recording of it the following day. “This year I knew it was my last year, so I gave it my all,” Palmer said. Although Krop lost, the boys were happy with their performance. “It was a great game that lasted until the last few seconds when the private schools team won 18 to 17 with a last minute field goal,” Donath said. On Jan. 13 at the Sun Life Stadium, Durante was a member of the Dade team in the Miami Dolphins Dade versus Broward All-Star football game. Durante has also earned the honor of First Team All Dade and First Team All State. After coaches nominated players from their own teams, other coaches from around the

county voted on who would make up the teams for the Dade versus Broward game. Durante, who was chosen out of three nominees from Krop, was pleased with the opportunity and recognition. The game, in which Durante scored a 56- yard touchdown pass, ended with a Dade victory of 36 to 26. All three boys have played for the school’s football team since their freshman year, and their coach, David Hudson, has noticed the love they have for competing on the school’s team. “They have become faster, stronger and their knowledge of the game has improved.” Hudson said. “I have also seen a lot of maturity as far as being responsible young men.” ADVERTISEMENT

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The Lightning Strike • December 2011-January 2012

Fun and Games Page 19

STRANGE SCHOLARSHIPS • Duck brand duct tape gives a $5,000 grand prize to a couple who make their prom outﬁts out of tape.

• The National Potato Council annually gives $5,000 to one high school graduate who wants to pursue the Agriculture business and “enhance the Potato Industry.” • The American Fire Sprinkler Association gives away ten $2,000 scholarships to high school students who read an essay and answer 10 questions about sprinkler safety. • If you or your parents are members to the Michigan Llama Association and you have a 2.7 GPA then you may be eligible for the $500. • A grand prize of $2,000 to further education is given by the Chick and Sophie Major Memorial Duck Calling Contest. • The New England Chapter of the National Association to Advance Fat Acceptance gives $500 annually to high school seniors who aid in the acceptance of obese people.

Compiled by Fenica Pierre

MICHAEL BEHFAR

#1 BASKETBALL CONTROVERSY #2 PRINCIPAL CHANGE #3 SCHEDULE SWITCH

#4 NO MIDTERMS OR FINALS #5 MANDATORY FLORIDA VIRTUAL SCHOOL #6 THE BREAK-IN

#7 ANGRY BIRDS TREND #8 BYE-BYE HARRY POTTER #9 SMALLER SIZED BAGELS #10 SNAP OR DIE DIES

MICHAEL BEHFAR

*Based on a survey from 90 Krop students

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KROP

Through the lens

JAVIER STORCH

Top Unpublished Photographs of 2011 1. Principal Dawn Baglos listens closely amid her ﬁrst Lightning Strike press conference held on August 25, 2011. Schedule changes, uniform policies, and overcrowded Advanced Placement classes were among the topics discussed. 2. Security Guard Anthony Brennan watches the dunk tank during Water Wednesday on October 26, 2011. Throughout the SGA event, Brennan distributed baseballs to be aimed at the dunk tank. 3. Master Chief Sosa instructs Cadet Ensign Benavidez, 12th, at the JROTC ceremony. Family and friends of JROTC students spectated the event on October 6, 2011.

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4. Coach Elizabeth Morgan prepares to be dunked at the Water Wednesday fundraising event. Other “dunkees” included Principal Dawn Baglos and Assistant Principal Francisco Garnica.

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