November/December Issue 2014

LightningStrike Taking Miami-Dade by Storm

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

December 11, 2014 • Issue 3 • Volume 17

‘Illegal’no more Michael Katz staff writer

A

merica runs on Dunkin’, but it also runs on freedom.

However, eleven million illegal immigrants have never experienced the latter. With Obama’s Nov. 20 announcement of his immigration overhaul, five million illegal immigrants will drop the “illegal” from their name.

Junior Elias Rosenfeld moved to the United States from Venezuela in 2009 and was in the process of becoming a naturalized citizen when his mother passed away from cancer. His mom was also his immigration benefactor, and her death left him with an irresponsible dad and no way of becoming a legal resident.

There was one problem – he was already in the United States.

What then? “This country does not have a system for parents who pass away,” Rosenfeld said. “I was only three months away from receiving a green card, but her passing did not allow me to receive any immi-

gration compensation.” But after interning at his immigration lawyer’s office to help pay the family’s bills, Rosenfeld applied for Obama’s Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program, the immigration policy that existed at the time, and was granted legal status for two years.

On Nov. 20, President Barack Obama amended his law to allow for the legalization, but not naturalization, of five million illegal immigrants in the United States.

Previously, the law required that those who applied to DACA be under the age of 31, and those accepted were only granted legal status for two years. Now, those accepted to the program will receive a work visa valid for the next three years, given that they have lived in the United States for over five years and have American-born or illegally residing children.

An undocumented student who asked to remain anonymous said the biggest struggle in moving to the United States was making ends meet – his parents haven’t been able to hold a stable job. He loves math, but hasn’t been able to get into any advanced classes be-

• Breaks that break spirits - page 5 • No shave ‘Movember’ - page 8 • Student DJs - page 12 • ‘Horror Story’ cast comes to life - page 15 • Holiday crossword puzzle - page 19

IMAGE COURTESY OF HUFFINGTON POST DESIGNED BY LINA ZULUAGA AND DAN SICORSKY

ILLEGAL IMMIGRATION TO THE U.S. BY THE NUMBERS

TOP COUNTRIES OF ORIGIN

11MILLION

6%

~950,000

24%

69%

MEXICO: 59% EL SALVADOR: 6% GUATEMALA: 5% HONDURAS: 3% PHILIPPINES: 3% OTHER: 24%

$10.6 billion

Undocumented immigrants are currently living in Florida

of undocumented immigrants have a high school degree or higher

5% 3% 3%

59%

Undocumented immigrants are currently living in the U.S.

was paid by undocumented immigrants in state and local taxes in 2010

15%

of undocumented immigrants have a bachelor’s degree or higher SOURCES

Center for American Progress, Institute of Taxation and Economic Policy, Floridians for Immigration Enforcement

cause of his struggle with the English language. Obama’s actions have alleviated his fear of being deported and not being able to finish his schooling in the United States. He’s been given a chance.

Even legally migrating to the United States was a grueling

process for some, including sophomore Agustin Pillado-Matheu, who thinks illegal immigration to the Unites States happens only because of how hard it is to migrate legally. “My family came here legally and it took 10 long years of applications, studying, and inter-

views with immigration officers before we received full citizenship,” he said.

Obama’s changes to the immigration policy angered some Republicans claiming that, given more time, they would have ► story continues on page 3

‘IT’S ALMOST LIKE A HUGE FAMILY’: Best Buddies held its annual Thanksgiving celebration early on Nov. 20 with guests Verne Troyer (Mini-Me from the “Austin Powers” movie series) (top row, fourth from right, cafeteria) and Gabriela Isler (Miss Universe 2013) (top row, third from left).

“I relate to [the buddies] because I know what it’s like to go through these struggles,” said Troyer, who has cartilage-hair hypoplasia dwarfism and has visited Krop before. “I see all these kids together and it’s almost like a huge family.”

Turkeys, mashed potatoes, and pastries filled five tables in an afternoon that Best Buddies President Kaila Fives (pictured left of Troyer) described as “the best way to celebrate Thanksgiving.”

FOOD COURTESY OF KAILA FIVES

More inside:

Obama’s legislation spares millions of immigrants deportation

Nutrition shouldn’t stop when the holidays start pages 10-11

The perfect gift for every occasion!

18280 W. Dixie Hwy ~ 305-933-4027!

Edible.com

News

tops Page 2

KROP’S

Senior Izak Kertznus was selected to perform for the Florida All-State Symphony Orchestra.

Seniors Lina Zuluaga and Kimberly Foreiter were selected as Posse Foundation Scholars for Mount Holyoke College.

Sophomore Tomas Korn and freshman Dylan Hopen placed 1st in Public Forum at the 2014 Falcon Invitational Tournament.

Senior Lucas Cerzosimo placed 1st in Humorous Interpretation and 2nd in Oratorical Interpretation at the 2014 Falcon Invitation Tournament. Cerzosimo also placed 1st in the George Mason University Patriot Games for poetry.

The NJROTC team placed 4th overall at an official orienteering competition. Sophomore Kevin Acks placed 2nd in the individual green course event.

Seniors Kimberly Foreiter, Daniel Guberek, Daniela Michanie, Shirley Plotnik and Dan Sicorsky have been named Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation Semifinalists.

Fourteen students who have excelled in academics and community service were selected by a committee as Krop’s nominees for the Miami Herald’s Silver Knight Awards Program. See page 12 to read three of the nominees’ stories.

Krop received Excellence ratings in the Large Group Musical, which was choreographed and directed by Naiya Campbell.

Compiled by Alec Eidelstein

TheThe Lightning Strike • September 2008 Lightning Strike • November/December 2014

From local to global:

What’s going on around the world?

CALLAWAY, FLORIDA – A woman from here was charged with perjury and false report of a crime after lying about being abducted. She claimed that three men forcefully entered her car and held her at gunpoint, but an investigation indicated her report was false.

BROWARD COUNTY, FLORIDA: Three people were killed and eight others wounded in a three-vehicle car crash when one vehicle struck and killed a black bear in a remote area of a Florida Indian reservation.

ONTARIO, CANADA: Sixty people were arrested here and will face a total of 250 charges following an investigation into sexual exploiatation of children over the Internet. The identified victims will be offered counselling and therapeutical help.

YEMEN, AFRICA: American photojournalist Luke Sommers and South African civilian Pierre Korkie were fatally shot by Al Qaeda militants when a U.S. commando reconnaissance mission to rescue them failed. As the commandos entered the complex, a convoy to rescue Korkie was on its way from South Africa, where Korkie’s family had agreed to pay a $200,000 ransom.

DHULUIYA, IRAQ: Despite ISIS’ control in the region, Ekhlas Mohammed became engaged to an Iraqi soldier living on the other side of Dhuluiya.

She, like many other Iraqis, will take a boat to her fiancé’s location due to ISIS’ destruction of the bridge linking the two regions.

GUERRERO, MEXICO: Following the disappearance of 43 college students, around 500 people violently protested in front of the state congress building here, blaming the Mexican government for not acting to find the culprits of this and other similar incidents. sources: New York Times Miami Herald

Compiled by Mila Sicorsky and Alec Eidelstein

LOCAL INCIDENT

Bomb threat scare on Ives Dairy

Mikaela Mendez spread editor On Nov. 20, after reports were made of a suspicious package in the Northeast Miami-Dade area, Virginia A. Boone Highland Oaks Elementary School (VABHOE) and Highland Oaks Middle School (HOM) were placed on lockdown.

According to Channel 7 News, the bomb squad detonated the package near the school without incident.

Junior Anthony Herrera left Krop’s campus at 1:15 p.m. for his job training at VABHOE. When he arrived at 2 p.m. he went to pick up the preschoolers he works with from Building Two, where they wait for him. As he was walking them to their P.E class, he heard the two words no student wants to hear – “code red.”

Herrera then grabbed all the preschoolers and dashed back into Building Two. His number one concern was to get the children out of harm’s way, since he was unsure of

what was taking place.

“I didn’t really know what was going on except that if it’s not a drill, then it’s bad news,” Herrera said. “I kept on telling my preschoolers ‘don’t worry everything is going to be okay,’ even though I really couldn’t have known.”

Herrera learned what was going on around the area when some wor-

a bomb squad going over to see what the package was.

To distract the preschoolers, Herrera put on the movie “Madagascar,” and it was as if they forgot there was a code red.

At HOM, Krop junior Mayan Derhy’s brother, Matan Derhy, had a different experience.

I DIDN’T REALLY KNOW WHAT WAS

GOING, ON EXCEPT THAT IF IT’S NOT A DRILL, THEN IT’S BAD NEWS.” –ANTHONY HERRERA, junior ried friends texted him asking if he was okay.

“I heard the security guard’s radio,” Herrera said. The radio informed him of precautions taken by the police to shut down the road due to a suspicious package and they had

Derhy was in his P.E. class when he heard the code red announced, and was placed into the locker room with over 100 other students. He said there was no air conditioning and the water fountains were broken, making for unberable condi-

tions.

After an hour in the locker room, the coach moved the students to the air-conditioned auditorium. A student then learned through Channel 7 News’ website about the suspicious package through the course of the lockdown.

“We didn’t accurately know what was going on in the neighborhood, and people started rumors that a bomber was in the school,” Derhy said.

Motorists reported heavy traffic in Aventura, North Miami Beach and the surrounding areas, as police blocked off Ives Dairy for approximately an hour and a half while a bomb squad inspected the suspicious package.

Local 10 News reported that police said no explosives or threats were found inside the package.

At 4:30 p.m., the school lockdowns were lifted and parents were able to pick up their children directly from the schools.

PRIVACY

Hackers snap away at user’s pictures

Ethan Curtis staff writer It looks like someone logged into your account from a device named “iPhone” on 11/24/14 at 11:29 a.m. EST. The login took place somewhere near North Miami Beach, FL, USA. This is just one email sent from Snapchat to its users telling them about suspicious logins due to the number of hackers that are infiltrating Snapchat.

Snapchat allows users to send photos and videos to people in their contact list that can

be seen instantly in one, up to ten seconds, depending on how long the user sets their timing. The photo or video disappears unless the viewer takes a screenshot.

But Snapchat has issues such as hackers getting photos from people based off of thirdparty apps.

These thirdparty apps are how hackers get photos.

Third-party apps are services that exist outside of a

parent program. They rely on the code base, the program coding that Snapchat uses, and add certain functions to the main service. The functions that the hackers add allow them to receive photos from people.

For example if you were to take a pict u r e of your driver’s license and send it to someone, the hacker sees the image and

then leaks the picture onto a secret website. This means people would then see the sender’s address, date of birth and any other information on the driver’s license.

Snapchat is attempting to fix this issue by sending out emails to its users when it notices any unusual activity with the user’s account.

“I got about five emails from Snapchat telling me to change my password because of an attempted login,” Senior Lucas Cerzosimo said.

“Once I changed it, the problem was fixed.”

News Page 3

The Lightning Strike • November/December September 2012 2014 CIVIL UNREST

Facts to know about Ferguson case Lina Zuluaga managing editor With protests reaching Miami, there’s no doubt you’ve heard of Ferguson, MO. Read on to understand the conflict that has led to more than 160 arrests, nationwide protests and criticism from North Korea.

The basics: a black, unarmed teenager was shot and killed by a white police officer.

Protesters took to the streets after Michael Brown, an unarmed 18-year-old, was shot and killed

by Ferguson Police officer Darren Wilson.

Wilson claims that Brown reached for Wilson’s gun and attacked him, so he acted in self-defense.

Meanwhile, protestors claim that black life is devalued in America, to the point where it has become acceptable for officers to unreasonably kill black people. Chants such as “Hands up.

Don’t shoot.” are used to reference the fact that Brown was unarmed, yet gunned down (12 bullets were fired, 6 of which wounded Brown).

Racial tensions in Ferguson play a major role in the conflict The unequal racial representation in Ferguson’s government and in Ferguson in general was a major cause for the protests. In Ferguson: • 67% of the population is black, but 94% of the police force is white.

• 5 of 6 councilmen are white.

• the mayor is white.

• all school board members are white.

Because black people are not in political power, they cannot have a voice in the decisions made in their community. This explains the resentment and anger that many protestors feel.

To understand the grand jury decision, first a quick crash course in law: • Prosecutors are state attorneys. They go after, or “prosecute,” the people who break the law. Robert McCulloch is the prosecutor in this case.

• Defendants are those pros-

ecuted for breaking the law. They are deemed innocent until proven guilty. Officer Darren Wilson is the defendant in this case.

• An indictment is a formal charge or accusation of a crime. The defendant must be indicted before going to trial. This decision is made by a grand jury.

• A grand jury is not the same as a trial jury. Trial juries decide on whether a defendant is guilty of a crime. Grand juries decide on whether there is an actual “charge” to indict the defendant. Basically, the grand jury decides if there is enough evidence for a trial. In a grand jury

front of a grand jury. McCulloch allowed Wilson to testify for four hours.

But indictment isn’t hard to come by. According to the Bureau of Justice Statistics, U.S. attorneys prosecuted 162,000 federal cases in 2010, the most recent year for which data is available. Grand juries declined to return an indictment in 11 of them.

Although Wilson’s case is not at the federal level, it does play into a pattern: officers are rarely charged for on-duty killings. This was uncovered in a study done by criminologist Philip Stinson from Bowling Green State University. Stinson found that in seven years, only 41 U.S. officers were charged.

Similar findings from a Daily News investigation evidenced that in 15 years, 179 people were killed by on-duty NYPD officers, yet only three of the instances led to indictment.

trial, there is no judge present, nor is there an opposing side. The prosecutor has full control over what gets presented to the grand jury.

Obama’s solution might not work President Obama addressed the civil unrest in Ferguson with a plan to make 50,000 body cameras available to police departments in the nation.

However, in a similar case of deadly force in July, Eric Garner, a black man, died while being arrested in a chokehold. The entire incident was filmed, including Garner’s last words: “I can’t breathe.”

Yet on Dec. 3, a grand jury declined to indict NYPD officer Daniel Pantaleo, who held the asthmatic Garner in a chokehold that caused Garner’s death.

Why Wilson was not charged In an article for ThinkProgress, three out of five legal experts agreed that prosecutor McCulloch worked against indictment.

The same legal experts agreed that McCulloch treated the grand jury like a trial jury and presented more evidence than necessary. If handled normally, McCulloch only needed to prove why there would be reason to indict Wilson. Instead, McCulloch provided extensive evidence that experts say gave Wilson favor in the eyes of the jury.

For example, it is extremely rare for suspects to be allowed to testify in

The Ferguson decision has garnered international attention In London, hundreds have started demonstrations in solidarity with Ferguson protestors chanting “No justice, no peace. Stop the racist police.” Other cities that have staged solidarity protests include Tokyo, Hong Kong and Delhi.

North Korea, a country known for its oppressive dictatorship, gave its two cents with a spokesman saying the Ferguson shooting is “evidence of a racist America.”

The U.S. government has received criticism from China, Egypt, Turkey and France among others.

COURTESY OF USA TODAY

NEWS BRIEFS STEPHANIA SALAVERRIA

MEALS ON WHEELS: Students stand in line outside the student parking lot to purchase a pork BBQ hamburger or a turkey bacon sandwich from the Miami-Dade food truck. These food trucks are requested by schools in the county and come once a year. Krop, however, has already requested to get a visit from them again.

Microcumpters teacher retires Teacher Luiz Izola resigned from his job as an Introduction to Microcomputers and Physical Science teacher on Monday, Nov. 10.

Izola missed a whole school year due to health problems.

While his prior leave was temporary, this resignation was unexpected both by teachers and students.

“I was shocked,” science department chair Dr. David Buncher said. “I said ‘See you Monday’ on Friday, and next thing you know, Ms. Baglos says he resigned.”

Izola stunned his students when he sent them an e-mail titled, “Good Bye and Good Luck in your future.” Describing his desire to retire, he urged them to make wise decisions and grow as kind individuals.

“Be true to yourselves,” Izola said in the e-mail. “Try not to harm anybody in life, and always search for the place that makes you the happiest.”

-Mila Sicorsky While most students are still tanning at the beach and dreading the start of the school year, Student Government Association is already hard at work planning Homecoming week.

In early August, the SGA Executive Board votes on a theme. By the time October comes around every hallway is decorated, every minute of the pep-rally is planned and students anticipate dressing thematic costumes.

IninSeptember, the Strike reported on the mayoral campaign of This year’s theme, Alice In Wonderland, was chosen for its vibrant colors and powerful mesKrop’s founding principal, Enid Weisman. sages.

“AliceOn in Wonderland important messages for young people who are searchingof for the ElectionhasDay, Weisman received almost 80stillpercent themselves and their place in high school,” said senior SGA Executive Officer Danelle Amvote to beat her opponent, Les Winston, and secure her spot as sellem. thehas next of Aventura.

SGA spentMayor nearly $10,000 to bring Alice’s Wonderland to life. According to Michelle Russell, Activities and ce, SGA Sponsor, SGA absorbs the costs are not covered by the WhileDirector in offi Weisman intends to thataddress what she $40 tickets sales, which amount to less than $9,000. considers to fibe Aventura’s major concerns: a need forforthe “While students may nd the tickets expensive, every penny of the fee goes into paying the facility, food, music, lighting, decorations for theof Homecoming and the various supreemergence of theand arts, the lack a publicdance, library, frequent plies we need for daily lunch activities and the pep-rally,” said Amsellem.

Former principal, student elected to office

flooding and hurricane education, among other issues.

Denise Landman, a former Krop student, ran for one of Aventura’s six commissioner seats at the same time that Weisman ran for Mayor. Landman won more than 60 percent of the vote to beat her opponent, Gustavo Blachman.

With Weisman, Landman and Enbar Cohen, another Krop graduate, all on Aventura’s seven-seat Commission, it seems as if Krop knows how to train its students and faculty for public office.

-Dan Sicorsky

‘IMMIGRATION’ from front page acted. Other Republicans think Obama was justified in acting alone. “Shame on us as Republicans for having a body that cannot generate a solution to an issue that’s national security, that’s cultural, that’s economic,” Senator Lindsey Graham of South Carolina said on CNN’s “State of the Union” in November.

Republicans aren’t the only ones upset by Obama’s actions.

On Dec. 3, a 17-state coalition led by Texas announced they would sue Obama over his actions. The day after, three more states joined the lawsuit.

“It’s easy to critique the system and place blame as long as you aren’t in the place of an illegal immigrant,” Rosenfeld said.

“Children who are brought here illegally should not suffer the

consequences that their parents brought about to them. These students and children are American on everything but paper.”

Through his own struggles with the system, Rosenfeld has found a passion in spreading awareness. He started United Student Immigrants, an organization that distributes information and applications for immigration and assists students in Rosenfeld’s same predicament with mastering English and applying for college scholarships.

“The immigration system is broken,” President Obama said during his speech announcing the amendments. “[Immigration] has kept us youthful, dynamic, and entrepreneurial.

It has shaped our character as a people with limitless possibilities.” By keeping our doors open, this diversity can be continued – which is exactly what Obama is trying to do.

Editorial Page 4

The Lightning Strike • November/December 2014

COLLEGE

Senior year struggles: What they don’t tell you IN MY OPINION daniela michanie micaha

opinion editor

As an underclassman for the past three years, I was made false promises by the upperclassmen.

"Senior year is a breeze," they said. As a senior for the past three months, I can promise you, "they" were mistaken.

Whoever said that senior year would be a breeze was either not applying to college, or simply lying to keep squeamish underclassmen from panicking before the year even began (a.k.a., me).

The truth is – without euphemism or exaggeration – senior year is hard. If you’re not racing against time to meet deadlines or trying your best to churn out a 37th essay about the struggles you’ve overcome, then you’re probably head over heels in homework, or at school busy with extra-curriculars.

Don’t get me wrong, my intention is not to increase dropout rates or inspire fear in the hearts

of my fellow underclassmen. In fact, I wish to do the opposite. As we reach the middle of December, there are a few things I learned while I stumbled through these first months that I want to share: Procrastination, no matter how tempting and irresistible, is almost always a mistake. While Panera has wonderful accommo-

W HOEVER SAID THAT SENIOR YEAR

WOULD BE A BREEZE WAS EITHER NOT APPLYING TO COLLEGE OR SIMPLY LYING TO KEEP SQUEAMISH UNDERCLASSMEN FROM PANICKING BEFORE THE YEAR EVEN BEGAN (A.K.A., ME) dations, unlimited coffee and great pastries, you do not want to spend eight hours holed up in one of their booths, writing essays the night before an important deadline (like I did). It is never too early to start preparing for the rest of your life (yes freshmen, I mean you). Applying to college isn’t just about

THE LIGHTNING STRIKE An NSPA All-American publication Winner of George H. Gallup Award NSPA Pacemaker Finalist An FSPA All-Florida publication Like us on Facebook Visit us online at www.lightningstrikenews.com

DAN SICORSKY, Editor-in-chief LINA ZULUAGA, Managing Editor ALEC EIDELSTEIN News Editor DANIELA MICHANIE Opinion Editor NICOLAS ALEMAN Sports Editor SHOSHANA SOMMER Entertainment Editor MIKAELA MENDEZ Spread Editor MACKENZIE DUFFY Feature Editor

bulking up a resume, although that is important. Applying to colleges requires life-changing decisions, which sneak up on you faster than you think. When it comes to the crucial time between August and December, the last thing you want to be doing is applying to a school in Chicago when you can’t stand the cold (guilty, again).

MAYAN DERHY Lifestyle Editor JACOB SINGER Copy Editor STEPHANIA SALAVERRIA Photo Editor ERICK COHEN Business Manager MARYKAY SULLIVAN Adviser SUN COAST PRINTER Printer

STAFF WRITERS CORBIN BOLIES, JUAN BORQUEZ, FRANCESA BOZZA, ETHAN CURTIS, MICHAEL KATZ, DEVIN LEE, CHELSEA LEWIS, SOPHIE MUCHNICK, SAIGE RAYMOND, MILA SICORSKY AD POLICY

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

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. 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 a computer if possible. The editor reserves the right to reject, edit and condense letters. All letters should be turned in to room 2-233.

STORY POLICY

Questions or comments about the fairness or accuracy of stories should be directed to Dan Sicorsky, Editor-in-chief, at dsicorskythestrike@gmail.com.

Trust your instincts. Yes, this is a cliche – but a vital thing to remember when you decide where you want to spend the next four years of your life. While the popular party school or Ivy League may be the dream of thousands, it does not have to be yours. When the time comes to choose where

to apply in the winter, and decide on one school in the spring, make sure your choice makes you happy.

After all, you’re the one who will have to attend in the fall.

Third, you don’t need to pay thousands of dollars for counselors, tutors, and experts to be successful. While helpful, there are many resources, free of charge or for a low cost, that can help you prepare for standardized tests, college decisions and interviews, etc. Visit websites like Niche.com to find detailed reviews of every school in the nation, and AdmitSee.com to get advice from college students who attend the school of their dreams.

Finally, and most importantly, we have to learn to accept failure. I say “we” because while I still linger in the midst of decisions, failure is inevitable. Maybe you won’t make it to Harvard or Princeton, but here is the wonderful thing about education in the United States: it’s widespread and there for the taking. All you have to do is want it bad enough, and be willing to work for it.

LETTERS Teachers need to stop parking in the student lot As the year goes on it’s becoming increasingly evident that the students are not the only ones not following the rules.

As someone who parks in the student parking lot, I have witnessed several teachers and other staff members deciding to park in students’ spots without giving it a second thought.

If students are scolded at and even threatened to get their car towed for parking in the teacher parking lot, why don’t the teachers experience the same thing when they park in our spots?

Although this might not seem like a big issue to some, it really is for me and all the other students who have had this happen to them.

It can not only cause us to be late to class because of us not knowing what to do, but it also forces us to park in another spot which at the time, might be empty, but in a matter of minutes, the student whose spot that belongs to arrives and has to park somewhere else, another person’s spot, and it just goes on from there.

All I’m saying is that they shouldn’t assume no one parks where the teachers decided to park. Instead, if parking in the back is more convenient for them, then they should go all the way in the back where no one actually parks. There is a reason for us being given (and paying for)

decals, so why are they parking in our spots?

Sincerely, Lara Sverdlik

Dear Editors of the Lightning Strike,

Every month the Lightning Strike comes out, I actually read everything. To my surprise, you can learn so much.

The one thing I learned is that we the students have voices and that they can be heard. Most of us think that our complaints go in one ear and go out the other.

But with the Lightning Strike, everything about the school is said, both good and bad. I just wanted to say thank you to every writer and editor of the Lightning Strike!

Thank you, Martika Major

Re: Uniforms do not make the school safer

I agree with Erick Cohen’s “Uniforms don’t make the school safer” article because wearing a uniform won’t prevent people from bringing weapons to school.

Also, some people can’t afford the warm, comfortable jackets for winter and those kids will be freezing during class. Being able to wear whatever outerwear will keep us warm and happy!

Sincerely, Alyssa Guzman

TESTING

Stop testing me: Exam dates should not overlap IN MY OPINION erick cohen

business manager

It’s every student’s worst nightmare: a test in all six periods. Although unlikely, it is a possibility. But having more than two tests on the same day makes it difficult for students to study. You end up concentrating on the fact that you have multiple tests instead of studying.

There are teachers like.

Michael Fass, Avonelle Lewis, Gary Felich, and Lolithia Otero who talk with each other and their students so that they don’t schedule big tests for the same day. This helps students be better prepared for exams.

It is understandable that teachers must give tests; however, if students aren’t really understanding the material, then it impedes the point of rushing to finish teaching.

Changing a due date is an easy thing to do, and being considerate to students will help them do better.

There used to be a policy that prevented departments from testing on certain days so that tests didn’t pile up on students.

MOST TEACHERS

ARE WILLING TO LISTEN, BUT IT IS UP TO STUDENTS TO INFORM THE TEACHERS.”

If students have to be flexible to excel in all six of their classes, teachers can be a little flexible too.

It can get to a point where the workload and exams are too much to handle. The only option some kids can turn to is not showing up to school at all.

Sometimes it is better to miss class and hope that the day to make up the exams is on separate days.

If a teacher knows that the majority of his or her class has an important deadline or exam already scheduled on that day, the class should voice their concern.

Most teachers are willing to listen, but it is up to students to inform the teachers.

Editorial

The Lightning Strike • November/December 2014

Page 5

CIVIC RESPONSIBILITY

To vote or not to vote: should it even be a question?

IN MY OPINION

jacob singer micaha

copy editor

If only the polling center was as popular a hangout spot as Chipotle or Starbucks.

On Nov. 4, the midterm elections took place, and Snapchat let its users take a picture with a sticker that read “I Voted,” but NBC News reported that only 13% of eligible voters under the age of 30 voted.

While most students could not vote because they were under the legal age, the voter turnout is a warn-

NOBODY WILL

EVER DEPRIVE THE AMERICAN PEOPLE OF THE RIGHT TO VOTE EXCEPT THE AMERICAN PEOPLE THEMSELVES.” –FRANKLIN DELANO ROOSEVELT, President

ing signal cautioning us to take a concern for our right to vote.

I am not old enough to vote, but if I were, I would be the first person in line at the polling center.

Yes, I’m frustrated with the fact that young people don’t care about voting, but I don’t expect readers to listen to me if I don’t present meaningful proof of voting’s power.

A hot topic in Florida during the election process was an ammendment calling for the legalization of medicinal marijuana.

But the younger generation, which is the leading group of marijuana smokers, did not vote, and the amendment did not pass.

According to OntheIssues, voting has an effect on issues including: immigration, gun control, crime, drugs, civil rights, jobs, the environment, the economy, taxes, welfare, education, health care, abortion and many others.

This means that voting has a tremendous impact on situations students will encounter every day.

We celebrated Veterans’ Day on Nov. 11, a day meant to honor those who risk their lives in order to fight for our freedom.

Yet this freedom is only valuable if the American people use it, and they use it by voting. Many people believe that with thousands or even millions of people coming to vote, their single vote is insignificant.

VOTER TURNOUT BY THE NUMBERS

1942

43.1%

THE LAST TIME THE VOTER TURNOUT WAS LOWER THAN THIS YEAR’S

$50,000

THE CASH PRIZE LOS ANGELES IS CONSIDERING GIVING TO WINNING VOTERS IN ORDER TO INCREASE VOTER TURNOUT

THE PERCENTAGE OF ELIGIBLE VOTERS WHO VOTED IN FLORIDA, 6.8% HIGHER THAN THE NATIONAL AVERAGE

719,781

NUMBER OF REGISTERED HISPANIC VOTERS IN MIAMIDADE COUNTY IN 2014 (200,000 MORE THAN THE AMOUNT OF REGISTERED WHITE AND BLACK VOTERS COMBINED)

SOURCES

1. New York Times, 2.Wall Street Journal, 3. Florida Division of Elections -Jacob Singer

However, according to the Federal Election Commission, in the 2000 presidential election, the result in Florida was decided by 537 votes of the 5,963,110 votes casted.

If less than a thousand more people showed up to vote, Florida’s electoral votes could have gone to a different candidate.

President Franklin Delano Roosevelt once said, “Nobody will ever deprive the American people of the

right to vote except the American people themselves, and the only way they could do this is by not voting.”

Roosevelt predicted our political apathy and unawareness and our unabridged freedom, that enables Americans to make their own choices, can only be disrupted by neglect and apathy. Before next election, make an effort to stay informed. Even if you still won’t be old enough to vote, become familiar

with candidates ranging from the local government to those running for president.

Understand which candidates take the same stances you do or align yourself with a political party if you share similar views with it.

The best way to stay informed is by following the news, so do yourself a favor and turn on CNN, listen to NPR, read the New York Times or, better yet, the Lightning Strike.

ACADEMICS

HOMEWORK

Breaks that break spirits From toddlers to testers: ruined teenhood IN MY OPINION sophie muchnick

staff writer

A young girl sits at her desk and reviews all the homework for the evening, English: read chapters 3-6 and annotate, Math: do worksheet and show all work, Science: complete lab report, History: Study vocabulary for tomorrow’s test. It’s going to be a long night.

This describes a typical night for most students, myself included.

No homework is unrealistic.

Homework has many benefits, such as practice and repetition. According to the Basics of Effective Learning, you have to repeat something 17 times before you have effectively learned the information. The point of homework is to help us; however, the amount of homework we get doesn’t seem to help us at all.

The United States ranks 17th in the developed world for education.

The ranks are based on international test scores, graduation rates, and the presence of higher educational seekers. However, Finland, which ranks number one in the developed world for education, has a policy unlike that of the United States. Finland doesn’t assign their students homework.

Teachers shouldn’t look at long breaks and weekends as a time to over-load us with work. We enjoy

classes more that interact with us and keep us involved, rather than give us a lot of homework to do at home.

“During the Holidays, my grandmother always comes up from Colombia and it used to be something I looked forward to,” sophomore Laura Gantiva-Mesa said. “But as I advance in high school, I start to dread these ‘breaks’ more and more because I know how much work I will have. It even takes away time from my family.”

A Duke University article that looked at 120 different studies of the links between homework and achievement found that the link was very small and almost unnoticeable.

In a similar review of 60 studies, Duke University found homework was beneficial, but assigning more than a few practice pages or chapters to read is counterproductive.

Homework will always be a necessary part of our lives, and a benefit.

We are not robots that can be programmed to remember everything we’ve ever heard or seen. A study conducted by the Basics of Effective Learning found that after 1 day, 54% of material taught was remembered; after one week, 35% of material is remembered; after two weeks, 21% of material is remembered, and after just 28 days, only 19% of information was remembered from when it was originally taught. This proves homework is helpful, but teachers must be more aware of the amount they send home.

IN MY OPINION michael katz micaha

staff writer

When I was born, I was given a blanket, and when I turned five, a Gameboy. When I turned twelve, I was given a Wii, and when I turned fifteen, an AP exam.

Something doesn’t quite add up – either we’re being babied as kids, or being forced to grow up too fast as teens. Most people would agree it’s the latter.

going fishing or having a conversation with someone – NOT by text.

We are so focused on school that it’s easy to forget how fun it is to play tag with our siblings or read a book.

“Kids need to be kids,” math department chair Maria Marino said. “They are losing the enjoyment of growing up.”

I remember being in fourth grade learning about how to write a persuasive paper and experimenting on how many drops of water can fit on the drop of a penny, but doing so for the love of learning.

WE ALLOW THESE PEOPLE TO DETERMINE

OUR LIVES AS STUDENTS WITHOUT BEING A PART OF THEM, AND WE SUFFER THE CONSEQUENCES OF UNACHIEVABLE DEADLINES, OUTDATED BENCHMARKS, AND EXCESSIVE TESTING.

“You grow up so fast when you’re still so young,” freshman Carolina Szlufman said. “Yes, I want to go to college, and yes, I want to do well in school, but stress won’t make it any easier.”

Students get so caught up in all the tests, quizzes and EOCs that we forget the beautiful simplicity of

That was my passion, and it was my teachers’ too. As I get older, I seem to hear more of ‘This is going to be on the test,’ and less of ‘You’re going to need this when you grow up.’

“Teaching has gone away from the love of learning, and pressures put on teachers for high test perfor-

mance lead to teaching for a test,” Marino said.

“What’s worse is that the people making the legislation, the people making the tests, aren’t part of the classrooms; they aren’t here. They need to come and sit in our classrooms for a month and then maybe they’ll understand,” she said.

After all, we have delegates from China coming to see our classes and our teachers, but how often do you see the people making our tests visiting our schools?

Yet these invisible test-makers are the ones that get to choose what we have to learn, what our teachers have to teach, and when they have to teach it. We allow these people to determine our lives as students without being a part of them, and we suffer the consequences of unachievable deadlines, outdated benchmarks, and excessive testing.

“Unfortunately, students feel the need to have to strain themselves academically in order to get into a good college,” AP Biology teacher Gary Feilich said. “I see students freaking out too early nowadays. Things aren’t the way they used to be.”

When taking breaks from studying, I see my nine-year-old brother sitting on the couch watching episode after episode of “Kickin’ It” on Netflix, and I think to myself: how can so much change in just six years?

Lifestyle Page 7

The Lightning Strike • November/December 2014

More than meets

The risk is high Jake Singer copy editor

Is the high really worth it?

Well, researchers at Harvard and Northwestern University don’t think so.

In a study the researchers conducted, 20 subjects ages 1825 that smoke marijuana and 20 subjects of the same ages who do not smoke had their brains scanned. The scans showed differences in brains of the marijuana smokers compared to those who did not smoke.

The brain differences are related to the decision making process, and there was a transformation in smokers’ brains in the area that determines whether something is a good or bad choice.

The use of marijuana is also associated with a decrease in IQ score and impairment in the brain’s reward system, which regulates behavioral reinforcement.

These alterations are alarming, but when analyzed in depth, are even more concerning. The changes in the brain were shown to be directly related to how much marijuana the person smoked. The

greater the amount the subject smoked, the more significant the changes were.

The rising THC content in marijuana may be what is responsible for the new discoveries.

During the 1960s and 70s the THC

THIS IS THE FIRST STUDY TO SHOW CASUAL USE OF MARIJUANA IS RELATED TO MAJOR BRAIN CHANGES.”

–HARVARD AND NORTHWESTERN UNIVERSITY RESEARCHERS

content of marijuana was between 1 and 3 percent; however, today the THC content is between 5 and 9 percent.

Dr. Hans Breiter from Northwestern University is worried about letting people under the age of 30 smoke marijuana at all.

While these findings highlight

new risks to marijuana use, it is disconcerting that the public is becoming more liberal about its consumption.

Drug policy reform is sweeping the nation, and now four states have legalized the recreational use of marijuana. In total, 23 states and the District of Columbia have legalized the use marijuana in some form, and this number is poised to rise.

Not only is the public opinion changing, but the use of marijuana by adolescents is also drastically increasing. Between 2008 and 2013, the number of students from eight, tenth, and twelfth grade who smoke have increased 1.2%, 4.2% and 3.3% respectively.

The growth in adolescent use of marijuana is worrisome, especially due to the fact that medical professionals do not believe it should be used by anyone under 30.

It may be time for students to reevaluate what they put in their bodies before they suffer serious consequences from their decisions.

Sources: governing.com, National Institute on Drug Abuse

WEIGHT-GAIN

Technology makes us fatter Mila Sicorsky staff writer

“Touchdooooown!”

You scream to your impressive 1,035 friends as you sense the excitement of a point scored right in front of your eyes. After taking a seat in the chat room and talking to a few of them, you go on to check on your pet dog. Finally, you log out of your Facebook only to realize that you have been lying on your bed for hours all alone.

Unfortunately, this is the case for many adolescents nowadays.

According to a study performed by the Kaiser Family Foundation, teenagers spend over 7.5 hours a day consuming media. Multiply this number by 365 days in a year, and you get 2,737.5 hours yearly.

Electronics have a hypnotic quality: they put their users into a trance.

The addictive aspect of television is that it encourages you to sit around and watch others interact – with no effort made on your part. On the other hand, social media makes you believe that you are connecting with others, when you are actually interacting with a computer monitor. Teens can spend hours on their devices without realizing how long they have really sat staring at the screen.

With ever increasing time spent on electronics, individuals lose time and experience from the “real world” and gain weight in return, for a variety of reasons.

Engagement in social

networking and electronics takes up a significant part of a teenager’s life. Studies found that childrens’ levels of obesity from ages 12 to 17 increase 2 percent for every hour of television watched.

Occupied with distractions, kids do not have much else to do but sit around (or lay around) and use their electronics. Increased time on social media decreases their time being active.

According to a PEW study of Internet usage, 87 percent of teenagers go online and 51 percent do this every day.

Additionally, electronics tempt their viewers with food with a weapon they call “ads.”

The difference between sitting in front of a computer monitor and a television screen is slim.

According to the Kaiser Family Foundation of Menlo Park, California, candy, cereal and fast food ads account for 72 percent of the total showed on television.

As adolescents see these taunting videos showing mouthwatering, yet unhealthy foods, they can not help but buy into them. So now not only do teenagers sit or lay down for hours, but they do so with a big box of chocolate by their side.

While you are switching channels on your television and munching on some popcorn, you are also tuning out the one between your stomach and brain.

Television serves as an unhealthy distraction for your eating habits. According to a Kaiser Family Foundation study, kids from ages 8 to 18 spend an average of four to five hours daily watching it.

So the next time you search up “Healthy Food Recipes” on your laptop or meet up with your followers for a quick game of Fantasy Football, think of the hypocrisy at play. Ditch the electronics, and take on the “real world.”

MACKENZIE DUFFY

the eye

En garde!

Student finds passion in the unique sport of fencing

by Stephania Salaverria She’s your modern day knight in shining armor. Except her armor is not shiny nor metal and her sword is a thinner and blunt foil. Still, Junior, Lily Gabay goes after her competitors sword fighting, or as we’ll call it, fencing.

Gabay was 12years-old when she was first exposed to the world of fencing and since then has grown LUNGE: Lily Gabay (left) more fond of the sport begins her sparring match in her fencing throughout the years. class. Gabay has been fencing for three “My friend was years. fencing at the time and I thought it was so weird,” she said. “Then she took me to her class and I ended up falling in love with the sport.”

Gabay has now fenced for a total of three years and has always come back to her passion, even after an injury.

“I went against a very aggressive competitor and I had one of my hands off guard instead of tucked behind my back as usual,” she said. “She then stabbed me with her foil and I shattered my finger.”

After the incident, she needed to go through physical therapy. Then a year later Gabay was back at it. Again, she eagerly put on her 5 pounds of equipment including a chest and arm protector, a body cord, jacket, pants, lamay, mask and a glove. Equipment that doesn’t come cheap, either. Together, it is all estimated to cost around three thousand dollars. Plus, the foil, which is fragile and breaks easily, has to be re-purchased for around one hundred fifty dollars.

“The sport is an investment, but worth is,” Gabay said.

The sport is demanding and requires frequent practices and daily exercise. Gabay practices at Masters Fencing Club, 3 times a week. Tuesday and Friday for three hours straight from 6-9pm, and Saturday she takes on four hours of practice from 11am-3pm. In addition to club practices, Gabay runs two miles a day when she doesn’t fence to keep in shape and practice footwork and conditioning.

“I’ve learned time-management because of fencing and how to balance it along with my school work and social life,” she said.

Her dedication to the sport has also ignited Gabay’s competitive side. Participating in many fencing competitions throughout the year, she strives to do her best.

Gabay has already won silver and bronze twice and her club as a whole won first at the Sunshine State Games.

Once the mask comes on, the knight in her comes out.

COURTESY OF LILY GABAY

HEALTH

Lifestyle

The Lightning Strike • November/December 2014

Page 8

AWARENESS

No-shave ‘Movember’

Beards to try

Students get hairy for the month of November to raise awareness for men’s health issues

November isn’t only about eating turkey or waiting in line for the next big T.V. deal. It’s also the month of raising awareness for men’s health issues such as prostate and testicular cancer.

No-shave Movember, a movement created by the American Cancer Society, encourages both men and women to let their hair grow free in an effort to raise awareness for cancer patients who lose their hair.

English teacher Joshua Joseph took a stand by participating in this movement.

by Ethan Curtis

While getting his Master’s at FIU for mental health counseling, his professor told him about the importance of spreading the word about men’s health issues. Joseph took the challenge a step further by making an account on the Movember website. The ‘M’ in Movember represents men’s health.

“It creates a fun way for people to learn about what men go through in terms of health,” Joseph said.

This includes the men of the NBC Today Show such as Matt Lauer, Al

Roker, Willie Geist, and Carson Daly, who participated in No-shave Movember.

Junior Julien Saka believes raising awareness is crucial, but argues that many teens partake in No-shave Movember without knowing the meaning behind their beard.

“Several people take this as a joke, whereas a small group understands the full meaning of this impactful event,” Sacca said. “I feel if people understood the true meaning, we would see much better results.”

But Senior Mateusz

Hartford, on the other hand, relates to the cause and hopes to raise awareness in his participation.

“I don’t do it for the fame,” Hartford said. “I do it for the cause, plus it gives me a reason not to shave.”

No-shave Movember is a nationwide movement that has raised $22.9 million toward cancer research and treating cancer patients.

If you missed your opportunity to join the ranks of the Mo Bros and Mo Sistas (titles given to those involved), you can still join by signing onto www. us.movember. com.

“Short Boxed Beard”

“Van Dyke”

“Handlebar and Chin Puff” Source: http://www.movemberrun.nl/

Mackenzie Duffy

MUSIC

Degeneration of rap through the ages IN MY OPINION staff writer

devin lee

Remember when hip-hop was real poetry?

How long has it been since you’ve heard a hip-hop song that told an actual story with amazing lyrical content? I don’t mean the lyrics in songs you hear on the radio today about money, women or exotic cars. I’m talking about “real rap”. The type of rap that makes the hair on the back of your neck stand up and sends goose bumps all throughout your body. With the type of lyrics popular in Hip-hop today, it may seem like music with meaning is gone. It may even seem that hip-hop is dead .

Hip-hop, also known as rap music, began as sub-genre of music in New York City during the

mid-1970’s. Hip-hop was played at block parties among AfricanAmerican youth residing in the Bronx. DJs at these parties would play mixed versions of two songs and solo artist, also known as MCs, would grab a microphone and rap with song’s beat. As artists rapped with the beat they would tell a story about themselves or something they had a strong opinion on and felt other people needed to hear. Some of these artists made a living off of their lyrics and signed to big name record labels. Rappers in today’s society make a living off of their lyrics too, but they’re nowhere near as talented as past MCs. Rappers in today’s hip-hop industry aren’t even lyrically diverse. Thanks to the amazing work of a beat producer and today’s technology, an artist with even the simplest lyrics are able to make hit records.

The artist first records their song, known as a first track. Then the rapper adds a second track over

1993

the first track filled with adlibs;.

Adlibs are basically the catch phrase of an artists. After this the producer is then able to go over the track and adjusts to the rapper’s voice to make the sound of his or her voice more appealing. Autotune is used in this process, a vocal effect that makes an artist’s voice sound

straight out the ocean so you know I’m your girls number fan like a dolphin.” Not only does this lyric make no sense , but the entire song and the mixtape it came off of is also horrible. However thanks to amazing producers and advanced technology the song rose to stardom.

WITH THE TYPE OF LYRICS

POPULAR IN HIP HOP TODAY, IT MAY SEEM LIKE MUSIC WITH MEANING IS GONE. IT MAY EVEN SEEM THAT HIP HOP IS DEAD.

robotic; almost like a machine is rapping instead of a person.

The rapper Soulja boy is a perfect example of this. In his hit song titled “WORK” he said “Ten chains, five rings so I’m super-duper swagged out, came

2000

Despite how bad it may seem, the industry wasn’t always filled with horrible lyrics and catchy beats found on rap songs today. When hip-hop first began to make its mark on America, its songs were filled with complex and intriguing lyrics from talented rappers.

Take Marshall Bruce Mathers III, better known by his stage name Eminem, for example.

Raised in Detroit during the early 1970s, Eminem had a very rough childhood. In one of his early songs titled “8 Mile,” Eminem said “Sometimes I just feel like, quitting I still might / Why do I put up this fight, why do I still write / Sometimes it’s hard enough just dealing with real life.” In this lyric he is talking about how rough life is and how hard it is to deal with his everyday struggles. This is what true hip-hop is all about. It’s about telling stories though your music in an interesting and intriguing way.

Hip-hop today is on the decline.

Artists no longer care about what they say in songs. As long as they have a good producer making catchy beats they will continue to please their audience and they will continue to disgrace hip-hop. Hiphop today has lost its true meaning, and unless artists realize this, rap music will truly be dead.

2007

2014

“Keep Ya’ Head Up”

“Yahhh!”

“Birthday Song”

“CoCo”

“I wonder why we take from our women why we rape our women, do we hate our women?

I think it’s time to kill for our women... be real to our women.”

“Ain’t got time for chitchat, I’m tryin’ to get this money, So get up out my face, you doodoohead dummy.”

“She got a big booty so I call her big booty Scrr..Scrr.. wrists moving, cooking, getting to it.”

“I’m in love with the coco, I got it for the low, low...

Bakin’ soda, I got bakin’ soda Bakin’ soda, I got bakin’ soda.”

2Pac, 1993

Soulja Boy, 2007

2 Chainz, 2012

O.T. Genasis, 2014

Compiled by Mayan Derhy

Lifestyle

The Lightning Strike • November/December 2014

Page 9

DEBTS

The ultimate price: senior expenses Alec Edelstein news editor

While most seniors and their parents worry about the cost for post-secondary education, they don’t realize that senior year expenses can take a downturn in their savings.

College Prep Testing The cost to take the SAT is $52.50 and the ACT is $38 or $54.50 if you want the ACT plus writing. Besides the fact that most people take the exam more than once, sending scores to each school has an additional charge of ($12-15) for each exam.

School Dances Although optional, the ticket to Krop’s homecoming dance was $40 and the price

for a prom ticket will be announced later in the school year, but usually ranges from $90-100.

more than one school so the prices can vary substantially.

Yearbook and Senior Pictures

The cost for a cap and gown is $22.

It is tradition to buy a yearbook as a senior in order to save the high school memory forever. Yearbook prices range from $50-75 depending on how early the student buys them.

The price for the most basic senior picture costs $30 and goes up in price depending on the types of photos the student wants.

If you are a high school senior who went to homecoming ($40), plans on going to prom ($90), took two ACT tests ($109), two SAT tests ($105), has applied to 6 school ($360), with each score sent to those schools ($162), bought a yearbook in advance ($50), has paid for cap and gowns ($22), and already took their yearbook picture ($30), you are looking at whopping a total cost of $968.

But wait, there’s more!

You still have to pay your obligations.

College Applications Although it varies by college, college application fees range from $30-90.

Students usually apply to

TRENDS

In a flash: new tattoos gain popularity Mackenzie Duffy feature editor Flash mobs, flash photography and now, flash tattoos.

Flash tattoos have been popping up in stores like LF, Sephora and Target since the early summer. The metallic temporary tattoos come in either gold or silver and a variety of shapes.

Flash tattoos, like other temporary tattoos, adhere to your skin with a towel saturated with water and are nontoxic because ink does not seep into skin. Unlike other nonpermanent tattoos, however, flash tattoos last longer, average of two weeks.

Due to their wearability, flash tattoos are more difficult to remove with a tissue soaked in baby oil or nail polish remover.

Each pack, which cost from 15 to 30 dollars, contains up to four templates that feature tribal designs. The more expensive packs tend to contain more elaborate patterns and designs, like elephants or feathers.

Although many believe this is a new trend, body art began hundreds of years ago,

spanning across cultures like Samoans in Hawaii. Tribal men would paint their bodies in patterns to represent their age, religion or battle history.

Egyptians mummies were tattooed with dots and dashes in a systematic pattern before burial, much like the designs featured in flash tattoo templates.

According to the original manufacturer and main supplier, FlashTats, the tattoos are supposed to model jewelry pieces, with some designs mimicking the look of bracelets, necklaces and rings.

The temporary tattoo trend resurged with the revival of 90’s grunge and the popularity of music festivals like Coachella and Ultra.

As the holidays grow closer, more stores are selling versions of the flash tattoos as a stocking stuffer.

Flash tattoos take the commitment and pain out of getting a real tattoo, but are all the more fun because they can be removed and replaced with a new design without lasers.

These temporary tattoos are the flashiest trend of the season.

- mart

Save money. Live better.

K-Mart

(305) 652 - 6808 1410 NE 215 Street Miami, FL 33179

ACT test SAT test College Application Sent Test Scores Yearbook Picture Yearbook (in advance) Homecoming Prom Cap and Gown

Graduation

x2 x2 x6 x6 x1 x1 x1 x1 x1

Total:

109.00 105.00 360.00 162.00 30.00 50.00 40.00 90.00 22.00

968.00

21 Thank you for shoping at K-Mart We hope to see you soon!

May, 2014

Credits to: Mayan Derhy

TRANSCENDENTALISM

Have you been ‘keepin it 1 hunna’?

Saige Raymond staff writer

“Sobe” (South Beach) 100 sticker. This sticker can often be spotted on students belongings, displaying the famous Deco green “Most people are on the and Fluorescent pink design, two world, not in it” environmentalist colors often nostalgic to Miami’s John Muir said. history.

The calm wind whistles Yol wants to expand this through the palm trees, the birds nature movement but realizes it harmonize song and surround takes diligence. students at lunch, only few “A lot of people can’t notice. Some sit glued to cell even pronounce the word phones keeping up with whatever Transcendentalism, but I’m on a is trending on Instagram mission, and I will complete it”, or Twitter. By focusing on said Yol. their devices, they don’t Yol posses the perseverance acknowledge the world apart to serve as an example for a new from their phones nature is breed of youth. Those who live overlooked. with intuition that enables them Transcendentalism is a to live a better life in accordance belief that insists a connection with a higher power that Yol exists outside between man and finds in nature. nature. Senior Erwin Yol insists that each Yol along with individual answers this question: his collaborator “Have you been keepin it 1 and supportive hunna?” Meaning, “Have you friends believes kept it real, embracing the reality we are in an era of the natural world?” dominated by Consider expanding your technology and consciousness so you can transcendentalism aspire to living a better life, in is necessary divine accordance with nature; because, society this is Transcendentalism. may forget about the These eager teens wish beautiful world that to respark the enlightening exists outside. flame and modernize “Take a break Transcendentalism. It is a from the tech,” Yol bizarre idea but with this says. “Liberate your movement gaining supporters mind, free yourself KEEPING IT REAL: Senior Erwin Yol holds up the logo every day, their goal of from any limitations. of his trancendentalist movement with pride. “Keeping it widespread appreciation for Sometimes it’s 1 hunna” means keeping it real and embracing the real- nature is highly attainable. your cell phone blocking your connection with nature.”

Yol seeks to raise awareness starting with today’s youth. He feels they may overlook nature’s beauty because of the focus on the next electronic.

By spotlighting Miami and the natural beauty of this city’s environment, like the beach, Yol wishes to awaken individuals distracted by technology to what they may take for granted.

One of his biggest efforts to recognize and represent Miami is the

ity of the natural world

Page 10

The Lightning Strike • November/December 2014

FOOD What

RUNS

THE

WORLD?

Christmas Meal

Page 11

The Lightning Strike • November/December 2014

•1 Glazed Christmas Ham: 136 •1 cup of Mashed potatoes: 214 •8oz Apple cider:120 •2 Candy canes: 120 •Eggnog: 223 •1 slice of Fruitcake:140 •1Gingerbreadman cookie:150 •1 slice of Apple pie: 277

Total calories: 1,380

Kwanzaa Meal •Gumbo Ya Ya: 455 •Jamaican Jerk Chicken: 271 •Caribbean-Style Black Bean and Rice Salad: 352 •Collard Greens with Red Onions and Bacon: 210 •1 serving Fried Plantains: 29 •1 serving of Coconut-Rum Pie with Pineapple: 172 •1 serving of Sweet potato soufflé: 75 •1 serving of peach cobbler:130

Total calories: 1,694

Hanukkah Meal •5 Potato latkes: 550 •1 jelly donut: 280 •2 chocolate rugelach: 194 •1 serving of noodle kugel: 220 •2 tablespoons of applesauce: 15 •4oz of brisket: 176 •1 bag of chocolate gelt: 80

Total calories: 1,515

Nutrition shouldn’t stop when the holidays start

Imagine heading home after a long soccer practice, and on your way home your stomach growls louder when you pass Wendy’s, Taco Bell and McDonalds all advertising their unbelievable deals.

According to Gallup. com a global analysis website, 76% of people in the U.S. think the food

served in fast food restaurants are “not too good” or “not good at all for you,” and more than half of Americans who eat fast food are aware the food is not the best for their health. However, with ten chicken nuggets for $1.50 the tragedy seems worth it.

“To keep up with all that happens in life, sometimes healthy meals may be sacrificed,” senior Dante Wilson said. “With my involvement in extracurricular activities, I eat fast food 5 to 6 times a week.”

So why, if people know the risks of eating fast food, do they continue to eat oil-dipped, calorie rich fast food? Because it is convenient.

Because fast food does not benefit our health, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration

(FDA) proposes all U.S. food distributors make sure consumers know exactly what they are putting in their bodies.

Because the current trend is to eat out, the FDA wants restaurants and other fast food outlets to be regulated.

The Affordable Care Act signed into law March 2010 requires the FDA to create a new label for all food establishments and even vending machines but these regulations are yet to be finalized.

The new format of nutrition labels makes the important information like calories and serving size larger. With the hard facts more visible the FDA

Life of a Smoothie t e r c e S

e Th by Shoshana Sommer

Pasan minutos y estamos ansiosos porque ya se acerca la hora de gozo. hopes consumers will make wiser choices.

In reality it pays to know what you are eating, conveniently cheap and tasty fast food has greater health effects than just increase calorie intake. The goal is more informed food decisions and these changes seek to better an unhealthy way of American living.

Fast Food, Slow Diet Teenagers are headed toward obesity because of their fast food and unhealthy

by Saige Raymond

Todos estamos llenos de alegría, porque mañana será un nuevo día.

The smoothie craze is bananas b-a-n-a-n-a-s.

Recently smoothies and fresh juices have taken over Aventura. Smoothie King, Power Smoothie, Juice and Java and Raw republic are lined up one after another on Biscayne Blvd.

The juice craze has reached an all-time high. It has gotten to the point where Juice and Java and Power Smoothie can exist in the Promenade shops yet, both can thrive.

The problem is that most teens buy into the trend without digging deeper and considering the facts. The most popular misconception about smoothies is that they will help you lose weight. While drinking a smoothie is healthier than a 12oz. soda, just because it is a smoothie does not mean you miss out on calories or sugar.

The fact is, a “slim and trim strawberry smoothie” at Smoothie King is not what the name implies. In its smallest form, 20 oz. the drink is 305 calories. Not bad.

But brace yourself, the medium (32 oz.) has 563 calories and the large (20 oz.) has a whopping 750 calories.

Generally, women who want to lose weight should consume 1200 calories a day. A medium smoothie at Smoothie King is almost half of the recommended calorie intake and a large “slim and trim strawberry smoothie” is about 60 percent.

What does this all mean? Drinking one smoothie takes the place of both breakfast and lunch.

Although the large smoothie contains 8 grams of protein and 5 grams of fiber, the “health benefits” do not coincide with the calorie intake.

On the other hand, there are smoothies that are nutritious and don’t go overboard with calories.

Green smoothies replace some of the fruits with vegetables which reduces calories and sugar, increasing the nutritional value.

If you want to be healthy add kale to your smoothies. A cup of chopped kale is only 33 calories but if flavor is a problem adding a couple of pineapple pieces will help mask the flavor.

Before you go “bananas” over this juice craze, consider the facts before jumping in and following the crowd.

Ya van a ser las 12 y el año nuevo esta por llegar, ya esta listo el año viejo que tenemos que dejar.

Ya hemos comido y llorado, porque ya casi se va el pasado.

Una nueva etapa está por llegar, a esta familia humilde que tiene todo para dar.

El muñeco con todos los recuerdos del pasado, lleno con fuego artificial cargados esta listo para explotar y el año viejo va a terminar.

2 15

by Maria Fernanda Ramirez

*This is a special contribution by the Spanish Club. The Strike will periodically feature multi-cultural writing to highlight Krop’s many cultures and races.

Feature Page 12

The Lightning Strike • November/ December 2014

The Knights in shining armor Meet the nominees: Part 1 Dan Sicorksy, editor-in-chief

From magic shows for children in hospitals to fundraisers for war-torn Ukrainian villages, this year’s Silver Knight nominees are not only talented, but diverse. Fourteen students who have excelled in academics and community service were selected as Krop’s nominees for the Miami Herald’s Silver Knight Awards program. Meet three:

Roksolana Havryliv (World Languages)

Dante Wilson (Business)

“Without business, we’d have complete chaos.”

“Watching what’s happening in Ukraine is heartbreaking.”

- Roksolana Havryliv

Watching your home country get invaded is rough – just ask Roksolana Havryliv, who watched on TV as Russia conducted a home invasion her home country, Ukraine.

Troubled that she was in Miami while her family and friends were in a warzone, Havryliv organized a toy and clothing drive for families in Ukraine. “A part of me is still in Ukraine, so everything that’s happening there is affecting me in a way,” Havryliv said, who speaks French, English and Ukrainian.

Havryliv is also president of the French Honor Society, vice president of the French Club, a Ukrainian dancer and a member of the Ukrainian Catholic Church, with whom she protested in Bayside when the conflict erupted last year.

Editor’s note: Until Silver Knights and Honorable Mentions are announced at an awards ceremony in May 2015, the Strike will feature each of the Krop nominees and their selfless community service projects.

Kimberly Foreiter (Social Sciences)

“No one deserves to not have a bed to sleep on at night.”

- Kimberly Foreiter

- Dante Wilson

The words “liability,” “owner’s equity” and “asset” put most adults to sleep, but not Dante Wilson’s finance students.

Wilson has spent more than 50 hours using educational games to teach middle school children with autism how to fill out checks, use balance sheets and manage their future finances. “I’m lending my education to them so they can gather skills that will help them in the real world and make them independent,” Wilson said.

Wilson wanted to work with children with autism following afternoons of looking after his cousin, Mia, who has autism. “It was harder for Mia to develop the skills we all do,” Wilson said. “But my whole family helped her to the point where she’s now the only student with autism in the regular classes in her school.”

Wilson is the vice president of the Class of 2015, involved with the Catholic Youth Organization, a state qualifier with the Future Business Leaders of America and responsible for cataloging all of Best Buddies’ bagel and cream cheese sales for the 2013-2014 school year.

Kimberly Foreiter and her family were at a wedding six years ago when a neighbor called to say their house was on fire. What started as a simple electrical issue meant months of crowding into motels and oneroom apartments.

Foreiter didn’t consider herself homeless at the time, but when she researched homelessness three years later, she realized she fit the description perfectly. “I didn’t have a stable place to stay,” Foreiter said. “My brother and I were sharing a couch.”

Since then, Foreiter has advocated in front of Florida legislatures for greater funding for homeless shelters and rehabilitative services, organized drives at Krop that have collected more than $10,000 worth of items for homeless families and educated students about homelessness awareness.

“People deserve second chances, they deserve to be believed in,” Foreiter, who is co-president of both Interact Service Club and Social Studies Honor Society, said. “I believe in all the kids I work with.”

HOBBIES

Sheinman, Parker find their beat in EDM Saige Raymond staff writer Among the singers and dancers at Krop, there are the Disc Jockeys, the individuals who find it more appealing to play music for the party than to party themselves.

As earphones dangle from their bobbing heads, DJs find something more in listening to music. These students listen to all the components that makes the music enjoyable so they can edit it with their own creative twist, these are student DJs. “When I listen to music from my favorite artists, I really listen to get inspired; for me music is always a learning experience,” senior Devin Parker said.

According to the DJs, seniors Devin Parker and Benji Sheinman, there’s more

that goes into being a DJ than playing with records and blasting music.

DJ-ing is an art, the application of skill and creativity is one thing, to produce and perform the music as the DJ is another, but DJs are also responsible for reading

WHAT THE

DJS DO IS MORE COMPLICATED THAN JUST BLASTING MUSIC.

their crowd and choosing what type of music is appropriate to keep the party going.

“DJ-ing is regulating a combination of multiple songs,

COURTESY OF BENJAMIN SHEINMAN

COURTESY OF DEVIN PARKER

SPINNING IT: Senior performs his set at parties and night clubs along with other DJs.

PREPARATION: Devin Parker makes music on his computer to play during his sets.

non-stop to keep the crowd alive,” Sheinman said.

These student DJs have taken their passion to after parties and South Beach night clubs, bearing their essential DJ-ing tools: speakers, turntables and FL studios(a music production software).

The performance displayed

by the DJ is also an expression of their talent, DJs are responsible for maintaining composure yet fueling the crowds energy with a mix that is sure to keep them moving.

“Maintaining optimism as well as staying cool, calm, and energetic in front of a crowd ready to enjoy themselves is one

of the most important traits of a DJ,” Sheinman said.

Sheinman and Parker share a talent they feel makes them different from the average student. Using their skill and creative process combined with an ability to read the crowd, these students found their passion for creating and performing music mixes.

What the DJs do is more complicated than just blasting music. Doing what they love requires much attention to detail but the average partier may take it as just another fun experience. In the end serving the crowd to make that event the most zealous experience fuels the passion that drives of these student DJs. “I DJ because I love it, and more than that I love pleasing people with my talent,” Sheinman said.

Feature Page 13

The Lightning Strike • November/December 2014 STUDENTS

Tale of a transfer student: Part two Erick Cohen business manager

When he first left Moscow and moved to Miami in 2012, senior Misha Nizhegorodstev believed life would be completely different from that of his home country.

There would be no more of the same Russian friends, family, food or even language. But he was surprised to find a little piece of home here in Miami.

School in Russia is much more rigorous according to Nizhegorodstev. He took English classes during his school years in Russia and has no trouble speaking, writing and reading in English. “School is the biggest difference,” Nizhegorodstev said.

In Russia we had 18 classes each

year, and there was school on Saturday too.”

Nizhegorodstev has had to leave behind friends he grew up with since the beginning of school in Russia. “Schoolmates are what I miss the most,” Nizhegorodstev said.

Although he tries his best to acclimate himself with the American lifestyle, he has found a community of Russians just like him who left to achieve the American dream. After only two years of school, he found himself immersed in a community of Russians just like him.

Nizhegorodstev frequently visits Matryoshka, a Russian market on Collins Avenue in Sunny Isles.

It is his favorite place because it brings back memories of the

STEPHANIA SALAVERRIA

MISHA: Misha Nizhegorodstev (left) sits with friends during lunch. The group walk together in between classes, all chattering in their native Russian language.

Having bonded over their culture, they spend a lot of their school time together.

traditional homemade Russian soup, borscht and other Russian delicacies.

It wasn’t too difficult for Misha to make new friends. “I

remember walking down the hallway when a friend asked me how to say ‘hello’ in Russian,” junior Vika Kuznetsova said, one of Misha’s Russian friends he met

in Miami. “When I told her it was ‘Previet’ I saw a boy’s head whip around and he excitedly asked if I was Russian too.”

Nizhegorodstev likes being able to stay connected with his Russian heritage in the United States despite feeling homesick at times. Spending time with his friends at the gym, boxing or eating a meal at McDonalds with other Russian friends brings back the fond memories of home.

Nizhegorodstev moved here with his parents to live the American dream. And for Nizhegorodstev that is owning a Mercedes, having a good life with a family and a high paying job.

Nizhegorodstev wishes to someday return to Russia when he is done with his studies.

EXTRACURRICULARS

Five interest clubs added to activies roster Chelsea Lewis staff writer

College Preparatory Club:

Worried about college? The College Preparatory Club can help ease some of your troubles.

Sponsored by CAP Advisor Robert Roddy, the club’s initial goal is to allow college to be an attainable goal for students.

Meeting every first and third Wednesdays in room 2186. Club members who join will have an opportunity to learn about SAT, PSAT, ACT tests and build their resumes. Roddy will also assist, concerns students have towards entering college.

Key Club:

Key Club is run by a community organization known as Kiwanis International and is sponsored by social studies teacher Thomas Lander. According to Lander, the club began last

Top 10

year, but didn’t succeed by not meeting expectations from the organization. Now re-established this year, the club’s goal is to help serve the community. Key Club teaches leadership skills through community service and also participates in state and international conventions. As a service project, Key Club visits Joe DiMaggio Childrens’ hospital where they conduct arts and crafts with the children. Meetings take place every first and third Thursday in the media center.

Computer Science Club:

Do you have a special interest for computer software technology? Then join Computer Science Club. Under the direction of the digital design teacher Cesar Cuenca, the club is filled with students who want to learn more about computer based technology.

Meeting every Monday in room 2186, the club helps students to

learn about Java programming and programs that help students understand the study and application of software. Students involved in the club hope to be involved computer science after high school.

Future Educator’s of America:

Future Educators of America (FEA) is run by the aid of the Florida Department of Education organization. It was established as a club last year, but was not able to remain because the club couldn’t meet the expectations of the organization. Now back in action and directed by social studies teacher Connie Higgins, this club allows students to understand what teachers go through and also aids in community service hours.

Upcoming activites include “Adopt a Teacher” where students assist teachers and a student mentor program that helps students with writing skills.

MACKENZIE DUFFY

CLICKED IN: Computer Science Club held an event on Dec. 8th called Hour of Code, where students at any level learned how to code programs.

Meetings for FEA are every first and third Monday in room 2106.

Toastmasters Club: If you’re the kind of person that struggles with speaking in front of others, this is the club for you. Sponsored by Activities Director Michelle Russell, Toastmasters aims to quell the fear of public speaking. Founder and President, Michael Katz says the idea came from his mom who

was involved in toastmasters, a youth leadership program which is based on a step by step development of communication and leadership skills. Meeting every other Wednesday in Russell’s office, the goal of the club is for those who join to become more advanced speakers.

Activities include learning how to write, giving and evaluating speeches and eventually gaining more confidence.

things you didn’t know about Mr. Joseph

1. Childhood dreams

6. Alternative Style

When he was four-years-old, Joseph wanted to be a garbage man because he thought it would be “cool to ride in the back of a garbage truck.” He was so passionate about this that he wrote a short story on the symbolism of being a garbage man.

In college, Joseph went through a “punk phase” where he bleached his hair, dyed it green, switched to red, finally grew it out and got dreadlocks with feathers.

Joseph is now getting his masters in mental health at FIU in hopes of one day opening his own psychotherapy practice and helping people.

He believes in universal Buddhism, a religion that promotes pursuing ones spiritual beliefs without interference from an authority like the government or a church.

2. Education

3. Peaceful Protestor

In 2009, Joseph participated in a strike called, “Kanye West Sucks” at a music festival in Rothbury.

4. The Big Screen

When he was 16, Joseph was a minor character, who gets killed, in a vampire movie titled, “Immortally Yours: Kiss of the Vampire.” The movie got a rating of 2.3 out of 10 from imdb.

5. Secret Partier

Joseph has been to over 50 music festivals, including Ultra for four years, Bang Fest, Bonnaroo, Langerado, Wanee and more.

7. Separation of Church and State

8. Master Collector

He has a wide collection of feathers, gemstones, minerals, pocket watches, books and live music shows from concerts he has been to.

9. Traditions

Every Monday night, Joseph eats at Tijuana Flats in memory of his college days and consistently orders his usual: a beef megajuana chimichanga loaded with kaiso, everything on it.

10. Hobbies

He goes hunting with a 35-pound bow and arrow.

Compiled Compiled by

by Mayan Mayan Dernhy Dernhy

Entertainment Page 14

:a review

MOVIES

Daniela Michanie opinion editor If you’re looking for a film with a thrilling plot, clear cut sides of good and evil, and a happy ending, Part 1 of The Hunger Games’ Mockingjay is not a good place to start.

Instead, prepare for a complex, less climactic plot that pokes at the conflicting socio-political ideologies of Panem’s rebel revolution.

The first two films introduced the country of Panem, composed of 12 subordinate districts and a tyrannical Capitol. To keep the districts passive and immobile with fear, the Capitol hosts the annual Hunger Games, a fight to the death between 24 tributes, two from each district.

Movie-goers who haven’t seen the first two films, may want to invest a couple of

The Lightning Strike • November/December 2014

hours and eight dollars on a Netflix account where they can watch “The Hunger Games” and “Catching Fire”.For fans of the saga, I will spare you the synopsis.

As the third film opens, Katniss is a shadow of her former self.

Suffering from extreme posttraumatic stress disorder and the desperate hope for Peeta’s safe return, we no longer get to watch Katniss as the valiant hero of the Districts, but as who she really is—a teenage girl who wants to save herself, her family, and the boy she thinks she loves.

There is a major shift in focus from the first two films, from the arena to the real world of the rebel’s revolution,

keeping in line with the original book. Mockingjay chronicles the efforts of both sides to win over the districts that are becoming increasingly angry at the dictatorship that

TECHNOLOGY

Events in Miami for December Francesca Bozza staff writer

has tortured them endlessly.

It’s exciting to watch Mockingjay satirize the manipulative nature of the media, as the “heroine” becomes a mere puppet of the revolution.

As she is t h r o w n into the remains of her destroyed home and hospitals packed with innocent people, the gory sights and heartbreaking settings are manipulated to fuel Katniss’ anger, and essentially, the revolution.

Even in the midst of a

costly civil war, the quirky Effie Trinket (Elizabeth Banks), the ironically comical Plutarch Heavensbee (the late Phillip Seymour Hoffman), and the recurring witticisms of Haymitch Abernathy (Woody Harrelson) manage to lighten the gloomy mood of the movie.

While their parts are small, we get to see these characters in a different light, as they become as complex as the plot.

As to keeping with the original book, Mockingjay was on the mark with major plot events and themes, most likely because of the decision to break up the final installment into two parts.

The two hours of screen time that focused on the rather anticlimatic first half of the book are loyal to Suzanne Collin’s work, and give moviegoers an experience they haven’t had yet — a deeper look into the people who stand behind the Mockingjay.

5 gifts for the holidays under $25 For the coffee addict: A flawless mug

Even with coffee, mornings are hard to gets through. This mug, however, is sure to start someones morning off right with a smile.

The “I woke up like this mug” sells for $10 at Urban Outfitters

Santa’s Enchanted Forest

It’s hard to feel the Christmas Spirit in the Sunshine State, but Christmas trees, elf’s, Santa, and thousands of winter wonderland lights, Santa’s Enchanted Forest makes it possible. Santa’s offers 100 rides, live shows, pony rides, and a petting zoo that are all decorated for the holiday. Food tents provide traditional carnival treats such as funnel cake, fried ores, cheese fries and international cuisines from Italy and Greece. Attractions like Cats of the World Tiger show, Cirque Equinox, Avalanche, and Crazy Mouse bring a mouth dropping and heart racing crowd. Open from October 30, 2014 until January 4, 2014, Santa’s runs from 5 p.m. to midnight every day of the week at Tropical Park. Price range: $20-55.

Jingle Ball

The Jingle Ball is the season’s biggest annual music event.

Y100’s Jingle Ball will jingle the bells with top stars such as Ariana Grande, Meghan Trainor, Calvin Harris, who will come together on Sunday, December 21, at 7:30 p.m. EST at the BB&T Center.

Music from country, to pop, to house music will be performed throughout the event. It is part of the national iHeartRadio Jingle Ball Tour to give back to the com-

For the napping friend: Footie pajamas

We all have that friend who naps like a cat. Get them footie pajamas to keep them cozy during the colder months ahead. Target has a great selection from cheetah and leopard print to penguins and monkeys, for only $25.

For the book-worm: A hardcover classic

COURTESY OF JOSHUA GOTTLIEB

MUSIC FESTIVAL: On Dec. 16 and 17 Life in color will attract people from all over the wrold. DJ’s such Kascade and Diploid as are expected to be there.

munity. According to the Ryan Seacrest Foundation, for every ticket, one dollar will be donated to a non-profit organization.

“Ball Drop” and Fireworks at Bayfront Park

The Miami’s tradition of the famous “Ball Drop” returns on midnight, December 31. Fireworks on the beach will welcome the New Year with free live entertainment. As the countdown begins, the Big Orange rises 400 feet up the side of the Intercontinental Hotel and reaches the top at the stroke of midnight. Join the holiday season celebration at Bayfront Park 301 N. Biscayne Blvd., Miami, FL 33132.

Life In Color Festival

It’s time to make the holidays a bit more colorful. On December 26th and 27th, “The World’s Largest Paint Party” is taking over Sun Life Stadium. Borgore, Adventure Club, Carnage, Diplo, and other top DJ’s will show off their talent as music fans will face the mind blowing, body shaking, and heart racing experience. Fire shows, contortionists, silt walkers, and soaring aerial acts, with music from the world’s biggest DJ’s will lead up to the infamous paint blast. In 2012, SFX Entertainment acquired Life in Color as “the biggest movement in dance music to date.”

Snuggling up with a book before bed has to be one of the best ways to rewind and relax. Not just any book either, but a favorite classic. Nothing makes a book special more than it being from a loved one. Try getting them a beautifully illustrated hardcover version of their favorite classic novel. Barnes and Noble sells these beauties for $18.

For the (sadistic) humorous friend: Cards Against Humanity

When knock-knock jokes don’t cut it, Cards Against Humanity is sure to leave at least a smirk on your friends face, or leave them in a state of shock. The card game, described as despicable and awkward, is the adult equivalent to the popular childs game, Apples-toApples. Simple to play and great to take out during social gatherings. Buy them on their website for $25.

For the shoe game fanatic: Socks

When you don’t know your way around the shoe game industry, leave your friend to it and get them an accompanying gift. Socks.

Sock game is also popular and Target has a great wacky selection, all priced at $4. And if you want something warmer, Bath and Body Works sells shea-infused fuzzy socks for $8.50. Your feet not only stay snug but moisturized.

-Stephania Salaverria

Entertainment

The Lightning Strike • November/December 2014

Page 15

SERIES

‘Horror Story’ casts carries story of its own Mikaela Mendez spread editor Welcome to the freak show! A place where everybody is welcome, no matter who you are, what you look like or where you come from.

On season four of “American Horror Story: Freak Show,” all the actors portray circus ‘freaks.’ By using makeup, characters are altered to appear ‘freak’-like, but it is difficult to distinguish between the actors acting as freaks, and the freaks acting as themselves. Even though the word ‘freaks’ has a negative connotation, the producers admire those without normal physical characteristics that give season four its twist.

But who are these ‘freaks?’

Legless Suzi (Rose Siggens) had her legs amputated at an early age following a fetal disorder that affects the lower spinal area. Mat Frazer has a disease called phocomelia syndrome, which makes his limbs appear seal-like and explains his not-so-cleverly-picked name on the show – Paul the Illustrated Seal.

Meep (Ben Woolf) is an unordinary pre-school teacher considering he’s 4 feet 2 inches and was born with pi-

tuitary dwarfism, a disease that causes slow growth. Ma Petit’s (Jyoti Kisange Amge’s) height is 23 inches, making her the shortest person in the world. Amazon Eve (Erika Ervin) is a transgender woman who is proud of her identity, and auditioned for a role that was intended to be played by a man.

When Siggens (plays Legless Suzi) was two years old, her mother chose to have her daughter’s legs amputated because in the 1970s the medical treatment for physically handicapped body parts was to remove them. Yet, Siggens is the only person with her condition to give birth to two children with no complications. On the show, her character is a homeless, fearful woman who has to figure out how to live without legs.

Frazer’s (plays Paul the Illustrated Seal) mother took the medication thalidomide to reduce morning sickness while pregnant, but it eventually caused him to develop phocomelia syndrome. Frazer is an aspiring actor who does not let his disease get in the way of his spotlight.

Woolf (plays Meep) went through chemotherapy as a child,

causing his bones to close at an early age. Aside from his acting as Meep, he is a preschool teacher who says he loves children because they look beyond people’s faults. He says they see everybody as equals no matter how different they may appear.

Amge (plays Ma Petit) is 23 inches 11 pounds. She may seem small, but her attitude is five times – if not more – her size. Although Ma Petit is constantly carried on the show, Amge does not like being picked up “like a baby” and only gives certain people privilege to carry her. She loves makeup, and gets angry when people touch her hair. Even though she is the shortest person in the world, her dreams are big. She aspires to be a Hollywood actress, and her role as Ma Petit, is helping her dreams become reality.

Ervin (plays Amazon Eve) revealed her transgender identity in 2004 to her parents, who then proceeded to kick her out of the house. Her character, Amazon Eve, was supposed to be played by a man, but Ervin stunned the director and got the part. She says she loves herself the way she is, and does not let negative comments affect her self-esteem.

M j D nuts: SWEET TOOTH

Trending

gourmet donut shop popular among students and faculty

Stephania Salaverria photo editor If Willy Wonka made a donut factory, Mojo Donuts would be it.

This small, family-owned coffee house specializes in creative, out-of-the-box looking and tasting gourmet donus. Mojos offers a product no one else can. Krispy Kreme and Dunkin’ Doughnuts have nothing on them, especially their maple bacon doughnut.

“It’s kind of weird, but it’s one of those things you have to try,” Krista Latessa, head coach of girls’ softball, said. “They taste just like maple bacon pancakes.”

The maple-drizzled and bacon-sprinkled donut is a customer favorite. Other choices include bacon, red Velvet, PB&J, guava and cheese, key lime, and smores.

Mojo Donuts’ originality doesn’t stop. Walking into the shop or opening a box of their heart-, log-, bow- and regular-shaped doughnuts will have you questioning all other donuts in existence. The vibrant gummy worms, pink coconut flakes, and rainbow fruity pebbles will

MICHAEL KATZ

BOX OF WONDERS: A box of a dozen donuts from Mojo Donuts includes traditional Mojo flavors. Mojo Doughnuts has become poular because it offers a uniue variety of flavors often catered to the time of year, such as pink-ribboned donut to recognize Breast Cancer Awarenesss Month.

make you hesitant to bite into them. But once you do, you’ll devour the rest.

Proof that the donuts are well-liked is the 40-minute car ride that Aventura-residing students are willing to drive back and forth. In order to have fresh donuts for all of their customers, Mojo’s only sells a limited number of them per day. They open up at 6 a.m. to make fresh donuts and close when the donuts are sold out. If you don’t go early

enough, favorites are likely to be gone, and if you arrive after noon, you run the risk that they’ve already closed for the day.

“Although it is far, it’s worth the ride, especially for a special occasion,” junior Kassidy Klein said.

Much of Mojo’s popularity is due to the fact that they create limited edition pieces each day and consistently run out. But, don’t worry – there is always the next day.

t

A look into the real life diseases portrayed on ‘American Horror Story’

Bette and Dot

(pictured below) are conjoined twins. One out of every 200,000 twin births internationally result in conjoined twins.

Desiree Dupree is

featured as an intersex individual. One in 1,500 to 2,000 people are born intersex, an abnormal condition characterized by an intermediate between male and female gender.

Bette and Dot

Ethel Darling is a

bearded lady. Eight percent of women have hirsutism or excessive hair growth.

Compiled by Mila Sicorsky

Ma Petit

Ma Petit (pictured

above) is the shortest woman in the world.

One in every 15,000 to 40,000 births result in achondroplasia or dwarfism.

A fortunate event: Netflix adapts book series to TV Corbin Bolies co-online editor After ten years of hating how the movie was so different from the books, you’ll finally get your resolution: Netflix is adapting Lemony Snicket’s “A Series of Unfortunate Events” as a television series. Yes, it’s happening.

For those who don’t know, “A Series of Unfortunate Events” tells the story of Violet, Klaus and Sunny Baudelaire and how they go through a number of unfortunate events to discover the truth about their parents’ death. While doing this, they must escape the clutches of their evil uncle, Count Olaf, who wants custody over the kids in order to obtain their inheritance.

In a press release, Netflix’s VP of Original Content Cindy Holland explained how, because the series is so unique with its humor, appeal and relatability, it’s the perfect fit for Netflix’s catalog.

“We can’t wait to bring it to life,” Holland said.

Lemony Snicket, in true Snicket fashion, said from an undisclosed location, “I can’t believe it. After years of providing top-quality entertainment on demand, Netflix is risking its reputation and its success by associating itself with my dismaying and upsetting books.”

Mr. Snicket’s involvement would be limited, due to his “emotional distress,” with his affairs being handled by Daniel Handler. Handler, of course, is the man behind the pseudonym, “Lemony Snicket.”

A movie adaptation of the first three books was released in 2004, starring Jim Carrey as the villainous Count. There’s been no confirmation as to whether or not he will reprise the role in the television series, though it is expected that he will not.

The film was known as being unfaithful to the source material, so it’ll be interesting to see whether or not the series retains some of the morbid, dark humor of the books. Needless to say, such announcement looks to be a “fortunate” payoff for fans of the books.

Sports Page 16

The Lightning Strike • November/December 2014

NUTRITION

Behind the Scenes: Juan Cruz Borquez co-online editor

As a student, swimmer, and water polo player I have a hard time getting through the day with the schools lunch in my system and even worse, practicing after school hours.

To all my students and athletes out there struggling during and after school, trying to find something to munch on so you can trick your stomach into thinking you got enough food to push through the day;,this one is for you.

Getting through the day on an empty stomach affects students in every factor ranging from emotional to physica l wear, just like the Snicker’s commercials portray.

You are a totally different

person when hunger takes over the body.

Food Services Manager III, Diane Williams and her crew of ten, work hard to supply the 2,000 plus students with the nutrients they need to prevent hunger.

The problem is by law; they are forced to follow a cycle of menus organized

by Miami Dade County on a four-week schedule, based on caloric intake targeted to the high school age group.

In our case, the menus allow us for a standard of 750800 calories per serving.

Williams and her crew do their best to prepare the food, follow the standards and try to satisfy everyone, but they don’t seem to get much appreciation for their hard labor.

It may seem the lunch

The truth behind school lunches

ladies are doing a bad job, but in reality they are like top of the line actresses following a terrible script.

So don’t throw tomatoes at them. They are not to blame here; they are only the messengers.

The average person requires a caloric intake of about 1500 to 2000 calories per day.

However, for an athlete the caloric demand increases from 2000 to 3500 calories, a 1500 increase, depending on the practice or workout intensity.

The problem with the lunch is not the food, but rather the portion that gives it its negative criticism.

“It’s not enough to hold you down till three o’clock,” Isiah Lysius, wrestling captain and track member said.

Therefore students have to find an alternative to getting sufficient calories to last them the whole day.

“Take one of our fresh fruits and eat it later in the day,” Williams suggested as the best solution to cure the hunger situation.

I use this solution because it works.

Before water polo practice, I sometimes eat a quick snack such as an apple or banana that will get the job done and make that hunger feeling go away.

Other alternatives could be snacks that are high on protein such as protein bars or shakes.

Even if you are not an athlete this might be a great way to stay away from feeling hungry and get through the day.

Fall Sports

Roundup

Football: Capturing wins over the Alonzo Tracey Mourning Sharks and the Hialeah Thoroughbreds, the Lightning achieved a 2-10 record, an improvement from last years’ 1-11 record.

HEALTHY ALTERNATIVES FOR A HUNGRY STOMACH

Pistachios 1 ounce of pistachios is 49 nuts—the most nuts per serving and low in calories with 160.

Peanut Butter and Jelly Sandwich Peanut butter on whole grain bread has high energy, has heart healthy fat and is high in protein.

Trail Mix

Almonds

The key to this healthy snack is keeping the portions in check at 150 calories per serving.

1 ounce, or 23 almonds, provides 170 calories with 6 g’s of protein and 7.4 mg Vitamin E. Compiled by Juan Cruz Borquez

Volleyball: Led by senior Fabiana Ramirez and head coach Tania Torres, the Lightning qualified for the district tournament while achieving a 6-8 record.

PREVIEW

Boys’ soccer off to fast start Francesca Bozza staff writer United and motivated, the boys’ soccer team gets ready for another year of success.

Coach Tomas Gonzalez kept the same techniques, but this year the chemistry and new faces combined to lead the team to an undefeated start.

“The strategies are the same, but we have more quality team members,” senior captain Joseph Grobman said. “Now we can work more efficiently.”

Practice is every day of the week from three to five o’clock. In practice, the boys do scrimming, figure eights, and crossing drills.

Usually when acquiring new players it takes a while for them to gel, but the team has mixed in as fast as they make goals. New members, seniors Arytom Sotnik, Nehuen Kiassos, and Ramon Johnson among others, have

COURTESY OF FOXMAR

NEW FACES: Senior Nehuen Kiassos controls the ball during a 6-1 victory over Hialeah on December 3rd, the Lightnings’ second win over the Thoroughbreds this season. New athletes like Kiassos have helped the team get off to a 7-1-2 start.

created an atmosphere where the players excel.

“Nehuen and Arytom are two of our leading scorers and Ramon makes a tremendous effort to keep the other team from scoring,” senior Dan Cohen said.

The boys attend practice five days a week, rain or shine. The team set up a

group chat to ensure the attendance of the players, and to provide constructive criticism after games.

“If we see a teammate or ourselves making a mistake, we refer back to the group in order to make us stronger and fix the mistake for the next game,” Kiassos said.

The boys are a team

outside of school as well.

“We all joke around together in the group, on our WhatsApp group and we go to Chipotle together sometimes after practice,” Cohen.

Ten games into the season, the boys have a 7-1-2 record with key wins over the West Broward Bobcats and the Hialeah Thoroughbreds.

“For three years, each year we do our best to get better,” Gonzalez said. “This year, the team is very united and is getting better with such effort.”

Recent losses to the Palmetto Black Panthers and the Bobcats have slowed the teams’ fast start to the season but with several games still left in the season, the team can get back on track and finish strong.

“It is truly a constant team effort from pre-season to every practice, to every game, and that effort is results,” Cohen said.

Golf: Freshman Emily Palmeiro and junior Leeland Bien led the golf team this season, qualifying for the regional tournament while dominating district play.

Swimming: Scoring first place finishes at the district tournament, juniors Amber Lubie and Che Davis led the Lightning swim team this season, highlighted by Davis’ state tournament appearance.

Compiled by Nicholas Aleman

Sports

tops

The Lightning Strike • November/December 2014

Page 17

FEATURE

KROP’S SPORTS

Lightning bowls opponents over

you go,” Guise said. “If you get a strike, then you have to get at least five pins, so every pins counts.”

Guise accredits her performance to the support of both her mother and her personal coach.

Practicing for an hour two times a week, she says that her mom never stopped pushing her to do her best and her coach helped her improve her technique.

“I used to throw a straight ball, but he taught me how to hook it,” Guise said.

She says that learning how to curve a ball, or

“hook” a ball, was the better technique to learn.

“When I bowl with a straight ball, I’m aiming directly for the pins,” Guise said “With a curve ball it goes straight down the lane but at the last minute it curves into the pins allowing more strikes.

She also feels that practicing on her own is beneficial and has helped her to truly become aware of her potential.

“Over the years, once I realized that I was doing good, I felt excited and wanted to practice every

day.” Guise said. “It was an amazing feeling to realize that I was a good bowler and could only get better.”

She placed second at Districts, qualifying for states where she placed in the top 150 out of 400 participants across the state.

Bowling may be viewed as a person just rolling a ball down a lane but to Guise, it’s more than that.

“Bowling is a big mind game, people don’t realize that the sport is actually hard,” she said. “It takes skill, confidence, and extreme focus.”

FEATURE

New era begins for boys’ hoops Nicholas Aleman sports editor Inheriting a team coming off of three consecutive losing seasons may seem like jumping aboard a sinking ship, but to boys’ basketball head coach Christopher Garcia, it’s the chance of a lifetime.

“There is no place I’d rather be,” he said. “It really is a dream job.”

Coaching multiple sports, ranging from track and field to wrestling to football, Garcia has an extensive resume that spans over twenty years and three different schools.

Garcia joined the school’s staff as a security specialist in 1998 while simultaneously taking over the varsity football team, leading them to a 9-3 record and a state semifinals appearance.

In 1999, he won his first state championship as an assistant coach of the Pace varsity boys’ basketball team.

Garcia made history four years later as an assistant coach at Pace becoming the first coach in Florida high school sports’ history to win a football and basketball state cham-

pionship during the same school season.

That same year, he joined the coaching staff at Florida Memorial University, where he coached basketball for ten seasons, highlighted by a conference championship in 2007, Garcia’s fourth championship.

“You get out of life what you

Garcia said. “I thought it was my time to show what I learned over the years.” But, he was not selected.

The following year Garcia applied for the position for a second time and, again, was deferred.

“I wasn’t too concerned because I knew my time would come,” he said.

With the departure of head

I WANT TO WIN BUT ALSO FOR

THEM TO BE BETTER MEN; I’M GETTING THEM READY FOR THEIR LIFE, NOT JUST COLLEGE BASKETBALL.” –CHRISTOPHER GARCIA, head coach put in,” Garcia said. “If you work hard there is nowhere to go but up.”

After the departure of head coach Marcos “Shaky” Rodriguez in 2011, Garcia applied for the head coach position.

“I’ve been making people win as an assistant coach for a while,”

coach Steven Groothuis, Garcia applied for the position for the third time in three years.

The third try was the charm.

In May, Garcia was appointed head coach of the boys’ basketball team, his first basketball head coaching position.

“I want to win but also for them to be better men,” he said. “I’m getting them ready for their life, not just college basketball.”

Garcia made his presence felt immediately, leading two summer league teams filled with Lightning players to a championship and a playoff berth in the other.

The fiery head coach is backed by his aggressive defensive approach that has the team limiting opponents to an average of 54 per game, seven games into the season.

“Without my assistant coaches, we wouldn’t be half the team we are,” he said. “We’ve come a long way and we still have a lot of work to do.”

The Lightning has started the season strong, capturing wins over the Hialeah Gardens Gladiators and the Miami Springs Hawks, the latter coming at home after trailing by 11 at the half.

The five wins this season has already surpassed the combined wins over the past two seasons.

“I’m very passionate about what I do,” he said. “No one puts more pressure to win on me, than me.”

Junior Che Davis placed 1st in the 100 meter freestyle at Districts.

Senior Ryan Jackson led the district in tackles for most of the regular season.

Krop’s Athletic Program is currently ranked 7th in the state for class 8A schools for academic GPA. Junior Spencer Tate placed 14th in a field of 292 runners in the Junior Orange Bowl cross country race that features runners from high schools all over South Florida.

Compiled by Nicholas Aleman

Answers to Holiday Crossword ON PAGE 19

Across

NOT A MOMENT TO SPARE: The girls’ bowling team poses for a group picture with head coach Jason Sullivan.

(Left to right) Captain Brianni Castillo, Lucyana Panti, Sabrina Dillon, Katlyn Guise, and Shaihan Brown led the team to a 4th place finish at the district tournament this season.

1. Kislev 4. Chimney 7. Dreidel 9. Rudolph 10. Christmas 11. Grinch 14. MayaAngelou 16. Oil 17. Milk 18. AdamSandler 20. Lights 21. Candle 23. Gelt 24. CentralPark 26. Hallmark 27. Truce

Bowling wasn’t initially what she had a talent for, but it became something she fell in love with.

Along with focus, there’s one thing that Freshman Kaitlyn Guise never forgets before a game , which is that every pin counts.

She says that even if you mess up on your last frame, you have to make sure the next one is better.

“In a game there are ten frames. So there’s ten times

Junior Amber Lubie placed 1st in the 100 meter backstroke at Districts.

Down

Chelsea Lewis staff writer

The Girls’ volleyball team qualified for Districts.

2. Seven 3. Eight 4. California 5. Joyous 6. Kinara 8. CharlesDickens 12. Menorah 13. Latkes 15. WillFerrell 19. Sleigh 22. Black 24. Carrot 25. Grandma

Freshman bowler qualifies for state tournament

Girls Golf is ranked 1st in the state in academic GPA for a team at 3.909.

JOIN YOUR

TO JOIN THE PTSA FILL OUT A MEMBERSHIP APPLICATION Applications can be found in the main office or on kropseniorhigh.org in the PTSA tab.

The Lightning Strike • November/December 2014

Fun & Games Page 19

Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukkah, and _____ Kwanzaa!:

Holiday Crossword Puzzle

*Answers to crossword puzzle can be found on bottom of page 17 in Sports section ADVERTISEMENTS

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