September Issue 2011

THE

lightningstr ke CLASS

Dr. Michael M. Krop Sr. High • 1410 Countyline Road • Miami, Florida 33179 POLICY A new policy which was revoked at the start of the school year affects the number of students allowed in each classroom.

SIZE

AMENDMENT

By Sara Alvarez staff writer Junior Julian Covos sits in the back of his Advanced Placement (AP) chemistry class of 39 students and wonders if he will receive enough individual attention to pass the AP exam in May. “This overcrowding definitely affects our learning,” Covos said.

“Individual students don’t receive the same amount of attention they need, and it is a lot easier to get lost.”

In 2010, Florida voters passed a law which limits core class sizes to 25 students per class. This year however, the Class Size Amendment does not apply to students who take AP classes or other non-core classes.

Republican Florida Governor Rick Scott does not consider AP courses to be core classes although they may be required for graduation.

As a result of this decision, AP

September 22, 2011 • Issue 1 • Volume 14

JAVIER STORCH

CLASS IN SESSION: Social Studies teacher Ellen Elias lectures her fouth period, AP macroeconomics.There are 36 students in the class, 11 more than last year when the class size amendment affected AP as well as core classes.

classes have become significantly overcrowded, putting students’ learning at a disadvantage.

More than 2.1 billion

dollars have been cut from state education since 2008, according to the State Education Department.

“The entire AP program has been compromised,” English teacher Michael Kelly said.

Kelly believes that once a

class passes 25 students, student comprehension is significantly reduced because of the short adolescent attention span.

With fewer students, greater retention occurs.

He also believes that a student who is not selfmotivated will need guidance that a teacher with over 25 students cannot provide.

According to a study 2008 study done in Columbia University Teachers College, reducing class size can improve students’ academic performance.

Apart from the lack of individual attention, another problem is the space necessary to hold all these students although counselor have worked overtime trying to solve this problem through class leveling.

“I used to be in a very small room that was the size of an office, but they moved me to a larger classroom so that solved the problem,” social studies teacher Michelle Mar said.

Principal Dawn Baglos also sees the need for smaller class sizes.

“I recognize that high schoolers are still developing and they need the follow up,” Baglos said. “Because we want our kids to be successful, we are doing what we can.”

SPORTS

School fined for basketball violation

By Eric Eidelstein editor-in-chief

On Wednesday, September 7th the Florida High School Athletic Association (FHSAA) fined Krop over $53,000 for falsifying the eligibility documents of several basketball players for the 2010-2011 season.

According to the Miami

Herald, FHSAA executive director Roger Dearing said that the fine was originally around $313,000 but was reduced due to the cooperation of Krop and Miami-Dade County Public Schools.

This fine came with a three-year probation period for the basketball team who will not be able to participate in the state playoffs.

In addition to the basketball

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team’s ineligibility, the entire athletic department has been put on a one-year probation period.

The FHSAA is monitoring the school for standard violations such as not meeting grade requirements and forging documents (See http://www. fhsaa.org for more information on violations).

As a result of the incident, Basketball Coach Shakey

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Rodriguez resigned.

After receiving FHSAA’s ruling, Principal Dawn Baglos filed an appeal.

Although Baglos could not reveal the contents of the appeal, she said a decision will be made

by Nov. in Gainesville.

“Our school has garnered more than 80 million dollars in scholarships over ten years,” Baglos said. “This should not

be overshadowed by $53,000.”

Senior Jennifer Thelusma, who is involved in several school clubs thinks the FHSAA fine is inappropriate considering the many cuts being made in the public school system.

“They are punishing the students,” Thelusma said. “In light of Class Size Amendment and budget cuts, this large fine will only hurt the student population.”

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:

.. .

Contagion Film Review More Inside:

Teenager smoking remains popular, page 5

THE REVIVAL

Remembering September 11, page 12

PAGE 7

Heat exposure dangerous to athletes, page 17

News

tops Page 2

KROP’S

The following students are a part of the National Merit Semi Finalist Scholarship Competition: Seniors Ryan Breslow, Alejandro A. Krauskopf, Andrea Plat, and Marc Vernick Krop alumni, Natalia Sulca, was invited to sing with Puerto Rican singer, guitarist and composer, Jose Felicianoin Miami in November. He is known for many international hits including the 1970 holiday single “Feliz Navidad.”

The following students from the debate team won the Braddock Invitational Speech and debate Tournament on Sept. 10: 1st Place Congress: Ryan Wolis 2nd Place DUO: Brett Curtis and Brittany Milo 4th Place Congress: Carlos Debruzos Top Novice in Congress: Daniel Guberek Top Novice in Mixed Extemp: Parker Yagman Krop alumni Samson Rawls, Darryn Ferguson, Jed Brown, and Devonte Miller from Miami Killian Senior High School made the cut for the premier season of X Factor.

They are apart of a group named “Special Guest.”

Compiled by Ariana Rogers

The Lightning • September2008 2011 The Lightning Strike •Strike September

From local to global:

What’s going on around the world?

Tripoli, Libya: A military site containing what appears to be radioactive material has been uncovered by revolutionary forces near the southern Libyan city of Sabha.

Athens: Greeks marched against tax hikes and pension cuts with a new round of strikes, stranding thousands of tourists after public transport workers and air traffic controllers walked off the job.

India: In some Indian villages, girls are sent into prostitution by their families - a tradition that began as religious obligation but is now continued for money.

Tunis, Tunisia: The Tunisian army destroyed seven fourwheel drive vehicles in a remote desert battle near the border with Algeria.

United Nations: Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas will submit a letter to the United Nations Security Council requesting formal UN recognition of Palestinian statehood.

Muscat: Two Omani journalists have appealed against a court decision sentencing them to prison for publishing an article on alleged corruption in the justice ministry

Khartoum: Hundreds of people marched in the east of Sudan in protest at the deaths of two people during clashes with police.

A lgiers, Algeria : Algeria’s culture minister says 400 books were banned from the country’s international book fair.

A ntarctica: The amount of Arctic sea ice has melted to a historic low, with the area of land covered by ice at the smallest level since scientists began observing it with satellites in 1972.

Washington: The recent highprofile attacks by insurgents in Afghanistan represent a shift in strategy by the Taliban, who have ceded control of territory in much of the country.

Meaux, France: A French court fined two Muslim women for wearing full-face veils in public, the first time a judge has imposed punishment under a “burqa ban” law that has become a legal and cultural battleground across Europe.

Rome: Migrants clashed with police and residents on the tiny Italian island of Lampedusa prompting Italy to announce they all would be transferred and repatriated within 48 hours. sources: CNN.com MSNBC.com

Compiled by Ariana Rogers

THEME

Week dedicated to making a difference

JAVIER STORCH

HEALTHY VENDING: Seniors Joel Palacios and Gabrielle Bodzin donate blood to Community Blood Centers of Florida, Inc. during make a difference week. Each year, they collect over 250,000 pints of blood for hospital and kidney dialysis patients.

By Blake Mars staff writer “It’s not anyone can make a difference, it’s everyone can

make a difference,” activities director Michelle Russell said.

These simple words were the inspiration for the inaugural Make a Difference Week, which

was held Sept. 12-16.

The idea that “everyone can make a difference” is at the forefront of Principal Dawn Baglos’ vision for a better school. The administration and Student Government Association (SGA) decided to bring this theme to the student body through Make a Difference Week.

In the past our school has held activities geared towards charity and student involvement.

This year, the administration chose to combine these events into one week to focus on helping those in need.  85 pints of blood were

donated by students in the blood drive for the Community Blood Centers of Florida, Inc.  Honor societies, service clubs, equal access groups, performing groups, and government associations received more sign-ups during the club fair than in past years. Members of SGA and Crime Educators gave classroom presentations that stressed student ownership of their school.  Non-perishable food items with pop tops were collected until the end of September in the school-wide food drive for Food for the Poor, Inc.

EDUCATION

Freshmen take required online classes

By Sharon Sabbagh managing editor

Ninth graders transitioning into high school must now also prepare to dive into the world of virtual education.

The legislature has voted to make virtual school integral to public education in Florida and require high school students to take at least one online class in order to graduate.

“Online classes are prevalent at universities, so it’s good to get the mechanics of studying and working online.” CAP adviser Robert Roddysaid.

However, he recognizes that the quality of learning online may not measure up to that of traditional classrooms.

Principal Dawn Baglos

shares Roddy’s concern.

“I don’t know if anything can ever replace the face to face relationship with a teacher in a classroom,” Baglos said.

The legislature’s decision to make online classes mandatory is expected to alleviate some of the state’s financial pressure.

The state spends 23 percent less on a student in virtual school than a student in a physical classroom.

Senior Prateek Sachdeva has taken five classes online since the start of high school including.

AP Computer Science, AP American History, Geometry, Physics and AP Microeconomics. He prefers virtual classrooms to the traditional classrooms.

“I was able to set my own pace, but if I knew the material I could always skip ahead,” Sachdeva said. “I get that online

class is not for everyone, but this can be a good experience for ninth graders. They will take the one class, see if they like it, and then decide if they want to take any more.”

Online education has been on the increase even before it was made mandatory.

The National Center for Education Statistics reports a 65 percent increase in enrollment for virtual classes from 2002 to 2005. They estimate that about half of high school courses will be taken online by 2019.

Sophmore Mathew Isenburg took Physical Eduction online last year, but would not recommend it to anyone.

“They will never replace physical class with an online class,” Isenburg said. “Online teachers can’t see the class.

Talking to a teacher through a phone call is not the same as to

a teacher who is sitting in the room.”

Freshman Peyton Freedman is not bothered by the new graduation requirements, but has still not decided which class she will take online.

“I heard from some that these classes are going to be easy, others say that it is a lot of work,” Freedman said. “I don’t actually know what to expect, but I am expecting it to be an experience.”

JAVIER STORCH

VIRTUAL LEARNING: Senior Torry Wiliams works on his online class in Patricia Smith’s fourth period, using Florida Virtual School website. It is a nationally recognized e-Learning model that provides courses for grades K-12.

News Page 3

The Lightning Strike • September 2011

News Briefs School invests in new NUTRITION

Battle of the classes

The Point War, a competition between the classes of 2012, 2013, 2014, and 2015 is a new attempt to encourage school spirit while simultaneously raising money for the school.

Activities Director and sponsor of the Class of 2014 Michelle Russell began the Point Wars with the help of SGA this school year. Each class will partake in many competitions throughout the school year such as cheer competitions at pep rallies, the United Way Penny Drive, and pre-game sales for football games. This year’s home opener sold 717 tickets for a total of $2,868. The winner of each event will receive 100 points, second place 75 followed by 25 points to the third place. The sophomores are in the lead of the war followed by 2012, 2013, and finally 2015.

When asked if the program will last for years to come, Russell replied that it depends on its success. She did however say that she is pleased with the progress thus far.

vending machines

-Tyler Sloman

FUND RAISER

Agenda’s sold for new school year

JAVIER STORCH

HEALTHY VENDING: Students line up during second lunch to buy from the only vending machine that features healthy foods like grapes and salad. The prices vary from student to student depending on whether students pay full price, reduced or free lunch.

By Sebastian Elejalde opinion editor

JAVIER STORCH

SENIOR SALES: The senior class sells agendas at a press conference held by Principal Dawn Baglos over the summer. This is the second consecutive year that agendas have been sold by the class of 2012.

VIRTUAL

New academy provides alternative learning

By Dean Kaire staff writer iPrep is a program in which students receive laptop computers and participate in a webenhanced curriculum, created by Superintendent Alberto Carvalho.

The iPrep academy opened last year in downtown Miami with fiftyfive students and expanded to Felix Varela and Killian High Schools this school year. iPrep offers traditional high school activities such as sports and clubs, but allows students to take part in business internships and to create their own community service projects. The program allows students to enroll in regular, online, honors and Advanced Placement courses.

To be eligible for the iPrep program, students must have at least a 2.5 un-weighted grade point average, ten or less absences and tardies, and passing scores on the both the math and reading FCAT in the tenth grade. iPrep classrooms feature a crosscurricular structure, where one part of the classroom learns one subject while the other part of the classroom

learns another. A teleconferencing room equipped with microphones and speakers is used for teachers and administrators to interact with students.

Assistant principal of Killian High School, Madeleine Luis says students enrolled in the iPrep program can earn up to sixty credits from Florida International University by the time they graduate.

Assistant principal of Felix Varela High School John Galardi also added about the iPrep program, “We’re not just trying to build academic, but also community leaders.”

Sophomore Ross Piper believes iPrep worsens the learning experience for students.

“Classes like chemistry and physical education should be taught traditionally because a web-based curriculum such as iPrep would decrease the intuitiveness of those classes.” Piper said.

Math teacher Roseanne Mishan believes that the iPrep program dramatically reduces the need for live teaching and believes that since most students are visual learners, a web-based curriculum would be detrimental.

Since April, the initiation of healthier and faster alternatives to cafeteria food has arrived in the form of one Star Food Healthy Express vending machine.

Krop is among the first of 28 high schools and eight middle schools in Miami-Dade County expected to implement the machines by the end of this school year.

The new food source was the result of a 15 million dollar grant given to the county health department by the Community Putting Prevention to Work program. This program is part of the “Let’s Move” initiative started

by First Lady Michelle Obama, which aims to prevent childhood obesity.

The machine holds 90 meals at

a time, and can be accessed only by students’ ID number and birth date. The food selection consists of a popular yogurt parfait, as well as a rosemary chicken salad, a chef salad, and a Montego Bay wrap. They are priced at around three dollars each and are paid for through a PayPal account.

Food Service manager Diane Williams approves of the healthier alternatives to average school lunch.

“We have a nationwide obesity problem, so we have to address it, starting in the schools,” Williams said.

Despite the proactive actions the school has taken, feelings about the vending machine are mixed.

“The fact that the school has an alternative option is good; it’s going to reduce school lunch lines,” senior Josh Rich said. “Compared to school food, though, it’s just

as bland.”

Chef instructor James Lubin and his class will plant a fresh herb garden in Nov. which will provide fresh vegetation to the cafeteria, support local farmers, and teach students the benefit of preparing their own, better-quality meals.

Moreover, the First Lady’s approach to teenage obesity is also acknowledged and supported by people like local Certified Health Counselor Michelle Shimon, who is a proponent of healthy meal preparation.

“Many teenagers are victims of the corporations that create these “fake foods,” Shimon said, regarding the amount of preservatives, trans-fat, and sugar contained in many school lunches.

“Healthy vending machines are a good start, and I envision a day when the school cafeterias offer real living foods to our children.”

Editorial Page 4

The Lightning Strike • September 2011

INJURY

Backpacks carry potential risk IN MY OPINION michael behfar

co-spread editor

Barely into the school year, students already feel the effects of the new bell schedule. Senior Samantha Ribas says the weight of her backpack is so bothersome that she has noticed back pains at night.

I have to bring a geometry textbook once a week, in addition to four binders and a binder that three classes share. Add in two notebooks and my bag is so heavy that I feel uncomfortable just during the walk to the next class.

Book bags are supposed to be worn on two shoulders, which poses new threats in the hallways. Students strut around with mountainous bags strapped on their backs that swing back and forth, bumping everyone in the area.

Also, others are tempted to unzip a student’s bag and help themselves to its contents.

According to a study that tracked

records of emergency room check-ins, heavy book bags are the leading cause of back problems among students.

Based on advice from doctors and chiropractors, carrying 10 percent of your body weight in books is the recommended maximum. For example, a student weighing 120 pounds should not carry a book bag that weighs over twelve pounds. This is hard to achieve when a single textbook is at least three pounds.

In my experience, most teachers require an individual binder for their classes.

However, students taking AP classes have multiple teachers who each demand a folder or binder. This added weight serves as unnecessary strain on a person’s back.

In high school, students bring textbooks to study. In middle school, six periods were fine because classes did not require them to carry textbooks.

While there is no one solution to heavy bags, students should lighten them by removing as much excess weight as possible, or should purchase a roller book bag if ridicule is not a problem.

A student weighing 120 pounds should not carry a book bag that weighs over twelve pounds.

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Eric eIdelstein, Editor-in-Chief SHARON SABBAGH, Managing Editor

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Letters

Dress code may be ill-advised

I hate this new dress code. I hate having to alter my way of dressing.

There is absolutely nothing wrong with tank tops, or off the shoulder shirts. I like to come to school comfortable.

I’m aware of school being a business place, but it’s a business place for the administrators. We as students come to school to learn, nothing more, nothing less. The way we choose to dress doesn’t have any interference with what we learn in the classroom.

The majority of our lives are spent in school, five days out the week, approximately eight hours a day. Therefore, if I’m comfortable in a tank top, I think not being allowed to wear it is ludicrous.

Believe it or not, there are classy teenagers who don’t wear their shorts up their butt and their tank tops below their nipples, including myself. We should be granted the opportunity to wear that if and when we please.

By the way, when a skirt or shorts reach your knee, they are NO longer shorts or a skirt, so the fact that the administrators tell us that’s the lowest we can wear it doesn’t make any sense.

Basically, I feel like this new dress code is way out of control and it is getting crazier as the year progresses, and it’s only the third week. Soon we’ll only be allowed to wear long pants and long sleeve shirts.

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 disk if possible. The editors reserve the right to reject, edit and condense letters. All letters should be turned in to room 2-233.

Brytney T. Howell Grade 10

Art departments face crippling budget cuts I’ve been part of the music magnet program at school for three years now.

We try to focus on achieving excellent ranks in music every year and we’ve been thriving for success the past years

and scoring considerably high ratings in both district and state competitions, even with the tackling budget cuts.

As the years progress, the budget cuts in all arts departments seem to be getting worse and worse.

For instance, our first period class, instead of being just orchestra or just jazz ensemble, is now both. Nicknamed “Jorchestra” we don’t get really anything done in such a little amount of time not only because of the change in schedule, but because the process of setting up and tuning is quite lengthy.

Personally, I am concerned as to what exactly will happen to the art, music and performing arts programs as the years progress, given that the conditions keep deteriorating.

Caro Gutierrez Grade 11

New schedule makes life more stressful I think one thing I can definitely do without is this ridiculous scheduling. I’m not much of a math person so I don’t really care if it’s going to help the math department so much. Personally, I think it makes homework and testing more annoying. More homework is due the next day and it makes my after school life so dull and busy. I find myself sleeping less because I study until a later time due to being assigned additional homework for a class that I normally wouldn’t see the next day with block scheduling. It’s as if I’m being thrust into a cycle of constant studying and sleep deprivation.

Claudio Zelaya Grade 12

If you are interested in writing a letter, send it to selejalde@yahoo. com.

Opinion Page 5

The Lightning Strike • September 2011 POLITICS

Obama facing loss of popularity

AC

considerable jump from 17 percent in 2009.

Nevertheless, he still deserves a chance to do what he has promised. We have to remember the $10.626 trillion in debt former president George Bush left behind, plus two underfunded wars and

decimated revenue from tax brakes for the wealthy.

Despite the bad press Obama receives for involvement in the national debt crisis, people still believe that Democrats are more qualified to deal with most of the country’s issues. As expressed in the AP-GfK Poll, when it comes to management of the federal budget deficit, taxes and creation of jobs, a higher percentage of the public trusts the Democrats over the Republicans to get the job done.

This seems to show that Obama’s competition in the upcoming election may lie within his own party rather than the Republicans themselves.

Whether or not Obama will win back the support he needs to win the presidential election in 2012 is unknown. But this much is true: the voters feel that if Obama is not doing the job they elected him to do they will find someone who will.

GN

Barack Obama won the 2008 presidential election by 52 percent of the popular vote. Supporters were enthused by talk of health care, immigration reform, and end to the Iraq War, all alluded to in his campaign slogan, “Vote for Change.”

But issues centered on the national debt crisis may be the undoing of popular support for the 2012 election.

According to an Sept.

Rasmussen Reports Daily Presidential Tracking Poll, 52 percent of people disapprove of Obama’s performance as president. The public’s main concern revolves around the economy, federal budget deficit and unemployment, categories in which they feel Obama underperforms.

He promised change, yet most of his supporters are frustrated that it is not coming

I

TION BY CHRISTIAN D TR A OU

news editor

ariana rogers

population ages 18 and up.

It states that 49 percent no longer believe Obama is a strong leader, a

Seniors speak out about Obama

US LL

IN MY OPINION

fast enough.

As a result, the public shows signs of buying into the media’s negative outlook of Obama. One commercial refers to “taking away Obama’s blank check,” which depicts him as an irresponsible lackey incapable of handling the country’s money. It even hints that the only reason the women in the commercial voted for Obama was because “he spoke so beautifully.”

The truth of the matter is, the situation is going to get worse before it gets better.

So how much leeway should we give Obama for prevention of a complete meltdown of the economy? Not much. Granted, it is a hard job, but he knew this when he entered office. What the public really wants to see is a president with backbone take a firm stand for the issues he supports. This includes his proposal to make the wealthy pay higher taxes to help lower the national debt. This belief is reflected in the most recent AP-GfK Poll, a telephone survey of the American general

SPEAK OUT

IN MY OPINION sebastian elejalde

opinion editor

Q: What are

your thoughts on President Obama’s progress?

“I think Obama care is a great idea…”

Kamille Way, Grade 12

Delayed decisions worsen President’s credibility IN MY OPINION taylor silver

entertainment editor

In 2008, a vibrant and hopeful presidential candidate named Barack Obama promised winds of change that would blow through the nation.

Articulate and forceful, he delivered countless speeches as the nation became swept up in the gust of his rhetoric Unfortunately, the only puff of wind present was the one that would blow a tumbleweed of stagnation and disappointment.

Fast-forward three years.

During his Sept. 8 speech to address the unemployment

issue, we saw an aged, graying Obama pleading for the approval of his plan.

His proposed American Jobs Act would cut payroll taxes, give businesses incentives to hire veterans and the unemployed, and improve schools and infrastructure.

In reference to government spending, he claimed it would be cut by about one trillion over the next decade.

He was quick to point out the bipartisan nature of the Act, noting that both Republicans and Democrats are in favor of settling the unemployment issues at hand.

The speech sounded desperate and urgent as he repeated the phrase “Pass

this bill” 17 times. But, it has taken him nearly three years to formally address what is arguably the nation’s largest issue.

Obama also announced changes for the contentious No Child Left Behind Act (NCLB).

Established by former President Bush in 2002, it is based on the belief that schools must be held to a high standard in order to have successful students.

Under the stringent nature of NCLB, many schools are unable to meet standardized testing requirements.

The Obama administration will grant waivers to schools who will not meet the Act’s 2014 deadline of 100 percent academic proficiency.

Instead, all students must leave high school “college or career ready.”

Obama’s popularity has rapidly declined, as evidenced by his 42 percent approval rating on the Gallup daily tracking poll.

Perhaps our disappointment in Obama lies in our high, misplaced expectations for a “changed” America – one devoid of unemployment, inflation, and a defective education system.

Both calls for change will play a determining factor in the future of our nation and have been a long time coming.

Only in Nov. 2012 will we be able to tell if slow and steady truly does win the race.

“If Congress was behind Obama he would be able to make more progress.”

Stefany Babain, Grade 12

“Obama should be reelected solely because he is a great, smart man and a great president. With a little more time he can have a promising future, but America won’t reelect him because they don’t see the fact that one person can’t change eight years of mistakes.”

Dafna Zacharin, Grade 12

ADDICTION

Teenage smoking habits stop declining IN MY OPINION sebastian elejalde

opinion editor

In the last decade, advertisements against tobacco companies have intensified their criticism of the drug. Despite this, the Center for Disease Control reported in 2010 that the decline of teenage smokers has stagnated, due to recent budget cuts for Florida’s anti-smoking programs and the unavailability of nicotine replacement products to teenagers.

At least 4.5 million

adolescents in the United States between the ages of 12 and 17 smoke cigarettes, and the overwhelming majority of them will become chain smokers.

Since the late ‘90s, the “Truth” campaign, which started in Florida and spread across the country, was one of the most effective ad campaigns to raise awareness about the dangers of smoking. Their commercials depicted elderly smokers with tracheotomies and other ailments singing on a parade float, shocking the citizens in the video as much as the viewers at home.

In recent years, ad

campaigns like “Truth” have suffered budget cuts and are being replaced by today’s commercials showing surgeries and people who have lost loved ones to tobacco. But these commercials do more to scare the viewers than to educate them.

Another reason Florida’s smoking rates have stabilized is because health policy guidelines prevent minors from purchasing nicotine replacement therapy.

Products like Nicorette chewing gum and the Nicoderm CQ patch deliver a regular dose of the drug into the body, making it easier to quit than cigarettes.

However, the labels on such products are approved by the Food and Drug Administration and prohibit the selling of the products to minors. Ironically, it is easier for a teenager to buy a pack of cigarettes than it is to buy a product that will help relieve them of their addiction.

Florida needs to dissuade those who are addicted to cigarettes by raising the tax on each pack above the national average and distributing nicotine replacement therapy to teens. Without this necessary attention to young smokers, our generation will continue this deadly habit.

“He has failed as a leader to advance his own goals and ideals, and has been too submissive.”

Gilbert Placeres, Grade 12

“Obama is completely oblivious to the needs of the people. His budget and job plans are not sustainable and will prove futile.”

Jonathan Lacs, Grade 12

The Lightning Strike • September 2011

Entertainment Page 7

Students scream for LOCAL MUSIC

COURTESY OF GREEN ROOM

EAR CANDY: ICECREAM members (from left to right): Tomas Kennedy, Alexander Lashley, Justin Anthony Rivers, and Roy Neil Hunter play a show at Green Room in Ft. Lauderdale. The band’s fulllength album, Good, will be released in November and includes 12 new songs.

IN MY OPINION christian dougnac

co-spread editor

ICECREAM is no ordinary band. As the tall, sickly-looking Justin Anthony Rivers jumped into the crowd at Churchill’s Pub in Little Haiti with microphone in hand, a series of firecrackers began to explode on the dance floor like hail on a car windshield. As Rivers belted out the final lyrics to the penultimate song for the night, the crowd watched, wide-eyed and shocked in horror.

“This song is about how cannibalism could be used as a cure for world hunger,” Rivers shouted sarcastically at his audience. The crowd liked what they heard as the

band burst back into action and played a new song, “Zebra Meat.”

When former Krop students Joel Gutman, Tomas Kennedy, Roy Neil Hunter, Justin Anthony Rivers, plus Alexander Lashley from Allison Academy, decided to form ICECREAM in the summer of 2009, they first had to find a way to get in the same room together.

“In the beginning, Rivers would sometimes disappear for a couple of days, sometimes for weeks, doing odd jobs across Miami. He had to make enough money to keep a roof over his head,” Kennedy said.

After Rivers’ first band Le Fantom, a psychedelic two piece, fell apart during the recording of their second album, he was suddenly left without a band, but eager to make music.

When Kennedy reunited with

Rivers after the demise of his high school band, Sinister Smith, the two began to write songs together to create a fresh new sound.

“It’s Doom pop,” Gutman, the drummer and former staff writer for the Lightning Strike, said.

Hunter, who plays the MPC2000, a sampling pad used to manipulate sound, agrees. He interjects space-like sounds and eerie moans to accompany the hard-hitting riffs produced by Kennedy and Lashley on guitar and bass, respectively. Rivers guides the listener on their musical adventure and sings about the follies of society.

In the title song of their second release, At Least You’re Not Hitler, Rivers talks about how unhappy the common man is dealing with his day to day

life, only to remind him, “But whatever man, at least you’re not Hitler.” ICECREAM’s unique touch can be heard in the chorus as Rivers switches to a falsetto vocal: I’m O.K. / You’re O.K./ Christmas is getting married to birthdays / They’re going to give birth to the ultimate holiday.

“The devil eats ICECREAM for breakfast,” senior Leilani Bruce said, who considers herself an ICECREAM veteran and has attended numerous shows since the band’s birth.

“The interaction of the band and crowd brings all the madness of the music to life.”

But, aside from all the theatrics, what is ICECREAM at their core?

Over the course of just three years, ICECREAM has gone on

three northeastern tours, the last of which was to promote their exclusive vinyl split with local band Animal Tropical entitled Just Between Us Girls. They have released three EPs and are now working on their first fulllength album, Good.

Kennedy uses the album art of the new vinyl split to provide a visual explanation: “Imagine you have just fought your way out of hell and you finally see an exit to the bright neon lights and the swaying palm trees of Miami, when suddenly, a ravenous pit bull lunges in front of the doorway. You’ve come this far and of course you’re not willing to give up now; your only option is to battle the great beast and be victorious. That’s ICECREAM.”

MOVIE REVIEW

CONTAGI IN MY OPINION eric eidelstein

editor-in-chief

When I was in 5th grade, my science teacher showed us a ridiculous movie on the ten different ways our world will come to an end. A deadly epidemic was number two on the list.

After watching Contagion, a brilliant but horrific film

by Steven Soderbergh (Erin Brockovich, Ocean’s 11, 12

N: NOTHING SPREADS LIKE FEAR and 13), an infectious virus does not seem as far-fetched as it did in 5th grade.

The film starts with Beth Emhoff (Gwyneth Paltrow), a suburban woman from Minneapolis who returns from a business trip in Hong Kong and abruptly dies. Her husband, Mitch Emhoff (Matt Damon), is shocked by her sudden death and as he is mourning, his stepson also dies.

Soderbergh skillfully uses Beth’s death as a catalyst to introduce the no-mercy virus that begins to wipe out the planet.

From two infected people, to 4, 16… the disease swiftly causes the Center for Disease Control

(CDC) to seek an inoculation against the disease.

Minneapolis is not the only town in America, or the world, affected by the sickness that later becomes known as MEV1. A World Health Organization (WHO) representative (Marion Cotillard) is sent to Hong Kong to try to uncover where and how Beth was infected.

Meanwhile, back in the United States, the CDC is working tirelessly to discover the nature of the virus.

As the world approaches an apocalyptic end, a hero emerges.

His name is Alan Krumwiede (Jude Law), a journalist in San Francisco who convinces

the public he has found a remedy for the virus. Through a video blog, he convinces the world that he has successfully recovered from MEV-1.

What intrigued me most about the film was not the progression of the virus, but the way the public handled imminent death.

People eventually resorted to animalistic behavior as they looted supermarkets, shops, and their neighbors’ homes.

I also wondered about the role traffic jams played in the film. As the virus spread in Chicago, for example, people desperately tried to drive out of town. The question that immediately came to my mind

was— how can you escape a disease that kills all?

Fortunately for the sciencechallenged audience, Soderbergh does not go into the biomechanics of the disease. Contagion is a drama that hypothesizes a possible termination of humanity.

There are brief scenes that show the bloody results to MEV-1, but the film really scores by how it accurately portrays a murderous virus and the public’s reaction to it. In retrospect, the documentary I saw in 5th grade was not so absurd. In a world of pollution, terrorism and poverty, a lethal virus has become as probable as any other factor that can end our world.

Entertainment Food trucks roll into Miami Page 8

The Lightning Strike • Septmber 2011

FINE DINING

IN MY OPINION blake mars

staff writer

By day, photography teacher Mirtha Funcia inspires students to see life through a still camera.

At night, however, she can be seen through the windows of the Ms. Cheezious food truck, serving up specialty grilled cheese sandwiches Although it began on the streets of Los Angeles and New York, the food truck craze has now appeared in Miami and captured the appetites of Floridians. With more than fifty different trucks on the streets of South Florida, Food Truck Invasion round-ups are being held almost every night.

“The neat thing about the food trucks is you go to a spot and there’s thirty different trucks serving thirty different kinds of

food, which you wouldn’t get at a normal restaurant,” Funcia said.

The foods served are as diverse as Miami’s population. From fish tacos, custom churros, and grilled cheese, to barbeque, sushi, and deep-fried-anything else, the trucks satisfy any taste buds.

The variety of trucks and foods differs every night, depending on the location of the round-up. While trucks such as The Rolling Stove and Miso Hungry might be very popular one night, the Flying Saucer and Gastro Pod may take their spot the next.

BLAKE MARS

TRENDS

Cone-ing, and owling, and planking! Oh my!

Cone-ing, owling, and planking are new activities performed by teens as pranks. Their popularity has gone viral and spread through social networking sites such as Facebook and Twitter.

By Danielle Mackson staff writer Cone-ing. Owling. Planking.

These may sound like strenuous yoga positions, but they are really the latest trends for teenagers.

Australian Alki Stevens became a YouTube sensation in the summer of 2011 when he introduced cone-ing to the online world.

The video shows Stevens pulling up to a drive-thru window where he grabs his soft serve not by the cone, but by the ice cream itself, thus creating the phenomenon known as coneing. Five days after he uploaded the video, he reached 600,000 views. Now, it is currently at more than 2.5 million views and there are countless YouTube videos and Facebook groups in which teens share their

experiences and reactions.

“I have coned at every McDonalds and Burger King in and around Aventura,” junior Alex Beiner said. “The whole point is to get a good reaction from the person who is giving you the ice cream.”

Another cone-ing video depicts a man receiving his dessert as he asks the fast-food attendant “do you believe in unicorns?” He then takes his ice cream, puts it on his head with the cone facing up, and screams “BELIEVE!” This cone-ing variation is called “the unicone.”

If you have come across someone lying rigid in an unusual location, do not be alarmed; they are most likely planking.

Planking is another craze that involves lying face down in a public place, arms to the side, and toes pointing to the ground.

Actor and comedian Tom Green invented planking in 1994.

Back then it was called the “Dead Guy” because, as Green describes, someone would lie there in the prone position as if they’ve died or passed out. Over time, it became known as planking.

“I once planked in a busy restaurant, but I did not hold the position for long because I got embarrassed,” senior Zack Scheck said. It was fun while it lasted, though.”

Although planking seems like a simple, safe activity, people are not always aware of its consequences. An Australian man planked on a balcony, fell off, and died while his friend captured the photo.

Young people across the nation have also taken up owling. This prank consists of crouching like an owl in an unusual place with eyes locked in a faraway gaze. No one is exactly sure how this trend got started, but, similar to cone-ing and planking, there are YouTube videos and Facebook groups devoted to owling. Celebrities like Demi Lovato, Hilary Duff and Joe Jonas have also been spotted engaging in the growing fad.

“It seems ridiculous at first, but when I tried it, it was hilarious,” freshman Gabriel Zisman said. I owled on a bench in the mall and just watched peoples’ strange reactions to my position as they walked by. It was so worth it.”

“You can get Mexican food at one truck and Chinese at another, and its never the same experience every time I go,” senior Ricki Gaber said.

The trucks are typically lined up along a fairly long street or in an empty parking lot, which leaves an area for customers to set up blankets and folding chairs for a picnic.

Some people prefer to show up on the early side before the crowds arrive since the lines start to stretch Funcia says that the classic food truck

custom is not to eat a whole meal from one truck but try a little something from different trucks and share it with the people you are with. Although the trucks charge more than your typical hot dog stand, the items tend to cost less than an average sitdown restaurant.

“The foods get kind of pricey so it’s easier to share with your friends,” Gaber said The food truck round-ups can be found on Mondays at Arts Park in Young Circle Hollywood, Tuesdays on Biscayne and 127th street across from Johnson and Wales, and Thursdays at Hard Rock Casino in Hollywood.

Before going out to dinner at another sit-down restaurant, consider the festive food trucks.

For more information on Food Truck round-ups check out http://miamifoodtrucks.com/ or follow your favorite food truck on Twitter.

October Playlist Songs Our Deal by Best Coast Crazy For You

Boys & Girls by Martin Solveig Ft. Dragonette Smash

No Church In The Wind by Jay-Z & Kanye West Watch The Throne

Love by Foster The People Torches

Adventures of Rain Dance Maggie by Red Hot Chili Peppers I’m With You

Yacht Week In America by 3LAU Dance Floor Filth

Rumour Has It by Adele 21

Baby Missiles by The War On Drugs Slave Ambient

Out Of My Head by Lupe Fiasco Ft. Trey Songz Lasers

Colours by Grouplove Never Trust A Happy Song

Compiled by Clarissa Buch and Taylor Silver Graphic by Sharon Sabbagh

JOIN YOUR

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

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

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

SAVE THE DATE: PRESENTING THE 1ST COMMUNITY-WIDE

Sunday, November 6 At Highland Oaks Middle School 2375 NE 20 Street North Miami 33180 8AM-1PM $50 per space and keep your profit For more information please contact: Zena Gruda: (305) 215 9137 Anny Vainstein: (305) 788 0721

The Lightning Strike • September 2011

Page 10

Out With the Old...

In With the New. . .

TheDawn of Dawn Baglos and her approach to the new year.

By Sharon Sabbagh managing editor For new Principal Dawn Baglos, working at Krop is like returning home.

“This is where my roots are,” Baglos said. “The population here has been very respectful and receptive.”

Baglos’ first administrative position was in 2004-2007 as an assistant principal at Krop.

In 2007, she was named High School Assistant Principal of the Year for the state of Florida.

Baglos’ first began teaching as a sixth grade teacher at Biscayne Gardens Elementary.

After three years, she was asked by Johns Hopkins University to travel the country and teach other educators

how to best develop students’ reading skills.

“It was then that I decided I wanted to become an administrator,” Baglos said about her work for Johns Hopkins University. “It enabled me to see quality education across the nation.”

Baglos’ theme for this year is: “One person can make a difference.” One way she hopes to make a difference is by learning each individual student by name.

“Schools really are about relationships, and if you call someone by name, the response is so much more meaningful,” Baglos said. “I even took home last years’ yearbook over the summer and tried to learn names.”

Baglos says that as principal, her typical day

consists of problem-solving and paperwork. However, she is often spotted around campus, checking out classes.

“For one hour everyday, she has her calendar open, so she can see students and visit classrooms,” Baglos’ secretary Judi Anderson said. “She is very into students and their needs, and wants to be a part of their experience here.”

Baglos says that the schedule changes and dress code were already in place before she started at the school, and she will continue to enforce them along with a zero tolerance tardy policy.

“I think if we can focus on school-wide discipline then we can make a difference,” Baglos said.

Her other goals include improving 10th grade writing

skills and encouraging the entire school to work on reading comprehension.

Baglos had been the principal at Krop’s feeder school, Highland Oaks middle (HOM) for two years before she was reassigned to Krop.

Balgos’ presence made some ninth graders more comfortable with their transition into high school because they felt their principal was accompanying them.

“Ms. Baglos has always been mistaken for a strict principal with too many rules,” freshman Khaled Abdulhadi said. “Truth is, she helped HOM develop into a great school with a great environment for students. Even though MKHS will be a bigger challenge, the former Panther can do it.”

The Lightning Strike •September 2011

Baglos After 7 years at the school, Principal Mathew Welker is no longer working at Krop. We should remember the former principal while welcoming new principal, Dawn Baglos.

IN MY OPINION gabriela mckenzie

co-sports editor

“Bye for now”- three words so part of our collective consciousness but no longer heard at the end of announcements or urging students to do their best on test days.

The start of the school year is never without change, and this year we hear the voice of new principal, Dawn Baglos, intoning the mantra that “one person can make a difference.”

Baglos said that much needs to be done, such as enforcing the policies that were in place before she landed her new position, plus improving on school-wide reading and writing. She feels that students and faculty who work together can improve the overall school environment.

“The tardies and the dress code need to improve,” Baglos said. “Then the learning begins.”

This year our school has inherited a new bell schedule set in place by the former administration. This is the major change of the year because all students and teachers must adapt.

Those who teach magnet, sports, and production classes were able to fully utilize the

two hour blocks previously given, but now have to make use of half that time.

Junior Ashley Goldman admits her curricular classes were “too long” and that some of class was spent staring at the clock. For Goldman, the one hour schedule forces her to become more responsible and stay organized. She also appreciates Baglos’ style.

“I think [Baglos] is doing a good job in trying to make sure the school runs better and stays on the right track,” Goldman said. “She is more organized and cares about the students.”

Junior Sabrina Yagman agrees, to a point. Yagman sees the need for a stricter environment, but as an art magnet student, she feels robbed of studio time.

“We know she is good with student needs, but we don’t know how she is compared to Welker with larger matters,” Junior Jolie Aversano said. “[Baglos] is more hands on while [Welker] was more behind the scenes.”

One of the qualities of the Baglos style of administering is her positive energy and high expectations for students.

“She has an uncanny ability to bring out the best in everybody,” activities director Michelle Russell said. “Her attitude is that every one has something to offer.”

Page 11

Feature

The Lightning Strike September • 2011

Page 12

Teachers remember 9/11 MEMORIAL

Teachers share their experiences from Sept.

11, 2001

“ I was in my old room, 2-244,

when Shawn Beightol burst in to let us know that an airplane had struck the World Trade Center.

Upset as I was, I just attributed it to a malfunctioning plane. A few minutes later, the event was repeated in the second tower.

What seemed like in the same heartbeat, there were reports of another plane crashing into the Pentagon as well. Another plane crashing into a field in Pennsylvania then came across the television screen that we were all now glued to. On that day, every American and many citizens around the world became a New Yorker. For those of us who were alive when President Kennedy was shot, or when the Challenger blew up, this moment will forever be frozen in our minds.”

- Science teacher Gary Feilich

PHOTO CREDIT JAVIER STORCH

“ I was in eighth grade in the

main office at Highland Oaks Middle School when I saw the second plane hit the World Trade Center on TV. ” - Math teacher, Erica Drybread

“Sept. 11th caused many

emotions for me, some of which included anxiety, fear and vulnerability. There were so many heroes born that day.”

- Math teacher Kim Ferreira

REMEMBRANCE: Social Studies Honor Society displays artwork of Sep. 11 memories. Teachers wrote stories of what they remembered from that day.

“ I was in room 2-169, adjacent “ My friend Ginger Ormistan was

sitting at her desk in Tower One and was killed on 9/11/01. It’s a terribly sad personal memory for me, especially when I see her two children growing up without a mom these past 10 years. They didn’t deserve this -- just like all the other devastated families.

The senselessness and horror of it will stay with me always.”

- History teacher Judy Gelber

“Andy Kearns looked around

the corner and told me to turn on my TV, a plane had just smashed into one of the buildings at the World Trade Center. While we watched in horror there was another plane, then people jumping, then the buildings fell. That night I held my loved ones and cried and cried and cried.”

- SPED teacher Manny Quiroga

“ On Sept. 11, 2001 my four-

year-old daughter was already at her pre-school class and I was at home, breast feeding my seven-week-old son, while watching the news on TV when the airplanes hit the towers in New York. ” - Science teacher Lisa Berner

to Mr. Green’s room. I was teaching ESOL. Some students ran in from another room and told us to put the TV on. I saw the first tower, then the second, being hit. I went to Ms. Green.

I started crying. My apartment in Staten Island had overlooked the NY harbor. That was my view for five years, my connection.”

- ESOL teacher Linda Sadaka

ADMISSIONS

Students take alternative approach to college applications

By Javier Storch photo and web editor

Colleges have used YouTube videos to attract potential students, but recently, students have started to use YouTube to attract colleges.

“By making a video you can show off a special talent, which you wouldn’t be able to do through writing,” senior Ryan Wolis said.

“I feel like it’s in a preliminary stage, as more colleges begin to see the benefits, they will adopt video and add it to the application process.”

In a video by YouTube user Zooksofhazzard for Tufts University, a teenager creates a

rap out of sounds paper can make.

He starts off with the beat of paper ripping and then combines paper flicks.

“The disadvantage of this would be if a person is not photogenic, or is shy in front of a camera,” senior Ryan Wolis said.

“That might weigh against them.”

Schools differ on the video submission policy. George Mason University and St. Mary’s College of Maryland allow applicants to submit a video as a supplement or replacement essay.

Tufts University allows applicants to submit a video as a supplement, but not in replacement of an essay.

Krop alumni Michael Gross is still not convinced. He said that even if he had known about college application videos, he wouldn’t have submitted one. Gross felt that the applications and essays were enough to express his personality.

Although college video applications are fairly new, the number of schools that offer a video supplemental are gradually increasing.

“Because colleges are trying to make the application process easier, I wouldn’t be surprised if the video applications reached the same level of seriousness as an essay,” senior Katie Goldman said.

Teachers say the darndest things “You want something to lighten the mood, make a histogram of a categorical variable, that’s hilarious.”

- Math teacher William Taillon “I don’t care if it’s a chemical change, a physical change, or a sex change.”

- Science teacher Carlos Montero “You need to start acting like seniors and not senior citizens.”

- Social studies teacher Ellen Elias “If we have to evacuate, women and children will go first to break my fall.”

- Science teacher Gary Feilich

The Lightning Strike • September 2011

Feature Page 13

Students step up Students speak out on what they will do as individuals to make a difference for the school.

“Each student could stop making fun of other students. It’s disrespectful.”

-Tomas Ruiz, freshman

“ I could pick up trash on the floor when I see it to make the school cleaner, and leave less work on the custodians.”

- Taylor Torano, senior

“ I can have a positive attitude to-

ward the school, which will help motivate the people around me to do better. ” - Ayana Bascom, senior

“ I could put fliers in the boys bath”

room to tell them to stop peeing on the floor and anywhere else other than the toilet.”

- Jared Cove, sophomore

“ Each student can be nicer to the

freshmen because they are being picked on everyday.”

- Richard Cordova, sophomore PROVIDED BY DAWN BAGLOS

MAKE A DIFFERENCE: This motivational poem urges students to help the school and community through individual acts and participation in school activities. Principal Dawn Baglos started this year with the perspective that one person could make a difference and hopes students will follow along with her efforts.

“ “ I am making a difference by

being friendly to all students. I saw someone making fun of a boy dancing so I started to dance with him. It is important to make people feel a part of something.”

- Andrea Turcios, sophomore

“ I can make a difference by

following school rules and guidelines, like wearing proper attire, coming to school on time and always wearing my I.D.” - Nicholas Givans, senior

Feature

The Lightning Strike September • 2011

Page 14

COLLEGE

Community service hours appeal to admissions officers

By Michael Behfar co-spread editor Teachers, advisers, and counselors often tell students that community service hours are important, but their actual value is misunderstood.

Admissions officers agree that community service hours rank below GPA and SAT scores in enrollment criteria. Therefore, most state colleges will not reject a student because they have too few hours.

Yet, service hours help a student’s application stand out.

College advisor Robert Roddy said that colleges want students who take a leadership role in their community service work.

Only the top schools care enough about extracurricular activities and community service to turn someone away for not having a sufficient amount.

However, Roddy said that the University of Florida, the second best school in Florida according to the 2011 National University Ranking, has been known to care far more about SAT and ACT scores than community service.

When it comes to the type of service students should look for, quality over quantity is what counts, according to Roddy. For example, working for a group that raises money for disease research is worth more than filing papers in an office.

Roddy emphasized that admissions officers value consistency in community service.

An application for a student who

PRATEEK SACHDEVA

HELP OTHERS: Seniors Jennifer Thelusma, Michael Pescov, Alonzo Williams, Aliah Rutledge, Luis Montoya, Alexandria Wilkins and junior Christian Roa help organize boxes of donations at the Feeding South Florida warehouse with the Octagon service club. Feeding South Florida is an organization that collects food, toys and clothing to redistribute to people in need.

only volunteers one hour here and there or crams multiple hours in the month before graduation will be less attractive than an application with consistant hours over a long period of time.

“Community volunteer work doesn’t have to be boring. “You can volunteer with your friends,” sophomore Evan Gruda said.

Gruda earned 250 hours from doing consistent volunteer work for his temple and sports teams.

He recommends students to join an after school club that offers hours such as earth club. When members plant trees and put on informational plays they can earn hours.

President of the community

service club Octagon, Prateek Sachdeva said that the club’s motto is, We do our bit of helping the world by helping the community.

Hours are not only useful on a college application, but are essential when applying for scholarships.

Florida Bright Futures, for example, recently raised the number of hours

required for their most substantial scholarship, from 75-100 hours, and their Merit scholarship requirements from zero to 75.

Students are required to perform one hour of community service to graduate.

However, their college of choice still sees greater involvement as an asset.

ANIMAL RIGHTS

Puppy stores fund an abusive business

By Leigh Markowitz feature editor One week after birth Luna, a bulldog born in a puppy mill in south Miami, passed away because of a low white blood cell count.

“I met Luna the day my friend brought her home from the pet store, and it was heartbreaking to see such a helpless animal die after such a short life,” senior Ariel Snihur said.

According to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA), a puppy mill is, by definition, a “large-scale” commercial dog breeding operation where the well-being of the animals is put second to profit.

“Puppy mills are just the greed of inhumane individuals looking to extort animals for income, not love,” senior Robert Konigsberg, co-president of the

LEIGH MARKOWITZ

PROTEST: Hollywood residents demonstrate outside of Puppy Palace. They were frustrated with the inhumane treatment of the puppies for sale.

Students for Ethical Animal Treatment, said.

According to the ASPCA, puppy mills do not place animal health as a priority,

and therefore, dogs like Luna are inflicted with illnesses that range from anemia to distemper and parvovirus.

A cause of such diseases is

the unsanitary facilities that the animals are subjected to.

Ana Bueno, the director and owner of Paws to Care Rescue, a non-profit, no-kill animal shelter, says that many breeders claim that they are United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) approved, but there are thousands of puppy mills and very few USDA inspectors.

Often inspectors do not take the time to inspect many of the mills.

Bueno said that sometimes the water the dogs in these mills have to drink is green.

In 2010, the ASPCA investigated a puppy mill in Holy Springs, Mississippi that was the site of 95 underweight dogs, feces covered pens, skin disease, rotted teeth and multiple infections.

There were also several dead adult dogs and puppies found on the property.

Such mills are funded by

pet stores like Puppy Palace in Hollywood, Florida.

“The puppy stores are feeding into a blood business,” Bueno said. “It’s supply and demand because if puppy stores continue to buy, mills will continue to produce.”

Not only are the animals in the mills suffering, but so are those in animal shelters. The dogs at the Humane Society are robbed of potential homes each time a puppy is bred at a puppy mill.

“There were so many animals at the Humane Society where I volunteered,” senior Andrea Plat said. “It upsets me when they lose an opportunity to get a home.”

Five to seven million animals enter shelters in this country each year. Three to four million are euthanized because there are too many animals and not enough homes for all of them.

Science & Health

The Lightning Strike • September 2011

Page 15

HEALTHY OPTIONS

Fast food resturants change for the better

By Clarissa Buch co-copy editor Popular fast food chains like McDonalds and Burger King have began to offer healthier alternatives with lower fat, cholesterol and sodium, in order to boost sales, promote anti-obesity and attract a new demographic.

Along with fresh fruits and salads, McDonalds has added fruit smoothies to their menus.

According to the company, the fruit is “picked at the peak of ripeness and pureed immediately.”

According to sales, this addition was so successful that its introductory sample program was cut short and the new item entered the regular menu.

Maple-flavored oatmeal with diced red and green apples, a mix of raisins and cranberries, and crème is another item soon to be added to the McDonalds menu. At $1.99 it is a healthy snack for children, teens and adults.

“A healthy snack consists of fresh fruits and vegetables, lean proteins

and

complex

Order

carbohydrates found in whole grains,” health science teacher said. “Any Lisa Berner restaurant that offers these

choices at a reasonable price would be worth trying.”

Burger King has also taken a step towards a healthier menu.

Tender-grilled chicken sandwiches, veggie burgers, chicken garden salads, and ham omelet sandwiches, all less than 350 calories, are among its healthy options.

“I do think it’s a better idea that they are taking a healthier approach,” sophomore Michelle Krigsfeld said. “However, I feel like they should just make their original

products healthier and more natural because that’s why people love going to McDonalds and Burger King.”

By 2015, McDonalds plans to reduce the sodium content in its food across its national menu by an average of 15 percent.

By 2020, it will have reduced added sugars, saturated fat and calories.

According to McDonalds Corporate Responsibility repor t, “Our goal is to continuously improve our classic offerings and increase the number and variety of new options that deliver the great taste and balance our customers seek.”

SECRET MENUS

Like a

Pro

Ever step into your favorite restaurant and realize you are tired of everything on the menu? Fear no more! Here is a list of restaurants that offer secret items that can be yoursall you have to do is ask.

Not in the mood for a colossal burrito?

This fast food restaurant offers many “off the menu” alternatives.

Choose from nachos, quesadillas or even a quesorito, a burrito with melted cheese, to satisfy your taste buds.

Jamba Juice: This healthy smoothie restaurant has a full secret menu not listed in stores because of its poor nutritional value. But if you request a Sourpatch Kids smoothie, they will know exactly what you are talking about. Find more secret smoothies at www. jambajuice.com.

Starbucks: This coffee restaurant will add anything you request to perfect your drink. Some locations also offer special sizes. Order any hot drink ‘Short’ for an option smaller than the ‘Tall’. Or go all out and order a ‘Triente’ for a 30 oz. beverage.

Mc D onalds: Feel the need to combine a burger, fish and chicken in one sandwhich?

Order the “Land, Sea and Air Burger.” Is this trio not enough for you? Visit www.mcdonalds. com for more interesting combinations and ‘off the menu’ items.

Chipotle:

Complied by Sara Alverez staff writer

Open 7 Days a week Restaurant Hours: 11:00am - 10:00pm

19004 NE 29th Ave. Aventura Florida 33180 Phone: (305) 932-7553 Fax: (305) 933-3420

http://www.heavyburger.com/

Science & Health Page 16

TECHNOLOGY

By Dean Kaire staff writer Students are registered to social networking sites such as Facebook, MySpace and Twitter, but on June 28th, 2011 another up and coming social network was launched by Google, known as Google + and it has become a threat to the current leader, Facebook.

Google+ is in Beta-Testing Mode now, which means select users are allowed in the site to experiment and toy around with it.

The Lightning Strike • September 2011

: the latest in social networking Users must be 18 and older to join the site.

can join Hangout on a group videoconference and even watch the same video from YouTube.

Circles allows users to group their friends into real life categories such as family, friends or business.

Instant Upload gives users the ability to upload photos and videos at instant speed, faster than other social networking sites.

Hangout, another feature, is similar to broadcasting a status message. It lets users to see what people are doing and their plans for the near future. A group of people

Sparks allows users to type their interest in a tool bar, which automatically processes the information and suggests websites or articles based on their searches.

Huddle is a more sophisticated group chat that can also be accessed on mobile devices that support Google +.

Business Insider applauds the new Google + for its design, ease of use and simple steps to manage privacy settings. ABC reported that users spend over 7 billion minutes a month on Facebook and other social networking sites.

Google + has the potential to surpass Facebook as the number one social networking site, but only time will tell.

EXHAUSTION

Health is jeopardized by sleep deprivation

By Alexis Frankel co-copy editor When the clock strikes 7:20 a.m, the living dead take over.

Half-conscious students with glazed eyes flop into desks, exhausted because they went to bed too late and their alarms went off too early.

On average, teenagers need eight to nine hours of sleep to be well rested. However, according to the Journal of Adolescent Health, only 8 percent of high school students get enough sleep on school nights.

“I usually get about six hours of sleep and 7 ½ on a good day,” junior Audi Barnes said.

“This makes me really groggy and unwilling to participate in classes when I get to school.”

Even though students admit

that they know how many hours they need in order to be energized, the need often goes neglected, especially returning from summer where staying up late became a habit.

“Ever since school started, I fall asleep as soon as I get home, and then I’m up all night.” junior RaiJean Neloms said.

While old habits are an issue, other students feel its the teachers that keep them up.

“Teachers give us a lot of homework,” sophomore Iara Prus said. “My chemistry teacher gave my class an outline of a 30 page chapter, on top of two other assignments.

He expects us to get it all done in a certain amount of time and to get sleep.”

Bad sleeping habits and

endless homework aside, most students stay up late without knowing the consequences of sleep deprivation. The Harvardrun Nurses’ Health Study has found that lack of sleep raises the risk of depression, obesity, diabetes and heart disease among other health problems.

“Last night I was all finished with my homework, but wanted to watch an extra episode of Gilmore Girls, although I knew it was a bad idea,” junior Tal Salomonovitz said. “Today I feel sad and tired with absolutely no energy.”

Even though organizations such as the National Sleep Foundation push schools to provide more information on the dangers of sleep deprivation, students feel this wouldn’t help.

“Schools shouldn’t provide

education on sleep deprivation because I don’t think it would affect students since they usually sleep later due to the abundance of homework,” junior Kaman Cheng said.

“The new schedule adds to the burden.”

Other organizations such as Start Later for Excellence in Education Proposal (SLEEP), want to fix sleepy students by starting school later. SLEEP has already raised money to fund time change in Fairfax County Public School, but has not had enough support to put their plan into action.

“I’ve gone to sleep early, on time and late, and always feel like garbage every morning,” junior Thomas Caprara said.

“I’m pretty sure most of the school feels this way too.”

Health questions answered: “Is marijuana actually addictive?”

Ih recent times, there has been controversy whether or not marijuana is or isn’t addictive. The answer is no, but if one is a chronic user, the feeling and routine of smoking can be addictive and hard to stop. Those who try to stop experience withdrawl symptoms such as irritability, sleepiness, anxiety, impaired appetite and aggression. Other side effects of marijuana include panic attacks, shortened attention span, increased chance of heart attack, impaired judgment and a slue of other life damaging consequences.

For more information visit abovetheinfluence.com/facts/ drugsmarijuana.

“What’s a healthy amount of calories to eat in a day?”

The truth is, everyone’s body is very different and there is no exact amount that is perfect for everyone. There are many factors that need to be considered when counting calories, such as the amount of physical activity done each day or certain blood sugar levels. In general, men need between 2,000 and 4,000 each day, whereas women need between 1,200 and 1,400 a day. Then again it varies for every person and everyone needs to find the right amount of calories that works for their diet and lifestyle.

Complied by Maddie Garfinkle science and health editor

LOCAL TREATS

The revival of frozen yogurt

By Taylor Silver entertainment editor Chia pets, Jazzercise, legwarmers and frozen yogurt.

While most of these trends have died out since the 1980s, frozen yogurt has seen a rebirth.

The treat was reintroduced as a low-fat, low-calorie alternative to ice cream and sales soared over 200%. Frozen yogurt’s boom in popularity was restarted in 2005 when the first Pinkberry store opened in California. The Fro-Yo frenzy is now sweeping Miami.

Here is a helpful guide to Miami’s newest frozen yogurt places.

Location: 1664 NE Miami Gardens Drive

Locations: 100 South Biscayne Blvd. and 521 Lincoln Road

Location: 1370 Gulfstream Park

Positive: It provides a cool, futuristic atmosphere with its giant television and rotating spherical chairs as well as its friendly staff. The yogurt is also 100% kosher, which invites a greater variety of customers to the store.

Positive: The yogurt is prepared in a unique blending system that combines yogurt and fresh fruit that are high in fiber and antioxidants.

Its convenient location in a major shopping center near various restauraunts make it a great option for a guilt-free desert.

Positive: With unique flavors like Devil’s Food Cupcake Batter, Dragon Passion Tart, and Peanut Butter and Jelly, Yogurtland proves to be a different snacking experience each time you step foot inside.

Negative: If you get fruit as a topping: BEWARE. It’s probably not too fresh.

Negative: Poor toppings selection. Gummy bears are nowhere to be found.

Negative: Be prepared to stand, there is hardly any seating inside.

Location: 21211 Biscayne Blvd.

Positives: In addition to frozen yogurt, Pinkberry has smoothies, parfaits and fruit bowls. The yogurt is not icy and has an authentic, tart taste.

Negatives: At six dollars for a medium cup without toppings, it’s one of the more expensive shops in Miami. It can get packed, so avoid going on a Saturday night if you intend on getting in the door.

Sports Page 17

The Lightning Strike • September 2011 BASEBALL

New coach steps up to plate

Javier Storch

DRILLS: Coach Sullivan demonstrates how to pitch during baseball practice to prepare the players for their upcoming game.

By Courtney Goodstein staff writer After six seasons of being an assistant coach, Jason Sullivan is now the head coach of the Lightning baseball team.

This year will be Sullivan’s first year as a head coach, as he replaced Coach Brian Larsen.

“I am very excited to be head coach,” Sullivan said. “Being given the opportunity to run a program on my own is very

cool, and I am ready for the challenge.”

Although Sullivan admits his coaching style is very demanding, he believes it will help his players reach their full potential. He makes sure his players always work hard and remain disciplined, but keeps them motivated by keeping them hungry.

“Sullivan’s coaching style is in your face, quick information, that helps you a lot and can sometimes give you that Eureka moment,”

junior Carlos Murillo said.

The returning players are enthusiastic about the prospect of having Sullivan as a coach once again.

“He [Sullivan] taught me a lot my freshman year, and having a coach who is so knowledgeable about the game is important,” sophomore Ronald Williams said.

“He is a very hands-on coach and if you don’t understand something he will show you physically and visually how to do it.”

Sullivan has experience as a coach and a player. During his college career he played baseball for Florida Atlantic University (FAU) and Nova Southeastern University. In addition, he played three years in the minor leagues for Sioux City and Kalamazoo.

Though the season does not start for a few months, the team already has been mentally and physically preparing. The team works on their skills daily to become better player and become mentally stronger. As the season draws closer, Sullivan’s goal becomes more realistic: bring the District Championship trophy back to Krop.

INJURY

Heat exposure affects athletes health

By Madeline Garfinkle science & health editor What was suppose to be a regular P.E. class quickly turned to disaster when eight middle school students became sickened from heat exhaustion and had to be helped by the fire rescue, after doing a mile run.

“What we recommend is that the athletes drink water and Gatorade the night before so it starts to store in their body,” Coach Michael Kypriss said.

He stated that heat is one of the main concerns until about mid-October.

Along with keeping athletes

hydrated, coaches are required to do concussion testing and know how to be prepared for the worst. They check for lightning on the field to make sure practices and games are safe. Impact testing is also used to test for nutrition, hydration and impact levels.

These tests ascertain that an athletes’ brain has not been affected by a concussion or other brain damage.

“Being in extreme heat doesn’t let you perform to your maximum ability,” baseball player Ryan Heisler said.

Between 2001 and 2009, more than 3,000 young adults

under the age of 20 were treated in emergency rooms for illnesses caused by heat.

Experts say that playing outside in the heat requires you to drink twice as much fluid.

In Florida, it is especially important to make sure that you stay hydrated while playing sports. The American Academy of Pediatrics says that there are ways to avoid heat related illnesses. Trained staff should know how to treat heat related illnesses, coaches should adapt practices and games to heat conditions and provide fluids before, during and after physical activity.

Athletes of the month VARSITY A great contributor to the varsity football team and a threat to rival teams, senior Johnny Durante is one of this month’s outstanding athletes.

Durante plays various positions, from receiver to safety.

“I think it’s great,” Durante said. “I’ve been dedicated to the team since ninth grade.”

Photo by Javier Storch

Johnny Durante 12th grade

JUNIOR VARSITY Every practice day freshman Jeremiah Pierce-Johnson heads to the football field with enthusiasm, dedication and willingness.

“You can see he loves the game,” head coach Andy Block said.

Pierce-Johnson has been selected as the junior varsity football athlete of the month.

Johnson exhibits leadership and dedication to the sport.

“It’s really not about me, it’s all about the team,” PierceJohnson said on being selected athlete of the month.

Photo by Nathalie Prieto

Jeremiah Pierce-Johnson 9th grade

BADMINTON

Compiled by Gabriela McKenzie and Nathalie Prieto

Social Studies teacher gains new coaching position

By Leigh Markowitz feature editor Social studies teacher Judy Gelber has taken her expertise from the classroom to the badminton court since she has replaced former badminton coach Larry Ball, who retired last year.

Gelber wanted to coach badminton because many of her students played for the team. She also has the support of new Principal Dawn Baglos, who is a former competitive badminton player.

“It’s nice to have support f r o m h i g h places,” G e l b e r said.

Gelber also hopes that Ball will find time in his retirement to come to practices and games.

Although Gelber ’s badminton experience

was limited to a childhood badminton set in her backyard, she is not new to racket sports.

She has played tennis in a competitive league and sponsored three charity tennis competitions.

In addition to being a first-year coach, Gelber is also an Advanced Placement teacher whose AP responsibilities will

conflict with away games.

But Gelber is not overly concerned and plans to follow former AP history teacher and tennis coach, Damon Halback, who also had to balance coaching and teaching

responsibilities.

“If Mr. Halback could do it with tennis and go to states and still have his students be successful on the AP exam, then that’s just what I’ll have to strive for,” Gelber said.

Sports

The Lightning Strike • September 2011

Page 18

REGULATIONS

FHSAA implements new guidelines

By Nathalie Prieto co-sports editor To prevent head concussions from turning into severe health problems, the Florida High School Athletics Association (FHSAA) has imposed new guidelines that could save high school athletes’ lives.

According to the Department of Neurological Surgery at Pittsburgh University, about 62,000 concussions occur every year among high school athletes who play a contact sport.

Concussions are disturbances in brain functions that occur after either a blow to the head or as a result of a violent head movement.

These head injuries can cause major neuropsychological impairments such as processing information, problem solving and memory.

One of the sports most susceptible to concussions is football. Unfortunately, after athletes receive a hit in the head, some tend to return to the field, which puts their health in danger.

In order to reduce the number of concussions, the FHSAA implemented new measures to protect athletes.

The new measure prohibits players who have suffered from what seems like a concussion to return to the field without a

Signs of a concussion Appears to be dazed or stunned Is confused about assignment Forgets plays Is unsure of game, score, or opponent NATHALIE PRIETO

NEW REGULATIONS: During practice junior varsity players Gianlucca Documet (left) and Matthew Santiago (right) perform the three point stance before beginning a play.

doctor’s consent. They also require a pre-season baseline cognitive test, which evaluates attention, memory and decision making for all season athletes.

Junior Paul James plays for the football team. Like his teammates, he took the baseline test in the school’s trainer office two weeks before school began.

The test was administered on a computer, lasted about eight to ten minutes and evaluated James’ cognitive function.

In addition, the athletic

association requires coaches to receive concussion management and training in order to deal with injured athletes. The yearly online course includes a 20 minute video on concussions.

Head football coach David Hudson and receiver coach Danac Lebrun both approve of the new guidelines.

“I think they’re good,” Hudson said. “They are helping prevent catastrophic injuries.”

Although none occurred last season, receiver coach Lebrun

has had experience with head concussions among his players.

Former player Christopher Lazarz suffered from a head concussion in the 2009-2010 season. Lazarz experienced a severe blow in the head and remained unconscious for two weeks in the hospital. The then senior recuperated and returned to school.

Lebrun is now certified in how to recognize a serious concussion. He feels the new regulations are a positive adjustment.

Moves clumsily Answers questions slowly Loses consciousness Shows behavior or personality change Compiled by Nathalie Prieto Source: ImpactTest.com

The Lightning Strike • September 2011

Fun and Games Page 19

Where will Ms. Elias sell agendas next?

Lightning word scramble

F CHRISTIAN DOUGNAC

U

N

pliytrsenosiib

otirsneisti

irfe lildr

tuavril hoclsos

ierltareut

mriaethcti

ANSWERS:

responsibility, senioritis, fire drill, virtual schools, litearture, arithmetic

Want to ADVERTISE?

MICHAEL BEHFAR

Contact us Room 2233 (305) 652 6808 ext.238

Monday 3

C T O B E R Tuesday

4

Wednesday

5

6

University of South Florida 1:20-2:20 Information Center

17 Amherst College/Baylor

24

York University 13 Newpresentation

12

9:40-10:30 Information Center

6:00-8:00 MKHS Gym

FAIR

Stanford University presentation 9:40-10:30 Information Center

19

18

cap and gown sales begin

Univerisity presentations 8:25-9:25 Information Center Barnard College presentations 9:45-10:45 Information Center

Friday

7

Vanderbilt University presentation 12:15-1:15 Information Center

11

10

Thursday

20

Haverford College presentation 8:25-9:25 Information Center

Football Game

21

University of Chicago presentation 8:25-9:25 Information Center

26

25

14

27

Simmons College presentation1:20-2:20 Information Center

28 THIS DAY

IN HISTORY:

Florida Atlantic University presentation1:20-2:20 Information Center

31

Halloween

KROP

1886

The Statue of Liberty is dedicated.

Saturday, October 15: Homecoming Dance – Ft. Lauderdale Sheraton Wednesday, October 12: Senior Panoramic Picture Thursday, February 2: Senior Breakfast Saturday, April 28: Grad Bash Saturday, May 19: Senior Prom

Through the lens:

pep rally

ERIC EIDELSTEIN

JAVIER STORCH

THUMBS UP: Senior Edward Roberson expresses his school spirit. The seniors were awarded class points for having the most school spirit at the pep rally.

FACE PAINTING: Senior Jaime Henschel paints Principal Dawn Baglos’s face before the pep rally. Face painting is one of the many ways that the SGA is galvanizing school spirit and involvement.

JAVIER STORCH

JAVIER STORCH

PERCUSSION: Magnet students form a drum line to open up the pep rally. They played multiple pieces and riled up the crowd.

SPEAK UP: Athletics director Michael Kypriss stirs up the crowd at the pep rally by speaking about the upcoming football game.

This was the first game of the year.