BAITLINE
Coral Reef Sr. High School
Which books are Get Ho ked Hispanic heritage
BANNED? p.2 month p.11
October 2008 Volume 12 Issue 3 10101 SW 152 Street Miami, FL 33157
Happy Halloween!
See the “Submerge Yourself” section
on pages 8 and 9 to discover the
origins of Halloween and some of
its ancient traditions and games.
2
Revised student
Coral Reef Sr. High
October 2008 News
code of conduct
ALEXANDRA CASTILLA
Staff Writer
At the start of the
2008-2009 school
year the newly
revised student
code of conduct
was stressed at
orientation.
Many students,
however, didn’t
exactly understand
what it meant and
its consequences,
except that girls Harry Potter has been censored from schools because it allegedly promotes
now must wear witchcraft.
shirts with sleeves To the dismay of I.B. senior Sasha
opposed to spaghetti Dunn, Mr. Mejia lays down the law.
straps.
“I don’t understand
why it necessary for
Banned book
such a change, bare shoulders never hurt anyone,” said IB senior Ana Perez.
Assistant Principal Mr. Evans says it all a matter of equality that Miami
Dade County Public Schools is trying to stress. It is only fair to have the same
regulations for all students no matter what gender they are.
week
ALEXIA FRITH
Staff Writer
For twenty seven years the American Library make it inaccessible,” said IB sophomore
“Such a strong focus on the importance of equality in schools has been put
Association has been “celebrating the freedom Britney James.
in place in order to get rid of stereotypes and much smaller problems,” said
to read.” Some of the books inaccessible in some
Evans.
Banned Book Week, usually on the last schools are the Harry Potter novels, which
It is important to understand, however, that the newly revised student code
week of September, informs Americans of were censored due to allegedly promoting
of conduct applies to all Miami Dade County Public Schools and that Coral
the privilege that they have to be able to read witchcraft.
Reef is not the only school forced to make such changes.
whatever book they choose. “The reason we celebrate Banned Books
“Laws have to change as situations in schools change,” said Mr. Evans.
This celebration is something that many Week is because it doesn’t matter what the
Amongst the changes in dress codes are changes in violations such as a
book lovers take great pride in. Libraries and book is, people will have biases because of
“procession of items or materials that are inappropriate for an educational
bookstores alike come together and display a lack of knowledge or prejudices and they
setting” (Level I Violation).
different books that have been “challenged.” are going to try to force their opinions on
Other changes to the code of conduct include the addition of the “distribution
These books have been censored for explicit everyone. Harry Potter was just caught up
of items or materials that are inappropriate for an educational setting” (Level
material. in that net,” said the school librarian, Mrs.
II Violation) and bullying (Level III Violation).
“I feel that [book banning] is unfair, because Fradera.
Evans claims that most of these changes to the student code of conduct
it withholds knowledge,” said Engineering Banned Book Week reminds Americans
don’t exactly apply to Coral Reef seeing as there has rarely ever been any
sophomore Jordon Thomas. of the importance in having freedom of the
kind of high offenses taken place at the school and the majority of the student
Books such as Killing Mr. Griffin, Captain press. Unlike in other parts of the world,
body are well-mannered.
Underpants, To Kill a Mockingbird and The like China or Cuba, citizens in the United
He also believes that the student code of conduct has a higher purpose.
Giver have been banned for reasons including States may read any book they wish.
“College is a lot stricter than high school. Many believe that in college
depictions of violence and destruction, or With sponsors like The American
because you have more independence you are allowed to do anything you
negative messages. Booksellers Association and The American
want. The opposite is true. The student code of conduct is getting students
“I don’t see why books would be ‘banned.’ Library Association, Banned Book Week
ready to be successful in college,” said Evans.
People should be able to read whatever they is something that is well endorsed and on
In the end, the aim for the school is to have a functional school setting, one
choose to. Just because someone doesn’t going. It is something students should take
where students are allowed to learn and develop without distraction.
approve of what someone else is reading pride in and use to their advantage.
doesn’t mean they have the right to want to
News Coral Reef Sr. High
October 2008 3
Waiting on the world to change: genocide in Darfur
SHANE SUMBU
“I think it’s “Dance for Darfur basically collects donations
Staff Writer horrible the way going towards helping displaced victims of
they’re trying to the genocide in Sudan with food etc. and is a
As Americans complain about such
get rid of a whole 6 hour dance marathon at the same time,” said
things as sky rocketing gas prices and the
population, “Do Something” club president, I.B. senior
recent dive the economy took, a youth in
because of Mar Echevarria.
Sudan is witnessing his home being burnt
their ethnicity Though the UN has taken little action
to the ground, his sister being raped and
and we’re not towards ending or slowing the Darfur genocide,
maimed and his peers being murdered.
doing anything students themselves can make themselves
For civilians in the Darfur region, in the
about it. I don’t heard and can take action through making
war torn eastern African nation of Sudan,
think it’s ethical donations, or participating in events such as
this has become a harsh reality.
at all,” said IB “Dance for Darfur.”
As the United States has overstayed
Senior Karishma “I think if the world is so concerned about
its welcome in the Middle East for the
Gieowar-Singh dictatorships and human rights then the UN
past 7 years, a similar Holocaust genocide
C u r r e n t l y, needs to pay more attention to what’s going
upon non-Arabs in Sudan has been taking
peace-keepers on in Darfur, if nothing else provide medicine,
place for the last 5 years. Many students wear Darfur stickers, like the sent into Sudan food and clean water for the victims,” said
The conflict began in February of one shown here, to voice their opinions on by the UN History teacher Mr. Bullard.
2003 when two rebel groups accused
the ongoing genocide. attempt to help Most importantly, the genocide is going on,
the Sudanese government of oppressing
civilians as the and being aware is the first step in solving the
non-Arab Sudanese citizens in Darfur.
death rate grows problem. Now is the time when students can
In response, President Omar al-Bashir
exponentially. However, these peace-keepers are ill- show their humanistic sides, to show their
sent an Arab militant group known as the Janjaweed from
equipped and poorly funded. potential to care and to effect a difference.
the capital of Khartoum into the Darfur region, where they
As students, we can help by donating to the cause through “I think students should be actively involved
killed unarmed citizens, systematically raped women and
web sites such as savedarfur.org or simply sign a petition in humanitarian efforts. As far as Darfur goes,
burned whole villages to the ground.
demanding international action against the brutal killing they should join the “Save Darfur” coalition’s
Since then, nearly 400,000 have been murdered and
through the same site. million strong list so they can get information
2.5 displaced, now living in refugee camps in the nearby
In addition with events such as Amnesty International’s periodically on how they can help,” said I.B.
nation of Chad. An estimated nearly 15,000 people die
“Dance for Darfur,” students can both show support and Senior Daniella Carucci.
each month.
have a good time.
Gone and Back Again Diversity in the Reef
Students from different ethnicities share their
DROP forces teachers to retire and return experiences at school
JORDAN FELDMAN
gain that extra year. Instead, this year he Staff Writer
has come back as a part-time teacher. He
said that the original proposition made was The diversity of the student
to allow teachers to come back on a yearly body at Coral Reef is apparent
contract after the eight years but it was not just by walking down the
approved. halls any given day and being
“I loved the insurance and salary of being surrounded by an abundance
a full time teacher and now I’m being of ethnicities and cultures.
paid only one-third of the salary with no Reef’s diversity is reflected by
benefits. We were lucky though that Mrs. the range of foreign language
Leal could bring us back part time. She has classes offered, number of
been very good to us,” said Mr. Hunt. afterschool activities, and
Mr. Hunt, a part time AP European Melissa Cruz, Patrick Volum, Maya Carter,
The disadvantages of teachers not being number and variety of
teacher, was forced to exit the and Kent White all share a common
able to come back the three extra years extracurricular clubs.
DROP program. friendship despite their ethnic diversities.
came down to the money factor. Working The Coral Reef High School
three extra years allowed the returning census, according to www.
teacher to earn a lot more money; Mr. Hunt muninetguide.com confirmed “Although I’m Hispanic, I have friends
NICOLE BRANDFON estimated around $50,000 more each year. the ethnic diversity of its student body in of many different backgrounds which is
As teachers, each year worked gains it demographics. one of the unique features of Coral Reef
Staff Writer
more seniority which causes salary to go Of Coral Reef’s 2,995 students, 50.2% High School,” said IB sophomore Alejandra
up, even if by little, giving teachers who are Latino, 23.7% are White, 21.2% Garcia.
work longer more money. For example, are African American, 4.7% are Asian, There is a visual display as well as an
Going into the 2008-2009 school year, auditory display of the cultural individuality
a teacher who has been working in the and 0.2% is Native American. This
many students took notice of the amount of
teachers who came back with fewer classes
school system for 30 years will make is consistent with the demographics of the student body of the many languages
and fewer students. Mr. Hunt, an AP
$68,225 versus a beginning teacher who of Miami-Dade County and its large being spoken.
would make $40,804 . Hispanic population. It is not uncommon to hear conversations
European History Teacher, and Mr. Ford spoken in Spanish, German, French, English
“I understand why they made us exit the The diversity of clubs represents the
both came back as part-time teachers due
to the change in the retirement program of
program, however, it is ridiculous that Mr. different ethnicities and cultures here at and many others. Many students learn a
Ford and I could not come back as first year Coral Reef High School. second or even third language outside the
all state employees, DROP.
DROP stands for “deferred retirement
teachers with beginning salary and benefits They include the Afro-Heritage Club, classroom as well as in.
because with 38 years of experience we the Hispanic Heritage Society, the The variety in cultures and ethnicities
option plan,” which is a combination enables Coral Reef to have such an
would be a bargain,” said Mr. Hunt. German Heritage Society, and the
of many retirement systems that allow
employees to retire but continue working
This retirement program, DROP, has had a French Club Society. All of these clubs exceptional environment for its student
for several more years. Mr. Zucker
great effect on many schools everywhere. acknowledge a preference for diversity. body to prosper.
Now some teachers that were promised up “The many different ethnicities at Coral Although the students at Coral Reef
explained that after 5 years in the DROP come from different backgrounds, their
to three extra years of teaching full time Reef have taught me about my fellow
program you are supposed to automatically
retire and up until this year, teachers and
with a growing salary and benefits were classmates and their backgrounds as experiences and interactions with each
counselors could stay up to an extra three
cut off. well,” said Leisure Medicine sophomore other leaves them with knowledge and
Some of these teacher or counselors are Christine Webber. appreciation of each other.
years. “Being at Coral reef is like being back at
now back to school working part-time like Despite the many ethnic and cultural
This forced many teachers to retire who are Jamaica. Everyone is of different cultures
Mr. Hunt and Mr. Ford, but some schools groups, the students at Coral Reef High
now working part time in order to continue
to earn some extra money. Mr. Hunt had
were not as lucky and could not rehire School do not solely group themselves and it puts a perspective for us as an
completed seven years and was hoping to
teachers leaving them without their jobs according from where they came from international community,” said I.B. senior
and fully retired. or their race. Rashielle Teape.
4
Student employees
Coral Reef Sr. High
October 2008
Students in the “real
News
Balancing school with work is a responsibility Seniors discuss the benefits of taking internships
many students have to deal with “It’s a good experience
because I get to write
articles and not just do
SHATONE GRAY A direct deposit
is another tool that clerical work, which a
Staff Writer lot of internships consist
can aid an employee
in achieving their of,” said Uchdorff.
As students get older
personal financial A chance to go practice
there is a growing desire
goals. Money goes a special interest is
for independence.
directly to your always exciting, but
This sparks the search
account at the end what really makes the
for employment, the
of the pay period. internship elective so
installation into the work
“It’s rough sought after?
force.
out here on these It could be the fact
Few things excite a
streets! I gotta that it is offered only
young adult more than
pay for the things to seniors which makes
the anticipation of their
my parents think it more exclusive and
very first paycheck. Plans
are unnecessary. ultimately a privilege.
are made obligating
Sometimes I want “Personally I like
the funds that are well
another haircut, having an internship
on their way to a bank I.B. senior Barbara Uchdorff interns at The Miami
another pair of jeans because I have waited
account. Herald
Shaqueena Davis shows off her or shoes, my mom four years to become
Aside from all the
Burger King uniform. doesn’t want to ALEXANDER MELENDEZ a senior to have the
obvious perks that come
buy that. So I have Staff Writer opportunity to have an internship,” said
from having a job, there
to,” said Business Legal senior Stacey Perrera.
are also difficulties that Many seniors at the Reef are taking
sophomore James Brown. Other seniors like their internships for
some student employees face. a d v a n t a g e o f a n u n i q u e e l e c t i v e : another reason, like the chance to leave
Things are compromised, such as using Being employed allows for the freedoms
internships. school a few hours early.
available time effectively to complete that most kids want, but can’t afford. It is no surprise that Coral Reef offers “I love my internship. I get real hands
schoolwork, the time spent with a But there is one thing that the employed an abundance of electives to enhance a on experience outside of school. Also
boyfriend/girlfriend, and resting. students should think about, saving their
student’s learning experience, like “office getting out every other day a little bit
Students assume the responsibility of money. Money saved now will be a lot aid” or music theory. These electives provide earlier excites me,” said Legal senior
working with hopes of being able to help more useful in the future. a multidimensional element students’ Sabine Salnave.
pay their senior obligations, buy a car, or Also, with the upcoming senior
curriculums, often allowing them to branch The answer is ultimately based on
even some new clothes for partying on the expenses, money should be put to use in off into other areas of study.
the wisest of ways. With Homecoming personal preference.
weekends. Yet among all the courses and activities The popularity of internships might be
“I go out on the weekends without tickets being $70; Grad Bash, $120; offered at our school, the one students because of the chance to leave campus a
worrying about my mom pestering me Prom another $75; Senior Breakfast, look forward to the most is internship. It few hours early, or that the experience one
about how much money she’s given me,” $35; Senior pictures ranging from $100 is a chance for them to get real hands on receives at an internship cannot be found
said VPA senior Jennifer Brewer when to, in some cases, $600; surely parents experience in a field of their interest. in a school classroom.
asked about the advantages of being would be more than grateful to have For I.B. senior Barbara Uchdorff, interning
some financial help. Whatever the reason, it seems that senior
employed. at The Miami Herald offers her the chance to internships will remain a part of school
have her writing read by the public. tradition in the years to come.
Goodbye to Fatigue
Long Life to Live, thanks to Ceregumil
www.msbross.com
10%
Buy online at our store and get 10% off on
Ceregumil, recharges your body with natural energy and helps you feel your order (valid only for the Ceregumil
better. Natural Tonic, and the Ceregumil Ginseng.
SCIENTIFIC PROOF*, Ceregumil increses resistance to fatigue and the Discount code CRHSCERE
natural recovery of the body after realizing efforts.
*Studies realized by the department of Cellular, Genetic Biology and Physiology, of the University of Malaga,
Spain.
Opinions Coral Reef Sr. High
October 2008
5
Teenage Love Affair
Teenage relationships from a guy and girl perspective
CHIEDOZIE OKAFOR CHAMERE LITTLEJOHN
Staff Writer Staff Writer
Teenage years are some of the best in a young man’s life. Male The term “relationship” is a word that is vaguely used without
teens are in their prime, and feel that they have the ability to achieve knowing the exact meaning of it. It is taken and played with like a
anything. It just seems that young males, as most girls may say, baby learning to walk; stumbling to grasp on to the concept. The
can’t achieve everything needed to make the relationship work. bigger debate is asking “What exactly does it mean to be in a
There is no excuse for guys who are truly nonchalant and teen relationship from the girl’s perspective?”
choose not to put effort into his relationships; however there It is a concept that is most often misinterpreted in the eyes
are some guys that actually try, but just somehow fall short. of adults. Often parents figure that teens are too young to date,
Teen relationships are always a hassle. Both the guy or they aren’t yet ready.
and girl are young and just want to enjoy being a teen. It gets even worse, when the controversy of dating
After asking students, majority of the girls feel that between boys and girls are mentioned; is it fair that
being in a relationship can be a wonderful thing, girls always seem to be targeted when it comes to
but nearly every male student felt that at times the mere mention of dating, yet guys never seem
relationships can be extremely stressful. to have that problem?
Females are a little too serious when Ironically, it always seems to be the girls who
it comes to “teenage love,” it seems as if go through the most problems throughout the
they’re thinking about marriage as soon as relationship.
the guy consents to go out with them. These include disputes with parents, cheating,
“Girls are so complicated and it’s hard lies, break-ups: the list can go on forever. This
to have fun when you’re tied down,” said is not to say that guys make all the mistakes, but
Business senior Gerald Grant. most of the time they are the cause.
Ladies can be difficult! Guys are expected Stereotypes have always seemed to come into play
to walk their girlfriends to and from class, Young men are blind when it comes to painting
hold books, text her every second until the image of how a young lady is supposed to be
the bell rings, then do it all over again the treated. They have not yet gained the knowledge
following period. Has it ever dawned on of the right and wrong doings that tie into being in
these females that maybe their boyfriend a relationship. Are these really stereotypes or is it just
wants to be walked to their classes? reality that girls face while being in a relationship?
Do they not realize that the guys books “No, guys should not be taught the ‘correct way’ of
gets equally as heavy? being in a relationship. We just want to do it our way,”
“A boyfriend is supposed to do things said Legal senior Jean Andre.
for his girlfriend, not the other way around,” In reality, there is no ‘correct way’ of being in a
said Business senior Alexandria Marsh. relationship. Guys just need to understand that not all girls
True enough that part of being the man in are the same and they all deserve to be treated with a fresh
the relationship means being the rock, the heart. Some girls tend to enjoy the silliness guys portray
source of strength and stability, able to take and love their joking manner, but sometimes a boyfriend
care and keep his “girl” happy. can go overboard. Don’t forget, girls still love the sensitive
“Some of these girls be tripping! It’s like, and sweet side, too.
you take them out to eat, and when the meal is “If he can’t make me laugh, I’ll lose interest. His personality
done and the check has come, girls would just should compliment mine,” said I.B. senior Daniella Carucci.
fold their arms and look at you. It would be Girls usually stress out more that guys do when it comes to
nice if a girl would at least offer to help pay for relationships, mainly because they are struggling with the “L”
the tab!” said Legal Senior Joseph Jefferson. word. Typically girls seem to fall in love quicker than guys do;
Joseph makes a good point. To take on the they tend to get the fuzzy feelings in their hearts at a faster pace.
title of a boyfriend now-a-days is like signing “Most girls do like to think that they’re in love, because they
up to be 24 hour assistant/ bodyguard. There are want to feel wanted. For guys, not so much. They want to feel
some relationships where the female demands and needed, but not needy,” said I.B. senior Hannah Dowd.
or expects certain things. The guy has to deal with Guys aren’t off the hook though. A study shows that it is
random anniversaries, attitudes and mood swings, the guy’s fault for the love trap. So, exactly what trap do they
and trying to be considerate of feelings. set up to let those caterpillars out of their cocoons? It is the
That is a lot to juggle; it seems that as soon as goofiness and wittiness that girls oh so love.
the boyfriend messes up, he has committed the “People are just in love with the idea of being in love. There
ultimate crime. Some girls expect too much from have been times where I use to believe that myself, but I’m
their boyfriends, claiming that it’s all a part of being Lovebirds Victor Garcia not going to let it discourage me. It brings in the idea that
a “gentleman,” but what does being a gentleman and Sarah Gonzalez many people have married their high school sweethearts, so
really mean? why can’t I?” said senior Anquanette Anderson. “I believe if
“Well, Webster defines being a gentleman as a two people are deeply in love and both want that relationship
civilized, educated, sensitive, or well-mannered man,” said Business to work out, then they would do whatever they have to in order to
senior Stephanie Nicholas. make it last.”
Whatever the case may be, both the guy and girl in teenage relationships In actuality, girls tend to have a hate/love relationship when it
should try a little harder to enforce the 50/50 rule. Many girls have the comes to adoring the guys. They seem to love the things they hate.
misconception that the guy is there to do things for them, and not the It’s where they find their comfort that is lacking elsewhere. So do
other way around. Teen relationships are broken off by the male because not fret guys, although slackness may occur, you’re still loved just
the girl in the relationship had the mind-frame of receiving and never that much more.
giving. So no offense girls, but you’re not perfect either!
6 Coral Reef Sr. High
October 2008 Editorial
The Modern prometheus
Will today’s science become tomorrow’s Frankenstein monster?
As science speeds towards new innovations with each increased. If humans could live up to a hundred and fifty or two hundred
coming year, scientists must be evaluative and self-reflective, with years, they might not pursue a career or begin a family until fifty years or
a cautious eye on ethics. Otherwise, today’s science itself so. Then humans in their first fifty years life would just be resource
may become tomorrow’s Frankenstein monster. depletion with no contributions to society.
Mary Shelley saw the future when On the positive side, an extra fifty years in adolescence
she wrote Frankenstein in 1818, originally could mean fifty years dedicated to education; with
conceived as an idea to present at a such time given for schooling humans could
ghost story telling event. become even more skilled in their areas
What I mean when I of study. Society could then become
refer to science as today’s exponentially more efficient if such an
Frankenstein is not in the education plan was possible.
literal sense. Rather, I An increasing life span would
mean that science has also mean that the age gap
as much potential for between children and their
destruction as it does parents would increase. With
for helping people. reproduction occurring
Should we not so late in life, there is
be careful in greater risk of humans
our judgments dying before they have
and ethical children.
considerations, The world could then
we may just experience a drop in
suffer the same population growth,
fate as Dr. which may either open
Frankenstein: up job opportunities
destruction to people, or disrupt
from our own the economy because
miscalculated of a lack of inflowing
creations. skilled labor.
A prime But will world-wide
example of this is economies be able to
the controversial support such a prolonged
topic of stem-cell program of education
research, which is of fifty years for every
usually supported human?
by liberals a pathway And who would be granted
to curing disease, while this treatment for prolonged
conservatives denounce life? Will it be like the treatment
it as humans attempting to of AIDS, so expensive that only
play God. the rich can afford it? And would it
Undoubtedly it would be seen be ethical if some humans could live
as a good thing if life-prolonging significantly longer than others?
treatment became available to the These questions are the kinds of questions
public. Yet there are critical questions we as a society must ask ourselves as technology
that society must ask itself and important becomes ever so advanced. By no means is science
consequences that it must consider. “evil;” it helps millions of people every day (a little
With an increase in life-span, Americans would something called “modern plumbing). All the same, a cautious
find it more desirable to pursue a career later in life. After approach is the best approach because it is better to be safe than
all, the amount of time that can be afforded to waste in adolescence has dead.
BAITLINE
Baitline strives to provide quality student-led publications to
the student body providing the school community with an
open forum of public expression. In the publications class,
2008-2009 Staff students will make all editorial decisions including, but not
limited to: generating story ideas, writing copy, editing copy,
Editor-in-Chief Sports Editors Staff Writers Julian Ortiz laying out copy, taking photographs, and handling all aspects
Steven Li Julian Ortiz Karla Anderson Leidy Perez of running the business end of a school publication. Because of
Vanessa Rueda Nicole Brandford Jillian Roberts this, any comments or concerns should be addressed to the
editorial staff.
News Editors Jasmine Calin Vanessa Rueda
It should be understood that the newspaper is not a professional
Leidy Perez Spotlight Editor Alexandra Castilla Emma Singer publication; therefore, students will make mistakes during the
Megan Zucker Alexandra Castilla Trudy Clarke Shane Sumbu learning process. As a staff, we will make every effort to learn
Gabriella Delpozo Megan Zucker from these mistakes and continually improve the publication.
Tech Editor Jordan Feldman While our primary goal is to inform and entertain the school
Opinions Editor community, we also strive to maintain high journalistic
Jasmine Calin Emma Singer Alexia Frith Advisor standards. All opinions expressed in the publications are the
Shatone Gray Cheri Mitchell- students’ or the individual sources, and not the staff’s as a
Submerge Yourself High Tide Editor Steven Li Santiago whole, the advisor, or school officials.
Karla Anderson Chamere Littlejohn Letters to the editor are appreciated and can be delivered to
Editors
room 305 or e-mailed to
Lukas Moon Andres Lopez Principal
baitline@coralreef.dadeschools.net. All letters submitted may be
Karla Anderson Guest Ricardo Martinez Adrianne Leal condensed or edited for grammar and spelling. Libelous material
Photographers Alexander Melendez will not be printed.
A&E Editor Bryan Hesser Megan Miranda Information about submitting ads can be obtained by e-mailing
Matthew Martinez Lukas Moon baitline@coralreef.dadeschools.net.
Jillian Roberts Past issues can be viewed at http://crhs.dadeschools.net.
Chiedozie Okafor
Opinions
Uniforms
Coral Reef Sr. High
October 2008 7
To wear or not to wear?
College Applications
My tips to help ease the process
MEGAN MIRANDA
Staff Writer
Five years ago, all public high schools had one thing in
common. When you walked on campus, all the students JASMINE CALIN
were wearing their clothing of choice. Now, fewer high Staff Writer 4. Gather all the information 7. If possible, make visits to the
schools in Miami are allowing their students to dress you will need to fill out schools you are really interested
freely. Among these high schools are Felix Varela, Miami College application time can be
applications: Get your in: Being on the campus will aid
Palmetto, and our very own Coral Reef. both exciting and confusing.
unweighted and weighted GPA, you in your decision on forming
“We are privileged, unlike other schools, because we To help ease the stress, here are my
class percentile, school CEEB an opinion of the university. Ask
get to express ourselves and portray how we feel,” said 10 tips to help you survive through
code (101199), and ACT/ SAT yourself: could I be here for 4
Medical senior Diana Perez. the college application process:
scores and the dates taken all years?
From patched jeans to multicolored tops, Coral Reef together so you can get the
students express themselves through the clothes they 1. Don’t rush: Give yourself
application done quicker without 8. Apply to a couple state schools:
choose to wear. time to write your essays and more
having to wait on this information with a 1270 or higher on the SAT or
“Everyone has their freedom,” said Engineering freshmen importantly give your teachers
from your counselor later. a 28 on the ACT while maintaining
Tyler Kushma. Coming from a school wear he was forced and counselors time to write your
a 3.5 GPA or an IB diploma will
to wear uniforms, Kushma is happy to be able to shed the recommendations. If they have
5. Narrow your colleges down award you 100% paid tuition to a
conformity of uniforms and wear what he wants. to write in a rush or last minute it
to a manageable list: Having a Public Florida University through
However, there are people at Coral Reef who do not either won’t get done or they’ll be
list of 31 colleges to apply to is Bright Futures Scholarships.
shun the idea of uniforms. Some believe they advocate for too angry with you to write anything
ridiculous! But only applying to
school spirit and make the lives of students a bit easier. worth reading! No one wants to
one is no more sensible. Pick a 9. The Early Bird gets the worm:
“If we had uniforms we wouldn’t have to worry about have a recommendation from a mad
number that is good for you but Apply in Both college applications
what to wear,” said Agriscience senior Alina Sabatini. teacher.
not vast. Remember that you and in financial aid,” adds Ms.
Imagine how much time could be saved in the mornings are only going to one school in Harper. Most colleges have a
2. Make your essays about you:
the end. Applying to dozens of rolling application acceptance
This is your one chance to have them
schools in hopes of getting into process so students can send in their
get to know you as a person and not
one may not be too smart… you applications from the start of their
U n ifo rm s : W h a t S tu d e n ts T h in k just a student. Don’t write a report
may end up getting into a college senior year.
or research paper that will bore the
you aren’t particularly fond of.
college acceptance committee in the
10. MOST IMPORTANTLY- Keep
first paragraph. “Follow the prompt”
6. Be sensible with your choices track of all your deadlines. It is
suggests Mrs. Harper, Coral Reef’s
but don’t undersell yourself: very easy to miss a deadline here and
CAP advisor.
Know what colleges you are there but it could be the difference
27% capable of getting into and focus between getting into to college of
3. Figure out which colleges
on those. However, it is okay to your dreams or your safety school.
you’re applying to take the
apply to your dream college, As a last note, it is important to
Common Application: Make life
but it is recommended to have a stay focused during senior year
easy for yourself; if the college takes
safety school. because colleges can choose to
the Common Application that’s one
“UF is no longer a safety school. revoke your acceptance.
less application you have to fill out.
It is getting even harder to get in,” Refer to these tips anytime you
Just make sure you also fill out each
said Mrs. Harper. get stressed and remember, there is
schools respective supplement. Go to
a perfect college for every student.
www.commonapp.org.
73%
A poll taken out of 500 students
Drilling the seas
Brazil has tapped into an money to look for oil and have got it wrong when it
LUKAS MOON
oil reserve off of its shore these offshore drill sites comes to offshore drilling.
Staff Writer
if students didn’t have to spend ten minutes staring sleepily that is the second largest are susceptible to natural The Republicans are pushing
into their closets for an outfit that matches their mood for One of the greatest politicalknown oil source in the disasters. for offshore drilling with few
the day. Instead they would just grab the required uniform and economic problems world. Imagine what large Due to these concerns limits and little regard for the
and maybe use those extra ten minutes for much needed facing the United States oil reserves could be found government should set environment; they also treat
rest. today is its dependence hidden beneath the ocean limits and safety regulations it like the final solution to our
Uniforms would rule out any prejudices or assumptions on foreign oil. Yet it is dependence on foreign
people make based on appearances alone. By wearing well known that oil.
the same thing, no one could mock one another for their vast reserves of The Democrats are
choices in clothing. oil lie underneath fighting against it
“Having uniforms would unify us as a school. We’d be the ocean floor and and want the United
one student body and our lives would be easier. No one can be tapped into States to change to
would judge us because of what we wore,” said Legal and if Americans allow renewable fuel sources
Public Affairs senior Frederick Montgomery. offshore drilling. overnight, something
Uniforms would significantly decrease the chances of The use of limited that will take many
outsiders coming into the school and causing any trouble offshore drilling years to do. We need a
or harm to the students or staff. would be a great plan that will support
“I would love to see students wear uniforms because value to our nation offshore drilling for oil
it would be easier to identify who belongs to the school as it transitions while simultaneously
instead of looking for the ID badges,” said AP Biology into a new phase of increasing research
teacher Laura Vogl. renewable energy. Americans are one of the largest consumers of oil and development of
Coral Reef does not have uniforms and the majority of “[If we drill] we alternate fuel sources.
the students rejoice at the freedom to express themselves won’t have to buy floor around the North on such sites to avoid “I think it will help us until
through the clothing they choose to wear. oil from other countries. It American coast. accidents and to prepare for we can get a better alternative
The people that do support uniforms make strong is something that we have There are many concerns the worst case scenarios. fuel source,” said VPA senior
arguments in their favor, but are they strong enough? to do until we get alternate with such drilling. There is They should limit the areas Christina Persaud.
Will Coral Reef one day adopt the same uniform policies fuel sources,” said Legal the environmental concern: that can be drilled, set strict The United States must
that high schools across Miami-Dade County have? Only junior Charquavis Bell. it would be a nightmare safety regulations, and begin limited offshore drilling
Indeed, it seems that a if one of the drilling sites hold the drilling companies as a means to move on to
time will tell.
temporary solution to our resulted in potentially the accountable for any renewable fuel sources to buy
oil crisis is right on our largest oil spill in world shortcomings in drilling time for the development and
shores. Russia and Cuba history, bringing destruction safety. employment of renewable
have successfully found oil to both human and ocean Unfortunately, it seems energy. Offshore drilling
reserves on the ocean floor. life. It also costs a lot of that both political parties does just that.
Coral Reef Sr. High
October 2008
8 Don’t turn off the
SUBMERGE
light
VANESSA RUEDA
Staff Writer
It’s that time of was the best theme the park has had since he has been
year again where the air becomes just a bit more frightening, attending, this year promises to be the best one yet. With
the dark holds more surprises than ever, and there is more several haunted houses such as “Reflections of Fear,”
to a mirror than meets the eye. At least, that’s how it is at “Once Upon a Nightmare,” “Creatures!,” “Interstellar
this year’s Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Studios Terror,” “Dead Exposure,” and others along with “scare
in Orlando, Florida. The theme is “Reflections of Fear” zones,” areas of the park that are themed specifically to
featuring urban legends such as “Bloody Mary” scare you, such as “Asylum in Wonderland,” “Streets of
among others. Blood,” and “The Path of The Wicked,” to name a
While there have been few. This year has more haunted houses and
rumors that seniors would “scare zones” than years before. For
be attending this event those who have never attended, yes,
as a class trip, Mrs. the rides remain open when
Martinez was you attend.
quick to end This year’s Halloween
them. Horror Nights is sure to send a
“The rumors scare down the spines of students
aren’t true. It’s at Reef that will last a lifetime.
not appropriate for high
school students. If they choose to
go on their own then that’s fine.
There’s alcohol served and it’s just
not something that Coral Reef will
approve.”
While it may not be a class trip,
several seniors still plan on attending.
Among them is Business senior Joel
Perez who will be attending
for the 4th time. Joel says:
“I’ve been going for 4 years.
The Halloween Horror Nights shirt from last year.
It’s a thrill, I enjoy being
scared and I usually go with
a group of 25 people. This
year’s gonna be sick!”
While Joel’s personal view is that “Tales of Terror”
How old is too old to trick-or-treat?
After candy and
CHIEDOZIE OKAFOR trick or treating are
Staff Writer usually associated
with little kids.
“Trick or treat, smell my feet, give “I don’t see
me something good to eat”—a song anything wrong
I will be chanting door-to-door on with being over
Halloween. 17 and trick-or-
Yes, at the age of 17, I will be treating. I know
dressing in a costume along with I’ll be doing it!”
friends to not only play tricks, but to said Legal senior
get some treats. Jean Sebastian
Many people have come to me and Andre.
asked whether I feel that I’m too old Apparently
to participate in the tradition of trick everything
or treating. My response is always concludes to
the same: “NO!” There are no age “different strokes,
limits on traditions and holidays. for different
That’s like someone saying you’re folks.” Everyone
too old to have a Christmas, it’s just feels differently
unheard of! about the so called
Although I feel a certain way about “age limit” for
participation in such a “childish” trick or treating
holiday, I wanted to ask someone on Halloween.
else their opinion. Personally, I feel
“If you’re going with a group of that it’s okay. Why
people then its okay, but if you’re should anyone
17 years old, Thomas Martinez wonders why he shouldn’t be hindered from
alone then yes, you will look foolish,” Trick-or-Treat
said VPA senior Tiffany Shultz. doing something
I somewhat agree with Tiffany. fun all because
Yes, it’ll seem better with a group to see older kids come to my house people claim
of people around my age group, but begging for candy,” said Legal Senior “you’re too old”? My advice is for
if I was alone, is it that bad to want Nichel White. everyone to enjoy everything life has to
candy? Now I know never to trespass offer. We are all here for a short while,
“Thirteen is the last age anyone Nichel’s House on Halloween! Maybe so why not do something that brings
should be trick or treating. It’s so lame there is an age limit to trick or treating. nothing but harmless fun.
YOURSELF 9 Coral Reef Sr. High
October 2008
It’s all about the tricksters
Harmless (and not so harmless) pranks liven up Halloween night
CHAMERE LITTLEJOHN
Staff Writer
Halloween has always been one to have
the best pranks and tricks up its sleeve.
Ironically over the years, things have
changed. It isn’t all about giving candy
anymore, now-a-days it’s about playing a
prank on society.
The old classics are Ding dong ditching
and going to a house to TeePee (toilet
paper) it. However as a new generation is
running the town, new pranks are in order.
To what extreme have people gone to turn
this holiday into what is called fun?
The invention of shaving cream has been
brought from under the sinks and is used
to leave a nice clean shave on someone’s
car. Pumpkin smashing has won an Emmy
and now is the star role in our society.
There’s nothing like seeing the extravagant
pumpkin you took the time to create
decapitated the next morning. Seniors Damien Rigol and Michel Tabbal “Teepee” the barracuda statue as their
Toilet paper still stands strong in spite of Halloween prank.
the competition it faces. The idea of having
to clean up wet toilet paper that has been get the enjoyment of going around trick-or- garages can sometimes have tricks parked
stuck to your tree doesn’t tend to be the treating. There still is a fashion show in the in them.
best feeling you anticipate. streets with hideous costumes, and creative All in all, Halloween is a much anticipated
Stephanie Nicholas, a senior in Criminal ones. holiday that most can’t wait for. There is no
Justice, spoke out against Halloween Advocates for the thrill of Halloween also crime for having fun, just make sure it’s the
pranks, “I think doing pranks are a waste go to the extent of setting up their garages right kind of fun. Tricks are always okay if
of time. I feel the people that do pranks are or homes into a haunted house. This can they are safe and harmless. Is there advice
juvenile.” too be a practical prank because people of any sort? Sure, beware of those talking
Yet Halloween hasn’t completely lost its go to the extreme to get the screams of garages and don’t worry too much, your
whole demeanor. Children (teens too) still the night. Be careful though, those talking candy bags will surely do all the thinking
for you.
Samhain: the night of the dead
Discover the Celtic origin of Halloween and some its traditions and
Samhain, which occurs the next day.
Another Samhain tradition held that
Halloween was a time to eliminate
weaknesses—to do this, a person’s
weaknesses were written on a piece of paper
and then burned away.
Halloween was a also time for fortune-
telling and divination. Children and adults
alike played games on All Hallows Eve to
know their futures.
To test a relationship, two hazelnuts were
burned over a fire side by side. If they stayed
together as they burned, the relationship
would last. If they burst away from each
other, the relationship would break up.
Another small ritual on Halloween night
was to place a perfect ivy leaf into a cup
of water. It was left over night and if in the
morning the leaf remained perfect, without
All Hallows Eve was a time of fortune-telling. Tarot cards were popular means of any spotting, the person who placed the
divining the future. leaf would remain healthy until next
Halloween.
Yet another game was played blindfolded,
STEVEN LI The ancient Celts believed on this night,
with several saucers containing different
Editor-in-Chief the barrier between the living and the dead
was thinnest and their lost friends and things. After the saucers were shuffled
On the 31st of October, the veil between family members could cross over. Usually around, the blindfolded person would reach
the spirit world and ours is thin. That night, in preparation for this visit, an apple is laid out and touch a saucer. If the saucer contained
children and teens alike take to the streets, out: a feast for the dead. water, the person would travel next year; salt
piling their bags with candies. Yet, this These ancestor spirits are believed to meant future wealth; dirt meant illness; a bean
holiday was not always as light-hearted: bring guidance to their families for the foretold poverty; and a ring predicted love.
Halloween originated from the Celtic year to come. In remembrance, candles are Samhain symbolized the dying of autumn
holiday of Samhain, also known as “All placed at the graves of loved ones. At the and the transition into winter. It was a time
Hallows Eve.” stroke of midnight, the spirits cross over for change, to let go negative things from the
Traditionally the festival of Samhain is and all remain in respectful silence. past and start new. So this Halloween, get out
celebrated on the first of November and A Halloween tradition, trick-or-treating those dusty Tarot cards sitting in the drawers,
is considered the Celtic New Year. On the originated from the tradition of going from burn a few hazelnuts, or burn a few candles
night before, the final harvest takes place door-to-door collecting bread, cheese, for the dead, and take part in this ancient
and the dead are honored. and apples in preparation for the Feast of Celtic holiday.
10 Coral Reef Sr. High
The Dark Knight hits the stage
October 2008 A&E
Drama students competed for victory in “Battle of the Classes,” parodying movie hits
This summer’s blockbuster for the parents. Once the reputation, the actors weren’t
hits battled it out Monday, parents have seen all the intimidated.
September 15: theater style. skits, they donated money “You feel some sort of
The “Battle of the Classes” to the class based on which power when you represent on
is a play put on by all the performance they thought of the most famous villains
drama classes: freshman, was the best. At the end, the in Batman,” said VPA junior
sophomore, junior and senior, class that ended up with the Oscar Muñoz, who played
where they create a 6 minute most money won the battle, the “Joker.”
skit based on that year’s which happened to be the After the “Battle of the
theme. sophomores this year. Classes” was over, the
The 2008-2009 school “Battle of the Classes” drama academy moved on
year’s theme was movies, was put together solely by to other productions. The
giving each class a different the students, with the juniors next play performed by the
hit movie. The freshman were directed by Henry Morillo. drama students was called
given Wall-E, the sophomores “The juniors did amazing, “The Brain Wave Plays” on
had to base their skit on I in my opinion they were the October 1st, 2nd and 3rd.
am Legend a movie starring best. We had people rapelling This was their last play for
Will Smith, the juniors skit from the second floor and the 2008 year.
was based on the movie The dead bodies hanging from Starting off 2009, the I.B.
Dark Knight and the seniors the catwalk,” said Morillo. senior drama class will be
reenacted Mama Mia. As for whether it was performing their show in late
Once all the skits were daunting for the juniors to February.
finished they were performed live up to The Dark Knight’s
Jamie Wheeler as Poison Ivy and Oscar Muñoz
as the “Joker”
College isn’t exactly Ivy Tri-M United Way
League benefit concert
MEGAN ZUCKER ALEXANDRA CASTILLA
Staff Writer Staff Writer
While buying my ticket at the box office The Tri-M Benefit Concert is a tradition here at the Reef,
for the movie, College, I knew I would taking place every year since the events of September
not be seeing an Oscar award winning 11th. Each year since 2001, the concert is put on in order
performance. I went in with semi-hopeful to support a different cause. This year the Tri-M Benefit
expectations of the movie, which were Concert supported United Way through donations of five
crushed. What I really got was a waste dollars or more. The officers of the Tri-M Honor Society
of 94 minutes. The plot of the movie and Coral Reef Music organized the event with the teacher
wasn’t the least bit unique and had many sponsorship of Mr. Rose and Mr. Caves.
similarities to the film Superbad. This year, the concert incorporated students from all
“The movie was alright, but sometimes branches of the Visual and Performing Arts Academy,
it got really boring. I would give it 3 including band, chorus, drama, orchestra, and piano
stars,” said Business sophomore, Sheldon students. These students had been auditioning and
Oxendine. rehearsing since September 2nd, and their hard work
When the main character, played by proved to be a success at the benefit. Performances ranged
Drake Bell, gets dumped by his girlfriend from classical, musical theatre, pop, R&B, jazz, Latin
for being too boring, he and his two friends Paul Warren, VPA senior, debates music, and monologues.
decide to visit a local college campus as which college to attend, like the “The show went incredibly well. All the performers did
prospective freshman. The characters in the movie College. an incredible job, and I can honestly say that the officers
three friends, with large resemblances of both Tri-M and Music Club were extremely impressed
to the three characters in Superbad, get with how smoothly everything ran. There really weren’t
recruited to one of the rowdiest fraternities high-schoolers to fight back, becoming the “heroes”
any complications, and it was obvious that the audience
on campus for the weekend and are granted access of the movie.
really enjoyed the show as well,” said Nicole Iduate, Tri-
to the college party scene. “This movie was like American Pie, but 10
M Honor Society President.
Throughout the movie, typical fraternity times better. It was definitely the best movie of the
This year, the concert raised a total of $1,400, the most
brothers put the three high school seniors through summer!” said VPA junior Josh Burstein.
out of all seven years of the concert.
humiliating and disgusting acts of hazing. The During the entire movie, the audience was
movie becomes uninteresting and painfully boring repeatedly disgusted with the many vomit and fecal
within 45 minutes. Although I did let out a few centered humor. Whether or not it was the intention
laughs during the movie, it was mostly at the of the director to continually sicken the audience is
pathetic performances and screenwriting. up to the viewer to decide.
Somehow, the three boys manage to attract the In the end, College was very predictable and was
attention of a few college girls, who not only seem a downright horribly made imitation of Superbad.
to believe that the boys are in college, but the Unless you enjoy watching repetitive vomiting
girls actually really like them. When the fraternity scenes and typical fraternity hazing, I would not
brothers find this out, they turn their antics of recommend anybody to waste their money and
embarrassment up to a greater level, forcing the time on this film.
What?
Spanish Heritage Show spices up October
Coral Reef Sr. High
October 2008
11
VANESSA RUEDA
Staff Writer
Hispanic
Heritage Month
“I’m going crazy!” said Mrs. Merly, the
Hispanic Heritage and National Spanish
senior and Salsa Club president, Karissa
Dieseldorff.
Calendar
Honor Society sponsor, in response to her The club has been rehearsing on
feelings about the upcoming activities for Mondays and Wednesdays in room 263 Oct. 8- Hispanic Country Fair
the month of October. until 4:15 pm. The “big flowy skirts”
In celebration of “Dìa de la Raza,” Karissa referred to hold a lot of symbolism.
(Central courtyard- Lunch)
the day of the discovery of America, on While dancing, the men typically have a Oct. 6 to 17- Hispanic Legacy
October 12th, the Hispanic Heritage club scarf that represents passion. They snap Exhibition
is bringing several events to the student the scarf at the women in a seductive
body in order to appreciate the Hispanic manner while the women use their skirts (Media Center)
culture. The kickoff activity is a Hispanic as a shield and back away from the men. Oct. 16- Hispanic Musical Show
Country fair that will take place in the The skirts are opened and closed as the
courtyard during lunch. ends are flicked out in a frantic manner, (Auditorium- 1:00 PM)
There will be arts and crafts, ceramics, symbolizing the acceptance of the man. Oct. 17- Salsa Competition
newspapers, posters, folk clothes, and In the show, students can expect to see
more, all unique to an individual country. several singing numbers from students (Central courtyard- Lunch)
There will also be a film festival during including Layla Martin, Karol Ramirez, Oct. 28- Spanish Film Festival
school, where three different Hispanic and several others, along with several
films will be shown to foreign language traditional dances such as salsa from Cuba,
(Auditorium- FL Teachers)
students. A salsa competition sponsored tango from Argentina, Plena from Puerto Oct. 31- Faculty & Staff Hispanic
by the Salsa Club will also take place in Rico, and meringue from Dominican
the main courtyard. Republic.
Lunch
Of course, the main event will be the The Magnet dancers are expected to (Media Center)
annual Hispanic Heritage show. Since perform along with the Chamber orchestra,
September, performers have been a select ensemble of 27 students of the
rehearsing for the auditions of the music most advanced orchestra instrumentalists Other activities:
portion of the show. Contrary to previous in VPA. They will be performing a piece • Lectures TBA/ pending
years, there will only be one showing at titled “Margarita” by Manuel Tavarez.
school during 5th period for students and “I enjoy performing in the show because confirmation
teachers, and one showing after school at 7 it allows me to show my Latino heritage,” • Documentaries for School
pm for parents and community members. said Legal senior Eduardo Herrera.
“We’re going to be doing an Afro- The month of October is certain to bring viewing/ TBA
Cuban piece called Aguanile by Marc many surprises and much entertainment, • Presentation of Hispanic
Anthony. It’s a very African very jungle courtesy of Mrs. Merly and the Hispanic
piece. We don’t have costumes yet, but Heritage club.
Personalities/ CRTV Live
we’ll be wearing big flowy skirts,” said IB
12
Balancing it all
Coral Reef Sr. High
October 2008
Leading the masses
Spotlight
Students show remarkable signs of leadership
Kathryn Hemsing talks about balancing ALEXANDER MELENDEZ Whether being President of a club or
academics and sports. Staff Writer volunteering for community service,
students find creative ways to help the
community and make a difference.
LEIDY PEREZ In a school known for its prestigious
the uniforms
Staff Writer and for the
academics, tailored classes, and outstanding
alumni, how is it possible for one student to
season in
Kathryn Hemsing, stand out among the rest? The only answer
general. The
Business senior, is to become a leader of leaders.
team has
is the ideal well It is already hard for one to find the time to
only been
rounded student. stick out with hectic teenage schedules and
permitted
She has successfully the added stress of being a Reef student.
to use one
balanced herself Yet students such as Louisa Santos, Sonul
bus, due to
between sports and Rao, and Mar Echevaria find a way.
the severe
school throughout “It’s called no sleep. I sleep about two
budget cuts
her entire high hours a night and even then it is a constant
of MDCPS.
school years. effort,” said Business senior and class
Along
She has played president Louisa Santos.
with being a
volleyball, softball, With the busy daily schedule she has, it
star player,
badminton, and is no surprise that she only gets about one
she holds
basketball and has fourth of the recommended sleeping time. Sonul Rao, President of Na-
the national
also been involved Why anyone would put themselves tional Honors Society.
community
in the nationally through the added stress seems absurd.
service chair
recognized club Is it to look better on a college resume or
in FBLA.
FBLA. simply to make a difference?
Kathryn
“My favorite “For me, it is not so much about
has done
has always been competition as it is about getting involved.
activities
volleyball, it’s I want to get people aware,” said VPA
such as the
exhilarating because Kathryn Hemsing wears her volleyball jersey senior Mar Echevarria.
March of
you are always on before a game. Mar is the President of “Do Something,”a
Dimes and
the move whether club designed to get students involved in
a walk at
you are touching the the community.
Coral Reef
ball, covering, delivering, or just getting Other students find unique ways to stick
to collect funds for those in need. Kathryn
ready for a hit; but more than anything I out in a highly demanding school like
has placed in nationals with the FBLA and
love it because it’s all about teamwork,” Sonul Rao, President of National Honors
is also a member of the Business Honor
said Kathryn. Society who reached her position in a very
Society and the Spanish Honor Society.
Teamwork is what she mostly refers back creative way.
Kathryn serves as an inspiration to all
to, stating that “the volleyball team is like “I rapped my speech,” said Sonul.
those students at Coral Reef who fear the
a family.” The team is now going through In a school filled with students who are
struggle of balancing the academic part of Mar Echevarria, President of
tough times because of the budget cuts but set to be the future of America, one needs
their student’s life with the extracurricular the “Do Something” club.
they are fundraisings to raise money for to find their own way of sticking out.
activities.
A poet in our midst In Retrospect
Kim Berkley talks about her writing career and how to face criticism by Kim Berkley
EMMA SINGER little harder to take their Sitting on the wall by the beach
Staff Writer criticism,” said Berkley. frontier
Kim is cautious about
Coral Reef is home to a variety sharing her work with Waiting for the warriors of the
of talents, ranging from art to break- others. “I usually tend waves to join me
dancing. VPA senior, Kim Berkley, to keep my writing to
is a talented poet, as well as an up- It’s a good day for a battle, and I’m
myself until I really feel I
and-coming author. like a piece but even then ready to fight
Kim’s inspiration comes from I hesitate about sharing I’m ready to fight
some of her favorite authors, such it. It’s actually much
as J.R.R. Tolkien, Edgar Allan Poe, Standing on the scaffolding hanging
easier for me to accept
as well as her 11th grade English extremely harsh criticism way up high
teacher, Mr. Menasche. from, say, someone online Waiting to grow wings so I can fly
“He taught me more about writing who knows what they’re
in one year than I had learned in far, far away
talking about but doesn’t
five,” said Kim. know me personally than My feet are tired of walking, but I’m
Apart from poetry, Kim is also to hear it from someone ready to go
working on a fantasy titled Three I really care about,” said
of Swords, which deals with I’m ready to go
Berkley.
contemporary issues in a fantasy Still, Kim acknowledges Someone once asked me for a hand-
setting. that criticism is a ful of change
She also writes short stories, which necessary part of writing.
she posts online, at www.deviantart. And in retrospect, I didn’t give him
“At the same time it
com. means a lot more to me enough
Writing is Kim’s emotional outlet; when someone I love I gave him everything I had at the
she unconsciously incorporates praises my work,” said
issues she is going through into her time, everything
Kim Berkley demonstrates her creativity with artistic Kim.
character’s lives. She uses her poetry As to what advice she I gave him nothing
make-up
as a vent for her emotions; some of has for young writers, Watching me walking my warping
it is rather private. poets and novelists alike,
“I’m hoping to make writing my career.
Many teenage writers face harsh criticism path
from friends and family. Kim’s advice is to Kim urges them to listen to their
Getting a real novel of mine on the shelves You never knew who I was, but you
listen to everything, but to not necessarily English teachers and never stop writing
is one of my dreams (and it wouldn’t hurt or reading. guessed
follow their advice.
to have a hit like Harry Potter, either!). So “And above all, never stop dreaming.
hopefully I’ll finish Three of Swords soon.
“If it’s someone close to me or, worse, Flick of my hair and a single step
someone I really look up to (like a famous The best comes in the form of
Who knows, maybe some crazy publisher more and I’m gone
author I like or a good friend who also daydreams and nightmares.”
will decide its good enough to sell!”
happens to be a great writer), then it’s a
Spotlight
“So little time, so much Jammies for Kids
Coral Reef Sr. High
October 2008
13
Michelle Fuentes,
to do” IB Senior, opens up
Alexandra Blake speaks about applying to KARLA ANDERSON
colleges Staff Writer
Michelle Fuentes, an IB senior,
LEIDY PER- was watching Oprah when she saw
EZ that one of the guests from Chicago
started a pajama and duffle bag drive
“Between print- for infants and children up to the age
ing the applica- of eight.
tions online, turn- Realizing that she could change the
ing them in on lives of orphans after that Oprah
time, SAT, ACT, show, Fuentes started a project of
essays, and good her own.
grades this college “I thought this was a cool idea, so
stuff is rather nerve I decided to talk to Mrs. Martinez, as
wrecking,” said IB well as the Children Home Society
senior Alexandra to see what I can do to help,” said
Blake. Fuentes.
Seniors have This task was not as easy as it may
many responsibili- seem. First, she had to contact both
ties and expecta- Seniors, Karla and Claudia Cabreiro and Alexandra Blake the Children Home Society and His Michelle Fuentes, IB Senior, posing with
tions. The college look over college applications. House Children Home to see if they received donations.
deadlines are com- agreed with her idea.
ing near and the on time. “It took over a week for them to
Do Something is a club that recognizes
seniors suffer through managing their time “It is a very hectic time of the year. But call me back, I thought they didn’t like the
amazing young people who see a problem
just right to be able to handle everything. it gives me a lot of pleasure because this idea,” said Fuentes. “I thought they had
in the world and want to tackle it.
“Not only do we have to deal with col- is what it is all about, getting the kids into enough projects helping them already.”
There are boxes located throughout the
lege stuff, but as IB students we have to college,” said IB counselor Ms. Vidaña. But as a matter in fact, both home societies
school: rooms (Ford) 248, (Kirchner) 223,
deal with IB things as well,” said Alexan- Not only are the students in a rush to fin- accepted the idea.
(Scott) 310, (Paz) 307, and (Vargas) 105 for
dra. The essays are one of the section of the ish all the applications, but the teachers and So Fuentes quickly started making flyers
those who would like to make donations.
application that students have the hardest counselors are also pressured to finish their and collected boxes to put in different
“I think its great of her to do something
time with. part of the process. rooms of the school that the students could
like this and show how much she cares
“It isn’t hard, it’s stressful because of the “It is kind of fun, seniors have done their donate.
for those less fortunate than her,” said IB
uncertainty of what to write, your not sup- jobs and this is just what is going to reflect In addition to collecting pajamas, Fuentes
senior Barbara Uchdorff.
posed to be writing to your best friend but all their hard work,” said CAP Advisor Ms. is also collecting hygiene products, like
For those students who donate, some
it isn’t an English paper either.” Harper. toothpaste, toothbrushes, pampers, etc.
teachers are even considering giving extra
Alexandra is applying to eight different The college application and acceptance which would go to the His House Children
credit.
universities and is struggling to keep up process is a very chaotic and time consum- Home.
Fuentes will finish her drive on October
with all the demands that are expected of ing one, but time management is the key “This is a very important project to me,
18th.
her. to successfully finishing it in time. And for and I’m trying to spread the word out to
“Please donate, because these are children
She is one of the many seniors that are most seniors this is what it comes down everyone. I’m hoping to incorporate this
that barely have anything and just the fact
struggling between trying to keep up their to, the acceptance into the college of their project into the new club at school, Do
that they have pajamas will make a big
high school grade point averages and still dreams, even if that means having to go Something.”
difference in their life.”
being able to finish the college applications through such tedious processes.
Our own soldier
Mr. Mahoney after being sent to Germany speaks about his experience in the Air Force
KARLA ANDERSON The military the side of a mountain about halfway up
places a lot of the side and then you go to the top where a
Staff Writer emphasis on castle is. They are both over 400 years old
not accepting and are kept up nicely. It was quite a climb
History teacher, Mr. Mahoney,
delays in up the steps for a total of around 500 feet.
returned from his 15-day trip to
departures and Beautiful!”
Germany.
so things would But of course, not everything was
His trip wasn’t a vacation but in
more than supposed to be fun. The part that he least
fact a job. Last year Mr. Mahoney
likely become enjoyed was actually doing his job. The
was in Kuwait for two months of
tense prior to worst parts are when he had to inspect the
the school year and returned to
takeoff. planes that carried the remains of soldiers
teach in October.
When asked who died in Iraq.
This year, he was sent to the
what he “All movement stops in respect for the
Ramstein Air Base, Germany to
enjoyed the dead as they come through the Port. We are
fulfill his annual tour requirement
most about his constantly reminded that there is a war going
for the Air Force Reserves, which
experience, on and there are very real consequences,”
is done once a year for 15 days.
Mahoney said, said Mahoney, as he reflected back.
“My job was to coordinate
“Visiting the Mr. Mahoney’s annual tour ended two
the movement of passengers
nearby area days earlier than planned due to the several
and cargo on the cargo aircraft
around the hurricanes in the Caribbean.
that the United States Air Force
base as well as “We flew on an Air Force C-17 plane
uses. The specific section that I Mr. Mahoney is happy to be back in school and grading papers after his trip a weekend tour into Dover, Delaware where we spent the
work in is called the Air Terminal to Germany. in Belgium night and we were bused into Philadelphia
Operations Center also known by
with about 11 to catch a commercial flight into Miami the
its acronym of ATOC. We are would call other sections of the Aerial Port others from my next day. We made it into Miami and down
part of several sections in the Aerial Port to service the aircraft.
squadron. We went by tour bus, which was to Homestead Air Reserve Base where we
Squadron,” said Mahoney. Mahoney and his squad would also go full to its 45-passenger capacity. We visited spent the night until we were released on
On a daily basis, Mahoney and his squad out to the planes before they would depart
Brussels and Bruges the next day before Saturday September 6th to go home. This
would go out to the airplanes and check the and ensured that all proper paperwork,
going back to our base. We also visited ended our annual tour for this year.”
cargo and passengers. They would gather cargo, and passengers were on the plane
a town called Idar-Oberstein to sightsee. We are all glad to have Mr. Mahoney
the necessary paperwork and if needed, ready to go.
There is an old church that was built into back in school and proud that he is serving
our country.
14 Coral Reef Sr. High
October 2008
Saving the world, one car at a time
Technology
An emission-free, fuel-efficient “Air Car” is in production
Upcoming
JILLIAN ROBERTS
Staff Writer
Air Car is a great idea, and a big money saver,”
said IB junior Alex Hernandez.
Gadgets
The Air Car, currently being produced in India, EMMA SINGER
With gas prices skyrocketing and the recent will be released in late 2009 or early 2010. Even Staff Writer
obsession with the environment, the cost of though the cars won’t burn any gas, and there are
driving a vehicle has an enormous effect on the no emissions, they still leave carbon footprints. Google Phone
average car owner, and more importantly, on It will take small amount of energy to com- Estimated to cost $179 with a two
our world. press the air, but much less than getting year contract, the Google Phone has a
It is becoming a burden to own a car due to the oil from the ground and burning it in a car. tentative release date of Oct. 22.
outrageous price of gas and a vast amount of air People are now more focused on “going green”
pollution. and saving the environment and Air Cars are the Apple MacBook Touch
Gas prices are constantly increasing. It costs perfect way to “go green.” Using the technology developed for
more per gallon to fill up one’s car than it does Not only will CO2 emissions be greatly re- the iTouch, Apple is making a laptop
to buy a meal at a fast food restaurant. duced, but people will save hundreds, even thou- with a built-in touch screen keyboard.
People are constantly finding themselves leav- sands of dollars on gas.
ing gas stations with full tanks, but empty pock- Only time will tell if Air Cars will become the 160 GIG PS3
ets. In addition, the carbon monoxide emissions key to ending global warming. But for now, they Scheduled for release in Europe in
let out by cars is believed are certainly the best that we have. October, the 160 GIG PS3 is rumored
to be a major contributor to to cost $499.
global warming.
What is America going to
do? The answer lies with the
Air Car.
Instead of being powered
by gas, the Air Car uses a
motor that is driven by com-
pressed air. It gets an equiva-
lent of 100 miles to the gal-
lon, can reach speeds of over
90 miles per hour, and costs
less than $18,000.
It is also environmentally
friendly, because it is emis-
sion free.
“This is the most amazing
thing I have ever heard of!
The last time I filled up my Miles per Gallon in popular cars
tank, it cost me $115. The
A new kind of
Facebook
EMMA SINGER
Staff Writer
Facebook is seen by its 100 million users as a enabled the government to legally be “I think that this is a great idea, and not invading
harmless, fun way to gossip, keep in touch, and able to listen in on telephone calls, read e- our privacy because if we put our
share pictures. But all that is about to change. mail communications, and gave them access to information out there, whether its Facebook, or
The CIA and FBI are teaming up to develop a medical, financial, and legal records. A-Space Myspace, people can see it. That’s why it’s
new kind of Facebook, called A-Space, better will be a combination of all of this information, called the world-wide-web,” said IB freshman
known as Facebook for spies. an immense database with all of our lives on Benjamin Pham.
This new website will enable Secret Service file. A main concern of many spies involved in
personnel to access information without barriers. A-Space has cost America just under five this project is a potential leak, from the inside
Any information written online, filed in a million dollars. This program was put into effect or outside. A spy with conflicting interests could
computer, or discovered by other agents will without the consent of Americans, and without easily transfer this information. Though this has
be posted on A-Space. This website is a place their knowledge. Do taxpayers approve of how been a possibility since the establishment of the
where spies can meet, share information, and their money is being spent? Does it matter? Secret Service, previously, a spy would only
brainstorm about current issues. “I think that it’s okay and worth it, but should have been able to leak information from their
Does A-Space violate our privacy? be really restricted because it has the potential own case/branch. But now, all of the information
“I’m really big on privacy, so this makes me to be used dangerously. But it’s good that our is accessible to any spy.
uncomfortable. I think it really depends on your government can keep us safe,” said IB sophomore Whether or not this new program is morally
perspective,” said VPA sophomore Giovanna Patricia Dranoff. right, it is too late. The program will launch
Barreto. Where will the Secret Service be obtaining this sometime from early October to December.
Technically, A-Space is completely legal. The information? Mainly from other branches of our So remember, when on Facebook, be careful.
Patriot Act, passed by President Bush in 2001, government, but also from internet sources. Someday the FBI may poke you.
Sports
A new beat hits the Reef 07-08 Lacrosse District
Coral Reef Sr. High
October 2008
15
Cuda stomp makes its debut as the new step team
Champions
Can they do it again?
JORDAN FELDMAN
Staff Writer
The Coral Reef Lacrosse team is looking
forward another exceptional year after
going undefeated in the regular season last
school year. The team came out victorious
as District Champions, but was later
defeated at Regionals.
“This year is going to be a big challenge.
We lost all but a few returning varsity
players so were going to have to reinvent
Gerald Grant (president), Michael Davis (vice president),
our style of play,” said IB sophomore, Jake
Tavares Andrews (member) of the Sigma Beta team.
Schiff.
Due to a tough schedule for the 08-09
TRUDY CLARKE 15 girls or guys and five Dufreshe. season, the Coral Reef Lacrosse team has Boy’s lacrosse district championship
Staff Writer alternates. Sigma Beta will perform a long road of hard work and dedication trophy for the year 2008
Although Cuda Stomp at their annual step show ahead of them. Their District opponents
is not guaranteed at all pep hosted at Robert Morgan, include Palmetto, Killian, Western and “I expect to repeat our District Champion
Cuda Stomp is Coral
rallies, we will see Cuda which will be held on Columbus high schools. like last year, even though we lost 9 out
Reef’s brand new step /
Stomp at other shows, December 19th, 2008. With the graduation of many seniors of our 10 starters, we are still the team to
hip- hop dance team.
including the annual Tickets sales start some last year, including Scott Levitt, Michael beat,” said IB senior Michael Franklin.
The clinics for Cuda
Sigma Beta Step Show. time in November for Matthiesen, and Paul Thompson, the Ranked in the top ten in the State of
Stomp were held on
Students will also see $10. team will have to work even harder to Florida for Lacrosse Club teams last
Thursday, September 4th
them at the Dade County The goal of the show defend their status as defending District season, the Barracudas must over-achieve
and Friday September 5th.
Fair and Expo dance is to raise money for the Champions. It will not be easy to replace to match last years success.
Finally, try outs were on
competition groups’ main event which 1st team All-League Joseph Bellando, 2nd
Friday September 12th.
On the other end, Sigma is the college tour. Team All-League Andrew Bekkevold, and
Anyone who was
Beta is a youth group Students interested in 3rd Team All-League Logan Gomez on the
interested in auditioning
sponsored by the Phi Beta performing in the Sigma Coral Reef Lacrosse Team.
was told to come in a
Sigma fraternity. It consists Beta step show can Practicing every week, the team is looking
white t-shirt, black shorts,
of 25 male members and contact Gerald Grant, who to improve their game plans, conditioning,
sneakers, and have their
is dedicated to mentoring is currently the president and most of all, playing as a united team.
hair pulled back out of
youth and keeping men of Sigma Beta. “This is my first year on the Coral Reef
their face. But what were
off the streets. They can “We are a family not Lacrosse team so I have much to learn and
they preparing for?
be seen doing road blocks a team… a group of improve on, but if I work hard I’m sure
The four captains of
in order to raise money. brothers. Expect greatness I’ll see some progress in my game,” said
Cuda Stomp are medical
“Our main focus is to when you hear from Sigma Business and Finance Freshman, Justin
juniors Sarah Girma,
get out to the community, Beta,” said Grant. Garcia.
Estefani Aguiluz, and
last year we performed “Expect greatness” is a Head Coach Alan Bellando, starting his
legal juniors Francesca
at Miami heights quote that both teams hold third year as head Varsity Coach at Coral
Polanco, and
elementary,” said Business deeply in there heart. For Reef High School, will lead the Barracudas.
Stephanie Dufreshe.
senior Gerald Grant. the 2008 – 2009 school Coach Bellando was the recipient of the
On the first day of the
“We are currently year, Reef will hear a lot 2008 Coach of the Year out of Coral Reef’s
clinics, 94 girls and guys
looking for sponsors for from both Sigma Beta and District.
showed up for a team
our team uniforms,” said Cuda Stomp.
that will consist of only
Legal junior Stephanie
Upcoming varsity football games
16 Coral Reef Sr. High
October 2008 High Tide
The Game of Life
Our biology age vs. chronological age: how old are we really?
Alina Sabatini, Agriscience senior, taking the Biological Age quiz online.
MEGAN MIRANDA
Staff Writer
Scientists have theorized that humans have 22 years old. This means that the bodies of
two ages. There is the chronological age, which these students are aging much too quickly.
is the number of years a person has been alive, “It made me realize that I need to take
and the biological age, the body’s true age. more precautions in my life,” said Frederick
Biological age tells how fast the body ages Montgomery, senior in the Legal and Public
based on what is done to it. The more stress, Affairs academy.
health problems, and abuse one puts on their In order to slow down this aging process,
body, the faster they will age. changes must be made in the students’ lives.
David Niven Miller, author of “Grow These changes are made in their eating
Youthful,” has written his book to try and habits, stress levels, sleep habits, and many
help people slow their aging so that they can other factors that contribute to the aging
appreciate the time they have. process.
But how accurate is this theory of Biological For example, someone who chooses to
Age vs. Chronological Age? On his website eat fast food everyday would have an age
www.growyouthful.com, Miller has a Biological significantly higher than someone who eats
Age Test for any person interested in knowing fast food once in a while and instead eats a
their biological age. It calculates the body’s true balanced meal made from home.
age based on answers given to 140 questions The number of hours a person sleeps a
ranging from stress to health to dietary habits. night affects many body functions such as
Several Coral Reef students have taken immunity production.
Miller’s Biological Age Test and they all Other major factors the test considers when
seemed to have different reactions to the ages calculating biological age are how much
the test gave them. Some took the test lightly, alcohol, recreational drugs, nicotine, and
such as Engineering senior Matts Michel. prescription medicine a person consumes.
“[I] didn’t know I’d still be in school,” said The intake of the aforementioned items
Michel, in response to finding out that while significantly affects the body in different
chronologically he is 17 years old, his body has ways. Alcohol, nicotine, and recreational
aged to 24 years old. drugs damage the body’s nerves, organs, and
Others seemed a bit stunned by the results reflexes which adds several months if not
expressing surprise and even a hint of years to the body’s biological age.
apprehension. Jeffery Mondesir, Legal and However, there is no way of telling how
Public Affairs senior, is also 17 years old and much a specific factor will age the body
from the test he found out his body is 21 years because of the numerous other factors that
old. need to be calculated as well.
“I think the test is accurate and it’s scary. It The test and theory are just that, a theory,
feels like its taking years from your life,” said but the point made by both is that people
Mondesir. need to take care of themselves.
This test was taken by seventeen Coral Reef The body is fragile and easily affected by
students, varying from freshmen to seniors. The everything that is done to it, and ultimately,
average biological age for these students was it will affect the life of the person.