Issue 4 by Galleon News

•

In This Issue: News 1, 3 Op/Ed 6, 7 Features 8, 9 Feature Focus 10, 11 Arts & Entertainment 12, 13 Student Life 14, 15 Sports 17, 18, 20

•

1VN 9VHK Boca Raton, FL 33496 MHJLIVVR JVT NHSSLVUUL^ZVUSPUL

•

The Galleon •

•

Volume 30 Issue 4 of Spanish River Community High School’s award-winning student-run newspaper February 2014 galleonnewsonline.com =VS\TL ? 0ZZ\L VM :WHUPZO 9P]LY *VTT\UP[` /PNO :JOVVS»Z H^HYK ^PUUPUN Z[\KLU[ Y\U UL^ZWHWLY :LW[LTILY galleonnewsonline.com

It Ought to Be a Law: River Sophomore Soars to State Legislature Catherine Vianale News Editor This past December, the students in the Gilder Lehrman Academy participated in a competition titled “There Ought to Be a Law!”, a competition that challenges students to invent a unique law that they believe will benefit their fellow state citizens. Out of dozens of applicants, Spanish River sophomore Tyler Sacks was awarded first place with the help o f

history teacher Dominic Ferrauilo. Sacks and Ferrauilo spent a great deal of time creating this law, which deals with the problems associated with panhandling in communities around the state of Florida. “Tyler came up with the idea, and with a lot of work, we were able to frame it into a proposition that we believed judges would take interest in,” Ferraulio said. This past December, State Representative Kevin Rader from

District 81 approved bill from dozens other entries for 2014 Legislative sion. “ I very excited enter this competition, but I never expected it would take m e

Sack’s o f t h e seswas t o

this far,” Sacks said. “From observing people in my community, I noticed that the number of panhandlers around where I lived and that’s how I got the idea. The law is designed to keep people off the streets and ensure the safety of drivers and pedestrians in the state of Florida.” Sacks and Ferrauilo were formally recognized at an awards ceremony on January 29th in the presence of the Palm Beach County Legi s l a - tive Delegation as well

as members of the school board. In addition, Sacks and Ferrauilo accompanied Kevin Rader to the State Capitol and may be asked to testify on behalf of their bill at a formal senate hearing. “This is truly a great honor,” Ferrauilo said. “Knowing that the State Legislature wants to listen to students and their ideas is very inspiring to me and a great reminder to everyone that good ideas can truly make a difference.”

Art By Michela Mugnatto

River remembers: Students design

College scholarship created in honor of Mr. Klager

tiles to commemorate Mr. Klager

Amanda Paige Staff Reporter

Juniors Shelby Standish and Wyatt Lipinski were two of the students who paid five dollars to paint a tile for Mr. Klager’s mural.

One of the many memorial of Klager.

Mural outside Klager’s classroom.

Junior Haley Brecher paints her tile for the mural.

tiles

created

Photos By Carly Mackler

Stewart Klager left a mark on every student he taught as well as everyone at Spanish River. Now, teachers and students are making sure his legacy will live on in the future. History teachers Barbara Jones, and Brett Burkey, as well as Klager’s widow, Liz Klager, have been involved in forming the Klager Scholarship. “I think it is the perfect tribute to Mr. Klager’s legacy,” Jones said. “He was always about reaching out to those students who needed a hand when life threw them a challenge.” Any senior at Spanish River can apply for the Klager Scholarship and the winner will be announced at senior

award night in May. Anyone can donate to the Klager Scholarship: students, parents, colleagues, or friends. If anyone would like to make a donation, all checks should be written to Spanish River with “Klager Scholarship Donation” in the memo line. By instituting the tile making project, the leadership students are honoring Klager’s significant impact on Spanish River. Student Leadership came up with the project so everyone could see the impact Klager made. Students were able to decorate four by four inch ceramic tiles for five dollars each in early January. All of the money from the tiles was added to the Klager Scholarship. The tiles were used to create a mural near Klager’s room in the 8000 building.

February 2014 The Galleon

SH ARK AT TACK

Letter from the Editors February 14th will be one rollercoaster of a day to say the least. For some of us, it means finding a Valentine. For others,it means finding a gift (last-minute) for our Valentine. If you are neither of the above, then we know you are awaiting to find out one thing- your University of Florida decision. The Galleon staff knows you are stressed. So with that, we produced a paper that will let you sit back, relax and hold your worries until the big day. Do you find yourself sleeping in every single class? Check STUDENT LIFE on pg. 15. How much do girls and guys differ? Check the “Battle of the Sexes” in FEATURE FOCUS on pgs. 10-11 for the details. Spanish River athletics has been dominating the waters. Refer to SPORTS on pg. 17 for a full analysis.

s ’ e n i t n e l Va

DAY

-UF decisions -Galleon applications -Four-Day Weekend

-AP Applications -T he Flu -Extended class time on SAT day

Image Courtesy of Google Images

PATHWAYS!

Happy Reading! Josh, Ashley, Kelsey, and Lindsay The Editorial Board

Photos Courtesy of Carly Mackler

Last week, academy students had the privlege of meeting with professionals to discuss their future career .paths.

Barristers Building 1615 Forum Place, Suite 3-B West Palm Beach, FL 33401 Phone: 561.616.333 / Fax: 561.616.3266 E-mail: info@liggiolaw.com / www.liggiolaw.com Insurance Consumer Lawyers Fighting Insurance Company Abuse

“Our central mission is to provide intelligent and comprehensive legal services to each and every client.”

NEWS

February 2014 The Galleon

River students give the gift of reading through book drive Sharks create charity drive to benefit literacy in local shelters, hospitals, and family centers

Kelsey Spyker News Editor Influenced by reading Creating Room to Read: A Story of Hope in the Battle for Global Literacy by John Wood, junior and Fill-A-Room president Julia Katz decided she needed to “create room to read.” According to Katz, The FillA-Room is a national, student run organization. Their mission is to bridge the gap between economic classes by providing the gift of reading to those who normally are not fortunate enough to have access to literature. Therefore, Katz decided to start a book drive with the help of sophomore Rachel Tolces and Calusa Elementary School’s Florida Future Educators of America club. Katz and Tolces

run the Boca Raton chapter of this larger organization. Katz’s friend, Colin Mark, a freshman at Harvard, started a literacy campaign of his own and persuaded her to do the same. “When she [Katz] came to me with this idea, knowing what an avid reader I am, I immediately wanted to be a part of it,” Tolces said. “Books have impacted me so much and have made me who I am today, and being able to bring someone else that opportunity took my interest.” “The concept of taking unwanted books to people

“

who don’t normally have access to them resonated with me,” Katz said. “He encouraged me to start our own chapter, and it has sort of just taken off.” On January 7,2014, students

them, dispersing the books to places in need. The FFEA at Calusa created posters to spread the word about the drive. As an incentive for students to participate, Katz and Tolces offered the class that brings in the most books at the school an ice cream party. “Fill-ARoom was an exceptional book drive that helped assist people to receive the books that they want as well as create a community to support others when needed,” FFEA coordinator Lisa Lorenz said. “It was essential that

The concept of taking unwanted books to people who don’t normally have access to them resonated with me. Julia Katz, 11 at Calusa Elementary started bringing in books of all varieties. The FFEA club then gathers the books while Katz and Tolces collect the

Shout Out!

”

we all pull through to help continue changing lives and encourage reading.” As of January 18, 1,069 books have been collected. The books are delivered to places that do not necessarily always have books on hand. Nursing homes, family centers, hospitals, and homeless shelters are just a few of the places where the books are donated. As the organization expands, Katz hopes to increase the number of people involved. The organization is always looking for more help and monetary donations. For more details go to their website http://fillaroomboca.wix. com/fillaroomboca.

ords of the

Congratulations to Ben Pawliger for placing 13th at the Social Studies Academic Games tournament. He will advance to the state tournament in March.

Boys’ varsity basketball team has a spectacular run. Congratulations to Deb Carter! She took home the Career and Technical Education High School Teacher of the Year Award.

eek

To help students increase literacy and SAT knowledge, the P T SA began posting “must know” words on the marque in the courtyard and in classrooms. Students can turn in their definition guess, and the first 25 names pulled with the correct answers will be the winners. T hese sav vy students will receive a gift card to the school store. “P T SA recognizes that we stress vocab in K-8 but not in high school,” P T SA President Sharyn Schneiderman said. “We felt we needed to advocate on behalf of our children.”

Week of February 3, 2014: Impudent, Indiscriminate, Opaque, Autonomous, and Malevolent Art By Michela Mugnatto

The Galleon 2013-2014 Josh Benrubi Kelsey Spyker Ashley Roth Lindsay Mangines Catherine Vianale Kelsey Spyker

Gianna Doxey Ashley Roth Lauren Villanueva Tedi Raphael Lindsay Mangines

Eliana Landow Alexis Dlugos Shawn Zylberberg Jeremy Freiman Michela Mugnatto Eliana Landow

Carly Mackler Rachel Horn

Michael Benrubi Amanda Paige Sarah Grubman Jack Altman

Alexis Taylor

Suzanne Sanders

Jack Altman

William Latson

The Galleon is a public forum. The Galleon is a member of the Quill and Scroll Honorary Society for High School Journalists, the Columbia Scholastic Press Association, Florida Scholastic Press Association, and the the National Scholastic Press Association.

February 2014 The Galleon

Advertisements

Computer Diagnostic Performance Programming

10,000 Mile

149 B 229

$ 95 Service $100 less than Liqui Moly Synthetic dealership price! Oil w/ Filter 4 Cyl. 6 Cyl. $ 95 Service $ 95 $ 95 $200 less than PLUS PLUS dealership price! COMPLETE MANUFACTURER INSPECTION

Maintenance Service

THE EDGE Go Green Nitrogen

Inflation & Auto Club Program

NITROGEN INFLATION

59 89

Asian & Domestic Vehicles Specializing in from European & Domestic Oil Service Automobiles THE EDGE ADVANTAGE

561-750-6118 4040 NW 1ST AVE â&#x20AC;˘ BOCA RATON

29 89

95 PLUS

INCLUDED: 5 QUARTS OF MOTOR OIL, OIL FILTER, TOP OFF ALL FLUIDS, COMPLETE SAFETY INSPECTION

HOURS: MON-FRI 8AM-5:30PM

24 Hour Towing, Pickup, Delivery & rentals

10,000 Mile Maintenance Service

Liqui Moly Synthetic Oil w/ Filter

COMPLETE BMW CBS INSPECTION RESET MAINT. REMINDER

Auto Repairs Maintenance Extended Warranties

95 PLUS

FA C E - O F F

February 2014 The Galleon

THE BEHAVIOR SPECTRUM Are you BAD TO THE BONE? Do you like to STAY ON THE GOOD SIDE? “The Delinquent” and “The Goody Two-Shoes” may only have one thing in common- they both roam the halls of Spanish River High School. However, they are different in many ways. One student you may only see in juvenile hall. The other student you may only see watching a Netflix show about a kid in juvenile hall. We investigated both sides of the behavior spectrum.

““The Goody Two-Shoes” You drink. I don’t. Why is it such a big deal? I really don’t judge my friends who party, drink, or smoke. Some of the best people I know drink and smoke. However, some of the best people I know don’t. I can sit here and type up all of the facts on why getting drunk before you’re 21 can distract you from being the best student you can be, hurt your brain, or how it can make you do stupid things and cause regret, but the fact of the matter is that it is a teenager’s personal decision on whether or not they decide to partake in partying. As long as my friends are safe and don’t get into trouble, it’s really not that big of a deal to me. I totally understand students that just want to smoke and drink and have a good time. It’s part of high school, but doesn’t have to be part of growing up. I am 18 years old and feel very grown up without smoking or getting drunk. It’s just a life experience that I haven’t experienced yet. Some things that make you grown up are being understanding and kind and just mature, not falling off chairs like my friend on New Year’s Eve. Either way, it’s all good to drink and all good not to drink. But underclassmen, there’s no hurt in waiting if you want to. I’ve gone to parties and met new people, played beer pong without drinking it myself, and had awesome times totally sober. It’s actually really fun to remind your friends what happened the night before, because they don’t remember half of it. You may be wondering why I don’t drink or smoke and if I’ve thought about it, or why, if “it’s really not that big of a deal”, why I don’t do it. It’s a hard question to answer, because I really don’t know. I can say it’s because I want to focus on school and being a good person and making my parents proud, but there are plenty of students at Spanish River who do drink and smoke and are good people! I guess I’ve never been interested enough to start now. I have 3 more years before I can legally drink, and I just feel like I have plenty of time for that. There is no rush.

“The Delinquent”” I’m not a juvenile delinquent- at least not in my own words. Now ask my teachers, father, and parole officer? You might get another story. I’m a senior in high school. I’ve done some grimy stuff, got involved with drugs, the whole nine yards. Obviously school always fell by the wayside. But none of this ever came without consequences, always worse than the offense called for. I’m happy to say that I’ve been making up for what I’ve done and now that I’m almost 18, and can see the light at the end of the high school/teenage tunnel, I have goals in line to be met- one being coming out a better man. My father had a similar upbringing, except that his bad streak came when he arrived in America. He lived the same bad boy lifestyle, only at a later age when it was much more dangerous. I always thought about that, and figured that if I got all that stuff out of my system early on, that I would grow out of it and only look back with fond memories.

Math Tutoring Experts.

$/*(%5$ ¬*(20(75< 75,*2120(75< ¬&$/&8/86 0$7+ 6$7 35(3

Located between Butts Road and Military Trail at: 2240 N.W. 19th Street, Suite #1204, Boca Raton, FL 33431 561-447-0077 www.mathnasium.com/bocaraton images courtesy of google images

February 2014 The Galleon

O p / E D

SOCHI 2014Josh Benrubi Editor-in-Chief “Do you believe in miracles?! YES!” Before we were born, in 1980 specifically, sportscaster Al Michaels screamed these words into the microphone at the 1980 Winter Olympics at Lake Placid, New York. This wasn’t your average Olympics, however. This “miracle” that Michaels was referring to recapped the underdog journey of the United States Men’s Ice Hockey Olympic team in beating the Soviet Union national team, who had won almost every world championship and Olympic tournament since 1954. This historic run by the American team had not only left an imprint on every sports fan’s heart- it left an imprint on our country as a whole. As the 98 events of 2014 Winter Olympics in Sochi, Russia officially begin to hit the ground running this week, I cannot help but realize how sports, especially our national teams, bring about extreme patriotism in our country. Arguably my favorite time of the sports year is when I can watch a sporting event with my friends and not argue over which team is better- we are all USA fans. From sun up to sun down, I love to watch any USA competitor, whether it is curling to swimming to soccer.

From Vince Carter’s veracious slam over a 7’2 player from France in the 2000 Summer Olympics to Landon Donovan’s memorable goal in the 90th minute of the 2010 World Cup to Michael Phelps dominating the water to finish with a record eight gold medals in the 2008 Beijing Games, sports brings us together. It gives us a reason to make the impossible, possible. With the best athletes in the world competing on national television, we have the opportunity to witness history. Something to tell our kids, and our kids to tell our grandkids. As I watch the last few seconds of the United States “Miracle on Ice” in Lake Placid on YouTube, I realize how important sports mean to our country. After asking my dad about that exact moment in time, he was able to repeat to me the play-by-play account of where he was, what he was doing, and even what time of the day it was. These moments characterize who we are as people, and the things that we remember for a lifetime. So with that, I encourage everyone to at least pay a little bit of attention to the upcoming Olympics. I am certainly a fan of every sport that runs on my television, and if I get into it, I will be on the edge of my couch decked out in red, white, and blue. So, tune in this month. You never know if you will have a play-by-play account to tell your children in the future.

FROZEN IN TIME Kelsey Spyker Associate Editor I would like to applaud the creators of the Disney movie Frozen. It was absolutely fantastic. Every scene kept my interest and left me wanting more. Even if you have not seen it, perhaps you know what I am referring to. It was a film for all ages. Children associate with the benevolent snowman, “Olaf”, who warms your heart with every word that comes out of his mouth. Teens connect with “Princess Anna” the rebelling sister, who just wants to love and be loved. Adults identify with the “Queen Elsa”, who just wants the best for her sister. Normally in Disney fairytales, the Princess falls in love with the Prince and within the blink of an eye, the couple gets married and lives happily ever after. In this movie, Anna asked for “Elsa’s” blessing to marry “Prince Hans.” The Queen replied, “You can’t marry a man you just met.” This line is the antithesis of the typical Disney feature. At last, a movie that gives real advice to

O SAY CAN YOU SEE?

Art by michela mugnatto

Kelsey’s Korner

young girls about love. Shout out to “Princess Anna” for representing us freckled folk. I appreciate finally being able to relate to the features of a Disney Princess. All girls don’t look like a certain blonde haired princess with singing mice. OK yes, “Princess Merida” in Brave was somewhat of a ginger, but did not have the freckled face of “Anna.” Disney has done an outstanding job by creating princesses that all girls can relate to. “Anna” is the Princess of today’s times. Although I do not have a sister, I can only imagine the pain “Elsa” felt when she physically hurt her sister. She shut herself out from the world, to protect “Anna” from her powers. I was touched by the love they shared, even after so many years of not speaking to each other. Blood is clearly thicker than water. No man could keep them a part, even “Prince Hans.” (That is all I am going to tell you, no spoilers). “Olaf” was by far my favorite character. He was so stinkin’ cute, I just wanted to reach into the screen and give him a “warm” hug. His ignorance to almost everything kept him innocent, except for knowledge of love. Love was

something this character definitely knew a lot about, even if he was just three spheres of snow. He was willing to “melt” to keep Anna alive. He made the best out of every situation A true character with a pure soul. Throughout the movie and the days after, I had a smile on my face. The advice given by the characters was some of which we should live our lives by. If you have not seen it yet, do yourself a favor and go...like right now. The story wasn’t the only thing that was excellent, the music was exceptional. I have had the soundtrack on a loop and cannot get the catchy tunes out of my head. I particularly connected with the song “Let It Go” and keep the title close in my heart. A line in the song is, “It’s funny how some distance makes everything seem small.” This is honestly such great advice. Fail a test? Ask yourself if it will matter ten years from now. It probably won’t, so “let it go.” If it wasn’t enough that the songs are stuck in my head just from seeing the movie once, now there is a sing-along version? Count me in.

Art by michela mugnatto Images Courtesy of Google Images

Op/ED

February 2014 The Galleon

life reflections with Lindsay DON'T. STOP. "BELIEBING".

Lindsay Mangines Associate Editor I think the life-size cardboard cutout and numerous posters in my room can testify to the fact that I am a fan of Justin Bieber. However, his most recent behavior has caused me to question the true motives and character behind the 19 year old I once viewed as honest and responsible. I can easily see both sides to the situation, but I think I have finally come to my consensus on the matter. The events of the past few months have not caused me to loose faith in Justin’s talent, but in the person that I once thought he was. Every “Belieber” has their own opinion on the matter, but I think it is unjustified to defend his actions, which, pointblank, were wrong. If it is not okay for a regular teenager to egg their neighbor’s house or to be intoxicated while drag racing, then why would it be excusable for Justin Bieber to do it? I understand that many of his fans have a bias towards

him and only want to support him in the matter, but there is no rationalization for defending the wrongdoings of another person just because they are your idol. Yes, it makes sense for a fan to want to stand by Justin and support him during this difficult time, but it’s hard too, to use Bieber’s famous slogan, “believe” in someone who has shown too many signs of bad character. Yet, even while I critique Bieber for what he has been up to lately, my notyet-entirely-dead inner fan still finds him to be an intriguing individual. He has proved himself in the past to have a genuinely good heart, as when he more than fulfilled the last wish of cancer victim Avalanna Ruth, who lost her battle at the age of 6, by not only agreeing to meet with her, but by also becoming a true friend to her. Likewise, his artistic talent, despite popular criticism, never ceases to impress me. I simply feel that I am witnessing yet another teen lose control of their life and focus of their dreams, a result of being exposed to the world of fame too early. Or more possibly, it is not a result of fame, but still seems like this tragedy due to exposure to

this highly impressionable e n v i ronment. Nevert h e l e s s, the stat u s of being a celebrity does not constitute the right to bend laws and get away with it; Bieber should suffer similar consequences to the situation to what any average person in the US would have to endure. The conclusion I have personally come to about Justin Bieber is

that my new perspective of his true life has prompted my hope to diminish not in his career, but in his character. I am disappointed not just in his actions, but also by the realization that celebrity expectations and true personalities do not always coincide. I am still a fan of Beiber’s stage identity and music; I am just no longer an admirer of his evident character.

Art By Michela Mugnatto

Ask Ashley Ashley Roth Associate Editor Each New Year’s Eve marks the end of a year and the beginning of a new one that gives one the opportunity for a fresh, new start when the clock strikes midnight. New Year’s resolutions flood the minds of our eager selves in hopes of getting it right this time. We thrive on the thought of becoming a better person and accomplishing our specific goals. However, in recent years and 2013 in particular I have noticed the abundance of negativity that is accumulated when reflecting on the previous twelve months. Statements such as “2013 sucked” and “can’t wait for 2014” bombard my Twitter newsfeed as the week prior to the new year is underway. I can’t help but wonder, was 2013 really so terrible? I mean sure each month, week, and day are not going to be flawless. There will always be negative events that occur. But when reflecting on three hundred and sixty five days overall, you can’t

allow those negative events to stand out. I always tell myself to focus on the positives, because the negatives will ultimately eat you alive if you let them get to your head. When thinking back on it, 2013 was my favorite year thus far. It was sophomore year; the year when you’re no longer a clueless freshman but not yet old enough to have to worry a b o u t applying for college or handling five AP classes. It was the year that Netflix revolutionized- where my biggest worry was whether Lucas and Peyton would end up together in One Tree Hill. It was the year of camp

reunions, Justin Bieber’s Believe tour, and memorable, noteworthy vacations to different islands and to Spain. Now a month into 2014, I am yet to see what makes this year so thrilling in comparison to the previous one. In my book, 2014 is the year of being a junior struggling to h a n d l e the weight of second semester, a n d thinking ahead, it is also the year of college

applications and acceptances...or rejections. It is the year that I am so swamped with homework and water polo practice that I can hardly find time to study for tests, let alone sit down and

watch a television series on Netflix. It is the year where we are yet to plan a camp reunion, and we begin to lose contact with one another due to our busy schedules. The year where not only Bieber’s tour is over, but he is officially retired and somehow ended up in jail. And is there time for a vacation? Well of course! As long as you are willing to trade a lounge chair on the beach for a trip to multiple college campuses in an attempt to plan out your future. It’s not that I’m completely giving up on this new calendar year’s potential to surprise me and be astounding. It’s just that we are so quick to critique each year without really remembering the good things that came out of it. Before calling 2013 “the worst year of your life,” I believe that it is extremely necessary to reflect on it in depth. Because when December of 2014 rolls around, many will be quick to label it too as “disappointing,” when really, it wasn’t. So, sorry that aliens were not discovered yet if that is what it takes for it to be classified as a “great year.”

Art by michela mugnatto

F e AT U R E S 8 The pressure to be p e r f e c t February 2014 The Galleon

Ashley Roth Features Editor Having an older sibling to face high school first can be both a blessing and a curse in many different situations. On one hand, choosing a schedule full of classes to inflate one’s class rank is simple: use your sibling as a guide. On the other hand, however, succeeding in each of those classes is set at the ultimate caliber due to the fact that said sibling has already mastered the curriculum at River in prior years. “As the youngest of four siblings in my household to pass through River, it is safe to say that I have high standards to live up to,” junior Rachel Katzin said. “I feel pressured to be better because of them due to the underlying reminder that each of them got straight A’s and were extremely involved in extra curricular activities throughout high school.” In other cases, however, the older siblings are

actually the ones to thank for a lack of stress and pressure throughout the course of high school. “Without my older brother and sister I would literally be lost in school,” junior Tiffany Eisner said. “My sister gave me a tour of the school a week before my freshman year and walked through my schedule with me about five times until I got it down. Also, they are both always willing to help me with any math problem, essay or homework question that I may have.” As many can relate, having either an older sibling or friend currently attending college is a huge motivating factor. To have access to the perspective of someone who has already been through one’s current courses in high school is beneficial because they can easily differentiate what matters and what ultimately will not affect you in years to come. “Seeing how far my siblings have come in the past few years has been

nothing but motivating for me,” Eisner said. “Their success not only encourages me to try hard in school but also gives me a better idea of where I will end up going to college.” When selecting a college to apply to and ultimately attend, the students with high-achieving older siblings tend to have an idea of what their parents expect from them due to prior experience in the field. “With two brothers that went to MIT and UF who are now both working on Wall Street, along with a sister at the University of Pennsylvania studying Pre-Dental, it is extremely intimidating to strive to live up to them,” Katzin said. “My parents don’t pressure me on purpose; they just have a preconceived idea of how I should perform based on my siblings’ success stories.” Parents are extremely important when paving one’s pre-college career path, so it is important for students to be recognized as an individual due to the fact that each sibling is different in various ways. This support will ultimately allow students to achieve their full potential while having their sibling as a guide and a motivator rather than an astounding prodigy to live up to. As generations of siblings in each family make their way through high school, teachers begin to recognize familiar faces and repeated last names on their rosters. “All my life I have been recognized

by a myriad of teachers as Chelsea and Jordan’s sister,” Eisner said. “Luckily my teachers all seem to have loved having them as students, which is beneficial to me since they already have an idea of how I will perform in their class and are delighted to recognize a familiar face.” Having older siblings tends to be very beneficial among students in this situation. Having the availability and assistance from people who already know the class in its entirety along with the teachers who teach each subject, there is always someone around to help. “I love having my siblings for school because they all studied such different subjects so there is always someone to help me study for a class or figure out a concept,” Katzin said. “The pressure to do well is there, but it does not change how proud I am of each of them for what they have accomplished.” From the intellectual advice to the superior knowledge that a previous River graduate holds, it is not surprising that younger siblings can feel intimidated or pressured to be perfect in comparison to their brothers and sisters. There are both upsides and downsides to having such connections, but when realizing that it is a golden ticket to a comfortable and successful four years, consider yourself lucky in comparison to some of your current classmates who may be the older siblings themselves. Art By Michela Mugnatto

Bromance

Jonah Hill and Channing Tatum

Sarah Grubman Staff Reporter A “bromance” redefines the definition of a best friend. Like it sounds, a bromance is when two guys are such good friends that it is basically as if they are in

Isaac Broad and Adam Shaprio

a relationship minus a few of the romantic aspects. From watching and playing sports to going out for dinner and a movie, a bromance is an all-encompassing relationship that pushes the boundaries of a normal friendship. Bromances can be spotted all over Spanish River, whether walking from class to class or grabbing a blue pass from Suite A, “bro’s” stick together all the time. Although there are many guys at River who have a bromance with another guy, one of the most notable bromances is between juniors Jesse Jacobsen and Carlos Piedrahita. “We met freshman year through mutual friends and became close during powder puff,” Jacobsen said. “Most kids are not brave enough to try powder puff their freshman year, but we are both kids who dare to be different.” Most people will label two guys having a bromance when they are inseparable and also very similar. “Since we are always together people call him Jesse and me Carlos,” Jacobsen said. “It’s pret-

ty funny.” It is not surprising for bros to do many activities around campus together. Jacobsen and Piedrahita have completed almost every activity River has to offer. From Mr. Olympic and the talent show to the school musical and the track team, this dynamic duo has done it all. Jacobsen and Piedrahita are not the only famous bromance. Seniors Michael Schloss and Carl Gold are well known for their long lasting friendship. They believe one of the keys to their friendship is to do many activities together. “We’re always together,” Gold said. “We played basketball together since middle school and then switched to volleyball sophomore year.” Obviously, bros who stay together last forever, making it more normal for guys in a bromance to be together than apart. “We are a dynamic duo, the ultimate tag team, the definition of a real bromance,” Jacobsen said.

Jesse Jacobsen and Carlos Piedrahita

As high school relationships progress and girlfriends come and go, best friends will always have each other and a bromance can last a lifetime. Photos Courtesy of Google Images Photos By Carly Mackler

Jimmy Fallon and Justin Timberlake

F e AT U R E S

February 2014 The Galleon

May o u r h e a r t s b l e e d o r ange and blue Gia Doxey Commentary “Congratulations! We are pleased to inform you that your application to the University of Florida has been— “Gigi, wake up. Time for school. Happy Valentine’s Day!” Wait, was I dreaming? No, five more minutes, Mom! (Planks back into bed). Valentine’s Day? Ugh, pile it on! Doesn’t the universe know it’s UF decision day? This anxiety-infused day will not only bring loneliness and misery for us bachelorettes and bachelors this February 14th, but it will also determine the collegiate fate for us in-state kids. Oh, and did I mention it’s the day before my 18th birthday? That’s right, I will either be celebrating with family and friends in Gainesville through the weekend, or I’ll be crying straight through, feeding off of sorrow and regret. (Too dramatic? Perhaps, but it’s true!) Here’s how my day will go down: 6:00 AM- Let the anxiety commence! Time to wake up and face the music…no, not the Gator fight song, get out of my head! 6:20 AM- Decide what to wear. Dare I wear an orange and blue shirt? I don’t want to jinx myself! 7:20 AM- Look at the sea of seniors who surround me and pray to God I

have a chance for admission. 7:30 AM- Go through every last detail of that my application in my head. I spell checked everything, right? 7:45 AM- OMG cut it out, you’re so neurotic! Pay attention in class and respect your teachers. You’re still in school, you know! 8:33 AM- The 2nd period bell rings. Try not to notice the

hour… Tough to be a hopeless romantic on a day like this, huh? I hope all the underclassmen and teachers reading this

understand that this is NOT “just another day.” We seniors understand and appreciate the fact that what’s meant to be will be and we will be fine no matter where we end up, tedbut this has been the goal for some of dy bears, chocous since the first day of freshman year, late, and excessive makemaybe even earlier. Things have been out sessions in the hallway. messy, and maybe we could’ve done 9:24 AM- 3rd period bell rings. Do it all a few things differently here or there, over again until…. but these past four years have been 6:00 PM- DUN DUN DUN! Only time motivated by this acceptance letterwill tell my emotional state at this a light at the end of the tunnel we

call high school. The road to G-ville has been one heck of a ride, and the pressure is greater than ever. And for me, I don’t just want that acceptance letter, I NEED that acceptance letter. (Oh, and I mean, the nickname is GVille. My name starts with a “G.” Come on, it’s MY town!) Ugh, anyway…I do have a few back-ups I’m perfectly content with, and I know I have the motivation to succeed wherever I go, but this is my dream. Four years, an above-4.0-average HPA, decent SAT/ACT scores, (I won’t disclose them here, I’ll freak myself out), eight officer positions, Black Box director, five honor societies, proud thespian, Galleon editor (Go Galleon!!), 593 service hours, non-profit freelance writer, double legacy,* a KILLER essay (if I do say so, myself? Thank you, Ms. Kunf and Ms. Sanders for reading it!), AND a UF Summer Journalism Program attendee later... I just hope I make my freshman-self proud, and I pray it was good enough. To all who applied, I wish you the best of luck. We’ve all worked very hard, and I hope the odds are ever in our favor. On this either bitter or hopefully sweet February 14th, 2014, may our hearts bleed orange and blue…. Go Gators! Art By Michela Mugnatto

Stay out of debt and in the sun Jack Altman Staff Reporter Since the minds of Spanish River students are clouded with thoughts of SAT’s, college applications, and all of their classes, it seems like summer vacation is the only solace to look forward to in the coming year. However, as many students know, the days when summer can be a time for hanging out by the pool, going to camp, or just relaxing are long in the past. These days for high school students, summer is just another opportunity to show colleges how much they can do. To many, the summer vacation we should be having, and truthfully the one we deserve, has been diluted into a frenzy of resume fillers.

Senior Grant Mizel enjoys working at Boon’s. Image Courtesy of Google Images

For those who prefer to stay local, college credit programs are offered for free at Florida Atlantic University and Palm Beach State College as a summer dual enrollment opportunity, which can be very helpful. Alternatively, many universities offer summer programs where students can take classes. These programs range from five to ten week periods and the prices can be up to $10,000 for one summer. Marjorie Murstein, River’s college counselor, commented on these choices. “College credit programs are a fantastic way for students to get ahead in school as well as with their class rank and HPA,” Murstein said. “I would recommend these programs to anyone interested, especially ones on college campuses.” For many students, academia takes over for the full school year and by the summer, while wishing to do something productive, students opt for a program outside of the classroom. This is where the ever- so-popular community service trips come in handy. These trips range from domestic community service around the United States to service trips halfway around

the world in rural Thailand. These trips are ironic in themselves, as most cost upward of $10,000 for a couple of weeks just to do community service “While some of these trips are fantastic and can be enlightening experiences, for the most part, they act as pay- and-play trips where you pay thousands of dollars to do some service,” Murstein said. “Colleges are Junior Savannah Shephard kayaking on the Potomac able to see right through all of River during a summer at Georgetown University. that.” expensive, and getting a job over the However, for many it can be an summer can be a useful way to spend enlightening experience. In most of time getting job experience as well as these service projects, students sleep saving money for college. Whether it in the rural areas and with the families is bagging groceries or working at a they are doing the service for. This is parent’s office, anything can be iman amazing and life changing experi- portant and meaningful. ence for many. Internships, which are usually The final, and possibly the most unpaid positions, can be even more intriguing summer activity for many interesting as they are offered in high school students is getting an many different fields of work. From internship position or even a summer law to finance and even medicine, job. This can show the most charac- anyone can apply for an internship in ter out of any of these activities as it many different places. shows hard work and skills necessary The wide range of jobs and internto enter the workforce. ships makes these opportunities very “This could be the most rewarding enticing summer activities. summer choice both literally and figIn need of a little inspiration to uratively,” Murstein said. “Doing a job find the best summer program for over the summer can help students you? Visit www.palmbeach.k12. gain much needed experience that fl.us/SpanishRiverHS/ for a myriad of will be needed for years to come.” options. College is only becoming more Photos By Carly Mackler Photo Courtesy of Savannah Shephard

Feature

February 2014 The Galleon

YOU MIGHT BE A GUY IF... BOY FRIDAYS qYOU KEEP A BOTTLE OF PROMPOSALS ARE A d FRAT n ARE YOUR MAIN PRICOLOGNE IN YOUR CAR/ COMPETITION ORITY

YOU CARE MORE ABOUT YOUR SHOES THAN ANYTHING ELSE

LOCKER/BACKPACK

gTHE GYM EMPLOYEES KNOW YOU BY NAME

WEEKEND WARDROBE j YOUR CONSISTS PRIMARILY OF MUSCLE TANKS

Urbandictionary.com defines “bro code” as “a set of rules meant to be a guideline to live by between Bro’s.” To bro’s all over the country, and specifically here at Spanish River, this is not just a set of rules- it is a way of life. Ever since God handed over the Ten Commandments to Broses, us males have had our own set of guidelines to live by. Therefore, it is important that each of these rules are reviewed. If you are a guy and cannot relate to any of these, I would suggest for you to get out more.

Anonymous Commentary

TL T A

1. A bro shall always follow the “1-3-5” rule in the bathroom. Every other urinal. 2. A bro shall NEVER walk in front of another bro’s T.V. in the middle of an XBOX game. 3. When a good-looking girl walks by, it is a bro’s job to alert every single one of his friend about it. 4. A bro shall not date another bro’s ex. 5. A bro shall not date a girl that another bro has feelings for. 6. When calling dibs, there must be a witness present for any dibs to be valid with bros.

7. Every single bro conversation is subject to “broto-bro confidentiality”. 8. A bro shall never wait at the door for another bro, he should always walk right in the house.

Sex e

9. A bro should ALWAYS realize that you will either end up eating at Chipotle or Ale House every friday night as an underclassmen. 10. If a bro ever needs a wingman, you are obligated to fulfill that role.

then proceed to dress in the clothes they prepared the Shawn Zylberberg night before. Additionally, it’s important to know that Commentary women don’t usually dress to astound guys, but often Rumor has it all these days. That’s basically how I dress up to impress other girls. After they dress up, girls know what girls do everyday from sun up to sun down. have the option of applying a magical dust powder Understanding women could often become a difficult on their skin that makes them shine brighter than the task, but all it takes is keen observation and clever greek god Apollo himself. Women then proceed to the inferences to discover the basics. kitchen table to eat breakfast. Breakfast consists of salad, A woman’s schedule is incredibly important to no questions asked. Women then get onto their magical address. Girls wake up three and a half minutes before carpets and fly to Spanish River High. 5 o’clock AM. They are not a big fan of the “snooze” Once girls arrive at school they gather into little groups button. After waking up, women usually walk to the called “cliques”. These “cliques” are sort of like gangs bathroom and ask the mirror, “Who is fairest of them sprinkled with hate and a dash of love. all?” The mirror sighs and says “You”. Nothing can stop a At noon, girls proceed to eat their lunch, which consists of woman’s self esteem once it reaches its zenith. Women a salad, no questions asked.

ENDER

GENDER

After school, women enjoy a variety of activities including: volleyball, lacrosse, and canoeing down the Spanish River. Once the sun sets, girls become anxious over homework, boys, and which cupcake flavor to choose from after supper. Dinner consists of a salad, no questions asked. After dinner, women tend to stray away from the family into their private caves. Within these caves they chat amongst other girls, watch the "E!"vening news, and help determine their future husbands via People.com. At around 2:02 AM, women prepare their clothes for the next day and tuck themselves into their beautifully woven sleeping bags. Women don’t poop, fart or pee…it’s remarkable. The process becomes a routine and the name for it is, “girls just wanna have fun”.

Focus

February 2014 The Galleon

ntee . age What perme . io s e girl might ompl ist of aw c y u tw c. g n a yo e as s kin ma eld, can horrifi erent retr a y v n e i e i e r f ce t, th hing id diff terp air nd girl orts fi y can e s. nd t n a e a g p the am S me some you d n be in your h econd … a s e n e e s t h s n c at th e tee ry lainto e wha air” ca d how ithin re zan enta a heada ng the sroom, ttest thes at th rful re ust h k w e i r l u t ” st a t cry u a d “I e S a tim o o i h s e , m m y d k v t a a e l m r . s o v h m u on you e se igh . ut ec gm wit s “I ha usly lo k at #1 l, b hey m prom Co eni f ob as th dy, I m y, som ve a w ings a a c o o n i n a r d v o T a y e h h b u i e o i e r t , t m t c t of s r e h are s. ions s u e o r o u p e ry c f g x a s n o v s e m a r n o u t e s a a i l on t e s n t h n you e ys n h her. be eet th pplica e. The plicati the etting r year wors ou ca t ther a o e c t Am d t g a s p g Th im w d y e d u ls ha girl e ano ill brin r ten ially s ollege this t arts. A leavin he ve atura ll. Aft nd an fully, girl, b s o a l n r g t e t h w c i o I . G essen ss of durin eir he mean ne of n ir n ma frie care ge t. T pise and w he oth se 3 h h t e o the d the best read teena t e r h m tr t s es fig ht oo ove r the s id the sed in y mig esent and th ey cry e it. lly still d id fig es, on . Ch ht an your you t the a e r h a , o t e l e h T h l p v a r r ov ot a is b use t m re choo nds. precia be e. If with . ey s late il of s e ma r lunc u mig kn a n h o s o t a i p e t r p m i i t r g ti nsh r firs Do emo bec ily. P f high red fr are. A irl is t ht, n yea y deta eena ate fo , as yo an aw l g g u e o f e u i e o fi c l u T t r t nsid y e r th tress d fam ents nag mes. B the eas they r irls and t r eve later. t the ge gi ater a e s t e e v g co v a i t e e g a e l a e h tt ar belo nal e avin caus th hen ment emb years er wh teen years fi s, th dful a e wor romwit e le W e t b . Y m u a l b r n h n 1 arg ll re ig ve ha hey a sle. I p ith era em we t an ey wi ifics e t rem lly w le sev r has ise. o e Th spec anno arefu batt ss. c n a up nd, c ttles c it the Fitne ear p s a a p i h r b rev sa t LA you ve to n in a cus s i d ha rd ru er, v e wa r, eve N . 2

Of A S

e d r n e

You Might be a Girl if... D Z

THE BARISTA HAS YOUR STARBUCKS ORDER MEMORIZED

VINEYARD VINES AND LILLY PULTIZER MAKE UP MOST OF YOUR CLOSET YOUR CAR IS WHITE AND A JETTA

YOU CONSIDER LEGGINGS PANTS YOU OWN MORE BATH BOMBS THAN LUSH HAS IN STOCK

YOUR CAMERA ROLL IS COMPRISED OF SELFIES AND CLOTHES YOU SAVED FROM ONLINE

der n e B

tage a n d guys lucked out on. somehow, we fall for Lauren Villanueva One word: cramps. No guy will it. Every. Single. Time. sit down and sympathize with you since Commentary Eating is practically an Olympic sport they have not felt the pain, it might as well Boys are lucky. As soon as that X chromoto some guys. The number of burgers and be a myth to them. Accidentally cutting your some paired with a Y chromosome instead of anfries a guy could consume in one day, well, the legs while shaving and having it look like you’ve other X, consider yourself blessed because, let’s face limit does not exist. Which is also totally unfair bebeen attacked by your cat, is not something boys will it, you just got the easier gender role. cause, hello, as completely as caloric as that Burgerfi comprehend. Their legs remain covered with hair from Whether or not you agree with the fact that boys burger is, guys do not gain weight from it. If most girls the time their voice finally dropped and haven’t looked have it easier, you have to realize that being a male even so much as glance at a double cheeseburger with back at smooth legs since. But shaving is not the only comes with specific advantages that the females simply extra bacon, instantly five pounds is gained. That’s not primp a girl does; waxing and plucking are required. do not have. When getting ready for a party, girls have saying we have to avoid cheeseburgers like the plague, When was the last time you heard your guy friends to worry clothes, hair, nails, outfit, and shoes to worry but after devouring, sprinting to the gym is mandamention going to his usual waxer? That’s right, you about. It is not because we are “high maintenance.” It tory to make sure you can still fit in your jeans on don’t. It just does not happen. We can pluck our is because no one, including ourselves, would talk Monday morning. But, thanks to the ever stretchy eyebrows and curse out guys for not having to to a girl who looks completely messy with shirt elastic waistband on basketball shorts, boys do do theirs but it does not change the fact; bestains and dirty hair. But when a guy shows not have the same problem we do. Shocker. ing born a male was the greatest thing up to a party with uncombed hair and The daily pain level that comes assothat will happen in a guy’s life. wrinkled clothing he portrays ciated with being a girl is yet All Art by Michela Mugnatto the “scruff” look another advanGRAPHICS COURTESY OF GOOGLE IMAGES

February 2014 The Galleon

A R T S & E N T E R TA I N M E N T

TUBA PALOOZA Lindsay Mangines Arts and Entertainment Editor Each year, tuba and baritone/ euphonium players unite in various cities across the country to perform together in an event called “Tuba Christmas”. This past December marked the 40th anniversary of the nationally growing event, which allows for these instruments to play the recognizable part in music pieces, instead of the usual background part they are often assigned. Over 50 players from South Florida, ranging from 11 to 68 years old, came to Mizner Park Amphitheatre on December 15th to perform in this event, including four Spanish River Students: seniors Rachel Stern and Ryan Schale and juniors Jason Rahman and Sean Elia.

The director of the tuba studio at Florida Atlantic University, who is also the conductor and organizer of “Tuba Christmas”, invited all local tuba players to join him in the event, including these River students. “I have performed in events like this before, but Tuba Christmas stands out because it brings together many people who enjoy playing while spreading the holiday cheer,” Schale said. Almost everyone dressed up in holiday attire, broke out the Santa hats, and even rigged their instruments with decorative lights. Further rendering the holiday spirit, these musicians performed a variety of Christmas music. “Playing with a band of only tubas and baritones is a very different

Since these instruments are usually in the back of the ensemble, Tuba Christmas is a particularly unique experience. “In this event, the spotlight is put on us,” Elia said. Stern has a particular appreciation for this event. “This is a very unique experience that you cannot get anywhere else,” Stern said. “I have been performing in Tuba Christmas for the past three years and I plan on performing next year as well.”

experience from what most people are used to,” Stern said. “I really enjoyed playing the melody of familiar Christmas and songs.”

art by michela mugnatto Photos courtesy of rachel stern

SELFIE surplus Tedi Raphael Commentary Every second, a baby is born; now imagine how many babies have been born since the launching of Instagram in October of 2010. That’s about 31,536,000 babies, and that’s also how many selfies have been uploaded to the application as of October 17,2013. According to Expandedramblings.com, Kylie Jenner is the celebrity with the most selfies with 451 and counting. Just in case you’ve been living under a rock for the last four years, I’ll tell you that Instagram is a picture and video sharing app; one of many, actually. Snapchat , Vine, and Tumblr are some other common choices. If I had a penny for every time I had to give my opinion on a friend’s selfies, I think I’d have enough to become Scrooge McDuck and drown in gold. The selfies culture has grown to the point of the Oxford Dictionary recognizing it as a noun and adding it to the books.

Even if I could restrain myself from “duck-face”, “bikini-pics”, “#NoFilter’s”, and giving strangers a tour of my house one bathroom mirror at a time, I have fallen victim to the addictive pictures posted to the Selfie Olympics. Again, to all of the uninformed, the Selfie Olympics are probably more interesting than the actual Olympics. It’s a social contest of who can take the wildest bathroom selfies. These have ranged from full beds moved in front of the bathroom mirror to cancer survivors posing with I.V. lines to moving entire rooms into the bathroom to, my favorite, wackos covering themselves in PB&J just for a bit of attention. Some River students love selfies and think they help the takers. “I think selfies are good way to express oneself and help develop a good self esteem,” freshman Adrian Alvarado said. Others would rather observe and not participate. “I think selfies are fine as long as

they aren’t overdone. I personally don’t take selfies but I understand that it’s a trend now,” senior Josh Bouchner said. I see both sides, but there is also the side that thinks they are taken to boost self-esteem and fish for compliments. This side seems hurtful, but there is truth behind almost every rumor. Whether you take a selfie for confidence or to earnestly want to share your beauty, selfies are a great way to get yourself out there. I just beg of you not to over do it, no one wants their dashboards filled with one person’s face all day everyday. It’s no secret that one like on a selfie can boost someone’s self-esteem. So please be nice, and join the Selfie Olympics. Seeing people stuff themselves in cardboard boxes and powered off ovens is the only entertainment I really get.

Art Teacher Katia Martinez strikes a pose with her iPhone.

Senior Sebastian Estrada’s most flattering selfie.

Juniors Jose Valenzuela, Matt Souza, and Daniel Press sport their craziest face.

Photos courtesy of Katia Martinez, Sebastian Estrada, and Jose Valenzuela.

February 2014 The Galleon

A R T S & E N T E R TA I N M E N T

2014: WHAT’S NExt 2014 Topics Celebrities

Lindsay’s “HOTS” Mil

Just

in B

rus

Entertainment

Food

Facebook

iebe

Saint’s Row

Fro

w Bo

Cro

Sports

Style

ics

p lym

cai

Tedi’s “NOTS”

Nike slogan shirts

Sports jerseys

ssF

Ombre hair

ort Sh r hai

Galaxy print

Sayings

Divergent

Books & Movies

The Fault in Our Stars

22 Jump Street

Pre t Liar ty Littl e s

images courtesy of google images

Poetry Slam Rachel Horn Staff Reporter

Taylor Mali

deHoernle Theatre. All River students were welcome to attend with permission from their Spanish River teacher. The Poetry Slam was run was honored to by the Palm Beach Poetry Festival, a be the host of non-profit organization dedicated to the 9th annual fostering the writing, reading, perfor“Poetry Slam” mance, and appreciation of poetry. on Friday A Poetry Slam is a competition J a n u a r y where poets read or recite original 24th dur- work. Famous poets Taylor Mali and ing 4th Glenis Redmond performed at the p e r i o d Slam. Mali expresses himself through in the articulate, accessible, passionate, and C o u n t e s s funny poetry, while Redmond uses her poetry to tell stories from her

life, family, African-American heritage, and sensitive observations from around the world. It is the Festival’s goal to provide a learning opportunity for writers of poetry. “It is important for students to know about poetry because poetry is a form of expression and a way to express how they feel and maybe even inspire them and teach them to be better people,” Creative Wrtiting teacher Lauren Gabay said. “The poetry slam was very interesting because it made you think about serious topics, but with a humorous spin,” senior Alexis Taylor said.

In addition, Gabay encourages students who are interested in writing or would like to be part of the literary magazine “Pieces of Eight” to stop by r o o m 8122 or sign up for a Creative Writing class for next year.

Glenis Redmond art by michela mugnatto photos courtesy of google image

STUDENT LIFE

February 2014 The Galleon

Senioritis: the deadly new virus

Alexis Dlugos Student Life Editor

The definition of a virus, according to Merriam-Webster, is “an infective agent that is able to multiply within a host cell”. High school students are specifically susceptible to catching all types of viruses and diseases. So, even though when the word “senioritis” comes to mind and there is no mental image of dirty tissues thrown all over the room, it is just as contagious. “Senioritis” usually hits the senior class at the beginning of third quarter. The seniors come back with one semester left, most already with acceptance letters, and others counting the hours until theirs arrive. With the thought of college on their brain, there is no time for high school classes. The typical thought going through a senior’s brain is that they are already accepted, so there is no pressure left on achieving those impressive grades. “I didn’t think senioritis could get this bad,” senior England Dubinsky said. Partying beats studying, Netflix outweighs homework, and dates come before projects. However, most stu-

dents and teachers understand the “senioritis” plague, as it is not necessarily supported but is understood. The real problem is when “senioritis” spreads and the underclassmen catch it. Freshmen get a taste of it,

“

tions, dorm organizing, prom shopping, and graduation parties are all shared with the underclassmen and have made a lasting impression on their innocent minds. Since they are next on the totem pole, juniors

I have been dealing with senioritis since freshman year, doctors tell me that it is uncurable until I graduate from high school.

- Jeremy Freiman, 12

sophomores are exposed to it, and juniors witness it first hand. Juniors share the most classes with seniors, and the majority are friends with seniors, so it only makes sense that they are the most prone to this “virus”. The stories of college applica-

”

have the tantalizing carrot swinging in front of their face, only half a year left and it will be their turn to experience it. As “senioritis” is contagious, the top of any upper classmen’s to-do list will read: “Catch up on new Netflix episodes”, “pick a restaurant for Friday

night”, “pick an outfit for this weekend”, and last and most likely least, “catch up on necessary homework”. Like a lot of diseases, the symptoms do not seem so serious. Yet, if left untreated, there can be serious consequences. That acceptance letter that was such a relief is now revoked, causing that back up plan, second choice school to now be the first and only option. For juniors, those three long years of effort is now misspent because of one important semester of slacking off. Sophomores and freshmen have to rewire their brains so they can spend their remaining couple of years aiming for those high grades. “I have been dealing with senioritis since freshman year, doctors tell me that it is uncurable until I graduate from high school”, senior Jeremy Freiman said. At the beginning of the second semester, it is understandable to take a much needed breather, but if Netflix in bed outlasts over the research paper due tomorrow, it is highly recommended that “senioritis” is treated before it gets worse. Art by Michela mugnatto

Valentine’s Day Expectations Sarah Grubman Staff Reporter As the jolly red and green Christmas decorations begin to be taken down and the sparkling confetti of New Year’s is swiped off the floor, it is not long before red hearts, roses and candies begin to take their place. In this case, it is time for Valentine’s Day, what for many may be the happiest day of the year, but for others it is an unwelcome reminder on the current and single status of their love life. At Spanish River, the expectations of flowers in each class period and a beautiful candlelit dinner may not match the reality of the situation: a date with a girl’s two favorite guys, Ben & Jerry, and a heart wrenching night filled with The Notebook and the Titanic. Many believe the expectations of Valentine’s Day are unrealistic and there is too much emphasis on a 24hour time period, which is mostly spent sleeping. “Girls expect a boy to just walk up to them and admit their undying love for them or hand them roses, but that’s not very realistic,” sophomore Sabrina Soto Sugar said. “

Unless you are in a relationship you can pretty much expect to be with your friends or your couch.” Although Valentine’s Day is many times not the dreamy and magical day it is hyped up to be, there are times where what may seem like a scene out of a fairy tale jumps off the page to become someone’s romantic

reality: a day filled with sweet surprises and jaw-dropping gestures. For junior couple Jamie Shear and Daniel Jacobs, Valentine’s Day is not only a day to celebrate their relationship but also their anniversary. “We’ve only had two Valentine’s Days,” Shear said. “The first one was

two weeks after we started talking freshman year; he brought me a little teddy bear and candy at the end of the day and then officially asked me to be his girlfriend.” A year later Jacobs made the day even more special in order celebrate both their one year anniversary and Valentine’s Day. “Last year, he took me to this beautiful little restaurant and we sat outside under a private pavilion with beautiful lights,” Shear said. “During the day he brought me a huge bear and fancy cookies, it was very special.” The reality of Valentine’s Day is different for everyone, but the expected fairy tale ending can ruin more days than it can help. “Too many people make having a perfect Valentine’s Day the key to a good year,” Sugar said. “But instead of focusing on one day, it makes more sense to be realistic and not expect your day to be the end of a romantic Photos by Alexis Dlugos and Kelsey Spyker comedy.”

Expectations vs. Reality

Art by Michela mugnatto

STUDENT LIFE

Zombies roam River complexion that label exhaustion. Aside from poor concentration, reduced memory and alertness, Welcome to Spanish River: those who get 4 hours or less for home of the night owl; where a prolonged period of time had a sleep is often a second class citizen 48 percent greater risk of developand Starbucks coffee cups have ing heart disease later in life. their own zip code. Look inside of It can also lead to a loss of brain tisa classroom at 7:26 a.m. and it is no sue. “Our brains basically start to surprise to find a class full of sleepy break down, if we don’t get the eyed students, dozing off into the early hours. Sleep deprivation has sleep that we need,” AP Psycholobecome common among students gy teacher Kristen Skelton said. “It as more and more have been fight- is so important not just for meming battles with the snooze button. ory, but also because that is when Getting enough sleep is no easy our bodies repair tissues and form task. During the week, students neural connections.” Sleep deprivation, along with stumble out of bed, barely ready to take on the day. For most, the these findings is tied in with menalarm clock sounds by 6:00 a.m., tal illnesses as well. “If someone is literally not sleepa meager six hours after going to bed. In addition to the hectic ing, then their body starts to break schedule of spending hours listen- down,” Skelton said. “It has been ing to teachers, taking tests—only seen in studies done involving to be met with more work after people where they were forced school, it is hard to find the time to to stay up for days and what happened to them was beyond words. fall back asleep [besides in class]. “During the week, I usually get Their frame of mind was completearound five hours, sometimes four,” ly off and they started to hallucijunior Gina Santana said. “It makes nate. There were also distortions me tired all day and it affects my of reality where people thought they were someone else, and they ability to focus.” According to the National Sleep started making up stories about Foundation, teenagers require at how they were say “Peter Pan.” Although some students can get least 9 hours of sleep a night but by on a few hours of sleep, it is not only about 8 percent are getting it. Although this may not pose as a recommended. But it is suggested serious problem, lack of sleep can that those who are having trouble add up and carry some dangerous functioning, seek help from a prohealth effects. The laundry list of fessional to improve sleeping habnegative outcomes goes way be- its. They may look alive, but they yond the dark eye circles and pale are sleep deprived. Eliana Landow Student Life Editor

February 2014 The Galleon

Do you get enough sleep? Test yourself by answering true or false to the following: 1. It’s a struggle to get out of bed in the morning. 2. I feel, tired, irritable, and stressed-out during the week. 3. I often fall asleep watching tv. 4. I often fall asleep in boring lectures, meeting, or in a warm room. 5. I often fall alseep while relaxing after dinner. 6. I often feel drowsy while driving. 7. I often need a nap to get through the day. 8. I have dark circles under my eyes. 9. I often oversleep on weekend mornings. 10. I have trouble concentrating and remembering. If you answered true to two or more of these questions, then you are probably not getting enough sleep. Sleep quiz courtesy of powersleep.org Art By Michaela Mugnato All Art by Michela Mugnatto

starstruck Amanda Paige Commentary

It was just an ordinary Saturday at Town Center mall. I was slowly walking through the mall with my friend, wishing I had more money in my wallet and less sixth graders walking through with Starbucks. My friend and I were on our way out of the mall when this Saturday was no longer ordinary, because our eyes were laid upon Cameron Dallas. Dallas became famous on the popular app known as Vine, where anyone can create videos to be played over and over again. Dallas now has over 2.1 million followers on Vine, 1.5

million on Instagram and over 1 million on Twitter. Ever since I have discovered Cameron Dallas, I fell in love with his personality. He has a strong connection with his fans constantly trying to tweet them and thank them for their support. Back in November, he tweeted me and of course I thought it was the greatest moment ever. My friends would tease me constantly that I would never meet him, and to just get over it. Did I listen? Of course I did not listen, otherwise I would not have written this article. As dorky as it may sound, I created a list of things to do in 2014. Number three on the list: “Meet Cameron Dallas”. I marked that off on the fifth day of 2014. When my friend and I were about twenty feet away, we noticed him and I am almost certain my mouth

dropped. I had no idea he would be in Town Center Mall, let alone in Boca Raton. As he passed by us, I was to afraid to approach him but then in about eight seconds my friend said we were not just going to continue walking out. So we turned around and I yelled “Cameron” since he was about ten feet away. I was extremely nervous and speechless not knowing what to say, but he turned around with a smile on his face. He said hello to us and we asked for a picture with him. Without hesitation he put his arm around me while my friend snapped a couple pictures. As we were saying thank you, I gave him a

hug and a crowd of girls came near realizing it was Cameron Dallas. As my friend and I were walking away, I was in shock. Many adults were asking who he was and we were practically screaming in astonishment of

Photo Courtesy Amanda Paige

what just happened. Now, Dallas is not as well known as Leonardo DiCaprio, but he is to me what Leonardo DiCaprio is to other girls or Mila Kunis to some guys. I can definitely say I was “star struck” for the first time.

February 2014 The Galleon