Issue 1 merged 15 16 by Galleon News

The Galleon

Spanish River Community High School’s award-winning student-run newspaper

Volume XXXII Issue I @The_Galleon galleonnewsonline.com

Overcrowding Issue Upsets Many

Hallways are packed with students as they make their way to lunch.

Rachel Horn News Editor

At the start of the 2015-2016 school year, Spanish River’s lunch period is simply chaotic. Classes are overcrowded and hallways are cramped. In the past, the student body was split in half and there was two 30 minute lunch periods. However, River administrators changed this year’s schedule to allow for only one lunch that lasts 40 minutes. This has resulted in limited seating in the lunch areas and extra long lines to purchase food. “I don’t like the one lunch because it is overcrowded and the line to get food is really long,” sophmore Molly Shiller said. “Standing in the line takes up most of my lunch time.” The tables in the cafeteria and courtyard are limited and are not sufficient to seat 2,000 students. Therefore, students must sit on the

floor or stand while eating. “I personally think combining both lunches was a bad idea and the school should have purchased more tables and benches before school started,” senior Idalis Cintron said. While many students and staff complain about the combined lunch period, others are finding advantages to the change. Since teachers now have the same lunch period as their students, they now have an extra 10 minutes to offer extra help sessions and make up test times. This may reduce the amount of time that both have to stay after school. Additionally, students have 10 extra minutes to socialize with friends or catch up on homework and studying. Since class sizes have increased compared to prior years, the number of desks and chairs are scarce. Classrooms are holding approximately 35 students compared

Cafeteria is congested with students due to one lunch. to approximately 25 students last year. “It is overwhelming to have 35 kids in my classes compared to having only 15 kids in my classes when I was in middle school,” freshman Sabrina Levin said. While it may seem that classes are overpopulated, according to the Class Size Reduction Amendment, River’s class sizes are not exceeding the maximum capacity. “The Class Size Reduction Amendment states that for all core classes, the number of students per class must average 25 students or less,” said Assistant Principal Ira Sollod. “River’s class size averages 23.5 students per class.” “It was so crowded in my Legal Aspects class on the first day that I had to sit on the floor with my friend because there were not enough seats in the class,” sophmore Hannah

Weinstein said. Another challenge that students and faculty must face is the overcrowded hallways. Students walking from the 1000 building to their classes in the 8000 building are facing congested hallways and difficulty getting to class on time. “I go from Skelton’s room in the 1000 builiding to Lampman’s room in the 8000 building and the hallways are so crowded, I was late to my class two days in a row,” sophomore Nicole Chandeck said. “Now I walk outside the buildings to avoid the crowds and make it to class on time.” It is clear that during this school year, River students will have the opportunity to learn to embrace change. Change is constant and being able to adapt will be a skill that will allow students to succeed. PHOTOS BY ERIN TURNER

Portables Closing Causes Relocation of Classes Laney Ciaccio News Editor

Over the summer, administrators decided that all of the portables were to be shut down. Therefore, classes once taught in those portables were relocated. “They’re not that safe anymore,” Assistant Principal Doug Markwardt said. “Before anybody gets hurt out there we figured the best thing to do was to remove them.” The school had to replace the portable floors multiple times and there were problems with termites along with other creatures finding their way into the classrooms. Another problem was that the sidewalks and walkways did not reach all the way to some of the portables, so when it rained mud and dirt would be brought into the classroom. “I had a horrible problem with ants,” English 1 Pre-AP teacher Ms. Lewis recalls. “Ants would bite my kids, and

chew on me. Vermin were the number one problem out in the portables.” However, there were some advantages to teaching and having class out in the portables. Portables

The portables now sit unused.

are much smaller than traditional classrooms and can hold less students. This allows for more one on one contact which benefits both the students and teachers. Portables are

in a way their own building, which allows teachers and students to be as loud as they want without worrying about disrupting other classrooms around them.

“The portables were more of a personal advantage because they were closer to the buses and my locker,” said sophmore Theresa Dixon. With the portables closing, many teachers lost their rooms and had to relocate into classrooms in other

buildings. Along with that, some rooms had to be transformed into classrooms. For example, the room near the Shark Shop that used to be a custodial break room. Still, there are not enough spots for each teacher to have his or her own room. This means that some teachers have to “float” from classroom to classroom, and teach in a different room each hour. “I don’t think it affects how they teach, but I know it is very aggravating having to move from room to room,” Markwardt said. “They know there was no choice and they are making the best of it. They’re doing a great job.” As of today, there are no plans on what to do with the area the portables are in or what to do with the portables. It is up to the district to decide. PHOTO BY ERIN TURNER

THE GALLEON SEPTEMBER 2015

SHARK ATTACK

Welcome Back to River!

Back to school. It is normally a time for meeting new people and learning new things – a time when things are fresh and fun. We were excited for this year and bursting with anticipation. Our staff came up with some great stories and were ready to go…..until our computers died (see the story on page 3). It was time to get creative and make adjustments. Just like life, things go wrong and you make the best of it. We relocated and came up with the best paper possible. On pages 10 and 11, check out how River is making strides in the LGBQT Community. On page 15, learn about the new Opportunity Room. On page 17, find out how much sports at River actually cost…you might be surprised. We hope you enjoy this first endeavor, it definitely made our staff closer!

NEWS

THE GALLEON SEPTEMBER 2015

Shark Makeover Brightens Courtyard Lilian Zhang

appreciate it, as well as deface it by the summer to be patched up, but sticking their gum and/or club flyers students became so enthusiastic that Staff Reporter on it.” decorating the shark and unveiling it In the courtyard stands one of When students colorfully painted at the senior pep-rally was discussed the most recognizable symbols of the shark it was not a Senior Class to be a potential Senior tradition. River. During the last school year, the shark received a striking makeover of orange, green, and purple galore. Art students from last year had noted the rather sad, peeling paint, and gumcovered condition that the shark was in. “It was in need of some serious love,” Art teacher Katia Martinez said. After receiving permission from Principal William Latson, the students painted the shark with vibrant patterns inspired by the artist Romero Britto who utilizes aspects of pop art and graffiti painting in his works. Courtyard shark was redone over the summer vacation. “The art students decided to go However, the Senior Class with vivid and bright colors to draw prank but a statement to treat the of 2015 planned on having the shark attention to the shark,” Martinez said. statue with respect. repainted and fixed as their gift to “It is such an icon on campus, and Initially, the plan was to paint the the school. many students walk by and do not shark and then send it out during

Guidance Joins the World of Social Media Kent Burkman Staff Reporter

Spanish River’s Guidance Office has decided to step out of its comfort zone this year. Head Guidance Counselor Melissa Loyacona created a Twitter account for students. “The Twitter account has been great,” Loyacona said. “ More kids sign up for college visits now than in the past. We’ve also had a lot more inquiries about scholarship applications.” Loyacona started the Twitter account to find a way to reach students’ needs directly in addition to contacting the parents. “I interviewed students to see what social media they use most and it seemed Twitter was the one,” Loyacona said. While all counselors can tweet on the account, Loyacona does most of the tweeting. Tweets from @RiverGuidance include information about things like scholarships, college visit dates, and community service opportunities. “The Twitter account has been very helpful,” Senior Arthur Menendez said. “Social media has become the best way to keep informed. The guidance counselors are now more accessible to the whole student body.” Many of the followers have decided to use the account to their

advantage and tweet questions to their respective counselor. “Tweeting with my guidance counselor is more efficient for simple questions since it’s hard to make an appointment,” Menendez said. “But when it comes to important, longer discussion topics, meeting with the counselor is better.” Students and Parents can follow the guidance Twitter account @RiverGuidance. River’s Guidance Office also has a Facebook page where the same information is offered for parents and tudents. Students and Parents can also follow the Guidance Office on Facebook . “I have found most of River parents prefer Facebook over Twitter,” Loyacona said. “So we stay connected using both apps.” In addition to adding social media accounts, River’s Guidance Office also started accepting walk in appointments during lunch this year, allowing counselors more time to meet the students’ needs with less frustration and avoid classroom disruptions. “Guidance has made some big changes this year, adding their own Twitter account and allowing walk-ins during lunch to help more students,” Menendez said “They are now more accessible than ever and that’s what a lot of students need.”

AP Art History teacher Barbra Boerstler, took charge of sending the shark to be redone. The Class of 1995 had the shark made as their farewell gift and Boerstler was Senior Class advisor at the time and knew that the shark held a great deal of sentimental value. As a result Boerstler made a decision with the Class of 2015 to redo the shark. “It needed to be completely restored to its original glory in order to maintain its noble spot as the symbol of Spanish River,” Boerstler said. So three weeks after its makeover, the shark took a restoration vacation. Currently, the shark boasts its fresh coat of paint, the first new exterior it has had since the Class of 2008’s restoration gift. “I must say he looks pretty handsome and amazing,” Boerstler said.

PHOTOs BY ERIN TURNER

Follow @riverguidance on Twitter & Spanish River High School guidance on Facebook PHOTO COURTESY GOOGLE IMAGES

Technical Difficulties Affect Newspaper Production Kent Burkman Staff Reporter

The Galleon staff has had a small delay with the release of its first issue. During the assembly of the first issue, the design program the staff uses to layout and create the papers crashed. During an IT program update on The Galleon’s computers, the county server would not allow any of the seven computers to download “InDesign”, a program used to format the newspaper. The Galleon is currently relocated to Mr. Belcher’s Graphic Design classroom. “Mr. Belcher has been a blessing to the entire Galleon Staff” Galleon Editor-in-chief Amanda Paige,” said. It is very kind of him to let us take over his room during lunch and during our class period.” “As of right now, we are about two weeks behind schedule,” Galleon Advisor Suzanne Delaney said. “It sets us back because we now have to make all of our new templates from scratch.”

However, the relocation for the first issue has turned our class into an immersion course on InDesign. “We are now dealing with the specifics of each page such as margins and grids,” Paige said, “The process is making every one of us InDesign experts.” The staff’s positive attitude and persistence throughout the entire ordeal has not only increased efficiency but also made the challenge of publishing an awardwinning paper from borrowed computers more enjoyable for everyone. “The fact we have such a great, strong staff made me confident we could get through this hurdle and get this paper out to our readers as soon as possible,” Delaney said. The date for Galleon computers to be back online is unclear. The staff hopes the technical issues to be in order for issue two. Thank you for your patience.

TheGalleon 2015-2016 Co-Editor-in-Chief Michael Benrubi Amanda Paige

Associate Editors Rachel Horn Sydney Luntz

Technical Editor Jack Altman

News Editors Rachel Horn Laney Ciaccio

Features Editors Noah Zylberberg Max Kozlowski

Feature Focus Editor Sydney Luntz

Entertainment Editors Amanda Paige Natalia Galicza Jared Goodman Zoe Brand

Sports Editors Michael Benrubi Justin Haber Bradley Thomas

Art/Photography Editors Aryana Mugnatto Erin Turner

Staff Reporters Burak Pala Ethan Weinstein Kent Burkman

Face Off Editor Jack Altman

Adviser Suzanne Delaney

Principal

William Latson

THE GALLEON SEPTEMBER 2015

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THE GALLEON SEPTEMBER 2015

DRINK IN THE FREEDOM Jack Altman Commentary For decades a debate has been waged in The United States that hinges on the core values of this country. No, it is not about abortion or taxes. This debate is in a league of its own. America’s drinking age has changed three times during its short history. In 1919, the eighteenth amendment to the Constitution prohibited the sale and consumption of alcohol in the United States enacting the thirteen-year period known as “prohibition.” Unfortunately, this ban led to a widespread increase in organized crime in which citizens were selling illegal alcohol on America’s black market. Eventually our government caught on and ratified the twenty-first amendment, thereby reinstating legal alcohol consumption with a drinking age of twen-

ty-one and over. For about forty years, the national drinking age remained the status quo until in the late 1960’s when twenty-nine states voted to lower their drinking age to eighteen. Now this is where the contention begins. Proponents of lowering the drinking age argue that if a citizen can fight for their country in the army and vote for their President, then surely they are mature and responsible enough to legally drink alcohol. In addition, there are practical economic arguments for lowering the drinking age. The current average tax on liquor is $6.50 per gallon. Including three more years of taxpayers into the liquor market could double tax revenue according to The Economist. This could help bolster a struggling U.S. economy. In opposition are those who cite the early 60’s drinking age reduc-

tion as a complete failure. It is true that during those years, the number of driving accidents due to intoxication increased by 70% according to The Scattergood Foundation. These people argue that it is irresponsible and dangerous to allow those as young as eighteen to freely consume alcohol. It has often been said that eighteen year olds are not mature enough to drink responsibly, an argument easily combatted by proponents of the age-reduction. The opposition does have another issue and that is the current U.S. driving age. Thirty-four states in the U.S. have driving ages of just sixteen. In many ways, this played a major role in the horrific effects of the 1960’s drinking age change. That is why this issue is so difficult. Where does the country draw the line? At least in the near future, it seems as if drinking responsibly will be a continuing problem for

American teenagers and even for some adults. While the drinking age may not seem to be the most pertinent political issue, its implications have been dramatic throughout history. Look at Switzerland, one of the wealthiest countries in the world. Their drinking age is sixteen. Maybe we should take a hint.

SHARK POLL SHOULD THE DRINKING AGE BE LOWERED?

48% NO

KEEP IT UP Brett Burkey Social Studies Dept. Chair During the late 1960s and early 1970s, nearly every state in America lowered their drinking age from 21 to 18. This led to a huge increase in drunken driving deaths. According to the National Institute of Health, in the mid-1970s 60% of all traffic fatalities were alcohol related. Over two-thirds of traffic accidents involving 16-20 year olds were tied to drinking. In response to the drunk-driving epidemic, the age was returned to 21 in 1984. The law worked as drunken driving accidents have been reduced by 50%. According to the NHI, the greatest proportion of this drop has occurred among 16-20 year olds falling from 75% of all accidents in the 1970s to 37% in 2013. Denied the legal opportunity to drink and then drive, teens today have turned to texting while driving to satisfy the compulsion to cancel the future. According to a study by

Cohen Children’s Medical Center and Virginia Tech University, more than 3000 teenagers die each year from texting while driving surpassing the 2700 that die from driving drunk. More than 50% of teens polled admit to texting while driving. Lower the drinking age to 18 and it is reasonable to conclude that teenage fatalities would spike to levels never imagined before. It is not a mark of national pride that we send our teenage boys and girls off to die in war. The voting age has been 18 since 1972 and adults between ages 18-24 are the least likely to vote election after election. There’s no evidence to suggest that lowering the drinking age would produce any positive outcome either.

YES 52%

BRING IT DOWN Carmen Santana Mathematics Teacher So you are old enough to go off to war, train to defend one of the greatest nations in the world, but you can’t have a drink of alcohol? Does this sound right? Well, something is definitely wrong here. Drinking has been a social activity for hundreds of years. As parents are the ones who teach children how to be responsible citizens and participate in our society, it is the responsibili of the parens to introduce alcohol to heir kids. If parents can teach children how to properly consume alcohol without becoming completely intoxicated at a younger age, we wouldn’t have many of the issues we face today. Those young adults who are kept from alcoholic beverages until the age of 21 either have them behind their parents’ backs or illegally at parties where alcohol shouldn’t be. Without proper adult guidance and supervision, these teenagers are drinking in excess and driving drunk; they are causing many accidents and much grief when a life is lost as a result of irresponsible actions. A responsible parent teaches their children how to consume and handle alcohol so that when these kids enter a social scenario where

alcohol is present, they will be more responsible in their consumption and their choices. This takes us right into the legal drinking age of young adults. With proper social introduction to alcohol, teenagers would be more responsible in their consumption; and lowering the legal age to drink would just be the logical thing that needs to be done. We entrust our young children with making huge decisions, such as whether or not they will lead a life of service to our nation, yet we don’t entrust them with making a decision as to how much alcohol to consume. If protecting and serving our nation is an act of maturity, and we entrust our youth to make such a life-changing decision at the young age of 18, how can’t we trust them to make the right choice when it comes to alcohol? Both of these decisions will have a huge impact on society. Why can’t we as nation then come to terms with the fact that more positive may come when we entrust our youth to do the right thing and choose wisely and more responsibly when it comes to alcohol? With great choice comes great responsibility. We as a society may be helping in the development of more responsible social drinkers by lowering the legal drinking age.

THE GALLEON SEPTEMBER 2015

OP/ED

Sounding of the Horn

Rachel Horn

Associate Editor This generation of teens have a saying: “pics or it didn’t happen”. Teens are compelled to document and post every moment of their lives on social media. By using Instagram, Snapchat, Facebook, or Twitter, they instantaneously share each of their good or bad experiences with the the cyber world. When teens make a plan for the weekend, they not only look forward to a fun time away from school, but also to their next opportunity to post pictures and inform the world that they are having fun and making the best use of their weekend. We all know that friend who woke up at 5am to get to the beach in time to watch the sunrise. While one can’t deny that seeing the sunrise is a beautiful and serene activity, you can be sure that this friend relishes in the idea that when everyone logs on to Instagram that morning, it will be their spectacular photos that will be viewed and envied. I have seen hundreds of photos on social media of delicious looking desserts or appetizing entrees. It’s funny that we feel the need to let everyone know that we have access to something delicious.

Another favorite picture to post is standing in front of the funky painted walls in Wynwood, a trendy Miami town. I doubt that everyone who takes the hour drive to Wynwood to pose in front of the countless walls are art enthusiasts, but I do know that the thought of posting those pictures on social media could definitely inspire anyone to battle the traffic. I am surely guilty of this posting obsession. If anyone follows me on any of the many social media apps, they would see that I am just as interested in posting photos of my experiences as the next guy. My e n t i r e summer was chronicled on Facebook and pretty much every fun activity I am in involved with is surely documented in cyber space. I also enjoy seeing all the pictures posted by my friends and family. Even though the communication is not happening face to face, somehow I feel very connected with my social media universe. I feel that this is just what our generation does. You can equate this to going to the drive-in during the 50’s, wearing tie dye in the 60’s and 70’s and listening to Madonna in the 80’s. Teens like to have fun and now in the 21st century not only can they have fun, but they can let all their followers know what a blast they are having. Art by Erin Turner

Sincerely, Sydney Sydney Luntz Associate Editor

I do not care if you own a record player and I do not care if you own every single vinyl by The Beatles since Please Please Me was released in 1963. Chances are, you are a phony. This ubiquitous desire to be the individual with the “best music taste like, ever” has seriously become a problem. Oh, you love Kanye West? Does your interest in him expand from “Gold Digger” and “Flashing Lights,” because I will be sure to bet that you could not even name a song other than “All Falls Down” off West’s first album, The College Dropout. However, I do not doubt that you pray to “Yeezus” every night. I am not saying to be a real fan that you have to know each menial detail about an artist’s life; trust me, I do not care about West’s favorite ice cream flavor or shoe size, but I do care that you respect an artist enough to enjoy more than just popular singles that are listened to, for a “cool factor.” I guess this whole fake fan epidemic has really gotten the best of me, because I can not even sit in a room and hear someone yelp “did you hear this new song?” Meanwhile, the song is four years old and recorded by their

so called, “favorite artist like, ever.” Now, I am not trying to become the most hated female at River, but I am telling you, there is nothing more rewarding than seeing your ideal music artist grow from their old jams, to their new jams, to their biggest hits. I have grown up with a father who has submerged me in music from N.W.A to Coldplay, from Drake to Ben Howard, and from Kendrick Lamar to Snow Patrol. Yes, my dad listens to rap, and yes my dad has made me the dogmatic music critic I am today. My music taste ranges from songs that I would not dare show my mother, to songs that I could easily cry to in a matter of seconds. Oh well though, because these are the artists I support, through all the good hits...and not so good hits. Point is, music is not a trend, it is not something to merely be invested in because it is the new totally awesome song you have to love, music is an art form. Take me as pretentious, I do not mind, but we all have aspects in life that we are passionate about. I am sure in the vast halls of River that some of you rightfully agree, because you too, are passionate fans. All in all, I am sick and tired of all these phonies.

E B A N N A W

Art by Aryana Mugnatto

Ramblings of a Redhead Amanda Paige Editor-in-Chief

One word that I omit from my vocabulary is average (unless I am referring to the mean in a Statistics problem). When I hear the word average, I think of a person in their thirties commuting to a nine to five job, and arriving home to a microwavable dinner. Now, there is nothing awful about this type of life, but it is not exceptional. I can confidently assume everyone reading this has answered that tough and awkward question ‘What is one word that describes you?’ Well, surely your word was not average (and if it was, I am about to give you a new word). Ambitious. Ambition is the desire to be successful, powerful, or famous. This word can describe just about anyone,

which is why average should go to the grave. I always use ambitious as my response to the dreadful question and I am proud to say I have a lot of ambition. Although I have yet to ultimately decide what I want to pursue as my career, I have narrowed it down to a few options: the next Bill O’Reilly, a Presidential campaign manager, a big-time lawyer (what? Like it’s hard?), or the Editor-in-Chief of Vogue (move over Anna Wintour). I might as well hop on to the Video Music Award’s stage and say I’m running

for President in 2036. Reactions from peers range from very blasé to “I would consider a backup plan”. When anyone discourages me or does not believe I can pursue one of those careers, I become c o n fused. I think to myself, “ Would you prefer my goal to be working in retail or selling paper (I mean unless I get to work for Michael Scott in Scranton)?” I realize I may sound like a five year old saying ‘I want to

be a princess when I grow up’ (hello, Prince Harry), but there are so many possibilities that limiting myself before I graduate high school would be foolish. Another goal of mine is to have eight homes. Of course, (being my ambitious self ) I have already planned the locations: New York City, the Hamptons, Vail, Boston, Palo Alto, Palm Beach, London, and last but not least, Paris. You say crazy, I say ambitious. Even though my lofty career goals and the desire for various homes seem way out of reach to some people (and I do not see it as an easy accomplishment either), why limit myself to average when I can do so much better? Obviously, not everyone has to have such elaborate or extravagant ambitions but if someone has goals, encourage them. It is better to be ambitious than average. Art by Aryana Mugnatto

OP/ED

THE GALLEON SEPTEMBER 2015

Mike’s Mind Michael Benrubi Editor-in-Chief

When the name Tom Brady comes to mind, what do you think about? Some may think about Super Bowl wins, others his charming looks and personality. Recently what has come to mind for me, and many sports fanatics across the nation is the ludicrous, yet infamous DeflateGate scandal. Following the NFL 2014 AFC Championship game in which the New England Patriots defeated the Indianapolis Colts 45-7, accusations were flying that the Patriots were using deflated balls during the game. A team using deflated balls usually has the advantage as the ball becomes easier to grip, throw, and catch, amongst other benefits. The NFL found some of the balls used in the first half to have been underinflated by about two psi (pounds per square inch) under the league minimum. The NFL

began an investigation into the accusations and decided to punish the Patriots and Tom Brady following a 243page report called the Wells Report. The team agreed to a $1 million fine and lost their first round pick in the 2016 draft and their fourth round pick in the 2017 draft. Brady denied any wrongdoing and was initially suspended for four games without pay. Just recently, the suspension was lifted after he appealed the case to federal court. So, all that craze for a minor deflation of footballs? Think about what the media has been covering for the past 9 months. There are much more important things that should be broadcasted on CNN than Tom Brady walking out of court wearing a $1,000 suit knowing that he still won the Super Bowl and will still be a first ballot hall of famer. With domes-

tic violence being such a significant issue not only in sports, but also in society as a whole, the NFL overinflated the issue of DeflateGate, while quickly trying to bury the Ray Rice incident under the turf. Sports fans like myself spent a long summer seeing this pathetic news story covered by virtually every sports and news network. It was comical seeing the people who were interested and engaged in such a pointless and minor controversy. I personally don’t care if the balls were underinflated by a few psi, as if I know what psi is or that there was even a league mandate on the inflation of footballs. First off, the Patriots were a better team than the Colts. They didn’t just win, but they completely dominated, beating them by 38 points. Also, Tom Brady using

footballs with a psi of 13 is the same Tom Brady using footballs with a psi of 11. If he is throwing for 3 touchdowns like he did in this game, it was not because of slightly deflated footballs. As a lifelong Miami Dolphins fan, it would be easy for me to want to believe that Brady gained an unfair advantage from the deflation of the footballs. However looking back at all that he has accomplished throughout his illustrious career, you either have to believe that he has always been a cheater or respect him for his greatness. I have chosen to admire his legacy even if he may have taken some shortcuts along the way. You can decide whether you are going to respect Brady and the Patriots or look at them as cheaters, but either way the DeflateGate controversy was a complete waste of time and an embarrassment for the NFL and sports as a whole. Art by Erin Turner

THE GALLEON SEPTEMBER 2015

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

River Never Goes Out of Style Jared Goodman

Arts & Entertainment Editor As any upper classman would tell you, Spanish River sure has changed over the past couple of years. Not only are there new teachers and new hours, but a prominent change may just be the school’s aesthetic changes. Some may call River the ugliest corner in all of Boca Raton, and many students and staff are working hard to prove otherwise. In 2014, the art department decided to paint the hallways a shade of gray to contrast from the bland, white color it once was. All those students who spend their time in class looking up at the ceiling would have noticed that some teachers have chosen to decorate their ceiling tiles by getting the tiles painted to represent different things such as their alma mater. The pillars in the courtyard have also received a paint job, going from all white to both white and blue. Periodically, the art department will also paint murals around campus, such as the one in front of the 1000 building. The shark in the courtyard has also received a touch up of fresh paint during the summer. The student with the keenest of eyes would have also noticed that the

benches around the courtyard have also received a fresh coat of blue paint along with little white sharks on the sides. Making River look great is not solely in the hands of the art department, as many other teachers have decided to take matters into their own hands. AP World History teacher Wendy Zeitz decided to paint her room a light green, as opposed to the white paint usually seen in other classrooms. Additionally, she also had junior Erin Turner draw Buddhas on the wall to go along with the class’s history theme. Science teachers Corrine Jobe and Nicole Susil have also opted to give their rooms a fresh coat of paint as well. “The paintings in teachers classrooms promote a happier, less stressful environment,” junior Michael Bucca said. Some students believe that these improvements are not enough to make them jump out of bed in the morning to go see their beautiful school. Some would like to see gardens planted, while others would simply just like to focus on academics. “I appreciate the work put into the school,” freshman Alex Luce said. “I hope that by my senior year even more of the school will be painted,”

A painted ceiling tile of a tiger done by an AP Environmental Science student for an endangered species project.

A Buddha painted by Erin Turner in Zietz’s AP World History class room.

An African Elephant painted on a ceiling tile in Susil’s AP Environmental Science room.

PHOTOS BY ERIN TURNER

CUTTING CLASS FOR CONCERTS Sophomore, Alicia Hellman poses with The Neighbourhood drummer, Mikey Margott, after the concert.

Sophomores, Alicia Hellman and Devon Granet, take a photo before entering The Neighbourhood concert.

Natalia Galicza

Arts & Entertainment Editor Summer is concert season, and as school begins so do some great lineups. With homework and adequate sleep to worry about, some would wonder whether or not going to concerts on school nights is truly worth it. Despite having to get up for class the next morning, sometimes the temptation to see one’s favorite artists live is too strong. “I think it’s worth it because a concert is a memorable experience that sticks with you for a long time, and students shouldn’t be denied that experience just because they might be a little tired the next day,” sophomore Ali Dusinberre said. “It was tough getting up in the morning after the Lana Del Rey concert, and I was a little more exhausted than usual but it was nothing unbearable.” Memorable experience or not, the struggle of waking up after what might be only a few hours of sleep is intolerable for some. “I don’t think I would do it again unless it was for an artist that I absolutely felt I needed to see,” sophomore Nadine Tbaili said. “I was so exhausted the next day I didn’t even go to school so I could recuperate.” Regardless of when the concert is meant to end, it is most likely going to be a late night. “I probably got about five to six hours of sleep,” Dusinberre said. Missing out on a possible two to three hours of sleep is drastic for stu-

dents who are expected to focus the next day. “I came back from my concert at about one in the morning,” junior Viktor Knurov said. “I probably got around six hours of sleep that night.” Attending school while feeling dead-tired can negatively affect your school work as well. When one is not focused and has seven classes to sit through, work quality decreases and retaining information learned in class that day is difficult. “I was exhausted and had trouble concentrating after the J Cole concert,” senior Aaron Rissman said. “It didn’t help that I had basketball after school the next day.” For those who are considering going to a concert on a school night, remember a few things to ensure a less stressful aftermath. “Make sure all of your assignments are done, you’re organized, and prepare breakfast for the next day,” sophomore Ghaby Almeida said. “The time you come home is crucial for how you feel the next day.” Some students tend to skip school the next day due to exhaustion, doing so can leave you a day behind in all of your classes and means you neglect a full days worth of education. Keeping all of this in mind, one should also prioritize having the best experience possible. “Make sure you are prepared for the next day, and just enjoy the concert,” sophomore Alicia Hellman said. “Don’t let worrying about consequences take away from the experience.” PHOTOS COURTESY OF ALICIA HELLMAN

THE GALLEON SEPTEMBER 2015

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

STUDENTS LEVEL UP

Zoe Brand

Arts & Entertainment Editor

Growing up as teenagers in the age of technology has created the foundation for us to become easily distracted young adults. From our cellphones, social media, and varying forms of entertainment, there are so many ways we can delay the completion of a task at hand. One piece of technology that has evolved through the decades and is still prevalent in the life of teenagers today is video games. Beginning with bulky, home consoles with simple graphics to compact, home consoles with high definition images, video games have had a long history of captivating peoples’ attention and consuming large amounts of time. Students at Spanish River have witnessed this addiction to gaming firsthand, spending hours at a time communicating with the virtual

Brandon Michaels spends an community and trying to beat a average of six to eight hours each level. As tempting as homework day playing video games at home, and studying may sound, many leaving limited teens need an time to do his activity to keep school work. them sane from “I do think it all of the stress [video gaming] high school can has affected inflict on them. my grades, but Those students after all of the who use video endless nights gaming as a with no sleep stress relieving and endless days activity are at without feeling risk for a gaming the sun’s rays on addiction. my skin, I can A video game proudly say that addiction can I have served have serious my gaming repercussions that do not only Benny Dinner playing Destiny in his room. c o m m u n i t y ,” Michaels said. involve dry eyes Another obvious consequence and muscle soreness. Lack of time that may result from excessive focused on academics can damage gaming is a lack of sleep. Studies a video game addicts GPA. Senior

have shown that sleep is crucial for high school students. When gaming keeps a teen up past a reasonable bedtime, unhealthy habits begin to form. Senior Benny Dinner admits to having a fair share of late nights and even allnighters playing video games that leave him sleep deprived when the school day begins. “It’s an escape,” explains Dinner. “I find that the more responsibilities I have, the more appealing they [video games] look.” Although technology and distractions are everywhere, a line must be drawn before our personal escapes turn in to obsessions. An innocent video game session is likely to turn in to an addiction if boundaries are not set. Even if you can reach a new record or beat a level, without boundaries, both GPAs and health could suffer.

PHOTO COURTESY OF LIZ DINNER IMAGES COURTESY OF GOOGLE IMAGES

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FEATURE FEATURE

THE GALLEON THE THE GALLEON GALLEON SEPTEMBER 2015 SEPTEMBER SEPTEMBER 2015 2015

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The The TruTh: TruTh: There There Is Is More Than Just Him and Her

IT’S TIME TO

SYDNEY LUNTZ SYDNEY LUNTZ Feature Focus Editor Feature Focus Editor

It is time for understanding to surpass for listening to surIt isjudgments, time for understanding accusations,for and for respect to pass judgments, listening to sursurpass what is defined “normal. pass accusations, and forasrespect to” When introduced to the concept” surpass what is defined as “normal. of a transgender lack When introducedperson, to themany concept thea knowledge this idenof transgenderregarding person, many lack tity. knowledge If the ignorance andthis dismissthe regarding idenal of Ifpersonal opinionand ends, those tity. the ignorance dismisswith prejudice against transgender al of personal opinion ends, those people can finally cometransgender to an equal with prejudice against understanding as to why to this people can finally come anperson equal chooses to live the understanding as toway whythey thisdo. person Former student, Tyler chooses to River live the way they do.Ford, acknowledges key in coming Former Riverthe student, Tyler Ford, out with a newthe identity, acknowledges key in“Everyone coming is different, and everyone has differout with a new identity, “Everyone ent circumstances, ” Ford has said.differ“The is different, and everyone general advice I can give anyone, is ent circumstances, ” Ford said. “The safety comes first. ” give anyone, is general advice I can Keeping this in”mind, Ford elabosafety comes first. rates on thethis various unsafe Keeping in mind, Fordcircumelabostances a transgender person can be rates on the various unsafe circumsurrounded by. Whether it iscan unacstances a transgender person be cepting family surrounded by.members, Whether itunacceptis unacing friends, or simply poorunaccepttiming, it cepting family members, is not a “requirement” as a transgening friends, or simply poor timing, it der person to reveal an as is not a “requirement” as aidentity transgensoonperson as possible. der to reveal an identity as think they have to come soon“Many as possible. out “Many in order for their identity to be think they have to come considered but identity it is not to a reout in ordervalid, for their be quirement to come considered valid, butout, it ”isFord not asaid. re“Your only job to take of yourquirement to is come out,care ” Ford said. self, and look your safety. ” “Your only jobout is tofor take care of yourWhen it comes to any personal self, and look out for your safety.” change, is an entire Whennoit matter comes iftoitany personal identity, or a new change, nosolely matter if it perspective, is an entire Ford urges this personal change to identity, or solely a new perspective, be invested in a passion. Ford urges this personal change to I was high school, I was be “When invested in a in passion. in “When a musicI was troupe andschool, performing in high I was wasa what loved to doperforming the most,” in musicI troupe and Ford what said. “Performing kept mo-” was I loved to do thememost, tivated to “Performing get through my do Ford said. keptlife; metomoanything that will make you happy, tivated to get through my life; to do and makethat youwill feelmake okay you where you anything happy, are at that you time,feel is super important and make okay where you for mental ” super important are at that health. time, is alsohealth. finds peace in an array of forFord mental ” menial work. Something as array simple Ford also finds peace in an of as coloring keeps Ford in aaspleasant menial work. Something simple state of mind dueFord to the as coloring keeps in arepetitive pleasant activity motions. state ofand mind due to the repetitive With themotions. emergence of Caitlyn activity and Jenner’s many are Withidentity, the emergence of curious Caitlyn to see if her identity aidsare thecurious transJenner’s identity, many to see if her identity aids the trans-

gender community over time. “I have no opinion ontime. what any gender community over other person does with “I have no opinion on their what life, any” Ford said. “I think it’s great other person does with their that life,” Caitlynsaid. Jenner can live life that she Ford “I think it’s the great wants, and I don’t think Caitlyn Jenner can live theany life one she person and can speak the transgenwants, I don’tforthink any one der community, myself.” person can speakincluding for the transgenyears, Fordincluding has beenmyself. spreadderFor community, ” ingFor the word about transgender years, Ford has been spreadpeople instill the ing the and wordtrying abouttotransgender knowledge humans should people and all trying to instill the have, regardless their choice of knowledge all of humans should identity or opinions on other idenhave, regardless of their choice of tities. identity or opinions on other iden“I have this innate desire for peotities. ple“I to understand ” Ford said. have this innateme, desire for peo“When I grew up there nosaid. one ple to understand me,”was Ford in the media towas looknoupone to “When I grew for up me there as athe role model, in media forI never me tosaw lookanyone up to who represented my saw ideas, and as a role model, I never anyone that was really hard my for me because who represented ideas, and I never a hard placefor forme me in the that wassaw really because Iworld. never” saw a place for me in the This world. ” feeling of misplacement is the This foundation Ford’s desire feeling offor misplacement is to befoundation proactive for in the transgenthe Ford’s desire derbe community. the overto proactive Despite in the transgenwhelming negativity der community. Despite swarming the overtransgender negativity people, whelming swarming Ford wants the transgender comtransgender people, munity to bethe able to see thatcomthe Ford wants transgender identity tothey choose is possible munity be able to see that the and is common. The ubiquity of identity they choose is possible transgender people not someand is common. Theis ubiquity of thing to be ignored, transgender peoplebut is something not someto be acknowledged. thing to be ignored, but something “It is important to listen, listen to be acknowledged. to the “It is pronouns important ato transgender listen, listen person to be ” Ford to the wants pronouns a called, transgender said. “Follow educate person wantsthrough to be and called, ” Ford yourself, it should notand beeducate on the said. “Follow through trans person to educate everyone yourself, it should not be on the around them,to listen to transgender trans person educate everyone people them, about listen their to thoughts and around transgender their needs. ” their thoughts and people about has theirFord needs. ” become a paragon of strength in the transgender comFord has become a paragon of munity and continues to establish strength in the transgender comthe connection and understandmunity and continues to establish ing between the transgender and the connection and understandnon-transgender minds. Without ing between the transgender and the brave and proactive motives non-transgender minds. Without engrained in transgender people the brave and proactive motives like Ford, in wetransgender would immensely engrained people sufferFord, from we a syndrome of a disillulike would immensely sionedfrom status quo. suffer a syndrome of a disillusioned status quo.

MICHAEL BENRUBI MICHAEL MICHAEL BENRUBI BENRUBI Editor-in-Chief Editor-in-Chief Editor-in-Chief

FEATURING

TYLER FORD

Tyler tyler FeaTuring Featuring tyler Ford Ford Featuring Featuring Tyler tyler Ford FeaTuring

Spanish River’s Alliance Club meets Club Spanish River’s Alliance Spanish River’s Alliance Club meets Spanish River’s Alliance Club meets meets Spanish River’s Alliance Club meets every 1st &every 3rd Monday of each month 1st & 3rd Monday of each every 1st Monday of month every 1st & & 3rd 3rd Monday of each each month month every 1st & 3rd Monday of each month during lunchduring in room 4102 lunch in room 4102 lunch during lunch in room room 4102 4102 during lunchduring in room 4102in Gay,Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, and Bisexual, Trasngender Gay, Lesbian, and Trasngender Lesbian, Bisexual, and Transgender Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, and Trasngender Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, and Trasngender Gay,(GLBT) Lesbian, Bisexual, and Trasngender Hotline: 1-888-843-4564 (GLBT) Hotline: 1-888-843-4564 (GLBT) Hotline: 1-888-843-4564 (GLBT) Hotline: (GLBT) Hotline: 1-888-843-4564 1-888-843-4564 (GLBT) Hotline: 1-888-843-4564

This past year has been aa definite This past year has been This past year has been a definite definite success for the LGBQT community. success for the LGBQT community. success for community the LGBQT includes community. The LGBQT not The LGBQT community includes not The LGBQT community includes not only lesbians, gays, and bisexuals, but only lesbians, gays, and bisexuals, but only lesbians, gays, and bisexuals, but also transgender people. Not long also transgender people. Not also transgender people. Not long long ago, transgender people were not ago, transgender people were not ago, transgender people were not recognized as a part of mainstream recognized as a part of mainstream recognized as a part of mainstream society. However, recently with the society. However, recently with society. However, recentlypeople with the the growth of LGBQT support, are growth of LGBQT support, people are growth of LGBQT support, people are beginning to respect and accept them beginning to respect and accept them beginning to respect and accept them for who they are. Despite the increasfor who they Despite the for who they are. are. Despite the increasincreasing awareness, there is no specific feding awareness, there is no specific feding awareness, there is no specific federal law that addresses transgender eral law that addresses transgender eral law that addresses transgender students in schools. students in students in schools. schools. According to the Williams Institute, According to the Williams According to the Williams Institute, Institute, the number of transgender people the number of transgender people the number of transgender people nationwide is roughly 700,000. There nationwide is roughly 700,000. There nationwide is roughly 700,000. There are some students at River who have are some students at River who have are some students at River who have made the transition themselves. An made the transition themselves. An made the transition themselves. An anonymous River student shared anonymous River student shared anonymous River student shared some thoughts about her experience some thoughts about her experience some thoughts about her experience here and how the school has done aa here and how the school has done here and how the school has done a great job of allowing her to feel safe great job of allowing her to feel safe great job of allowing her to feel safe and accepted. and accepted. and “My accepted. experience at River with this “My experience at River with this “My experience at River with this transition has been very positive, ” she transition has been very positive, ” she transition hasonly been veryatpositive, ”for she said. “I have been school 7 said. “I have only been at school for 7 said. “I have only been at school for 7 days as who I feel I am, but I have been days as who I feel I am, but I have been days as who I feel I am, but I have been treated equally and II hope that contintreated equally treated equally and and I hope hope that that contincontinues. ” ues. ” ues.This ” student has received gratitude This student has gratitude This student has received received gratitude and love from River teachers. One forand love from River teachers. One forand love from River teachers. One former teacher gave her a hug on the first mer teacher gave her a hug on the first mer teacher gave her a hug on the first day of school and another wrote her aa day of school and another wrote her day of school and another wrote her a card assuring that she would always card assuring that she would always card assuring that she would always be safe and welcome in her classroom be safe and welcome in her classroom be safe and welcome in her classroom (like any student of any identity would (like any student of any identity would (like any student of any identity would be). be). be). Going through this difficult transGoing through this transGoing can through this difficult difficult transformation interfere with one’s reformation can interfere with one’s reformation can interfere with one’s responsibilities as a student. However, sponsibilities as a student. However, sponsibilities as only a student. However, this student has seen positive imthis student has only seen positive imthis student has only seen positive impacts from her experience. pacts from her experience. pacts from her experience. “I now feel less general anxiety and “I now feel less general anxiety and “Ifocus now on feelmy less general anxiety and can work instead of focuscan focus on my work instead of focuscan focus on my work instead of focusing on transitioning, ”” she said. ing on transitioning, she said. ingThe onstudent transitioning, ” she said. hopes that in the future, The student hopes that future, The studentteens hopes that in in the the will future, transgender everywhere be transgender teens everywhere will transgender teens everywhere will be be

accepted by their families, peers, and accepted by accepted by their their families, families, peers, peers, and and schools. schools. schools. Principal William Latson has done his Principal William Latson has done his Principal William Latson has done his best to make sure that the staff and the best to make sure that the staff and the best to as make sure that the staff and and the school aa whole understand are school as whole understand and are school as a whole understand and are aware of the difficulties that many transaware of the difficulties that many transaware of the difficulties that many transgender students face. This year and the gender students face. This year and gender students face. has Thisdone year training and the the previous year, Latson previous year, Latson has done training previous year, Latson has done training with his staff to make sure they know with his staff to make sure they know with his staff to make sure they know how to make the transition easier for how to make the transition easier how to make the transition easier for for them. them. them. “If you are treating the student as aa “If you are treating the student as “If you are treating the student as a student, what many transgender people student, what many transgender people student, what many transgender people are looking for is equality, ”” Latson said. are looking for is equality, Latson said. are looking for is equality, ” Latson said. “So in the classrooms and around cam“So in the classrooms and around cam“So in the classrooms and around campus, we do not do anything differently. ”” pus, we do do differently. pus,The weinitial do not notchallenge do anything anything differently. ” that Latson and The initial challenge that Latson and The initial challenge that Latson and the school faced was the issue of baththe school faced was the issue of baththe school faced was the issue of bathrooms. There is limited protocol in rooms. There is limited protocol in rooms. There is limited protocol in the district regarding this issue. When the district regarding this issue. When the district regarding this issue. When Latson contacted the district last year, Latson contacted the district last year, Latson contacted the district last year, he found out only one other school has he found out only one other school has he found out only oneasother school has contacted the district well. After stucontacted the district as well. After stucontacted the district as well. After students approached him about it this year dents approached him about it this year dents approached him about it this year and showed him legislation from Califorand showed him legislation from Califorand showed him legislation from California and Colorado for him to review, the nia and Colorado for him to review, the nia and Colorado for him to review, the problem was quickly solved. He has folproblem was quickly solved. He has folproblem was quickly solved. He has followed the same protocol that allows for lowed the same protocol that allows for lowed the samebathroom protocol that allows for an appropriate that students an appropriate bathroom that students an appropriate bathroom that students could use without receiving any ridicule could use without receiving any ridicule could use without receiving any ridicule or comments from those who are not or comments from those who are not or comments from those whoand areRiver not understanding. Now, Latson understanding. Now, Latson and River understanding. Now, Latson and River have set an example for other schools have have set set an an example example for for other other schools schools

and these schools call him for advice and and these these schools schools call call him him for for advice advice on how to handle related issues. on how to handle related issues. on how to handle related issues. “Students come in all forms, shapes “Students “Students come come in in all all forms, forms, shapes shapes and sizes so we want them all to be and and sizes sizes so so we we want want them them all all to to be be comfortable and happy here, ” Latcomfortable and happy here, ” Latcomfortable and happy here,” Latson said. “The community is really son son said. said. “The “The community community is is really really going to have to learn and respect going going to to have have to to learn learn and and respect respect transgender people, but as aa school transgender transgender people, people, but but as as a school school II believe we are doing a great job of believe we are doing a great I believe we are doing a great job job of of that. ” that. ” that.”

Translife line: 1-877-565-8860 Translife line: Translife line: 1-877-565-8860 Translife line: 1-877-565-8860 1-877-565-8860 Translife line: 1-877-565-8860 Art by Erin Turner Art by Erin Turner by ErinImages Turner Photo courtesyArt of Google Photo courtesy of Google Images Photo courtesy of Google Photo courtesy of JonesImages Crow Photo courtesy of Jones Crow Photo courtesy of Jones Crow

Features

THE GALLEON SEPTEMBER 2015

Teachers’ Travels Ethan Weinstein Staff Reporter

Dwyer award winner and AP Human Geography teacher, Kevin Turner, and AP English teacher, Bettina Hoffman, both got the chance to explore foreign countries this past summer. Kevin Turner adventured through Myanmar for 12 days. The country formerly known as Burma was closed off to the public between 1962 and 2011 during the country’s military rule. Due to this, Turner felt fortunate to be a part of the small minority able to say they have experienced the country’s unique culture. During his trip, Turner stayed in the county’s largest city, Yangon, which is greatly

Mr. Turner spots an Arsenal fan at an airport in Heho, Shan State, Myanmar For fun facts about our new teachers check out: www.galleonnewsonline.com

influenced by religion. According to the 2014 census, over 90% of Myanmar’s population is Buddhist and the architecture definitely reflects that. “It seemed as if every other building I passed was a pagoda or a stupa [Buddhist temples].” Turner said. Turner described the food as traditional Chinese with a Thai flare, and a lot of curry. Turner loves traveling the globe; he says it helps him get a better understanding for the world. “My favorite part of the trip would have to be the cuisine,” Turner said. “Burmese food is influenced by it’s bordering countries: China and Thailand.” Meanwhile, 5,572 miles away from Myanmar, English teacher Bettina Hoffman was vacationing in Ireland. Hoffman stayed there for 10 days and witnessed some breathtaking

sites. She toured the “architecturally superb”Trinity College. It was founded in 1592 and has taught people ranging from philosopher George Berkley to One Direction singer Niall Horan. Hoffman also got the chance to explore the beautiful St. Patrick’s Cathedral; which was established in 1191. “It was incredible seeing all of these old buildings and artifacts that are decades older than our nation,” Hoffman said. “It really makes you think about those times, and the architectural style really gives you the feel of it.” One of the most fascinating artifacts Hoffman witnessed was “The Book Of Kells.” The book was written in the seventh century (almost 1,000 years older than the Declaration of Independence) and contained the four Gospels of the New Testament. “The history of Ireland is

interesting from varying perspectives. Perspective is most important in the teaching of any history,” Hoffman claimed. Turner and Hoffman can both agree that their world travels give them great stories for their students when the school year begins.

Cong Abbey located near Galway, Ireland

Giant’s Causeway overlooking the Atlantic Stunning infinity pool in Bagan

The Irrawaddy River peeking through flowers

PHOTOS COURTESY OF KEVIN TURNER AND BETTINA HOFFMAN ART BY ERIN TURNER

Welcome to River

Mr. Bunin Performing Arts

Ms. Carrasco E.S.E.

Mr. Milton English

Ms. Dettling Guidance

Ms. Barreca Social Studies

Ms. Moran English

Ms. DaCuinha C.T.E.

Ms. Gorbell English

Ms. Weppner Science

Ms. Earle World Language

Mr. Keller Guidance

Dr. Robbins English PHOTOS BY ARYANA MUGNATTO

Features Max Kozlowski

THE GALLEON SEPTEMBER 2015

River’s Band is Feeling Blue

Features Editor

Wearing their classic shade of blue, the Spanish River Silver Sound Marching Band has proudly trotted onto the field to perform. It should come as no surprise that this year’s marching band show pays homage to River’s storied shade with its theme of, you guessed it, “Blue.” A Silver Sound Marching Band performance is guaranteed to leave its audience in awe of their swift motions and perfectly timed formations, all while the band carries along complex and entertaining melodies. Despite their remarkable showings, the dedication of its members to achieve these crisp displays is one of River’s greatest and most underappreciated accomplishments. Band is not classified as a sport, but it would not be a stretch to say that it requires the same level of mental and physical capabilities. Marching band

students have momentous endurance and muscle strength, as well as strong lung capacities. These capabilities are not found in any ordinary student, rather they are a result of being on the field for hours at a time preparing for a marching band show. Junior Ben Marton aknowledges the inensity that training for band requires. “We do a ton of excercising and conditioning prior to performances,” Marton said. This preparation, however, is not your typical conditioning program. The conditioning begins in band camp. Over the summer all students are required to attend at least eight full days of this camp from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, and additional days are necessary for those in leadership roles. The first three days of camp are focused around learning and practicing the fundamentals of marching, as well as the band beginning to hone

The Silver Sound Marching Band performing its halftime show at one River’s football games.

their musical performance of both pep band music, which is played throughout River’s football games, and its halftime s h o w . Marching band members Drum Major Andrew Marques guides the band’s perfomance. must bring These chaltheir instruments, which can range up lenges do not come without their perks. The to 25 pounds, into the blistering heat students’ devotion pays dividends through each day and perfect their detailed the social bonding and character building. marches and formations so that they Senior Band Captain Neha Sharma recomare show quality. Marching itself takes mends marching band to all students, and hours, days, and weeks of practice to says that the demands are heavily outmaster without even considering the weighed by benefits. music that accompanies it. The next “No other group of people will have your few days of camp includes the march- back and support you in whatever it ing band sections combining their efforts to is you do than your band family,” Sharform the earliest stages of their show. Stu- ma said. “Also, the leadership oppordents are required to stay after school each tunities and character building skills Tuesday and Thursday until 6:30 PM as the are bountiful. Being in the [marching] band continuously adds to their halftime band makes you a stronger, more disshow routine throughout the season, eventu- ciplined, and more aware person, all ally combining to a nearly eight minute show. while having a whole bunch of fun.” Band Director Craig White acknowledges the It is clear that Silver Sound stuincredible effort and talent of these students. dents are a talented group unlike “Learning any instrument in any art form is any other, and marching band carries always a challenge. That in itself requires a lot much more significance to its memof dedication,” White said. “Marching while you bers than simply an extracurricular play music is one of the most physically taxing activity. things there is. Studies have been done comparing marathon runners to people in professional marching bands.”

Senior Reminders College Deadlines November

October

Graduation Requirements Community service: 20 hours Bright Futures minimum 75 hours

Overdue books No cap and gown with obligations

Senior pictures Rolling Admissions

Prestige portraits by nov. 1st

Credit check minimum of 24 credits - check with your guidance counselor

One online course Complete course before may ART BY ERIN TURNER PHOTOS COURTESY OF GOOGLE IMAGES

THE GALLEON SEPTEMBER 2015