The Eagle Eye - February 2017

The eagle eye

Young, Social and Misguided Quarter Three 2017 • Volume 2, Number 3

Design by Lily Skopp

Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School 5901 Pine Island Road Parkland, FL 33076

The Eagle Eye Quarter Three 2017 • Volume 2, Number 3

14

Contents The opinions expressed in this paper are not necessarily those of Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School or Broward County Public Schools. The publication abides by the scholastic press associations and is a member of the Florida Scholastic Press Association, the National Scholastic Press Association and the Columbia Scholastic Press Association. If you would like to advertise please call (754) 322-2150 or email melissa.falkowski@browardschools.com

Visit us at: eagleeye.news @HumansofMSD on Instagram @EagleEyeMSD on Twitter

03 Letters to the Editor MSD In Brief 04 06 TRAGEDY Strikes 07 Loaded Question Thanks Obama 08 11 The Trump TraiN DeParts March Heard ‘round the world 12 Let’s Talk About Sex 15 MSD student body shares perspectives on various issues New developments occur at MSD

Community responds with shock following airport shooting

MSD editorial board debates gun control

After two terms and eight years in office, President Barack Obama leaves complicated legacy

Donald Trump sworn in as 45th President of the United States Women’s March on Washington leads to worldwide sister marches

Photo by Liam Hutton

Implementation of Broward County School Board sex education policy proves slow

Editorial Board Alexa Kravitz MaKayla Manning Lily Skopp Editors-in-Chief

Amit Dadon

Associate Editorial & Sports Editor

Gillian marton

Associate Feature & Entertainment Editor

Lauren Newman Associate News Editor

KaitLyn Falness Business Manager

Liam Hutton Photo Editor

Staff Writers

Amy Scarlata Andrea Hengber Anna Dittman Carly Novell Christy Ma Einav Cohen Emma Dowd Gage Collamore Isabella Cohen Jacob Brown Jayden Beir Jordon Fisher Jordyn Laudanno

Karter Cooper Lauren Blodgett Madyson Kravitz Nyan Clarke Rebecca Schneid Robert Schentrup Ryan Lofurno Samantha Getz Sofia Cozzolino Tara Gaines Taylor Morrison Victoria Rosenthal Sarah Hale

17 Special Section: Social Media • Young, Social and Misguided

• Express Yourself

• What Goes Online Stays Online

• LIVING A DOUBLE LIFE

• Stay off My Social

• Finsta: FOr Friends Only

25 Cutting the cord 27 LIVING LIFE IN COLOR 27 Tailgates, Chili and CaMo Winter Wrap-Up 28 Scoring a Place in History 30 31 Shooting for the Record Books 31 Hoffman’s Homecoming

Consumers begin to make switch from cable to streaming networks

Miami booms with Life in Color music festival

New year kicks off with Kiss 99.9’s Chili Cook-Off concert Winter sports seasons come to a close

Men’s soccer makes school history, advances to Regional Finals

Women’s basketball team makes history; advances to Regional Finals MSD Alumni returns to coach water polo teams

Design by Lily Skopp

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Impolite Politics

Dear Editor, I am tired of teachers trying to press their political opinions onto their students. I do believe that teachers have a big impact on their student’s lives, but they do not control us. We are all entitled to our own opinion. It is very unprofessional and rude for a teacher to belittle you or lecture you because you have a different political view than them.

It is not right for a teacher to tell you that “you don’t understand politics” or “you are too young to comprehend this issue.”

I’m not going to accept your opinion as correct because you are older.

I’m not stupid. I can read the headlines, comprehend news articles and watch the news just as well as any adult can. It makes me mad. Why are teachers allowed to take shots at your political opinions, but when you fire back you get in trouble? I understand that youth is supposed to be respectful to their elders, but I refuse to sit in my seat and pretend that I agree with views that offend me.

If anybody, no matter how old they are, is brash enough to lecture me about how my personal beliefs and opinions are wrong, I am going to fire back.

Katrina White, 9

Transcending Gender

Dear Editor, A few days ago, I was having a discussion with my brother. He is 12 years old, and I was astonished when he and I agreed on something: there are only two genders.

When I was very little, my head was full of stereotypes. I loved to play with cars, and I also was completely in love with Star Wars. I often felt like I was born in the wrong body just because I wasn’t “as much of a girl” as every other girl around me was. But after a few years, I realized that my gender wasn’t supposed to be defined by what people thought my gender should be. I realized that what mattered was what I felt; I felt like a woman.

Many people think that by saying there are only two genders, you are underestimating the validity of agender people or genderqueer people, but in the end, you either identify as man, woman or neither. Why do we have to give names to everything? Why is there a concept of femininity when, if a man wore a skirt, he wouldn’t be any less of a man? Why are some transgender people offended when someone says there are only two genders? Aren’t they still identifying as a man or woman when they say “I am a transgender woman”?

There are only two genders; there are different gender expressions.

Valentina Sawan, 11

Send us a letter

Have something to say about school? Have something to say about a local, national or global issue? Have something to say about this issue of The Eagle Eye? We want to hear your opinions.

Email submissions to: melissa.falkowski@browardschools.com

Not Enough Languages

Dear Editor, As a student of a foreign language class, I strongly believe that Marjory Stoneman Douglas is lacking in foreign languages.

It is one of the most important subjects throughout education. Of course, it’s not possible to include every known language as a class, but only containing two different language choices to choose from is very limited and wrong.

My brother had taken a class many years ago for sign language, and he found it very useful later in his life in certain situations. This shows that the more variety, the more students can learn what will be most useful to them.

What if a student were to travel to a country and not know the language, or get a job in which they must communicate to other people who speak another language that the school did not offer as a class? When there are more languages to choose from, this will not occur as often. Students can learn things that they will enjoy, rather than being forced to choose between two languages to learn in order to satisfy college needs.

I also know that my opinion about this is not alone, which proves that this is something to be considered.

Kaitlyn Puller, 9

Respect the Muslim Ban

Dear Editor, People need to calm down. Yes it’s unorthodox, but we’re talking about a seven day ban on Muslims, 120-day ban on all refugees. This is temporary until a new vetting process is implemented to reduce what is a very real threat.

People are hysterically outraged, but they don’t realize that Europe already had this argument. You’ve seen what unchecked immigration is doing there; it’s

dangerous to casually accept people from war torn countries, (already having antiwestern) views into your country.

Is it all Muslims? No, of course not.

But, it’s enough to be an issue of national security. We have to stop fooling around, and it’s time to respect our sovereignty and make no apologies for wanting to be selective in who come here.

Ethan Trieu , 11

More Than Just Abortion Dear Editor, Attempts to defund Planned Parenthood have been pushed by members of the Republican Party for a while now. Conservative “pro-lifers” have objected to the abortion services the clinics provide, claiming that it sanctions the murders of innocent babies.

Besides the fact that the “babies” aborted are actually just clumps of cells attached to a uterine lining and nowhere near any sort of conscious thought, abortion services are nowhere near the only ones Planned Parenthood supplies.

Planned Parenthood has around 650 centers nationwide. They don’t just do abortions. Actually, abortions only account for 3 percent of their activities.

What they mainly do is provide health care and sex education. They try to prevent unwanted pregnancies before they happen—rather than just telling people “abstinence is key,” they offer

realistic solutions and ways to properly, well, plan parenthood, so to speak.

They also perform a number of other services, including pap smears and mammary exams to test for cancers, and STI testing. This helps prevent spread of unnecessary STDs and can help women catch cancer before it spreads, which saves lives.

They do over 270,000 pap smears and 360,000 mammary exams annually. That’s a lot of women.

So, to say that Planned Parenthood is an abortion clinic is a gross oversimplification. To try to defund it altogether is not only going to stop the abortions, it is going to stop all of the other women’s health testing and family planning that occurs there—97 percent of what is actually done at the clinics.

Planned Parenthood is very beneficial towards women everywhere.

Anna Bayuk, 9

The Pledge: in School Indoctrination Dear Editor, I’m having a hard time understanding why students are forced to stand up, put a hand to their heart, and speak the “Pledge of Allegiance” every day. There is nothing wrong with respecting the country you live in, but people should have a choice in how they do that. Everyone who is not in school does not have to pledge every morning alongside coworkers or strangers, yet students from preschool to high school are used to facing the red, white and blue flag. Imposing a religion among citizens of the United States of America is illegal, but repeating a mantra and swearing an oath every weekday morning is a casual occurrence that is just passed over as normal.

I feel uncomfortable having to stand up every morning, and I refuse to put my hand over my heart— to utter a single word during the salute. I don’t feel right having to say “under God” when I am an agnostic human being. The feeling of saying “liberty and justice for all” is like lying to myself and others. There is no analysis on the words we have to say every day, and the citizens are okay with wasting the power of their words on a 30-second salute that says more than we realize. I strongly believe that everyone should have a choice in whether they want to chant about their undying allegiance to their nation, under the power of God. Kathryn Kisevicius, 9

Ban Block

Dear Editor, I am writing about the Block Scheduling we are going to have next year. I am worried and upset about the classes next year and do not think it is a good idea at all. My experience with it in the sixth grade was horrible for me. Although a lot has been said to us that makes it sound good, my experience is that it is not a good way to teach.

I hate block schedule.

Everyone is just going to sit in a class for one and one-half hours and listen to the teacher lecture. In sixth grade, the block scheduling held us for two hours in every class and it was hard to stay focused. No one can sit for that amount of time every single class, each day, and take notes for the amount of time given to us and not feel like your hand is going to fall off.

Therefore, I think next year is going to be bad for the students. I know it concerns me a lot, especially having to focus for a long time in each class. I think it is being done to help the teachers to be happy, not the students. I hope that this will be reconsidered for the years after.

Brooke Wofchuck, 9

Not Enough

Dear Editor, As a student that is almost a young adult, I find it unfair how I wake up early in the morning for school, then work hard in my classes, then go to the cafeteria and be given the same amount of food as a sixth grader. I go through that long line to end up with three small chicken tenders, probably five fries, a semi-rotten fruit and a small bag of juice. I just want to know how that is supposed to fill any 14 to 18 year old.

I know others may say “bring your own lunch,” but some people, like myself, have no other choice but to eat school lunch. If I’m paying $2.50 a day, I expect to get a full stomach. I feel like we should get more food because we are almost adults and need more to energize us for the rest of our school day. I think extra food should be free, or at least the price for extra should be decreased, since we technically don’t get another fruit, drink or any other side. I would like to be treated like the adult that I am about to become and be given more food than a middle schooler.

Kyla Newman, 12

Letters to the Editor 03

MSD In Brief Design by Robert Schentrup

Dedicated to DECA States. The test lasted 90 minutes and consisted of 100 questions on business-related knowledge.

Additionally, students had the option to test in teams. Each member was able to take an exam with a partner, and the two scores were then averaged together for a final score, which had to be evaluated and would determine whether they MSD DECA chapter poses for a photo with their trophies from States. would move on to the MSD DECA broke a chapter record for the highest number of first next stage of testing: place trophies in school history. Photo courtesy of Sharon Cutler States. he annual DECA district exam “I was able to work with a friend, for Marjory Stoneman Douglas and I know that we both enjoyed the students to qualify for DECA States experience,” freshman Rachel Taylor said. took place on Jan. 12 in the auditorium.

“Before the test, we studied together and The exam consists of different categories prepared as much as we could.” such as hospitality, marketing and Outside of the district exam, there finance, which are taught in DECA courses were other ways to qualify for States. offered at MSD. Some students did presentations at Nova All 600 DECA students had the Southeastern University on Jan. 18 to opportunity to take the test, but over qualify. Others created 30-page papers; 500 chose to participate. There were two the best 12 in Florida would move on to sessions for testing, since there were so present them at the state competition. many people interested in competing at “The day of my presentation, I was

T

Moving On Up 63 students qualify to compete at Internationals Accounting Applications Elijah Abraham Allison Kerse Automotive Services Marketing Kyle Croatti

Business Finance Sean Bean Christopher Rilling Buying & Merchandising Research Carli Albert

Emily Bernstein Jessica Friedenburg Andrea Hengber Hannah Lief Business Service Research Plan Maria Chamberlain Maggie Chu Business Services Marketing Jessica Rosenstack Buying & Merchandising Daniela Ortiz

Kosha Patel Creative Marketing Chapter Project Carson Abt Hunter Luboff Michael Yucht Community Service Chapter Project Carmen Lo Ariana Ortega

Financial Consulting Event Sydney Watson

Growing Your Business Annika Mursten Hannah Guttentag

Financial Services Noah Kaufman William Leombruno Jason Parness

COMEDY GOLD

O

Sam Resnick Hospitality Services Yijie Huang Rachel Nattis Jensine Varghese Emily Wolfman Hospitality & Tourism Research Plan Brooke Berman Demia Bonner Beni Gross Michelle Sanchez Kayla Sanseverino

hundred thirty-three students earned trophies and according to Fletcher, students were proud with how they did and were confident they would be successful at States.

“When the DECA States list came out, I was super excited to see my name,” Fletcher said. “At the award ceremony, I had no idea what place I came in; all I knew was that I was going to Orlando for States. They called my name out for third place for my category and, at that moment, I knew all my hard work paid off.”

Qualifying students competed at States from March 2-5 in Orlando, Florida.

“We have a lot of success this year, and I am confident many will succeed, but, it is ultimately up to them if they just want to go for a vacation or want to compete and succeed,” hospitality teacher Mitch Albert said.

Participants broke for the most first place trophies in the history of the school’s DECA chapter. The chapter earned a total of ten first place trophies and had 63 student winners.

“All of the students had an awesome experience and we can’t be more proud,” academy of finance and marketing teacher Sharon Cutler said. Story by Tara Gaines

Learn & Earn Chapter Project Robbie Tromberg Michael Weissman

Public Relations Chapter Project Emily Weingarten Cyril Yared

Marketing Communications Alyssa Ramsarran Principles of Business MA Kam Cheung Finley Wells

Restaurant & Food Service Management Joseph Donato

Principles of Finance Alfonso Calderon Jessica Wainland

Tiffany Castano Anthony Rilling Stock Market Game Samantha Mayor Kyle Ramdeen Marian Lobaton

Sports & Entertainment Lewis Mizen

Start Up Business Plan Alyssa Fletcher Pranati Shah Florence Yared

Sports & Entertainment Research Plan

Travel & Yourism Samantha Goldberg Jenna Weissman

Peers and parents wowed by Douglas Drama’s hilarious “Douglas Night Live” show

n Jan. 19, the Marjory Stoneman Douglas Drama Club performed at their annual “Douglas Night Live” show, a parody of the NBC late night comedy show, “Saturday Night Live.”

The show took place in the auditorium and featured several skits written by Drama Club members themselves.

From the presidential debate to carpool karaoke, the cast parodied many of 2016’s most popular moments.

Starting at 6 p.m., the show kicked off with a skit imitating a morning at MSD, Senior Kyle Arking, sophomore Alex Athanasiou with Assistant Principal Winfred Porter and junior Ivan Ramirez act out a comedy sketch reading the announcements. Porter, during the Douglas Night Live performance. along with four other actors, portrayed typical school stereotypes. The skit poked Photo courtesy of Liam Hutton fun at teachers and students alike, with

04 News • Briefs

130 DECA members qualify for States; chapter makes school history with record first place wins

really nervous about how my judge would grade it,” sophomore Alyssa Fletcher said. “I was very well prepared because I practiced several times throughout the months before to perfect it. When I first started talking, everything else afterwards just flowed out and I felt very comfortable.

After I finished my Power Point and answering questions the judge had, I felt very confident that I did well.”

Students are required to place within the top 12 scores in the county if taking the test or presenting, in order to make it to States. For the students that do not achieve this, there is also something called “the bubble,” which is a waiting list to attend States. If someone drops out, another student may take their place.

This year, MSD had more qualifiers for States than in any previous years, with 130 members qualifying.

“Students were overall really prepared and felt confident about the test. We did practices after school and preparations in class, which is what prepared everyone to do so well,” DECA President Emily Weingarten said.

There was an award ceremony held at Nova Southeastern University on Jan. 23 in the evening to recognize student performance on the district exam. One

Entrepreneurship Business Plan Ruth Bang Evan Elias Varsha Geer Blake Goodman Felipe Linares Morgan Tromberg

New developments occur at MSD

comical references to our Alma Mater and Pinnacle.

As the show progressed, the skits became more diverse. A spoof of the ABC television series “Shark Tank” had the audience howling with laughter as a contestant with great determination tried and tried again to impress the judges; one of which was played by drama teacher Melody Herzfeld.

“Celebrity Hunger Games” featured last year’s most famous figures duking it out on stage. The presidential debate skit had Donald Trump, Hillary Clinton and Bernie Sanders take questions from the audience.

The skits combined with the stage props, costumes and improv ability of the cast made Douglas Night Live a must-

see performance full of witty jokes that catered to all viewers of the show.

“I just transferred here from Dillard Center for the Arts three days ago [and] Herzfeld encouraged me to do a skit,” freshman Tan Philip, who participated in skits themed around game shows and a feud between friends, said. “It felt really good performing with all my Douglas friends for the first time. [DNL] was a great way to start off my Douglas theater career.”

After DNL, Drama Club presented a more family-oriented show that both students and parents recognized: “Annie.”

Their production of “Annie” ran from March 3-5. Story by Nyan Clarke

MAKING HISTORY

A

ttending the South Florida History Bowl Championship Tournament at Ransom Everglades High School on Saturday, Jan. 14, four Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School seniors qualified for Nationals, which will take place in Washington D.C. on April 21-23.

The qualifying team, which is comprised of seniors Annika Mursten, Marc Cutler, Matt Harris, Robert Schentrup, Jordan Frengut and Hannah Meeks, practices every other week, usually on Fridays, after school for about one hour.

In order to prepare, the team studies questions based on European history, American history and world history.

Rho Kappa qualifies for Nationals for first time in school history

Usually, the questions used come from past history bowl competitions.

“We use different quizlets on major topics likes presidents, dates and treaties,” Mursten said.

There were 20 teams total competing at the Jan. 14 event. However, only ten teams, including MSD, qualified for Nationals. This was a landmark event for the history bowl team, which is sponsored by the social studies honor society, Rho Kappa, as the team has never before qualified for a national tournament.

In addition, MSD was the only public school in Broward County to qualify for Nationals.

“This is the first time Stoneman

Douglas has fielded a Nationals team to the history bowl, and they are very excited to be going and representing our school,” team sponsor Raymond Posada said. “This is something that they have been wanting to do for a long time, so they are pumped.

They’ve been pumped since they found out that they made it to Nationals.”

As the trip costs $3,500, the team has set up a GoFundMe page to help off set some of the costs of the trip. In addition to the $660 collected on GoFundMe, they were awarded a $1,000 scholarship by Rho Kappa to help cover the cost of the registration and hotel fees. To donate, visit Gofundme.com/msd-history-bowlnationals Story by Tori Rosenthal

Knights in shining armor

O

n Jan. 11, the Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School nominees for the 2017 Silver Knight Awards were announced.

The nominees for the following categories include Rachel Edelsberg for English and literature, Samantha Schneid for world languages, Lillian Skopp for journalism, Robert Tromberg for business and Joey Wong for athletics.

The program, sponsored by The Miami Herald, was established by the publication’s former publisher, John S. Knight, in 1959 to recognize outstanding students who have “not only maintained good grades, but have also unselfishly applied their special knowledge to contribute significant service to their schools and communities.” Students from both Miami-Dade County and Broward County are eligible for the award.

“Silver Knight is based on service primarily, and students who have good

service, perhaps even a service project, can qualify. While their service does not have to be related to the category, they do have to have some sort of academic recognition in the category they’re nominated in,” Carla Verba, the MSD Silver Knight coordinator, said.

The Silver Knight nomination is a prestigious title given to only the top high school seniors in both service and academics.

“As a part of my Silver Knight community service project in the business category, I manage a nonprofit that develops marketing campaigns and logistics for other nonprofits in South Florida,” Tromberg said.

Seniors who meet the requirement of a 3.2 GPA can be nominated for a specific category by a teacher. While MSD was able to send a nominee for each of the 15 existing Silver Knight categories, only five students were selected by the school.

Formal fun

H

osted by the senior class on Feb. 10, Winter Formal was held in the Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School gym from 7:00 p.m. until 9:30 p.m.

A ticket to the formal was $10 if purchased beforehand and $15 dollars if purchased at the door. All proceeds went to the class of 2017 to pay for Prom expenses.

Prior to the event, Senior Class Board members spent four hours setting up, creating a winter ambiance with a combination of handmade snowflakes, stars and blue and white streamers.

“We put a lot of planning into this event–from the decorations to the actual event,” Senior Class Treasurer Abby Brafman said. “I think our hard work payed off. The room looked beautiful, and everyone seemed like they were having a great time.”

The event began slowly, with only a handful of students trickling in during the first hour. However, by 8:00 p.m., more students were in attendance, dancing to the music provided by the DJ, MSD sophomore Adam Alhanti.

Once chosen by the school, nominees must undergo a process which begins with an application. The application focuses on the nominee’s contributions to both their category and to their community or school.

The application includes 12 pages of short essays and qualifications in regards to the nominee’s service and category contributions and two letters of recommendation. In addition, nominees were encouraged to submit up to 12 pages of supportive documents.

“The application was challenging, but it gave me an opportunity to express my pride over my passion projects and the hard work I have done over the last four years,” world languages nominee Samantha Schneid said.

Once students complete the application, it is turned into The Miami Herald. These application packets are submitted for judging and accompanied

A Historical Moment. History Bowl teammates Annika Mursten, Robert Schentrup, Matt Harris, Hannah Meeks and Jordan Fregnut pose for a team picture before the start of th South Florida History Bowl Championship on Feb. 25. Photo

courtesy of Annika Mursten

Five seniors nominated for Silver Knight Awards the students when they underwent a interview by a panel of three judges on March 15. Judges will determine the winners of each category. There is one winner and three honorable mentions per category.

The results will be revealed in a ceremony at the James L. Knight Center at 7 p.m. on Wednesday, May 17.

Silver Knight winners receive $2,000, a Silver Knight statue and a medallion presented by American Airlines. The three honorable mention recipients are presented with $500 and an engraved plaque.

The program inspires students to contribute to their communities and teaches young minds to use their best attributes to benefit others. The Silver Knight program will motivate high achievers through rewards and recognition for years to come. Story by Samantha Getz

Senior class hosts second annual winter formal to fundraise for prom

In addition to decorations and music, the event featured pizza and refreshments served in the mini gymnasium. Teachers and administrators were in both the gym and mini gym, supervising the event and making sure everything was under control.

“The event was a nice opportunity for kids to get out with their friends and have a good time,” Principal Ty Thompson said.

While the event was to benefit the senior class, students in all grades were in attendance.

“Winter Formal is a great way for us freshman to get more involved in the school and feel more comfortable at Douglas,” freshman Max Wolfman said.

This is the second time MSD has held a Winter Formal. This event was first held in 2015, but not in 2016, as last year’s Senior Class Board decided not to run the event.

However, there were some changes made since the first dance. For the 2015 formal, attendees were required to wear white. But, due to criticism, the 2017 Senior Cass Board decided not to enforce a dress code. Most students wore formal

attire; female attendees mainly wore dresses and male attendees, dress shirts.

The senior class board raised over $2,000 and sold over 200 tickets.

“It was very fun and a successful event to host.

I hope that the event continues as an tradition for years to come,” Senior Class President Matthew Feldman said.

Dancing Queens. Senior Danielle Garsten, junior Gerardo As a result of positive Sanchez, sophomore Alejandro Becerra, freshman Camila response from both Garcia, junior Manuel Rojas and friends dance along to those who planned and music provided by sophomore Adam Alhanti, the event’s attended the event, there DJ, at the Feb. 10 formal. Photo by Lyliah Skinner is already talk about said. holding Winter Formal in subsequent The event was held not only to raise years. money for the senior class, but also to “Since Winter Formal was such a promote an event in which students can success this year, it will be an even make everlasting memories at with their bigger success when we are seniors, high school peers. Story by Jayden Bier and and the money we make goes to Prom,” Karter Cooper Sophomore Class President Jackie Corin

News • Briefs 05

Design by Carly Novell and Rebecca Schneid

Tragedy Strikes Community responds with fear and shock following shooting at Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood Airport

E

steban Santiago–a 26-year-old lone shooter–opened fire Friday, Jan. 6 at the Fort LauderdaleHollywood International Airport, killing five people and injuring five more.

After flying from Anchorage, Alaska to Minneapolis, Minnesota and then to Fort Lauderdale, Florida, Santiago used the gun from his legally checked gun bag to open fire at baggage claim in Terminal 2 of the airport.

According to federal guidelines, passengers are allowed to check unloaded guns in a locked case. It is also legal to place ammunition in checked baggage.

Therefore, Santiago was able to legally check his Glock 9mm semi-automatic handgun, which was used during the shooting. “[Santiago] was legally in possession of the firearm after legally declaring it and transporting it interstate,” Robert Hutchinson, a former homeland security investigations special agent in charge, said. “He followed the rules like hundreds do everyday, but he took advantage of what the laws and rules are and did something just unbelievably evil.”

Shortly after the 90-second-long shooting, Chenet Nerette, 52, used his phone to record the scene in a viral video. The graphic video showed victims wounded from gunshots, those helping and trying to save the wounded, those on the phone with the police and those in shock and unmoving.

Once Santiago’s gun ran out of ammunition, he calmly set down his weapon and laid on the ground, the police then took Santiago into custody unharmed.

Annika Dean, a Broward County Public Schools art teacher from Parkland, hid under a luggage cart upon hearing the sound of gunshots. While Dean prayed for her survival, Tony Bartosiewicz, a retired electrician from New York, proceeded to climb on top of Dean in attempt to shield her.

“My biggest concern was my kids not having their mother,” Dean said. “I’ve got a 13-year-old and an 11-year-old. They need me.”

Many speculations circulated through the media regarding Santiago’s motive for the shooting and whether a terrorist Countries with the most mass shootings, 1966-2012

U.S.

group was involved.

After the FBI searched through Santiago’s internet and phone usage, it was determined that he was not in contact with any terrorist organization.

But, the FBI did know about his mental illness which manifested from a destructive form of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder after his two years in the United States military.

“We have to do a better job of making sure that people with mental illness who could potentially be dangerous with a gun aren’t able to buy guns,” Congressman Ted Deutch said. “But the bigger picture is that we need to take care of people with mental illnesses and make sure that they get the care that they need.”

Claiming he was hearing voices in his head and being forced by these voices to watch ISIS videos, Santiago entered the Anchorage FBI field office and voluntary was treated for his mental illness back in November 2016. Yet, after only a few interviews with friends and family, his case was closed.

After being questioned by the police following the shooting, it was evident that his mental state was in a similar place as it was in November, according to police reports of the interrogation.

Santiago claimed the attack was on behalf of ISIS; the terrorist group has yet to claim responsibility.

In the initial aftermath of the chaotic shooting, immense confusion followed.

There were theories of a second shooter, which led to disarray in other terminals as well.

“We thought it was some kind of coordinated terrorist attack,” Dean said, “It was scary because we didn’t know if there was just one gunman, two or more.”

Thousands of people who had just landed from flights into Fort Lauderdale were forced to wait for hours on the airport tarmac as the airport was being searched and deemed safe.

“The shooting happened just before 1 p.m. and we were bussed out of the terminal at 8 p.m. or 9 p.m., but there were some people who didn’t get out of the airport till 1 a.m. or 2 a.m.,” Dean said.

According to Broward.org, 29.2 million passengers traveled through the Fort U.S. Lauderdale airport in 2016. Many of these passengers included Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School students.

“I never felt like I could really be affected by these shootings, but now it’s more real,” sophomore Maayan Mizrahi said. “I’m realizing I could definitely be a victim if I was just in the wrong place at

90

28.1% of shooters exchanged fire with police

18

Russia 15

Yemen 11

permission from authorities to leave. Photo courtesy of David Santiago/El Nuevo Herald/TNS

the wrong time like those people were.”

Not only has this event been a wake up call for local community members, but also for those who work in aiports because of the dangers that they may encounter.

“My dad is a pilot, so I’m so glad that he didn’t end up going to work that day,” freshman Katie Herbert said. “If he did, who knows what would have happened to him. It really just made me realize that something could happen to those I love.”

Knowing how to protect oneself can alleviate common fears among teens and adults. Shootings can occur anywhere, therefore awareness of one’s surroundings is crucial to ensure safety no matter the situation.

“I don’t fear public places because I know how to protect myself; I know how to protect the people I love and others around me,” junior Natalia Lawrence said, “It’s just something you have to go around knowing everyday that a person could have a weapon, and you run the risk of being near someone that does.”

As a result of the event’s close proximity, it has received heavy attention from students and teachers within South Florida. It is often that the stress which accompanies discussions about these kinds of traumatic events can be detrimental to students’ mental health.

“I think this event made people understand that there is serious disrespect to gun ownership and to traveling with guns and ammunition,” Broward County Commissioner Michael Udine said. “It just gives a sense of bringing it home that something like this can happen right in our backyards.”

In response to a recent spike in

How active shooter incidents end

40% of shooters committed suicide

Philippines

Waiting on Tarmac. Following the shooting, passengers wait on the tarmac until they are given

13.1% of unarmed citizens restrained shooter

Out of the 160 Cases of Public mass shootings from 1915-2013

62+T 62%

involved shooters that had or showed signs of mental illness

shootings within the past 10 years, Congress has previously attempted–yet failed–to take action regarding U.S. gun control laws.

Deutch, who represents Florida’s 22nd Congression Districts–which include parts of Palm Beach County and Broward County–is one of the activists fighting for reformed gun laws within the Congress, especially ones regarding individuals with mental illness. However, Congress remains divided on issues of gun violence.

“Last year, we had a sit-in on the House floor,” Deutch said. “We stayed there for 25 straight hours debating the issue of gun control and making sure that everyone knew that Congress wasn’t passing the kinds of laws we need to pass.”

Evidently, the shooting at Fort Lauderdale airport has lasting repercussions that exceed a one day headline. Although the event itself led to heartbreak for many families, it has reopened a debate by Florida’s Legislature regarding gun control. State Democrats and Republicans are working together to find a solution that satisfies both sides.

Santiago was indicted on Thursday, Jan. 26. According to a Department of Justice release, he was charged with 11 counts of performing an act of violence against a person at an airport serving international civil aviation that caused death or serious bodily injury, six counts of use and discharge of a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence and five counts of causing the death of a person through the use of a firearm. Story

by Carly Novell and Rebecca Schneid Shooter Incidents: Where you are most at risk Houses of Worship 4% Health Care Facilities Residences 2% 5% Open Spaces 9%

45+25+109542

Government Properties

45%

10%

Businesses

25%

Schools

Source: CNN

06 News • New to MSD

Design by Rebecca Schneid and Carly Novell

Loaded Question MSD editorial board debates gun control

Shoot Guns Down

G

un violence alone kills an average of 36 people every single day. It hurts deeply time and time again to see the deaths of innocent people who left their homes one typical morning expecting to come back that evening, yet never did. From Sandy Hook Elementary, to Aurora, Colorado, to the Pulse Nightclub massacre to the recent Fort Lauderdale Airport shooting, many lives have been taken at the sole expense of a psychotic mind with a gun.

How can a country continue to experience the same tragedy over and over again and still not move to end the cycle? It’s almost as if we are at war with ourselves. Citizens who are pro-gun are selfishly looking at this situation; their only real argument is to remind us that the now-outdated Second Amendment of the Constitution allows for the right to bear arms. But that document was written in a time of war and rebellion—when the country was just beginning—when mental issues were not even remotely understood.

With a constantly changing and evolving world, ideals change as well—but for some reason, this one has not.

Not even one week into the new year, the country experienced yet another mass shooting. On Jan. 6 at the Ft. Lauderdale airport, an unstable man by the name of Esteban Santiago-Ruiz walked into the baggage claim of Terminal 2, pulled out his gun and killed five innocent people.

This man had been diagnosed with

schizophrenia, yet our laws allowed him to, and worse, to check his gun onto a plane. No suspicions were raised either by the fact that his gun was his only luggage when he arrived for his flight.

The government should feel ashamed; this man clearly needed help, especially since he went to a federal office to tell them about his disturbing thoughts and feelings. Even with this information, Santiago-Ruiz was still allowed to have his gun.

Yet, in comparison to other mass shootings this country has witnessed, this is not even remotely the worst. On Dec. 14, 2012 a 20-year-old man named Adam Lanza walked into Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown, Connecticut and began firing at innocent teachers and young children, becoming responsible for the deadliest mass shooting at any school in United States history.

He shot and killed 20 children and six adult staff members in a matter of minutes with his automatic weapon, a Bushmaster XM15-E2S and a pistol, a Glock 20SF. After the incident, it was discovered that Lanza had been diagnosed with obsessive-compulsive disorder, which more than likely contributed to his actions. Although his disabilities are not his fault, it is definitely the government’s fault for allowing him to own a gun.

Parents and friends had to digest the fact that their babies and teachers were not

Gun control is the first step to a safer county

only not coming home, but also that they had to experience such immense fear leading up to their deaths.

In addition, on June 12, 2016 at Pulse, a gay nightclub in Orlando, a man named Omar Mateen easily entered with a SIG Sauer MCX semi-automatic rifle and a 9mm Glock 17 semi-automatic pistol.

Within an hour, Mateen was able to kill 49 patrons and injure an additional 53 before being killed in a shootout with Orlando police.

After the shooting, it was proven by an autopsy and the testimony of his wife that he was disturbed, mentally ill, abusive and had been using drugs for quite some time.

Recently, his widow was arrested as well on charges of being complicit with his views and plans. In this country, a deranged and detached man was able to keep his dangerous guns because of his socalled rights, and with them, change the lives of so many. It amazes me how with even an event like this, no change has come in regards to gun control.

Another shooting occured at he Aurora Theater in Colorado on July 20, 2012. Civilians were enjoying a midnight premier of “The Dark Knight Rises” at a Century 16 theatre. About 30 minutes into the movie, James Eagan Holmes entered the theatre dressed in a costume and wielding his firearms. After throwing canisters emitting gas and smoke into the audience, he began to shoot at the

Stand your ground

G

un control has been a hot political topic in recent years, with different parties polarized on how to handle this controversial issue. Although many would take the side of enforcing stricter gun control, restricting guns will leave us worse off as a whole, especially as guns are needed for the purpose of self defense. With terrorism and crime on the rise, self-defense is an issue that is more important than ever.

It is a common misconception that places with less guns are safer and that they have lower murder and crime rates, but all this misconception does is allow shooters and criminals to take more innocent lives before the police arrive. This situation can be stopped by registered gun owners practicing their Second Amendment rights. There have been many times when potential mass shootings were stopped because people with a legal weapon were nearby.

In December 2012, a man in Clackamas Town Center, Oregon opened fire in a busy mall. The shooter was only stopped

when concealed weapon carrier and off-duty security guard Nick Meli drew his own gun and forced the man into a service corridor, where he would then kill himself. Before that, however, the shooter was able to kill two people and injure one before the confrontation, Meli, using his Second Amendment rights, saved himself, his family and countless others in the mall at the time.

In July 2014, psychiatric patient in the Mercy-Fitzgerald Hospital campus in Pennsylvania, shot and killed a caseworker and wounded Dr. Lee Silverman. Luckily, Silverman had a gun on him at the time and shot the patient three times in the torso, giving nearby doctors and caseworkers enough time to tackle and subdue the gunman. Without Silverman’s quick actions, the situation could have easily turned into a mass shooting.

Although guns have saved countless lives before, people still believe that stricter gun control laws makes for a better and safer society, but in fact, this does not. Places that have little to

blinded and unarmed audience with three different automatic weapons, killing 12 and injuring over 70 more.

During the trial, Holmes was proven to be violently depressed, obsessed with killing and possibly schizophrenic. His insanity defense kept him from being sentenced to death, but he was still given 12 life sentences, one for every innocent person he murdered, and over 3,000 more years for all of the other attempted murders. How can somebody so obviously disturbed obtain such powerful and dangerous weapons?

It may be unrealistic to have no guns all together—especially with such a long history filled with U.S. Citizens using guns. The need for self-defense is reasonable. This is where the need for background and mental health checks comes in. Tests must be much more thorough and intense; legally owning a gun should not be taken so lightly and without regards for the consequences.

What we truly need are stricter psychological exams, background checks and a modernization of the Second Amendment. The right to bear arms is a long outdated guideline for this country.

If this misconstrued right has been responsible for so many tragedies, then what benefit is derived for the right?

This is the question the government and the American people together must begin to ask themselves. Editorial by Madyson Kravitz.

Gun control infringes on constitutional rights

no guns at all only make it easier for criminals to claim more victims during a shooting.

One shooting that represents this is the Aurora, Colorado theater shooting on July 20, 2012. A lone, crazy gunman walked into the theater and killed 12 and injure 70 people in the attack before police arrested him in his car afterwards.

This was considered the largest casualty shooting until the Pulse nightclub shooting in Orlando four years later.

The psycho who committed this massacre was able to do so with little difficulty due soley to the fact that guns were banned in that Century 16 theater.

This is an example of how banning guns from certain places or areas only makes it easier for shooters to murder without the law-abiding citizens having the ability to use their right of selfdefense to stop them. This is due to the fact that law-abiding gun owners follow the law and responsibly use their guns.

Making gun laws stricter will not stop criminals from getting their hands on illegal weapons. This only makes it

unnecessarily difficult for law-abiding citizens to defend themselves—a right granted by the Second Amendment of the Constitution. A prime example of this is Mexico, a country known for having one of the strictest gun control laws in Latin America. Yet, according to 2004 UN estimates, the Mexican homicide rate is 22 people per 100 people, with nearly 13 million unregistered guns in circulation.

With more gun control laws, people will have to rely completely on the police for help instead of being able to defend themselves at that moment. A study by the Department of Justice in 2015 indicates that the average police response time to a call is four minutes, which is enough time for a criminal to have completed their crime.

Imposing strict gun laws will only create more crime and keep guns away from law-abiding citizens who will not be able to defend themselves. Restricting our Second Amendment rights only hurts society and helps no one. Editorial by Ryan LoFurno

Editorial • Gun Control 07

Thanks Obama

After two terms and eight years in office, President Barack Obama leaves complicated legacy

J

an. 20, 2017 marked the end of a two-term president and the start of an unlikely politician from a business background. Barack Obama, the 44th President of the United States, was born on Aug. 4, 1968 in Honolulu, Hawaii. He attended Harvard Law School and served eight years in the Illinois Senate.

In 2007, he announced his candidacy for President of the United States, where he became the Democratic nominee and defeated Republican Arizona Sen. John McCain in the general election.

When Obama was first sworn into the presidency in 2009, he faced many challenges, including the greatest economic recession since The Great Depression and two wars with Iraq and Afghanistan, which carried over from George W. Bush’s term. During the first two years of his presidency, Obama worked to restore the U.S. economy and disengage the troops in the Middle East, as well as to reform American health care.

In the beginning of Obama’s presidency, he had many ambitions that he hoped to fulfill within his first term.

Some of these goals included giving tax breaks to companies that maintained domestic manufacturing and improving the education system for both students and teachers. In addition, he planned to end American dependence on Middle Eastern oil and repair the health care industry in order to put an end to insurance companies’ discrimination against the sick.

However, for better or for worse, many of Obama’s plans were limited when the Republicans took control of the House of Representatives in 2010. Because of this, the president was forced to spend much of his time negotiating with Congress, often unsuccessfully, rather than making progress with his projects.

Nonetheless, Obama managed to reconstruct the American health insurance laws with his far-reaching and controversial Affordable Care Act, commonly known as Obamacare, which was signed into law on March 3, 2010.

Obamacare requires that all American citizens obtain health insurance and prevents insurance companies from penalizing customers for pre-existing conditions by increasing their costs or even dropping their coverage.

“Obama was a great president for his ability to bring America out of the recession and to fix the diplomatic and economic mistakes of the Bush administration,” junior Nikhita Nookala said. “Although the Affordable Care Act is often cited as his greatest failure, I believe it was a step in the right direction towards universal health care.”

While the program has garnered much support, there has also been strong opposition, most notably by the current president, Donald Trump, who intends to terminate it.

“I think Obama had the ability to do more good during his early years as president. He had good intentions but went about it the wrong way,” junior William Pringle said. “I think there were definite problems regarding government

“

I am asking you to hold fast to that faith written into our founding documents... Yes we can. Yes we did. Yes we can. spending and Obamacare, as well as a lack of leadership during times of divisiveness, but overall he was a great person who cared about the country and wanted the best for it.”

Another notable success during Obama’s presidency was the capture of Osama Bin Laden, the notorious leader of the terrorist group al-Qaeda. Immediately following the Sept. 11 terrorist attack, Bin Laden had been the most wanted target for the U.S., but had always slipped past the clutches of the American pursuers, finding refuge in Afghanistan and later Pakistan. Thanks to the tireless work of the American military and its officials, the CIA, supervised by Obama, collected information on Bin Laden’s whereabouts and brought him to justice on May 2, 2011, when Obama announced Bin Laden’s death on national television.

On the other hand, Obama has also received much criticism for dilemmas that have arisen during his presidency, particularly the growth of the national debt. As Obama’s presidency came to its conclusion, the U.S. debt reached almost $20 trillion—$9 trillion higher than it was during the Bush presidency—according to

Obama’s Major

Accomplishments

1

Source: Washington Monthly

3

Business Insider.

While the majority of the debt was caused by previously set government budgets and a decrease in federal income, some of Obama’s plans exacerbated this liability. These include, but are not limited to: increased unemployment benefits, tax cuts, military spending for the “War on Terror” and the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, which ended the financial crisis of 2008.

Some of these programs implemented

by Obama have also sparked concern over the growing executive power of the president. Programs such as various welfare and immigration reforms caused apprehension over the possibility of this setting a precedent for future political leaders to cross legislative boundaries.

Another major critique of the Obama

Negotiated a deal to block nuclear weapons in Iran Obama led six nations to reach an agreement that forced Iran to undergo vigorous inspection to end its nuclear weapons program and blocked its pathway to build a nuclear weapons.

08 News • Farewell to President Obama

4

”

administration involved his foreign policy toward Iran. Critics proclaim that the Joint Plan of Action nuclear deal with Iran was not just ineffective in preventing Iran from gaining access to nuclear weaponry, but possibly even counterproductive.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu called it “a historic mistake.”

The primary concern with the program is that the Iranians may ignore the obligations the deal entails and continue to construct nuclear weapons in addition to supporting terrorism. However, Obama continues to refute these criticisms of the plan, pointing out that Iran’s nuclear program came to a halt for the first time in a decade. Iran’s inventory of nuclear materials were reduced and inspections by U.S. officials increased.

“What was once proclaimed as a historic mistake is now held up as a success and a reason to not sign the comprehensive deal,” Obama said in a speech on Aug. 5, 2015. “So keep that in mind when you assess the credibility of the arguments being made against diplomacy today.”

Obama first addressed the Iran issue in 2008 with his inaugural address. In

Passed the Affordable Care Act More than 20 million Americans have gained health care coverage since the passage of the law. The uninsured rate has dropped from 16 percent in 2010 to 9 percent in 2015.

Captured Osama Bin Laden Obama ordered special military forces to raid a secret compound in Abbottabad, Pakistan.

The terrorist leader was killed and al-Qaeda documents were recovered.

2 5

the speech, he put forth the goals of his presidency and emphasized prominent issues he felt America was facing, including the economic recession, costly health care, widespread job loss and violent fighting in the Middle East.

According to NBC News, presidents are often compared to their predecessors and successors. In a survey of 91 presidential historians, Obama ranks as the 12th best leader in U.S. presidential history. The poll was based on certain categories such as “crisis leadership,” “international relations,” “moral authority” and “pursuing equal justice for all.”

“If the Trump presidency is problematic, people may judge Obama even higher yet,” historian Douglas Brinkley of Rice University said.

He wrapped up his presidency with his farewell address summarizing the creation of millions of jobs, ending Iran’s nuclear weapons program, reversing the economic recession, passing health care reform and taking out the man behind the Sept. 11 tragedy. In addition, he offered hope for the future of the U.S. by drawing from the ideologies this nation was founded on.

“I am asking you to hold fast to that faith written into our founding documents; that idea whispered by slaves and abolitionists; that spirit sung by immigrants and homesteaders and those who marched for justice; that creed reaffirmed by those who planted flags from foreign battlefields to the surface of the moon; a creed at the core of every American whose story is not yet written.

Yes We Can. Yes We Did. Yes We Can,” Obama said in his address.

Obama’s final speech to America was a bittersweet moment, as the crowd chanted “four more years” in the middle of his address. Although he cannot serve the country as president any longer, he urged Americans to unite and form a better democracy by practicing their unalienable rights and continuing the pursuit of life, liberty and happiness.

Obama left office with a 60 percent approval rating, which according to The Washington Post is one of the highest for any modern president. Obama and former first lady, Michelle, signed a reportedly $60 million book deal with Penguin Random House for two separate memoirs. Story by Lauren Newman and Christy Ma

Pulled the U.S. out of an economic recession Obama signed the $787 billion American Recovery and Reinvestment Act in 2009, spurring economic growth, greatly lowering unemployment and leading to the addition of 15.5 million new jobs. Additionally, the Wall Street Reform re-regulated the financial sector to prevent future recessions.

Secured U.S. commitment to the Paris Agreement The 2015 Paris Agreement was a commitment agreed upon by 197 nations to limit global temperature increases and reduce global carbon transmissions.

Design by Lauren Newman and Christy Ma

Bye, Bye, Barack. President Barack Obama waves to the audience as he prepares to make his farewell address on Jan. 10, 2017 at McCormick Place in Chicago. Photo courtesy of Brian Cassella/Chicago Tribune/TNS

Joe Biden Meme-ories

Former Vice President Joe Biden inspires viral memes among American youth

News • Farewell to President Obama 09

Design by Kaitlyn Falness

ENGLISH AS A SECOND LANGUAGE

CLASSES

*BRING IN THIS POST CARD FOR ONE FREE TRIAL LESSON.*

ALL AGES WELCOME. WE ISSUE I-20’S FOR ALL INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS.

Learn English Fast ACADEMIC HIGH SCHOOL

All International Students Welcome!

Learn Grammar - Speaking - Comprehension & Conversation TOEFL Prep Course Available

CLASS HOURS

MONDAY, TUESDAY, WEDNESDAY, AND THURSDAY MORNINGS: 8 AM TO 1:15 PM - AFTERNOONS: 1:30 PM TO 5:45 PM EVENINGS: 6 PM TO 10:15 PM

BEGINNERS, INTERMEDIATE & ADVANCED ENROLL TODAY! START TOMORROW!

(561)-929-0333

DO YOU NEED A HIGH SCHOOL DIPLOMA? DON’T STRUGGLE IN HIGH SCHOOL!

SAVE THE SCHOOL YEAR!

ACADEMIC HIGH SCHOOL www.AcademicHS.com Principal: Sheldon “Klassy” Klasfeld

(561)-929-7990 LAST CHANCE ADULT HIGH SCHOOL DIPLOMA PROGRAM

10 Advertisement

HIGH SCHOOL DIPLOMA Ages 16 to 100!

Our diploma is equal to any high school in the United States!

DROPPED OUT? CAN’T PASS THE F.C.A.T.?

BELOW 2.0 GRADE POINT AVERAGE? RECEIVED ONLY A CERTIFICATE OF COMPLETION?

EARN A REAL DIPLOMA...

NOT A GED! In the comfort of your own home!

WRITTEN WORK ONLY - NO TESTS!

Design by Gillian Marton

The trump train departs Donald Trump sworn in as 45th president of the United States at 58th presidential inauguration

Photo by MCT Campus

Photo courtesy of Olivier Douliery/Abaca Press/TNS

O

n Friday Jan. 20, Donald J. Trump became the 45th President of the United States. Trump was inaugurated alongside his family, who will also be working closely with him throughout his administration.

Many events preceded the affair.

Trump arrived in Washington, D.C. on Tuesday Jan. 17, where he attended the Chairman’s Global Dinner. On Jan. 19, he attended the Arlington National Cemetery wreath laying ceremony in honor of the more than 400,000 members of the armed forces who rest there.

On that same evening, Trump also entertained guests at the Make America Great Again Welcome Celebration Concert in which musicians performed their music on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial. On the morning of the inauguration, Trump and his wife, Melania, as well as Vice President Mike Pence and his wife, Karen, followed tradition by attending a service at St. John’s Episcopal Church.

After the service, Trump and Melania made their way to the White House where they interacted with Barack and Michelle Obama. Upon entering the front of the White House, Melania Trump gave the Obama’s a gift for their service before the inauguration ceremony commenced.

At around 11:40 a.m., Roy Blunt, a Republican senator, welcomed the audience by discussing the historical concept of a peaceful transition of power.

The event progressed as several religious figures presented invocations and as the Missouri State University Chorale performed “Now We Belong.” Democratic

Photo courtesy of Carolyn Cole and Marcus Yam/Los Angeles Times/TNS

Sen. Chuck Schumer followed the performance by providing brief remarks and finally requesting that everyone rise for the swearing-in ceremony.

“Watching the inauguration was a very proud and patriotic moment for me,” senior Kyle Croatti said.

Vice President Mike Pence was sworn in by Associate Justice Clarence Thomas, preceded by a performance of “America the Beautiful” by the Mormon Tabernacle Choir.

At noon, Trump took the oath with the assistance of Chief Justice John Roberts, which was followed by a performance of “Hail to the Chief ” by the U.S. Marine Band. In addition, the 21-gun salute was conducted in recognition of his presidency.

After officially becoming president, Trump delivered his inaugural address to the country in the presence of four former presidents. It was the shortest inaugural address since Jimmy Carter’s presidency in 1977. Lasting 16 minutes, the speech contained 1,433 words, which Trump publicly claims he composed himself.

The speech caused a lot of speculation originally, as critics contemplated whether this would be the first of new trends that the president would be changing compared to established traditions, since most presidents in the past have delivered a significantly longer address.

According to The Los Angeles Times, the address was “a truncated version of Trump’s campaign rally address, absent specific policy and big on a sense of anger

at what he defined as a ruling class that has raided America for its own benefit.”

While inaugural speeches are typically encouraging, Trump portrayed America in a rather negative light. He described the country as a “land of abandoned factories, economic angst and rising crime.” However, he vowed to salvage these turmoils and promised a new era for American politics and a better system for the American people.

“I watched the first part of the inauguration at school and it was well run overall but I’m still quite unsure about the actual candidate who was being inaugurated and his fellow team members especially since we’re seeing this uncertain payout in his time so far in the White House,” senior Yared said. “The inauguration had no massive conflict, but it was appointed more towards his base and it wasn’t necessarily appealing to America as a whole but rather those who voted for him. I’m not sure if he is doing that much in order to unify all of America which is something we have to see more of moving forward.”

During the inauguration, many protests took place in Washington D.C., most of them peaceful. Many Democratic U.S. Representatives displayed their disapproval of the new presidency by refusing to show up to the inauguration.

Despite this lack of attendance, the inauguration received approximately 30.6 million viewers and was broadcasted live on 12 different channels. In contrast, former president Barack Obama’s inauguration reeled in more than 37.8

million viewers.

While about 300,000-600,000 people attended the inauguration, the exact number of attendees is a topic of controversy.

The New York Times tweeted a side by side comparison of Trump’s crowd and Obama’s crowd 45 minutes before each swearing-in ceremony. It depicted a surprisingly small crowd size at the inauguration when it was compared to a similar aerial photo of Obama’s inauguration ceremony in 2008, which happened to be one of the most popular in our nation’s history.

Another aspect that added more fuel to the controversy, was the fact that Trump’s press secretary, Sean Spicer, claimed that “photographs of the inaugural proceedings were intentionally framed in a way to minimize the enormous support that had gathered on the National Mall.”

Additionally, Spicer falsely claimed, “that it was the largest audience to witness an inauguration, period. Both in person and around the globe.”

“I found the controversy on the crowd size a little absurd, as it wasn’t the biggest deal to point out exactly how many people were there. But, there was also no need for others to create facts in order to prove one’s self worth based on their inauguration size,” senior Cyril Yared said.

Although this inauguration sparked more controversy than those of the past, the event itself ran smoothly and established Trump as our 45th president.

Story by Gillian Marton and Makayla Manning

News • Trump’s Inauguration 11

Design by Makayla Manning

March Heard ‘round the world

O

Women’s March on Washington D.C. leads to worldwide sister marches

nly one day after President Donald J. Trump’s inauguration, on Jan. 21, over 5 million men, women and children participated in a global women’s march.

The march spanned over seven continents and consisted of 600 sister march’s, including the main march that inspired the sister marches, the Women’s March on Washington D.C. With over 600,000 participants marching through the nation’s capitol, the Women’s March on Washington was one of the largest one-day protests in American history.

According to the Washington Post, Teresa Shook, a retired attorney living in Hawaii created the march by making a Facebook page with the help of some of her online friends.

The grandmother, explained that her feelings of uncertainty based on the presidential election results, inspired her to create the event. Originally, Shook only had 40 responses on Facebook, but within 24 hours the post received more than 10,000 responses.

According to the organizers’ official web page, the purpose of the march was to fight “for the protection of our rights, our safety, our health and our families–recognizing that our vibrant and diverse communities are the strength of our country.”

“Even though I was unable to go to the march, I thought it was pretty cool that both my mom and my little sister were able to go all the way to the one in Washington D.C.,” senior Karel Klos said. “There’s been a lot of debate and speculation about whether women completely have equal rights, but I think women do still have a reason to fight, and I am proud that my family was able to participate in such a dominating moment of American history.”

The Women’s March on Washington had a turnout that even the march’s organizers hadn’t predicted and was an important cultural moment that exceeded most participants’ expectations for the day.

The crowds stretched throughout Washington D.C. filling the city with an empowered and uplifting energy. For

“

in Miami more than 10,000 people listened to guest speakers presenting for the Women’s Rally of South Florida. These speakers discussed significant issues they felt that needed to be heard such as LGBTQ, immigation, women’s and environmental rights.

Not only did many South Florida supporters attend the march in Miami but also other marches in the area such as the march in West Palm Beach.

“Going to the women’s march was an amazing experience, and even though I couldn’t go to the one in Washington D.C., I still had an amazing time in West Palm Beach,” senior Stephanie Benson said. “It was very inspiring to be around so many like-minded people who are passionate about women’s rights, like me. Seeing all these people come together for one common goal and sentiment filled me with hope and inspired me to keep it up, to continue to participate in democracy, to not let my voice be silenced. As CoPresident and Co-Founder of MSD Politics Club, it was an especially relevant thing to be doing, as participation in democracy is key to politics and the government in the United States as we know it.”

Two thousand marchers were in attendance at the Meyer Ampitheater as and activists who could not attend the they listened to guest speakers and waved march took to social media to express flags reflecting on their desire for equality. their love and support for the event.

“It was really empowering to see so Although the march was not directly many people come together peacefully and sprung from Trump’s presidency, it was stand up for what they believe in,” senior a testament to the undeniable freedom for women’s varying rights, a component Luciany Capra, who attended the West Palm Beach march, said. of liberty many citizens believed to Through an age of expressive be threatened due to antagonizing comments that were said during Trump’s individualism, the march represented a campaign by both Trump and some of his social movement with the potential to influence civilians at home and abroad. supporters.

Throughout history, grassroots movements Even though the Women’s March on have led to progressive changes in Washington was the most publicized of diplomacy and representation of others in the day, there were other sister marches the country, as evidenced through the Civil that stretched through cities across the Rights Movement. globe including Boston, Los Angeles, March organizers sought to inspire Salt Lake City, Paris and Chicago. Thirty people on an expedition ship in Antarctica people to participate more in government and resist political agendas that they also organized their own on-ship protest disagree with. Vast changes can occur in support. through grassroots movements, which made Several Florida cities participated in many protesters, who oppose the president solidarity with the Women’s March on and his administration, hopeful. Story by Washington.

Makayla Manning At the Bayfront Park Amphitheater many of the participants it was the first time they felt hopeful since election day.

“I think this election cycle really showed me that people need to be willing to speak up for the truth,” English teacher Catherine Posada said. “Part of the reason that I went to the march was for women’s rights and a lot of different people’s rights may be started to overlooked again. It was the most overwhelmingly positive experience I have ever had since people were hugging each other and officers were giving us high fives. Even the people who were protesting against the march did so in a very nice and productive way.”

Throughout the city’s streets, marchers and demonstrators chanted and held posters depicting witty and often comedic posters regarding campaign comments and popular internet memes.

Some famous faces who attended the Women’s March on Washington included Katy Perry, Zendaya, Olivia Wilde, Amy Schumer and Paul Rudd. The celebrities

It was the most overwhelmingly positive experience...since people were hugging each other and officers were giving us high fives.

12 News • Women’s March on Washington

More Than Los Angeles 3.3 Million People Joined women’s Washington, D.C. marches in more New York Than 500 Cities Boston across the U.S.

R.E.S.P.E.C.T. Protesters march across the capitol on Jan. 21 holding signs that mock President Trump’s tendency to tweet false statements and demand respect for women. Photo by Makayla Manning

175 400 600 750

March Madness

”

750,000

600,000

400,000

175,000

Source: The Hill

Photo by Makayla Manning

Manning

Sources: Tallahassee Democrat WUSF News USA Today WPTV

St. Petersburg 20,000

West Palm Beach 2,000

That’s Not Kool. Protesters march with signs supporting public schools and the Affordable Care Act on Jan. 21 during the Women’s March on Washington. Photo by Makayla Manning

Manning

44+30+224A

Florida Residents Participate IN LOCAL Sister Marches

Think Before You Tweet. A marcher waves a vibrant sign during the Women’s March on Washinton criticizing President Trump for his frequent tweets. Fact-checking has shown that many of President Trump’s tweets are inaccurate or outright false. Photo by Makayla

Tallahassee 14,000 Miami 10,000

There were London an Estimated 600 Toronto Sister Marches in 57 Countries Sydney Around the Amsterdam World

3 5 6 100

Walking in her Shoes. Three male marchers head towards the main event platform, with a mass of protesters following closely behind them. The men wore bright neon signs over their chests to demonstrate their support for women’s rights. Photo by Makayla

100,000

6,000

5,000 3,000

Sources: CNN USA Today

News • Women’s March on Washington 13

Design by Kaitlyn Falness

Brian Laudanno “The Saint” Office: (954)-354-1663 4171 West Hillsboro Blvd. Suite 9 Cell: (954)-328-7139 Coconut Creek FL. 33073 Fax: (888)-361-2634 Serving Florida & New York brian.laudanno@connectmyinsurance.com www.TheInsuanceSaint.com

Carvel at Heron Lakes 5261 Coral Ridge Dr Coral Springs, FL 33076 (954)-757-2760

DO YOU NEED SERVICE HOURS? THE CORAL SPRINGS CHIEFS NEED YOU! We need volunteers from late February through April to help with setting up the field, keeping score and selling merchandise at youth lacrosse games at North Community Park in Coral Springs (Just next door to Douglas).

The Cohen Law Firm, P.A. 1700 University Drive, Suite 210 Coral Springs, FL 33071 600 SELKS RUN, SUITE 2270

HALLANDALE BEACH, FL 33009

(954)-455-8030

http://www.waxcenter.com/

14 Advertisements

Start Your Free Consultation 1-800-57-COHEN (1-800-572-6436)

Design by Lily Skopp

Let’s Talk about Sex Implementation of Broward County School Board sex education policy proves slow

W

hile Florida is known to all as the “Sunshine State,” it has also recently become synonymous with something much darker: STDs. According to The Miami Herald, Florida leads the nation in new STD cases, specifically in HIV and AIDS. Broward County holds the second highest rate of HIV infections in the state, trailing MiamiDade county by a slim margin.

According to the CDC, education reduces STD and HIV infection. Broward County Public schools, like Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School, have the opportunity to provide their students with information as a way to protect their sexual health.

“It is very important to learn sexual education in schools since many children are not taught at home by their parents,” Dr. Mark Stavitsky, pediatrician at Children’s Medical Association said.

“Dangers include getting sexually transmitted diseases such as Chlamydia, Gonorrhea, HIV, Hep C, Syphilis or having an unplanned pregnancy.”

Florida policy standards include the mission “to motivate students to maintain and improve their health, prevent disease and avoid or reduce health related risk behaviors.” Despite this, a recent University of Florida study concluded that “sex education in Florida schools varies widely [and is] not available to all students.”

“We would like to see comprehensive education policies and programs across all school districts in Florida,” Karyll Scott Honeycutt, community health educator of Planned Parenthood of South, East and North Florida, said.

Some districts, however, are working proactively to combat STDs through their own policies. Aware of the problems posed by rising STD rates, the Broward County School Board unanimously passed Policy 5315 on May 6, 2014.

The policy centers on comprehensive, age and developmentally appropriate, medically accurate and evidence-informed curriculum.

The information is based on age, race, color, disability, gender identity and expression, marital status and sex or sexual orientation and is geared towards impacting students in kindergarten through 12th grade.

“Before 5315 [we taught] abstinence plus, but now it is comprehensive,” Sebrina James, instructional facilitator, sexual health for Broward County Public Schools, said. “Abstinence is the only 100 percent way to make sure you don’t get an STD, but Broward is second in new HIV cases and high in other STDs. We need to make sure we are doing everything we can.”

The policy is supported by Planned Parenthood, an organization selfdescribed as “a leader in sexual and reproductive health.”

“

“Planned Parenthood supports the work of Broward County School’s commitment to sexuality education.

Planned Parenthood’s knowledge of Broward County’s sexual education policy is extensive. As a collaborator on the initial passage of this policy, we are proud to be a part of such a vital role for young people and their families in our school system,” Honeycutt said. “The updated and revised policy aligns with the National Sexuality and Education Standards.”

The policy enables teachers to apply a more hands on approach in teaching sexual education. The watershed development is the ability to use condom demonstrations in the classroom, which was previously not allowed. However, this has not been employed at MSD thus far—although the policy was enacted almost three years ago. But, the lapse does not mean that there will not be demonstrations seen in the classroom in the near future.

“There are so many more things we can do now,” Elisa Williamson, health department head, said. “I am glad we can use condom demonstrations; it provides a more visual and realistic representation.”

In addition to expanding the curriculum, Policy 5315 states that “each school shall provide... sexual health education in grades K-12.”

“The policy is comprehensive and inclusive and aims to meet the needs of all Broward County students,” Honeycutt said.

However, while the mandated K-12 education is picturesque when it comes to teaching sexual education, this is not the reality. The first of the problems includes the limited time devoted to the topic.

“We have a challenging environment in HOPE, in that we have about 48 freshman

By the Book. Along with textbook material, Policy 5315 allows educators to employ a visual approach with education on contraceptives. Photo illustration by Liam Hutton

the lack of education is astounding. Just between my friends and I, the fact that people don’t fully understand about their bodies and their partner’s bodies is terrible. It’s completely unacceptable. No teacher has ever brought up this kind of information since my freshman year. We have passed puberty and are in a whole world of other things, but nobody is discussing it with us.”

Yet, this may be subject to change.

After attending a recent workshop with peer counseling teacher Lauren Rubenstein, Williamson hopes to take the information she learned to other departments to expand the base of sex education. This endeavor is supported by MSD administration.

“We are talking about expanding that into other subject areas that we can then [per class] that we have to teach this topic incorporate to upperclassmen as well— I to and a limited time to do it,” Assistant would assume through science,” Principal Athletic Director Marilyn Rule said. “That Ty Thompson said. doesn’t give us the proper environment In addition, Florida Virtual School to really handle some sensitive topics that classes are required to adhere to state might come up. I think this is something legislation, but are not bound to county the school and the county could take a standards. If one takes HOPE and biology look at.” through FLVS, they may not be exposed Health opportunities through physical to Policy 5315. Therefore, they are not education and biology courses are the guaranteed the same comprehensive only required classes with lessons in education that BCPS students receive. human life and sexuality at the moment.

However, electives, such as anatomy Therefore, there isn’t a current curriculum and physiology and psychology that touch for upperclassmen in regards to sexual on the reproductive system, are available education. for both individuals who have opted out “I believe in middle school and of the BCPS HOPE and biology courses, elementary school, the sexual education as well as upperclassmen who are not we are given starts off on a great note,” receiving sexual education, due to the fact senior Abby Brafman said. “But when we that there is no established curriculum reach high school and are in the point and for them in place. But, since these classes time that many people start practicing, are electives and not required, there is no

Just between my friends and I, the fact that people don’t fully understand about their bodies and their partner’s bodies is terrible. It’s completely unacceptable.

”

way to ensure that every student at MSD receives a complete education in sexual health, although the county policy makes it clear that this “shall” occur in grades K-12.

“Regardless someone is going to be left out,” Thompson said. “But, we are going to figure out the best laid plans to make sure that we are trying to educate our kids and make the best impact.”

In addition, while talking about expansion is one thing, it cannot be considered a significant step until put into action. Since Policy 5313 is enforced at the discretion of the school, there is no guarantee that this expansion will occur.

“The curriculum changed across the board,” Rubenstein said. “It is designed to be rolled out the entire year—not just one lesson, not just one unit. It goes in through HOPE classes, biology and anatomy and physiology. So unless at the high school level you are enrolled in these classes, this curriculum is not going to be hit, if you are not enrolled in it. [Also], by choosing to leave the Broward school system and taking a class online, you are choosing to be not susceptible to the same lessons.”

This confusion and lack of action can be contributed to the difficulty in implementing a new district policy. But, with the almost three-year anniversary of Policy 5315 coming up in May, some believe change is due soon.

“I would like to be educated in these kinds of things when I’m an upperclassman,” sophomore Jenna Weissman said. “I think this is something my peers and I definitely need to know before we go all go off to college.”

BCPS has taken a proactive stand in regards to sexual education with Policy 5315. To continue this approach, it is up to MSD administration and faculty to enforce their plans of greater outreach. Story by Lily Skopp

News • Sex Education 15

Design by Kaitlyn Falness

Grateful J’s

SUPPORTS EDUCATION 10627 Wiles Road, Coral Springs, FL 33076 954.688.6965 Monday – Saturday 10-10pm, Sunday 11-7pm 16 Advertisements

Design by Amit Dadon

Edit profile

Eagle Eye MSD @EagleEyeMSD

eagleeye.news

Parkland, FL

941 FOLLOWING

870 FOLLOWERS

Tweets

Media

Young, Social and Misguided

W

orldwide, over 2.3 billion people use social media in some form. Just under 254 million use it in the United States alone—roughly 78 percent of the country’s population. Its use has grown exponentially, from slightly less than a billion users in 2010, to estimations projecting nearly 3 billion users by the end of the decade. According to the web traffic-analyzing company Alexa Internet, as of December 2016, 8 of the top 25 most visited and used websites in the world were social media sites.

In its purest form, social media tangibly benefits us by connecting the world in a way never before seen, enabling us to have our voices heard and our cultures understood, while also hearing those who were previously too distant for this to be possible.

However, a platform this large and impactful cannot remain completely pure forever.

With the emergence of the internet in the late 1980s and early 1990s, people around the world were provided with a powerful, budding platform that had the potential to connect them to a greater degree than even the telephone could. During that time, chat rooms became increasingly popular, although they were still rather devoid of personal detail—if not entirely anonymous.

Then, in 1997, the website SixDegrees.com emerged with what were at the time revolutionary concepts: online friends lists, social circles, personal messaging and bulletin-style posting— making it the true predecessor to modern social media. Other platforms soon followed: Friendster in 2002, MySpace and LinkedIn in 2003, Facebook in 2004, YouTube and Reddit in 2005, Twitter in 2006, Instagram in 2010, Snapchat in 2011 and countless other outlets, all serving slightly differentiated and generally overlapping audiences. the benefits Of Social Media From a positive perspective, social media helps facilitate increased, positive communication and interaction between both near and distant people around the world and amongst its billions of users.

Any of us can see this by simply going on our phones, opening any one of our multiple accounts and scrolling along our online timelines and profiles.

In a computational social science study

Likes

Social media becomes a double-edged sword

to tell. Not only has social media wholeheartedly embedded itself in our culture and everyday life, but it is now rather difficult to imagine a world without smartphones and social networking sites.

In the episode of the British speculative anthology series “Black Mirror,” entitled “Nosedive,” the sometimes dark, obsessive relationship between humans and technology is examined—particularly in the context of social life. The episode is based in a dystopian reality where the nature of every interaction between individuals is rated in a constantly changing score on an app, contributing to each person’s overall “ranking” in society.

Upon meeting someone new, you can immediately see their ranking, encouraging citizens to attempt to “out-nice” each other to improve their social status; this status is portrayed as the most important aspect of the hypothetical future society. The true horror of this eerie episode lies in the realistic way that this satirical piece compares to our everyday life.

This Netflix series, which according to creator Charlie Brooker is so named after the black, “cold, shiny screens” of our cellphones, computers and televisions that we’re so deeply attached to, emphasizes an ongoing message of the fact that technology reflects the darkest elements of humanity. While some episodes of the show are set in futuristic worlds, the most troubling ones seem to shine a light on the uncomfortable situations that society continues to experience with social media.

“Nosedive” stands as a testament to how self-curation and validation-seeking, as offered through various outlets of social media, has come to haunt our lives. According to a study

by The New York Times best-selling authors Joseph Grenny and David Maxfield, people will deliberately remove themselves from a fun situation in order to write a status update or post a photo that they think will get them extra “likes” on social media. tOO MUCH SCREEN TIME? There is a diligent inclination for our It would be fairly ignorant to attempt to proclaim that there is only good in social media. It’s generation to ensure that our Instagram, Facebook, Snapchat and Twitter feeds are always evident that social media has greatly changed the human experience—but as to whether the positives updated at every moment of every day, further of these changes outweigh the negatives, it is hard proving that in today’s society, we are utterly published in September 2015 in the PeerJ Computer Science journal, the content and sharing-activity of more than 19 million English tweets in September of the past year were examined. The study found that although negative tweets did spread and gain attention faster, positive tweets generally ended up being seen and taken in by larger audiences.

The study, conducted by computer scientists Emilio Ferrara​and Zeyao Yang of the University of Southern California and Indiana University, respectively, found that people tend to prefer and favor sharing—in this case, retweeting, quoting and favoriting—positive content as opposed to negative content.

One benefit of social media is its increasing use for political and social awareness and the sharing and dissemination of breaking news, opinions, thoughts and even political policies.

“For me, social media is definitely beneficial because it gives me the freedom to speak my mind and express myself to the fullest, and that’s something that’s very important to me,” junior Sunveer Virk said. “It helps me keep up with my favorite sports teams and has continued to make me more and more politically aware in a time where that has become quite necessary.”

According to Twitter, from the start of the first partisan primary presidential debates in August 2015 to this past Election Day in November 2016, people in the U.S. posted over 1 billion tweets about the election, illustrating just how large a role social media has taken in U.S. politics. Tweeting thoughts and feelings, snapchatting daily activities and instagramming favorite pictures allows one to socialize, express art, share ideas and feelings and relieve stress.

“I have a lot of followers and many people that I follow, too, and I think that being so connected allows us to better see and understand the different viewpoints, feelings and opinions of others,” Virk added. “It truly helps to bring us together.”

Feature • Social Media 17

fixated on an alternative reality. We spend hours with our phones outstretched in our hands, determined to capture the perfect selfie to post or to tweet a perfect idea, only to be overcome with dissatisfaction when we don’t receive a significant amount of likes and comments from our peers. Grenny and Maxfield have dubbed users that seek out positive reinforcement through their social media accounts, “social media trophy hunters.” Their study found that 14 percent of respondents were willling to risk their own safety for their social media accounts.

The study by Greeny and Maxfield also found that an obsession with social media is correlated with higher levels of unhappiness.

“If our attention is on an invisible audience rather than the present moment, we are disconnected,” Maxfield said in a March 2015 Vital Smarts press release.

“Our devices are beginning to control our attention and motivations in ways we may not even realize.”

A Nielsen Company report revealed that adults in the United States devoted about 10 hours and 39 minutes each day to consuming media in the first quarter of this year. Additionally, a recent study conducted by the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine found that teen users spend an average of one hour a day on social media alone and visit their social

18 Feature • Social Media

media accounts roughly 30 times per week.

That same study found that the more time young adults spend on various social media sites and applications, the more likely they are to exhibit certain symptoms of depression.

As shown in an article published on Psychology Today’s website by Dr. Victoria L. Dunckley, an award-winning integrative child psychiatrist, neuroimaging research through brain scans has indicated that too much screen time, damages various parts of the brain.

According to StopBullying.gov, a government website managed by the Department of Health and Human Services, students who are bullied on social media exhibit heavier reliance on alcohol and drugs, miss more school, experience inperson bullying, receive poorer grades, have more health problems and possess notably lower self-esteem.

“My grades definitely dropped a lot—I had mostly C’s and I missed at least one day of school per week,” Doe* said. “I hated the idea of being in school and having to face the girls that were single-handedly cyberbullying making my life miserable.”

Negativity in social media arises In the 2013 National Crime not only from its overuse, but also Victimization Survey conducted by the from its intentional misuse. Known as Department of Education, data showed cyberbullying, the use of such online sites that out of the population of 25 million to purposefully mock, harass, bully, abuse students between 12-18 years old, 7 and hurt others has a greater effect on percent—or 1.7 million students— reported adolescents than it may seem. having been cyberbullied. Females report “In middle school, my life was a noticeably higher rate than males. This is filled with nothing but struggle due something that affects students in Broward to the cyberbullying that I constantly County, too, with student cyberbullying experienced from my so-called ‘friends’ experienced at rates greater than the almost every day,” junior Jane Doe* said. national level.

“It seemed like there were countless tweets In the District’s 2015 Youth Risk about me, rude texts and shady Instagram Behavior Survey, of nearly 1,400 high posts almost every day created and sent school students questioned, 12.5 percent with the intention of hurting my feelings said that they have been bullied and with comments like ‘you don’t have any harassed online, with nearly 1 in 6 females friends,’ ‘you’re fat’ and ‘find some new reporting that they have been targeted friends because we don’t want you.’” directly, as opposed to 1 in 11 males.

“Data can only show us numbers, so we can only guess as to why girls have such higher reported rates of cyberbullying than boys,” Aimee Wood, Prevention Specialist at the Diversity, Prevention & Intervention Department of Broward County Public Schools, said. “I would think it relates at least in part to basic differences in gender, such as different societal expectations of behavior, emotional tendencies, and general temperament. It’s hard to tell.”

Broward County Public Schools adopted Anti-Bullying Policy 5.9 on July 22, 2008.

The policy defines the various types of bullying, outlines school reporting prodecures and denotes consequences.

The policy follows Florida Statute 1006.147.

However, the school can only enforce consequences for incidents that occur using school technology or occur during school hours or at school-related activities.

“It can be very challenging for the District and its schools to stop cyberbullying, as the majority of it is occurring in the home and not on the school grounds—generally, we are only able to investigate them and intervene,” Wood said. “Almost always, both the parents of the abusers and of the victims are completely unaware of what has been going on, and having the hurtful behavior brought to light usually helps to end it.

From there, the families can pursue any action—legal, civil, in-school, or even

*Name indicated was changed to protect student’s anonymity

Design by Amit Dadon

Photo illustration by Liam Hutton

audience just sat back and watched her take her own life.

Venant’s death isn’t even the first case of this occurring—in fact, hers was the second of three suicides to be livestreamed in less than a month. Last year on Dec. 30, 12-year-old Katelyn Nicole Davis in Cedartown, Georgia hung herself in her front yard in a 40-minute video which was posted to a site called, “Live.me.”

The day after Venant’s tragic death, a 33-year-old named Frederick Jay Bowdy in Los Angeles, California shot himself also on Facebook Live after telling his watchers that he was going to commit suicide. crying out for help This is not just occuring in the United Recently some individuals have used States, either; in May of 2016, a 19-yearsocial media as a method to call out for old woman in the south of France threw help. On Jan. 22, 2017, 14-year-old Naika herself in front of a train, recording her Venant from Miami Gardens died after death on Periscope. hanging herself from a scarf attached With the rise of smartphones and to her shower door—a horrific and devastating action that she simultaneously social media in recent years, capturing and sharing violent incidents has unfortunately broadcasted on Facebook Live.

According to one of her friends, almost become more and more common—but a thousand people watched her for nearly this only depicts how likely people are to just sit back and watch the tragedy occur an hour as she prepared to kill herself, as opposed to helping those in need. calling her names and reacting to the broadcast with laughing emojis. When she Suicide is not only a form of violence was eventually found and taken to Jackson against yourself, but it’s also a cry out for help—posting the act on social media only North Hospital in North Miami, almost magnifies this.

3,000 comments had been posted on the According to Luxton, June and Fairall video of her suicide before it was closed.

Venant may have chosen to do so in a vain one of the main concerns with suicide and self-harm videos is that they can normalize attempt to be noticed, but instead, her none.”

According to “Social Media and Suicide: A Public Health Perspective”–by David D. Luxton, Jennifer D. June and Jonathan M. Fairall–victims of cyberbullying are almost 2 times more likely to attempt suicide. Cyberbullies themselves were 1.5 times more likely to attempt suicide.

Cyberbullying “can increase risk of suicide by amplifying feelings of isolation, instability, and hopelessness for those with preexisting emotional, psychological, or environmental stressors.”

• Broward County 211 Hotline Dial 211 or 754-537-0211 Confidential 24/7 free hotline • School Social Worker Marianne Dubin • Peer Counseling Room 211 • A trusted teacher or adult • A parent or guardian and reinforce this type of behavior. Their article calls for more research on ther “extent of social media’s negative and positive influences.”

In a world where we are all but defined by the social media sites that have come to serve as the “highlight reels” of our everyday lives, it’s easy to start feeling defined by the things that we choose to post. Our profiles offer a distorted sense

• Broward County Department of Prevention and Intervention 754-321-1655 • Administrator • Local law enforcement • School Resource Officer Deputy Scot Peterson • Head of School Security Kelvin Greenleaf of reality, and this can undoubtedly take a toll on users. The validation from likes and comments can provide lasting negative effects on people who frequent the sites and have come to depend on the feeling they get from getting this online attention.

While social media has some benefits, the negative side of it without a doubt makes it a double-edged sword. Story by Amit Dadon and Alexa Kravitz

Feature• Social Media 19

Design by Gage Collamore

- The History of -

Social Media

1970 First E-mail travels between two computers

acebook Spotify Music streaming

Takes over the social network kingdom in

2004 15% of the worlds population

uses Facebook monthly

LIVEJOURNAL was created in

2000 friendster

became the first popular

social network

Launched in 2003 20 Feature • Social Media

Instagram

Known for their

The blogging era

& Blogger

2010 Launched in 2008

2005 Over 6 billion hours of

of video are watched a month

made its first tweet in

2006 100,000 tweets are made each second

square frame photos

ine

Was created in

2013 Introducing 7-second

short videos snapchat

Hits mobile in 2015

With disappearing photos and videos

Design by Robert Schentrup

What G es Online Stays Online Students’ social media profiles give admissions officers a better understanding of who they are aside from their GPA and class rank, as listed in their applications. College admissions officers gain the ability to see how prospective he saying that once you post students present themselves to others in something on social media it public, rather than just how they appear stays there forever is no longer on their application. This can help them a warning for those worried about decide whether or not a student is an how their posts may affect their social acceptable fit for their school, as well as life, but now it can also affect the if the student’s image matches with the ability of students to get into colleges. schools image.

Colleges have begun to utilize sites like In 2012, while attending a campus Facebook, Instagram and Twitter to track informational session for Bowdoin prospective students.

A student’s social media profile factors College, a student began to tweet negative comments regarding the school. The into whether or not they get accepted admissions office at Bowdoin was soon into certain colleges. The process of made aware of the student’s tweets, looking at prospective students’ social ultimately resulting in the student being media accounts as a way to further denied from the school. examine them has become a common “We would have wondered about the practice amongst admissions officers. judgment of someone who spends their According to a study done by time on their mobile phone making such IvyWise, 27 percent of admissions awful remarks,” Scott A. Meiklejohn, the officers surveyed admitted to Googling former dean of admissions at Bowdoin, prospective students. In addition, when said in a 2013 interview with The New observing students’ online activities, 35 York Times. percent of those surveyed uncovered Social media posts were not the only something that negatively impacted an applicant’s likelihood of getting accepted thing that led to the student getting denied. Meiklejohn said that the student’s to the school.

Colleges factor social media posts into college admissions process

T

grades were lacking as well; however, if her credentials had been better, her tweets could have potentially affected her chances of getting into their school.

Still, this situation shows the power of social media and how one’s posts have the ability to affect their college admissions.

“I think that if a student makes questionable comments online, especially in regards to a school, that school should be allowed to factor those posts into whether or not a student is accepted into their school,” sophomore Crystal Tang said.

New websites and apps have been created to help students and adults alike to clean up their social media accounts before applying to colleges and for jobs. The website The Social U provides students with their so called “social media GPA.” With the help of websites and apps like these, students are given an idea of how appealing their social media profiles would be to various colleges so they can delete such posts from their accounts.

In addition to these websites, some students receive help from their school guidance counselors to remove controversial content from their social medias. According to The New York

S ay Off my Social Colleges overstep boundaries using social media as admission factor

I

n the modern era, the advent of social media sites such as Snapchat, Facebook and Instagram enable people to share their thoughts, feelings and everyday routine with people all around the world.

This growing connectivity allows us to stay in contact with loved ones and friends, creating a growing personal connection.

However, all this information-sharing eventually comes with a downside.

Social media allows for people who we may not know to learn an abundance of personal details about us. From birthdays, to our favorite color, to what we ate for dinner last night, much of what we post and share on social media is up for anyone to see, whether we think about it or not.

This wealth of personal knowledge that we amass for personal benefit as well as for our followers can often be found with a simple Google search, making it a prime tool for college admissions officers looking to learn about their potential students.

Colleges are always looking to recruit students who they think would fit well on their campus and while adding something special to the student body, and social media is a very effective way of letting them both connect with prospective students as well as keeping them informed on important issues. But this also works in reverse; the public, open nature of social media provides admissions officers with a way to delve deeper into your personal life, regardless of if you would want them to or not.

This raises many privacy concerns, such as whether colleges should be able to reject a student based on something personal they posted on social media, and

whether they should even be allowed to look at an applicant’s social media without expressed permission.

This is not a small issue, either. In a 2012 survey of 386 of the nation’s top colleges and universities by Kaplan Test Prep, about 40 percent of admissions officers said that they visit applicants’ social media pages for part of their assessment. In addition, 35 percent discovered information online that negatively affected an applicant’s prospects, and unsurprisingly, yet potentially devastating statistic.

With no specific guidelines in place for assessing applicants’ social media accounts nor its place in the admissions process, the weight of any findings is completely up to the admissions officers.

“Often, false and misleading content online is taken as fact. To me, it’s a huge problem,” Bradley S. Shear, a lawyer specializing in social media law, said in an interview with The New York Times.

Colleges could easily stumble upon a profile of someone with the same name as you showing illegal activities, yet with no connection to you whatsoever. What is even worse is that colleges don’t have to state whether or not something they saw on social media was the reason for an applicant’s rejection.

This infringes upon student’s basic right to privacy. Colleges should respect that right and stay off applicant’s social media unless those applicants give them expressed permission to do so. Viewing students’ profiles erodes trust between applicants and the institution.

One example of online material costing a student admission was when an undergraduate at Pitzer College in Claremont, California, befriended a prospective student on Facebook and soon after, went and notified the admissions

Digital Footprints

office because he noticed that the applicant had posted offensive comments about one of his high school teachers.

“We immediately knew that this was not the kind of person we wanted in our community,” Angel B. Perez, Pitzer’s dean of admission and financial aid, said to The New York Times. “We didn’t admit the student.”

While the student’s comment may have been offensive, the issue with using such posts in the admissions process is that the student never gets the chance to explain any issues; maybe it was simply a joke in bad taste, or maybe the comment not meant to be taken seriously.

Colleges must stop such practice, and stay out of students’ personal online lives, because the image that people portray online is often not who they truly are. All that is needed to evaluate applicants is the information that they provide. Our online lives should remain private in order to protect ourselves from potential discrimination and violation of our privacy. Any schools that do decide to hold students accountable for what they post online need to make it clear to the applicant that their online profiles will be under evaluation just as much as their essay. Just because colleges can look, does not mean that they should. Editorial by Robert Schentrup

Confident creative

This group does not worry about the availability of its online data. Members actively uploads content, but still takes steps to limit their personal information.

17%

Times, upcoming college students at Brookline High School in Massachusetts are taught to remove posts relating to alcohol from their accounts, as well as to construct appropriate email addresses.

However, even though students possess various resources to perfect their social media presence, when it comes to college applications, some students find the addition of social media to the list of things they must fret over to be unnecessary.

“Students have enough to worry about when it comes to getting into college as is. I don’t think they should be forced to worry about their social media in addition to everything else,” sophomore Caroline Haight said.

Though some may protest its involvement, the use of social media in the admissions process is undeniably becoming a more common practice.

As the prominence of social media in everyday life continues to grow, more and more colleges have begun to utilize it to aid in the admissions process.

As the importance of social media continues to progress, students are warned to think before they post, as it may later affect their chances of getting into college. Story by Taylor Morrison

Concerned & careful This group worries about the availability of their information online data.

The members of this group proactively limit their digital footprint.

21%

Sources: Pew Research Center and Family Online Safety Institute

47% 60%

have searched information about themselves

are worried about their information being online

3/4 self searchers have checked on their digital footprint once or twice 1/4 of internet users say photos, groups they belong to or things they have written are online 1/3 of internet users say their address, phone number or employer is online

1

CLEAN IT UP

Search Yourself Online.

Do a quick web search of your name. If you find something you don’t like, ask the individual or site administer to remove the post.

Think Before You Post.

Your digital footprint is more than the information available about you on the web; it’s about your interactions too. Before you put anything online, ask yourself if it’s something you really want others to see or know about you.

2

Maintain Your Mobile Device.

Take time to understand your mobile device settings and set a password. Review any apps you’ve downloaded and their information-sharing policies.

Delete ones you just don’t use.

3

4

Build A Positive Reputation.

Use your online presence to build a positive reputation for yourself and inspire others. Start a blog about the good things happening in your community or make a virtual fundraising campaign for a cause you’re passionate about.

worried by the wayside

The members of this group are anxious about how much information is available about them.

They do not actively limit their online information.

18%

Unfazed & inactive

These group members do not worry about their personal information, nor take steps to limit the amount of info that can be found about them.

43%

Feature • Social Media 21

Š2017 California Closet Company, Inc. All rights reserved. Franchises independently owned and operated.

Design by Kaitlyn Falness

Experience a California Closets system custom designed specifically for you and the way you live.

Visit us online today to arrange for a complimentary in-home design consultation.

californiaclosets.com P O M PAN O B EAC H

Advertisement 22 FL036_EagleEye_Tisbury_9x12.7_1216.indd

1

290 SW 12th Ave., Ste. 7

954.946.2218

12/5/16 3:29 PM

Design by Taylor Morrison

Express y urself

A

lexandra Robinson may seem like just another average junior at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School—that is, if the average junior has a YouTube channel with nearly 200,000 subscribers.

After experiencing troubles with social life her freshman year at St. Thomas Aquinas High School, she decided to start her own YouTube channel to talk about her problems. Robinson transferred to MSD in 2015 and began using her YouTube channel as a form of bonding with friends, relieving stress and finding positivity Robinson started off only wishing to achieve a goal of 1,000 subscribers over a year ago. Due to her sudden popularity on the website, Robinson became more serious about getting acting jobs. She is currently in the process of writing her own comedy series.

If one of the companies she submits her series to accepts it, then Robinson will also be able to act in her creation.

Robinson has had some screen time however, as she was interviewed for the

TV show “The Ultimate Fighter” and was put in for a quick cameo scene.

Robinson meets new and different people as a result of her YouTube account.

Like every celebrity, she gets both positive and negative comments. The positive ones are part of why she works so hard on her channel, specifically comments like “this made my day.”

“Youtube has become my way of spreading positivity in a world that dearly needs more,” Robinson said.

On the other hand, there are internet trolls who comment hateful thoughts, Robinson finds some amusing and others harsh. According to Robinson, she disregards the mean-spirited words of strangers and does not let the hate affect her.

“When I get comments saying I made someone’s day better, it’s such a gratifying feeling. I know that there was a time when I needed that positivity, so I want to make sure anyone who needs it can have it,” Robinson said.

YouTube stars with millions of

Alexandra Robinson accumulates over 200,000 subscribers on YouTube

subscribers often make collaboration videos with other YouTube stars. On May 5, 2016, Robinson found YouTube user Wolfieraps, who has over 4.4 million subscribers, in Miami and made a collaboration video with him. The worldwide gathering of all YouTubers at Playlist Live is this May in Orlando.

Robinson will attend it and be able to meet other popular YouTubers.

As a young YouTuber, Robinson has the support of her family. She is the youngest in not only her immediate, but also her extended family. Despite this, not everyone in her family takes her channel seriously; they are pushing her towards a more traditional college experience.

“The only reason I would go to college is to become a director,” Robinson said.

“I would go to NYU if I’m able to get in. I will definitely continue YouTube, though, because it can take me to different and higher platforms.”

Not everyone in her family views it the same way that Robinson does—as her job.

Robinson gets paid based on views, so that

Li ing a double lIFE

T

he average person in the United States checks their phone 46 times per day. Are you as addicted to your phone as most Americans? On average, most browse through a combination of five different social media platforms. The original purpose of a cell phone is entirely overlooked; although we still call and text, we are more focused on our friend’s Facebook statuses. Society has painted a picture of perfected people and personalities all through the use of the media. We are all supposed to experience extravagant lives, be positive and look like Victoria’s Secret angels on top of it.

It has become part of our daily routines to stay updated on the exposure each social media platform contains. It is inevitable that the younger generation will forever be in “share mode,” waiting for more substance to capture and later

post. This is intended to gain attention and positive feedback, such as a “like” or a flattering comment. Society seems to rely on this attention as a form of approval to essentially boost their self-esteem.

The concept of Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, etc. is generally appealing to all ages, genders and countries. Everyone around the globe is hooked on seeing visuals of puppies, babies and the cool cafe your classmate visited for lunch.

After meeting someone for the first time, it has been the norm for one to frantically search their social media.

It is the simplest way to discover their age, zodiac sign and favorite TV shows.

However, their top liked photo, last retweeted tweet and their follower count are now your first impression.

The majority of us only hit the post button on things we know will allure our audience. We might post a cool traveling

for every 1 million views, she earns $1,000.

Her most viewed video got up to 2 million views, earning Robinson $2,000.

“I have no plans of stopping [YouTube] right now,” Robinson said. “The only way I would ever stop it is if YouTube died down. I love YouTube, I love everything about it. My friends and I have made an even deeper connection through the videos.”

Alexandra Robinson continues to grow on social media with nearly 200,000 YouTube subscribers, 10,000 Instagram followers and over 3,800 Twitter followers.

Story by Einov Cohen. Photo illustration by Liam Hutton

Students should not alter social media persona to empower ego

experience, a really appetizing meal at a restaurant or a spontaneous night out with friends. We would not usually voluntarily snap a picture of a wild Friday night spent at home alone watching Netflix.

Based on what you scroll across, it is easy to create an unfair comparison between our lives. People choose to divulge the most celebratory moments in life, leading the viewing public to believe each day is just as luxurious as Kim Kardashian’s. Although we have a magical ability to make it seem this way, we unfortunately cannot use filters, hashtags and catchy captions when we engage with people in real life.

Comparing our lives to other’s lives is easily one of the biggest causes of insecurity. We are comparing our behindthe-scenes to another’s highlight reel.

Overall, we all know that we’re more likely to share an accomplishment rather than a

challenge we are facing. To test this theory, take a closer look at someone’s social media account that you know really well.

Likely, your prior knowledge of this person will not exactly match their online posts that enable viewers to envision a complete alternate perception of the kind of person they actually are. Social media is a game, and the potential to be anyone we want is why we are all so addicted.

The next time you examine the differences between yourself and another person, rather than it be through a glass screen, pay attention to physical encounters. Things that take place right before your eyes are what mean the most.

You will remember how a person makes you feel and can analyze their words and actions better in person, far more than you can from their photo editing skills and how clever their puns may be online. Editorial by Lauren Blodgett

FINSTA: F R FRIENDS ONLY

S

ophomore Lexi Ofstein’s public Instagram account with over 500 followers is filled with cute selfies, photos of her with her friends on vacation and from parties. However, the account is not telling the whole story.

Lexi is one of the many social media users who has a finsta, or an additional fake instagram account.

Around 2015, “finstas” started gaining popularity among teenagers. A finsta is a platform where one can post certain pictures that they would not necessarily post on their everyday Instagram account, or “rinsta.”

Teens create these accounts where they post about their daily lives or just anything on their minds. Having a finsta gives users a place to share their silly pictures, inside jokes, complaints, rants or anything not meant for public consumption. It is a place where they can put their guard down and not worry about

how many likes they will receive.

A very important aspect of a finsta is the username. Finsta usernames need to be creative, clever and usually have something to do with the user’s first or last name.

“I enjoy posting on my finsta because I can post whatever I want and no one can judge me,” sophomore Jocelyn Krooks said. “I also like to read what other people post, but sometimes people post a little too much which can get annoying.”

Finstas became really popular when Instagram started to allow users to remain automatically logged into multiple accounts. Before this update, users had to create an entirely new profile and log on and off to switch between them. Now, users can add up to five different accounts and manage them under one profile.

“On my finsta, I post pictures that represent my day and feelings in a positive and fun way,” junior Jenna Korsten said.

“I like that it lets my friends see the humorous side of me.”

According to The Huffington Post, even though many people have been making finsta accounts, the world of finsta seems to be dominated by females and teenagers.

Males use finstas, but it seems as if many more females have accounts than males.

“My favorite part about having a finsta is scrolling through my feed, laughing at everyone’s hilarious pictures,” freshman Dara Gottlieb said. “My finsta feed puts a smile on my face, so if I ever need any cheering up, I just scroll and laugh at everyone’s posts.”

Teenagers are excited to express their fears, feelings and secrets. Ironically, they do this by making finsta posts more real and Rinsta posts essentially fake.

Although there are many pros for having a finsta, there are also significant cons. Finstas often cause cyberbulling, or the use of electronic communication to

Students use fake accounts to share private lives

bully a person. This occurs when teens post their opinions on something or even just to embrace one’s alter-ego and it is often very difficult to prevent these situations.

Many parents do not exactly understand what the point of maintaining two Instagram accounts is. The pictures that teens post on their finsta are ones that they feel do not feel comfortable with sharing publicly. Most finstas are private accounts therefore teens know that only their close friends are able to view their posts.

Currently, many high school students have finstas and they continue to grow in popularity. For many teens, finstas fill a need that many have to rebel against all the norms of social media, and to fight against the pressure they feel to look perfect all the time. Story by Andrea Hengber

Feature • Social Media 23

Design by Kaitlyn Falness

3 FREE CLASSES evolutionyoga.com info@evolutionyoga.com facebook/evolutionyoga twitter @evolutionyogala instagram @evolutionyoga 6814 State Road 7 1225 Warm Springs Rd #120 Coconut Creek, FL 33073 Henderson, NV 89014 702.383.3001 954.421.0589

INK & TONER USA Discount ink and toner 561-296-4ink (4465) 561-296-4999 (fax) chirsch@inkandtonerusa.com www.inkandtonerusa.com

* INKJET * LASER * COPIER * FAX *

Located at 5771 Coral Ridge Drive Coral Springs, FL 33076 Contact us at (954)-752-3525

24 Advertisements

Design by Lily Skopp

Cutting The Cord

T

hroughout the past decade, the integration of streaming networks such as Netflix, Hulu Plus and Amazon Prime Instant Video into modern society has revolutionized the way individuals watch television. According to The New York Times, “streaming TV isn’t just a new way to watch. It’s a new genre.”

Yet, the adoption of these networks have come at the expense of cable sources.

One of the first major live-streaming events took place in 1999, when Victoria’s Secret aired a live webcast of their annual fashion show. This was just the beginning of how streaming would develop.

Originally, streaming was inconvenient, constantly lagging with a lot of static motion. Over time, however, between improved technology and internet, its quality has improved.

In addition, improved technology has resulted in faster internet connection.

Currently, Google defines streaming as “a method of transmitting or receiving data– especially video and audio material–over a computer network as a steady, continuous

flow, allowing playback to proceed while subsequent data is being received.”

However, this poses problems for the cable TV industry. According to eMarketer–a market research company that provides insights and trends related to digital marketing, media and commerce–about 23 percent of American households will not be subscribed to any type of cable service by 2019.

Afraid that the rate of cable customers will decrease due to a change of interest towards streaming networks, cable companies run the risk of future profit losses if this trend continues.

However, while there is a trend towards streaming over cable, usage of cable sources still outweighs streaming sources. Eighty-three percent of American homes have cable, while 50 percent of American homes have streaming technology.

Both cable television and streaming networks benefit different people in different ways. Cable television offers more live news. Streaming networks have

Consumers begin to make switch from cable to streaming networks

the advantage of virtually no waiting for the next episode or season.

The simplicity of being able to bingewatch a show without commercials wins most users over to streaming. The suspense of waiting a whole week to watch the next episode of one’s favorite show is completely eliminated as entire seasons can be viewed in a matter of just one sitting.

“I loved being able to watch so many [episodes], but was sad when it was over because I had nothing left to watch,” junior Nicolette Micciotta said.

In addition, running into advertisements is not an issue while streaming. This saves the viewer time, increasing the convenience of the experience.

“Watching shows on streaming websites like Netflix is so much better than watching them on TV; there are no commercials and you can keep watching as many episodes as you want,” sophomore Kayla Sanseverino said.

However, streaming a movie,

D A R U O Y D L U CO RE E H E B

documentary or TV show needs the support of a lasting wifi connection in order to work continuously without interruptions. “[Cable] is much more reliable and more efficient than streaming,” senior Zeke Leclerc said. “For instance, cable TV works directly without wifi whereas streaming networks will crash or buffer once they lose the smallest bit of signal.”

In addition, those who want instant reporting, like sports coverage, turn to cable news.

“Cable is more realistic. I’m a fan of real life news—I love watching live sports, college professionals, listening to the news like political updates and weather updates,” senior Daniel Grusky said.

In a poll of 600 Marjory Stoneman Douglas students, streaming was preferred over cable by 71 percent of students.

With streaming programs increasingly on the rise, only time will tell whether this popular innovation will take over oldfashioned cable systems. Story by Jordan

Laudanno and Sofia Cozzolino

Contact us at (954)-789-9323 or kaitlyn.falness@gmail.com for sizes and pricing.

Advertising with us is easy!

Greener Pest Solutions Inc. Total Lawncare, Fertilization & Pest Control

PO Box 936232 Margate, FL 33063 (954)687-6819

Entertainment • Streaming 25

Design by Kaitlyn Falness

Coral Springs Location: 6250 Coral Ridge Dr Coral Springs, FL 33076 (954) 510-0600 (954) 510-0602 (fax) CS@ScoreAtTheTop.com

26 Advertisement

Design by Amy Scarlata

Living Life in Color

O

n Saturday, Jan. 28, 2017, “The World’s Largest Paint Party” featuring some of the hottest DJ’s like Diplo, Marshmello, Seven Lions, Illenium, Mija, Solano, Bonnie X Clyde, Carnage, Tritonal, Desiigner, Ookay, Doctor P and Fresko pulsed through the Wynwood Arts District in Miami, Florida.

Dressed in white, energized fans waited to be sprayed with neon paint while bass from the stages set the festival tone. The day long event started at 2 p.m. and ended at 12 a.m.

When Cyber Monday rolled around, senior Jill Davis was already just one click away from her buying a Life In Color concert ticket. “Life In Color was definitely something I’ve never experienced before, something to truly appreciate,” Davis said.

“The atmosphere was energetic, loving and accepting. I personally loved Carnage, but I can’t pick a favorite song; they were all so great. I will definitely go there next year. It is not something I would wanna miss out on.”

Senior Sara Canola bought her LIC tickets at an affordable price using her promo code “sarakiut.” Canola sells tickets on her social media accounts, so friends can purchase their LIC tickets through her at a discounted price.

“Life In Color has always been really fun and energetic. Everyone was friendly, and it was an overall happy atmosphere.

My favorite DJ was Marshmallow because he has a great stage presence,” Canola said. “I carpooled with my friends parents, and I will definitely go again next year.”

The majority of the crowd took before and after pictures, displaying the splatter of paint that covered them on their way home, staining their carseats.

Many people won’t even wash their shirts and shoes that they wore, because they became a piece of art themselves. Fog and streamers filled the skies as the sun went down. Fans in the audience also were able to buy paint packs to spray up above the crowd.

Senior Gavin Silverman decided to dip his life in color last minute. He felt that the anticipation of going paid off the night of the event.

“For me, It was more fun wanting to go than actually going. I got there at 7 p.m. and when I arrived, my friends met up with me. It all matters who you go with because I had a really good time with them. There were a lot of people still dancing when I got there but some people around me were sitting on the floor probably because they were tired,” Silverman said. “I met great people

Miami booms with Life In Color music festival

including this one girl who showed me how to symbolize peace-love-acceptance with my hand. I left the event at 12 a.m. when it ended, then went to my friends hotel room then took an Uber home at 2 a.m. It was a great EDM experience I’ll never forget.”

Senior Hannah Bogart enjoyed her first time at the colorful event.

“Life In Color is always the best. I stayed the whole time for LIC. DJ Carnage was my all time favorite to perform on the paint covered stage. I made amazing memories with my friends,” Bogart said.

As evidenced by student reviews of the event, including pictures and the artists on stage, the festival was a success.

Vendors brought familiar and foreign food for people in the crowd to fill their stomachs during the day.

The versatile atmosphere and lifelong memories that Life In Color provides thousands of people with was the most special this year than ever before. As new DJ’s come and go, the energetic atmosphere stays the same and will only continue to grow. Story by Amy Scarlata

Colorful Companions. Seniors Hailey Fortson, Kayla Wymann, Hannah Bogart, Jenna Cohen and Amber Parascondo pose for a picture at the Life in Color concert. Photo courtesy of

Hannah Bogart

Colorful Companions

Hands Up, Worries Down Hands Up, Worries Down. Crazy crowd expresses their emotion through singing along to every lyric and dancing on the paint drenched Miami ground. Photo courtesy of Hannah Bogart

TAILGATES, CHILI and CAMO New year kicks off with Kiss 99.9’s Chili Cook-Off concert

O

n Sunday, Jan. 29, Kiss 99.9’s Annual Chili Cook-Off spiced up South Florida at CB Smith Park in Pembroke Pines. This chili eating event was filled with thousands of die-hard country music fans who broke out their camo hats and leather pointed boots to tailgate as early as 5:30 a.m. Gates opened at 8:30 a.m. to start the event with country music’s hottest artists such as Florida Georgia Line, Granger Smith, Chris Lane, Joe Nichols and Lee Brice, who provided quality entertainment for attendees.

Tents were set up at the venue with many different types of chili to try.

Alongside these tents was the Kiss 99.9 radio stand with well known DJ’s including Dina Bonanni, Darlene Evans and DJ Bryan. These stations contained games, tickets, shirts and a chance to meet Florida Georgia Line after the show.

The event has been held in South Florida grounds for the past 31 years.

Every year, MSD students who enjoy country music ask their friends all around campus for weeks if they would come and join their camouflaged wearin’ crowd.

This year, it was not a typical hot South Florida day. Reaching only 53 degrees and with overcast skies, people bundled up in blankets and jackets.

“It was fun until it got cold and wet and my pants ripped,” junior Rebecca Bogart said. “It wasn’t that bad after I got used

to the weather. The music was great, and I mainly went for Florida Georgia Line, but ended up staying for only two songs of theirs. Lee Brice is one of my favorite artists and his song ‘Love Like Crazy.’ This was my first year at Chili because I usually just go to country concerts at Perfect Vodka Amphitheater. I went with Jordan Romi, Nikki Walls and Jennifer Nales.”

With familiar recording artists rockin’ the stage, many people squeezed through the crowd trying to get the closest view.

Food such as burgers, fries, hot dogs and tacos from food trucks and stands filled the hands of people as they walked around between performances. Due to the weather, many piled under tents with heaters and towels waiting for the next artist to come on.

For senior Ryan Pimental, his first Chili Cook-Off was better than expected.

“It was raining but a lot of fun with all the positive energy around. My favorite song was ‘H.O.L.Y’ by Florida Georgia Line,” Pimental said. “I drove my four friends around 3 a.m. and drove back that night at 6 p.m. Tailgating was fun, but it would’ve been better if I had a truck. I look forward to going again next year with my family.”

Many concert goers were impressed during Florida Georgia Line’s performance which used actual fire as a special effect.

As the finale, their performance seemed to captivate the audience. In the middle of the song “Sundaze,” one of the band members from Florida Georgia Line brought their golden retriever on stage and the crowd went wild.

Lee Brice performed a song dedicated

just to his wife. Chris Lane performed throwback songs such as “I Want It That Way” by the Backstreet Boys and “ByeBye,” originally performed by *NSYNC. In addition, Granger Smith shared a story with the fans about how he recently fell off of a stage and broke a rib. Since the stage was wet, he had to perform carefully.

Over-excited fans who desperately wanted a selfie with Smith started throwing their phones at him, hoping he’d catch them and snap a picture with a smile. Joe Nichols inspires visions of white sand and blue waves during his song “Sunny and 75.”

Despite the cold weather, country tunes warmed up the fans, memories were made and the concert being a 76,000-square-foot venue, had an attendance of about 30,000. With the large turn out, Kiss 99.9 will likely continue to host the annual Chili Cook-Off. Story by Amy Scarlata

Chili’s Got Your Fix. Rising artist Chris Lane performs his hit single “Fix.” Photo by Amy Scarlata Standing Room Only. Tents with food and heaters fill up the C.B Smith Park and country music fans pile in to dance and sing to hit songs. Photo by Amy Scarlata Mighty Marines. Junior Rebecca Bogart shows her support U.S. Marines by posing with a recruiter at Chili Cook-Off. Photo courtesy of Hannah Bogart

Entertainment • Concerts 27

Design by Emma Dowd

WINTER WRAP-UP Winter sports seasons come to a close

Reporting by Emma Dowd, Nyan Clarke, Jacob Brown, Isabella Cohen

“

Varsity & JV ice hockey

COMPETITIVE CHEERLEADING

Varsity Regular Season: 8-10-1 District Games: 0-1 JV Regular Season: 3-16 Districts: Did Not Qualify

1st Place: 1 Placement 2nd Place: 3 Placements 3rd Place: 2 Placements

“

We grew as a team together. Each game led us to new opportunities to discuss what works and what doesn’t work, and we got better with each game.

We had a very fun and productive season. I loved my teammates and all the competitions we performed in, and I can’t wait for next year.

Alternate Captain Hunter Luboff (28)

Sophomore Olivia Prochilo

MEN’S VARSITY wRESTLING

Men’s VARSITY BASKETBALL

”

Regular Season: 9-8 Districts: Did Not Qualify

“

Overall, I would say that our season went almost exactly as expected so far, if not better, up to this point, and I hope that we will make it to States.

”

“

The season was a bit rocky and of course we had our ups and downs like every team.

Although it was not the best of our season, I’m overall proud of how we finished.

”

“

Regular Season: 10-10 Districts: Did Not Qualify

Starting Heavyweight Juan Werner

Point Guard Joshua Raphael (3)

Women’s JV BASKETBALL

Men’s JV Basketball

Varsity Regular Season: 8-5

Regular Season: 10-8

We definitely got way better throughout the season and it showed by us coming back and beating teams that beat us by a lot in previous games.

“

The season was overall really good. We all got better as a team and had a lot of fun.

My coaches were really great by helping us improve as a team.

”

”

Co-Captain Victoria Nuñez (4)

Point Guard Nicolas Joseph (1)

Women’s VARSITY SOCCER

Women’s JV Soccer

Regular Season: 13-5-2 District Record: 9-3-1

Regular season: 5-3-1

“

Our goal is always to work hard. We want to be the very best that we can be by constantly teaching and evaluating ourselves. We are preparing for Districts and are excited for them.

Coach Laura Rountree

”

Men’s Varsity Soccer Season results in story on page 32

28 Sports • Winter Sports Wrap-up

”

“

The team worked very hard this season, but it is difficult when the we finish on a loss like we did this season. I love the team they’re a great group to coach. The girls worked hard, trained and focused for the games, but we ended up falling short overall.

Coach Laura Rountree

”

Womens Varsity Basketball Season results in story on page 33

Pass the Puck. At the Panther’s Ice Den on Oct. 31, left wing Matt Horowitz (81) accepts a pass from a fellow teammate. The men’s varsity team tied South Broward High with a final score of 4-4. “I had a blast this season, the team overall did really well. I’m proud of the boys,” Horowitz said. Photo by Emma Dowd

Design by Amit Dadon

Scoring a place in history Men’s soccer makes school history, advances to Regional Finals

C

oming off a Regional Semifinal exit in last season’s playoffs to the eventual state champion, Boca Raton High School, the men’s soccer team was anxiously waiting to push the limits on their success in the following season. Now, having gone farther than ever before in team history, they’ve done just that.

Before h ​ ead coach Phillip Lamarre and his staff signed on to the program four years ago, the men’s soccer team at MSD had not made District Finals in nearly four years–since the mid-2000’s when the staff were players themselves.

Yet Lamarre and his staff, as well as the fresh influx of talented players, have all brought the team into another era of prosperity.

In the last four years, the team has gone to three District Finals, winning two, and advanced to the Regional Semifinals both times. This year, the team made it the farthest they ever had--the Regional Finals, where a quick swing in momentum at the end of the game led to a deflating 2-1 loss to Vero Beach High School–just a few minutes away from States.

“The boys made school history, and even almost made States for the first time ever,” Lamarre said. “Although it hurts to lose like this, it truly shows how far we have come together, and just how much closer we are to where we want to be.”

The team was near an unprecedented second consecutive undefeated season, coming into the season set on blazing through their district, forcefully taking six wins in a row, scoring a 4-0 win over Deerfield Beach High School and a 3-1 win over Atlantic High School.

Yet in the end, fatigued, having lost co-captain Felipe Mendes (10) to a three week suspension and multiple injuries led to a loss of momentum. On Jan. 12, the Eagles suffered their first loss of the year to district opponent Atlantic, 2-1; in these last three games of the season, the team lost twice and tied once.

Overall, they ended the regular season with a overall record of 12-5-2, taking the top rank in the district for the second year in a row with an 8-1-3 record. They also held the best defense in the district and one of the best in the entire state, allowing only an average of .81 goals each game, and also placed third in offense with 2.01 goals scored per game.

Several individual players stood out, including midfielders Mendes and Daniel Medeiros (8) who led the team and the whole district with 10 goals each. On top of that, midfielder Gabriel Carvalho (9) also led the team and district with 11 assists, and defender Casey Conn (12) finished second on the team with 7 assists.

With the regular season behind them, the Eagles now faced a competitive District Tournament without a key player in Mendes. Despite the season’s rough ending, the team bounced back after their bye for the District Quarterfinals and defeated Atlantic 1-0 in the Semifinals and Coral Springs High School 2-1 in the

30 Sports • Men’s Varsity Soccer

Finals, earning them a bid in Regionals, but this time as District champions. “​It’s such a great feeling to win the District,” Carvalho said. “We’ve proved that we’re the best team [in the district], and now we’re looking to do the same in Regionals.”

Playing with the home-field advantage and their fans, friends and family cheering them on with the familiar green turf under their cleats, the Eagles were ready to go against opponent Wellington in the Regional Quarterfinals.

The team’s signature defense came out energetic, constantly stealing passes and tiring out the Wellington offense. Soon after the second half began, Carvalho broke through the opposing defense and scored a goal in the 46th minute.

And just as he did over and over again during the season, goalie Jared John (0) delivered a shutout, saving multiple shots on goal in the second half. With the defense keeping up its intensity, the lead held, and the game ending brought about joyous screams from both Eagles fans and players, who now walked off the field with a solid 1-0 victory. They were back in the Semifinals. ​“I think the team has surprised everyone with how well we played this year,” Mendes said prior to his return on Feb. 4 in the Regional Semifinals.

“Everyone doubted us, saying that we had no chances after losing seniors over the summer. But by now, it’s clear that we’ve proved ourselves.”

With Mendes back on the field, the team came into Cumber Stadium that Saturday night with an energy that Coral Springs simply couldn’t match. In the 17th minute, Conn skied to put in a header off a corner kick, and just like that, the Eagles were up 1-0.

Having worn the defense down early on, the second goal came just seven minutes later from Carvalho–the second game in a row–putting them up 2-0 in just the 24th minute.

Yet again, their defense held strong, confusing the Coral Springs offense throughout. Despite John, the main goalie, being out of the country, backup goalie Ryan Irwin (0) took over for the game, bringing them their second consecutive shutout win. As the match ended, the players piled on top of each other, overjoyed not only at their victory, but about making school history. It was the farthest men’s soccer had ever gone; they were in the Regional Finals. ​”Having made school history together this year is incredibly special to me,” Conn, who is co-captain with Mendes, said. “This season being my last–and my first as a captain–makes this all the more meaningful. It’s just such an amazing thing to be a part of.”

With the state championship series within reach and history made, Vero Beach came to Cumber Stadium for the fateful Regional Final match. Yet,

“

Lock Down. Midfielder Diego Hernandez (11) chases a long pass down the field against the Wellington High School defense in the Class 5A Regional Quarterfinals. The Eagles held on and won the game 1-0. Photo by Liam Hutton

despite the ongoing momentum and hype backing the team, and possession of a 1-0 lead after a goal by midfielder Diego Hernandez (11) sailed past the goalie in the 69th minute, the team was unable to seal the game. A hurried offensive rush by the opposition left the Eagle defense vulnerable, allowing Vero Beach to tie the game at 1-1 in the 75th minute, after the now-returned John failed to stop consecutive shots.

Then, just before the beginning of stoppage time in the 80th minute, a Vero Beach midfielder was awarded a free kick just outside the penalty box on a questionable call–as not only were both sides confused, but it was also unclear why the call was made.

Using the great field position provided, the kicker sent the ball soaring over John’s outstretched hands, and just like that, Vero Beach had swiftly taken the lead.

Urgently trying to send the game to overtime, the Eagles rushed down the field in an attempt to score another goal in the remaining stoppage; they actually managed to get a shot on goal, which ended up going too far left. They were called for a deflating offsides after gaining an open field near the penalty box with a 2-on-1 advantage on the opposing goalie.

But this time, as the whistle sounded to end the game, it wasn’t the Eagles on the field screaming in joy. This time, it wasn’t the MSD students and families in the stands proudly cheering them on. The players collapsed to the grass in sadness and exhaustion as Vero Beach celebrated, and as they left the field, onto the walkway outside, those same MSD students and families gave them a rousing, long round of applause. But this time, it wasn’t because they had won–it was because of all they had accomplished this season.

To end the season, the team attended the Broward County Athletic Association

The team felt and played like a family. It’s so emotional as a senior knowing that we won’t be Eagles anymore.

”

Awards Ceremony on Feb. 22, where Conn was crowned the county’s Most Valuable Player, and both he and John were named First Team All-County for men’s soccer. Both were elated to be able to represent the team. But for Conn, the award meant much more than just that. ”The three years I spent on this team have been incredible; the only thing I wish had gone differently would be us winning a state [championship] title,” Conn added. “It would have meant so much to me, because I had wanted to win one for my late cousin Jordan [he passed away in 2007], who is the reason I started playing soccer, and who made me who I am on and off the field.”

It was an emotional end to the season, and the senior players were hit the hardest–for them it wasn’t just the end of the season, it was the end of their careers. Even though they had made school history in their final year on the team, it was still difficult to comprehend that this would be their very last game as an Eagle. ​”Out of my four years on the team, this one has by far been the greatest to me,” midfielder Felipe Linares (18), who missed much of the of the season due to mono, said. “The team felt and played like a family. It’s so emotional as a senior knowing that we won’t be Eagles anymore. We have definitely changed the culture of Douglas soccer for the better, and I know that this team is set to accomplish big things.”

Lamarre, who will now be returning next year to a noticeably different team, also echoed a similar sentiment.

“The main thing we really want is for these boys to leave the program understanding above all that our team is and always will be a family,” he said.

“They come in as boys, but we do our best to make sure that they leave as men.”

With many experienced players staying on, a returning coaching staff and history made, the MSD men’s varsity soccer team looks to be back next season strong as ever, with their sights once again set on States. Story by Amit Dadon

Design by Amit Dadon

Shooting for the Record Books Women’s basketball team makes history; advances to Regional Finals

O

n Feb. 17, the women’s varsity basketball team cemented themselves in the Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School record books. For the first time ever, the Lady Eagles varsity basketball team had reached the Regional Finals.

The season was not too much of a shock for the team and the coaches. Since their 2014-2015 season, the team has increasingly improved their end-season rankings. Over the course of the last two years, their winning percentage swelled from 43 percent to 93 percent. However, the team solidified their presence in the district and increased the active fan base in a school somewhat unaware of their success.

“What these talented young women have managed to accomplish this season is really something special,” Assistant Coach Veronica Ziccardi said. “Everything about this season was absolutely remarkable.”

The team finished with an impressive overall record of 28-3, and were virtually unbeatable in the district finishing in first with a dominating 9-1 record. Along with a tremendous 15-game win streak to start the season, the team went undefeated at home, handily beating each opponent, and were ranked the 12th best team in the entire state come season’s end.

Their most impressive victory came against Pompano Beach High School on Dec. 12, where the girls triumphed 65-16. This was one of six games where the Lady Eagles held their opponents to less than 20 points in a game, even holding Monarch High School to a poor performance of 12 points in their Dec. 7 matchup.

Through 31 games, the team’s offense averaged a total of 55 points per game, while restricting each unlucky opponentof-the-night to only 35 points per game.

In other words, each opponent was being outscored by an approximately 25 points each night.

The Eagles’ offense and defense respectively dominated the district placing second in district play for both, allowing 317 points on defense–only six points more than rival Deerfield Beach High School. Their total offense, in games both within and outside the district, however, was far and away the best in the district. At just under 1,800 points the team’s offense was the second best in the statewide 9A Division.

Shooting guard Abigail Hsu (35) expressed a happy surprise at the team’s record-setting achievements.

“I honestly wasn’t expecting for us to get as far as we did this season,” Hsu said.

“Considering that we lost a lot of seniors over the summer, there was definitely a question of whether the chemistry would still be there; it’s fair to say that we have answered that question.”

The team breezed through their regular season and most of their playoff competition. Unfortunately, the season ended for the Lady Eagles in the Regional Finals at the hands of Boca Raton High School with a score of 55-70, getting outscored in the final three quarters.

In the game, Hsu racked up 15 points to lead the team, with junior Taylor Thompson close behind, scoring 13. And just like that, their hopes of a state title was deflated. But nonetheless, the Eagles understood just how much they had accomplished.

“Of course we would have loved to be regional champions and advance to States, but for us to be able to make it here,

Lock Down. Point guard Halie Murphy (20) gets into defensive stance as opponent Boca Raton High School brings the ball up the court in the Class 9A Regional Finals. MSD, who had the second best defense in their district, ended up losing the game, 55-70, capping off a historic season. Photo by Makayla Manning

when we didn’t even win Districts last year–that in itself is an accomplishment to be truly proud of,” Ziccardi said. “It’s an experience that not many teams get to have. We strived to go as far as we could together, and I think that it’s clear that we did just that. With how hard these girls always work on their game, I know that we will be back next year.”

Though their record-breaking season was cut short, it was apparent too that the players along with their coaches, fellow students, families and even devoted fan Principal Ty Thompson, were still extremely proud of all that they had done.

“Truthfully I was disappointed with how the season ended [because of missing out on States],” point guard Halie Murphy (20) said. “But considering how this was the best performance for women’s

basketball in school history, I’m quite proud of how we played, and I wouldn’t change any of it. I’m very confident about our chances in 2017.”

The team has already set its sights on states for next season. And with the majority of players from this past historic season remaining on the team, the blow of losing a few of their key seniors will be somewhat lessened. All in all, it’s clear that the Lady Eagles view their season in a remarkably positive light.

They have done what no other women’s basketball team has done in school history. They dominated their district, and made it within arm’s reach of States. But most of all, they made our student body proud to be Eagles. Story by Amit Dadon. Reporting by Jacob Brown and Nyan Clark

HOFFMAN’S HOMECOMING

T

his season, the Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School water polo teams welcomed back former player Andy Hoffman as their new coach. Hoffman graduated in 2014 and worked as the assistant coach during the 2015 and 2016 seasons.

After Lauren Rubenstein, the previous coach, stepped down for the 2017 season, Hoffman took her place in his first year as head coach of both the women’s and men’s teams.

“Almost all of my coaching strategies came from Coach Rubenstein,” Hoffman said. “She was my coach for most of my water polo career.”

Hoffman started out his high school years as a member of the swim team. He became interested in water polo when his upperclassmen friends convinced him to be on the team. Once he joined, he instantly fell in love with the sport.

“The water polo team is unlike any other,” Hoffman said. “All of the teammates get along so well. Even though practices and teamwork can get tough at times, I feel like I’ve made a second family here with these players.”

His most memorable year on the team was during the beginning of his junior year. Hoffman scored the winning goal in double overtime against Coral Springs High School. It was the men’s water polo team’s first win after an all losing season the year before.

“It is a totally different role being a coach rather than a player on the team,” Hoffman said. “The transition is not the easiest, especially being so young, but by giving respect to my players, I get a lot of respect back.”

Since he was also a player on the water polo team, he feels that he receives more trust from his players. There are members that have played on the same team as him and recall his success as a player.

“I’ve known Coach Hoffman since my freshman year when he was captain at the time,” Joey Wong (21), captain of the men’s team, said. “He’s a great player, and has experience coaching. That past experience makes him the perfect successor to Coach Rubenstein.”

Women’s captain Connie Sadar (21) has high hopes for the new coach. She has seen his skills, and knows that he teaches

MSD Alumni returns to coach water polo teams

from experience, not just from what he has seen or heard.

“In my opinion, I think he’s one of the best players Douglas has ever had,” Sadar said. “He was a really fast swimmer and aggressive player. He was also a really strong shooter.”

After seeing the team Diving in. Water polo coach Andy Hoffman reviews plays with for the first time this year, Hoffman had mixed emotions. both the men’s and the women’s team at practice on Tuesday, Feb.16. Photo by Lily Skopp He felt that while the team and that the girls haven’t done in about a has potential, that there is still room for decade,” Hoffman said. improvement. In this regard, Hoffman Both Sadar and Wong have expressed believes that the main problem is their faith in Hoffman to make the communication.

“Although the team looks very strong, necessary improvements to the team. As captains, they have also made their own we need to work on our team chemistry and ‘man-down’ situations,” Hoffman said. goals to help the team for this season.

“I want to have a team that dominates The new season comes with new both this year and beyond,” Sadar said. hopes, with Hoffman setting high goals Hoffman feels he has formed a bond for the teams to strive towards. with the team members as a fellow player.

“My number one goal for this season is to take home the District Championship Coaching gives him the opportunity to strengthen that bond as the new coach, title for both the boys’ and girls’ team.

It’s something the boys have never done, his past experiences as a guide to his methods. Story by Anna Dittman

Sports • Women’s Varsity Basketball/New Water Polo Coach 31

Design by Kaitlyn Falness

Reduce Classroom Germs and Absenteeism with washable keyboards and screen protectors In schools, the most germ-laden places are desktops, • In• schools, the most germ-laden places are desktops, computer computermice keyboards, mice and touch pads keyboards, and touchpads • Proper cleaning techniques can reduce bacteria by up to 99.9% • Proper cleaning techniques and absenteeism in schools by 50%can reduce bacteria by up to

99.9% and absenteeism in schools by 50% www.SealShield.com Seal Shield, LLC, Jacksonville, FL

10% off students and faculty on Mondays and Fridays until April 30th, 2017. Must show student or faculty ID! 6240 CORAL RIDGE DR #110, CORAL SPRINGS, FL 33076

(954) 345-9566

SOFIA@SFLUXURYRE.COM • DIRECT: (561) 706-7330

Virtual Assistants that can increase your productivity and fill your staffing voids in a jam.

4613 N University Dr. #172 Coral Springs, Fl. 33076 Virtual Assistant Barb- (720)-934-8993

1849 University Drive Coral Springs, FL 33071 Century Plaza

32 Advertisements

954.255.2722 www.morlamusic.com