New videogame consoles compete for players’ approval
90s kids revive childhood games, shows, movies
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Junior conquers hypoglycemia on and off the field Page 16
Index
News......................1-5 Feature..................6-9 Entertainment..10-13 Editorial............14-15 Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School• 5901 Pine Island Road Parkland, FL• Volume 26 • No.2• November 2013 Sports................16-19
Supreme Court landmark case visit brings history to life Page 2
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News
November 2013
Tinker Tour teaches students their rights JOANNA ZHUANG Staff Writer Forty-four years after a milestone victory in the Supreme Court case Tinker v. Des Moines, the plaintiff, Mary Beth Tinker is touring the country. The RV tour came to Douglas on November 1 to promote the voices of youth and freedom of speech and press. With the help of Mike Heistand, former staff attorney of the Student Press Law Center, Tinker presented First Amendment related topics. “The Tinker Tour gave [students] an opportunity to meet Mary Beth Tinker,” yearbook adviser Melissa Falkowski, who invited Tinker to the school, said. “It allowed them to get her perspective on how, at the age of 15, she was involved in this case that affects every student in America.” In December 1965,
a school in Des Moines suspended several students, including 13-year-old Tinker, for sporting black armbands to show their support of a truce in the Vietnam War. Through their parents, the students sued the school district but were dismissed by the district court and the U.S. Court of Appeals. The lawsuit was eventually brought before the Supreme Court, where Tinker and the other students won the support of the justices, who declared that neither students nor teachers “shed their constitutional rights to freedom of speech or expression at the schoolhouse gate.” “The Tinker case was a landmark case for students because it established that they have rights at school,” Falkowski said. “When they come to school, they don’t give up those rights.”
Photo by Albert Aronov
Mary Beth Tinker displays one example of the hundreds of pieces of hate mail that she received while the Supreme Court heard her case. Tinker explained that one person even threatened to bomb her family’s house. In 1969, the Supreme Court ruled 7-2 that “students do not shed their constitutional rights at the school house gates.”
The First Amendment - Students’ rights in school Tinker v. Des Moines • •
Neither students now teachers shed their constitutional rights while at school. Students, both in school and out of school, are “persons” under the Constitution.
Bethel School District v. Fraser •
Schools have direction to prohibit not only obscene speech but also that is vulgar, lewd, indecent, or plainly offensive
Hazelwood v. Kuhlmeier •
Schools can censor the style and content of student speech as long as they have a legitimate educational concern.
Morse v. Frederick •
Schools can restrict student speech at school events when that speech is reasonably viewed as promoting illegal drug use.
Band student to play in US Army All-American Marching Band MATTHEW LESLIE Staff Writer Jeremy Guttveg has accomplished something that only 125 out of 1300 high school senior applicants have done. Guttveg has been selected to be in the 2014 U.S. Army All-American Marching Band. He will join an elite group of musicians who will perform during halftime at the U.S. Army
All-American Bowl at the Alamamodome in San Antonio, Texas on January 4, 2014. “It is an honor to be chosen out of the whole US to perform,” Guttveg said. The mayor of Parkland, Michael Udine, and Florida Governor, Rick Scott, attended a ceremony announcing his acceptance on October 24. “The whole US AllAmerican Band gave me
the award, and it was cool that I also got it from the staff sergeants,” Guttveg said. To apply, Guttveg created a video showcasing his talent. “I chose to apply because I knew a lot of people who did it and they had a great time,” Guttveg said. Photo by Albert Aronov Guttveg’s trip will be Two soldiers in the National Guard present Guttveg with an Allpaid for by the National American Band jacket and hat along with the shako that he will wear Association for Music with his uniform during the performance. Education (NafME).
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News
November 2013
Two seniors establish free tutoring program JILLIAN MEDINA Staff Writer Senior Jacob Oster is the captain of crosscountry, in the top five percent of his class and National Honor Society (NHS), and worked this past summer with kids who have special needs. This year, he and senior Jillian Kass have created a free tutoring program called Smart Start Tutoring. Beginning in September, Smart Start Tutoring started helping out kids at the Parkland Library from 12 to 3p.m.
on every other Saturday. “My mom works for one of the city commissioners and said that the city didn’t have a program like this,” Oster said. “I really wanted to help out the kids in the community that couldn’t afford tutors, and I thought that this would be the best way to do it.” According to Oster, the organization tutors in any subject, from reading comprehension to science and math. Oster and Kass select other students to help tutor.
Those tutors need an “A” in the subject they tutor in and a standard of a 3.5 GPA, which they verify from virtual counselor. They find their tutors from people they know and Douglas’s NHS. They now have 11 tutors and offer service hours to them. “We are hoping that it will be continued by my sister, Gabriella Kass, who is a sophomore and will fully take over the program by running the emails and recruiting tutors once I leave for college,” Kass said.
Marching band gives back to community
News Briefs
DECA chapter project raises mental health awareness ALEXANDRA BARRY
GILLIAN MORRISON
redoing the yards and Staff Writer volley ball courts at the The Douglas marching SOS Children’s Village. band “gave back” at Quigley This year, the band decided Park by performing at the to help with the Parkland Football and Cheerleading Buddies sports programs, which gives kids with Buddies opening day on special needs a chance to August 24 and Soccer Buddies on November 19. participate in sports. “We could tell that our “We perform to do our playing affected the football part for the community,” band director John Rusnak players because it made many of them smile and said. dance along with us,” senior The band has participated in give- back Rebecca Tutunic said. days in the past, painting “There is no better reward than that.” and cleaning houses and
Photo by Alanna Koehler
Junior Roei Golan tutors a student at the Parkland Library on November 2. The two worked on math homework, although the tutoring program can also help with other subjects, like reading and science.
Photo by Alanna Koehler
Senior flutist Rebecca Tutunic performs at halftime of the Pig Bowl.
Staff Writer Seniors Stephanie Steinhauser and Emily Crooke, along with a committee of DECA students, arranged a suicide awareness presentation named after Avril Levine’s song “Keep Holding On.” “We want the students to realize they are never alone in their struggles,” Steinhauser said. “There’s always help they can get if they just
reach out.” The presentation promotes resources such as OK2TALK.org and the telephone number 2-1-1. 2-1-1 offers services such as support groups, counseling, drug and alcohol intervention and rehabilitation. OK2TALK is an online resource that allows people of all ages to vent their feelings and get advice from others who may have experienced the same issues.
This presentation will be given to all students in the media center, through their English class, in November. “The recent death by suicide at this school shocked everyone,” Steinhauser said “Students need not only closure but education. We intend to save lives by making others aware of the resources available to them and educating them about mental health.”
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News
Rock Buddies teaches music to children with special needs JACOB FELDMAN News Editor Junior Parker Abt has blended Parkland Buddy Sports and the School of Rock of Coral Springs to create Rock Buddies, a program to teach children with special needs to play music. “It seemed like a natural fit to combine the two programs,” Abt said. “It turned out that [the Buddy Sports coordinator] Jeb Niewood had been looking to start a music program for a couple of years. After a few months and a lot of cooperation from both programs, we were able to come up with Rock Buddies.” Abt has rooted the program in teaching three fundamental areas: rhythm, pitch, and stage presence. “The goal of the program is to give the ‘rockstars’ skills that they can use outside of the class, whether it be a newfound love for music or enhanced social skills that they can use in life,” Abt said. “Where there’s a will, there’s a way. The can-do attitude of the volunteers and everyone else
Photo by Jeb Niewood
Senior Paige Blauschild and “rockstar” Gavin sing a song together on the opening day of Rock Buddies. Paige and Gavin have been paired together in other Buddy Sports programs, too.
involved will help us accomplish these goals.” Abt stresses that Rock Buddies will not only be extremely beneficial for the children with special needs but also for those who volunteer, teaching them humility, patience, and appreciation for life. Financial issues hindered the program in its early stages. At first, the program did not have the appropriate funds to afford to purchase the number of instruments to give one to each “rockstar.” Rock Buddies will run for five weeks, from October 26 to November 23, and meet each Saturday from 8:30 to 10 a.m. at the Parkland YMCA. “The bounds of this program are endless,” Abt said. “Honestly, though, everyone is just worried about getting to the next week, tweaking the curriculum into something that works. We have a revolutionary concept, but we have to get the program out of its infancy before we think about the distant future of the program.”
Budget cuts cause teacher layoffs
Hundreds of students’ schedules changed in effect KAELA BYNOE Staff Writer Due to budget constraints, Douglas had to say goodbye to science teacher Charleen Maldonado and math teacher Denzel Jagal. According to Principal Ty Thompson, the two were let go on October 4 because of issues in student populations. “MSD was under-enrolled by about 50 students,” said Thompson, “leading to a budget deficit worth two teachers’ salaries. Because of the need to keep class sizes balanced, students’ schedules were changed. According to guidance director Lisa Tekula, between 400 and 500 students were dealt new schedules.
“I hate these changes because I feel very lost in switching teachers in the middle of the quarter,” junior Raja Thummala, who was moved from Lisa Hitchcock’s 4th period APUSH class to Sarah Huard’s 2nd period APUSH class, said. “Both are using slightly different methods and covering topics at different paces.” Though her teaching schedule has not been altered, Huard has received extra students in her classes. “Unfortunately, the changes were necessary due to enrollment,” said Huard. “The schedule changes impacted a good portion of our student body and staff, but Stoneman Douglas is fortunate to have talented teachers
and administrators to help make the transition a smooth one.” While some students feel the changes disrupt their learning, others are ambivalent toward the modifications. “I’m okay with the changes because my schedule didn’t change that much,” junior Aaron Vuong, whose 2nd and 3rd periods were swapped, said. “I do miss some of my friends though.” Chemistry teacher Ashley Sampson’s second period class was dissolved in order to create a first period class for her, changing her planning period. “I think the change was unfortunate for myself and the students,” said Sampson. “Sharing a chemistry bond is so important.”
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NHS attempts to preserve Parkland history RACHEL WEINSOFF Staff Writer In hopes of preserving our city’s history and heritage, the National Honor Society community involvement committee has formed the Parkland Junior Historical Society. “The purpose of the society is to give high school students interested in history a chance to do some hands on research and learn more about local history,” NHS advisor Lisa Hitchcock said. The Parkland Historical Society, established in 2000, maintains records and documents historically related to the city of Parkland. They have succeeded in activities including placing historical markers at multiple spots in Parkland such as Quigley Park and The Ranches. The Parkland Junior Historical Society’s goal is to bring these platforms to a high school level and increase student’s involvement in their community. They plan on doing this by following the action of the Parkland Historical Society while also discovering and studying historical aspects regarding Parkland that are more interesting to the high school age group. “I have high hopes that the society will increase student interest in the historical aspects of Parkland by allowing students to dig into the city’s history through activities held in school and in the community,” Parkland Historical Society president Sarah Schultz said. Schultz currently holds the only leadership position. As the society expands its membership, more opportunities for positions will be available. “Any student who is interested in history and being involved, regardless of them being in National Honor Society, should contact me,” Hitchcock said. Dates have not yet been set for meetings, but the planning for this establishment will continue.
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November 2013
Underdog smartphones beat Apple ALYSSA FELLER Staff Writer
iPhone 5s The new iPhone is available in three colors, has a fingerprint security system, and starts at $199
The current battle in the smartphone world commences between the iPhone 5s, iPhone 5c, and the HTC One. On September 20, Apple released the iPhone 5c, which can be ordered in green, blue, yellow, pink, and white for the back and comes in black on the front. The new plastic color backs make the phone less likely to shatter when dropped. Apple also released the iPhone 5s on the same day, which can be ordered in gold, white, or black and has a fingerprint security system feature which is not featured on the 5c. According to Rene Richie from imore. com, a review site of Apple products, the additional styles and features will make the consumer’s decision between the Android and iPhone more difficult. HTC One owner junior Alexandria Ng believes that when the iPhone first came out it was the new big thing
and the media emphasized its user friendliness. As Apple kept releasing new versions of the iPhone, people just followed the trend and continued buying Apple products. “I like my HTC One better than my old HTC evo shift and since it has more special features, including the ability to take slow motion videos, and has more storage space,” Ng said. “The screen is larger and the width of the actual device is not as bulky as the evo shift.” The iPhone 5s and the HTC One major difference is that Apple makes the iPhone and use iOS while the HTC makes the HTC One and uses Android software. The iPhone 5c starting price is $99, the HTC One starting price is $150, and the iPhone 5s starting price is $199. “I honestly like the camera better on Androids, but I love my iPhone 4s because the iOS software is easy to use,” junior Nicole Bonczek said. “I have nothing against Androids but I feel like I wouldn’t know how to work it.”
HTC One The new Android has a large screen, ability to take slow motion video, and starts at $150
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Comforted by
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nostalgia
SABRINA REISS Feature Editor
With the constant pressure of making plans for the future, students sometimes find comfort in looking back at the past. The present teen’s infatuation with nostalgia may be aided by the innovations that have made documenting and discovering memories easier. “The other day I was going through my old posts on Facebook from 2009,” junior Chloe Cabrera said. “It was an awakening experience, seeing all of my silly political opinions. I was entertained for a few minutes.” The Internet provides this generation with the unique ability to watch their favorite childhood cartoons on YouTube or listen to old boy band hits on Spotify. “We’re able to watch the television shows we did as children and bring back those memories,” Junior Brooke Abzug said. “I watch ‘F.R.I.E.N.D.S.’ almost everyday- it’s hilarious and a classic.” TeenNick airs a 2-hour block of 1990’s children show reruns such as Hey Arnold! and Rugrats at midnight, [titled “The ‘90s Are All That,”] which debuted in 2011 due to popular demand by social media users. In addition to retro ‘toons and tunes, 90’s clothing has made a comeback. The constant cycle of fashion trends has resulted in the return of grunge, highwaisted jeans, and crop tops. High school students reflect on years even beyond memories- ones of blankies, bibs, and the life of a 90’s kid. “I was 2 in the 90’s, so I don’t remember much of it, just certain toys, like Power Rangers,” sophomore Harris Kapoor said. “Life was a lot easier [in childhood]; there was less work, so you could just chill out and play a lot more.” Throwback Thursdays, days devoted to posting pictures of the past, capitalize on this need to relive the warm and fuzzy feelings of childhood. “The pictures are from a time when we weren’t compelled to excel in school and we were able to enjoy life,” Abzug said. With photographs ranging from one week to one decade old, participants love to reflect on the simpler times. “Every generation has that new thing where they think what they grew up with is better than what it is today,” Cabrera said. “I feel like the same [obsession] is going to repeat itself in the next decade.” For now we can get a heaping serving of nostalgia through throwbacks to television, toys, and fashion on Instagram, an app that could hold as much sentiment for future generations as a polaroid camera holds for today’s. Illustration by Randy Rioux
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November 2013
My experience with ellen “You might want to sit down... do you want to go to California with me?” When my friend, junior Alison Lee, asked me this, I knew I was not only visiting California but also attending “The Ellen DeGeneres Show” as a VIP on September 23. Through a series of connections with the show’s producer, Alison’s family friend had access to the prestigious tickets and gave them to her for her birthday. “The Ellen Show” taping was an amazing experience. Because we acquired VIP tickets, we strolled in an hour before the show, and the rest of the audience. Between our VIP no-waiting-time experience and our front row center seats, the day could not have been any better. A self designated “hype guy,” employed by “The Ellen Show” ran around the studio encouraging everyone to cheer, clap, and smile throughout the show. He alerted us that Ellen was preparing to come out on stage and that we should jump onto our feet and applaud for her. The audience roared in anticipation as the talk show host herself, Ellen DeGeneres, cheerfully danced into the studio.
I was surprised by how small Ellen appeared in person and how her appearance resembled her true age, rather than airbrushed photos that fans normally see. Much smaller than it appears on TV, the studio had an upbeat, charismatic, and energetic aura. Everyone seemed ecstatic to be there, dancing and cheering throughout the entire taping. On commercial breaks there were dance-offs, in which the “hype guy” chose energetic audience members to compete for prizes, ranging from Target gift cards to TV’s, depending on how crazy and entertaining their dancing was. Carmen Electra guest DJed the episode, and Ellen interviewed Emmy winner and “Breaking Bad” star Anna Gunn, played a dancing-charades game with actor Jason Biggs, and interviewed Elton John, who performed two songs and gave his brutally honest opinion of Miley Cyrus’ scandalous MTV Video Music Awards performance. Besides the celebrity guests, my favorite part of the taping took place when Ellen brought a couple seated across from us to the stage. The man suffered from paralysis due to an injury in the army, and the newly married couple struggled economically due to hospital bills and therapy. Ellen donated $25,000 to him and his wife. Philanthropic segments in the show always warm my heart and witnessing this live brought tears to my eyes. The three- hour taping felt more like thirty minutes, considering all
Juniors Alison Lee (left), and Rachel Weinsoff outside “The Ellen Show” studio.
the celebrities I had seen and exciting moments that took place. Where else would I have the chance to be a part of a private Elton John performance? At the end of the show, Ellen graciously thanked her audience for coming from near and far and explained that without us, she would not be here. Witnessing my best friend’s dream of seeing Ellen come true and having the time of my life, was definitely worth the 2700-mile trip.
-- Rachel Weinsoff, Staff Writer
November 2013
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Not filling the landfill Reusable canteens keep it green
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Coloring outside the lines Junior Olivia Perron draws in her personal sketchbook during lunch in the art courtyard.
Photo by Randy Rioux
JOANNA ZHUANG Staff Writer Photo by Alanna Koehler
Junior Hallie Arnold (left) and senior Brittany O’Bryon-Dewerth work next to their camelbak bottles. JILLIAN MEDINA Staff Writer Water has never been so green. According to The Random Acts of Kindness Foundation, Americans throw away 2.5 million plastic water bottles every hour. Reusable canteens may help to alleviate the 436,686,365 bottles in landfills per year. According to Camelbak,people can save 18 bottles from a landfill, $25 monthly, and $300 annually. “It saves money because you don’t have to buy a water bottle every time you want to drink water,” English teacher Stephanie Henry said. “It’s something that you can just wash
every day.” With many distinctive features, such as insulation, filters, and flavor infusers, innovative reusable bottles can replace the disposable plastic ones. In addition to creating a cleaner environment, new technology in bottles benefits personal health. New Brita and Camelbak bottles are BPA-free. Bisphenol A is a substance that creates health problems in natural hormones by making them hazardous to a human’s body. “I got a Brita bottle with a filter because I liked the design and wanted to assist the environment,” sophomore Jordan Geiringer said. “I use it a lot when I go to the gym.”
Full Circle and Citrus Zingers water bottles, available on Amazon and at Brookstone respectively, infuse flavor from fruit, such as lemon and lime, into water from a small section on the bottom of the bottle. The fruit juices diffuse through the water when the bottle is turned upside down. The infuser bottles provide a natural alternative to artificial flavor mixes, such as Dasani and Crystal Light. “Water usually has no taste, which is why I enjoy drinking water more because it tastes better,” sophomore Angelic Philippe said. Water refreshes both our bodies and now the environment in colorful, inventive, reusable bottles.
In a school where colorful murals decorate the pavement of outdoor walkways and paintings litter the walls of all nine buildings, Douglas students thrive through artistic expression. “I’m busy, so I just fit [art] into any time I can, whether it be a yearbook, SECME, or freshman class mural or at home for fun,” sophomore Chi Leminh said. Within the confines of a seven-hour school day, student hobbies, namely art, inevitably intermingle with education. The paintings and the murals display a variety of Douglas’s honor societies, including Mu Alpha Theta, Art Honor Society, and Science Honor Society, and demonstrate the members’ achievement in both school and art. “I paint both at home and in school [in art class and Art Honor Society], and on nearly everything – even the walls in my room,” junior Olivia Perron said. “I got into the arts as a stress reliever; it is always a place I can go to escape.” The artistic creativity doesn’t halt at the student body. Lauren Rosa, the art department head, brings in different expertise from teaching at Vino Van Gogh in Delray, which allows students to extend their artistic limits. Students can both draw from and spread the artistic superiority that lays the foundation of our school.
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Entertainment
November 2013
Popular applications give users effortless enjoyment Pure Heroine Dots A colorful rendition of Connect the Dots, Dots combines simplicity, strategy, and speed to produce an addictive, enjoyable game. The point is to connect two or more of the same color dots and gain as many points as possible. There is also the option to connect the dots to make a square and clear the board of that color entirely. Users can play the relaxing mode of 30 moves or the faster mode of one minute. These restrictions can be avoided in the unlimited more for $1.99. Young or old, users can quickly find pleasure out of Dots.
Songza An amped up version of the popular Pandora, Songza organizes its vast selection of playlists by mood, activities, and genres. With one swipe, Songza asks “What do you need music for?” Answers can vary from relaxation and homework to working out and driving. The homepage lists the popular playlists according to the time of day, while the sidebar includes favorites, activities, and searches for songs. Songza is a personal touch to a music experience due to its selection of music based on feelings and situations rather than artists. Songza provides users with exactly what they need for any event of time of day.
Ever Note Ever Note provides organization for classes, events, recipes, photos, and more. By snapping photos of notes, users can save them and create separate documents. Ever Note assists in fast organizing and easier researching by using saved images to acquire similar data. In addition to saving notes, Ever Note gives users the opportunity to create and find recipes. This app is wonderful for students for all grades that need an extra hand in organization, reminders, and study tools. Ever Notes provides the comfort of multiple devices at the touch of your finger tips.
reigns at top of music charts
ALEXANDRA BARRY Staff Writer With a voice similar to that of prominent artists such as Lana Del Rey, Robyn, and Adele, Lorde brings a new kind of energy into the music scene using an atypical, antipop tone. Pure Heroine, the debut album released September 7 by Lorde, New Zealand singer-songwriter Ella Maria Lani Yelich-O’Connor, pictured below, has gained popularity throughout the world. Pure Heroine contains songs constructed with repetitive lyrics and attractive melodies to any listener. The album strategically go outside the realm of the common music industry. Lorde’s dark tones and low-beat tempos perfectly balance her youthful lyrics, describing her discontent with becoming an adult such as “Life is great without a care.” Coming in at number 1 in
New Zealand, Canada, and the United States, The Love Club EP’s single “Royals” is currently the second most downloaded song on iTunes. “Royals” topped Katy Perry’s single “Roar” on the Billboard 100. The song describes the unglamorous life of a teenager juxtaposing how the media describes it. Her movement away from mainstream music has increased her popularity among teens. “Tennis Court,” also released as part of this album, includes unique dubstep qualities and a darker backing than the song “Royals.” The song is drearier and the lyrics are more easily misunderstood. This astonishing sixteenyear-old artist has already come so far in her music career. Due to the fact that she has only just begun her career, the world can expect to see a lot more from Lorde.
Evil Apples
Evil Apples, the adult version of the popular game Apples to Apples, allows users to play with three or more friends, whom they invite via text message, or with five randomly selected users. For both types of play, the judge is chosen at random from the group of players. Once the players have chosen their cards,the judge announces their favorite card. Each round ends when a player reaches 7 points, earned by picking the same card as the judge. Evil Apples can easily entertain for hours.
--Heather Michael, Staff Writer
Lorde’s album, Pure Heroine, debuted at number 3 with over 130,000 copies sold. The album was released September 2013 in the U.S.
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Miley Cyrus can’t stop her movement
Cyrus’ pixie haircut began her atypical transformation. In August 2012, she chopped off her trademark long, brown hair and dyed it strikingly blonde.
On June 3, Cyrus released “We Can’t Stop,” the first single of her new album Bangerz, and solidified her authentic and bold style. In addition to its illicit content, including drug use, the song’s music video involves promiscuity that transgresses from social norms.
Cyrus’ path to her recent success No clothes. No confinement. No cares. Miley Cyrus continues to take scandalous steps toward success. Three years after her last album, she has a whole new style in appearance and music that strategically gains media coverage and listener curiosity.
Bangerz reveals truth about Cyrus Miley Cyrus further develops her authentic style in her recent album Bangerz, released on October 4. The album’s mix of pop, rap, and country songs highlights her individualism, relationships, and amazingly powerful vocals. Bangerz, like Cyrus, brings a unique and confident vibe onto the music scene. The album presents a fresh kind of music that doesn’t fit into any margins. It tests the limits of music with a focus on Cyrus’ voice along with raw beat compilation. Its honesty and rebellion doesn’t attempt to fit into any margin. Along with the popular singles “We Can’t Stop” and “Wrecking Ball,” the album contains multiple songs that could also easily race to the top of the music charts. “Do My Thang” and “Someone Else” incorporate the popular and catchy electric dance music beats with strong vocals. “My Darlin’” and “Drive” are passionate pop songs in which Cyrus clearly presents her emotions and musical abilities. Additionally, the album includes collaborations, including Britney
Spears in “SMS” and Ludacris in “Hands in the Air.” From the first song, “Adore You,” to one of the last, “On My Own,” Bangerz represents the recent events that Cyrus experienced and what she calls an “ark of growth.” After breaking off her engagement with actor Liam Hemsworth, she transitioned into a self-focused mindset, continued to create her identity, and infused these actions into her work. There are no boundaries with music. Bangerz reveals Cyrus’ strong musical talent, confidence, and understanding of herself. She owns and works her originality to establish a successful album and a way for the world to make sense of who she is.
Rachel Kahn, Entertainment Editor
Cyrus executed what is now her notorious performance at the MTV Video Music Awards on August 25. Twerking, using a foam finger, and wearing very little, her performance continues to be overcovered in the media.
In the MTV documentary, Miley: The Movement, which premiered October 2, Cyrus calls her “We Can’t Stop” and “Wrecking Ball” music videos and VMAs performance “a strategic hot mess.” The sixty-minute show focuses on the daily challenges she faces as she presents a controversial persona to the public.
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Entertainment
November 2013
Updated consoles compete for complexity New PS4, Xbox One contain improvements that will tempt users COURTNEY CONRAD Staff Writer On November 15 and 22, electronic companies Microsoft and Sony plan to release their most anticipated products yet: the Xbox One and PS4. Both consoles flaunt a variety of new features. The Xbox One’s most notable advancements include a new voiceoperated command system, eight GB of RAM which improves graphic resolution, 500 GB of internal memory, and the ability to watch live television and surf the internet. Other improvements include Bluray film availability, a built in battery, and an integrated Kinect system for every Xbox One. Photo by Alanna Koehler
Freshman Nathan Koehler spends time after school playing Grand Theft Auto V on his Xbox 360. 60 million copies of this exciting console have been sold since June of this year.
Exclusive to these consoles These exciting, popular games have already come out with editions for the Xbox One and PS4. Find them in Walmart and GameStop.
The Xbox One controller will gain over 40 improvements including enhanced vibration mechanisms that correspond with game play, creating a more vivid, intense experience. The PS4’s notable enhancements include the new PlayStation app, which enables PS4 users to play, purchase, and download content directly to consoles from smart phones. It also has a new program, which pre-loads recommended game play to the console through its ability
to observe the user’s preferences through games, TV shows, and movies, and a redesigned controller encompassing a touch pad and share button.
“I prefer the PS4 because [of the] improvements in graphics,” said junior Elizabeth Samaroo. “Xbox One only offers online improvements, and I’m not an online gamer.” Unfortunately, neither game system includes the ability to play past generation games. While most recently released games will also be available in newgeneration compatibility, most games already released won’t play on either the Xbox One or PS4. Each system sets at $100 more than their pervious generation, the Xbox One retailing at $499 while the PS4 costs at $399. This may also affect popularity and prominence in stores. “The PS4 is my preferred choice because it’s overall cheaper,” said senior Maxwell Quintero. Both the Xbox One and PS4 plan their release at the end of this month, almost a decade since their last release.
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Spin-offs take well-known storylines to next level The Originals “The Vampire Diaries,” which premiered in September 2009 and is in its fifth season on The CW, centers around a modern family of vampires living in the fictional town of Mystic Falls, Virginia. The plot follows a Twilight esque storyline with a teenage girl falling in love with a vampire. Its spin-off, “The Originals,” which premiered on October 3, centers around the original vampire clan, the Mikaelson siblings, when New Orleans was first built. The show takes fans back to the beginning of the Mikaelson clan with the siblings created out of an occult blood ritual.
Better Call Saul “Breaking Bad,” which recently finished its five season series, will have a spin-off based on Saul Goodman, Walt’s lawyer, following his life before he met Walter White, the main character in “Breaking Bad.” “Better Call Saul” will be directed and produced by Vince Gilligan, the “Breaking Bad” producer. Speculation suggests a release date in 2014.
J.K. Rowling continues wizarding world magic JULIA CORIN Staff Member The new Harry Potter spin-off movie, Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them, is creating excitement along with controversy for writer J.K. Rowling and Warner Bros. The storyline is based on a book written by the fictional Newt Scamander who was featured in the first installment of Harry Potter. “All I want is the return of Harry Potter,” sophomore Tatiana Shirley said. “I hope it doesn’t ruin my original magical image of J.K Rowling’s masterpiece.” The controversy that surrounds the film is whether or not Rowling is taking advantage of the existing franchise by using the success of her original Harry Potter series. On the other hand, some believe that this will provide Harry Potter fans with a new opportunity to hang on to their beloved wizarding world. Rowling has it taken in upon
herself to write the screenplay, which will unveil her enhanced vision of the wizarding world and extend her successful creativity. The story will take place in New York City as opposed to its anticipated home of London. In the movie, Newt Scamander takes off on an adventure to search for inspiration for his book about hunting beasts. Still unannounced who will play this new character, the original Harry Potter cast announced that they are unaffiliated with the new film. The expected date of release is sometime in 2014. “I’m very excited about the new movie,” sophomore Catherine Stout reports. “I hope it measures up to my expectations of adventure from the original Harry Potter series.” Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them will continue its development and the magic that inspired so many.
WHERE ARE THEY NOW The Harry Potter series may be over, but the careers of the main characters proceed.
Once Upon A Time The revolutionary concept of “Once Upon a Time,” an ABC series initially released in October 2011, twists the children’s fairy tales into mature reality. After four successful seasons, “Once Upon A Time” spun off to “Once Upon A Time in Wonderland,” which follows Alice, living in a mental institution in Victorian England. Other characters, such as the White Rabbit and the Knave of Hearts, are brought into the real world through heart-wrenching back stories, showing Alice’s memories of for the first episode, which premiered Wonderland and why she left. October 10, the series proves to be Attracting over 12 million viewers just as successful as the first.
--Rachel Kravatsky, Staff Writer
Rupert Grint (below) is now 25 years old. He has starred in eight movies since the 2011 release of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows. His upcoming film, Enemy of Man will release in 2014. Emma Watson (above) is currently 23-years-old and studies at Brown University. She has been featured by CoverGirl and has continued her acting career as well.
Daniel Radcliffe (above) is 24 years old and lives in the UK. Along with acting, he starred in the broadway show How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying until 2012.
The Courier
Page 14
Editorial
November 2013
Congress must work together to avoid another government shutdown in January KAELA BYNOE Staff Writer Of the 17 shutdowns that have plagued America since 1977, none of them were as colossally irresponsible as the 16-day one that began on September 30. The conflict began when Congress couldn’t agree on whether to provide funding for the Affordable Health Care Act, or Obamacare. When neither side would compromise, they enacted the shutdown. According to USA Today, closures furloughed between 800,000 and 1,000,000 of 2,100,000 federal employees. However, some with “essential job” had to work for a delayed paycheck. TIME magazine reports the shutdown also caused the economy to lose an estimated $24 billion. It affected high schoolers. Students applying for college loans had to wait, since all federal loans were frozen.
The shutdown rendered something as simple as a school trip to Ellis Island pointless; even the Statue of Liberty had shut down. The decision did not even affect Obamacare; funds did not depend on the congressional budget process. Congress didn’t care; they still received their paychecks. It wasn’t until October 17 that the government ceased the tantrum and reached an agreement to reopen. However, the compromise is temporary. According to CNN, it only funds the government until January 15, 2014. If the government cannot reach a decision by this time, it will shut down and default on its borrowing capacity. Such an event would have catastrophic ramifications. According to TIME, a default, an inability to pay interest to debt holders, would cause a downgrade in the U.S credit rating, which would cause a dip in market profits.
The problem could develop into another financial recession. Again, the instability would affect teens, but even more perniciously so. According to U.S News, it would be extremely difficult to obtain college loans, and, because tuitions prices increase during recession, debts could financially cripple students for years after college. The job market would shrivel away; during the Great Recession of 2008-2009, unemployment rate reached a staggering 10.2 percent. The government would inevitably raise taxes. For teens ready to leave the cocoon of high school, this does not bode well. Therefore, the government cannot mosey as the deadline for our nation’s well-being approaches. No more stalemates or impasses. We need the government to work together. Our fate depends on it.
NO FLY ZONE
Illustrated by Randi Rioux
Vital for all Americans to know that much of the food they eat genetically modified RACHEL KRAVATSKY Staff Writer Genetic engineering techniques alter an organism’s genetic material to create a Genetically Modified Organism (GMO). This means that the organism, such as a plant or animal, has genetic codes from other organisms implanted into its DNA as an embryo and develop with slightly different characteristics than the natural variety. The effect GMOs have on the human body are still being researched, but what is known so far creates huge speculation as to whether they are doing
more bad than good. According to the American Academy of Environmental Medicine (AAEM), potential risks include accelerated aging, infertility, a weakened immune system, and changes in the major organ system. The FDA states that it has no reason to believe that GMOs cause more harm than any natural varieties, but, as seen in the AAEM trial results, a range of issues can occur due to GMO consumption. According to the 2006 Pew Initiative on Food and Biotechnology study, only 58 percent of Americans know what a GMO is, while the Grocery Manufactures
Association reports 80 percent of our processed food contains a GMO. This means that Americans consume GMOs without understanding the consequences involved. The FDA requires most
Eighty percent of our processed food contains a GMO. Grocery Manufactures Association
inorganic substances to be labeled on medicine yet it does not require GMOs be labeled in foods, which could potentially endanger people who have severe allergies. Hypothetically, if an allergen gene transfers from a peanut into a corn variety, people with peanut allergies could not eat corn anymore. Miracle rice, a GMO, grows with less water, produces a higher crop yield with extra vitamins, and helps feed starving children in India. However, this miracle grain is depleting the soil, forcing the people to find new plots of land every growing season. Other countries have taken
huge steps in stopping the GMO epidemic. According to the European Commission, states within the European Union have the ability to block the usage and growth of GMOs within their countries if viable evidence is provided. So far Austria, France, Greece, Hungary, Germany and Luxembourg have taken advantage of this law. This means that those countries have recognized reasons to remove GMOs. Despite the FDA and USDA approval of GMOs, they need to be pulled from shelves until more conclusive research has been done.
The Courier
November 2013
Editorial
Page 15
U.S. teens need to appreciate free education AARON SAGER
involved in our community, it is negligent to pass them up. Editorial Editor Whether it be in Best Buddies as a friend for Malala Yousafzai received a someone, Model UN collecting nomination for the Nobel Peace books to build a library for Prize last month. underprivileged kids in This courageous 16-year-old Micronesia, or tutoring peers in stood up against the Taliban in academic subjects to help them her native country of Pakistan graduate, everything makes an and took an active role in impact. advocating for education and If ambitions are large women rights. enough, one can extend their These noble actions have service beyond the scope of jeopardized her life, resulting their community. in an assassination attempt in One could say that taking which a gunman boarded her action for something is school bus and shot her. too challenging, but if a After her recovery, she discriminated and threatened has continued to spread young woman from a third her message, and students world country can stand up everywhere should take Illustrated by Randi Rioux to the Taliban, certainly those inspiration from this. who have the ambition can take lack the advantages students These adolescents do not Girls constitute three-fifths of who should attend elementary initiative, too. in Broward County have. The the five million children denied schools work full time instead, have opportunities to an We need to be grateful for the and approximately 10 million education like the one offered at opportunities presented to schooling in Pakistan. adolescents in our community are resources offered and use them According to Gordon Brown, girls are forced to leave school Douglas. to make a change. It is vital that vast, and none of them have an They do not have the luxury every year to become child United Nations special envoy we not sit idle, letting the world excuse to not take advantage of brides, with millions more sold to complain about their classes for global education and pass us by and allow issues like these resources. or their homework but instead into human trafficking. former UK Prime Minister, denied education to persist. The Develop a passion that helps UNICEF reports that of the face the bleak situations they the international statistics others and pursue it. With Douglas differences we make can have staggering 101 million children were born into. regarding educational neglect a huge impact, larger than we honor societies and clubs acting Teenagers in other not in school, more than half are grisly. may realize. as portals for students to get communities across the globe are females. Nearly 15 million children
Students should use trash cans, not expect others to clean up after them COURTNEY CONRAD
will cease. All Douglas students need to Staff Writer pick up the trash dominating According to custodian Jerry our school. If all of the students contributed to keeping it Jerivinko, the maintenance administration collects around clean, a notable difference in 50 bags of trash a day. Jerivinko cleanliness would arise. Students who clean up after believes that once students learn to respect the school they themselves often display not attend, the problem of littering only integrity and maturity but
also reverence and respect for themselves and their school. Throw away your trash in designated bins and trash cans to encourage a decrease in the rate of litter and help the Douglas campus transform into a clean and orderly school. A beautiful school portrays a beautiful student community.
the COURIER
Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School 5901 Pine Island Road Parkland, FL 33076
The opinions expressed in this paper are not necessarily those of the advisor, administration, or advertisers. The Courier welcomes letters to the editor which can be turned into Michelle Gideon in room 236 or online at douglascourier.com. These letters can be edited for content but these changes will not affect their meaning. The publication abides by the scholastic press and is a member of the Florida Scholastic Press Association and the Columbia Scholastic Press Association. If you would like to advertise please call (754) 322-2150.
November 16 at 9 a.m. Help clean up our school! Earn service hours!
Michelle Gideon Advisor
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Save What’s Left is sponsoring Pride Saturday at MSD
Victoria Malcolm & Megan Robb Rachel Kahn Editors in chief Entertainment Editor & Copy Editor Brandon Ponczek Online Editor in chief
Aaron Sager Editorial Editor
Jacob Feldman News Editor
Spencer Davis Sports Editor
Sabrina Reiss Feature Editor
Sabrina Eisenberg Ads Manager
Staff
Albert Aronov Alexandra Barry Kaela Bynoe Courtney Conrad Julia Corin Alyssa Feller Zach Kaufman Alanna Koehler Rachel Kravatsky Matthew Leslie Heather Michael Jillian Medina Gillian Morrison Randi Roux Mathew Walzer Zach Weingarten Brian Weissman Joanna Zuang
The Courier
Page 16
Sports
November 2013
Girls’ soccer ready to conquer region ZACH KAUFMAN Staff Writer After winning their 20th straight district title but falling 2-1 in the regional semifinals to team rival Saint Thomas Aquinas for the second year in a row, the girls’ soccer team prepares to make a comeback this season. According to senior defender Serena Delgado, the players were upset how they finished last season. The team’s only loss came from the same team in the same game with the same score as the previous season. “It was especially maddening that we came into the game so determined to win,” Delgado said. “It was devastating considering we were competing head to head the whole time and fell short by only one goal.”
According to head coach Stu Katz, after going 22-1 last season, the team’s goals include winning a district, regional, and finally a state championship. “With the loss of our very good forward and top scorer Bailey Leal, there have been a lot of changes on the team, such as bringing a few players from junior varsity up to varsity and trusting them to work hard and give it their all,” junior forward and midfielder Vanessa Agudelo said. In practice, Katz places an emphasis on the importance of the girls making a higher percentage of their shots. “At the end of every practice, the girls participate in a finishing session, a period where everyone on the team takes an incredible
amount of shots in various situations on our two quality goalies,” Katz said. “This will help us win this season in the final minutes of games because after a physically draining practice, our offensive players are practicing taking shots and our goalies are making many different types of saves.” Off the field, the team works on forming bonds with each other to improve their chemistry on the field. According to Agudelo, the captains established a new rule that at the team dinners, the girls now have to put their phones in the middle of the table so they only talk to each other. This gives them uninterrupted time to learn to connect on and off the field.
Photo by Gillian Morrison
Senior Rebecca Foley plays the ball on October 24 against Boca High School. The Eagles look to defend their twenty year reign over the district and take home even more trophies this year.
Athlete manages hypoglycemia Junior soccer player Alex Kales, who suffers from hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar, practices her ballhandling techniques. Kales is currently injured with a knee injury.
MATTHEW WALZER
Photo by Gillian Morrison
Staff Writer In 5th grade, junior soccer player Alex Kales noticed that if she didn’t eat within the span of a few hours, she would experience dizziness and fall asleep in class. At the time, Kales never took into consideration that something could be wrong, so the problem continued through middle school. When high school started, she decided to share her concern with doctors. Roughly a year ago, Kales was diagnosed with hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar. According to Mayo Clinic, people with hypoglycemia should consume high-protein foods and complex carbohydrates because these foods take longer to be digested, thereby preventing sudden drops and spikes in blood sugar level. “If I don’t have meat around I always have
a protein bar and I split it in thirds and I have one-third before the game, one-third at halftime or when I’m on the bench and the rest [after the game],” Kales said. Kales also needs plenty of electrolytes to stay hydrated. However, instead of the typical Gatorade or Powerade, she prefers packets of flavored electrolytes. Kales has been playing soccer for twelve years. Before her diagnosis, she would experience dizziness and hunger during games, but would play through it. Since her diagnosis, Kales’ hypoglycemia has not affected her during a game because of proper nutrition. “I think I’m a better player with the electrolytes because I constantly have energy,” Kales said.
The Courier
November 2013
Sports
Page 17
NCAA needs to enforce stricter consequences
Players must face heavier penalties for accepting payments ZACH KAUFMAN Staff Writer
Commentary The question of whether college athletes should earn money to play has been a recurring debate. Over the past few years, there have been several controversial incidents of college football teams and players getting into trouble with the NCAA and their Pay to Play. A recent incident resulting in a major penalty involves former University of Georgia Bulldog and current Cincinnati
Bengal wide receiver, A.J Green. Green admitted to selling his 2009 Independence Bowl jersey for $1000. As a consequence, he received a four game suspension during his junior season in 2010. Not even one year after the Green incident, according to Yahoo! Sports, the University of Miami’s head booster, Nevin Shapiro collaborated with coaches in recruiting violations which included providing athletes with cars and cash gifts. After this, Miami’s football program was at risk of being shut down for at least one season; however, that did not happen. In actuality, as a way to save their program, the team voluntarily excluded themselves from bowl games for two seasons. The most recent example of big name players violating the
NCAA Pay to Play regulations occurred over the summer of the 2013. Texas A&M’s sophomore quarterback, Johnny “Johnny Football” Manziel admitted that he agreed to sign memorabilia in exchange for a five-figure flat fee during his trip to Miami for the Discover BCS National Championship. As a result Manziel received a suspension for the first half of the season opener against Rice University, only one half of a single game for a six figure contract. Though all of these players and programs have been reprimanded for their unlawful actions, others break these same rules. Part of the reason for the constant violations is the miniscule punishments. Since 2009, consequences for these violations have become more and more
trivial. For example, in 2009, when A.J Green sold his Independence Bowl jersey, he was suspended for four games. In August of 2013 when Johnny Manziel signed a six figure contract for signed
memorabilia, he received only a one half game suspension. This issue will never improve unless the NCAA holds their ground and makes punishments for these actions more severe.
Photo courtesy of Bleacher Report
Johnny Manziel mocks the NCAA and fans during a game after he was punished for selling autographs, which violates NCAA rules. He was only given a half game suspension.
The Courier
Page 18
Sports
November 2013
Boys’ basketball has newfound work ethic MATTHEW LESLIE
Staff Writer Running on the beach is one of the ways that the boys’ basketball team looks to improve upon their 11-12 record and advance past their district championship appearance from last year. According to second year head coach Orlando McCorvey, the team needs to improve their strength and conditioning to reach their goal. “We have been working hard in the weight room to get stronger and doing plyometrics to help with our speed and agility,” McCorvey said. “New assistant coach James Jeter has workouts that are extremely hard. He’s made these kids stronger and tougher with his workouts.”
The team has implemented new workouts and practices in order to get ready for the season. On Saturdays, the players do a 3-mile run from the pier to the Pompano Beach Lighthouse and back at 6 a.m. and then they do different speed and agility work in the sand. McCorvey feels that the team has the ability to step up to the next level. “This years team has a great group of kids who ‘ride or die’ for their coach and their teammates,” McCorvey said. “Our motto that we live by is ‘hard work pays off’. All summer and all preseason these kids have worked their tails off.” Senior point guard Nick Hernandez hopes to take
the role of some of the lost players, become a leader, and guide the team to a district championship. “Nick has a sweet jump shot and is very quick. He’s a 1 or 2 for us and will get after it on D too,” McCorvey said. “This kid is the epitome of hard work. He’s going to play a lot and do a very good job this season.” According to senior power forward and center Jasson Franco, different team oriented drills and workouts have improved the team’s chemistry and work ethic. “This year we are going to play more as a team with contributions from everyone, and in every practice we have been more focused and Photo by Rachel Kravatsky going harder than last year,” Senior Ryan Allison enters the court between cheerleaders and the Franco said. mascot at the team’s Eagle Madness meet-and-greet and practice.
Boys’, girls’ cross country regionals results GILLIAN MORRISON Staff Writer On November 2, both the boys’ and girls’ cross country teams competed at the FHSAA Regional meet at South County Regional Park. The boys’ top two runners, juniors Alex Margetts (on right in right picture) and Anthony Ramcharran (on left in right picture) placed 5th and 7th overall individually. As a team, the boys placed 3rd of 16 and qualified for states in Tallahassee. The girls did not place anyone individually in the top 15, but advance to states with a fifth place finish overall. Photo by Gillian Morrison
Photos by Gillian Morrison
The Courier
November 2013
Sports
Page 19
Soaring eagles on the rise
Annika Mursten
freshman, cross country What inspired you to start running competitively? My brother Matt was my inspiration because he ran all 4 years when he was at Douglas. What is your motivation for running cross country? I’m motivated to become a better runner, get faster personal records, to help improve our team, and to possibly make states. What is your biggest accomplishment thus far? I was really excited when I got my personal record of 24:02 and got 5th in the JV race at BCAA. In the future I hope that I can go to states and drop a lot more time. What’s your favorite part about running cross country? The meets because they are always so much fun with the whole team together and we cheer each other on. What do you think about while you are running in a race? I think about how hard I’ve worked and how much I’ve practiced. I try to think that there is only a little left and that I can catch the girl ahead of me.
Pig Bowl 2013 Photos by Alanna Koehler
Top: Led by Junior Myles Ramos, wearing a number 12 jersey, the Eagles enter Cumber Stadium on November 1 to take on Coral Springs High in the annual Pig Bowl. Bottom left: The Coral Springs Colts line up to snap the ball against the Douglas defense. Bottom ight: Because the Colts defeated the Eagles, 39-36, Principal Ty Thompson has to kiss a pig, held by social studies teacher Sarah Huard.
Davian Dailey
senior, running back
What was your inspiration to start playing? My family because all of my relatives excelled on the field. What is your ultimate goal for football? To be the top running back in Broward County and to [eventually] play Division 1 college football. Are you being recruited by any colleges for football? University of Central Florida, North Dakota State, Florida Atlantic University, and North Carolina University so far. When did you realize that you had a talent for playing football? Freshman year because I was the starting running back on varsity. What’s your favorite part of playing? Running for a touchdown. What do you think about when you get the ball? Getting into the endzone. How did it feel to tie the school record for touchdowns in a single game? It felt like I was in a video game. What was going through your mind when you crossed the goal line for the 6th time? Did this really happen?
--Spencer Davis Sports Editor
The Courier
Page 20
What I Like Right Now
Special
#2
November 2013
Owel’s 2013 self-titled album compiles soothing lyrics and musical beats that are the perfect relaxation tool on stressful days. The album’s underlying focus on nature and the beauty of life parallels the emotion and thought provoking guitar, piano, and drum instrumentals. This unique, soft alternative group avoids mainstream pop ideas and uses their pure talent to create a great album.
RACHEL KAHN Entertainment Editor
#1 #3 First advertised through Facebook, Spotify is the essential app for all music lovers. Like iTunes, users search and download music. However, Spotify allows for free online streaming through thousands of songs, artists, and albums. With Spotify Premium, costing $10 per month, music is available on phones without advertisements or WiFi.
Located in the east Parkland Town Center, Bluefin has a welcoming atmosphere with delicious, fresh sushi and thai food. The wide variety of meals on the menu are all successfully flavored and provide meals for all. With fair prices and takeout, this restaurant stands out from other local ones.
Red Ribbon Week encourages healthy, drug-free lifestyles MEGAN ROBB Co-Editor-in-Chief
Red Ribbon week encourages students to avoid using drugs and alcohol and to lead a healthy lifestyle. Peer counselors urged the entire student body to get involved and created a spirit week to encourage participation. Through out the week, students wore their favorite team jersey, silly socks and all black to show their support of a drug free life. On “black out drugs” day peer counselors wore pictures around their necks, representing a victim of drunk driving. They shared the victims
stories with classes in order to raise awareness about the detrimental effects drunk driving can have. Students also signed their name onto red strips of paper, which peer counselors strung together to create a chain to hang in the cafeteria. “The Chain of Life was an opportunity to talk to students about getting into cars with drunk drivers or drinking and driving themselves and making a pledge that they would not do that,” Peer Counseling teacher Laura Rountree said. The chain represents each member of the student body that agreed to pledge to not drink and drive and will remain in the cafeteria to remind students of their promise.
Peer Counselors share stories • about drunk driving victims to their classes during Red • Ribbon week.
Students wore red in support of Red Ribbon week and to show their commitment to drug-free lifestyles.
Did you know?
Over 90% of teens have used alcohol 50% or more of all traffic accidents involve the use of drugs or alcohol
• Over 60% of emergency room admissions are the indirect or direct result of alcohol • The average age of beginning drug experimentation is 13 Statistics courtesy of fit.edu
Photos by Alanna Koehler