The Stallion Sentinel - Vol IX, Issue I - October 2023

IX Issue I Oct. 2023

omecoming 20 H Highlights

New and Veteran Teachers at AHS 22

American Heritage School, Palm Beach Campus 6200 Linton Blvd. | Delray Beach, FL 33484

STAFF Editor-in-Chief ashley bax

Assistant Editor valentina de carvalho Head Staff Writer dylan gold Social Media Manager amaya smith Staff Writters nikolas antoniadis emma canabal viktoria ekstrand samantha heller derrick madsen lola reardon Guest Writers arvind chintala gianna cosimano oden embler omar fernandez kobey hadar brooke kaplan rithi arun kumar pranya nettem Advisor mrs. williams

IN THIS ISSUE:

OPINION 03|embrace your uniqueness 04|term limits 06|AI in the classroom 08|affirmative action

FEATURE 10|new clubs spotlight 12|AP course censorship 14|climate change in FL 16|cost of living crisis 18|thespian society spotlight 20|homecoming highlights 22|new and returning teachers

ENTERTAINMENT 24|SAG-AFTRA strike and what to watch this fall 26|fall fashion SPORTS 28|brenden gerard athlete spotlight 30|jake weinberg athlete spotlight 31|mikayla rubin athlete spotlight

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EMBRACE WHAT MAKES YOU DIFFERENT

ashley bax | editor-in-chief

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t’s okay to not fit into a box. What I mean is that when we start the college application process, many of us worry about what will look best on our college resume. The application process has become an intense part of a student’s senior year, particularly considering the application system is constantly changing and top-tier universities are decreasing their acceptance rates in the name of maintaining a high reputation. With a growing applicant pool, it can be difficult to stand out with just a transcript,

so it is important to put a unique voice to your grades.

Most students are told, starting in junior high, to streamline their courses and extracurriculars to fit into a predetermined box for what college or major they’ve decided to pursue early on in their academic career. While this advice works for showing one’s intended path on paper, I think it’s essential that students also take the time to participate in activities that interest them, regardless of if it fits into their career track.

Some of the best personal statements I’ve read have honed in on a niche aspect of a student’s life that is not represented in the fullest way on their transcript – whether it be learning how to crochet, performing cultural dances, or volunteering at an animal shelter.

Though exploring random interests may seem like a waste of time in an environment so focused on academics, these fulfilling experiences are exactly what is needed to show your unique identity.

I AM UNIQUE BECAUSE...

Juliana Stenvik Sophomore “I have an extreme love for Disney movies.”

Alicia Bach Senior “ I have a twin.”

Tory Meran Sophomore “I love playing different sports.”

OPINION

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TERM LI MITS FOR

AMERICA

arvind chintala | guest writer

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emocracy is the seem right that elderly foundation of politicians should make America’s politics, decisions for young peobut America’s aging ple and for America. politicians may not be Furthermore, a career representing the counin politics can be very try’s population. The stressful. If the age of answer to this problem politicians doesn’t shift, is creating term limits. many of the candidates The limit for policould get very stressed ticians should be two or suffer from health terms for a maximum related ailments. For of four example, Keeping ailing years. the Minority or elderly This could Leader of politicians in promote the United office, might more States Senhinder Ameridiversity ate, Mitch ca’s progress as in office, McConnell a country. and could froze in front lead to more ideas which of cameras in July and could potentially help August 2023, which was solve domestic or interconcerning to voters. national issues.

Younger candidates The median age of are the best option for a politician is 57 in the America, since they House of Representawill be more in tune to tives, and 64 in the Senwhat voters need. By ate according to The Pew introducing term limits, Research Center, and the there will be diversity age limit for politicians in thought and more to stay or run in office Americans will have should be 64. It doesn’t the opportunity to get

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OPINION

involved in the political process.

Keeping ailing or elderly politicians in office, might hinder America’s progress as a country.

Politicians should be limited to four years in office with two terms to run, and the maximum age of a politician should be 64.

TERM LIMITS: SOLUTION

OR EXACERBATION?

derrick madsen | staff writer

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erm limits might be the solution to the corruptive influences of special interests that have plagued Congress and could stop members from being reelected who are well past their prime.

But what if term limits aren’t the solution and could actually exacerbate the current existent problems? being impacted due to Many have been their advanced ages, pointing to Senate term limits may not be Minority Leader and the straightKentucky Ultimately, forward Senator, implementing solution it Mitch harsh term presents McConlimits is not the itself to be. nell when solution needed Term limdiscussing to problems its can take plaguing term limaway power Congress. its. McCofrom voters nnell is 81 by curtailing the choices and has displayed signs available for voters, seof his advanced age, verely decrease congresfreezing twice at two sional capacity, or limit separate press conferincentives for gaining ences. policy expertise. Another While these two disadvantage could be events do show the need to remove officials automatically kicking out effective lawmakers, and whose performance is

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it would do little to minimize corruptive behavior or slow the revolving door as mandating member exits ensures a high number of former members available to peddle their influence.

Ultimately, implementing harsh term limits is not the solution needed to problems plaguing Congress. How they’d be implemented would need careful consideration. Besides, we have one effective mechanism to remove unresponsive and ineffectual members of Congress: elections.

OPINION

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AI AS AN

EDUCATIONAL TOOL nikolas antoniadis | guest writer

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hould AI be used in ChatGPT from the school school classrooms? WiFi, effectively banning Though some it from classrooms. But schools are shunning AI, I actually disagree with it would actually be bet- the school’s decision to ter to embrace it. AI also curtail students from usknown as Artificial Intel- ing AI because AI could ligence is “a computer actually help students program and teachers But if students that simuduring the and teachers lates and school year. are only using processes AI could it to assist their work, it could human help stube a great conversadents with benefit in the tion (eipersonalized classroom. ther writlearning. All ten or spoken), allowing students learn in difhumans to interact with ferent ways. Some are digital devices as if they auditory learners, some were communicating are visual learners, and with a real person.” some are kinesthetic AI has gained populearners. larity with students who AI could also give have started using sites instant feedback on like ChatGPT, Bing Chat, assignments. Students and Bard to get help or and teachers could put to complete their assign- the assignment into AI ments. An August 2023 with the rubric for the Brookings.edu article, assignment, and it could reported that school give some feedback to districts in New York City help out both students and Los Angeles made and teachers. a controversial move AI could also help and decided to block tutor people on their

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OPINION

assignments if they don’t understand what it is about or what to do. Finally, AI can make courses or outlines for teachers, which can alleviate their workload.

Athough Students should not be able to use AI for 100% of their assignments, if students and teachers are only using it to assist their work, it could be a great benefit in the classroom.

KEEP AI OUT

OF THE CLASSROOM brooke kaplan | guest writer

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hould AI be used social skills. Normally, in schools? The when students need short answer is no. help with a particular Artificial intelligence (AI) topic in school, they is the science of creating raise their hand and programs capable of ask for help. Now, with executing tasks that gen- the new technology, erally need human brain students may turn to power. Although many their device and talk to a people believe that the ChatBot. popularity of AI has benWith access to AI, efited us in our everyday students can easily turn lives, they’ve yet to hear in assignments or homethe damaging effects in work that is not origiour classrooms. nal. When students cut As students, we all corners on homework or know that the use of assignments, they don’t our phones develop With access to have the critical AI, students can answers to thinking easily turn in many of our skills and assignments or questions writing homework that in the click skills that is not original. of a button. are importNow, the easy accessibil- ant to future success. ity to information on AI Another threat of AI could become a crutch that people don’t realize which could hamper is how inaccurate it can learning. be. Although we think AI not only imposes Google is always right, a threat to traditional it’s not. The same goes learning, but to one’s for AI. Although we think

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the information we are given looks useful, sometimes the information provided is incorrect.

Finally, as we depend on machines to help us do our tasks faster and easier everyday, we may become too dependent on it and expose ourselves to technology addiction. Once you obtain technology addiction, it’s hard to get rid of it.

As good as people say AI is, the cons definitely outweigh the pros which makes sense to ban AI in schools.

OPINION

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AFFIRMATIVE ACTION AND ENCOURAGING DIVERSITY kobey hadar | guest writer

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magine a world where more diverse, equitable every student, no mat- environment. ter what their backFirst, affirmative acground is, has an equal tion promotes diversity chance to chase their throughout campuses. dreams By accepting By accepting through students students that higher edthat have have a different ucation. a different race, gender, or This is the race, gender, ethnicity, colaim of afor ethnicileges can create firmative ty, colleges an environment where students action, can create can come which was an environtogether and introment where learn from one duced in students can another.

1961. come togethAffirmative action, er and learn from one also known as posianother. tive action or positive A survey from Bestdiscrimination, involves Colleges confirms that sets of policies and prac- most students believe tices within a governracial and ethnic diversiment or organization to ty improves the learning give traditionally underenvironment (59%) and represented populations social experience (62%) an advantage. for students. Affirmative Though the Supreme action is a way to equalCourt struck down ize access to education affirmative action on and even the playing June 29th, the practice field for students. is important to ensure A diverse student certain populations have body fosters a more equal access to a college inclusive and dynamic education and creates a campus culture. It expos-

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OPINION

es students to a wide range of perspectives, ideas, and experiences, preparing them to thrive in an increasingly diverse and interconnected world.

Affirmative action in college applications is a vital tool in promoting diversity, addressing historical injustices, and ensuring equal access to education. It fosters a more inclusive and equitable society, enriches our educational institutions, and helps create a brighter future for all.

AFFIRMATIVE ACTION GIVES UNFAIR ADVANTAGES

lola reardon | guest writer

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ffirmative action was put into effect in 1965

by President Lyndon Johnson to make college acceptances fair for underrepresented groups, but many argue that it still creates an unfair system, giving a select population an advantage.

Today colleges aspire to expand their diversity on campus and the admissions department does this by taking students’ grades, community service, campus involvement, and background into consideration. Students also have the opportunity to share their life experiences in their college essays, which colleges consider heavily in the application

Furthermore, several process. states have already But critics of affirmagotten rid of affirmative tive action argue that if action over the years. there are two students So far, nine states have with the same GPA and banned the law includextracuring Califorriculars, Striking down nia (1996), a student affirmative acWashington tion means that from an colleges should (1998), underreponly be looking and Florida resented at the students’ (1999). group may extracurricular When be selected, activities, test the Suin hopes to scores, GPA, preme expand the and grades.

Court diversity of struck down affirmative their campus. action overall on June While college accep29, 2023, it now means tances have never been that race, background, fair and were historicaland personal life should ly based on access to not be considered in colresources, today college lege acceptances. Strikadmissions should be ing down affirmative acblind and not take into tion means that colleges account gender, race, should only be looking at or any other personally students’ extracurricular identifying information. activities, test scores, GPA, and grades.

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OPINION

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NEW CLUBS ON CAMPUS

viktoria ekstrand | guest writer

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ne of the benefits of attending American Heritage is the access to all of the clubs on campus. This year there are several new clubs that students can choose from like the Dungeons & Dragons, Love Serving Autism, and SECME (Science, Engineering, Communication, and Math Enrichment) Clubs.

These three new clubs are each unique in their own way and target different interests of students at American Heritage.

Members volunteering at 2023 Autism Speaks Walk.

LOVE SERVING AUTISM Love Serving Autism is a non-profit organization, but it is now also a club at American Heritage that is directed to help the Autistic community.

Sophomores Gia Majano and Max Roddy are co-presidents and founders of Love Serving Autism. Max Roddy

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said, “No other club is engaged with the Autistic community. Not only are we connected to the community, but we also help support people through tennis and many other activities.”

This club has created a great new connection between American Heritage and the Autis-

tic community. If you want to join a club that makes a real impact on others’ lives and is important for people on the spectrum and their families, you should join Love Serving Autism Wednesdays at lunch in Room 31.

DUNGEONS & DRAGONS Do you want a club that helps you forget about what you’ve been stressed about and have some fun?

Then Dungeons & Dragons is perfect for you! During the D&D club time students play D&D which is a video game where groups of people explore fantasy worlds together and go on epic quests and level up in experience.

Sophomore Abigail Reagan, founder and

president of D&D Club, said, “My favorite part of this club is my amazing officers. D&D is a great game, but it’s not as fun if you don’t have good people to play with, and the D&D officers

are some of the best people I’ve ever met.

They really make the club what it is.” The Dungeons and Dragons Club meets on the 2nd and 4th Wednesdays in Room 1209.

D&D members make their characters.

SECME CLUB

If you want a more hands-on and STEM club, SECME is something you should consider joining. In SECME (Science, Engineering, Communication, and Math Enrichment)

Club students compete in science and engineering based competitions.

This club is focused on building critical thinking and problem solving skills all through designing projects. Sophomore First SECME meeting of the school year. Aishwarya Deshpande, founder and president of SECME club said,

“This club is helping American Heritage through bringing people with similar interests together. This club is also good for engineering students because currently there aren’t many engineering clubs at our school.” If you are interested in STEM or engineering, SECME meets every other Monday at lunch in Room 1223.

FEATURE

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Florida’s Censorship of AP Courses pranya nettem | guest writer

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n recent years, Florida the state by instructing has become a battleFlorida superintendents ground for disputes that teaching foundaabout academic freetional content on sexual dom, particularly when it orientation and gender comes to two Advanced identity is illegal under Placement courses: state law.”

Psychology and African The state law is reAmerican History. Those ferring to the “Parental inside and outside of Rights in Education” bill Florida passed by On August 3rd, have Florida’s the College voiced Governor Board put out a concerns Ron DeSanstatement that about the tis, signed the AP psycholstate’s aplast year. ogy course canproach to The law is not be modified curricular commonly to fit Florida guidelines, referred Law. which to as the appears to discourage “Don’t Say Gay” bill and open discourse on cerit bans public school tain themes critical to teachers in Florida understanding behavior from holding classroom and mental health and instruction about sexual African American history. orientation or gender According to the identity. State GovernCollege Board, the ments across the US Florida Department of have created 42 bills in Education “effectively 22 states that restrict banned AP Psychology in topics such as sexual

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orientation and gender orientation according to PEN America, a free speech advocacy organization. Out of the 42 bills introduced, Florida is the only state to have made one of these bills a law.

On August 3rd, the College Board put out a statement that the AP psychology course cannot be modified to fit Florida Law. The statement read, To be clear, any AP Psychology course taught in Florida will violate either Florida law or college requirements. Therefore, we advise Florida districts not to offer AP Psychology until Florida reverses their decision and allows parents and students to choose to take the full course.

Because of Florida’s original stance, several school districts across Florida decided not to offer the AP psychology course in their schools

for the 2023 - 2024 school year. But on August 9th, Education Commissioner Manny Diaz Jr. confirmed that the class can be taught in accordance with state laws. The announcement caused confusion but some districts, like Palm Beach County were able to offer the AP Psychology course to students after initially saying the course would not be offered this year.

Although AP Psychology is not banned in Florida schools, it was removed from the course catalog of some schools across Florida.

Another course under scrutiny is AP African American Studies. This course is new and will be offered the first time for the 2023-2024 school year in schools across the country. The topics covered in this course vary from the rise and fall of ancient African Kingdoms to the effects of the Jim Crow Laws on African Americans post Reconstruction.

On January 12th of this year, Ron DeSantis spoke out that the Advanced Placement course on African-American studies would be blocked due to it vio-

lating state law saying the class indoctrinates students to “a political agenda.” As of now, the new AP African American Studies is not being offered to students in Florida.

While some advocates argue that the

guidelines set by the controversial Florida law are an essential precaution for their children’s education, others argue that Florida’s students are being deprived of a well-rounded education that will prepare them for the real world.

FEATURE

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CLIMATE CHANGE IN FLORIDA

valentina de carvalho | assistant editor

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and weather patterns, unior Karina Sosa said, “climate change and recently Florida is happening because residents have experiof irresponsible human enced severe weather choices that have drasti- conditions like extreme heat and humidity and cally affected our planet and will continue to abnormally high water temperatures. do so if we do not take action. We must take According to WUSF Public action.”

Climate change Media, In the is happening past 18 a Tampa because of based news months, the irresponsible world has publication, human choices in the last experienced that have drasfifty years, extreme tically affected our planet. overheatSouth — Karina Sosa, Florida ing, flash Junior floods, hurhas been experiencricanes, and ing higher temperatures a number of wildfires.

According to The Unitthan usual, and this summer was one of the ed Nations, climate change is the long-term hottest summers Miami has ever experienced. In shifts in temperatures

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Noa Wolfeberg, Junior

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June, 2023, the temperature rose to 115 Fahrenheit degrees in Tampa, Florida.

As a Floridian, we can see the effects of climate change during our hurricane season.

The storms coming in are only increasing in strength and size. “Every year the amount of aid and resources distributed to people both on the West and East coast that have suffered from storm surge becomes more necessary,” said senior Demetria Delp, Green Team Club co -president.

According to NASA, there is unequivocal evidence that Earth is warming at an unprece-

Jesse Colson, Junior

Bertha Swamp Fire in Panama City, Florida on March 12, 2022 (via Florida Forest Service)

dented rate and human activity is the principal cause.

“I don’t think climate change is reversible, because we are at a certain point right now, and to completely turn climate change around would be extremely difficult or impossible,” said Zachary Benkirane, Green Team Club co-president.

Although we cannot reverse climate change, we can certainly slow it down.

According to the United Nations, saving energy is one of the most efficient ways to help slow climate change.

Many energy resources come from oil, coal, or gas, which are considered fossil fuels. As fuel burns, the thermal ener-

gy is used to heat water, producing steam, which drives a turbine, creating electricity. Although many argue that renewable energy sources, such as wind or solar energy, are used to reduce carbon emissions, fossil fuels currently supply about 80% of the earth’s energy.

“Our planet is being greatly affected by climate change. It’s harming animals and destroying their habitats.

Without animals, our health and food would be greatly affected,” said junior Julia Ferraira.

Climate change has reached an unimaginable rate that is affecting us and our ecosystem. The exposure to carbon dioxide and

methane produced by the production of fossil fuels do not only affect our environment by warming up the planet and causing climate change, but the high exposure to carbon dioxide and methane can create variety of health issues such as headaches, dizziness, difficult breathing, asphyxia, and even coma.

If nothing is done today, science predicts climate diseases will become so extreme that people will not be able to adapt. To avoid catastrophic consequences in the near future, we must come together to create modern solutions that will save our future generations and, eventually, our planet.

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THE COST OF LIVING | CRISIS oden embler

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guest writer

cross the country, Americans are struggling with the cost of living.

According to The Labor Bureau of Statistics, consumer prices are up 3% since June of 2022, which doesn’t seem like much, but the rate of inflation affects everything from healthcare to putting food on the table, and it also puts a strain on the financial well being of our stu-

dents and teachers.

“Students and adults are affected by the increasing cost of items,” said Mrs. Kimberly Smith, High School Chemistry teacher. “This makes it difficult to save and prepare for the future if you can’t afford your day-to-day expenses.”

Since the onset of recent inflation, families are struggling to keep up with the increasing

cost of living. And the wages don’t seem to be changing anytime soon, leaving Americans with less purchasing capabilities. Many of our American Heritage students have also expressed their concerns about the affordability, and how their college choices may be limited due to the rising cost of college bundled with the rising costs of other everyday purchases.

— Kimberly Smith, Chemistry Teacher

— Isabella Ickovics, Freshman

— Zackary Kozak, Senior

“The rising cost of living will challenge students with a higher cost of food, school supplies, and general lifestyle.”

“By creating an environment where we make college education nearly impossible financially, we hinder our youth.”

“It’s important to recognize the difference of cost of living because it may affect the future generations.”

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“College is already “I’m not worried expensive and the cost about the future cost of everyday expenses of buying a home,” said are still going up, so it’ll Senior Zachary Kozak. definitely affect what “Prices do seem to be universities I will apply continuing to rise, howto,” said freshman Isaever, I am optimistic that bella Ickovics. whatI’m lucky Housing has ever enough to be also become career able to afford an issue. The I take access to healthrental website on will care, but it’s a sad reality that RentCafe resupport many people ported that the me with can’t and are average apartenough forced to give ment in the income up basic neUnited States to find cessities just to costs $1,702 a home survive. per month on that is — Isabella Ickovics, average, which right for Freshman depends on me.” many factors like locaIn addition to housing tion, size, and quality and rent costs, consumof the apartment. The er inflation is continuing housing crisis may to erode the affordability impact students who of items ranging from need to find housing gasoline to food, and after college, but other inflation continues to students are optimistic make it harder for avabout their options. erage Americans to live

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comfortable lives.

“Recently, it’s been harder to afford everyday expenses, making it difficult for students as teachers alike to afford their needs,” said Mrs. Smith.

The growing issue of mostly stagnant wages and the higher cost of living continues to affect millions of American citizens every year. To address this crisis will require the help of policymakers, businesses, and communities alike advocating for lower healthcare costs, fair wages, and implementing affordable housing.

Ickovics said, “I’m lucky enough to be able to afford access to healthcare, but it’s a sad reality that many people can’t and are forced to give up basic necessities just to survive.”

FEATURE

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“TIME STANDS STILL” rithi arun kumar

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IS A HIT | guest writer

he Thespian Society stole the spotlight with their most recent play, Time Stands Still, that premiered on October 17th.

The performance was a culmination of months of rehearsal and practice and featured seniors Jack Pawlowski and Morgan Small as the lead actors of the show. The play was a tale about a couple trying to find their way after returning from a war and seeking happiness. The lead up to opening night of the show included dozens of hours of rehearsals, and students made sure every element of the cast, set, and props were

perfect.

Small said,“Before the first night of the show, you’re going to have some anxiety, not just about yourself, but about everyone. You just want everything to be perfect, but after the first show, you become more confident, and all your anxiety goes away.

Even with a few mistakes, everything’s okay, because the audience is rooting for you.”

Another important element to a successful show are the student directors who also have to deal with the stress of opening night. Vice president of the Thespian Society, senior Jack

Pawlowski participated in the play as a lead actor, while also performing his staff duties.

“I get to work with a bunch of the members of the Thespian Society and create art with them,” Pawlowski stated regarding his role. “It’s definitely hard work and time-consuming, but fun and very rewarding playing my character.

The greatest challenge was the character work, the research, the background, and the timeline.”

Performing a character doesn’t just mean you act like them, you need to think like them, and become that char-

Seniors Morgan Small, Samuel Artel, Jonathan Jacknow, and Nicole Miller rehearsing a scene in the play.

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The cast of the play, “Time Stands Still.”

acter on stage. It’s a skill not everyone can learn, much less multitask with other responsibilities.

Arguably, the most demanding job goes to the senior student director, Abigail Trachtenberg.

Having to run club meetings, while working with the administration, leading fundraisers, projects, and multiple other initiatives requires both commitment and dedication. What helps Trachtenberg navigate her duties the most is her cast, because both the actors and the administration support her.

However, this doesn’t mean there aren’t struggles on set, the student

director explains. hardest part is learning Trachtenberg said, to think like a director, “The creative process is and being able to give not something that’s lin- your actors inspiration.” ear. Theater is very much A successful perforrooted mance presThe creative in empaents the auprocess is not thy and dience with something emotions, a vision and that’s linear. things spectacle, Theater is very you can’t but most of much rooted always all, it allows in empathy and emotions, control. the audience things you can’t The strugand actors to always control. gle is the enjoy them— Abigail Trachtenberg, selves. process Senior and After all, having Small says, the work ethic. Also, just “Being in the play is very learning about directing fun, because I always is like a teaching art. try something new with You’re working with your every play that I do, and actors to help them disit’s been a great expericover things. I think the ence so far.”

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HOMECOMING ashley bax | editor-in-chief

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s students return from summer and settle back into their routines of lectures, club meetings, and collared shirts, Homecoming marks the first series of events that students look forward to. From dress up days to Powderpuff to class competition, there were many fun-filled festivities leading up to the “Been There, Done That” Homecoming Dance.

As Senior Class President and an involved member of SGA, Sebastian Gomez takes part

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in organizing the various events that occur throughout homecoming week.

He said, “The preparation process is stressful, yet exciting — it’s a lot of work and this year we began preparing in the first week of school.

Working with my friends and my leadership class makes it enjoyable and fun. It is always a good feeling to see all the work and preparation you have done become successful.”

Though the Homecoming dance is a lively and entertaining event every year, Go-

mez declares this year as his favorite.

“I might be biased because it was my last Homecoming in high school, but I honestly enjoyed this one the most. The dance was more fun than the previous years and all my friends and I laughed, danced, and made memories,” he said.

Senior Roger Ramos has become a familiar face around campus as he continues to document various aspects of student life.

Ramos said, “The most

Students showing school spririt on homecoming dress-up days.

HIGHLIGHTS fun Homecoming activity for me was probably recording the Senior Homecoming Class video. I think it’s one of my best pieces I’ve put out yet and the entire process of filming it was just entertaining overall.”

While Ramos expresses enjoyment in his on-campus videographer duties, everyone can appreciate some downtime after a week of hard work.

“I was recording and taking photos all week so I was really excited to have a break and be able

to enjoy myself at the dance. I even ended up going with someone I hadn’t seen since freshman year,” he said.

Not only did Homecoming give seniors an opportunity to reminisce about past dances, but it was also a great way to kickstart the year and the high school experience as a whole for new freshmen.

Freshman Ella Capri Spencer attended many events over the course of the week, but what she was looking forward to

most was getting ready and taking pictures with her friends before the dance.

“I prepared for the dance by getting ready with my friend and shopping for items online throughout the week. My favorite part was going to dinner with my friends before,” she said. “I am really looking forward to hanging out with my friends at next year’s Homecoming!”

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NEW AND RETURNING TEACHERS ON CAMPUS

dylan gold | head staff writer

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his year, as Ameri- would love to add Music can Heritage enters Theory or Music Appreits 30th year, the ciation classes to the school added several curriculum. new staff members Another addition is along with welcoming Mrs. Colleen McNichol, many returning teachers. the new Upper School One of Pre-CalAmong the the new culus and faculty I admire additions EnvironMrs. LeFevre to Heritage mental the most beis Dr. James Science cause her love Reyelt, teachof Literature matched with the Upper er. She my love of HisSchool Guitaught for tory is amazing. tar teacher. six years — Mrs. Walsh, Dr. Reyelt at GrandGeography Teacher taught view Guitar and PreparaGuitar Appreciation tory School and Memfor four years at the phis City Schools before University of Alabama, coming to Amerian HerPearl River Communiitage. If she could add ty College, and at the University of Southern University. “One thing that I was not expecting was the size of the fine arts department and I am excited to watch the size grow over the next couple of years,” he said. He said that he

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Mrs. Dixie Walsh, the beloved Geography teacher.

anything to the curriculum, she says she would be in another branch of math like Arithmetics or Number Theory because she loves math. She said,“One thing that people might not know about me is that I ran the Dopey Challenge at Walt Disney World where I ran a 5K, 10k,

Mrs. Colleen McNichol teaching her class slopes and the formulas that go along with it.

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Dr. James Reyelt teaching his class to learn and read sheet music.

half marathon, and full marathon in one weekend for a total of 48.6 miles.”

One of our teachers on campus is Mrs. Dixie Walsh, is the Upper School Honors Geography AP Human Geography teacher. This is her 23rd year teaching at American Heritage, and before American Heritage, she served as an elementary principal in Singapore and a principal at Boca Prep Elementary School. If she could add any elective class, it would be martial arts because she thinks that people are going to need to know how to defend themselves once they move out and go to college. She said, “I love working with everyone

here, but I especially admire Mrs. LeFevre because her love of Literature matched with my love of History is amazing.”

Another longtime Heritage staff member is Mrs. Sally Schleifer, the summer camp director who has been at American Heritage since graduating from college. This is her 27th year at American Heritage and she says loves how much the sports

department has grown over the years. She said, “If I was not the camp director, then I would love to teach a kindness matters course because it is important to spread kindness and not negativity.” Mrs. Schleifer also says that she admires Headmaster Bob Stone because even though he graduated with a law degree, he followed his heart and dedicated his career to education.

Mrs. Sally Schleifer on the soccer fields rescuing two baby squirrels.

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THE SAG-AFTRA STRIKE AND WHAT TO WATCH THIS FALL gianna cosimano | guest writer

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ou may have BNC/Universal, Paranoticed that some mount, and Amazon. of your favorite The union was shows or movies have fighting for better pay been delayed in recent and job security, as the months. It’s because for rise of Artificial Intellithe first time in over 60 gence poses a risk to the years, the Screen Actor’s careers of writers and Guild and the American actors. So far, SAG-AFFederation TRA has However, most of Televiallowed shows and movsion and 55 films to ies haven’t been America continue able to continue went on filming, as filming, but strike at the it granted many have been same time, these prodelayed. disrupting ductions the producwaivers tion of countless shows to continue production and movies. without violating strike SAG-AFTRA has been terms. on strike since Friday, However, most shows July 14 because of an on- and movies haven’t going labor dispute with been able to continue the Alliance of Motion filming, but many have Picture and Television been delayed. Movies Producers (AMPTP), such as “Deadpool 3”, which includes compa“Dune 2”, and “Gladiator nies such as Netflix, War- 2” have all had to push ner Brothers, Discovery, their release dates back

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to 2024. This strike has came at a cost, however.

Many workers on both sides of the fight voiced their concerns about career prospects and cash savings running out. Large companies were affected too, as Warner Bros. Discovery has stated that they lost $500 million because of the strike.

As of September 26, the Writer’s Guild of America (WGA) ended their strike after 146 days. This has increased the pressure on SAG-AFTRA to reach an agreement as well.

Even though the writer’s strike is officially over, the actors represented by SAG-AFTRA are still on strike, making the production of content impossible for most shows and movies.

Killers of the Flower Moon

Starring Leonardo DiCaprio and directed by Martin Scorsese, “Killers of the Flower Moon” is an adaptation of David Grann’s book “Killers of the Flower Moon: The Osage Murders and The Birth of the FBI’’. It tells the story of at least twenty murdered members of the Osage Tribe in Oklahoma during the 1920s.

Five Nights at Freddy’s

The “Five Nights at Freddy’s” movie will be a horror movie based on the 1st FNAF video game, where the player is a security guard hired to do the night shift in a pizzeria but is hunted by animatronics.

Napoleon

Starring Joaquin Phoenix, the movie “Napoleon” will detail the historic rise and fall of the famous French emperor Napoleon Bonaparte.

Squid Game: The Challenge “Squid Game: The Challenge” is a reality competition show based off of Netflix’s “Squid Game”, where 456 contestants will compete in challenges based off of the original show for a cash prize of $4.56 million.

Lessons In Chemistry

Based on Bonnie Garmus’ book “Lessons In Chemistry”, this show will follow Elizabeth Zott, a brilliant chemist in a man’s world, as her dreams of being a scientist become obstructed by the society she lives in.

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2023 Fall Fashion

samantha heller | guest writer

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t’s the time of year to fall in love with the -ember months: September, October, November, and December. The air is turning crisp and cool as red and orange leaves paint the ground (though maybe not in Florida), the album “Red” by Taylor Swift is on repeat, and pumpkin spice has everyone in a chokehold. As we enter a new school year and reset our countdowns to summer, we also welcome a new frontier of fashion. Or, less dramatically put, it’s time to welcome 2023 fall fashion.

This year, gold jewelry seems to have a leg up in the gold-orsilver jewelry debate.

At least, this is what TikTok users seems to think. One influencer, Alix Earle, is known for her signature chunky gold hoop earrings, which has prompted her followers to buy a similar pair.

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As for the new nail trends, the term new may be somewhat misleading. The wildly popular micro-French nails involve a spin on the classic French manicure; micro-French nails are set apart from the latter by their thin lines. This look aims for elegance and simplicity, like the original French nails.

The fall makeup trends are favoring natural-looking skin with emphasis on the eyes and lips. Ever since the “no-makeup makeup” look (which is exactly what it sounds like) went viral on TikTok, people have been obsessed with achieving the perfect natural look, which may even be paired with fake freckles. The new addition is the combination of this organic look with bold lips and eye makeup, featuring darker hues symbolic of fall.

Fall fashion is also seeming to favor preppy styles this year. Though there are tons of TikTok accounts dedicated to being “preppy,” preppy style actually refers to the types of clothes worn by girls in preparatory schools. This includes collared tops, pleated skirts, and cotton blouses. More teenagers may understand this look as the “Gossip Girl aesthetic”, and the resurgence of this type of fashion may be due to the rise in popularity of the show Gossip Girl - many young girls now aspire to dress like 2000s teenage fashion icons Serena Van Der Woodsen and Blair Waldorf.

Doja Cat isn’t the only one painting the town red this season. Bright red is the color dominating the runways and the streets this season, reflecting energy and intensity. Additionally, it may not be winter yet, but ice blue is on the forecast for this fashion season. The color is apparent on the runways in all types of apparel, from dresses to coats.

Another closet staple for this fall is undoubtedly wide-leg jeans. Baggy jeans and cargo pants from popular stores like Brandy Melville have been flying off the shelves. Millennials and Generation X-ers may be getting déjà vu from this trend, as wideleg jeans are reminiscent of 90s fashion. This time, however, the jeans’ rise in popularity may be symbolic of the current body positivity movement. Wide-leg jeans aren’t the only denim articles making a comeback; in fact, there has been a surge in all types of denim clothing, such as jean skirts and even jean tank tops.

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ATHLETE SPOTLIGHT: BRENDAN GERARD omar fernandez | guest writer

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Brendan Gerard playing offense against Somerset Academy Key.

rendan Gerard is point guard for the Varsity basketball team. He’s been playing basketball since he was five years old and we recently sat down with Gerard to talk about his love for basketball, how he prepares for a game, and what he’s looking forward to this season.

Can you share a memorable game or moment from your high school basketball career?

My most memorable moment was beating

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Saint Andrews. We were supposed to lose by a lot so the win was special.

What do you enjoy most about being part of a team?

I enjoy the bond I have with my teammates during and after the seasons. We build forever friendships through basketball.

Describe your relationship with your coaches and how they’ve influenced your development.

The coaches have helped me progress a lot from my freshman year. Coach Kam has helped me progress throughout the years and has made me a great player and person.

What lessons have you learned from losses or setbacks in your basketball career?

I’ve learned that it is okay to have a bad game every once and a while and to not let one game define you.

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JAKE WEINBERG: FLORIDA’S #1 KICKER amaya smith | social media manger

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ne of the stars of the varsity football team is kicker Jake Weinberg who had a standout season last year.

“My favorite moment last year was when I kicked a 57 yard field goal in a game,” Weinberg said.

Weinberg has been playing football since his sophomore year and is looking forward to his senior year.

“My goal for the season is to hit a far field goal this year,” he said “My greatest strengths are being able to stay accurate and kick the ball far.”

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Weinberg has had an incredible run. He’s considered the #1 prospect in his position for the 2024 recruiting class. As a junior Weinberg was 5 of 8 on field goal attempts and 17 for 17 on PATS (points after touchdown). Next year Weinberg has plans to play at Florida State University, and during his recruiting process he had 25 schools interested in adding him to their team roster.

“The recruiting process was hard trying to decide what school to commit to, but I wanted to go to the school that had the most interest,”

he said. “Next year, I’m looking forward to being able to play in the Florida State atmosphere, and I’m happy that I get to stay in the state of Florida.”

Though Weinberg will be playing on a huge stage in front of thousands next year, this year he has a few more games that he’ll get to play in front of friends and family.

“I love playing football,” he said. “And I love playing on Friday nights and seeing my friends come out and watch me play.”

MIKAYLA RUBIN: A SOCCER SUPERSTAR

emma canabal | staff writer

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omen’s soccer motivate and elevate is one of the your game by cheering most popuyou on, supporting you lar sports being played while you practice and in the U.S. play as Soccer has had thanks in well as a major impact part to the showing on my life and top ranking you some taught me U.S. Wom“love.” In valuable lessons en’s National Rubin’s I won’t ever Team, that case her forget. It taught has given biggest me teamwork, high school fan supperseverance, players like porter and decision Mikayla is not a making.

Rubin somestudent, a — Mikayla Rubin, thing to look friend or Senior up to. Senior a random Mikayla Rubin has been fan but someone closer playing soccer since she to her heart. was three years old and “My motivation she plays for the Varsiis my mom,” ty soccer Team as well Rubin said. as local travel teams “She’s done like Wellington and AC so much for Delray. me and I want “I chose soccer to make her because the first time proud.” Rubin I played it I fell in love recently with it. It helps me forsuffered an get about my problems,” injury last Rubin said. year and One of the most when she was motivating parts of in Raleigh, playing sports is having a North Carolisupportive fan base. It’s na. She was at amazing how fans can a soccer

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showcase and she took a wrong step which made her knee snap inwards and resulted in her tearing her ACL, MCL, and meniscus. One of Rubin’s biggest concerns was if she was going to be able to play soccer again, but she was patient and worked hard to get back playing.

“I live for soccer. I don’t know where or what I would be without it. It’s basically my whole personality,” Rubin said.

Rubin playing on the field.

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