THIS ISSUE:
STAFF:
Editor-in-Chief
Dylan Gold
Assistant Editor
Samantha Heller
Content Editor
Brooke Kaplan
Layout Editors
Gianna Cosimano
Alessia Rojas
Social Media Staff
Kobey Hadar
Miae Canales
Staff Writers
Nikolas Antoniadis
Fernando Fegali
Moussa Sweid
Editorial Policy: Social Media:
The Stallion Sentinel is a student publication of American Heritage School, Palm Beach Campus. The mission of our quarterly magazine is to bring students up to date stories with thorough, responsible, and accurate reporting. Opinions expressed in the magazine do not reflect the views of the administration, faculty, or student body. Questions or comments can be directed to newspaper@ahschool.com.
Jackson Chopin
Evan Fernandez
Guest Writers
Sebastian Lessau
Olangston St. Julien
Olivia Castellanos
Oliver Pierro
Advisor
Mrs. Williams
WHY EMPATHY MATTERS
Why cultivating empathy is essential in the age of technology
dylan gold | editor-in-chief
One of the worst places online is the comment section of a post. The rise of social media has impacted all of us regarding how we talk with each other, and not for the better. It’s easy to sit behind your phone and share your opinions without thinking about how it will impact others. Cyber bullying, reviews, and comments have all been growing increasingly negative and toxic, which is a symptom of a society that lacks empathy.
Our school’s motto of “knowledge, integrity, compassion,” should serve us as a guide to constantly remind us of the virtues we should lead by.
sion,” should serve us as a guide to constantly remind us of the virtues we should lead by. Right now, it seems like we’re not doing a very good job of caring for each other. According to The New York Times, “In 2019, 40 percent of high school students reported feeling sad or depressed, up from 26 percent in 2009. And in 2021, the number of students reporting being sad or depressed increased to 44 percent.”
“I show empathy by listening to other people’s feelings.”
According to Psychology Today, “Empathy levels of American college students have dropped 40 percent, which the authors primarily attribute to the rise of social media.” Social media should foster a sense of understanding for others, but social media can create more division and hostility, disengaging us from the emotional realities of our peers. When we make or read comments online, we sometimes forget that these are real people that we are talking to, and that lack of compassion can bleed into our daily lives.
Our school’s motto of “knowledge, integrity, compas-
Developing empathy is critical in high school. One way we can promote empathy is to befriend others who may not share the same background as us. We can also join clubs, reading books about experiences outside of our own, and volunteer outside of our communities. We also show empathy by shutting down conversations on and offline that are meant to disparage people. Just imagine it was you on the receiving end of the comments. Building up empathy in our day to day lives is vital for being a good friend or peer. It’s easy to say unkind things behind a screen, and it’s harder to live and show empathy in your day to day. Our advice? Choose the harder, but more rewarding, way.
“I show empathy when someone tells me a sad story, I share a similar one.”
“Empathy matters because it gives individuals power to understand and relate to other individuals. I think this is especially important as an advisor/educator because it helps to create a safe environment for students where they feel supported. It is also important for me in my profession to adapt lessons or presentations to meet all of the different learning styles of students.”
-Ms.
Michelle Schiffman Academic Advisor
-Juliana Couch Senior
-Sadie Suarez Junior
SLEEK, SMART, AND SUSTAINABLE
WHY ELECTRIC CARS ARE THE FUTURE
olivia castellanos | guest writer
Could electric vehicles be a practical solution for achieving a more sustainable future? Possibly. Electric cars offer a more eco-friendly alternative to gas-powered vehicles.
From a consumer’s point of view, electric cars provide a more comfortable driving experience because they lack noise, accelerate smoothly, and have minimal vibration, and a lower center of gravity.
In addition to ease and comfort, many electric cars have proven their reliability and safety. According to a 2024 article titled “Electric Vehicle Benefits and Considerations” from the U.S. Department of Energy, electric vehicles have a lifespan of about 200,000 miles, which is approximately 12 years. This is longer than
the average person keeps a traditional vehicle.
Residents also experience quieter roads, which has additional health benefits. As reported in the April 18, 2023 article titled “Why the Electric Vehicle Revolution
Can Benefit Everyone” by the National Resources Defence Council (NRDC), many scientists have found that the quieter the roads, the larger the decrease in driving stress, hearing damage, sleep disruptions, and heart disease. The environmental benefits that impact human health are drastic.
From a consumer’s point of view, electric cars provide a more comfortable driving experience.
In the same NRDC article, scientists studied electric ve-
hicles’ impact on California. They found that air quality improved drastically, significantly decreasing asthma-related hospital visits.
“Electric cars better for the environment and they’re cheaper. They’re also better for the environment because they don’t use gas.”
Sloane
Goldstein, Freshman
Electric cars have taken a step toward reducing the adverse effects of environmental factors on human health. They can decrease environmental pollution by not using fuel.
While many people discuss cost concerns surrounding electric vehicles, they can be considered cheaper in many ways.
Depending on the model of the electric vehicle chosen, the price can range from $25,000 to $113,000 (or more), while the average cost of a new electric vehicle is
approximately $56,000.
Fuel expenses are also enormously lower, as charging your electric vehicle at home is approximately equivalent to filling up a one-dollar gallon of gas. People can save money by not replenishing their cars with fuel, although their electricity bills will scarcely rise.
The difference in the prices, though, will still benefit the consumer. Studies have shown that the average electric vehicle driver saves $800 to $1,000 per year on fuel costs, and these cars require less maintenance because of the fewer moving parts.
Electric vehicles are not only better for the environment, but they are also gradually making roads an extensively safer place.
Benefits of Electric Vehicle Driving
A TICKING TIME BOMB
THE SHOCKING REASONS WHY ELECTRIC CARS ARE NOT ALL THAT
oliver pierro | guest writer
According to a study from Our World in Data, roughly 40 million electric cars were in use globally as of 2023. But are they really as good as they seem? Let’s take a look at the cons of electric vehicles. Electric cars can negatively affect the environment, and can be dangerous for people on the road.
A New York Post article titled “Electric Vehicles Release More Toxic Emissions; Are Worse for the Environment Than Gas Powered Cars” reported that electric vehicles can negatively affect the environment by releasing toxic emissions into the atmosphere. Toxic emissions are toxic minerals and materials found in batteries and tires, and the process of mining these toxic materials is what releases toxic particles into the atmosphere.
filters bringing gas-powered vehicles’ emissions to new lows.”
Ultimately, electric cars may save money on gas, but they also have some serious disadvantages.
Electric vehicles also need many rare metals in order to make lithium batteries. In the process of getting the rare metals for these electric cars, workers and miners are digging up cobalt, which is harmful for humans.
dering, or sleeping behind the wheel.”
People who use self-driving electric cars may be putting themselves and other people in danger. Ultimately, electric cars may save money on gas, but they also have some serious disadvantages.
Although EVs can deliver around a 50 percent reduction in CO2, which helps climate change, it increases particle pollution. When the air is polluted, it can cause health risks like heart disease, asthma, and very low birth weight. The same New York Post article reported that “brakes and tires on EVs release 1,850 times more particle pollution compared to modern tailpipes, which have ‘efficient’ exhaust
Electric cars can also destroy people’s lives forever. Some electric cars have a self-driving mode, which can make drivers complacent over time. In a 2023 Frontiers of Psychology study, researchers found that “drivers became complacent over time with autopilot engaged, failing to monitor the system, and engaging in safety-critical behaviors, such as hands-free driving, enabled by weights placed on the steering wheel, mind wan-
What’s the downsides of owning an electric car?
“Owning
an electric car can be inconvenient because of having to charge it all the time.”
Carlota Schnapp, Freshman
The Tesla is the best selling electric vehicle brand in the United States.
UNLEASH THE WINGS
Why energy drinks are beneficial
miae canales | social media staff
Feeling tired before a workout? In need of an extra boost? If you’re like a lot of students, you might reach for an energy drink. Some people may say that energy drinks are dangerous, but if you drink them in moderation, they provide many benefits.
Energy drinks have a bad rap, but people wake up and drink several cups of coffee without giving it a second thought.
According to a February 2024 survey on driveresearch.com, 73 percent of Americans drink a cup of coffee each morning, which also contains caffeine. A uhhospitals.com 2023 article titled, “Are Energy Drinks More Harmful Than Coffee?” reported that energy drinks contain anywhere from 100 to 300 milligrams of caffeine in a single can.
focus and have energy for mental and physical tasks.
Some of the more popular energy drinks on the market are Celsius, Bang Energy, and Rockstar. The caffeine in these drinks can be felt for four to six hours, and brands like Celsius and Red Bull have options for carbonated and non-carbonated cans, and come in a variety of different flavors.
Some people may say that energy drinks are dangerous, but if you drink them in moderation, they provide many benefits.
‘‘
Energy drinks are also convenient to carry and buy anywhere if you’re in a rush. Energy drinks are a quicker energy source rather than waiting for a cup of coffee to brew during any time in the day.
Feel the fuel:
The
top 6 most popular energy drinks:
On the other hand, an 8oz cup of coffee has 95 milligrams of caffeine, according to the healthline. com article “How Much Caffeine is in a Cup of Coffee?”
Energy drinks work by giving you a boost of energy from caffeine, which can also boost your metabolism. Boosting your metabolism can help your body burn more calories when doing activities. Even though the effect is temporary, it’s effective to help you
Almost anything can be harmful if it’s not consumed in moderation. If students consume too many energy drinks, it could be detrimental to their health. If they stick to drinks that have 100 milligrams, and don’t consume it every day, an energy drink could give them the extra boost they need.
“Alani
is my favorite drink because it gives me lots of energy before a workout. It also helps maintain my energy balance throughout the day. -
Juliana Silva, Senior
The Dangers of Energy Drinks
Why drinking caffeine is bad for your health
jackson chopin | staff writer
For many, energy drinks seem like the ideal solution to a hectic lifestyle. They promise a quick burst of energy in one convenient tin can. Beneath these flashy labels and claims lies a cocktail of caffeine, sugar, and synthetic ingredients that bring destruction to one’s health. From heart palpitations to sleep deprivation, these seemingly harmless drinks may be doing far more harm than good. Is that extra burst of energy really worth the cost to your body?
While they promise energy and convenience, the hidden costs of these drinks far outweigh their fleeting benefits.
The consumption of energy drinks also raises blood sugar levels (glucose). A 2015 study performed by the International Diabetes Federation found that energy drinks affect blood sugar, and participants showed a 25 percent increase in blood glucose levels over the two-hour measurement period following consumption of the caffeine-containing energy drink compared to the control, decaffeinated version.
Do you think energy drinks are bad for you?
A uhhospitals.com article titled, “How the Drawbacks of Energy Drinks Far Outweigh Potential Benefits” suggests that more than half of individuals that drink energy drinks experience negative effects like rapid speech, sleep disturbance, tremors, anxiety and gastrointestinal issues. The same article reported that various studies done by doctors have shown that serious events such as seizures, strokes, aneurysms and cardiac arrest are strongly related to the consumption of energy drinks. The National Library of Medicine states that “Individuals usually develop symptoms of caffeine intoxication in doses equal to or above 200 mg.” This causes symptoms of anxiety, insomnia, muscle twitching, restlessness, and periods of inexhaustibility.
Energy drinks, marketed as a quick fix for exhaustion, hide a dangerous mix of caffeine, sugar, and artificial additives that can harm your health. The National Library of Medicine warns that caffeine intoxication can occur at doses above 200 mg, leading to symptoms like muscle twitching, restlessness, and heightened anxiety.
Additionally, research shows energy drinks spike blood sugar and insulin levels by 25 percent and 26 percent respectively, putting strain on the body’s metabolism. Children and adolescents, particularly vulnerable due to their smaller size, face even greater risks, with excessive caffeine intake potentially leading to long-term health issues. While they promise energy and convenience, the hidden costs of these drinks far outweigh their fleeting benefits.
“Energy drinks have a bunch of chemicals and they’re harmful for your body.”
- Madison Gross, Senior
AHS POLL: DO YOU THINK ENERGY DRINKS ARE HARMFUL? Yes: 71% No: 29%
Top 5 Fashion Trends
olangston st. julien | guest writer
When was the last time you refreshed your closet? If it’s been a while here are the five ins of fashion trends for spring of 2025 and the five possible falloffs of trends that are out of style.
WHAT’S IN RIGHT NOW FOR 2025
1
Baggy Pants
Loose pants continue to always be a trend. They were never really out of style, but the comfortable style is back in and fits well with today’s fashion trends.
4 Flannels and Button Ups
Flannels and button ups have made a comeback this year. You can layer and them under a jacket or wear them unbuttoned with a shirt underneath.
2
Leather and Bomber Jackets
Bomber jackets and leather jackets are one of the most popular clothing items today. They look even classier paired with a pair of wide legged jeans.
3
Capris
These pants are a longer version of shorts and hit mid-calf. Capris are easy to style and can be worn with a fitted top or a slim fitting sweater.
5
Y2K Suit and Tie
This is a 10/10 aesthetic especially when rocked with vintage clothes. You can wear a suit jacket or tie with street wear clothing, which gives a formal street wear look.
WHAT’S OUT RIGHT NOW
1
Jorts
These types of pants are going out of style as not everyone can style them and only a specific build can rock them. They were the most popular in the 90s and they saw a resurgence recently, but they are beginning to fall off again.
2 Panda Dunks
These are now being replaced with other shoes like New Balances, Puma Speed Cats, Timbs, loafers, and Adidas Sambas. These shoes are just better looking and more diverse than Panda Dunks.
3
Skinny Jeans
Skinny jeans are seen much less today, as more people are transitioning to baggy pants. Most people would agree that baggier pants are more versatile and better looking.
4
Puffer Jackets
Puffer jackets are going of style, as there are much better and more popular options. Some more fashionable alternatives include bomber and leather jackets, as mentioned in the ins section. These jackets are more unique and classy, and they can be styled easier than puffers.
5
Oversized Logos
While clothing with oversized logos used to be popular, people today are wearing clothing that doesn’t have logos. If they do wear clothing with logos, the logos are usually smaller and less noticeable, as a larger logo can throw the entire fit off.
ON SCREEN SUPERSTARS
HOW TODAY’S TOP CONTENT CREATORS INSPIRE AND ENTERTAIN STUDENTS
moussa sweid | staff writer
Online content creators have become the new celebrities of the digital world. Whether it’s funny videos, exciting sports clips, or educational lessons, people feel a strong connection to the creators they watch. We asked a group of seniors about their favorite creators and the type of videos they enjoy, and their answers gave us a better idea of what makes content so popular.
Charles Lalonde has a different taste in videos. His favorite creator is Vexbolts, a gaming content creator who streams videos of him gaming. “I often shares Vexbolt’s videos to share to my family and friends because of his funny and positive content,” Lalonde said. If given a chance, he would collaborate with Vexbolts himself to make funny content.
Layci Hyatt loves watching Alix Earle on TikTok for makeup tutorial videos. “I prefer humorous content because it’s more enjoyable and I like to share my favorite videos with my friends,” Hyatt said. If she could create videos with anyone, she’d choose her friends on TikTok, keeping the experience personal and fun.
Sachin Katragada loves watching Ishowspeed, who makes funny reaction videos. He prefers funny videos because they’re more enjoyable. “I don’t spend much time liking or commenting on posts but I still appreciate the entertainment my favorite creators provide,” he said. His dream collab would also be with Mr. Beast, showing how much of an impact the YouTuber has worldwide.
Vexbolts
Alix Earle
Ishowspeed
Mark Sigalov is a big fan of Mr. Beast, the YouTuber famous for his crazy challenges and generosity. “I usually enjoy watching sports videos, but I prefer funny content because it’s more entertaining,” Sigalov said. He also said that he usually shares the funny videos that he finds with his friends and family. Sigalov said that if he could make a video with anyone, it would be Mr. Beast because of his exciting and creative style.
Taylor Dietrick is a fan of Demetra Dias, a creator who shares videos about makeup and clothing fits. ‘I love funny content because it makes me laugh and feel a sense of joy,” she said. “I don’t comment much on posts, but I enjoy sharing my favorite videos with my friends.” If she could make funny and entertaining content with a creator it would be Ninja because she thinks they’d make an amazing pair with their entertaining styles.
Ryan Fenton’s favorite content creator is Joe Rauth,who posts skits. He also enjoys watching WhistlinDiesel’s videos. Fenton said, “If I had to choose between funny or educational content, I’d choose educational.” While he doesn’t always like or comment on posts, he frequently sends them to his friends. If he could collaborate with anyone on a video, he would choose The Rizzler.
Demetra Dias
Mr. Beast
Joe Rauth
HOW I SPENT A THREE WEEK CRUISE IN HAWAII
sebastien lessau | guest writer
My trip to Hawaii began with a four day stop in Los Angeles to visit my family. We went to watch an NBA game and saw the Lakers play the Clippers. Next we went sightseeing on Rodeo Drive, the famous shopping destination with lots of luxury stores. It was really great seeing everyone before I began my trip. I saw my two cousins and my auntie. The last time I saw them was when I was nine in Botswana, but now they’ve all moved to California.
After that, we went on an amazing three week cruise to Hawaii. It was my first time on a cruise, and I didn’t know it would be so much fun. We sailed on the Celebrity cruise line, which was huge. There were so many things to do, like ride water slides that were 10
stories high, which I rode nearly every single day. The ship had a huge theater that we watched movies in, and there was a sushi bar that I visited everyday.
Before I went to Hawaii I didn’t really know what to expect. I’ve seen photos of Hawaii, and I’ve heard it’s a beautiful place. After seeing it for myself, I would definitely recommend this place to visit.
I also met some awesome friends on the cruise. We hung out all the time and had the best time exploring everything on the cruise. The views from the ship were amazing. Every evening, we’d watch the sunset over the ocean, and the sky would turn all these beautiful colors. At night, the stars were so bright, and the sounds of the waves
made it peaceful. One of the coolest days was when we had a pizza party by the pool. We also went to the theater every night. It had a combination of different kinds of
live events and movies.
When we got to Hawaii we went to different ports like Kailua-Kona, Hilo, Honolulu, Nawiliwili,and Kuai. The beaches in each place were absolutely breathtaking. The sand was soft and a beautiful color, and the water was a clear beautiful light blue. You could see the fish swimming in the water and the colorful reefs. The food in Hawaii was mouthwatering too. I tried a poke bowl for the first time and sipped on some delicious tropical drinks. Some drinks were Tropical Breeze and Lemon Ice. I also went ATV riding with my friends from the ship, which was muddy and fun.
Before I went to Hawaii I didn’t really know what to expect. I’d seen photos of Hawaii, and I’d heard it’s a beautiful place. After seeing it for myself, I would definitely recommend this place to visit. It’s the perfect place to go on vacation with your family.
The beach where I enjoyed an amazing Pina Colada.
All my new friends I met on the cruise.
The view of the ocean from the shore.
5 EPIC SPRING BREAK TRIPS
THE STALLION
SENTINEL EDITORS SHARE THEIR BEST VACAYS
“I went to Costa Rica on a teen tour, where I made lifelong friends and memories. It’s definitely a trip I’d recommend taking if you want to discover a whole new culture.”
“Over Spring Break I spent a weekend in Miami. I loved this mini vacation because it was close to home so no travel was needed, and I ate the best food!”
“Going to Spain was the best trip I’ve ever been on. The country is beautiful, and I met a lot of new people that I’m still friends with today.”
“The best trip I’ve been on was to Paris, France. France’s food, sights, and stores topped America’s in every way.”
“I traveled to Key Largo last year. It was my favorite trip because I got to feed tarpon and eat good seafood.”
DYLAN GOLD, EDITOR IN CHIEF
BROOKE KAPLAN, CONTENT EDITOR
ALESSIA ROJAS, LAYOUT EDITOR
GIANNA COSIMANO, LAYOUT EDITOR
SAMANTHA HELLER, ASSISTANT EDITOR
Junior Prep List
What you need to know to get ready for your junior year
brooke kaplan | content editor
The time has come. Second semester of junior year has arrived. You’re about to start the most important and difficult time in high school to prepare for college. As stressful and overwhelming as it can be, it is vital that you stay organized and proactive throughout your second semester to make sure you make the most out of it.
Research/Organize
You need to learn about colleges and universities by browsing school websites. While you’re researching schools, make a document so you can keep notes and organize information such as admission requirements, location, and size, which can help narrow down your college list.
Record Activities
4
Prepare for the PSAT
You should study for the PSAT because you can earn a full-tuition scholarship at several universities if you’re a National Merit Finalist. In addition, studying for the PSAT is an excellent way to practice for upcoming exams such as the SAT and ACT, and can teach you the most efficient methods of studying.
During the school year, you need to make sure you’re recording activities you have participated in throughout high school, such as athletics, leadership positions, community service, and jobs. When you are applying to college, admission officers want to see a strong activities list to see who you are beyond academics. 1 5 6 2
3 Challenge Yourself
Your junior year is your last full year in high school before you submit your applications, so it’s your last opportunity to show colleges why you’re a worthy applicant. To set yourself apart from other students across the country, challenge yourself by taking on rigorous classes, like AP classes. Even if you decide not to take on such a challenging course load, you can still set yourself apart by trying a new club or sport.
Counselor Meetings
Your guidance counselor might be able to provide opportunities for you to discover your areas of interest and suggest colleges and universities that will fit your interests. Also, your guidance counselor will likely write your letter or recommendation for you. When you establish a special bond with your counselor, they will know you well enough to write a compelling letter of recommendation.
Visit Schools
You should visit colleges and universities to get a true feel for the campus you plan to apply to. When you’re on a college visit, you’re able to explore academic programs, visit the dorms, and sit in on a class.
7 Find Time For Fun
Junior year is notorious for being the most stressful year of high school, so it’s important to make time to enjoy yourself. Spend time with your friends and family and look back on all the memories you made in high school as you prepare to move on to the next chapter of your life.
WHAT
ARE JUNIORS DOING NOW TO PREPARE FOR COLLEGE?
“I’m preparing for college by taking the practice ACT.”
“I’m visiting a bunch of colleges. Visiting colleges has helped me narrow down my college list.”
Brielle Fischbien, junior
The National Merit Scholarship Program
Around 1.5 million students take the PSAT each year, of whom about 16,000 become semifinalists.
Only about half of those semifinalists go on to win a National Merit Scholarship, which means that less than 1% of the original student pool receives an award, according to the National Merit Scholarship Corporation.
This makes the National Merit Scholarship extremely competitive.
“I’m getting involved by joining the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. This society aims to find effective treatments for blood cancer patients.”
Zoe Greenstein, junior
Sadie Suarez, junior
CRITICAL CHANGES?
How ACT changes have impacted students
With the American College Test (ACT) rewriting the rules, most students should prepare to pencil in new strategies. On July 15, 2024, the ACT board announced that there will be a new test starting April of 2025 for those who chose to take the test online. For everyone else, the changes will be made for the upcoming September test.
According to the ACT website, act.org, the new test introduces a number of changes. For example, students will have less time to take the test and there will be fewer questions. In the past, the writing section was optional, and now the science section will be optional. Another major change is the online testing option being made available to more students.
change,” Mr. Muzzarelli said. “A lot of the timing issues that were prevalent on the last test won’t be as problematic as before.”
These changes could propel students in the right direction. Students are already stressed out with school.
The new test focuses on the essentials so students can streamline their studying.
-Isabella Ickovics
Sophomore
Junior Juliana Stenvik likes most of the changes being made to the ACT. “Personally, I like the changes being made to the ACT because it gives students a chance to take a less stressful version of the test with more accessibility,” she said. “My two favorite changes are the reduction of the number of questions per section and the elimination of the science section.”
“[The changes being made] The changes are net negative. Assessing with less content, fewer questions, and fewer answer choices over a shorter period of time equates to weak diagnostic data.”
Mr. Matthew Muzzarelli, ACT Instructor
Teacher and ACT tutor, Mr. Matthew Muzzarelli, said the changes being made to the ACT are not negative. Also, he said that students should prepare differently, and he is going to change his tutoring plan.
“We will use new content to show the new style, but the core objectives and lessons don’t ever
According to the ACT website, eliminating the science section is not going to change a student’s composite score. The test will still be out of 36 possible points and previous scores will not change.
“The science section is just another reading section, so I felt like it was a bit repetitive,” Stenvik added. “This allows students to focus on the core sections of math and English. I also like it because it is more comparable to the Scholastic Amplitude Test (SAT).”
Sophomore Isabella Ickovics
is supportive of the new changes. “I like that the ACT gives students another option for testing,” she said. “ I also think it’s great that the writing and science sections are optional, so students can spend more time studying for the math and reading sections.”
The changes may come at just the right time. According to a December 2024 bestcolleges.com report, in 2024, the average ACT score was 19.4, the lowest it’s been in the past three decades. These changes could help the ACT gain popularity among students.
“These changes could propel students in the right direction,” Ickovics added. “Students are already stressed out with school. The new test focuses on the essentials so students can streamline their studying.”
dylan gold | editor-in-chief
Questions per section
How to take the
Students Against Destructive Decisions
How This Club is Helping Students Make Better Choices
nikolas antoniadis | staff writer
Imagine you are driving your car down the road when BAM, someone swerves into your lane causing you to crash and suffer a serious injury. You later find out that the driver that swerved into your lane and hit you was a young college student who was drunk driving.
This situation can happen to anyone, and it’s the reason why
ers. Today, there are thousands of SADD clubs on high school campuses, including one here at American Heritage.
The goals for SADD this year are to transform our student body into one that is educated about the dangers of making harmful decisions that can truly impact individuals’ lives and futures.
-Oliver Palowski, Senior
Students Against Destructive Decisions (SADD) was created. SADD is a non profit organization which was started in 1981 at Wayland High School in Massachusetts by the school’s hockey coach after a drunk driver took the lives of two of the school’s hockey play-
“Being the club advisor of SADD is great because I like helping students become better people,” said club advisor Ms. Rachel Taylor.
This year,
seniors Oliver Pawlowski and Austin Eitches are the club presidents for Heritage’s SADD club.
“SADD is a student-run club that was founded to educate the students and members of our American Heritage community about the dangers of not only drunk driving but dangerous decisions as a whole,” Eitches said.
“SADD was created to invest in the future of students not only at AHS, but in South Florida.”
The mission of SADD is to help students avoid making dangerous decisions. This not only
helps students but it also increases the safety of people in the community.
“The goals for SADD this year are to transform our student body into one that is educated about the dangers of making harmful decisions that can truly impact individuals lives and futures,” Pawlowski said.
During SADD Club meetings, students learn about the dangers of making harmful decisions, and they also learn ways on how to make better decisions.
“Students should think about joining SADD because it helps students make strategic decisions that have a positive impact on their future and their community,” Eitches said.
If students want to sign up to be a part of SADD, they will be able to join by emailing Mrs. Taylor at rachel.taylor@ahschool.com. Another way students can join SADD is by showing up to the club fair at the beginning of the school year and completing the sign up sheet provided by the SADD club officers.
“We as a club want to make sure that students make the best decisions for themselves and their futures whether in or outside of school everyday,” Pawloski said.
10 THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT SADD
SADD was founded by Robert Anastas. SADD was founded in 1981.
SADD members sign a contract saying they will not drink and drive.
SADD was originally called “Students Against Drunk Driving.”
There are 8,000 SADD clubs around the nation.
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
Pennsylvania has the most SADD clubs.
The organization was founded after drunk driving incidence involving two of Anastas’s students.
It was created to prevent young people from participating in destructive behaviors.
SADD has helped service 32,000,000 students.
It was founded in Wayland, Massachusetts.
Source: https://www.sadd.org/
“Teaching people and educating students around the school on how to make good decisions is the best part about being club president.”
- Oliver Palowski, Senior
“Being able to educate the students of American Heritage so they are safer because of us is the best part of being club president.”
- Austin Eitches, Senior
alessia rojas | layout editor
P RO A CH T H E
C H A L L E NG E
samantha
heller | assistant editor
An overview of every AP class I’ve taken and the highlights of each
AP Classes are often an integral part of your academic performance, but they require an enormous amount of effort. The Advanced Placement classes at American Heritage are college credit classes meant to challenge students (which they certainly do), and the teachers are dedicated, knowledgeable, and beyond helpful. Since my freshman year, I’ve taken 10 AP classes. Below, I’ve provided an overview of each AP class I’ve taken as well my favorite part of each class so you can decide which ones are the right challenges for you.
AP Calculus AB
While it is my most demanding class of the year, it is also my most rewarding because there is no feeling of relief quite like getting an A on a test. AP Calc has taken everything I’ve learned in my math classes thus far and wound it all together: derivatives and integrals, the forefront concepts of the class, connect geometry, algebra, and pre-calc, which is the most satisfying part of the class.
AP Psychology
AP Psych is by far the most interesting AP I’ve taken. It encompasses stigmatized topics that are often shut down in conversation such as mental disorders, emotions, and therapy. Not only is the subject matter captivating, but the projects we do in AP Psych (almost) make you forget you’re doing work. My favorite project was an analysis of a movie or TV character’s personality. As a television fan myself, I couldn’t see some of my favorite characters the same after this project.
AP Chemistry
AP Chem builds on what you’ve learned in Honors Chem and explores each concept in depth. The best part about this class is the lab time, which gives you an opportunity to explore the unit you just learned hands-on. We’ve performed titrations and observed as our solutions turned a brilliant pink, as well as spectrophotometry to discover the colors transmitted through different substances. Although not every lab ends in success, every one offers a unique opportunity to learn something new about chemistry
AP World History
AP World took me out of the Boca Raton bubble and transported me to civilizations all over the world. The sequential flow of the units in this class made it feel like one adventure that told the story of people and events I had known little about before. I found World War II to be the most enlightening event of the curriculum because it gave me a greater sense of the terrors my ancestors had endured in Nazi-occupied Europe.
AP Biology
At the time I took AP Bio, I dreamed of a career in medicine so everything science-related was fascinating to me. However, several lessons from the class stuck with me long after I gave up my desire for a STEM-based career - especially the section on ecology, which delved into the species and the environments that make up our planet.
AP Precalculus
I took AP Precalc in its very first year as a class. This provided me with a unique challenge that I was able to overcome by paying extra attention during lessons and bringing questions to class almost every day. I’m also extremely grateful for how this class gave me the proper foundation I needed to survive in AP Calc.
AP US History
APUSH explores many of the same events as AP World, but the class provides a completely new perspective on the material because it zooms in on how these events impacted America. My favorite lesson of the year so far has been on the Roaring 20s because we did not simply learn about the politics and economics of the era - we learned about the art and popular culture that marked the time period.
AP Human Geography
AP Human was the first AP class I ever took, and consequently it was the most difficult. AP Human, demanded an entire new way of thinking based on application. This style of learning is present in every single AP, so I’m eternally grateful for how AP Human prepared me for every other AP class I’ve taken.
AP Computer Science Principles
Before taking this class, I expected to be spending a large portion of my time studying code. However, I soon found out that coding skills only made up a portion of what would be taught in AP Comp Sci. In addition to coding, I’ve also learned how computers function. This class is unlike any other AP I’ve taken because its tests are mostly logic-based and thus don’t require hours of studying and memorization.
AP English Language
Like AP Comp Sci, AP Lang doesn’t require immense amounts of study time because the activities we do in class are more hands-on and writing-based. Due to this, AP Lang is one of my favorite AP classes because it breaks the pattern of note taking and information-cramming and allows me to explore a more creative side of myself through writing.
evan fernandez | staff writer
Supporting Home Teams From Abroad
We all know someone who is considered a “super fan”. This is a person who roots for their team no matter what, attends road games, and has all of the team merch. There are also students at American Heritage who are fans of other teams in other countries. We talked to Omar Fernandez, Niko Bellantoni, and Carlos Jiminez- three seniors who are rooting for their favorite teams from afar.
Niko Bellantoni Team Italy
What motivated your passion for supporting your home country’s team while living abroad?
I was motivated to support Team Italy because of my heritage. I also love following the World Baseball Classic.
Are there specific traditions you practice while supporting your team?
I watch Team Italy on any sports network that broadcasts the game. Usually the World Baseball Classic is only played every four years, so every time the tournament is played, I make sure to tune in.
Carlos Jimenez Team Venezuela
Are there specific traditions you practice while supporting your team?
I always wear my Venezuela jersey during games, and I like to have a Venezuelan flag nearby. My family and I also make traditional food, like arepas or tequeños, which makes it feel even more special.
What challenges do you face as a fan of a foreign team in the U.S.?
Games aren’t always on TV here, so I have to search for streams or updates. It’s also tough because not everyone around me gets why it’s so important.
Omar Fernandez Team Cuba
What motivated your passion for supporting your home country’s team while living abroad?
My passion comes from pride in where I’m from and wanting to see Cuba succeed on a global stage. Sports, especially baseball, are a big part of our culture, and cheering for the team feels like cheering for the heart of my country.
How do you watch or follow your team’s games from a different country?
I follow games online through live streams, social media updates, and apps that provide real-time scores.
What challenges do you face as a fan of a foreign team in the U.S.?
I’m only able to watch the games on TV if they come to the US to play. There are some semi- professional leagues in Italy, but baseball in Italy isn’t as popular as other sports.
What challenges do you face as a fan of a foreign team in the U.S.?
The biggest challenge is finding places to watch games since they’re not always televised here. There’s also a sense of isolation because not everyone around me shares the same enthusiasm or understands why it matters so much.
What motivated your passion for supporting your home country’s team while living abroad?
Honestly, it’s all about pride. Venezuela means so much to me, and seeing our baseball team compete feels like a win for everyone back home. Baseball is such a huge part of our culture, so cheering for them makes me feel like I’m representing where I’m from.
TOP BASEBALL COUNTRES IN THE WORLD
Horsing
Around
A 1 on 1 with Maria Pantaliao, Equestrian Superstar
When you think about sports, equestrian probably isn’t the first one that comes to mind. However, competitive horseback riding is a very difficult sport with an extremely competitive atmosphere. One student who competes in this arena is junior Maria Pantaliao. Here’s what her years of experience have been like for her.
“Equestrian is an extremely time-consuming sport,” Pantaliao said, “Not just because of the actual riding but because there’s a whole lifestyle that comes with the sport.” Pantaliao trains five to six days a week, usually for one to two hours
‘‘
“Despite it being a mentally and physically taxing sport it’s very rewarding and has taught me a lot of valuable skills.”
-Maria Pantaliao,
like any other sport, equestrian requires the riders to be in great physical condition.
Along with her extensive training, Pantaliao goes to the gym every other day in order to compete successfully. She also has to go to horse shows on weekends, work on things for her sponsors, and more.
riding her horse.
“It takes up a big part of my week both in and out of the saddle,” she said. “I’ve been riding horses since I was about 10 years old, so it’s been nearly seven years now.” When she was young, she was actually afraid of horses, but she started becoming accustomed to them after one of her best friends started taking lessons. Pantaliao started to tag along with her friend, and the rest was history. For many high school athletes, the natural next step is to go into college sports; for Pantaliao, it’s not much different.
“I don’t plan on riding for any university teams, but I do plan on riding competitively throughout my college years and after I graduate. It’s also been my dream to go pro.”
In terms of competitions, Pantaliao’s schedule is very rigorous during the winter season. Her competition schedule typically depends on what shows are going
gianna cosimano | layout editor
Pantaliao
on near her, but during January to April, she participates in the annual Winter Equestrian Festival (WEF) in Wellington. WEF is the longest
for its extremely stiff competition, the festival runs for 13 weeks from January to April, and Pantaliao competes every other weekend in it.
“I love to compete,” Pantaliao said. “I’ve won classes in all the divisions I’ve previously and currently compete in. The main prize at my level is a cash award that I usually reinvest money into paying for that week’s show fees.”
Although it may not be as popular as other sports on campus, equestrian has a very prestigious culture surrounding it. It takes a high level of skill to compete, and Pantaliao’s experience with equestrianism has been difficult but fulfilling.
She said, “Despite it being a mentally and physically taxing sport it’s very rewarding and has taught me a lot of valuable skills.”
Pantaliao with her horse.
Pantaliao and Ernie in action.
Pantailiao’s horse, Ernie.
SPORTS VIDEO GAMES
fernando fegali | staff writer
THE YEAR
Rating - 10/10
EA Sports brings the thrill of football with College Football 25. The game was released on July 19, 2024. College Football 25 showcases genuine game play, real team rosters, and stadium designs. The game features better and improved Dynasty and Road to Glory modes unlike its previous install ment NCAA 14. This allows players to lead a program or athlete to success and fame. College Football 25 also features brand new visuals and the addition of the 12 team playoff structure. What fans were looking forward to the most were the college football rivalries. Overall, this game is perfect for college football enthusiasts.
Rating - 9/10
EA Sports FC 25, previously known as FIFA, offers a new experience for football fans. In this brand new game, game play is enhanced, bringing brand new animations and styles. Players can enjoy a larger variety of customization options and brand new casual modes like Rush and the most prized of all Ultimate Team. Ultimate Team gives players the ability to assemble teams with players from all time eras while Career Mode now includes player-agent interactions and features authentic stadiums and leagues from around the globe. EA sports FC 25 is arguably the best football installment.
Rating - 9/10
Madden NFL 25 was released on August 16, 2024 and it marks a huge milestone with the game’s 25th anniversary. It introduces brand new game play mechanics and also features improved animations that include realistic game play and AI that improves the overall user experience. The game’s most popular mode is Franchise Mode. It lets the user manage the team, while Superstar Mode takes players on a personal jour ney within the NFL. This newer version of Madden gives the player a wide variety of schemes and customization options.
Rating - 8/10
NBA 2K25 was released on September 3, 2024. It elevates the basketball experience with its ProPlay motion system which wasn’t in its previous installment. The system gives the game an unmatched level of realism with overall smoother game play and great graphics. The revamped MyCareer mode introduces excit ing new story lines, and MyTeam now has improved customiza tion features. My GM has also been upgraded with an approach that highlights a player’s legacy like Steph Curry or LeBron James. The game has improved crowd reactions, realistic player anima tions, and updated defensive mechanics.
Rating - 8/10
MLB The Show 24 which released March 19, 2024 remains one of the best baseball simulations. It showcases improved game modes like Road to the Show, where players can craft and slowly progress their own athlete and control the ups and downs of their rise to fame. Franchise Mode provides extensive control over a team while March to October presents exciting seasonal challenges. This installment also features lifelike stadiums, realistic weather conditions, and upgraded batting mechanics, each match delivers a brand new experience for the player.
Rating - 7/10
NHL 25 which was released on October 4, 2024 offers an exciting ice hockey experience. It features new skating mechanics and unique player interactions. The Franchise Mode allows for an extremely in-depth management of a team while the World of Chel presents a range of online multiplayer options. Also, the game upgraded the graphics and added lifelike arenas which makes NHL 25 a solid experience.
flipping for track Julia AERE’S transition to track
media manager
In May 2022, Julia Aere, a gymnast for 13 years, made a big decision to leave the sport she had known since she was a child. Her height and a fading love for gymnastics pushed her to try new sports. She didn’t expect to find her true passion on the track.
shot put) Aere has found new strength and mental toughness that helped her succeed.
Her journey hasn’t been easy. One of her toughest moments came at the U18 South American Championship, where she represented Brazil on an international stage.
When I started track and field, my coach saw something in me, and I fell in love with it.
-Julia De Gruttola Aere, Senior ‘‘
“I tried different sports to see if I was good at anything else,” she said. “When I started track and field, my coach saw something in me, and I fell in love with it.”
Since then, track and field has become a major part of her life. Competing in events like the heptathlon (seven track and field events like hurdles, high jump, and
“It was the most pressure I’ve ever felt,” she shared. “I wasn’t just competing for myself or my family—I was competing for my entire country.”
The championship, held in Argentina, brought many challenges. She had to compete in a foreign country, adapt to new rules, and perform without her coach there. Despite these hurdles, Aere earned a silver medal and set a personal best in the heptathlon.
“That moment was unforgettable,” she said. “It showed me what I can achieve when I step outside my comfort zone.”
Now, as she prepares to compete at Wake Forest University, Aere reflects on how track has shaped her life. “It’s given me great memories, challenges, and friends,” she said. Signing with a Division I program is a dream
come true and a new start for her.
Balancing school and sports hasn’t been easy, but she’s found ways to stay on track. “Being organized is key,” she explained. “I focus on one thing at a time so I don’t let stress from school affect my performance on the track.”
Aere has simple but strong advice for young athletes: “Love what you do. There will be hard days, but keep showing up and stay consistent. That’s how you’ll see results. And don’t forget to have fun.”
As Aere begins her college career, her story is a reminder that it’s never too late to try something new. From her start as a gymnast to becoming a track star, she has shown that hard work and passion can lead to incredible opportunities.
kobey hadar | social
Julia Aere with her Brazilian teammates.
JULIA AERE AHS School recordS
1. 200m: 25.16
2. 100m hurdles: 14.54
3. Shot put: 10.57m
4. Javelin: 25.6m
5. 4x400 relay: 4:01
5 THINGS TO KNOW ABOUT JULIA AERE
1. She started competing in track in her sophomore year of high school (she was a gymnast for 13 years before).
2. Her favorite event is the 200m.
3. She has 5 school records.
4. She does the heptathlon outside of school season (a 7 track event competition made up of 100m hurdles, high jump, shot put, 200m, long jump, javelin, and 800m).
5. She signed to Wake Forest University to run track & field collegiately.
