Mascot Returns To Miami High Rocking books for `Reading Rocks

inside
Long lunch lines,
changing menus, and
lunch activities.
page 2
Getting ready for
college.
page 4
Is that music having
a negative effect on
you?
page 7
English? Spanish?
What is Miami High’s
official language?
page 12
“Just
keep
swimming, just keep
swimming.” Miami
High swim team
moves forward.
page 16
Miami Senior High School
83rd Year, No. 2
November 2006
Mascot Returns To Miami High
By Nicholas Cast
At the center of school spirit, undoubtedly, lies
the school mascot.
Representing
Miami Senior High
is the stingray.
The stingray is
perhaps the most
conspicuous
symbol of Miami
High as it appears
on almost every
Senior Carlos Gonzalez, a handout and
four year fashion design student, occasionally at
designed and made the mascot sporting events
costume at right.
and some student
activities.
According to the book The Stingaree Century
by Miami High alumnus, the cartoon character
“Whippy” was created as the mascot for the
Stingarees in 1960. Whippy’s name derives from
the sort of tail movement a stingray makes when
moving forward.
Did you know that Miami High is one of the
only schools to have a stingray as its mascot? Why
a stingray, you may ask. Mrs. Lunsford, the
chairperson of the family and consumer science
department and a Miami High alumna stated
that it might have something to do with the
abundance of stingrays that inhabited Biscayne
Bay at the time. She said that an interesting
fact about Whippy is that as a stingray, he is
most probably an Atlantic stingray which is
the most common species of stingray found in
Southern Florida.
When you think of football games, you
ultimately assume that the school mascot will
be there to show its support. However, before
this school year, there was no real physical
representation of the mascot at football
games.
Carlos Gonzalez, a senior and 4th year fashion
design student, made the mascot a reality by
designing and making the actual costume.
Carlos said that he got selected from “out of
nowhere”.
He was in his stagecraft class during the
first week of class when Dr. Tosado, the
school principal, came in and offered Carlos
the opportunity to make the mascot. Carlos
gladly accepted, and the mascot made its
first appearance August 25th, 2006, at the pep
rally.
Interested in beinsg the mascot? As of now,
Carlos and a few other individuals are allowed
to dress up as the mascot, but Mrs. Lunsford
noted that activities director Ms. Quintero and
she are planning on making a “Team Whippy”
2
in which people can Continued
sign up to beon
thepage
mascot
Rocking books for ‘Reading Rocks’
By Madison Moreno
“RING!” The bell has rung and we’re off to
the next class. The tardy bell sounds, and we
all know what time it is: Reading Rocks.
According to sophomore Andrew Guedes
and other Miami High students, reading
doesn’t rock—it sucks! He says, “Reading
makes me sleepy. I don’t do it unless I have
a really good book.”
Students should think about doing it because
their teachers are watching! Ms. Waters,
a history teacher, says she can tell if her
students are reading by their eye movements
and the turning of pages. Others, like English
teacher Ms. Martinez, collect reading logs that
contain benchmarks to check if her students
are reading.
Some teachers think that students should be
punished if they don’t read. Ms. Martinez says
“
if her kids aren’t reading, she gives
them a reading quiz. This checks to see
if they are actually reading.
Ms. Waters, however, doesn’t
believe students should be punished
for not reading. “You shouldn’t punish
the students because then it seems
like reading is something they’re
being forced to do. They should be
encouraged to read instead.”
Ms. Waters encourages her kids to
read by talking about good books and
even recommending some such as Pride
and Prejudice, Sense and Sensibility, and
Wuthering Heights. These are all written
by the Bronte sisters and are recommended
mostly for girls.
Students, too, recommend books. Freshman
Anandy Velasquez suggested Eragon and Eldest
by Christopher Paolini who writes books of
fantasy and adventure. Gianni Taylor, also a
freshman, recommended the Gossip Girl series,
which is high school drama between a bunch
of friends. Finally, freshman Linda Rodriguez
suggested all books by Steven King, who writes
horror books.
The MHS librarians, Ms. Estefani and Ms.
Almon, suggested books of all sorts. Shabunu:
Daughter of the Wind is a fictional story about
a girl of the desert.
Regardless of other people’s opinion,
I truly believe this was the best Homecoming ever.
Class of 2008 vice-president Stephanie Bechara
Whippy says:
“Lights, Camera,
ContinuedAction!”
on page 14
”
Continued on page 2
news
2
Stuck in long
Miami Senior High School
By Jessica Suarez
Waiting in line, how exhausting! You wait
in line to get on a ride in the fair, you wait in
line to pay for something, and you even wait
in line in school.
Waiting in line to get your lunch food
with hundreds of kids by your side is
hectic. Students don’t like it. Junior Bryant
Montenegro said, “I hate waiting for my
food, because by the time I get it, it’s cold
and I only have a few minutes to eat.”
Juana Reyes-Linartes, a sophomore, states
that the lines for food are long, boring and
exhausting.
Why the long waits? Assistant principal
Mrs. Garcia said, “The school was built for
fewer people. That’s why we have the carts
outside so that people can get food there.”
In total, the school has eight lunch stations
where students can buy food. Three cashiers
83rd Year, No. 2
The Miami High Times
lunch lines
are in the hot food line in the cafeteria and one
cashier works the salad bar line. Outside two
lunch stations are located in the east patio, and
two are located in the back patio.
With a student population of 3,400 students and
two lunch periods that means that approximately
Many Miami High students wait about 15 minutes for lunch
1,700 students are allotted to eight lunch
stations during each 40 minute lunch period.
If all those students get their lunch at Miami
High that means an approximate average of
212 students must get through each line in less
than 40 minutes.
Lines at the lunch stations can be long. Junior
Christopher Rodriguez, who usually gets his
food from the hot line in the cafeteria, stated
that it takes him about 15 minutes. Maryuri
Ayala, a freshman, and Elvis Romero, a junior,
who both get their food from the outside
stations in the back patio say that it takes
them about 20 minutes. In a 40 minute lunch
period, students are spending almost half of
their lunch time just waiting to be served.
Can the situation be improved? Assistant
principal Mr. Valdes said, “There is nothing we
really can do. Carts have been arranged for the
students.” However, he adds, “If anyone has a
suggestion, we’ll be glad to hear it.”
Giving lunch some ‘spunk’
Can students
change cafeteria By Medardo Cruz
menu?
During the first weeks of school,
By Amy Jaime
We want more food! We
want more food! We want
more food! What happened to
all the food, wonder students
at Miami Senior High. Last
year they had many lunch
time choices including soda,
chocolate, and McDonald’s
cheeseburgers.
Students want to see
different types of food
offered at school. Marvel
Pace, a junior, said, “I would
like to see KFC, B.K, and
McDonald’s.” Jose Lemus, a
junior, said, “I would like to
see Yambo and Taco Bell.”
Can we get more choices?
Ms. Choylan Cipriani, the
cafeteria manager, says,
“Right now it’s not possible
to have more items. Nutrition
is the main goal. We’re
trying to have a balance
between the food being
served and the amount of
students it’s being served
to.”
The school sells a variety
of food, but some items
are students’ favorites.
Ms. Choylan Cipriani said,
“Kids love pizza, macaroni,
and cheeseburgers. We just
try to repeat what students
like the most.”
Fridays at Miami High brought lunch
activities such as music provided
by a live DJ and a performance by
Miami High’s own drum line to the
undercover patio.
Dr. Tosado, the school principal, said,
“The lunch activities were made so
that we can provide the students with
an incentive to come to school, make
it more interesting for them.”
Though Friday lunch activities have
recently stopped activities director Ms.
Quintero, said, “There will be more
lunch activities throughout the year.”
The future of the lunch activities,
however, was threatened for a while.
The second block lunch period risked
losing its activities because of
some of the misbehaviors of
some of the students. During
karaoke some of the students
were caught throwing food
while other students where
performing.
Erik Paguado, a freshman, said,
“It would have been a shame if
they awould have removed the
lunch activities. It was a good
idea to start with because, it
made the lunch period more fun
and entertaining.”
Others at Miami High agree
that the lunch activities are a
good idea. Frank Hernandez, a
freshman, said, “The activities
are a good way to keep the
students entertained and keep
them out of trouble during the
lunch block.” Frank Sangineto, a
freshman, said, “They make the
lunch period more fun, and you can
watch whatever activity is taking
place while you enjoy a nice, warm,
delicious slice of pizza.”
However, there have
been some complaints. Jose Remes,
a senior, said, “Tahey could have
done a better job in selecting the
DJ.” Orestes Dobao, a junior, said,
“The lunch activities make the
lunch block more interesting, but
after a while it gets annoying.”
Alex Bernace, a junior, said, “The
lunch activities are pretty good, but
they should have more school spirit
involved in the activities.”
Cafeteria meals more popular than pizza
By Synthia Felipe
If you were to ask around MHS
what students would rather eat at
lunchtime, the majority would
most probably say pizza. Jose
Martinez, a senior, said, “I prefer
pizza because it’s easier to get, it
tastes better, and it satisfies my
hunger.” Sophomore Eduardo
Reyes said, “I prefer pizza
because I trust it more, and I’m
scared I might find someone’s
hair in cafeteria food.”
However, according to the
cafeteria manager at MHS
Choylan Ciprial, cafeteria food
is what most students eat during
lunchtime. “On average about
700 students eat pizza each day,”
she said, “and about 1,000 eat
cafeteria food each day.”
Obviously some students are
satisfied with cafeteria food. Adrian
Alonzo, a junior, said, “I rather eat
cafeteria food because pizza gets
boring, and it’s not healthy.” Chris
Padron, a senior, said, “I prefer
cafeteria food because it’s more
balanced and nutritional.” Pricilla
Rivera, a senior, said, “Cafeteria
food is way better because it’s free
for me, and I don’t get bored of the
variety of food they give.” Policarpo
Alonso, a senior, said, “Since I’m
on a diet, I prefer cafeteria food
because it’s healthy.”
The cafeteria lunch at MHS
does offer a variety of healthy
choices including chef salads, salad
bars, cold plates, and bag lunches.
According to the Miami Dade Public
School Department of Food and
Nutrition, the typical lunch always
offers a meat and meat alternate,
vegetables, fruits, bread, and other
entrees. The National School Lunch
Act permits students the opportunity
to select three of the five offered
components of the lunch and still
obtain the benefits of the complete
unit priced lunch.
Some students still love to complain
about cafeteria food. Eduardo Reyes,
a sophomore, said, “I eat pizza during
lunch time because cafeteria food is
always leftovers!” Sean Pagoada, a
junior, said, “I hate cafeteria foods
because sometimes the food is burned,
not cooked well, or it just tastes
bad.”
December 2006
Mascot
Continued from front page
“Whippy inspires the students of Miami
High, including me, to be school spirited not
only at games, but school wide,” said John
Mayer, a junior.
It’s rare to find someone who flat out despises
Whippy, but there are a few students who
have constructive criticism. Eddy Guzman,
a sophomore, said, “They should redo the
costume as the mascot isn’t scary.” Mbara
Cisse, a 10th grade Miami high basketball
player, said, “The mascot is OK, but I think
he should be like the mascots on TV and
throw shirts into the crowd.” Mbara also feels
that the mascot should be a little more buff
to provoke fear in opposing schools.
On the contrary, Whitney Adams, a
freshman, says the mascot should be more
feminine
Miami High alumnus math teacher Mr.
David Rodriguez said that when he attended
Miami High, the mascot did not appear
as much as it does now, and there was no
actual physical representation of the mascot
at football games. English teacher Ms.
Puentes noted when she attended Miami
High, the mascot was just there and not all
that important. Ms. Lunsford said that when
she attended Miami High, “The mascot was
on important papers, but that’s about it.”
Continued from front page
Ender’s Game and Ender’s Shadow are science
fiction stories about aliens attacking the earth.
Finally, Twisted Minds is recommended
to those who enjoy watching movies with
torture and/or violence. Winter Dance is an
autobiography about a sled dog racer, and
Oliver’s Story, the sequel to Love Story, is a
romance novel that’s definitely a “good cry”
according to Ms. Almon.
If you find these books are not your type,
you can check the visual search in the media
center for something that catches your
interest. Go to destiny.dadeschools.net on any
computer and search for books.
Now there’s absolutely no excuse not to
read during “Reading Rocks”. So pick up a
book and get on with your day.
THESPIANS
Miami High’s Thespians participated in the
Florida Theatre Conference (FTC) in Lakeland
on November 1-5 where Yvonne Berga received
the All Star Cast Member award. Robert Tassy,
Carlos Gonzalez, and Maria Romero were among
the students who got a second call back from
several universities. Club sponsor Ms. Perdomo
also reports that Thespians will compete at The One
Act Festival at Hialeah High School on November
16. Finally Ms. Perdomo reminds Thespians to
pay their club fee of $10 as soon as possible. (By
Miami Senior High School
The Miami High Times
news
83rd Year, No. 2
December 2006
3
ray animals make
Free tutorings helps students S t M
iami High home
By Edwin Ramos
to go to work from 3:00 to 9:00 pm,” said junior
Hubert Montenegro.
Every year students at Miami High have problems
Students might find time on the weekend. Saturday
with passing their classes. Without the credits for School is another way to receive tutoring in FCAT
the necessary courses, students run the risk of not reading, FCAT math, FCAT science, and SAT
graduating on time. Students at Miami High often preparation. Saturday school runs from 8:30 am to
wait until the last minute to take classes seriously, or 11:30 am. Mr. Valdes said that there are at least 150
they solve their problem by going to summer school. to 200 students who attend Saturday school.
It doesn’t have to be this way.
Junior Eduardo Andrade said, “I go to Saturday
With tutoring offered in reading, English, math, school tutoring for chemistry so I can improve on
science, and history, Miami High students have my quiz and test grades.” Junior Roly Fuentes has
many opportunities to get help passing their classes. gone to Saturday school. “It’s all about the free pizza
Assistant principal Mr. Valdes says, “I want to and soda,” he said.
provide assistance
There are some
to students in the
students that really
subjects they need
don’t care that much
help with.”
for these opportunities.
After school
Junior Michael Torres
tutoring is one
said that he has other
place students can
stuff to do instead of
receive assistance.
going to either after
Mr. Valdes said that
school tutoring or
there are at least 100
Saturday School.”
to 150 students who
Junior Bryan Cubias
attend after school
goes to all the classes
tutoring.
in Saturday school for
Students attend
the credit plus the free
Mr. Yoham tutors in science
for different reasons.
food. Some teachers in
Junior Yahima Cruz
Miami High give extra
goes to improve her
credit to those who go
grades in math. Junior Jenny Castillo attends after to Saturday school.
school tutoring for algebra 2 to improve on her class
For more information on Saturday or after school
grades. Some students would like to attend but don’t tutoring, ask a teacher or talk with Mr. Valdes about
have time. “I would like to attend tutoring, but I have the time and schedules.
By Treniese “Kitty” Stubbs
“Here I come (meow), my first year in high
school to get my education (meow).” I guess
that’s what all the animals say who come
walking into MHS. Besides humans, there are
many stray animals that wander in and around
MHS. Sometimes they even follow the students
around campus begging for a scrap of food
and even perhaps a thorough scratch behind
the ears.
Cats are the most common
animals that can be seen in and
around the school. Students report
seeing cats under the building out
front, in the back patio, and some
say that the science wing smells
like cat urine at times. Dogs even
seem to find they’re way around
the patio in the mornings and on
the fields in the afternoon.
Some students and even
teachers actually feed them or
try to find homes for them. “My
friend Natalie Caballero found an
injured baby pigeon and brought
it to science teacher Mr. Lamba,”
said Catherine Dominguez, a junior and
member of the club Aware. “He took it to a bird
sanctuary where it was helped.”
While some students feel bad for the animals
and try to help, others do the total opposite.
Janise Duboue, a freshman, took a kitten in
that she found at the school. “Some kids were
kicking, screaming at and trying to step on the
kitten that I took in,” she said. “People should
be nicer to the strays and the least they can do
is take them to a shelter.”
Another student who wished to remain
anonymous agreed saying that he witnessed
a few male students throwing things at a baby
bird knowing that it couldn’t fly.
So what exactly are administrators doing
to help the problem? Principal Dr. Tosado
recognized the problem and has hired the
Critter Ridders organization
to take care of the animals.
The Critter Ridders is a trap
and free organization, meaning
that they normally capture the
animals and set them free into
the wild. But when it comes to
domestic animals such as cats,
dogs, ferrets, etc, they trap
them and send them off to an
animal shelter.
As a result of their good
work in and around MHS, the
number of strays found in our
school has lessened. Soon we
might even have a pest free
school and the animals will have a place to
call home. Dr. Tosado agrees, saying that the
amount of animals has indeed decreased. Big
critters, that is. Dr.Tosado acknowledges that
we still have a few mice running around.
Learning responsibility by working in the real world
By Norka Doinguez
According to the website http://jobsearch.about.
Catherine Garcia, who works at Parrot Jungle, says schedule because she only works on weekends.
Getting a job often means becoming more com/cs/justforstudents/a/teenjobs.htm
that the hard part of having a job is “having time to
High school is all about growing up and new go out, do homework, have a social life.”
responsible. Jessica Hernandez, a senior who works there’s no limit on the hours teens ages 16 to 17
experiences. Something new for high school
Many teenagers who work have to balance school as a lifeguard at a public pool, said, “Having a job can work, but if you’re under 18, you can’t work
students is getting a job. Life tends to change for and work together. Maria works from Monday to means more responsibilities.” To Maria, getting a job in a job that the Labor Department considers
working teens. For many, a job is a reality check Thursday every week form 3 pm to 6 pm. Afterwards means having new responsibilities and taking a step hazardous. Many teenagers work in fast
about the real world out there.
she goes home and has to do her chores and homework. towards becoming independent. Goar said, “Having food restaurants, clothing stores, amusement
For Maria
a job means
parks, dollars
Sophomore
Tamayo, a
that I have a
stores, pizza
Brenda Lee
junior, her
responsibility,
places, movie
works about
typical day
which is to
theaters, pet
four or five
has changed
comply with my
supermarkets,
random days a
since she got
work and school
and beauty
weeks from 4
a job as a tutor
demands.”
salons.
pm to 10 pm at
at Auburndale
Have you
Getting an
Fresh Market
Elementary
ever wondered
after school job
as a cashier.
for little kids.
about getting a
really prepares
Celia Viton, a
Maria said,
job? Working
teens for the real
senior, works
“It’s sometimes
teens aren’t
world. Jessica
random days
stressing, and I
allowed to just
s a i d , “ Yo u
of the week
have less time
work
anywhere.
learn what to
from
four
to
Junior Maria Tamayo is a
Senior Celia Viton is a
Junior Catherine Garcia works
on my own or to
There are a lot
expect in the
eleven
pm
at
tutor at Auburndale Elem.
cashier at Party City
at Parrot Jungle
do homework.
of restrictions
working world.”
Party City as a
And it’s bad
when it comes
Catherine said
cashier.
when it comes to school activities.”
to teens, and not many business
it helps her
It isn’t easy when you have to work and go to
Senior Goar Padron, who works in a Winn Dixie, school everyday. A typical day for senior Goar
people or managers will hire teenagers to work for practice her time management. “My job
thinks his job takes a lot of his time. He said, “Little Padron is going to school for about eight hours
them. Usually no teens get hired until the age of 16. makes me more responsible and independent,”
by little it takes your youth away.”
However, some businesses such as Publix will hire said Celia.
and then to work for about seven hours. On the
Working teens start to realize what a job really other hand, Catherine Garcia, has a more flexible
teens at the age of 15.
is and how hard you have to work in it. Junior,
news
4
Miami Senior High School
In The News
BETA
Mr. Hueck, BETA advisor, congratulates all BETA members on
winning first place overall at this year’s Homecoming Parade.
“Great job, members; that hard work paid off,” he said. Hueck also
congratulated the BETA princes and princesses of the Homecoming
Court: Miguel Amaya, George Rubio, Robert Tassy, Mariajose
Alvarado, Yanelle Martinez and this year’s Homecoming Queen,
Maria Luna. Miami High Silver Knight nominees, who are also
BETA members, are: Angela Ballister, Jesula Charles, Sandra
D’Silva, Roger Reyes, Natalie-Marie Sinel and Arrikka Theophile.
Finally, club members who purchased a BETA shirt, pick it up in
Room 022 afterschool. Finally, Mr. Hueck reminds his members,
“DO SERVICE!!!” (By Cyndi Balladares)
Science Department
Mr. Hueck, the head of the Science Department, invites interested
students to attend after school tutoring in science from 2:30 to
3:30. On Monday, Mr. Ceballos and Mrs. Zequeira will be tutoring
Chemistry/Physical Science ESOL in room 015. On Tuesday in
room 184, Mr. Upperco will tutor students for Biology/Earth Space
Science. On Wednesday there will be Science FCAT tutoring in
room 012 with Mr. Yoham as well as Physics/Physical Science
ESOL in room 189 with Mr. Londono. On Thursday, Mr. Hueck
and Mr. Yoham will tutor Chemistry/Physical Science in Room 022
and 020. (By Cyndi Balladares)
Miami Senior High
M i l l i o n D o llar Band
On Saturday November 18 th 2006, the Million Dollar Band
performed at the annual Florida Marching Band Competition
(FMBC) in St.Petersburg, Florida. They placed 5 th out of 18
performing bands and this allowed them to move on to finals that
were held at Tropicana Field, the domed baseball stadium. Not only
did Miami High advance to finals, but they also did this their 2nd
year of competing at state. “The Miami Senior High Million Dollar
Band is a top five, Class A band in the state of Florida,” said band
director Mr. Altamiranda. (By Ingrid Cabrera)
Dance team at Orange bowl
If you thought the Miami Senior Dance club was in recess these days,
you got it all wrong. Now they’re really pumping up that energy,
not only because of their amazing dance instructor Ms T. Wade,
but because they auditioned on October 22 to show their amazing
skills. Out of 50 dancers, 14 made the cut to perform on January
in the Fed Ex Orange Bowl College Championship halftime show.
(By Elaine Cordones)
Business Cooperative Education
Attention, future business leaders! Are you looking for a club that
gives you good experience in the working fields? Do you need help
finding a good job? Come join BCE. BCE, Business Cooperative
Education, is a club that lets you see what work is like, gives you
credit for college, and not to mention, pays you money. Their
meetings are done during Ms. Mason’s 3rd period class either on
Wednesdays or Thursdays almost every 2 weeks. See Ms. Mason
in Room 270 for more information. (By Gina Oliva)
Law M a g n e t
According to Law magnet secretary Maria Reyes, applications to
join the magnet are available for all students in 9th and 10th grade
with a GPA of 2.5. The application process is simple. You fill it out
and include a teacher or counselor recommendation by the deadline
of January 31. When the Law magnet receives the application and
verifies the information, then a letter will be sent to your home
scheduling a meeting with your parents. The purpose of this meeting
is to see if you are qualified to join the magnet program. If you are
approved, then a notification will be sent informing you and your
parents that next school year you are officially part of Miami Senior
High Legal and Public Affairs Program. (By Barbara Hernandez)
The Miami High Times
83rd Year, No. 2
December 2006
Walking out of MHS with a plan
By Ashley Mirabal
News editor
Everyone who graduates from Miami High this year will
leave with a plan, and the school’s administration is not
just saying that to say it. They really mean it, and everyone
is starting to notice this.
“We want our students to be focused and to be heading
towards the right track. We’ve asked students to apply
to college so that they will have an opportunity to attend
a college or university of their choice,” stated assistant
principal Mr. Valdes about the new requirements put into
effect this year.
“We want seniors to succeed and have a bright future
ahead of them, and that starts in college,” stated assistant
principal Ms. Garcia.
Is the administration putting too much pressure on
seniors? Assistant Ms. Mendez said, “It’s not pressure;
we’re just giving them the opportunity to go to college, a
vocational school or the military.”
“We want to prepare students for college, but I don’t
think it’s pressure. We want them to be prepared for
their future career,” said assistant principal Ms. Rembert.
“Also a college graduate makes more money than a high
school graduate, especially with how our economy is
nowadays.”
Some students don’t like this new focus. Senior Jorge
Fuentes said, “I think that the administration is putting too
much pressure on seniors. All of these preparations are
taking away time and developing the concept of college
100% instead of making it a 50-50 deal, half college half
school work.” Senior Lizbell Lucero doesn’t feel pressure
in applying to college, but finds it stressing that seniors
had to do so to be able to be a part of activities such as
the homecoming dance.
Not everyone feels that the administration’s interference
with his or her future is a bad thing. “The administration
is trying to help us by making a plan for us before we leave
high school,” said senior Joselyn Moralez.
Some students see the steps the administration is taking
this year as a way of decreasing the problems of the past
school years. Senior Ruby Garcia said, “I feel that a
lot of the seniors dropped out in the past because of the
administration’s carelessness, but this year they are trying
to lead us down the right path.”
“I feel that they are doing their best to help us for our
senior year, and if they weren’t doing the things they are
doing, students would be skipping more and dropping out
or sleeping in class. They are motivating us to do better,”
stated Nancy Fredric, a senior.
One of the requirements seniors were required to do
in order to go to the homecoming dance was to apply
for college. Seniors had to do so in their English class.
Senior English teacher Ms. Puig said, “I don’t think that
they are putting too much pressure on seniors. I think they
are doing what they are supposed to be doing. It’s about
time.” Ms. Fernandez, another senior English teacher,
said, “I feel that they needed this. They are more aware
about college and they are more on target.”
What to do, when to do it... College calls
By Joseph Castillo
Houston Allergy and Asthma Associates
Scholarship Program award 5 students
a year with one time only grants of
$1,000. Winners must have a C average
or higher and be enrolled in a semester
of 12 hours and must be a patient of
Houston Allergy and Asthma Associates
for a minimum of 1 year.
Now, something that most major
colleges and 4 year universities look for
are SAT/ACT scores school students.
Ms. Valladares said, “If students have
Where do I go? What do I do? Is it too late
to apply? How will I pay for tuition? Those
are just some of the questions seniors have
running through their minds when they think of
college. Students panic at the thought of whether
they will they get accepted to the colleges and
universities of their choice. Miami High has a
person you can go to with any questions dealing
with your college future. This person is CAP
Advisor Ms. Valladares.
“Seniors should already be thinking of college
and where they are going to apply.
Many colleges have what they call roll
in admissions that allow you to apply
at almost anytime. It’s never too late,”
Ms. Valladares said.
Many students are in need of financial
aid for college tuition. Starting on
January 1, 2007, the FAFSA (Free
Application for Federal Student Aid)
form will be available. FAFSA is a
nationwide financial aid application
based on the student’s family income
from the previous year.
Most students might like a scholarship
C.A.P. counselor Ms. L. Valladares
to pay for college, but many don’t
know about the different kinds of
scholarships and what to do to get them. Ms. free lunch, they do not have to pay to
Valladares said, “Some depend on GPA while take the SAT or ACT.” These students
others depend on community service and career will get 2 fee waivers for the SAT and 1
interests. Some even depend on possible health waiver for the ACT; any more after that
defects such as asthma.” For example, the and payment will be necessary. Students
who pay for lunch must also pay to
take the SAT at $41.50 and the ACT
at $43.00 with the writing portion or
$29.00 without the writing portion.
No matter how many times these
tests are taken, colleges will look at
the students’ best scores out of all the
tests taken.
Another important factor in
college applications is your GPA;
many schools look into grades.
Most colleges, both public and
private, expect a minimal GPA of
3.0 weighted. For example, at the
University of Florida only 5.7% of
its admitted students had GPA’s lower
than 3.0 so students should set their
standards high.
Some students wonder whether
4 year universities are better than
community colleges. Ms. Valladares
said, “It depends on students’ goals
and how some students may become
homesick.”
Many senior teachers offer useful
advice to collegebound seniors.
English teacher Ms. Cardona said,
“Seniors should attend all college
workshops and campus visits. The
more you know about yourself,
the better you will do. So students
should start early so they won’t stress
Miami Senior High School
The Miami High Times
news
83rd Year, No. 2
Fighting in school has extreme consequences
By Jose Viton
On Friday October 6, 2006, right after school, four female
Miami High students got in a fight outside the school’s main
entrance. According to Principal Dr. Tosado, the students, whose
names were not released, fought over something unrelated to
school. It was caused by a problem from their neighborhood
which they brought from home.
On Tuesday October 10, Dr. Tosado got on the school’s PA
system to announce that three out of the four fighters, who were
sixteen or older, had been withdrawn from Miami High and the
fourth fighter, who was fourteen, would be recommended for
opportunity school after her 10 day suspension from Miami
Senior High was completed.
In a similar incident, on September 6, 2006, at 2:30 p.m. two
Miami High students got into a fight outside of Burger King,
Miami High’s neighbor. The fight, which began over one
student’s claim that the other had disrespected his girlfriend,
escalated into a three-on-one brawl in which the supposed
disrespecter was helped by two of his cousins who were not
Miami High students. The four fighters were arrested and the two
Miami High students were expelled the next day at school.
The next day over the P.A system, Dr. Tosado announced,
“They have been kicked out of Miami High and it has also
been suggested that they be kicked out of Miami-Dade Public
Schools.”
Dr. Tosado does not believe that the consequences these
students faced for fighting were extreme. “Some things don’t
have second chances,” he said.
Others seem to agree. Girls cross-country coach Mr. Feralls
said, “Ever since day one, Dr. Tosado has said no fighting.”
Social studies teachers Mr. Amador and Mr. Miranda agreed
that if it’s going to prevent future fights and keep the learning
environment safe, then being expelled for fighting is not a bad
choice for a consequence.
According to Dr. Tosado, there is no excuse for fighting, not
even in self-defense. He said, “There is no such thing as selfdefense. If someone approaches you and hits you, turn around
and run away.”
Many students do not agree. Celia Viton, a senior, said that
self-defense is a right that we should all have. Lazaro Perez, a
senior with a black belt in martial arts, says that self-defense
does exist. He said if he is walking down the street and someone
hits his girlfriend, then there is trouble in the area.
Dr. Tosado’s opposition to fighting is not limited to school
hours. He said from the time you leave school at 2:30 P.M
till you arrive home safely, you are still part of his concerns.
Whether you accept that or not, he does not care, but he feels
responsible for you to arrive home safely.
Violence is human nature, but not welcome at school
By Richard Bazails
be because some people are just born more
aggressive, having a chemical imbalance in
their brain. They could have inherited the
violence from their parents. Others might
be unable to control their fits of rage. They
never learned to deal with their anger in
any way but through violence. Some may
have even suffered from childhood trauma,
meaning their parents were always violent
It is said that ever since humans first
appeared on earth, they were violent as a
way to survive in their deadly environment.
Today we have inherited those traits from
our early ancestors. However, in schools
today students are expected to leave their
violent ways at home. According to Mr. Bell,
the head security monitor,
“Students have the right to
Students reflect the problems of the community,
come to school and feel safe
so if we really intend to stop school violence,
and protected.”
we should first focus on all the violence going
Now you may be asking
outside the school.
yourself if people really
do get violent at Miami
Guidance counselor Mr.
Senior High. According
Baine
to assistant principal Ms.
Mendez, fighting is actually down this year.
In fact, only 11 students have been suspended around them.
Many students believe that violence
for fighting during the first quarter, whereas
last year in the first nine weeks there were should be avoided. Senior Cesar Varela
said, “Do everything you can not to resort
65 fight-related suspensions.
to violence. If not, you’ll be singing ‘I’m
Guidance counselor Ms. Valdes
locked up and they won’t let me out’
comments, “Violence in our school has
because Dr. Tosado will throw you in jail.”
dropped drastically mainly because of our
principal, Dr. Tosado, who allows students Senior Jenny Fernandez said, “Although
some people may disagree, violence does
to go to him with their problems and talk
not solve anything. On the contrary, it may
about them.”
Though violence is decreasing at Miami cost you your stay at Miami Senior High
High, this does not mean it is vanishing from School.”
There are many positive ways to redirect
our human nature. According to Mr. Diaz,
the psychology teacher, there are many students’ anger. Mr. Diaz said that students
reasons why students act violently. It could could join sports or clubs, and participate in
“
community work. According to Ms. Valdes,
talking to counselors can give students a
sense that they are being heard and taken
care of. She adds that students need to have
a positive role model to look up to and see
as an example instead of having bad role
models who will encourage them to do
wrong things.
Still when being confronted by another
person, instead of triggering
your anger, there are many ways
of avoiding a confrontation.
Psychology teacher Mr. Diaz said
don’t intimidate the other person,
talk calmly to them, or even leave
if necessary. Security monitor
Mr. Bell said that in the student
code of conduct, it is written that
if students feel threatened in any
way, they have the right to report it to any
administrator or teacher.
Will schools ever be free from violence?
Guidance counselor Mr. Bain said, “Students
reflect the problems of the community, so if
we really intend to stop school violence, we
should first focus on all the violence going
outside the school.”
There are also some who still have high
hopes to see a future in which there is no
more violence in our schools. “There was
once a time when they said that schools
would not be integrated, and now we have
accomplished that,” said medical skills
teacher Ms. Fletcher.
”
5
December 2006
H o m e c o m i n g fl o a t s
now built on campus
By Nancy Moore
After about 25 years of tradition here at Miami High, the
administration considered canceling homecoming floats.
Complaints from parents about their houses getting destroyed
during the construction of floats was one of the motivating
factors. There were also reports of students attacking other
clubs’ floats with paintballs.
Our new principal Dr. Tosado, however, did not agree and
said that there will be floats. “The actions from a few people
should not be taken out on everybody else,” he said.
Unlike the past years, when Homecoming floats were built
at a club member’s house, this year club members will build
their float on school grounds. Dr. Tosado said that they will be
supervised not only by their advisor; they will also be watched
by security. Anybody who tries to destroy or paintball the floats
will be suspended from school and sent to jail. Those who do
not attend Miami High will automatically be sent to jail for
trespassing. Security will be present from 8-9 p.m. at night and
6-7a.m. in the morning everyday until the day of the parade.
“We were not certain that we could ensure student safety, by
the way things were done in the past,” said activities director
Ms. Q. A number of incidents happened. Students were injured
even though there was parental supervision. “Two years ago a
parent got hit by a paint ball,” Ms. Q. said.
Numerous floats were hit last year. Club rivals decided to go
one step further and trash each other’s floats just days before
the parade. One of the 1st clubs to be hit was Honoria. Club
members from Honoria claimed to have seen a white car and a
black truck circling around where the float was being built.
It was my house that got hit with paintballs around 11:00 to
12:00 p.m. My parents got really upset and called the police.
My dad went after them and only identified the same white
car we had seen earlier.
The second float that was trashed was LEO’s. According to
Paola Paz, current LEO president, her club members didn’t go
paintballing, even though they wanted to.
An anonymous member said that their float got completely
destroyed, and they had to start all over again the last day.
But their main concern was when one of their members,
Peter Torres, got jumped. The anonymous member said,
“Peter got brutally injured by members of the Little People.”
Javier Quinones was the club president of LEO at the time.
Like Honoria LEO also identified a black truck that attacked
them.
But according to Little People’s president from last year,
Steve Lopez, “We didn’t paintball anybody, but we did get
hit by a drive by.” None of the members identified any car.
Luckily for them, their float didn’t get destroyed badly. The
reason why they didn’t present a float last year was because
they couldn’t tow it.
The black truck was said to be owned by a member of Little
People. This automatically made Little People’s suspects in the
paintball shooting. No one else has identified the white car.
The PAX club president Luisa Ramirez said, “We were also
hit, but they made a dumb move because (Junior Class sponsor)
Shadow was there when they hit us.”
The rumors have been cleared. There will be no more building
floats at home. To provide safety to the students, the tradition
will continue but on school grounds
6
opinion
December 2006
Miami Senior
High School New
The Miami
High Times 83rd
Year, No. 2Criticizing
Get
To Know
Principal
Before
Boost your GPA, get ready for college: Take an AP class?
By Stephanie Bechara
Business Manager
Your GPA, or grade point average,
is extremely important, not because
it signifies your intelligence, because
it really doesn’t, but because it
displays how well you perform your
job as a student over a long period of
time. Grades reflect your consistency
and reliability. Most people are aware
that a strong GPA and high test scores
are essential requirements for being
admitted to college.
GPA is a concern for most students
here at Miami Senior High, especially
juniors and seniors. How can you
boost your GPA? Many students take
Advanced Placement (AP) classes to
enhance their GPA. But is it really worth
it? AP classes give you a lot more work
and are more difficult too. AP classes
are time consuming and stressful; they
might also take away time from other
helpful activities.
“AP is not meant for everyone,” said
CAP Advisor Ms. Valladares. “It’s for
good students who apply themselves.”
Obtaining an A or a B in an AP course
gives you 2 extra points. For example
an A in a regular class is 4 points but an
A in an AP course is 6 points. Obtaining
a C in an AP course gives you 1 extra
point. Obtaining a D or an F in an AP
course will give you no extra points.
All of the extra points are considered
in your weighted GPA. If you take AP
classes and get good grades, your GPA
example, is taking AP Government &
Economics, AP English Literature, and
AP Biology. She said, “I am taking so
many AP classes because I want to
pass them and get a college credit.
I also want to challenge myself.
The truth is, I somewhat regret
is likely to increase.
Some students feel overwhelmed
with the amount of AP classes they
are taking. Laura Pereira, a senior, for
taking all of those classes my senior
year. It’s simply too much to do.”
Many students taking AP classes in
Miami Senior High find them to be
Miami High: Getting
better or worse with age?
By Emily Gonzalez
Miami High was founded in 1903.
Yup, this school’s old. It was the first
high school in Miami, but have you ever
thought how Miami High has changed
from back then?
Ms. Brantley, an English teacher for 24
years at Miami High, said, “The school
has improved due to many alternative
programs which are geared toward future
professions such as the teaching magnet
and law magnet.” She believes students
are also getting a better education now
due to Miami High’s technology trends.
Ms. McClyde, another long time
English teacher at Miami High, also
said, “There have been many positive
improvements in the physical plant. The
atmosphere appears to generate and move
forward. Many students are taking more
responsibilities for their learning, and one
day will become someone in life.”
That does not mean this is something
new at Miami High. She noted, “Students
have always had an opportunity to
become ‘better educated’ here at Miami
Senior High. It’s part of our tradition.”
Extracurricular activities at Miami
High have also improved. Ms. Brantley
said, “Many sports and clubs are similar
to those to the past, although a few more
clubs have surfaced.” For example,
BETA, Key, SECME, and chess are clubs
that have been added to make the school’s
environment better.
Ms. McClyde said, “I see students
becoming more involved, mostly
freshmen.” When it comes to sports,
Roberto Gonzalez, a student at Miami
High during the 1990’s, said, “I think
the sport teams’ management has
remained the same, but the uniforms
have improved.”
Some people believe the school has
gotten a little stricter due to the new and
improved administration. Ms. Brantley
said, “Many students need the strictness
such as no cell phone usage during school
hours, mandatory uniforms, and a cleaner
school.”
Ms. McClyde said, “The administration
is not tolerant of misconduct. I’m not sure
if stricter is a better choice of words, but
enforcement is.”
Not everything is perfect, however, at
the new Miami High. Ms. Brantley said,
“As in the past, some students now see
the big picture ahead, their future, while
others refuse to realize that one day they
will become an adult, and then what? As
in the past some students want to learn
and gain, while others don’t.”
overpowering, but rewarding in the
near future.
“AP has its difficulties because it
requires time and effort. Honestly
I hate it,” said junior Maria Lui,
who‘s interested in the field of
business administration, “but in the
end I know it’s for
my future. I wish
to be successful
in my career, and
will start as early
as now.”
According to
the College Board
website (www.
CollegeBoard.
com), studies
show that
students who
take demanding
classes in high
school are
successful
in college.
Colleges search
for students that
challenge themselves.
AP courses give you a taste of
college level work and could give
you credits towards college, if you
score high enough on the AP exam at
the end of the year. AP tests are scored
on a numeric scale of 1 to 5. According
to the College Board website, a score
of 5 means extremely well-qualified.
A score of 4 means well-qualified. A
score of 3 means qualified. A score of
2 means possibly qualified. A score
of 1 means no recommendation. Each
college’s policy is different, but most
colleges accept scores of 4 or 5. Some
schools, such as FIU, accept scores
of 3.
With AP courses you study the
course in more detail and depth; this
can improve your writing skills. In
AP courses you learn more problem
solving techniques, and the peers
around you are those who strive for
achievement and are willing to learn.
Taking classes with others who are as
willing as you are, makes the class go
smoother with fewer class behavior
interruptions.
Nelson Cartaya, Junior Board
Advisor, said, “AP classes are there
to get you ready for college level. AP
courses challenge you academically
and bring up high school expectations.
Those who don’t take AP courses,
Miami Senior High School
The Miami High Times
opinion
83rd Year, No. 2
December 2006
7
Teens’ risky business of sex and drugs Breakfast: Best
By Evelyn Laguna
Business Manager
This school year rules have gotten
stricter, but some students still
choose to not obey the rules. On
October, 16 principal Dr. Tosado
announced that two students had
been caught smoking marijuana and
had been expelled from school.
Regardless of the consequences,
it seems like teens will engage in
risky behaviors. “There was a night
that I got completely wasted, and the
next day I woke up not knowing if I
had sex,” said a female senior who
wishes to remain anonymous.
Truth be told, this student is not
alone. Many students are involved
in some risky “extracurricular
activities.” Even in younger
students, we see this pattern. “I
have sex because it feels awesome,”
said a male sophomore who wishes
to remain anonymous.
Students may be involved in
sexual relationships, but rarely stop
to think of the consequences. Some
students are already dealing with the
consequences. “A close friend of
mine was sexually active and was
later pregnant. She regretted this
and her parents were devastated,”
said senior Juan Vega.
Some teens know what a scare is
when having sexual relationships.
“The first time my girlfriend and
Miami Senior High
Times
2450 S.W. 1st Street
Miami, FL 33135
(305) 649-9800
Times is the official publication
of Miami Senior High School.
Opinions expressed on the editorial
page do not necessarily reflect the
viewpoints of the school. Times
welcomes readers’ opinions on all
topics. All letters must be signed.
The editors and the editorial board
reserve the right to reject, edit or
shorten letters. All letters should
be turned in to Dr. DeNight in
room 328.
I started having sex, we got scared
because she started having headaches,
got nauseous, and her period came
late,” said a sophomore who wishes
to remain anonymous.
Some students don’t think it will
happen to them. Even wearing
condoms can’t guarantee that you
won’t get pregnant. “I used condoms
and started taking birth control pills
when I started being sexually active,
and I still got pregnant,” said alumna
Mari Murillo. “I had a beautiful baby
boy, but I wish I had waited.”
This is the way many students feel
about the actions they take, but none
can take them back. “I went to a party
one night, and I had the hugest crush
on this guy. He approached me, we
started talking, and one thing led to
another, and we hooked up. I later
found out he told his friends, and they
all labeled me a hoe. I felt dirty and
misled,” said a senior who wishes to
remain anonymous.
Others crack under pressure. “I
always wanted to wait till marriage
till I had sex, but temptation got the
best of me. Being with my boyfriend
for 3 years off and on, I finally gave
in and I had to break up with him
because he changed after we had sex.
I don’t regret it, but I should have
been smarter and just have waited,”
said junior Alejandra Saravia.
Drugs, like sex, can also be a risky
venture for teens. Getting wasted, to
some students, is a lifestyle they’ve
become so accustomed to that it
just becomes like taking a sip of
water. “I get high and drunk every
weekend with my friends; it’s like
the thing to do on weekends,” said a
senior female who wishes to remain
anonymous.
Drugs are no laughing matter;
they can impair your reasoning and
your memory. “I went clubbing on a
Editorial Board Staff Writers
Editor-in-Chief:
Yanichel Castillo
Sr. Editor-in-Chief:
Cindy Reyes
Business Manager:
Stephanie Bechara
Copy Editors:
Kelly Chavez
Anthony Darce
Julia Gonzalez
Osmin Herrrera
Yohana Ravelo
News Editor:
Ashley Mirabal
Layout Editors:
Madison Moreno
Indira Suriel
Graphic Editors:
Natalie Caballero
Elizabeth Herrera
Sports Editors
Joseph Castillo
Medardo Cruz
Cyndi Balladares
Daniela Barboza
Richard Basails
Karna Bermudez
Adeline Bourdin
Natalie Cabellero
Ingrid Cabrera
Kayleigh Campagna
Carymir Casalvilla
Joseph Castillo
Elaine Cordones
Medardo Cruz
Norka Dominguez
Lilliam Garay
Abraham Hernadez
Evelyn Laguna
Vanessa Macias
Dyanna Manzanares
Carolina Navarro
Mercedes Nieto
Emily Quintero
Janelle Sardina
Treniese Stubbs
Marisol Vila
Rodneisha Weatherspoon
“I used condoms and
started taking birth
control pills when I
started being sexually
active, and I still got
pregnant,” said alumna
Mari Murillo. “I had a
beautiful baby boy, but I
wish I had waited.”
Saturday night and when I got out of
the club, I went to the beach to get
high, and I had the hugest fight with
my best friend. The next morning I
couldn’t remember the fight,” said a
junior female who wishes to remain
anonymous.
Whatever your stand is on having
sex or the using drugs, be wise
about your decisions. I’m not going
to sit here and say I’m a saint, but
we should all be careful. Sure these
might be the best years of life, but
that doesn’t mean that they should be
wasted on drugs and unprotected sex.
Don’t let someone easily persuade
you and get the best of you.
Jennifer Acosta
Jessica Aleman
Giselle Avila
Gerardo Barrios
Angela Bassas
Victor Betancourt
Nicholas Cast
Elizabeth Chirino
Kenia Dolmuz
Synthia Felipe
Roy Franco
Eva Funmayor
Emily Gonzalez
Barbara Hernandez
Elizabeth Herrrera
Amy Jaime
Eliazbeth Lopez
Elias Lopez-Aburto
Nancy Moore
Grecia Ney
Gian Oliva
Anthony Perez
Ronald Perez
Edwin Ramos
Carlos Rodriguez
Joanna Ruffin
Liliana Salguero
Jessica Suarez
way to start the
day
By Carymir Casalvilla
Ever since we were little,
our parents always told us
that the most important meal
of the day was breakfast.
Well, is this theory really
true?
During the first weeks
of school, Miami High
administrators would get on
the P.A. everyday and invite
students to eat breakfast for
free in the school cafeteria.
Why? Principal Dr. Tosado
replied, “A healthy start is
important.”
According to some
students, breakfast, indeed,
is the most important meal
of the day. Freshman Genesis
Gonzalez said, “Breakfast is
the most important meal of
the day because it gets your
body started.” Freshman
Christopher Suce, “It gives
you energy for the first
periods of the day.” Freshman
Veronica Varquez said, “It is
important because it’s very
healthy.”
Miami Senior High serves
free breakfast every morning.
They usually serve muffins,
cereal, toast, eggs, fruit, and
much more. They serve it in
the cafeteria. Breakfast is
free for all students.
Some Miami Senior High
students would rather eat at
home. Freshman Georgina
Garcia said, “I eat at home
because I don’t like what
they serve and I eat cereal.”
Freshman Judith Otero said,
“I eat at home and sometimes
at school; I eat eggs, toast
and a glass of juice.” Jocelyn
Casalvilla, a freshman, said,
“Sometimes I eat at home; I
eat bacon with eggs.”
Students should eat
breakfast every morning. If
you don’t eat breakfast, you
might feel bad, lack strength,
not pay attention, and be
hungry.
A good breakfast
is healthy for your body.
Don’t stop yourself from
eating healthy food that will
improve your focus in school
and ability to learn.
8
opinion
Miami Senior High School
The Miami High Times
83rd Year, No. 2
December 2006
Great song...Do you know how much that degrades women?
By Indira Suriel
Layout Editor
I got your b**** in my Rover man.
I never kiss her.
I never hold her hand.
In fact I diss her I’m a bolder man.
I’mma pimp her, it’s over man.
This is a portion of the lyrics of the
song Is that your chick, by rapper
Jay-Z.
TRUST counselor Ms. Avila, whether
a teenager is influenced by music or
not, depends on the individual. Some
students
h a v e
people as much as any visual media.”
According to this website, teenagers
rate music ahead of religion, books
individuality and a strong character
so they go unaffected by music, but
others are trying to find an identity
and resort to music as a source.
From fashion to simple trends,
the media influence teenagers. In
the website cwfa.org, sponsored by
Concerned Women For America,
child psychologist Dr. David Elkind
states, “Music can influence young
and television as factors that greatly
influence their generation.
Rap often labels and categorizes
people and very often sets criteria
of how men have to be in order to
be masculine. Sophomore Jessica
Rodriguez believes that rap influences
high school students because boys act
a certain way in order to feel accepted
by their peers. “They go around
trying to be pimps,” she said.
When I’m in the mall hoes just
pause….
B****** in the back. Black beamer
coups.
Girls like girls time to recruit.
These are lyrics from the very famous
song Going Down by Young Joc.
I got old school b****es and new
school hoes
Female basketball players with corn
roles
And I don’t like shardell girls
No not really,
If I do she got to look like the old
Halle Berry
Or the Broke Toni Braxton or first
Lil Kim
But I still take hood rats and work
with them.
This is a portion of the song Hoes by
rapper Lil Wayne.
Does listening to such lyrics affect the
way women are viewed? According to
This influence that boys have by
rap is done through the example
that rappers set for those who look
up to them. For
example, if your
favorite rapper is
your role model,
and he has many
girls to whom he
doesn’t give much
importance to,
then it’s generally
common for you
to want to have
many girls also.
“Some guys are
influenced by rap;
you can tell just
by the way they
treat girls,” said
sophomore Junior
Gonzales.
Some students
feel like rap music
often degrades
women. “I feel
like even though
I like and listen to rap, it sends a
strong message to people my age
defining women as objects rather
than individuals,” said senior Genesis
Yera. “I like rap but I do have to admit
that maybe, if it weren’t for rap, I
wouldn’t look at some girls the way
I do,” said senior Gabriel Perez.
To others, this music is just
entertainment, and teenagers are
mature enough to know that it’s only
music. “Music has no influence on
teenagers. Some might use the fact
that kids listen to rap as an escape
route and blame the way teenagers are
on rap,” said senior Goar Padrón.
“Rap is just music. People like
to exaggerate and say that it’s bad,
but it is what we like, the same way
our parents liked disco back in the
seventies,” said freshman Melissa
Otero.
Videos also come into play because
rap music today is based on videos.
They provide a visual of what the
song is speaking of. For example
in Ludacris’s new rap video for the
song Shake your money maker, many
women with barely any clothes shake
their bodies on just one guy.
Some feel that videos are an
essential part of entertainment and
have no negative function. “Videos
are entertaining, and really that’s
what they are made for, so there’s
absolutely nothing wrong with them,”
said senior Jose Ramos.
Others disagree and feel that these
videos objectify women. “Most rap
videos portray women as sexual
objects who have the sole purpose
of standing around and looking sexy.
This demeans us because there is
more to us than just a pretty face,”
said senior Tirhana Hernandez.
That music could be having an effect on you
Chabela Rodriguez, a sophomore,
said, “ I think that music
influences those who want to be
influenced by it. Some people
listen to music for what it is, but
others can take it too literally.”
By Lizzy Herrera
Whether you listen to rap, rock, pop or R&B
every genre has an effect on its listeners. Or
does it?
“Music influences who you are, the friends
you hang out with, where you hang out, your
attitude towards people. Basically it defines
who you are,” said Lyani Inigo, a junior.
Some think that music is an excuse for
teens to behave badly. Chabela Rodriguez, a
sophomore, said, “I think that music influences
those who want to be influenced by it. Some
people listen to music for what it is, but others
can take it too literally.”
Research seems to back this up. In the August
issue of the journal Pediatrics, a study suggested
that teens that said that they listened to a lot of
music with degrading sexual messages were
twice as likely to start having intercourse or
other sexual activities within the following two
years compared to other teens who listened to
little or no sexually degrading music.
Some people seem to agree. Catherine Chavez,
a sophomore, said, “A lot of music artists are
talking about sex and degrading women; that’s
why teenagers today are so sexually driven.”
Sometimes music can lead people to do
wrong things. According to the entry for the
Columbine Massacre in Wikepedia (www.
wikipedia.org), in 1999, after the Columbine
High School massacre, it was reported that
the shooters were influenced by Marilyn
Manson, a gothic performer who has songs
with lyrics such as, “The death of one is
a tragedy, the death of a million is just a
statistic…” and “Celebrated victim of your fame
Just cut our wrists like cheap coupons and say
that death was on sale today…”
Many people disagree with this
theory. Tanya Obando, a freshman,
said, “I don’t think people should
blame Marilyn Manson for what these
two kids did. All he’s trying to do is
express his feelings through music,
but some people took it too far.”
Music doesn’t always have a
negative effect on people. “Music
helps cheer me up when I’m bummed
out,” said Helem Rivera, a junior.
“Simple Plan is one of my favorite
bands because they sing about
typical problems that teenagers go
through.”
Music can also help people learn.
Rolando Lezcano, a senior, said,
“Rise Against is a political band that
has made me realize all the problems
we have today in the world, and this
has encouraged me to become an
environmentalist and worry more
about the environment.”
Music can also have an effect on
a teen’s sense of style. Sophomore
Catherine Chavez said, “Avril
Lavigne has influenced me in the
Catherine Chavez, a sophomore,
said, “A lot of music artists are
talking about sex and degrading
women; that’s why teenagers
today are so sexually driven.”
way she dresses and the way she does
her hair.”
Miami Senior High School
The Miami High Times
features
83rd Year, No. 2
December 2006
9
Service clubs have fun while helping others BETA! BETA! BETA!
By Janelle Sardina
BETA, Honoria, Pax, Key, and Interact are the different clubs
at Miami High with one thing in common. They all help out the
community by volunteering
their time.
The most important part
of being in a service club is
doing service, and there are
many ways to do community
service. Students can go to
their nearest hospital or clinic.
They can volunteer in a day
care and take care of young
children. They can also come
to Miami High on teacher
work days to help teachers by
checking papers and making
copies.
Service clubs have their
own place to do hours. Pax
members go to a community
center called Abriendo Puertas
where they help distribute clothes and food. Interact advisor
Mr. Rodriguez said that Interact members do service by
volunteering in the concession stand in football games and
doing beach clean-ups.
Service clubs are not all about work, work, and more work.
These clubs actually have fun together. They have socials to the
movies, to the pool, and many more places. BETA, Honoria,
and Pax have their own annual Thanksgiving and Christmas
dinners. When the socials take place, the clubs feel more like
a family. Honoria member Abisai
Hernandez said, “We have a close
bond. We even sit together at
lunchtime.”
All service club members must
complete a minimum number of
volunteer hours in order to be
in these clubs. BETA requires
40 hours for new members and
30 for old members. Honoria
requires 20 hours. Pax requires 35
hours. Interact is only requiring 15
hours because Mr. Rodriguez is
rebuilding the club. He stated that
this will change in the future.
People join service clubs for
various reasons. BETA president
Isamara Berrios joined because
she was inspired by BETA’s advisor Mr. Hueck. Abisai
joined Honoria because his friends were in it and he wanted
to be closer to them.
Learning the real world of photography
By Jessica Aleman
Miami Senior High offers a variety of vocational courses, which
give you a head start towards your career goal. Photography is
one of these courses. It is offered to all students, grades 9-12,
at beginner, intermediate, and advanced levels.
Students enjoy this class to a maximum. Second-year students
Cynthia Garcia, a junior, says, “I was given the class without
requesting it during my sophomore year, and I absolutely loved
it! That’s why I decided to get it for a second year. It’s fun, and
you always learn something new, and you work on many cool
projects.”
Meylin Colocho, also a junior, says, “The class is excellent.
It’s definitely not your usual
boring class. One of my most
memorable experiences was
the model photo shoot in
which I got to take pictures of
my model all throughout the
school and I was also a model
for one of my classmates,
which was awesome!”
According to Mr. Rodriguez,
the communication and
photography teacher, you just
don’t learn to snap pictures.
First year students learn how
to use a camera correctly to
process the film, and to create
prints. Also, this course teaches basic advertisement and design
principles, and basic computer graphics with Apple computers.
Students also learn silk screen process, the kind of print you see
on most t-shirts today, which is also a very large industry in
South Florida. Students who take this course also have a better
understanding as consumers because they learn how advertising
works which teaches them not to buy products that they don’t
really need.
Second-level students begin learning photographic composition
and quality in shooting. Also they learn digital and computer
processing of photographs and computer graphics, and they gain
more experience in dark room work. They are required to build
a mini portfolio of their work. Third level is more elaborate and
students are required to have a complete portfolio by then.
Like many production classes, photography has a lab or
production fee: $40 for first year students and $60 for second and
third year students. Mr. Rodriguez says, “This is to supplement
the funds that we get for material purchases, since photography
is an expensive program.” At Miami Senior High, he says, we
have the most inexpensive program for students in Dade County
which provides for cameras, film, chemicals, and photographic
paper in all the sizes needed.
The communication and photography program at Miami Senior
High sets itself apart from
the photography programs
taught at other schools.
Many schools, especially
private campuses, require
students who enroll in their
photographic program,
to have some sort of
background knowledge.
It’s a whole other story
at Miami High. Students
enter the program without
even knowing how to
work a camera, and they
finish the year knowing
how to process their own
film! Photography is a hands-on class, and Mr. Rodriguez helps
his student and works with them at their pace.
This year it’s a full house! Mr. Rodriguez teaches all eight
periods. He has five first-level classes, three second-level classes,
and one third-level class. Overall he’s working with 238 students
this school year.
By Eva Fuenmayor
“Often imitated, never duplicated,” says BETA service club
president Isamara Berrios, when asked what does BETA mean
to her.
The National Beta club, one of the most recognized and
oldest clubs here at Miami High, has received many honors
throughout the years. For instance, last school year they earned
1st place service club.
Their accomplishments for the 2006-2007 year include
2 nd place in “Can it”
and in the “Penny War”
drive for United Way.
Also, their homecoming
parade theme “Grease”
won 1st place overall.
As member Robert
Tassy says, “Beta has
to be one of the best,
if not the best, club at
Miami High. We are
involved, united, fun,
and give back to the
community.”
Being one of the best service clubs at Miami High has its
price. While other service clubs require a minimum 2.0 GPA,
BETA requires its members to maintain a 3.0 GPA.
New BETA members are required to complete 40 hours
of service during their first month of membership. Veteran
members must complete 30 hours of service each month.
“BETAs never rest,” says club adviser Mr. Hueck. “They
work all year, including summer.” BETA contributes to most
school functions as escorts for different activities such as open
house, parent night, PTSA meetings, and at University of
Miami games. Over the summer they helped teachers cleaning,
painting, organizing and decorating classrooms.
BETA is famous for attracting the most recognized students at
Miami High which include: Class valedictorians/ salutatorians,
Honor Grads, Silver Knight nominees, Hall of Fame members,
student athletes, class officers, club officers, honor students,
and Advanced Placement students.
Students’ perspectives of helping the community have
improved due to BETA. Senior Kimberly Vargas says, “It has
helped me be a better person by showing me the community
needs people who care and encouraging me to make a
difference.”
BETA this BETA that…but, what is really BETA? Senior
Diego Matayoshi says, “BETA is unity and above all we go by
the motto: character, leadership and achievement. There are no
more words to describe what BETA really is.”
Senior Mariel Duron says, “BETA is an awesome club! BETA
has shown me the quality of unity, discipline and responsibility
as well as an amiable environment.”
BETA Secretary Jessica Ramirez says, “BETA is important
to me because it has taught me the leadership, discipline and
features
10
Miami Senior High School
The Miami High Times
83rd Year, No. 2
December 2006
Sex and its many consequences Rock vs. Rap
By Karina Bermudez
“Damn, that girl is fine. I want to hit that.”
Many teenage boys think this way when they
see a pretty girl pass by, but do they really
know what the consequences are of having sex?
There are diseases, pregnancy and sometimes
emotional issues.
According to the American Social Health
Association (ASHA.org), one out of four teens
in the United States becomes infected with a
sexually transmitted diseases (STD) each year,
and by the age of 25, half of all sexually active
young adults will get an STD.
Some diseases to watch out for when
you have sex, says the ASHA website, are
Chlamydia, genital warts, gonorrhea and HIV/
AIDS. Chlamydia is one of the most common
sexually transmitted diseases in the U.S. The
infection is easily spread because it symtoms
don’t always occur.
Genital warts is a human papillomavirus
infection and is one of the worst transmitted
diseases because it can cause cervical and
penile cancer. Gonorrhea is a contagious
disease transmitted most often through sexual
contact with an infected person. According to
Webmd.com, some STDs such as HIV/AIDS
cannot be cured and are deadly.
Sexual activity doesn’t just affect your
physical health; it affects your emotional wellbeing as well. According to the American Social
Health Association, teenage boys and teenage
girls who are sexually active are significantly
less likely to be happy and more likely to
feel depressed. A full quarter of teenage girls
who are sexually active report that they are
depressed all, most, or a lot of the time.
According to Webmd.com, teenage sexual
activity is an issue of widespread national
concern. Although teen sexual activity has
declined in recent years, the overall rate is still
high. Nearly 3 in 10 (27%) 13-16 year-olds are
sexually active. Sexually activity is much more
common among 15-16 year-olds (41%) than
13-14 year-olds (14%).
Pregnancy is another negative effect of
early sexual activity. According to Miami High
TRUST counselor Ms. Avila, teen pregnancy
has been going up and down throughout the
years. According to the website Guttmacher.org,
the pregnancy rate for U.S. teens aged 15-19
decreased 36% between 1990 and 2002. After
peaking at 117 pregnancies per 1,000 females
aged 15-19 in 1990, the pregnancy rate has
decreased to 41 pregnancies per 1,000 females
aged 15-19. In 2000, some 240,000 children
were born to girls aged 18 or younger.
The best way to avoid all the negative effects
of early sexual activity is to practice abstinence
until you are married. Some students have
their own opinions on whether or not they will
wait to have sex till marriage. Javier Garcia, a
freshman, said, “It’s against my religion to have
sex before marriage. Not only that, but I would
like to wait until I find someone special that I
would be with for a long time.” Jose Garcia, a
sophomore, said, “I’ll wait because when you
get married, you are sharing your life with that
person and creating a family.” Zayuri Webb, a
sophomore, stated, “Yes, I will wait because
it’s not worth losing your virginity now to a
guy, and you don’t even know if he really cares
about you.”
On the other hand, Jonathan Fraga, a
freshman, said, “I wouldn’t wait because once
you’ve done it for the first time, you can’t stop
doing it.”
One way to prevent pregnancy and diseases
is to always have save sex. According to
the website Avert.org, condoms are the only
form of protection which can help to stop the
transmission of sexually transmitted diseases
such as HIV and prevent pregnancies.
Birth control pills contain the hormones
estrogen and progesterone that prevent
pregnancies. However, the birth control pill
alone provides no protection against STD’s.
The truth about the ‘Morning after pill’
By Cindy Reyes
Sr. Editor-in-Chief
On August 26, 2006, the U.S. Food and Drug
Administration (FDA) announced the approval
of Plan B, a contraceptive drug, as an overthe-counter option for women aged 18 and
older. Plan B, also known as the morning after
pill, is available as an over the counter drug at
most pharmacies, but, the FDA reports, some
pharmacies may still choose not to have the
drug in-stock. Perhaps behind-the-counter is
more accurate then over-the-counter because
pharmacists can ask people for proper ID
to determine their age before providing the
contraceptive.
Although people talk about ‘the morning-after
pill’, this term is actually misleading. In fact,
you don’t have to take the pill on ‘the morning
after’ having unprotected sex. In reality, it is
effective for up to 72 hours (three days) from
the time of unprotected intercourse. However,
according to the website http://en.wikipedia.
org/wiki/Morning-after_pill, the earlier you
take it, the better it works. It works best if taken
within 24 hours of unprotected sex.
Not everyone thinks that increasing access to
this pill is a good idea. Ms. Turner, a medical
skills teacher, says, “I don’t think the morning
after pill should be over the counter. It sends
a bad message to young people that they can
have unprotected sex, and I also think the STD
rate is going to go up.”
Others are more positive. “I think Plan B
is good under certain circumstances. It has
less risk than abortion,” said senior Aracelly
Zelaya.
According to the website http:/www.
netdoctor.co.uk/, Plan B works something
like a birth control pill. It prevents pregnancy
mainly by stopping the release of an egg from
the ovary, and may also prevent the fertilization
of an egg (the uniting of sperm with the egg).
It takes from 24 to 72 hours for a pregnancy
to occur after having intercourse. Plan B may
also work by preventing the fertilized egg from
attaching to the uterus.
It is important to know that Plan B will
not affect a fertilized egg already attached
to the uterus; it will not affect an existing
pregnancy. According to the website http:/
www.netdoctor.co.uk/, the morning after pill
isn’t the same thing as the so called abortion
pill. Mifepristone, the abortion pill, is used
to end a pregnancy that is less than 49 days
in duration. It works by stopping the supply
of hormones that maintain the interior of the
uterus. Without these hormones, the uterus
cannot support the pregnancy and the contents
of the uterus are expelled. While the morning
after pill prevents pregnancy, the abortion pill
terminates an established pregnancy, one that
has attached to the uterine wall and has already
begun to develop.
The Netdoctor website says that Plan B is used
to prevent an unplanned pregnancy; it will not
work if you’re already pregnant. If you
By Gina Oliva
In almost every high school, there are two
major groups: the “rappers,” who wear baggy
clothes and have “grillz” on their teeth, and the
“rockers,” who wear clothing with dangling
chains with tears at the hems of their jeans.
According to Wikipedia.org, rock music
emerged in the 1950’s with African American
artists like Chuck Berry and Little Richard. In
the 1960’s, they had bands like ‘The Doors’
and ‘The Beatles’. Then in the 1970’s, bands
such as ‘The Rolling Stones’, and ‘Black
Sabbath’ became very popular. Now music has
changed and gotten a bit heavier with bands like
“Slipknot” and “Mudvayne”.
According to Wikipedia.org, hip-hop and rap
have roots in the 1950’s with James Brown, but
got larger in the 1970’s and 80’s with artists
such as ‘Grand Masterflash’ and ‘Sugar Hill
Gang.’ Now, artists like ‘Pitbull’ and ‘Three
Six Mafia’ that have teenagers talking.
Rock music has always had an influence on
those who have their own ideas and aren’t afraid
to express them. “I like it because it’s like the
song is saying what I feel inside about certain
stuff,” says 10th grader Mickey Figueredo.
Some songs do deal with depression, suicide,
or anarchy, but not all. “I hate it when people
say that rock music is all about suicide,
depression, rebellion, etc.,” says freshman Alex
Feberes, “because there are songs that are happy
and make you feel good.”
Students who enjoy rap say the music is very
energetic. “It makes you want to dance when
you listen to it,” says 9th grader Elieth Ortero.
Just like rock music, rap and hip-hop music
have had influences on students in a way. “I
admit,” says 9th grader Daniela Diaz, “some
kids take some things too far.”
“I don’t like the music because of the lyrics.
I like it because of the beat and the way it
sounds when I hear it,” says rap fan Melissa
Sanchez.
Some students who enjoy listening to rock
usually only listen to rock, and some despise
rap. “Rap’s always about shooting people,
going to jail, or doing drugs and having sex. It
sends out negative messages,” says 10th grader
Anna Castro.
Rap fans say otherwise. Elieth said, “That’s
not all true. I’ve heard songs where it was about
accomplishing your dreams and facing tough
times.” Another rap fan Georgina Garcia says
“That’s not fair, because they make that music
for people to dance to it and enjoy it.”
Rap fans have their reasons for not liking
rock. “I don’t like the screaming bands do in
their songs,” says rap fan Robert Castillo. “It
hurts my ears sometimes.”
Although this might be true, Anna Castro says,
“Not all songs have that in their songs. That’s
only the death and heavy metal rock.”
Miami Senior High School
features 11
The Miami High Times
83rd Year, No. 2
December 2006
MHS Rappers: The Comrades Making a fashion stateBy Roy Franco
The Comrades are a group of Miami
High students who rap. The Comrades
consist of four seniors: Tito Camargo
also known as Dramasetta; Bobby Ayra
known as The Prophecy; Jose Ramos
known as The Architect; Enrique Ortiz
known as Primacy or Prime Time; and
sophomore Robert Ramos known as
Robb K.
The Comrades released their first mix
tape “Out for that paper” last school
year at Funk-E-Frank’s All-Star Game
which was an intramural basketball
event in the Miami High gym, where
they performed their first hit single
“Throw your C’s up”. Radio stations
94.9 and 103.5 the Beat also attended
the show.
Now they’re planning to release
another mix tape called “Out for that
paper Vol.2.”
Tito Camargo said, “Our first mix
tape was just making jokes and punch
lines, but on this new tape we got more
serious. Our songs have more meaning
to them.” Bobby Ayra said, “This mix
tape contains more emotion and explicit
lyrics in it. It’s also entertaining for the
listeners.”
Tito Camargo also said that they plan
on performing during the school year
at certain events, such as basketball
games or any other events the school
might hold.
The Comrades are also well known
outside Miami High by many DJ’s
and other listeners. Freshmen Kenny
Aleman said, “I heard about them
this year when I was on the Myspace
website. They can sure rip the mic,”
meaning they got a lot of talent on the
microphone.
The Comrades seem to be evolving
into a better group. According to Tito
Camargo, they have promoters such as
DJ’s from radio stations and clubs, they
have the right equipment, and they seem
to be getting closer to their goal, which
is to make it to the top.
Students can find the Comrades on the
popular site Myspace where they can
hear some of the songs on the upcoming
mix tape, such as “Get It Right” which
means they plan on staying in the rap
game and take over and “Hip Hop Is
Dying” which talks about how it is up
to them to restore what real hip hop
music is. Their URL is www.myspace.
com/comradez
By Marisol Vila
ment
It doesn’t take much to adopt one of
three popular fashion styles at Miami High:
preppy, ghetto, and, rocker.
If you go to Hollister and put together
Cali Low Rise Flare jeans ($39.50) with a
Nicholas Canyon polo shirt with the half
length sleeves ($24.50), you will have a
typical preppy
outfit for
the cost of
$64.00.
If you go
to Ecko and
put together
a lay-up tee
($13.99) with
a pair of boot cut jeans ($19.98), you could
pull off a ghetto outfit for just $33.98
The typical rocker outfit will cost $77.00
at Hot Topic if you gather a bottom-up top
($28.00) with corset chain pants ($49.00).
The main reason some students choose
their style is because it looks good. Preps
such as senior Leslie Rodas said, “The style
does not define me. I just like the style, but I
don’t act like everyone else that is preppy.”
Another senior Albert Fernandez said, “I
choose to dress as a prep because it’s decent,
clean cut and looks good.”
“I only
like the look,
not what’s
behind it, like
gangs and the
drugs,” said
sophomore
Michael Rosales who dresses in the ghetto
style.
Students also choose their style according
to the style their friends are using. Sophomore
Herby Padilla said that the ghetto style does
not define him. He dresses ghetto because
everyone he hangs out with uses that style.
Then there are those who choose their
style according to how comfortable it feels.
Sophomore Ninoshka Chang said, “I prefer
rock style and see it more comfortable
than the preppy
clothing, which is
tight.”
In conclusion,
not everyone
that dresses in a
particular style is
defined by it. They
just pick their style to either look good while
being in the most common style, to fit in with
friends or to just find the look with the most
comfort and not really caring which of the
fashion brands are most in style.
12 features
Miami Senior High School
The Miami High Times
83rd Year, No. 2
A t M i a m i H i g h ¿ H a bspeakers
l awon’t E
spaeven try to speak English. Ms.
By Carolina Navarro
MHS has almost 3,500 students. All of
them come from different backgrounds and
from different families, but the student body
is officially 91% Hispanic. Situated in Little
Havana and near Calle Ocho, we are so closely
surrounded by Spanish culture it’s not unusual of
to hear students speaking Spanish to each other,
or the teachers themselves speaking Spanish.
There is no official policy about the language
that has to be used in class. Principal Dr. Tosado
said, “People should use the language their
students understand.” However, he did point out
that the instructions should be said in English
and then explained in Spanish so the students
can understand.
This is good news for those who can’t speak
English, but what about for the teachers? What
if they can’t communicate in Spanish? This
would result in them finding other ways to
communicate with their students. Ms. Lunsford
and Ms. Norris, the family and consumer science
teachers, both cannot speak Spanish.
Ms.
Lunsford pairs up her ESOL students with kids
who can speak both languages so they’ll be
able to explain the instructions to them. Ms.
Norris gives them a copy of the instructions in
Spanish.
Ms. Lunsford and Ms. Norris acknowledged
how hard it is to learn a new language especially
for those who just came to Miami. Ms. Norris
said, “Put yourself in their country and you don’t
speak the language.”
If you are in Cuba and do not know the
common language, that could be a problem. The
same goes for the students in MHS who can’t
speak English. Celia Machado, a junior, is one
of these students. When asked to describe how
she felt, not being able to communicate with
English speaking people, she said she felt alone,
like she doesn’t belong. The only way she is able
to communicate is with a translator.
By Elaine Cordones
Relationships among teens are very common in
the hallways of Miami High. Before they’re 15,
teens, already have a boy friend or girl friend.
There is no secret
about that. But do
they really know
what a relationship
is based on or why
it is important?
Teens are no experts
on the subject. There
is no recipe for a
healthy relationship
because there is no
such thing as one.
People don’t always
have the answers; however what we do have are
ways to make a relationship healthier if we feed
the relationship with the right ingredients.
Christina Mitchell, a sophomore, said,
“The key is good communication.” Joseph
Enriquez, a junior, said, “If the two know each
other well, there is nothing to it.” Orestes Dobao,
a junior, said, “If the two respect each other well
Another student with that same problem
is Andy Ponce, a freshman in ESOL 1 who
came from Cuba. He said he couldn’t relate to
people who speak English. However, he does
understand what they say and knows a few words
in English.
Also, Yaimara Orama, a junior, said she felt
uncomfortable with people who know English.
When asked to explain how she communicates,
she said she hardly speaks with people who
know English.
Junior Vladimir Hernandez, a Cuban,
responding to the question about how he feels
not being able to talk to English speaking
people, said he doesn’t care. The only way he
communicates to people is through hand signs.
Some people resent when non-English
and spend times together, that’s all you need.”
Although relationships can give you butterflies in
your stomach and stars in your head, not everything
is a piece of cake. There are some disadvantages
to having a
relationship with
one person. Marvel
Pace, a junior,
said, “If you have
a girlfriend and
want to hook up
with other girls,
then you can’t.”
Gladys Downs,
a senior, said,
“Relationships
r e q u i r e
responsibilities such as calling and spending time
together to make the relationship grow.”
The benefits might outweigh the costs. David
Martinez, a senior, said, “The advantage is you
spend quality time with the person you care for.”
Alexander Vasquez, a sophomore, said, “You
have someone on your side no matter what.”
Senior Felix Martinez, a baseball player, said,
Lunsford does feel resentful when she is in her
hometown Miami and people who are supposed
to be bilingual don’t speak English and when
employees speak Spanish to her so it is expected
of her to speak Spanish.
Both Ms. Norris and Ms. Lunsford point out
that back in the old days when immigrants were
coming in through Ellis Island in New York, the
immigrants were expected to know English.
Both teachers come from families who had to
learn English: Ms. Lunsford is of French and
German ancestry while Ms. Norris is of Italian
ancestry.
This problem is not just felt by teachers.
Sophomore Dominque Paul doesn’t really mind
Hispanics not being able to talk English, but she
says it’s frustrating when they need a translator
to understand English. She usually uses hand
signals and she can pick up a few words from
the sentences they say. She said, “It should be
two ways. If you know how to speak Spanish,
speak English as well.”
Junior Erica Perry, who isn’t fluent in Spanish,
said it’s hard going to the store and not be able
to communicate with the clerk leaving her to
communicate by pointing. She doesn’t seem
to mind though. She said, “ If you can’t beat
them, join them.”
Gorba Ady, a junior, is another student with
language barriers. Her friends know Spanish so
when they start talking, she feels left out. Not
being able to talk to Spanish speakers makes
her feel bad although she is willing and wants to
learn. For now, all she can do is point, shake her
head, and use the few words she knows.
“Because you get experience and get to know
and comprehend what the person is about.”Yelena
Perez, a senior, said, “You have someone to
December 2006
By Anthony Perez
We’ve all heard it before “Eat breakfast before
school,” but the fact of the matter is that most
students don’t even think about eating in the
morning.
Reasons for avoiding breakfast vary. Clark
Polo, a sophomore, said, “Some people might
be very
picky about
what they
eat in the
morning;
that’s why
they don’t
eat the food
at school or
at home.”
Sophomore Eugene Hernandez says, “I don’t
eat breakfast because I was never made to eat
in the morning.”
Eating in the morning is a good way to start
the day with more energy. Principal Dr. Tosado
says, “Research shows that people that eat
breakfast are more alert during the day.”
Jose Suarez, a sophomore, says that eating
the essential grains, fruits, and dairy products in
the morning can mean the difference between
making the grade or falling asleep in class.
Alex Soto, a sophomore, said, “People that eat
breakfast can function better during the day
because food is the fuel that humans run on.”
Sophomore Yenny Hernandez says, “I always
eat breakfast. I can’t start the day without it; I
like to eat pancakes, bread, juice, and all that
good stuff.”
Of course, you can’t just eat anything for
breakfast; it has to be something of nutritional
value. Science teacher Mr. Upperco explains,
“An even combination of carbohydrates,
proteins, and sugars is an excellent and proven
way to get energy from your breakfast.”
entertain you.”
Miami Senior High School
By Kayleigh Campagna
The Miami High Times
features 13
83rd Year, No. 2
It also deals with governmental
issues and current events, but is
December 2006
to students interested in debate.
lot of scholarship opportunities In
Once you know how to play fact the Policy Debate tournaments
Do you like to argue?
the game, debate becomes
Do you like to express
fun and interesting.Many
yourself? Do like to
students do it for the
play games? Maybe you
adrenaline that comes from
would be interested in
arguing about real world
debate.
issues and the opportunity to
Debate is commonly
express themselves without
compared to a game. It has
repercussions. Junior
players, points, rules and
Cynthia Garcia states, “I
structures. The players
like debate because its a
and structures vary
way to argue without being
depending on the type
punished.” Senior, Jesula
of debate. Miami High’s
Charles said, “Anyone
debate club does Policy
who knows me, knows
and Lincoln-Douglass
I’m outspoken. And debate
Senior Jesula Charles won this year.
Junior Yolanda Richards with a
debate. Regardless of the
allows youths to analyze and
trophy from last year.
type, one thing remains
speak out about situations that are are sometimes held at the University
the same: debate is essentially an argued with evidence and theories. currently going on, situations they of Miami, which is a strong supporter
argument.
wouldn’t know about. Debate is all I of debate.
In Policy debate, for example, there
It sounds complicated, but just like know. Debate is my heart.”
Regardless of debate’s many perks,
are two players on each side of the any other game, it gets easier with
Debate offers shy students a chance it wasn’t always popular at Miami
argument. The arguments deal with practice. Miami High even offers to express themselves and at the same High. The class and club had even
government and current events and debate class with Mrs. Ransom, time learn new things. Mrs. Ransom dissolved for a while, but made a
depend heavily on evidence.
where students learn the ropes of states, “I love watching my students triumphant return with the help of
Lincoln-Douglass debate, on the debate and how to prepare for debate gain confidence and the way debate Mrs. Almon and Mrs. Ransom.
other hand, is done alone, with one tournaments. Mrs. Almon, the opens their eyes to what’s going on
The team has made a lot of progress
person on each side of the argument. debate club advisor, also offers help around them.” Debate also offers a since its return just last year. This
ETW: Extreme teen wrestling!
By Edwin Ramos
who is a former All American and
World Heavyweight champion
There are currently 20 wrestlers
in ETW. “And of course we got
divas,” says Lazaro, referring to
Joanna Ruffin and Anais Vega,
who are the 2 female wrestlers.
“We joined
says Lazaro. “We got champions such
as World Heavyweight Champion,
EXTREME TEEN WRESTLING,
The Wrestling Machine Johnny. The
ETW, is a group of students from Miami
tag team champion team is XBWA,
High who enjoy technical wrestling
which includes Sergio and Z Raptor.
from the television program WWE.
The All American Champion is
The Creator of ETW, sophomore
Death.
At this moment there is a hardcore
champion,
Arachnid,
who has
held the
title since
September
1st of 2006.
Not a lot
of people
understand
w h a t
hardcore is
Black- Hole slam!
all about in
Lazaro Rivera, AKA the Aerial ETW because we like
wrestling.
Specialist, says, “All my friends wrestling and beating
This belt is
have enjoyed wrestling at Bryant up the guys,” says
defended
Park since the last school year, and so sophomore Joanna
everyday
Ace of Spades
I came up with the idea of making a Ruffin who also is a
at every
organization for teens to wrestle.
current referee in ETW.
moment, and weapons of any kind
Every Friday after school
Everyone who has watched can be used too win the title. The
the group walks to the house of World Wrestling Entertainment E-division title is for the light
senior Sergio Abreu where they has seen wrestlers such as The heavyweights such as current
wrestle. “We have tables, ladders, Undertaker, Jeff Hardy, The Rock, champion Laz the Aerial Specialist.
and chairs,” says Sergio. “We do and John Cena win belts during
For more information on
get hurt doing maneuvers from the the time they have been wrestling. joining ETW, visit The Website www.
ladder on to the mats.”
This, too, is a goal for ETW etwxbwa.tk or ask general manager
“I’ve been wrestling for a long members. ”We do have belts in ETW Lazaro Rivera for the dates when the
time,” says Jose Araguez, a junior and they are going to be hard to get,” group wrestles.
year about 35 students are in the
debate class and a growing number
of students, mostly those in the
debate class, participate in debate
club activities.
When people hear “debate club”,
they envision kids of the “pocket
protector” variety. Though debate
requires a lot of intelligence and
dedication, that does not mean
the students involved are of that
“nerdy” stereotype. In fact some of
Miami High’s top performers are fun
and social students, such as Jesula
Charles and Malaki Richardson,
who have both won several awards
for their achievements in the Urban
Debate League.
The club offers so many opportunities
and exciting experiences it’s no
wonder the club has progressed
so much. If you would like to be
involved in debate, you should see
Mrs. Almon in the library or Mrs.
Ransom in port. 2.
14 features
Miami Senior High School
The Miami High Times
By Antony Darce
Copy Editor
A tradition followed since anyone can remember,
Homecoming has instilled school spirit and pride in
the hearts of many at Miami High. A semi-formal
dance, lunch-time activities, dress-up days, a
parade, the return of our alumni, and a football game
make Homecoming week a time of excitement and
anticipation. This year’s Homecoming week was
definitely one to remember.
With preparations beginning this past summer,
the Class of 2008 worked to its fullest potential to
put together Homecoming 2006. According to Miami
High tradition, the junior class presents Homecoming
for the senior class.
Early in the summer, the Junior Board met and
decided on the Homecoming theme of Whippy says:
Lights, Camera, Action! The decision of the theme is
just the beginning to the journey.
Officially kick-starting Homecoming week was the
dance, held on Friday, October 20, 2006, at the Miami
Police Benevolent Association hall from 8:00 p.m.
to 12:00 midnight. The cost of a ticket was $25.00.
Tickets were available for 400 students.
According to junior class president Maria Lui, the
money from the ticket sales pays the dance expenses
such as decorations, food, DJ, security as well as
tiaras for the court princesses. Any remaining profit
will be used by the Class of 2008 for future events
such as Prom and Grad Night.
There are many who enjoyed the dance. “I loved the
Homecoming Dance,” said junior Tatiana Valencia. “It
was a great event, where you got to enjoy time partying
with your friends.” Melissa Cabrera, also a junior, said,
“I had a great time dancing from the time the music
started until I was out the door.”
The Homecoming Dance wasn’t just an event to
step to the beat. For the anxious seniors who were
nominated for the Homecoming court, it was the night
they had been waiting for. Starting at 10:00 p.m., and
every half hour thereafter, a new prince and princess
were announced. This year’s princes and princesses
were Miguel Amaya, Mariajose Alvarado, Freddy
Garcia, Gladys Downs, Robert Tassy, Maria Luna,
83rd Year, No. 2
December 2006
Jorge Rubio, Yanelle Martinez, Oliver Largaespada,
and Maxis Made.
Following the thrill of the dance was a week filled
with dress-up days and activities. Monday, October
23, was Sports of All Sorts and the activity was the
Triathlon. Tuesday, October 24, was Dynamic Duo
and the activity was Gerber Server. Wednesday,
October 25, was What Not to Wear (tacky day)
and the activity was the Mummy Wrap. Thursday,
October 26, was Blue and Gold Day, and the day of
the parade.
The parade is an important happening for clubs
at Miami High. It is an opportunity for them to show
their school spirit as well as promote their club. After
some negative incidents last year with vandalism,
floats were not expected to be strolling down
Stingtown Boulevard this year. However, thanks to
the effort of many, the floats were present without the
complications of previous years.
According to junior class advisor Nelson “Shadow”
Cartaya, the idea of the clubs working on their floats on
a central location on school grounds was a success.
It also prevented clubs’ floats from being vandalized.
Club rivalry was put aside as clubs worked together.
This year’s Homecoming football game was held
October 26 at the Miami Orange Bowl against our
infamous rivals, Coral Gables. Unfortunately, the
Stingarees lost 40-14.
In spite of the loss, the return of our alumni, the halftime show, and the coronation of our Homecoming
king and queen livened up the night. According to
Shadow, over 4,000 people were present at the game,
the most we’ve ever had at a Homecoming game.
After the Million-Dollar Band performed at the halftime show, the anticipated Homecoming coronation
ceremony was to commence. Following a week of
nail-biting, the anxious Homecoming court awaited the
voting results of the senior class. The fortunate ones to
be crowned king and queen were Oliver Largaespada
and Maria Luna.
Activities Director Ms. Quintero stated that
Homecoming 2006 was a success. She was not alone.
“This year’s Homecoming has been like no other,” said
junior class vice president Stephanie Bechara, “not
only for its final result, but for the process it took to
get there. Regardless of other people’s opinion, I truly
believe this was the best Homecoming ever.”
HOMECOMING 2006
Miami Senior High School
The Miami High Times
features
features
83rd Year, No. 2
December 2006
Poetry says it all, and Miami High has a poetry club
By Danelia Barboza
Many students at Miami Senior
High write poems. Poems are
the essence of expression. In
the words of writer Salvatore
Quasimodo, “Poetry is the
revelation of a feeling that the
poet believes to be interior
and personal which the reader
recognizes as his own.”
The benefit of writing poems
is to express without boundaries.
“It’s a way to express myself
freely no limits, just to be straight
out,” says Christine Santiago, a
senior and president of the Miami
High poetry club.
The poetry club is not yet
official, but students still attend
the meetings, finding the club an
opportunity to let themselves go.
The club usually meets every week
on Wednesday or Thursday. There
are only about 12 members in the
club. The sponsor for the club is
language arts teacher Ms. Adams,
who also shares poems during the
meetings.
Christine Santiago says it is a
Could DDR be part of P.E. class?
By Elizabeth Chirino
UP! DOWN! LEFT! RIGHT! Yes,
I am talking about the well-known
video arcade game Dance Dance
Revolution (DDR). The video game
features a dance pad with four
arrows panels indicating were to
step. The way you play this game
is very simple. You first step onto
the dance floor with the four arrows
demonstrating were
to step, then you
choose the speed
level you want and
the song you want
to dance too. Then
when you press
“start”, arrows
indicate where you
step. If you want,
you can make it go
faster or slower.
According to the
website Wikipedia, DDR was first
introduced to the Japanese video
arcades in 1998, after being shown
at the Tokyo Game Show earlier
that year. Many people dedicate
themselves to hours of perfecting
their game. Some people use DDR
as a weigh loss program.
Could DDR be a good way to make
Miami High students more active
in physical education classes? Ms.
Wade, the dance teacher, said, “DDR
could be a good way to help kids
lose weight and get more active. It
would make kids want to do exercise
and get fit.”
Though many students really enjoy
playing DDR, the price on the game
can really be intimidating. One DDR
machine can cost up to $14,000. Is
this too much for a school to invest
in the arcade game? Ms. Rembert, an
assistant principal, said, “It sounds
like a good idea for students to lose
weight, but I really don’t know what
DDR does, so before investing in the
game, I would really like to try it out
and put it to the test. Then if it is worth
buying, maybe we can get in touch
with the DDR company and see what
offer they can make the school.”
Many students would like that.
Cynthia Shogreen, a sophomore, said,
“It could
be fun, and
it gets kids
moving.
Also if you
are a person
who likes
to dance, it
could really
improve
your dancing
skills. And if
a student has
a health condition there are different
levels that you can adjust to make DDR
more difficult or easier.”
James McMillan, a junior, said, “I
think we should have DDR in physical
education classes because kids will
enjoy working out and they will be
looking forward to their P.E class.”
Cristine Lopez, a sophomore, said,
“It’s a great idea because it help kids
physically and mentally because
when kids see that they are losing
weight, they feel more confident about
themselves.”
But not everyone believes DDR
belongs in P.E. classes. Meylin Llorens,
a junior, said, “I don’t think that they
should put DDR in P.E. classes because
students should do more push up’s and
more weight training to really keep
kids in shape.”
club to have freedom to write as
you please. In the club, students
recite their own poems or have
poetry slams. A poetry slam is
much like reciting a poem but
with much more enthusiasm that
gives the speaker voice.
Many students feel that poems
are a great way to drain out
stress. Daniela Barboza, a
freshman in MHS, explained
that the pressure from life has to
go somewhere, and what better
way is there to put it than on a
piece of paper?
“I think poems help cool off
frustrations before you explode,”
says freshman Clement Garcia.
Students who write poems find
that it soothes them and puts them
at ease with themselves.
Students also feel that writing
poems gives them a better view
of dramatic situations. Daniela
Barboza, a freshman, says, “You
never know what’s really wrong
or right until you’re really truly
there.” She refers to putting
yourself in another person’s
shoes. It allows you to imagine
and assume the emotions that are
taking place in an event.
Ms. Montiel leaves Teaching Magnet
Ms. Lourdes Montiel, lead teacher for the teaching magnet, left MHS and transferred
to Ronald Regan Doral High school in early November. According to assistant
principal Mr. Valdes, this was her decision to transfer. Ms. Montiel held many
positions at Miami High. Taking her place as class of ‘09’ advisor will be ESE
department secretary Ms. Alvarez, and taking her place as Future Educators of
America advisor will be social studies teacher Ms. Yanes. According to Mr. Valdes,
they are now in the process of finding a lead teacher for the teaching magnet. (By
Rodneisha Weatherspoon)
15
Drugs at Miami
.........High?
By Gerardo Barrios
The bell rings. School is out.
Students are fluttering out of class.
You hear a voice from a dark corner.
A figure appears and offers you
marijuana. What do you do? Do
you take it, or do you turn the other
way? Are drugs a problem for you at
Miami High?
Many students don’t think there
is a drug problem at Miami High.
Stephanie Castillo, a 10 th grader,
said that Miami High’s environment
seems too calm for drugs. Fellow
10th grader Leila Lemus explained
that compared to other schools, you
hardly hear about drug problems
at Miami High. John Mayer, an
11th grader, said that he doesn’t see
9th grader Cafidia Stuart - A rising star
Assistant principal Ms. Rembert would like to say congratulations to 9th grader
Cafidia Stuart for her singing performance at the opening of the Miami Performing
Arts Center on October 5, 2006, and for being chosen to sing and play the piano on
the Tyra Banks show which has not yet been aired. (By Rodneisha Weatherspoon)
TV teacher Underwood goes to
Galapagos
TV production teacher Mr. Underwood reports that advanced TV students will be
working on education videos about the Galapagos Islands from which he just returned
and where he shot 26 hours of video as part of the Toyota International Teachers
Program. This program, funded by Toyota, sends twenty carefully selected U.S.
teachers to spend ten days in the Galapagos Islands on a study tour. (By Ronald
Perez.)
Yearbook prices rise as time goes by
Yearbook teacher Ms. Baumgarten, along with her staff of students, are multi-tasking.
Underclass pictures arrived and yearbook staff was passing them out from November
8 to November 17. If you have not received yours, no problem. Find your picture
receipt and inform Ms. Baumgarten of this error in room 302. She will be in charge
of contacting Fox-Mar and having them deliver you another set of pictures. Don’t
forget that yearbooks are still on sale for $65. Hurry up and buy one because with
each passing month prices go up till they reach the maximum amount of $80. Students
be prepared on Friday, December 8, for Christmas Personality pictures for anyone
interested. (By Barbara Hernandez)
JROTC earning honors at competition
The Sting Battalion Drill Team competed on October 20, 2006, at the North Miami
Drill Meet. The male Color Guard team placed 3rd, defeating 16 schools in Miami
Dade County. Senior Cadet Lt. Colonel Ronald Pescador earned 1st place in Knock Out
Drill. Cadet Lieutenant Rolando Fuentes placed 4th in Individual Armed Exhibition.
The Sting Battalion also participated in a show hosted by the Miami Seaquarium
to commemorate Veterans Day. The show consisted of Unarmed Exhibition Squad,
Duos Armed Exhibition and an opening Color Guard ceremony. On November 12,
they attended the Miami Lakes parade at Main Street. The (By Eva Fuenmayor)
anybody getting high.
However, this does not mean
Miami High is drug free. In midOctober, principal Dr. Tosado got on
the P.A. system and announced that
two students were caught smoking
marijuana on campus. In addition,
SCSI instructor Mr. Ballard said that
early in the school year two female
students were caught getting high on
the field. Jesus Dearmas, a 9th grade
student, does believe that drugs still
are a problem at Miami High.
TRUST counselor Ms. Avila
believes the drug problem at Miami
High was worse five to six years ago.
She believes drugs are bad because
they have second hand effects, one of
which is depression. She also hopes
that drugs don’t make their way back
to school.
Ms. Avila says that if you are caught
with drugs, you’ll get expelled and
possibly arrested. However, she adds
that any students that are looking for
help with a drug problem can always
see her for help in room 003.
16
sports
Miami Senior High School
The Miami High Times
83rd Year, No. 2
Keeping the tradition with no AC in the gym
By Osmin Herrera
As long as students have attended Miami
High, they’ve known the feeling of it being
90 degrees outside, on a hot Miami day,
and being trapped in the un-air-conditioned
Miami High gym. With a massive renovation
of Miami High slated for 2009-2015, this
could have been part of Miami High history
for future students. However, Miami High’s
renovation does not include air-conditioning
in the gym.
Miami High’s assistant principal Mr.Valdes
said, “Air-conditioning in the gym is not in
the plans as of now.”
Money, however, is not the issue. He said,
“Because of the traditions, we enjoy the hot
conditions.” He thinks that no air in the gym
is a “home court advantage” for Miami High’s
athletic teams.
Some people would agree. Mr. Carreño,
Miami High’s boy’s basketball coach, said
that he doesn’t want air-conditioning in the
gym. “It is part of the tradition. As far as
basketball, it is home court advantage. Other
teams aren’t used to it.” He also believes that
no air in the gym helps keep his athletes in
better shape.
Ms. Yanes, the girl’s volleyball coach, likes
the lack of an air-conditioner in the gym
which she called a sauna. “It’s a home field
advantage. Most teams can’t stand the heat;
it’s a mental thing.” Besides, she claims, “It’s
a good way to lose weight.”
Not all coaches, however, agree that the
hot gym is a good thing. Mr. Urbina, former
coach of Miami High’s wrestling team, said
“Fans leave early because they can’t stand
the environment. Air-conditioning, according
to Mr. Urbina, would actually improve the
performance of his wrestlers even though most
wrestlers don’t mind. No air-conditioning in
the gym is no home-field advantage, he said.
“Some traditions are foolish.”
Many students would agree. Senior Carlos
Gonzales said, “During summer, it gets really
hot in there. It’s not right that people have to be
hot and, on top of that, work out. Sophomore
Kilveet Figueroa said, “It’s disgusting in
there.”
Miami High is not the only school in
Dade-County that lacks air-conditioning in
their gym. As far as Mr. Carreño can recall,
Norland just received air-conditioning in their
previously un-air-conditioned gym, and he
believes that Central also will soon get a new
air-conditioner.
Sting swimmers just keep swimming
By Jennifer Acosta
“Just keep swimming, just keep swimming,”
is a popular little song from the kid’s movie
Finding Nemo. The little blue fish Dory sings
it to encourage herself to keep on going and not
to stop. She is like the Miami High swim team
which just keeps going.
For the swim team, the season is over, and
they didn’t do so bad. The boy’s record was
3-3 and the girl’s record was 4-2. By less than
a second, the girl’s team did not qualify for
the regional swim meet. “It’s OK,” says junior
Kelcey O’Hare, captain of the girl’s team. “I’m
very proud of the team. They tried hard.”
The girl’s 400 relay team came in eighth place.
The relay team is made up of four girls: senior
Jessica Hernandez; juniors Kelcey O’Hare and
Ingrid Lopez, and sophomore Renee Zuniga.
Miami High’s swim team is small. The boys
only have seven members while the girls have
six. Lazaro Armenteros, the captain of the boy’s
swim team, says, “We’re the smallest team, but
we have the biggest heart.”
Lazaro has been on the M.H.S swim team
for four years now. He is the only one from the
team that made it to regionals, the tournament
after district.
Lazaro is also the captain for water polo whose
season will begin shortly. He hopes to earn a
scholarship for water polo and to also break
the record for goals. In his freshman year, he
scored 4 goals; sophomore year, he scored 92
goals; and his junior year, he scored 106 goals.
He was second team All Dade last year and third
team All Dade his sophomore year.
Overall, the swim team did well and tried their
best. They practiced everyday at Hadley Pool in
the Allapatah area. Kelcey O’Hare said the team
did timed swimming drills and some weight
training, but most importantly they worked as
a team. Lazaro says that Coach Tornillo pushed
them to do better and over their limits.
Asked why they joined the Miami High swim
team, many swimmers such as sophomore
Richard Lunsford and junior Ingrid Lopez,
who’s also the co-captain of the girl’s swim
team, replied that it is conditioning for the
upcoming water polo season. Others such as
Kelcey O’Hare, say she likes the water and it’s
a fun sport. Lazaro Armenteros also loves the
water and said that he always wanted to swim.
The swim team worked very hard and gave
it their all. So, let’s congratulate them and
encourage them to, “Just keep swimming, just
keep swimming…..”
broadcast the game over the radio as their game
of the week. In a hard fought game with neither
team quitting till the bitter end, the Stings lost 3414. Though the team lost, the fans showed their
undying love and support by staying till the end,
cheering and clapping for the team as they went
into the stadium tunnels to the locker rooms.
October 19, 2006, proved to be a big day as
the Stingarees went to the Orange Bowl to play
against the Columbus Explorers. Many fans
seemed excited to be at the Orange Bowl, but not
too excited about the game as the Stings lost to the
Explorers by the huge margin of 41-6. The only
exciting moment came when the Stingarees scored
their only touchdown during the last second of the
game which the team’s loyal fans celebrated.
On October 13, 2006, the team went to Memorial
Field to play the district rival Golden Hawks of
Miami Springs. The Stings won 36-26, a very
important win to improve the team’s district
record to 2-1.
On October 6, 2006, the Stings traveled to
Harris Field to play a very formidable South
Dade team. Although the team gave forth great
effort, they lost 35-7.
There may not have been too many positives
in the season, but Coach Ponce took the time
to mention standout players for the season
such as senior utility player Michael Cuan for
leading the team in touchdowns throughout the
season. Sophomore offensive and defensive
lineman Ramsis Principe was mentioned for
being a standout player for both offensive
and defensive line. Junior defensive player
Antwoin Bell played great defense and special
teams through out the season.
A depressing finish for football
by Joseph Castillo
The MHS football season finally came to a
close on November 3, 2006, with a disappointing
13-8 loss to Hialeah High School. Fans can
now take a deep breath and put to past what can
best be described as a disappointing season for
football at Miami High.
The team’s overall season record was 3-7.
Head coach Mr. Frank Ponce said, “The season
was a disappointment. We got beat by great
margins, had a lack of plays, and needed better
coaching.”
On October 26, 2006, a date that was surely
highlighted in many calendars for Miami High
students, football players, and alumni, the
Stingarees played their hated rivals, the Coral
Gables Cavaliers at the Orange Bowl. A huge
number of fans for both teams showed up for this
important district game. Radio station Power 96
December 2006
Golf
“Golf is the most played sport in the United States,” said
Mr. Upperco, the golf coach. He congratulates junior golfer
Jorge Arubla for finishing Top 3 in Individuals in District on
October 10th. The boys golf team, Mr. Upperco said, played
a great season, ending with a record of 5 wins, 6 losses.
“The girls had another unbelievable and outstanding
season,” Mr. Upperco said. Their final record was 2 wins, 2
losses. They were district runner-up and went to regionals.
Mr. Upperco congratulates freshman Isabel Sanchez and
sophomore Bernadette Gutierrez for finishing 2nd in the
District on October 9. For those who are interested, girls
and boys golf tryouts will begin in January. (By Cyndi
Balladares)
Scholarship for Socorro
Senior baseball player Kenny Socorro, Triple Crown
winner with a .488 batting average, 30 RBI’s, 5 HR’s last
season, received an athletic scholarship on November 8th
from Marshall University in Huntington, West Virginia.
Kenny said, “I feel like I have accomplished something
meaningful.” However he added, “I feel a little nervous
about going to Marshall because I won’t get to see my
friends and family, but I get to leave Miami and it will be
a whole different experience.” (by Medardo Cruz)
Bowling
The bowling season ended November 7, 2006. The boy’s
record was seven wins and four losses. The girl’s record
was six wins and five losses. According to Coach Rudy
Rodriguez, the best players were Jose Martinez for the boys
and Tracy Quiroz for the girls. Mr. R. Rodriguez believes
that the season could’ve been better. However, a large
number of players were unavailable for games because they
could not leave school early to attend games so as not to get
a lower grade in their classes. (by Gerardo Barrios)
Soccer
Miami High’s girl soccer team has started the season
with a record of 2 wins, 2 losses, and 1 tie. Ms. Contreras,
coach for the girl’s soccer team, said, “Were hoping that we
have a good season. We have a lot of 9th and 10th graders on
the team this year. We hope to improve as we go along.”
Ms. Contreras would also like to acknowledge Maria Jose
Alvarado and Karina Valencia, their two captains. She
would also like to acknowledge Stephanie Kocijancic, their
new goalie. Upcoming games include Monday December
4, 2006, against Miami Northwestern, Friday December 8,
2006, against Miami Central, and Monday 11, 2006, against
Miami Springs. (by Medardo Cruz)
Cross-Country
Coach Ferralls reported that the girls cross-country team
season is over. They did very well, he said, but there can
still be much improvement. His top runners for this year
were Chantal Darde, with an average time of 27:15 for
the 3.6-mile race, Jessica Orozco with an average time of
30:00, and Wilkina Rodriguez whose average time was
27:30. For students who want to try out, he wants them
to know that the season starts the beginning of the school
year and it ends October 24.
Coach White, of the boy’s cross-country team, wanted
to report that his runners need a lot of improvement and
they need to show up for practice all the time. However,
he wanted to recognize his top runners, Juan Carlos Perez
and Albert Monnor. (By Elizabeth Chirino)
Baseball
Official practice for the baseball team will begin sometime
around January 16. What are the requirements to be on
the team? According to Coach Suarez, his players have
to be able to “raise the bar”. He explains, “All players are
expected to be disciplined and hardworking. They must
be good role models to the rest of the student body as well
as the community, both academically and on the field.”
The first preseason game is expected to be on February
6, when the Stings will face off against Coral Park. (by
Giselle Avila)