Apr - Coral Reef High School

BAITLINE
Coral Reef Sr. High School
Get Ho ked
Hell month begins! p.7
April 2009 Volume 12 Issue 9
Does music affect
fashion trends? p. 4
10101 SW 152 Street Miami, FL 33157
April is National Poetry Month!
See pages 7 and 8 for
“7 essential rules to becoming
a successful poet” and “15
great poets that aren’t dead
British guys.”
2
News
Coral Reef Sr. High
April 2009
Taxes: do you know exactly what you’re paying?
LUKAS MOON
Staff Writer
Many students don’t
know what April 15th is. It
is the day that people must
turn in any taxes they have
due.
It is a sore sight for many
to see all that money go
away, yet it has long been
considered a very crucial
civic duty.
By April 15th, each
individual
or
married
couple that makes enough
money (about $8,000 for
an individual, or $12,000
for a married couple) must
file a tax return form that
will account for all income
that they make that they
haven’t already paid taxes
on and must pay a certain
percentage of this income.
While income taxes are
viewed today as an accepted
aspect of society, they were
highly controversial in the
late 18th century. However
in 1895 the Supreme Court
declared federal income tax
unconstitutional.
The income tax was
however reinstated with the
16th amendment in 1913.
Income tax has been
accepted as a necessary
part of government, and
has been applied to all
democracies in the world.
Perhaps the most
controversial aspect of the
tax system in the U.S. is the
progressive tax system.
That is, the system
that divides income into
brackets and increases the
percentage owed on taxes as
income increases. Someone
who makes $9,000 a year
owes 10% of that.
However someone who
makes $40,000 a year
Photo by Lukas Moon
Ervin Sinay, Business senior contemplates the
implications of tax day.
will owe 10% of the first
$32,550 and 15% on
the remaining $7,450. If
someone makes more than
$35,700 then they must pay
35% of all the money they
make past $35,700.
This often distributes the
tax burden on richer people,
which is a constant debate
because some argue poor
people cannot afford to pay
large amounts in taxes yet
others say it is unfair that
richer people have to pay
much higher percentages
on their taxes.
This year will also include
a tax on AIG Bonuses that
were paid for by bailout
money. The government
will tax 90% of these
bonuses because president
Obama and the majority
of Congress are up in arms
about these large bonuses.
“Taxes are a
necessary evil,” said Mr.
Hudson, the orchestra
teacher.
Several students will be
paying taxes for the first
time this year.
“Taxes suck, it’s two
weeks of my pay I’m not
getting. I know that they’re
necessary but I don’t know
why kids my age have to
pay it,” said Elizabeth Gray,
a VPA senior.
It is also on tax day that
people count on tax breaks
and returns. Many people
use taxes like a savings.
Some people look
forward to tax day because
it means a lot of money
in tax returns, especially
for people who pay their
income tax weekly.
“I’m going to get a large
part of my money back. I’m
going to use it to fix the AC
in my car,” said Gray.
Graphic by Megan Miranda
Opening the books for the first time?
Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. Here are some tips for taking the AP exam:
MEGAN MIRANDA
Staff Writer
Advanced Placement
classes are one of the most
significant luxuries Coral
Reef High School has to
offer its students. Through
the college-level AP classes,
students are allowed to
learn subjects taught at
nearly every university in
the country while still in
high school.
There are some students
that do not believe the AP
classes are worth the work.
The extra course work,
difficult home work, and
excruciating tests are some
of the reasons students
refuse the offer of advanced
placement courses. These
students might have gained
a freer schedule, but lose
the benefits the AP classes
have to offer.
AP students get a head
start on college-level work
and are better prepared
when they leave for their
particular
universities.
Taking the classes and the
exams shows the colleges
searching for students that
a student is ready to take on
the classes at college and
to take the most rigorous
courses available.
The students that take AP
classes have the opportunity
to earn credits or advanced
standing at most of the
colleges and universities in
the United States. However
the only way to gain these
credits and standings is to
take the course, pass the
class, and excel on the exam
at the end of the year.
The
end-of-the-year
exams are quite daunting
for most students who
have never taken collegeleveled courses. Scored
one through five, a passing
score involves receiving a
three or above and many
universities will accept the
credit for an AP class if you
pass the exam.
And contrary to popular
belief, it is not that difficult
to pass the AP exams as
long as you know what to
do.
Most AP teachers suggest
methods to help students
do well on the exams.
Each student has their own
preferred way to prepare,
but following an AP
teacher’s advice can’t do
much harm.
“Get a good night’s
sleep, eat a good breakfast,
and relax. [During the test]
pay close attention to the
clock,” said AP English
teacher, Eleanor Dorta.
There are many
opportunities at the school
that students can take
advantage of to help them
do well on the exams.
“You can’t wait for
the last minute to prep
and study for the exams.
Take advantage of the
AP/IB review session on
Saturdays,” said AP Biology
teacher, Laura Vogl.
Paying attention in class
to the tricks and suggestions
of the Coral Reef AP
teachers is also beneficial.
The teachers are always
there to assist their students
in passing the exams for
their respective subjects.
“[To pass the AP lit
exam] practice reading,
practice reading, practice
reading. Expose yourself
to poetry and be prepared
and willing to take a test
and concentrate for three
hours. Anyone can do it,”
said AP English Literature
instructor, Denise Arnold
to her students.
The AP exams are not
an evil way for the country
to torture its high school
students but rather valuable
opportunities.
They give students the
chance to show universities
that they are ready and
willing to do the work.
News
Coral Reef Sr. High
April 2009
3
Blackle: saving our energy one search at a time
RICARDO MARTINEZ
Staff Writer
“Forget Google, be energy frugal!” said Senior Class
President Luisa Santos.
Although she said this half jokingly, Luisa has a point.
Blackle.com, one of the simplest well- thought of ways
of conserving energy, was introduced in January 2007
when a blog post titled “Black Google would save 750
Megawatt-hours a year.” We can see that a little effort goes
a long way.
Blackle was created by Heap Media, an organization
dedicated to developing and growing leading online
services with global research.
Heap Media was founded in Sydney, Australia in 2005.
Blackle is powered by Google, which means you get the
same results as you would in Google except in Blackle the
background screen is Black.
The underlying theory is that it takes less energy to
power a black screen than it does to power a white screen.
Therefore every single time a computer around the world
conducts a search through Google it will take up more
energy that could be diminished if we just used Blackle.
The creators of Blackle feel that even though not
everyone will use Blackle there will still be some energy
savings and a little goes a long way.
Everytime you load up your search bar (Blackle) it
will not only save energy but also remind you that you’re
helping the cause and conserving energy, maybe it will
even help you think of other ways to save energy with
everyday things.
“[It is a] good idea, seeing though as everyone uses
Google it would be a big impact because its something
that is available to everyone,” said Jesselyn Isturis Senior
in the Medical Academy.
Blackle is not only available for everyone, it also
provides websites with information and ideas on simple
and easy ways to conserve energy for almost anything
ranging from your Bathroom to your Car.
“This is great and Google should advertise this more.
Not only are they the best search engine but now they can
also be the most environmentally friendly,” said Business
Senior Kathryn Hemsing.
Even though using Google is easier and more convenient
because of its history, taking the extra half second to use
Blackle will give you the results plus the satisfaction of
conserving energy.
“It takes a little bit more effort to remember to use
Blackle, but it goes a long way in saving energy,” said IB
senior Marleen Hernandez.
Earth Day is celebrated in April to promote environmentalism
VANESSA RUEDA
Staff Writer
Earth day is celebrated
internationally,
each
date
depending on the country
celebrating. However, in the
United States, Earth Day is
celebrated on April 22nd and has
been ever since 1970.
It was the creation of Senator
Gaylord Nelson of Wisconsin
who decided that an official
date needed to be set in order to
conserve the environment.
In honor of Earth day, it is
typical for people to plant trees,
recycle, and clean up litter.
In previous years, Coral
Reef’s own Ecology Club has
held a celebration in the main
courtyard complete with several
booths centered on recycling,
environmentally
friendly
products, and other items that
contribute to a greener earth.
Also, petitions were available
to students for the Law of the
Seas, the stopping of building
coal power plants, protecting the
beaches, and protection of the
giant Socoya trees.
This year, students participated
in several events around Miami
to celebrate.
On Sunday, April 19, students,
along with their friends and
family, attended Earthfest at
Crandon Park participating in
nature walks, EcoAdventure
tram tours, nature workshops,
outdoor concerts and much
more.
A popular event known as
Miami Goin’ Green will take
place in Bayfront Park on
Saturday, April 25th from 10 am7pm. There, students can enjoy
live performances, hands on
activities, as well as learn about
how to make the Earth greener in
subjects such as energy, travel,
conservation, transportation, and
more. Students are also welcome
to volunteer there for community
service hours and may sign up
on www.miamigoingreen.com/
volunteer.php.
While Earth day is on April
22, on March 28th, city of
Miami Mayor Manuel A. Diaz
encouraged everyone to turn off
all non-necessary lights at 8:30
pm for an hour.
This event is known as Earth
Hour. Earth Hour was yet another
of the many plots in order to
conserve the environment and
make progress towards a greener
earth.
“I participate in Baynanza,
which occurs close to Earth day,
as well as in Earth Hour which is
on March 28 from 8:30-9:30 pm.
I purchase many organic products
and use my own shopping bags,”
said Ecology club sponsor and
AP Environmental teacher, Ms.
Scordilis in reference to what
she does in honor of Earth Day.
Earth Day is a day dedicated to
conservation of the environment.
While it may be celebrated on
different days, its purpose is the
same internationally.
There is only one earth and
taking the time out to protect it
for one day out of the year is an
earth saving event that everyone
can participate in.
Photo by Vanessa Rueda
Ecology Club spreads environmental awareness by showing what
products are environmentally friendly. Photo courtesy of Ms. Scordilis
4
News
Coral Reef Sr. High
April 2009
Grad Bash 2009 to take place on May first with
live performance by Akon and several DJ’s
VANESSA RUEDA
Staff Writer
After four years of hard work,
meeting attendance requirements,
and keeping up with obligations,
seniors are finally being rewarded
with Grad Bash! Grad Bash is
held at Islands of Adventure and
Universal Studios in Orlando,
Florida in comparison to Grad
Night, which is held in Hollywood
Studios.
Coral Reef’s student population
has preferred attending Grad Bash
for the past few years because
the parks are more appealing and
administrators have preferred it
due to the time convenience.
Tickets for the trip were sold
from March 9 through March 13
at a cost of $120, which covers the
bus and theme park price.
Over 400 seniors paid for
the trip out of the 752 that are
in the school. Sign up for buses
was originally held on March 17
during lunch but was changed
In previous years, Coral Reef
attended the pre-party held at the
parks but stopped going because
students did not enjoy it. This
year, students will enjoy a live
performance from multi platinum
recording artist, Akon, as well
Grad Bash is held at Islands of Adventure
and Universal Studios in Orlando
to March 26 due to rowdiness
amongst the seniors.
The names for the 9 buses were
based on the rides at Universal
Studios and Islands of Adventure
and consisted of Shrek, Dueling
Dragons, Jurassic Park, E.T,
Simpsons, Hulk, Spiderman, The
Mummy, and Men in Black.
as live DJ’s, street performers,
karaoke, and more.
Mixed emotions have risen
amongst the seniors due to the
problem that occurred with the
buses.
“At this point, I’m nervous and
excited. We’re uncertain about
what’s gonna happen. It’s one of
those things where you have to sit
back. Relax,” said Business senior
Joel Perez.
The dress code for Grad Bash
allows for casual attire that is
appropriate and cannot include:
backpacks, clothing that is torn or
has holes, tight clothing, spaghetti
straps, as well as clothes that
represent the school in any way.
The plan for May first is for the
seniors to arrive at 11 am, arrive
at the park at 6 pm, and be back
at around 2 am.
While there may have been
controversy about Grad Bash
versus Grad Night in the
beginning, it is sure to be a night
that seniors will commit to their
memory as they continue on to
college.
From http://www.universalorlando.com/
gradbash/
Is there a correlation between music and fashion tastes?
ALEX MELENDEZ
Staff Writer
Most people would agree
that their choice in music
taste affects how they dress
and even how they talk.
Even more so, the choice
a person makes in their
musical taste has a great
impact on the choices
they make regarding the
lifestyles they choose
to pursue as well as the
clothing they choose to
wear.
A person who regularly
listens to hip hop and R&B
might be more inclined to
wear baggy clothes and
tend to lead a more urban
lifestyle.
Another stereotypical
correlation is between the
kids who wear Abercrombie
and Fitch and listening to
pop songs.
Yet as recent music
trends changed, it is evident
that the correlation between
the music and teenagers has
changed along with it.
“I think fashion trends
have changed a lot. Vintage
and Retro are totally back,
whereas before the in thing
was what the popular genre
of music was. Now, it’s
all about putting personal
spins into your outfits,”
said Legal senior Tani
Calderon.
Teenagers have put their
own twist on their fashion
styles and have become
more likely to enjoy a
greater array of music.
“I love all different types
of music; everything from
country to R&B. But my
style, is all my own,” said
Business senior Anthony
Deleo.
When looking around any
high school, it is noticeable
that likely one person
stands out by wearing
skinny jeans.
Easter origins
MEGAN MIRANDA
Staff Writer
Easter is one of the most important
religious feasts in the Christian liturgical
year. Christians believe that Jesus was
resurrected from the dead three days
after his crucifixion, and celebrate this
resurrection on Easter Sunday, two days
after Good Friday.
Easter refers to the season of the church
year called Eastertide or the Easter Season.
The week before Easter, known as Holy
Week, is very special in the Christian
tradition.
The Sunday before Easter is Palm
Sunday and the last three days before Easter
are Holy Thursday, Good Friday and Holy
Saturday, sometimes referred to as Silent
Saturday. Palm Sunday, Holy Thursday and
Good Friday respectively commemorate
Jesus’ entry in Jerusalem, the Last Supper
and the Crucifixion. Holy Thursday, Good
Friday, and Holy Saturday are sometimes
referred to as the Easter Triduum, Latin for
Photo by Alex Melendez
Tonya Flores shows off her wacky style which reflects her
taste in music.
“We look at what’s
‘in thing’ in California
and we just adapt it for
everyone,” said Medical
senior Alexander Aviarano,
an assistant manager at
Pacsun.
Since time’s have
changed, and music does
not necessarily result in
what a person wears, it
makes it that much harder
for the designers and the
stores to influence teens and
keep up with the constant
flux of incoming trends.
Another deciding factor
in the reason why music no
longer has a great impact
on a person’s lifestyle
is the fact that music is
emerging.
“My friends and I love
listening to music mixed by
all sorts of DJ’s. My favorite
type of music is House
because it incorporates a
lot of different genres,”
said Legal senior Tatiana
services in a congregation,
but they also incorporate
more
highly
festive
elements.
The music of the service,
in particular, often displays
a highly festive tone; the
incorporation of brass
instruments to supplement
a congregation’s usual
instrumentation
is
common.
“I’m a Christian so we
pretty much go to church
and we remember when
Jesus Christ came to earth
and when he died on the
cross for our sins. We have
a dinner with some friends
we get together, we eat
chocolate, that’s about it,”
said IB senior Damaris
Scalia.
Microsoft Clipart
Families come together
and hold feasts to celebrate
“Three Days.”
Celebrations on Easter Sunday are the day, usually after church service.
common in most churches. Typically, these Sometimes games are played for the
services follow the usual order of Sunday children, including the Easter Tradition of
Canela.
One of the most newest
and upcoming forms of
music is the infamous
“House music,” which
originates from the deep
underground clubs of
Europe.
This form of music
combines beats, vocals,
various instruments, and
other influences of various
genres such as rock, R&B,
and even pop.
Music will inevitably
always play a role in its
listener’s lifestyles.
However, as the music,
fashion, and the people
themselves evolve, music’s
impact will decrease.
But until that day, teens
will continue to enjoy the
beats, sounds, and rhythms
of the songs and artists that
affect their lives each and
every day.
egg hunting.
“On Easter, [my family] goes to my
aunt’s house and we have a big dinner;
we typically eat ham, rice, corn, and stuff.
After that we usually hide eggs in the grass
so the kids can play and find the eggs and
inside there are chocolates,” said Legal
senior, Jenny Jean-Francois.
The history of eggs on Easter began
because the use of eggs was forbidden
during Lent, so they were brought to the
table on Easter Day and colored red to
symbolize the Easter joy.
The custom may have its origin in
paganism, because the egg is the emblem
of the new life of early spring. Easter eggs,
the children are told, are laid by the Easter
Bunny, for which reason they are hidden
in a nest, in the garden, or in a basket. The
rabbit is a pagan symbol and has always
been an emblem of fertility.
No matter how it is celebrated, Easter
remains one of the most widely celebrated
Christian holidays.
It is a day that reminds people of the
story of Jesus and how he died for our sins
only to rise to the Kingdom of Heaven three
days later. It is a day for remembrance.
Opinions
Gossip Girls: TV show
or high school drama?
MEGAN ZUCKER
Staff Writer
We’ve all done it before,
and there’s no denying it.
Whether intentionally or
not, there’s been a time
in all of our lives where
we have said something
hurtful or untrue
about
someone
else behind their
backs.
It’s known
as gossip and it
spreads like wildfire,
especially among girls
in high school. And
sometimes, it can get
nasty.
Rumors and lies are
spread that are meant
to ruin someone’s
Graphic by Megan Zucker
reputation,
and
although none of us IB sophomores Sheiling Chia and Kassandra Mayor spread a
think so, we are the juicy bit of gossip.
ones to blame.
“It’s crazy how
Martinez.
fast gossip spreads
It may seem like it’s impossible to stay
around school! Everyone just loves to
spread it and know about it, but no one out of the way of gossip, but it’s important
realizes how hurtful it can be to someone,” to try your best to not spread it, and to not
be the subject of it either. To do this, you
said IB sophomore Amanda Quintana.
Not to be stereotypical, but it’s a well should never tell someone something that
known fact that girls are the ones most you don’t want to be known, especially if
obsessed with knowing gossip and you can’t trust this person.
It’s okay to tell friends, but make sure
spreading it.
It seems like we have some sort of they’re true friends that you know won’t
fascination with talking about other people, go behind your back. Also, even though it’s
even friends, and spreading gossip about tempting to get in the middle of all of the
them, that may potentially destroy their drama that comes with gossiping, just stay
out of it.
reputation.
No good will ever come out of it and
And once it starts, it doesn’t stop. Gossip
reaches individuals so quickly, especially you don’t want to be known around school
in high school. In one instant, three people as the person who knows everything about
knowing your deepest, darkest secret everyone.
Anyone who has been a victim of gossip
can turn into the whole student body.
Especially with all of the technology like knows how hurtful it can be. As we enter
text messaging and Facebook, it can really high school, we are becoming young adults
and spreading gossip is a very childish
get out of hand.
“Girls just love to be the spreaders of thing to do.
It may seem harmless, but in the long
gossip. They are infatuated with knowing
everything about everyone’s lives and it run, it is a vicious cycle that will always
can get really annoying. Nobody likes a come back to haunt you. A simple solution
gossiper!” said VPA sophomore Jonathan is to not start it or spread it.
Coral Reef Sr. High
April 2009
5
Facebook vs. Myspace
CHIEDOZIE OKAFOR
Staff Writer
In today’s society, teenagers are
spending more time conversing
with friends through the web than
in real life. Around this time last
year, Myspace was the only social
networking
website
attracting
teenagers, and young adult’s time.
Myspace has been the primary
way to stay in touch with old friends,
but it seems Facebook has stolen
the younger crowd’s attention. The
network is made up of hundreds
of separate networks based around
schools, businesses and regions.
Although registration is now open
to the public, the site still caters to
a college and high
school demographic
focusing
on
networking through
groups and social
activism.
Profiles allow users
to post pictures, comments, bogs
and apps. Additionally, it has some
of the best privacy options on the
Internet. We felt that Facebook really
encouraged using the site to foster
relationships with people you already
know, or friends of friends. Within
hours, we were already in touch with
scores of old friends, relatives and
acquaintances.
The only real issue that concerns
Facebook’s
user’s
lack
of
customization options. However,
most users like the design and uniform
feel of the site. Choosing between
MySpace and Facebook is really a
matter of interface preference and
where your friends are. But, if you’re
new to the whole social networking
thing, Facebook is the place to be.
“I like Facebook better because it’s
easier to tag my friends in pictures,”
said Tiffany Schultz, VPA Senior.
Tiffany is one student that had a
chance to voice her opinion about
their preference between the two sites.
She expressed that unlike Myspace,
Facebook uses real names and not
“silly” display names like Myspace
does. It is a lot easier searching
people using their birth name other
than using a nickname.
Myspace hasn’t lost all of its
support. A class of seniors expressed
the reason they prefer Myspace over
Facebook any day, claiming that
Facebook is way too difficult. Others
expressed that they felt the site is too
impersonal.
“Facebook tells all of your business,
it sucks!” said Legal Senior Joseph
Jefferson.
A recent study conducted by
bloggers on Kansascity.com, claims
that both Myspace
and
Facebook
cannot
coexist
with each other.
Blogger
Jacob
Ruffman stated
that by looking
at the two sites, he could go to
Facebook’s homepage and sees pure
cleanliness and easy navigation,
whereas Myspace is packed with
advertisements and confusing colors.
“It’s plain obnoxious,” said Kevin
Coleman VPA Senior.
Blogger (Jenna Harvey) justified
Coleman’s case by stating that
Facebook is a site more suited for
young adults trying to keep in touch
with their old friends, whereas high
school kids may enjoy Myspace more
because of its funkier layout.
“Myspace is a lot better. It’s been
around a lot longer than Facebook
it’s a lot easier for me to use,” said
Charles Cannon, IB Senior.
The question is what does the kids at
Coral Reef feel? Could we be edging
towards dark times leading to the
end of Myspace? Or is it possible to
have two highly popular networking
sites? Whatever the case may be, one
thing is for sure, Facebook is still on
the rise, and Myspace seems to be
holding tight to its place on every
computer screen.
When you got to go, you got to go!
JILLIAN ROBERTS
Staff Writer
Many times I find
myself sitting in class,
and suddenly, I have the
urge to use the restroom.
With 45 minutes left in the
period, I don’t think I can
make it to the end of class.
The seconds are ticking,
my bladder is filling, but I
already used up all three of
the only bathroom passes I
am allowed for the grading
period. What am I going to
do?
Many teachers limit, and
even forbid, students to go
to the bathroom during their
classes. Students are told to
use the restroom before and
after class. Teachers will
not let their students out of
class, or they will only give
out two or three passes per
grading period. This sparks
the question of whether or
not teachers should allow
their students to go the
bathroom whenever they
need.
From experience, it is not
a pleasant feeling having
a full bladder feeling the
need to explode. As an
athlete, I drink a lot of water
throughout the day, and all
of that liquid needs to be let
out sooner or later.
“Sometimes you can’t
help it, and you just have to
go. It’s not right for teachers
to tell you that you can’t go
to the bathroom. Especially
for girls,” said Agriscience
sophomore Kelly Ziegler.
Some teachers do allow
their students to leave
the class. For example,
chemistry teacher Ms.
Barkow leaves a pass in
the front of the room for
students to take whenever
necessary. Her students
don’t even have to ask for
permission. They just take
the pass and go.
“I have a hard time
limiting bathroom passes
because I feel that if you
have to go, you have to go.
I’m flexible because I know
that if my students need
to use the restroom, they
cannot concentrate on my
lesson. I trust my students,
so I allow them to leave the
class whenever they need
to,” said Barkow.
Other teachers, such as
Ms. Gessen, limit students
to three bathroom passes
per grading period.
“I think it is important
to have rules for the
classroom,” said Mrs.
Gessen. “If I don’t have
rules, students will abuse
their privileges. Also, I
limit the amount of passes
given out to avoid students
in the hallways.”
I can see why the teachers
like Ms. Gessen limit the
amount of times their
students are allowed to
leave the classroom.
It is not okay for students
to abuse bathroom passes
to roam the halls. It is not
okay for students to miss
the same class everyday,
falling behind because
they are not there for the
lesson.
But, I still think all
teachers should allow
their students to go to the
bathroom whenever they
feel the urge to go.
Teachers need to have
more trust in their students.
They can’t help when they
need to go to the bathroom,
and do not get anything out
of missing class. As long as
students don’t abuse their
privileges and hurry back
to class, there is no need for
teachers to forbid students
from using the restroom.
It is a fact of life. If you
have to go, you have to go,
and there’s nothing you can
do about it.
6
Editorial
Coral Reef Sr. High
April 2009
Pillars upon which our society stands:
the paradox of American values
It seems that our society lives in perpetual controversy and confusion when it aspires
to a dream or ideal that we should live by. We often come back to wondering
what it is that our people should value and what do people realistically value.
Sometimes, it seems that time and time again that people strive for success. Yet
it is difficult to define success and equally hard to measure it.
When evaluating success, material wealth is the unofficially accepted
standard. The American dream itself is based on the concept of rising from
humble origins to wealth and influence. From a young age we are taught to
do well in school, so we can go to a good college, so that we can get a good
job, so we can make lots of money, so we can buy lots of stuff and surely with
all that stuff we’ll be happy. Yet that’s were our goals become confused. Is
the purpose of life to accomplish something? Is it to be successful? Is it to
simply be happy?
These three things all point to a single value that is dominant in our
world: self preservation. Looking out for yourself is so engrained in our
minds that it is practically taught as common sense. We are told to live our
everyday lives for the sake of being successful and buying what we want to
be happy. As if that is an end in itself.
It is true that we view selflessness, volunteering and
community service in very high esteem. People, like mother Teresa
orJimmy Carter, who have lived to serve others have gone down in
history as heroes. There is a large degree of reverence for selflessness,
yet few aspire to live a selfless life. Too often, individuals say they aren’t
capable of living selflessly in their condition, or that they simply aren’t
that kind of person. These excuses point back to just how much our society
values self preservation.
Ads make us believe that we need to buy more things and we need to by them
now. The ads basically tell people that their life sucks because they lack a specific
product. Yet it doesn’t matter how much someone buys, the ads will keep coming and
continually tell them they need more. Is that the happiness that is so preciously sought after?
To be wearily seeking the next product and never find satisfaction is not what I would define
happiness.
Then I wonder where all this greed has gotten us. I think of the bottomless greed of
the corporate CEOs that brought this financial crisis on us and then just cashed out. Some
of the worst things in this world have been done for the sake of wealth and stuff. It has been
done by the valuing of material things over people. It rings true in my eyes that the Love of
money is the root of all evil.
What are the costs of success according to society’s standards? Is it really worth it to live
for yourself? Wealth and material success are by no means a bad thing but at what cost will they
be pursued? Too many rich men live alone in great mansions. Too many families are destroyed
by money problems and by workaholic fathers or mothers. Too many people lose their friends
and relations because of selfish attitude or the introvert side-effect of living to hoard wealth. My
question to these people is was it worth the money?
It can be firmly said that only when we live for something greater than ourselves does life
have worth and purpose. When we are taught that self preservation is the greatest goal that we
should aspire to, perhaps we have been taught a lie that has long plagued humanity. It is as Albert
Einstein once said, “A person starts to live when he can live outside himself.”
BAITLINE
2008-2009 Staff
Editor-in-Chief
Steven Li
Sports Editor
Vanessa Rueda
News Editors
Lukas Moon
Megan Zucker
Spotlight Editor
Alexandra Castilla
Opinions Editor
Emma Singer
Submerge Yourself
Editors
Leidy Perez
Karla Anderson
A&E Editor
Jillian Roberts
Tech Editor
Emma Singer
High Tide Editors
Karla Anderson
Staff Writers
Karla Anderson
Nicole Brandford
Jasmine Calin
Alexandra Castilla
Trudy Clarke
Gabriella Delpozo
Jordan Feldman
Alexia Frith
Shatone Gray
Steven Li
Chamere Littlejohn
Andres Lopez
Ricardo Martinez
Alexander Melendez
Megan Miranda
Lukas Moon
Chiedozie Okafor
Julian Ortiz
Leidy Perez
Jillian Roberts
Vanessa Rueda
Emma Singer
Shane Sumbu
Megan Zucker
Advisor
Cheri MitchellSantiago
Principal
Adrianne Leal
Graphic by Steven Li
Baitline strives to provide quality student-led publications to
the student body providing the school community with an
open forum of public expression. In the publications class,
students will make all editorial decisions including, but not
limited to: generating story ideas, writing copy, editing copy,
laying out copy, taking photographs, and handling all aspects
of running the business end of a school publication. Because of
this, any comments or concerns should be addressed to the
editorial staff.
It should be understood that the newspaper is not a professional
publication; therefore, students will make mistakes during the
learning process. As a staff, we will make every effort to learn
from these mistakes and continually improve the publication.
While our primary goal is to inform and entertain the school
community, we also strive to maintain high journalistic
standards. All opinions expressed in the publications are the
students’ or the individual sources, and not the staff’s as a
whole, the advisor, or school officials.
Letters to the editor are appreciated and can be delivered to
room 305 or e-mailed to
[email protected]. All letters submitted may be
condensed or edited for grammar and spelling. Libelous material
will not be printed.
Information about submitting ads can be obtained by e-mailing
[email protected].
Past issues can be viewed at http://crhs.dadeschools.net.
Opinions
7
Fat attack! Are school
Coral Reef Sr. High
April 2009
lunches actually
unhealthy nutritional
options for students?
EMMA
SINGER
Photo/Grapic by Emma Singer.
Michelle Fuentes, an IB senior, poses with an array of
sweets, the kinds of foods that are available to students.
Today, in the teenage
community, obesity has
been a huge struggle.
Students struggle with
making healthy choices
and learning to choose
correct
portions.
One would think
that a school
would support
these students.
However, this
is not the case.
Coral
Reef
Senior High has
been providing its
students with high
calorie, expensive,
and
unhealthy
foods.
Students
were
shocked
when
told about the caloric values of
their lunches. Most were unaware
that, according to calorielab.
com, a single slice of Papa John’s
Pepperoni Pizza contains 420
calories. Many students eat two
slices daily.
“I’m shocked! This explains
the 10 pounds I’ve gained in the
last 2 months,” said Alex Sholz,
an IB junior.
How can this school do this to
its students? There are no healthy
choices, and even the choices
that seem to be healthy are not.
The Chicken Wraps, served as a
“healthy” alternative, contain up
to 460 calories each, according to
caloriecounter.com. This would
be a healthy portion for lunch,
except most students eat it along
with other foods.
The hypocrisy of this is
unbelievable.
Adults are
preaching healthy eating habits,
when they are serving up side
dishes of obesity. School Board
executives felt that removing
soda machines from schools
would promote healthy eating.
Why would they remove the
soda machines, and leave the icecream machines? Some of these
frozen desserts contain over 300
calories!
“As a dancer, I need to be very
careful about what I eat. School
food doesn’t let me have any
healthy alternatives to a brownbagged lunch. If I want to have a
hot lunch, I have to eat a meal that
is ridiculously high in calories,
and to top it off, isn’t very
filling,” said Mallory Neumann,
VPA junior.
So why does our school serve
these foods? If they know that
they are poisoning their students,
why would they continue to sell
these foods? If the school is trying
to encourage healthy eating, why
would they purposely tempt their
students?
Students are aware that head
football coach, Coach Clemens,
has been selling HoneyBuns to
raise money for the team. What
they are not aware of is that each
of these treats contain 560 calories
each. It is ridiculous that the
school allows this to continue.
School administrators have
responded to this problem by
suggesting that students eat the
cafeteria lunch. This lunch is no
healthier, and much less edible.
“Though cafeteria food looks
awful, it tastes even worse. It
doesn’t fill me up, but I have no
other options,” says Jordan Lang,
an IB freshman.
So what is to be done? Students
need to let our voices be heard.
If we want to be healthier, we
need to start at school. Talk to
administrators. If we bother them
enough, they will make a change.
Hell month comes again. Are AP exams worth it?
MEGAN ZUCKER
Staff Writer
When most individuals
think of the month of April,
they think about springtime,
when flowers are coming
into bloom and the weather
is turning warmer.
However, it may be a
dreaded month for almost
any student taking an AP
class because students must
prepare for their upcoming
AP tests in a time known as
hell month.
It’s a time when teachers
are scrambling to cram
every last bit of information
that they have taught their
students in the last six
months into their heads, in
order to fully prepare them
for their upcoming test.
It’s also known as the
worst four weeks of the
school year, to any student
who has taken an AP course
before.
“I remember hearing
horrible things about the
so-called hell month from
students last year. They
said it was absolute torture
and that it was unbearable.
When it came time to it,
they were kind of
right! Preparing
for my AP World
History test last
year was pretty
bad, but in the end
it was very helpful
to me when it
came time to
taking the actual
AP test!” said IB
sophomore Kira
Graber.
Many AP
teachers believe
that the grades
made by their
students during the
school year have
no importance in
comparison to the
grade that is made
on the actual
AP test. Some
teachers though,
Photo by Lukas Moon
feel the exact IB juniors Andy Mills, Michael Cisneros, Veronica Medina, Andrea Hernandez, David Kuhn and
opposite. However Ashley Holliday are terrorized by Ms. Kirchner during Hell Month.
they may feel,
teachers all have the
“My normally sweet, kind, is the reason we have such the teachers who have the
same goal in mind. To help gentle, lovable self turns great scores!” said AP luxury of handing out “F’s”
their students as much as into a monster! I scream, European History teacher, left and right to students
possible and hope that all yell, threaten, and berate, Mr. Hunt.
who are not on top of things,
of the knowledge they have but all out of tough love.
Although hell month may it’s a whole different story
gained will help them to
I am convinced that this be all fun and games for for the students.
pass their test.
Hell month is a time when
grades drop drastically,
tests and essays are given
out every class, and blood,
sweat, and tears are put
into studying and doing
assignments, just to get
ready for one test, that in
all honestly, doesn’t mean
anything.
Of course, it’s a
disappointment to have sat
through a class all year and
not pass the AP test, but it
has no affect on your grade
and is just a good reward if
you do well on it.
When it comes time to
hell month, all students
taking AP courses need to
take a deep breath and relax.
As long as individuals pace
themselves by not getting
behind in reading and other
assignments, hell month
can be a time that really
doesn’t turn out to be that
bad.
Just remember, hell month
is not a time to slack off
and become distracted. It’s
a time that is supposed to
help you become prepared
for the upcoming AP test.
Coral Reef Sr. High
April 2009
8
SUBMERGE
Where is all the poetry?
Doesn’t it seem like we are getting less appreciative of poetry
everyday?
EMMA SINGER
Staff Writer
Sadly, in this day and age, poetry has come
to be seen as an outdated and upper-class
method of communicating one’s thoughts and
emotions. However, this is entirely untrue.
Coral Reef is home to many poets, as well
as connoisseurs of the art. Many students are
unaware of how much poetry plays a role in
our school.
Ellen Hopkins, a popular author of many
novels geared toward young adults, writes
entirely in poems. Her novels tell the stories
of teenage girls who go through a variety of
tragedies, ranging from drug abuse to religious
identity. Her poetry is not stereotypical, and
I highly doubt Shakespeare that would have
approved of her works! One of her most
popular novels, Crank, talks about a girl
addicted to methamphetamines. Told entirely
in the first person, Crank is full of double
meanings, which can be conveyed only
through poetry.
In music, poetry is everywhere. From rap
to rock, poetry makes up the lyrics we scream
at parties, blast in the car, and load up your
iPod with. The Fray’s latest hit, “You Found
Me,” screams with poetic angst. “But in the
end everyone ends up alone/ Losing her,
the only one who’s ever known/Who I am,
who I’m not and who I wanna to be/No
way to know how long she will be next to
me.” If that’s not poetry, nothing is.
Elysium, Coral Reef’s literary arts
magazine, strives to recognize our student
poets. By encouraging students to submit
their literary works, students feel a
sense of appreciation for their art.
Upon reading the magazine,
teachers and students alike
are shocked by the eloquence
and passion displayed in
the writing of their
peers.
Poetry isn’t just
Shakespearean sonnets,
or Robert Frost’s cryptic
messages. Poetry is
a simple, eloquent
way to convey
the passionate
emotions of a
time. Poetry is
everywhere, in
everything we
do.
The 7 essential
rules to being a
successful poet
EMMA SINGER
Staff Writer
1.
Do not worry about rhyming. A poem that has a strong message and eloquent vocabulary does not
need forced rhymes to sound, well, poetic.
2.
Don’t write about your boyfriend/girlfriend dumping you and expect it to sound original. It’s been
done too many times.
3.
When you feel awful, and sad, and depressed, sure, it can help to write poetry. It’s nice to express
your feelings on paper. However, don’t expect people to be awed by the depth of your writing. We all know
you’re sad. Have a good cry, but don’t expect other of us to appreciate your angst.
4.
Write how you speak. If you don’t have a wide vocabulary, don’t try to write poetry with words you
don’t fully understand. Some of the best poems have used simple words and ideas. Just let your voice shine
through.
5.
Don’t be shy about sharing your art! Poetry is something that can only be improved and developed
with feedback. And if someone has criticisms, or ideas about how your poetry can be improved, don’t be
offended! Take their advice, and move on.
6.
Don’t let your message get lost in translation. When writing down your ideas on paper, write what
you feel. Don’t try to make it sound “poetic” right away. Just get the main ideas down, and then develop it.
7.
Try and write happy poetry. Poetry doesn’t have to be dark and depressing. Some of the best poems
ever written are about a warm summer day, or something cliché like that.
9
YOURSELF
Celebrating creativity: April is
National Poetry Month
TRUDY CLARKE
Staff Writer
National Poetry Month is a month-long,
national celebration of poetry established
by the Academy of American Poets in the
month of April. The reason behind
national poetry month is to widen
the attention of people as well as
the media to the art of poetry,
also, living poets as well as the
greats that have passed, to
complex poetic heritage,
and to poetry books and
journals of diverse poets
that are usually unheard of
or forgotten.
National poetry month
hopes
to
increase
the visibility and
availability
of
poetry in popular
culture as well as,
while
acknowledging
and celebrating
poetry’s ability
to thrive through
the
many
places where it
is practiced and
appreciated.
The Academy of
American
Poets
have
continued
this initiative from
its start in April of 1996
and along the way has received help from a
variety of government agencies and officials,
educational leaders, publishers, sponsors,
poets, and arts organizations.
The month of April was chosen in coordination
with poets, booksellers, librarians, and teachers.
The Academy chose a month when poetry
could be celebrated with the highest level of
participation and concentration. Taking into
consideration that February is Black History
Month and Women’s History Month is in the
month of March, and also with the advice of
teachers and librarians, April seemed the best
time within the year to turn attention toward
the art of poetry.
The goals of National Poetry Month
are to pay knowledge and tribute to the
extraordinary legacy and ongoing achievement
of American poets. Other goals are to introduce
more Americans to the pleasures of reading
poetry, bring poets and poetry to the public in
immediate and innovative ways, make poetry a
more important part of the school curriculum,
increase the attention paid to poetry by
national and local media, encourage increased
publication, distribution, and sales of poetry
books .Increase public and private support for
poets and poetry.
National poetry month has been
going strong since April of 1996 thanks to the
hard work and dedication of the Academy of
American poets. Although, National Poetry
month as well as Black History month, and
Women’s History month has been limited for a
month there are 365 days in a year and they all
should be celebrated and treasured each and
every day.
“15 great poets that
aren’t dead British guys”
1.
Maya Angelou
7.
Allan Ginsberg
2.
Shel Silverstein
8.
Li-Young Lee
3.
Langston Hughes
9.
Gary Soto
4.
T.S. Eliot
10. Alice Walker
5.
John Berryman
11. Lisa Zaran
6.
D.C. Berry
12. Cecilia Woloch
13. Pablo
Neruda
14. William
Butler Yeats
15. Theodore
Roethke
Coral Reef Sr. High
April 2009
10
A&E
Coral Reef Sr. High
April 2009
The Fair came to town to play on March 26th
TRUDY CLARKE
Staff Writer
The Miami-Dade County Fair celebrated
its 58th year, March 26 through April 12,
located at the Fair Expo Center on Coral
Way and 112th Avenue.
The Fair first began as a four day event
to showcase the produce, livestock and
homemaking projects of 4-H and FFA
(Future Farmers of America) students.
These groups participated to win ribbons,
trophies, and cash prizes, which they still
receive today.
It was originally named the “Youth
Fair.” The name remained the same until
1991 and was modified again in 1997.
The Fair started as a small, agricultural fair
in the area of what we know as Dadeland,
and has grown into one of the country’s
largest and most successful fairs.
The Miami Dade County Fair and
Exposition, Inc. is governed by a volunteer
board of directors. One of their many
missions is to enrich our community by
promoting education and South Florida
agriculture while showcasing and rewarding
youth achievement and accomplishments.
Each year close to 700,000 people come
to The Fair to take part in the education,
agriculture,
horticulture,
livestock,
entertainment, food, and rides on the 86
acre filled fairgrounds.
Miami-Dade County high school seniors
may now apply for more than $100,000
in college scholarships offered this spring
by the Miami-Dade County Fair and
Exposition.
The opening gates outside of The Fair are a familiar sight as people enter the fair.
All seniors enrolled in public and private
high schools in Miami-Dade County are
eligible for the awards. Applications are
available in each high school College
Assistance Office in early February.
The $2,000 scholarships are given to
graduating seniors who plan to attend an
accredited college, university, or trade
school. The winners are recognized at an
award ceremony during The Fair.
To this date, The Fair has awarded over
two million dollars to Miami-Dade high
school graduates to help them achieve
college educations.
This program is a step to preserve the
commitment of the community service by
the volunteer board of the Miami Dade
County Fair and Exposition, Inc.
The fair is also home to the Walter B.
Arnold Jr. Youth Hall of Fame. The Youth
Photo from http://www.fairexpo.com/expo
Hall of Fame was created to commemorate
those students whose unselfish commitment
of time and energy has impacted others.
In honoring youth achievement, the
Youth Hall of Fame serves as a beacon to
present and future youth.
“It’s always fun when the Fair comes,
because I get to hang out with my friends
and feel like a kid again,” said IB senior
Rashielle Teape.
Proof: Impacting the world one show at a time
Impact Theater teaches about the important of acceptance and equality in this day and age
JILLIAN ROBERTS
Staff Writer
As John Mayer says, “We
keep waiting on the world to
change.” The Holocaust Impact
Theater group, however, does
not go by John Mayer’s words.
Instead, it defies all boundaries
to educate the community about
discrimination and hatred.
Holocaust Impact Theater is a
group of high school students of
different ethnicities, religions,
and backgrounds who put on
theatrical
performances
to
promote cultural diversity and
tolerance. Since 2006, yearly
shows were performed which
educate the public about acts of
genocide, discrimination, and
prejudice.
This year, the majority
of Impact Theater’s cast is
composed of Coral Reef students.
The show, “Proof” took place
at the Alper JCC on Sunday,
March 22, Monday, March 23,
and Wednesday, March 25. The
show was completely studentwritten and student-edited, and
was student-produced IB junior
Schuyler Polk.
“Proof” begins with a
threat against the principal of a
high school. The school is put
on lockdown, and all students
are required to remain in the
classroom unless they are called
to the counselor’s office to be
questioned.
All students are quick to point
fingers at the easiest targets, based
on their personal prejudices and
biases. Who sent the anonymous
threat against the principal? Was
it the peppy cheerleader, the class
clown, the pregnant girl, or the
new kid?
To everyone’s surprise, the
Holocaust Remembrance Club
was the culprit behind the threat.
They wanted to teach the student
a lesson about how discrimination
and hatred still exist over 60
years after the Holocaust. The
accusations about who sent the
threat were perfect examples of
how discrimination is still alive
today.
Once everyone becomes aware
of their own prejudices will they
be able to accept one another and
work towards equality and peace.
“It is really important that
people realize the consequences
of what they say and do. I hope
Impact Theater’s productions
will teach everyone to be more
conscience of their actions,” said
Schuyler.
Our country has come
a long way since the times of
racial segregation in the 1940’s.
However, many people don’t
realize that discrimination is still
prevalent in our everyday lives.
White women still hold their
purses a little closer as they walk
by a black man on the street.
Silent sneers are still muttered
about the gay boy in the back
of the classroom. Hispanics are
continuously tormented for their
unfamiliarity with the language.
The goal of Impact Theater
is to promote awareness about
discrimination and to inspire the
community to make a difference.
It tries to reach out to the public
and teach them about the horrors
of our society, and of our world.
Once we are aware, maybe
then, we can start to change our
actions and make the world a
better place.
“This year was my first year
in Impact Theater, and I wish I
would have taken part before. It
makes me feel like I am making
a difference in the community by
spreading awareness about the
Holocaust and different aspects
of hatred. Impact Theater sends
an important message to the
community that should be heard
and recognized by everyone,”
said IB senior Alexa Goodman.
Holocaust
Impact
Theater is an encouraging group
that needs to be recognized for
their hard work and dedication.
They are spreading a positive
message to the community
by promoting tolerance and
acceptance, and are teaching
important lessons that will last a
lifetime.
Photos courtesy of Schuyler Polk
The cast onstage in the classroom scene.
Ali Oliva and Valeria Marcial act as
Chongas in “Proof”.
Schuyler Polk playing her role of the
pregnant girl.
A&E
Coral Reef Sr. High
April 2009
11
Ultra Music Festival mesmerizes music fans
fans of all genres gather at Ultra for a weekend of fun, sun and music, music, and more music
ALEXANDER MELENDEZ
Staff Writer
Few events have the ability to stir up the Miami social scene as
Ultra Music Festival does. From the crazy and unique outfits to the
pulsating beats, when Ultra comes to town, it comes with a bang- a
bang which is heard through the streets of downtown and the beaches
of the coast, and one that attracts the young and old alike. When
March roles around, the countdown begins. Music lovers rejoice as
the sun sets and the sky comes to life with lights.
As preparations were well on their way at Bicentennial Park, the
avid festival-goers were making their own preparations. A check list
consisting of various miscellaneous items, whose sole purpose is to
enhance the experience the night will soon offer. As the girls slid into
their tutus, and the boys threw on their shades, adrenaline is felt in the
room. March 27 is here, and the time has come.
“As soon the sun went down, everything came to life. Everyone’s
outfits were ridiculous, and at times, people forgot if they were at
Ultra or at a Halloween convention,” said Legal senior Tani Calderon.
Part of the reason so many people attend Ultra is because it gives
them a reason to go crazy for one night, for the small price tag of $90
a ticket, of course. However, for those who think that one night of
ultimate bliss is not enough, they can always choose to upgrade to a
two night ticket, for an additional fee of $40.
Now to some that might seem like an absurd amount to simply
spend the night at some park dancing, but as any Ultra fanatic will
let you know, it is well worth it. Dancing to the live beats by some of
the biggest names in the industry such as Tiesto, Benny Benassi, and
David Guetta, is a once in a year experience.
“I definitely believe I got my money’s worth. I mean sure, water
bottles were $5 and burritos were $10, but the music was hype and
Paul Van Dyke was worth it,” said Legal senior Michael Rivera.
Whether rocking it out at the main stage to the Black Eyed Peas or
listening to the deep underground sounds of Dirty South at Amnesia
Ibiza Arena, Ultra delivered to the masses. For these party goers,
March 27 and 28 was a year long craving, a craving that Ultra most
certainly satisfied.
“It was one the best experiences of my life, and it left me wanting
more. The only bad thing about the whole night was when it ended.
I am so excited for next year though, but to be honest they set the
bar real high, we will have to see if they can out do themselves next
year,” said Medical senior Elise Farjado.
And while everyone danced the night away in a deep trance of
indescribable sounds, a question lingered in the back of their minds.
Will next year be as hypnotic as this one? Ultimately, everyone will
have to wait until next year and see.
Ultra has now come and gone, and while the countdown is being
reset and the 2010 calendars are being marked with next year’s date,
music lovers will dwell in their night of euphoria and satisfaction.
To many, Ultra Music Festival 2009, was a great way to start
wrapping up their senior year; and to others it is a great reminder that
sometimes music can undoubtedly bring people together. Whatever
the case, Ultra will be a memory that many will carry on with them as
the leave off to pursue their dreams.
Photos by Alexandra Castilla
Medical senior Melissa Nunez and friend
having fun in the crowd.
Watchmen movie review
Photo by Alexander Melendez
CHAMERE LITTLEJOHN
Staff Writer
After
much
anticipation, Watchmen
finally hit theaters, selling
out the box office. But
just because tickets were
being sold out doesn’t
mean there was a good
outcome.
Comic
lovers
settled in their seats to
preview what took 23
years to finally hit the big
screen. The epic is almost
2 ½ hours long, and most
critics claim it was a
waste of time. Though the
graphics were amazing
and breathtaking, the film
did not have the outcome
most expected.
It was set in a
mid-eighties Manhattan
setting which was a
display of the comic
book imagination, where
costumed
vigilantes
changed the course of US
history.
The film stars
Patrick Wilson and Jeffrey
Dean Morgan, who both
played leading roles in
the movie. The setting
starts out with a brutal
killing, and then takes the
audience though the Cold
War years. It lands them
in 1985, when Nixon is
in his third term, leaving
the crowd in an alternate
1985 America.
Maybe it was the
plot of the movie that had
movie-goers questioning
the likes of the movie.
Some argue that
prolonged scenes could
have been eliminated.
Those who enjoy violent
superhero movies enjoyed
the broken limbs and
smashed skulls all over
the screen.
The debatable
question that arose from
the film was the blue man,
Dr. Manhattan. Could this
superhero be created in a
better way?
Movie-goers
also felt that the film did
not create another world,
as did the movie 300
which was also directed
by Zack Synder.
Too
much
anticipation for a move
can sometimes cause bad
reviews.
Expectations
were set high for this
movie and that might
have been the problem
for the unenthusiastic
outcome.
Photo credit- http://editdesk.files.wordpress.
com/2009/03/watchmen-cover1.jpg
12
Coral Reef Sr. High
April 2009
Sports
Students volunteer at the Sony Ericsson Open
held annually at the University of Miami
JORDAN FELDMAN Reef were ball persons
Staff Writer
for the Sony Ericsson
From March 25th to
April 5th, the fifth largest
tennis tournament in the
world took place in Key
Biscayne. Individuals from
all over the world came to
Miami to watch the best
tennis players in the world.
Players in this year’s
Sony Ericsson included
Rafael
Nadal,
Roger
Federer, Novak Djokovic
and many other top players.
Last year’s champion,
Nikolay Davydenko, did
not play due to injury.
“As a ball person at the
Sony Ericsson Open, I’ve
seen great tennis and made
so many new friends. I
enjoy the atmosphere and
being able to watch my
favorite tennis players such
as Rafael Nadal and Juan
Martin Del Potro,” said
IB Sophomore, Alejandra
Garcia.
Many students at Coral
Tournament this year.
Before the tournament
begins, ball persons attend
trainings in Key Biscayne
that will prepare them for
when the Open begins. At
the trainings, ball persons
practice rolling the balls,
entering the court, and
presenting the balls to the
tennis players.
The trainings help the ball
person coordinators choose
who will be accepted for
the tournament. On March
14th, ball persons attended
the final training where
they received their uniform,
credentials, and tickets.
“I haven’t been a ball boy
since freshman year, but
I’m definitely doing it next
year. It’s so much fun and
I get tons of community
service hours. Also, I like
getting the free clothes
because the jacket is really
cool,” said VPA junior,
Samuel Huxford.
Ball persons do not
get paid with money, but
get community service
hours, a Fila uniform
worth $300, and an
experience of a life time.
Ball persons get to keep
their original uniform
and get new ones each
year.
“I volunteered at the
Sony Ericsson Open,
but not as a ball person
like most of my friends.
Instead, I volunteered
in one of the Fila tents,
selling the clothing,
shoes, and accessories
to the spectators of the
tournament,” said IB
sophomore, Alixandria
Fiore.
Photo by Matt Micklavzina
Not only did Coral
Venus Williams makes an appearance at the Sony Ericsson Open.
Reef Students volunteer
as ball people, but also in
the sports tents, souvenir
don’t get the same uniform service hours.
tournament due to the
shops, and by handing out
as
ball
people,
they
do
The
2009
Sony
Ericsson
pleased tennis fans and the
maps of the tournament.
get
the
same
community
Open
was
a
very
successful
tense competition.
Although these volunteers
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Have a Facial & Chocolate Body Wrap Summer Spa party
Reasonable rate Packages. Say Coral Reef get 10% off. Gift Certificates available.
Do something special for your Parents on Mother’s Day & Father’s Day!
Ad
Coral Reef Sr. High
April 2009
13
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14
Coral Reef Sr. High
April 2009
Spotlight
The art of capoeira
Aronia Harris and the sport and art of Capoeira
Shane Sumbu
Staff Writer
Capoeira according to the
encyclopedia is an AfroBrazilian sport developed
by African slaves in Brazil
which is half fight and half
dance.
The sport began as form
of defense created by
African slaves in Brazil
and used against slave
masters and others who
may be harmful.
To avoid suspicion
from their slave masters
dance, music and song
was combined with rough
fighting
styles.
Now
almost 200 years later,
Coral Reef’s own Business
senior, Aronia Harris
practices the Brazilian
martial art.
“I started at the end of my
Photo by Shane Sumbu
8th grade year in middle
Harris displays the endurance and strength he gained
school, I’ve been doing it
from practicing Capoeira.
for 4 years,” said Harris
The talented yellow belt
got into the sport through
such as Reef’s Best and the Mr. Barracuda
his older brother who practiced the sport pageant. He goes on to say Capoeira is an
at an academy before Harris did. After art form of expression rather than a martial
watching some DVDs and a few classes he art where one competes.
was hooked!
“I plan to excel in Capoeira in every way
“It teaches balance, rhythm, reaction, possible, not only to better myself in the
timing, agility, acrobatics, mental and sport but better my strength, power and
physical strength. You also learn self agility,” says Harris.
defense & several kicks and hit,” said
In the future Aronia Harris aspires to
Harris when asked how he benefits from become an instructor so he can teach others
the Martial Art.
the art of Capoeira. He eventually wants to
Currently at his 3rd belt, which is yellow, open an academy for Capoeira with his
Aronia regularly performs at school events brother and ultimately master the sport.
Photo by Shatone Gray
Grant balances track, football, and strong academics at
school while still managing to be President of the Sigma
Beta Club of Miami.
Gerald Grant does it all
SHATONE GRAY
Staff Writer
More often than not,
students’ accomplishments
are
not
given
the
recognition as they should
be, especially here at Coral
Reef where the standards
are exceptionally high as
well as the rate of success.
Business Senior Gerald
Grant, participates in more
than four activities both
outside and in school and
still maintains straight-A
grades.
His current-held positions
include: 08-09 President
of the Sigma Beta Club
of Miami, 08-09 Teen
President of Jack and Jill
of America, Inc. South
Miami Chapter, and 08-09
Step master of the Sigma
Beta Club Step Team.
In addition to these office
positions, Gerald runs track
and plays football for Coral
Reef.
With all of these
responsibilities, his alone
time stands at a minimum.
For most of his school
year, his schedule was as
follows: Go to school, go to
practice, do homework, go
to sleep, and wake up just
to do it all over again.
However, all of his hard
work proved to be worth
it when it paid off, quarter
after quarter. Because of
his outstanding work ethic
and grades as a result of
it, Gerald was invited to
take part in the Principal’s
Honor Roll Breakfast for
the first two grading periods
of the year.
Finishing with straight
A’s in both academics and
conduct, his name was on
the list two times in a row.
After all, he would need the
breakfast in his stomach so
he could be fueled enough
for the upcoming long day
at football practice.
Gerald will be attending
Hampton
University
in Virginia to study for
his MBA in Marketing.
Although he was recruited
for football in other
smaller schools, Hampton
University was his first
choice after visiting the
school on the Sigma Beta
Club’s annual College Tour
which he took major part in
planning.
Ad
Coral Reef Sr. High
April 2009
15
Miami Dade College
Summer Open House
Saturday, May 30, 2009
O
10 a.m. - Noon
All Miami Dade College Campuses
Each campus will award one scholarship for in-state tuition, fees and books for
the fall or spring term.
Who should attend?
s(IGHSCHOOLSTUDENTSPARENTSHIGHSCHOOLPERSONNELANDANYONEINTERESTEDINSTARTINGANEWCAREER
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You will have the opportunity to:
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Reserve your spot now!
4ORESERVEYOURSPOTORGETMOREINFORMATIONVISIT
www.mdc.edu/openhouse or call 305.237.8888
)FYOUHAVESPECIALNEEDSORQUESTIONSCONCERNINGACCESSIBILITYCALLTHECAMPUSYOUPLANTOVISITATLEASTTHREEDAYS
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16
Opinion
Coral Reef Sr. High
April 2009
Killer Coke:
a consumer speaks out
LUKAS MOON
Staff Writer
Coca-Cola is one of the most successful global
corporations. They own the largest chain of drinks
in the world and are rooted in over 170 countries
globally. There is, however a great controversy
involving the Coca-Cola company and the
suspicious death of multiple union members.
In fact, every time someone drinks a CocaCola product, they are supporting the
multiple murders that Coca-Cola has
been implicated in.
In 2001, the workers union
SINALTRAINAL, and the estate
of Isidro Segundo Gil sued the
Coca-Cola Company as well as
the firms it owns in the city of
Carepa Colombia and the two men
in charge of the Coca-Cola plant
in Carepa: Richard I. Kirby and
his son Richard Kirby Kielland.
SINALTRAINAL and
the family members of Isidro
Segundo Gil were suing the CocaCola Company for the
death of Isidro at the
hands of Paramilitary
units stationed at the
plant. They claimed
that the Coca-Cola
Company was not only
aware of the actions being
taken by the Paramilitary units
but that the company in fact
directed the paramilitary
men to do so. The CocaCola company claims that
they were unaware and
uninvolved with the tragic
murder of Isidro.
The facts are as follows. Isidro
was elected leader of the SINALTRAINAL
union in 1995. The following year a man
named Ariosto Mosquera was hired to manage
the bottling plant in Carepa. Mosquera allegedly made multiple threats to Union
members telling them to quit the union or leave Carepa and often allowed paramilitary
units in the plant. Isidro requested the Coca-Cola company protect union members
and prevent paramilitary units from being present at the coca-Cola plant in Carepa.
On December the 5th, 1996, Isidro was killed in the factory by 2
paramilitary men that witnesses stated had previously appeared
with Mosquera at the plant. That same night the union building
was burned to the ground and another Union member
was kidnapped. The following morning the same
paramilitary troops were camped outside the plant
and told all workers to quit the union or else they
would be killed too. The paramilitary troops
remained outside of the plant for two months
and also allegedly killed Jose Librado
Herrera Osorio, on December 26th. The
Union was crushed.
The case was dismissed based on
a technicality, stating the court in the
United States didn’t have jurisdiction to
try a crime that happened in Colombia.
Coca-Cola and the plant owners Kirby
and Kielland were dismissed of all
charges and lawsuits. What’s worse is
that there are six other murders that the
Coca-Cola Company is similarly tied
into.
It would seem like a gross injustice
that such crime go unpunished. “It is
unfortunate for a large company to
resolve their internal issues through
unnecessary paramilitary force,
instead of diplomatic means,” said
Michel Tabbal, a senior in the
engineering academy.
It is so tragic that this
company can get away with
these crimes. So it is time to
take action. It is time to stop
supporting a corporation that is
stained with the blood of its workers.
Coral Reef has multiple vending
machines
with
Coca-Cola
owned items. PowerAde,
Dasani, Minute Maid, and
Vitamin water are all
Coca-Cola products
that are sold in this
school. And Coke products aren’t just in schools, they’re everywhere. But if a large
enough number of people stand together and boycott the Coca-Cola Company, then
maybe Coca-Cola will change its ways and act justly. So the time has come to stand
up for what is right, the time has come to boycott Coca-Cola.
What you can drink in place of Coca-Cola products
Coca-cola product
Photo by Lukas Moon
• Coke-a-cola (and all
of its different types)
• Dasani
• Dr.pepper and
mr.pibbs
• Fanta
• Mellow Yellow
• Sprite
• Minute maid
• Vault
• Poweraid
Alternative product
• Pepsi
• Zephyrhills,
Aquafina, or purified
tap water
• No alternative
• Sunkist or juice
• Mountain Dew
• 7 up, sierra mist
• Juice
• Red bull, monster
• Gatorade
• Guarana Antartica