March 2010 - Volume 46 - Issue 3 - Miami Springs Senior High - 751 Dove Ave, Miami Springs, FL 33166 Haiti walk off in the circle School Violence By: Grethel Villalobos this did not deter Anchor members from mak- On February 13, 2010, Miami Springs ing the most out of the campaign they had Senior High stepped up to contribute to a very initiated. The campaign consisted of food important foundation: the Haiti Relief Fund. stands, donation locations, and performances Many arrived to support this cause, which is from our school’s talented Golden Girls and desperately needed now and for many years Dance Fusion teams. The “walk” started to come. Americans had not dealt with a natu- from the beginning of Curtiss Parkway and ral disaster on the scale of the earthquake in proceeded down to the golf course. It lasted Haiti since Hurricane Katrina struck New Orle- from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., and was a wonderful ans. School clubs like Anchor and Hospitality success. At the end of the day, Ms. Doyle & Tourism have contributed a helping hand. announced that they had reached their goal Hospitality and Tourism launched operation of one thousand dollars. If you would like to “Triple H” that will send blankets, food, and know how you can lend a helping hand with other miscellaneous items to Haiti. Anchor, project Triple H or Benefit Haiti, please go to which was the leading force behind the Haiti room 129 or talk to any member of the An- walk that occurred on Curtiss Parkway and chor club. Any donation no matter how small began their fundraising efforts bright and early helps.—“No act of kindness, no matter how to make the most out of the daytime. The small, is ever wasted.” ~Aesop weather conditions were cold and windy, but Mr. Thomas Ennis, Sherrieka Othello, and Mr. Frank Lasaga posed for pictures after the night’s meeting (Photo: Yessenia DePaz) By: Yessenia DePaz jor problem in schools today.” To this An assembly took place on particular comment, Mr. Lasaga re- January 14, 2010, in MSSH’s auditori- plied, it all comes down to “lack of um to discuss school violence within in parent participation. If they are not Miami-Dade County Public Schools. willing to help and get involved, how The goal of the night was to hold an are we going to help?” This is a prob- open forum between 6:00 p.m. and lem that students are currently facing 8:00 p.m. to generate feedback from in schools today. All in all, parents students, concerned parents, and were reassured and the night’s objec- community members regarding the tive was met, which was to inform the increased violence in our public public about school violence and schools. Even though, only a small about student safety within our gathering of approximately 50 people school. Special thanks go to our Prin- attended the meeting, it was eventful cipal, Thomas Ennis, Trust Counse- and full of community feedback. Alt- lor, Frank Lasaga, Head-Counselor, hough, there were definitely mixed Rosamelia Gonzalez, and student feelings. “There is nothing wrong with representative, Sherrieka Othello, our school,” one person stated. Anoth- who through great efforts made this er student remarked, “Drugs are a ma- night possible. Students gathered for a short break (Photo: Ms. Doyle) Junior Ring Ceremony By: Gisella Loffredo ca Horta, and Lily Valdez) and the Pledge of Miami Springs’ auditorium played host Allegiance by Class Representative Yessenia to this year’s Junior Class Ring Ceremony on DePaz. After taking their seats once again, Thursday, March 4, 2010, after a two year President, Shayleen Bernal, welcomed the remodeling project. The auditorium sparkled in guests followed by Principal Ennis. The tradi- all it’s glory with brand new seating, sophisti- tion continued with the Ring Heritage by Histo- cated lighting, and enhanced music equip- rian, Themis Lopez; How To Wear Your Ring ment. The crowd of approximately 400 stu- by Vice-President, Eden Cintron; and Tradi- dents, parents, teachers, and staff enjoyed a tion of Unity by Treasurer, Patty Skarlinsky. memorable evening courtesy of Herff Jones. The evenings’ festivities culminated with The The Class Sponsor, Mrs. Karlick, opened the Principal’s Dedication during which Principal festivities by introducing the Class of 2011 Ennis commended the students and led them who made their awaited entrance to “That in the placing of the rings. “It was a nice cere- New New” from Kid Cudi. The evening pro- mony that the Juniors will always remember,” [L-R] Vice President, Eden Cintron; Historian Themis Lopez, Class Repre- ceeded with the Presentation of Colors by remarked Lily Valdez. sentative, Yessenia DePaz; President, Shayleen Bernal, and Treasurer, JROTC (Lauren Rego, Ivania Delacruz, Jessi- Patty Skarlinsky (Photo: Gisella Loffredo)

MSSH continues Music & film to shine Page 7 Page 4

Tragedy in the air Living Page 2 Page 5

Politics Page 2 Gay rights and the military By: Grethel Villalobos orably discharged are striped of military Many in today’s society might view benefits and prestige. The military’s policy the issue of gay rights as a matter that is has gay, as well as heterosexual people, taboo or immoral or better left ignored. questioning the basics of its foundations. However, due to recent events involving In a time of middle-eastern tensions, many gay rights politics, such as proposition 8’s question the validity and effectiveness of ban on gay marriage in California, it seems such a policy. While the United States Ar- that activists, celebrities, and even politi- my seeks to raise its enlistment numbers, it cians have spoken out in outrage. is also turning down openly gay individuals While the issue of gay rights has who are qualified to serve in the military. Photo: courtesy of Bing.com received growing support since 1973, when New light may soon be shed on the 15 the American Psychiatric Association first year-old-policy since President Obama Massachusetts’ Senate seat removed homosexuality off its list of mental promised to have it eventually reversed. disorders, the struggle remains a long road The issue remains open and is still being By: Brian Engleman voters are Republican and Democrats out- down the path of equality. evaluated. Many laws have been Shortly after the polls closed on number Republicans 3 and half to 1. The One of the most controversial laws passed regarding the rights of gays and Tuesday, January 20, 2010, the Massachu- last Republican Senator elected from Mas- passed in 1993 by the United States gov- lesbians. One of the most controversial setts Senate seat was still undecided. sachusetts was Edward Brooke on January ernment is the military’s policy of “don’t laws has been the legalization of marriage Throughout much of the campaign for the late 3, 1979 over 31 years ago. Various news ask, don’t tell.” While many see the law as a in some states. For example, the legaliza- Senator Ted Kennedy’s long held seat, both outlets reported on several reasons why loophole in the strict system and a small tion of gay marriage in California has gone Scott Brown (Republican) and Martha Coak- Martha Coakley’s campaign ultimately ley (Democrat) ran neck and neck. At the failed. CNN’s Democratic strategists say the victory for the gay rights movement, others from being legal back to being illegal. On start of the campaign, Martha Coakley held a reason Coakley lost was because she didn’t see it as discriminatory and an outright vio- May 15, 2009 the “California Supreme slight lead in the polls. However, as the cam- relate to the Massachusetts voters and did- lation of constitutional and human rights. Court ruled that same-sex couples have a paign progressed, President Obama traveled n’t campaign as heavily as Brown did. The The policy states that the United States mili- constitutional right to marry. By November to Massachusetts to help Coakley gain sup- Boston Globe stated Coakley’s downfall tary must hide any interest in the sexual 3, 2009, more than 18,000 same-sex cou- port. Despite President Obama’s support for was that she didn’t go around meeting vot- ples were legally married under state sanc- orientation of a potential enlistee or of those Coakley, Republican Scott Brown’s cam- ers. But when you interview the people of already enlisted in the service, while dis- tion. On November 4, 2009, however, Cali- paign, which maintained a slight lead over Massachusetts, they will tell you the majori- charging homosexual individuals that open- fornia voters, via referendum, approved a Coakley with a 50-46 lead in the Suffix poll, ty voted for Brown because he didn’t sup- ly reveal themselves as such. The United ban on same-sex marriage called Proposi- achieved greater momentum. During the final port the way the Healthcare reform is being States military prides itself in setting high tion 8.” Due to gay supporters’ outrage, the week, many election networks were baffled at handled. This election proves that 51% of standards of moral character in its recruits. couples married before November 4, 2009 what was taking place. There had never been Americans dislike the Healthcare reform. According to the military’s policy, the open will remain legally married. The ban, how- a closer Massachusetts Senate seat race in Brown’s win will change the way Healthcare acceptance of gay individuals compromises ever, created resentment and anger and is all of its history. Due to the exit poll numbers, will be run in the United States Senate. the “the high standards of morale, good seen as a big setback. Gay issues contin- networks like Fox News and MSNBC be- Since Scott Brown won the Massachusetts order and discipline, and unit cohesion that ue to be controversial in today’s society lieved that Scott Brown would win by a small Senate seat, the Democrats in Congress are the essence of military capability." that is conservative by nature, and equality margin, but CNN had a different opinion stat- lost a 60 seat filibuster proof majority, which The “don’t ask” remains an ongoing battle. Still, just as ing that with President Obama and other po- makes the Senate Healthcare plan a lot part limits officials from asking questions supporter of similarly controversial causes litical advisors, Coakley would be the victor. harder to pass into law. While Obama still that determine a service person’s sexual have fought to gain acceptance over the On Tuesday night, Coakley conceded after has support on Capitol Hill and in Con- orientation, and the “don’t tell” part prohibits years, gay rights activists will continue to Scott Brown won 52% of the vote (1,127,531) gress, conservative Democrats from the members and potential members of the mili- fight for a share of justice. “Who would give and Coakley won 47% of the vote South and Midwest will rethink some of their tary from engaging or speaking about such a law to lovers? Love is unto itself a higher (1,013,451). Many political analysts still can’t answers on Healthcare reform, climate activities at the risk of being denied ac- law.” ~Boethius, The Consolation of Phi- believe that a Republican candidate won in change, and a second stimulus due to the ceptance, or expelled from the service with losophy, A.D. 524 an overwhelmingly blue (majority Democratic) recent events. Brown’s win sets the stage a dishonorable discharge. Members dishon- state. In Massachusetts, 12% of registered for what will be an interesting 2010 election. Austin plane crash By: Jemina Richardson our everyday lives as we flip on the T.V., pass by some wreck- deranged radicals, labeled as another casualty, another num- On February 18, 2010, Joseph Andrew Stack left age on the street hoping to catch a glance, or even in our own ber in this vicious cycle. I find that the saddest part, all of us behind a manifesto that has made many Americans question heads and dialogue in the hallways or outside school, building capable of individual brilliance only to fall for the seducing the direction in which the country is headed; ringing true to up the despair. One substitutes another, on to the new disas- ‘logic’ in our minds. It may be frustrating; it may shake you to innumerable working class Americans who have buried their ter of the day, meeting it with a bland indifference. So I ask your very core to know what’s going on all around you is feelings for too long. His message was a call to all those who you, what really stays in our minds? The repeated rudeness wrong and trying to act upon what is moral, but to be continu- have ever felt cheated, frustrated by the United States gov- on the street, or some kind eyes who held the door open for ally ignored. Don’t let this sink you; there are many others ernment. Throughout Joseph Stack’s manifesto, he points the passerby’s? that feel the same way, even if sometimes it surely feels oth- finger at the culprits responsible for bringing him to this point: Mahatma Gandhi and the others in the non-violent erwise. But there are peaceful ways in which to voice your homelessness escalates and poverty continues to rise due to resistance such as Leo Tolstoy, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., opinion. No one is telling you to give up, letting this “They” tax issues. Though some of these cases are negligent, there and Andrei Sakhanu, spoke to the world with anti-antagonism question your minds and sanity, but striking out with such are a few who have reason to dislike the IRS. Obviously, it’s and such a spiritual disposition that they nearly befriended disregard for human life, is neither heroic nor patriotic. not a perfect system; and for some Americans, this realization their enemies! Like the beating of the sea against the cliff side, In the Chinese ideogram, “crisis” contains two inter- is too much to handle, but to take matters into your own they slowly but surely, inspired the true pacifist. As Gandhi locked characters, one is danger, the other is opportunity. hands with such violent action is heinous. Not able to rightly once said, “It’s non-violence only when we love those that The beauty of crisis is that it holds inherent change. We live understand what to do with the whole situation, it begins to hate us. I know how difficult it is to follow this grand law of in times of immense violence; yet we had never been given spiral into confusion so grand that the irony is that the one love, but am not all great and good things difficult to do? Love such a great opportunity as this. We must learn to see the who realizes becomes just as ignorant and tragic as the ones of the hater is the most difficult of all. But by the grace of God, glass of water as half full not half empty. Things are just be- they oppose. It becomes a no-win situation. Joseph Stack even this most difficult thing becomes easy to accomplish if ginning! So let’s try something different: chose to escalate his hatred and act out his personal form of we want to.” And to take an “an eye for an eye, makes the “justice” by crashing his plane into an occupied IRS building. whole world blind.”  Break down the barriers of those alienated facades with a long lasting genuine smile. This desperate act is by no means right, nor is it in In the eyes of many Americans, Joseph Stack failed  Listen to others experiences and thoughts. any way justifiable to take another’s life through violence to in his attempt to gain validation for his act, because he merely get a point across. Joseph Stack’s suicide killed Vernon focused on the negative, the categories of “Us” and “Them”,  Yell out every hopeful slogan you know. Hunter, a military Vietnam War veteran and injured 13 other this in itself further alienates as a nation. Division only exists in  Stop waiting and wasting, just DO! innocent Echelon 1 occupants. In Joseph Stack’s manifesto, the minds of feeble men and on pieces of paper.” No matter  Have courage to do action, with pure intentions & pas- sion. he assures that “it has been a myth that people have stopped what we think, every human life matters! We are all just the dying for their freedom in this country”, but “by not adding my same, though separation must surely be the major disease of  Revolt in the streets with a dance and a song. body to the count, I insure nothing will change. I choose to not the Homo sapiens. We are able to see different nations or  Tell a stranger “I love you”. keep looking over my shoulder at “big brother”, I choose not social structures as inhuman objects or as a collection of num-  Think of the true “Matters of Consequences” to ignore what is going on all around me, I choose not to pre- bers. The idea of un-learning may seem counter intuitive to  Work with the situation you have here, there’s no use in saving the world when the one you live in and see every tend that business as usual won’t continue; I have just had the human progress, yet what we know of social stability is all day goes on being destroyed. enough.” As Joseph Stack implies, there are a few radicals an illusion. who provoke the minds to gain awareness, and this is, in fact, Granted, change cannot occur without the disestab- Bring in others to start this new concept, and even if the way a revolution begins. lishment of its preexisting system, but if you play by their rules, it seems as if nothing has changed, think again! Whatever However, what he fails to mention is that we cannot and seek violence as a means of evening the score, you are in happens, at least there will be a transformation within us. proceed as a nation without focusing on discussions and ne- for defeat. Speaking out in peaceful protest would have been Those thoughts will start a chain reaction, soon enough the gotiations. By failing to converse with one another and to the better route for Joseph Stack. We all go back to where we time and place we imagine to live as seen in our dreams will direct our attention to our relationships with each other, any were once before, and all those beautiful avant-garde dreams happen right here! Right now! Not in some faraway place. hope of forward movement as a society is sure to fail. Vio- of a new world will be exploited. The message will be lost in all Wake to reality, tune out the doublethink. The world as we lence has become more of a common occurrence; seen in the chaos and the people behind it will easily be forgotten as know it can start anew and it all begins with me and you.

Page 3 Editorial Let’s be Frank Gas prices: A Spring Break bummer By: Brian Engelman What is love? — Student per- that this type of love can have an effect on your When you think about Spring Break, you probably think about par- behavior and cognition. Romantic love may ties, beaches, and vacation, not RISING GAS PRICES! Unfortunately, the spective by Grethel Villalobos lead you to focus your attention on another price of gas has increased overall by 30 cents in 2010 and is now averaging person to promote their well-being and happi- $2.79 per gallon nation wide. Moreover, gas prices are expected to continue Many define it as an intense passion to rise as the Spring and Summer months approach. The gasoline market, ness. The down side is that you may experi- or feeling between two people that makes which is up more than 100% since bottoming near 35 dollars per barrel in them overly concerned for their well being and ence negative emotions as well, such as anxie- December 2008, has become the main culprit for the rising prices. Why has state of happiness. This may seem like a cog- ty, jealously anger, etc. In order for us for us to gas prices risen so much? Most traders blame a combination of traders antici- nitive definition, but it is just that; a definition. get to the heart of the matter and determine pating rising oil demand in Asia in 2010; and institutional investors' purchases what love is we must trace it back to its origins. of oil as an inflation hedge and as a hedge against a further weakening of the Love, in the opinion of many, varies dollar. The second major reason gas is beginning to rise is oil companies There are basically two schools of thought: one with age and experience. The tale of star- have decreased crude oil production. If this trend continues, gas prices crossed-lovers that are truly the definition of offers scientific explanations, the other offers should rise likely 10 to 20 cents per gallon. With the average gas prices in soul mates and meant for one another- is re- social explanations. The scientific school would Miami now at $2.72, our city is facing major problems due to its status as a Spring Break HOT SPOT. Therefore, if you are considering driving to your peated across the ages. Unfortunately, our argue that love is a biological process brought about by chemicals. In other words, it’s a trick northern destination or simply partying around town, before you plan your “fun current society gives the most credit to love in the sun”, consider choosing the cheapest gas. Here’s a list of the cheapest with experience. This means that the love that that Mother Nature uses to get us to reproduce. and most expensive gas stations around: two young people experience is often dis- I am not one to argue with science as our brain missed and overlooked. releases chemicals like pheromones, testos- Love between the ages of 13-18 is terone and estrogen, but anyone who has sat often ridiculed and underestimated because of through a romantic comedy knows there’s the irrational psychology that follows our age much more going on than just mere chemicals. group. But, if you’ve ever been in love at this There seems to be an elaborate plan promoted age, you can affirm that it is real and rational. by Stephanie Meyers, Nicholas Sparks, and Love is a hard subject to define. Love, the Hallmark Corporation. in my opinion, is many emotions wrapped into Enter the social explanation. This one. Love is scientifically defined as a biologi- school of thought argues that romantic love is a cal process brought about by chemicals. The social invention of Western culture to get us to same chemicals that are activated in the brain strive towards a purer, more idealized form of by eating chocolate; a trick that Mother Nature love. During the Middle Ages, for instance, invented in order for us to reproduce and sur- Knights would perform extraordinary feats of vive. And then there’s the social theory, one heroism to win a lady’s favor. Our culture pro- that states that we “love” to socially adapt, motes this type of thinking because despite the succeed and ultimately survive. fact that romantic love is the cause of much All of the above are fancy explana- heartache (and decapitation in St. Valentine’s tions pertaining mostly to the adult genre. case), it provides the social bonds necessary Teenagers are scrutinized on the subject of for our society to thrive. love because they are seen as overly emo- Both of these theories are correct, but tional, immature, and too irrational to control incomplete. There are many more theories out their feelings and thus, simply experiencing there, but most will likely fall under one of these lust or infatuation instead of love. two major theories. Ultimately, love is simply a As a teenager, I have to disagree as mystery that quite possibly will remain un- some of the greatest love stories ever written, solved for all time. Thus, proving the French are about characters whose ages fall within mathematician and philosopher Blaise Pascal the realm of teenagers. Romeo and Juliet correct when he said “The heart has it reasons, were pre-pubescent teenagers and their love which reason does not know.” and story are the icons of today’s romantic tales. Walt Whitman and other Romantic writers focused on the love of teenagers to concoct some of the most romantic poems in history. Today’s society, however, dismisses young love much too quickly because in our rational world, young love is just that-young. To anyone who has experienced love at this age, they know that their feelings are real, irrational, rational, emotional and truly wonderful. The way love should be- young at heart and mysterious to the rest of those who have yet to experience it. — Love is not breathlessness, it is not excite- ment, it is not the promulgation of promises of eternal passion. That is just being "in love" which any of us can convince ourselves we are. Love itself is what is left over when being in love has burned away, and this is both an art and a fortunate accident. -St. Augustine

Response — Frank Fernandez Before I answer this question, I will assume you are referring to the romantic love which is characterized by intense passion be- tween two people. It’s clear that this type of love is different from, let’s say, love for your family or love for your country. It is also clear Photo: courtesy of MSSH Yearbook Staff

Feature Page 4 Winter Guard: “Down the Rabbit Hole” and Drum line: “Prison Break”

[L-R] Top: Franklin Daniels, Edwin Salas, Andrew De La Rosa, Paola Castillo, [L-R] Top: Justice Rodriguez, Nicole Moreno, Matthew Lopez Logan Clough, and Miguel Villavicencio Middle: Ymaris Tejeda, Julia Bruni, Alondra Chuey, Andrea Rodriguez, Magda Bottom: Ariel Montecino, David Rodriguez, Kevin Rodriguez, Alexis Lopez, Fuentes, Cassandra Chuey, and Nicanor Ramos Marcus Rodriguez, Anthony Diaz, Steven Fadel, Christian Hernandez, and Jorge Bottom: Shadia Sierra, Priscilla Lopez, and Stephanie Menendez Villavicencio By: Ymaris Tejeda guard is usually an indoor activity. Our win- tion we were off to a great start by winning drum line. With numerous Saturday For those who may not know or ter guard this season has 15 members, 8 2nd place, but things went south when the camps and rehearsals during the school are interested in finding out, Winter guard of whom are brand new guard members. team finished in 5th place at the second week you can tell how far they have im- is guard without the marching band. It is MSSH’s color guard has won first place competition and in 6th place at Flanagan proved during this winter season. The just as physically demanding as any other awards in the state of Florida from 2005- high school. It is very competitive and the captains are Andrew De La Rosa, Antonio sport or dance, and has similar character- 2008 under the direction of Antonio Garcia, season proves to be a challenge as the Machado, and Kevin Rodriguez. Kevin istics to acting especially during the per- who is the main instructor and a 2005 judging becomes more critical. So far, the Rodriguez is also the drummer for the formance routines. Your whole body graduate of MSSH. Maria Villavicencio and adversity has not discouraged our winter local band The Skandals. This year’s moves in rhythmic motion along with the Daisy De La Rosa are the other instructors guard as they continue pushing forward theme is inspired by the show Prison equipment, dancing, and performance all of our school’s winter guard. The captains with their flags, rifles and sabres raised Break. Orlando Rodriguez has composed at once to show the audience what you’ve of this season’s winter guard is Julia Bruni, high. In a short couple of weeks, MSSH’s most of the music written for the winter been working for. The amount and type of Andrea Rodriguez, and Shadia Sierra. ‘It winter guard will no doubt demonstrate drum line. He is a 2006 Miami Springs equipment used in a performance routine takes a lot of hard work, determination, and improvement with their show during the High School alumnus. This season the depends on the skill of the performer and dedication to be a part of the guard’ says last two remaining competitions. drum line has competed in four competi- the difficulty of the routine. Flag, rifle, sa- the main instructor Antonio Garcia. This tions and only has one more at Barbara This season’s winter drum line th bre and sometimes other props are the season, the winter guard has competed in Goleman High school on March 27 . They +has had a promising season. With a only tangible objects the guard members three competitions thus far. In addition, are in the scholastic A class against eight team full of new members with loads of use while performing. Members pick their MSSH’s winter guard competes in the other winter percussion drum lines. Out of promising talent and a few old members th rd own music and discover their individuality scholastic class A against 8 other high the four they have won 4 place twice, 3 this season has been a rather successful nd away from the marching band. Winter school winter guards. In the first competi- place, and 2 place at Flannagan. MSSH leaves its mark on the Fairchild Challenge

By: Gisella Loffredo & Raydel Jimenez The Fairchild Challenge is an annual environmental education outreach program located at the Fairchild Topical Botanical Garden. The challenge is mostly for middle school and high school students. The stu- dents goals are to research and critically evaluate environmental topics, allowing them to perceive nature in a more profound man- ner. This challenge encourages students to appreciate the aesthetical beauty and value of nature, developing critical-thinking skills and understanding the need for conserva- tion. They become actively engaged student citizens and recognize the fact that individu- als can make a difference. We would like to honor Mrs. Campbell and her students for their respective works of art concerning edi- [L-R] Sandra Pego, Karina Quintana, Daniel Febres, and Erick Chade. ble plants. For their watercolor piece, Sandra Pego(10th) and Karina Quintana(9th) re- ceived Honorable Mention. Daniel Febres (12th) and Erick Chade (12th) also received Honorable Mention for their Photo Essay.

Karina Quintana Photos/Images courtesy of Ms. Campbell [L-R] Stephanie D’Andelet, Scott Bryson, Stephanie D’Andelet and Scott Bryson & Juliana Martinez. They received honor- strut their stuff at this year’s Fairchild able mentions for their wardrobe de- Sandra Pego Challenge. GO HAWKS! signs.

Page 5 Living

Facebook: Online sensation

By: Elise Mesa Today, users can join numerous has 2,575,962 fans (as of 2/21/10) or “I make you think you know how your networks, organized by city, workplace, can’t stand writing on paper with pen if the friends are, what they've been up to and This online social network has school and region, to stay in touch with paper is just on the desk” is approaching how they're feeling, but in reality, you more than 400 million active users around virtually anybody. Facebook allows the 600,000. Many groups are started to unite have done little more than receive auto- the world and 110 million in the United user to upload photos or videos, add fans of movies, bands or artists, and some mated news reports and you haven’t spo- States alone, exceeding it’s once compet- friends, post status updates or comment are just for fun, as MSSH sophomore and ken to them personally in however long. A ing social network, MySpace. What began on other peoples, write on a friend’s wall Zeitgeist writer, Daniel Tilton, knows when status update is not the same as a quick as a small online community in 2004 for (or user profile), send email-like messag- he created his own fan group, titled “Chino phone call. Many could Harvard University students, soon caught es, join or create groups, send or receive is awesome club.... :D”. (understandably) consider the site as an the attention of numerous other universi- virtual invitations and use a variety of ap- Some would claim that facebook is easy stalking tool, with constantly updated ties and eventually the entire world. At the plications and games. extremely overrated. An article in TIME information. This leads to Facebook’s pri- beginning stages, Facebook only focused Facebook is a way for many to magazine claimed it was losing its buzz vacy policy. The site has made privacy on high school and college students. get the word out concerning events, busi- after six years, quoting ”‘It's like a high customizable to each user, to allow them Since then, Facebook has surpassed ex- nesses, and even rela- school dance,’ says Max to have whatever information public or pectations of creators and become what tionship statuses. Creat- Levchin, CEO of Slide, a top private to other users. This also points out most would consider an internet phenom- ing a facebook event and maker of image-based applica- that users should only add friends that enon. sending out a mass invi- tions for social networks. they know or have some connection with. Facebook started off as a joke by tation to your entire ‘Everyone shows up and no- As students quickly approaching “the real then Harvard sophomore Mark Zucker- friends’ list, or specific body does anything, because world”, and majority Facebook users, we berg in 2003. Initially calling it friends is a fast and effi- there's nothing to do.’” An in- need to be careful of what we post. “Facemash”. Zuckerberg had hacked into cient way of informing creasing amount of people are Whether its photos, posts or joining inap- the university's computer system where them of what’s happen- deleting their accounts because propriate groups, because you never he downloaded pictures of other students ing. Our schools’ clubs it interferes with their social know who’s reading. Some colleges are to create a "Hot or Not" style web site. take full advantage of lives or with work, but that de- requesting facebook urls on applications Then he invited browsers to rate the pho- this, sending out invita- pends on the individual. Face- in attempt to really know who they are tos on their attractiveness. The site was tions for sport games, dance performanc- book could add a sense of social anxiety, accepting, or based on a discriminating immediately shut down, but this sparked es or volunteering opportunities. with the amount of friends you have or the post, who they are denying. The same his idea for a new website, more similar to popularity of friends you associate with. could happen concerning your job and What I have found to be incredi- today’s Facebook. He set up a site that The ability to rate your friends with “Top whether you continue to have one. All an bly popular (and at times annoying) on allowed Harvard students to upload their Friends” adds an awkwardness to friend- employer has to do is type your name in a this social network is the joining of own photos and personal information. ships. You can also broadcast a friend- search engine and your facebook account groups, which recently seem to bombard Within months, Facebook had become so hierarchy or an ordering of how close you will come up. So, it’s best to be cautious homepages. As I read these group popular that other colleges were being are to people, which may not be mutual at with every post and consider how they names, they appear more and more relat- included, and money began to be made all times. If you consider one friend as your could be interpreted. Anyone able and the “become a fan” button be- on advertisements and big business second closest friend, how would you feel can join, all you need is a valid email ad- comes more and more tempting, and mil- names were becoming investors, such as if they considered you their tenth closest dress and you are set. You can connect lions of others users can agree. For in- the founder of PayPal, Peter Thiel. By the friend? That’s the kind of information that with classmates, coworkers or friends in- stance, one group “I redo high fives if end of its first year, Facebook had ex- should remain unspoken, for the sake of stantly. they weren't good enough the first time” ceeded one million users. the friendship. Facebook can also tend to Spring Break Tragedy at the Winter Olympics

By: Jorge Gonzalez yellow flag – means caution, some un- By Daniel Tilton athlete Bree Schaaf. “That’s where it gets dertow and possible rip tide; blue flag – scary. The track is so technical, that Safety becomes an issue when it On Friday February 12, 2010, the indicates calm waters. If by any chance even Armin Zoeggeler, the worlds’ num- comes to Spring Break and for many stu- much anticipated Winter Olympics finally you get caught in a rip current swim par- ber one ranked luger also crashed during dents, Spring Break means parties, hang- arrived in Vancouver Canada. The hopes allel to the shore not towards it, until the a practice run. ing with friends, chilling by the pool and and dreams of over two thousand Olympic rip current passes. If you’re leaving the The entire Georgian Olympic having fun. Some of the things that can be athletes from over eighty different countries country you’ll need a passport and real- team wore black arm bands during the done to stay safe during this week of par- filled the cold Canadian winter air as the ize that if you are renewing your passport opening ceremonies in order to honor tying is driving safely, always buckling up, games approached. One of these aspiring it will take about six months for you to their fellow athlete. Georgian figure skater and taking turns when driving. If you’re athletes was twenty-one year old Georgian receive it. Also, don’t take any flashy jew- Otar Japaridze exclaimed, “This is the staying at a hotel, get a room between the luger Nodar Kumaritashvili. Kumaritashvili elry and dress conservatively so you lowest but at the same time highest point first and sixth floors, mainly because the died in a very unfortunate and tragic luge don’t stick out too much. And do your in our careers.” “We will try to show our first floor rooms are easiest to get broken accident during a training run just hours homework about your destination and best performance.” into and rooms above the fifth floor maybe prior to the opening ceremony. It was esti- keep in mind that you are subject to the too high for a fire ladder to reach. While at mated that at the moment of impact Ku- laws of the country you visit. If you plan the beach, always take your sunscreen maritashvili was traveling at an estimated on taking a cruise, stick with your friends with you, make sure that it is at least SPF ninety miles per hour. He was killed in- and/or family and watch your pockets as 15 or higher and pay attention to your stantly. there are many cases of people being ears, nose, face, and shoulders. Always Prior to the crash, Kumaritashvili pick pocketed by island residents who remember that even though it may be was rumored to of told his father that he prey on tourists. So remember, watch out cloudy outside you can still get a serious was terrified of the Whistler track where the and keep your guard up, and you’ll no sunburn. If you go for a swim keep an eye luge division of the Olympics was to be doubt have a safe and fun Spring Break. on the lifeguards tower and know the flag held. The Whistler Sliding Centre is notori- system. Red flag –means stay out of the ous for its high speeds, and is regarded by water due to strong undertow and rip tide; many to be the fastest sliding track in the world. Before Kumaritashvili, a Romanian woman was knocked unconscious after crashing on the track, along with four other Get ready Miami Americans who later crashed on the track all during practice runs. Springs! The Many track officials and lugers alike were concerned about the safety of Recreational the track even prior to the accident, mainly only because of its recognition as the fast- est track in the world. The Whistler track in “REC” Center is its fastest section enables lugers to hit speeds up to ninety-three miles per hour- opening six miles per hour faster than the previous record. “Once you hit top speed it gets April 8, 2010. really technical,” said United States Luge Courtesy of Bing.com

Sports Page 6

Miami Springs will Water Polo deeply miss #2 By: Shalimar Jackson Miami Springs Senior High will deeply miss our three starting players, re- ceiver Willis Wright, linebacker Randy Wil- Football liams, and kicker Rodrigo Hernandez, Photo: Yessenia DePaz Football Photo: Yessenia DePaz come graduation day. We have not taken a Willis Wright #2 Randy Williams #45 huge loss like this since TY Hilton graduat- By: Molly Poorman ed two years ago. Willis Wright has been After starting off slowly and slight- Age: 18 Age:18 honing his excellent football skills for the ly behind schedule, our Miami Springs Position: Wide Receiver #2 Position: Linebacker Hawks since the first day he stepped on Water Polo team is back for a new year! the football field. He has been pursuing G.P.A.: 2.30 After having a tough start trying to find a G.P.A.: 2.30 football since he was nine years old. team sponsor and a place to practice Willis Wright received a full paid Randy received a full paid “Through my career in football, my mother (since our local pool is under construc- scholarship to Florida Interna- and sister have been a big motivation. tion), the team seems to be ready for a scholarship to Florida Interna- tional University (F.I.U.), Tami- tional University (F.I.U.), Tami- They have always made sure I stay fo- busy season. After completing their first ami Campus. He is hanging his ami Campus. Randy is still un- cused and never let me give up”, Willis game on February 18, 2010, against Bar- hawk helmet to become a pan- quoted. bara Goleman Senior High, the Hawks ther. He is looking into studying decided as to a specific Major, but we have faith in him and Willis just recently signed to F.I.U. finished on the losing end with the girls’ Business Management. over University of West Virginia, and at the hope he’ll make his final deci- team falling 13-5 and the boys’ team los- signing ceremony it was clear to see that it ing 8-7. This loss was a bit predictable Quote: “Work hard and never sion when he’s ready. give up.” was a hard choice. “I choose F.I.U. over because this game was the first time the Quote: “Just looking in the door those other schools to prove people wrong. teams had been in the water. After the Facts: Senior year - 677 Yards way where success is only a Everyone has been saying that I won’t get game, I had a chance to catch up with - received 10 touchdowns step way.” notice playing there, I believe otherwise”. returning starter Emily Scott. “I don’t feel Statistics: Senior year won 1st Everyone could see how his career really bad about losing because we had virtually Facts: Senior year all star in All team in All-Dade; Junior year meant a lot to him because he was over- no experience in the water before the won 2nd team in All-Dade. -Dade but didn’t play due to a whelmed with tears on signing day. He game. I believe we did a lot better than injury. stated that his family felt really well about everybody thought we would”. Statistics: Sr. year 65 tackles his choice. They are just happy to see him As for the boys who enjoy a bit getting the chance to attend college and more experience with returning starters he was also leading tackles for 4 games in a row. going after his goal. TY Hilton is also a Joey Swidarski, Gabe Perez, Marcos Za- member of F.I.U.’s football team so we are balla, and Alejandro and Adrian Artega hoping once the two reunite they will be- the team did better than expected having come a power house! “I’m very excited to an upsetting loss, winning all the way up play with TY again. I believe him and I are until the last quarter. With some more really going to make something happen at practice, the boy’s team will surely be on F.I.U.’’ Sounds like fireworks to this re- top. Hopefully, after some more practice porter. and time in the water, both teams will be I caught up with Willis later and able to finish on top. The Rec Center pool asked. “What do you have to say to all the should be finished in the next couple haters”? He simply replied, “I have nothing weeks after suffering from a minor water to say to them. They’re not worth my in- leak, and the team could begin using our put”. Spoken like a true competitor. “Come local pool once again. I thoroughly en- Football Photo: Yessenia DePaz Soccer Photo: Shalimar Jackson graduation day, I am really going to miss courage all students to go out to the pool Springs. My favorite teachers like, Mr. Ran- and support your fellow Hawks Water Po- Rodrigo Hernandez #15 Dallas Carter #22 dolph and Mrs. Wolfson, my coaches, and lo team. Let’s try and make their season a Age: 18 Age: 17 all my friends.” Although we will be losing a great one! What’s better than watching a great student and football player, we still game by the water and in the sun.. Position: Punter/Kicker Position: Center-Midfield are very proud of him, wish him the best, and can’t wait to see him playing for F.I.U. G.P.A.: 2.95 G.P.A.: 3.0 SPRING SPORTS Rodrigo got a full paid scholar- Dallas got a full paid scholar- ship to Hampton University in ship to Nova University where SCHEDULE Virginia where he wants to she plans on studying physical study Sports Management or therapy. She is listed in the ros- Criminology. He is all ready ter for 2011 as a freshman and BADMINTON listed on the roster of 2011 as a will either be playing in the cen- freshman in the position of tral midfield or left midfield posi- BASEBALL Punter/Kicker. LACROSSE tion. Quote: “Bring your best game Quote: “Second to no one.” SOFTBALL everyday.” Facts: All-Dade three years in TENNIS nd Facts: Junior year - 2 in the a row. TRACK & FIELD county. Statistics: 72 goals in and 66 VOLLEYBALL Statistics: 90% of his kickoffs assists in the past three years; WATER POLO were touchbacks; 55-60 on Ex- not including sophomore year. tra points; 4-7 on field goals; averaged 42 yards a punt over Please see the athletics the past 3 years. office for further details. Photo: Shalimar Jackson

Page 7 Entertainment Game Review: Film Review:

By: Raydel Jimenez The plot of Final Fantasy XIII takes place in a world known as Pulse and revolves around the story of the fal'Cie,, mechanical beings with godlike powers created from crystals residing in- side them. People who are marked by the fal'Cie for greater purposes are called l'Cie,. Each l'Cie has a Focus, a goal the fal'Cie wants him or her to fulfill within a certain amount of time; however, the fal'Cie does not explicitly say what the goal is: l'Cie learn what their Focus is by interpreting visions that are given to them. L'Cie gain the ability to summon Eidolons (monsters who fight with the l'Cie), but this ability comes with a price: if a l'Cie dies before completing his or her Focus, fails to tame his or her Eidolon, or fails to com- plete his or her Focus within a set period of time, he or she becomes a monster Courtesy of Bing.com known as a Cie'th. If a l'Cie does com- playing world. The Active Time Battle do, Ravager, Sentinel, Synergist, Sabo- plete his or her Focus, the reward is not (ATB) system will return, but it will work teur and Medic, respectively. Each char- much better: permanent transformation differently from its predecessors. Users acter may only take on one role at a time, Courtesy of Bing.com into a crystal. For this reason, being cho- will be able to chain large numbers of and each combination of three Roles for a sen as a l'Cie is seen as a curse. By: Raydel Jimenez commands together in order to achieve given party is called a "Paradigm." In this re-reimagining of Lewis The concept for Final Fantasy attack bonuses. These commands in- Final Fantasy has formulated a Carroll's original stories Alice Kingsley, XIII's battle system is to maintain the stra- clude series staples such as Attack, Fire, reputation through their enriching story- now 19, attends a party at a Victorian tegic nature of command-based combat. Blizzard and Cure, as well as new ones telling, striking visuals, deep combat me- estate shortly after the death of her be- Battles do not take place in the same such as Ruin, and Radial Strike. The chanics and a musical score that is widely loved father. The formal affair, unbe- "dimension", instead there is a short tran- "Role" system exists in order to control recognizable. I’d give it a thirteen out of knownst to Alice, is an engagement party sition and players are transported to a what abilities are available to characters ten if my scale would allow it, however I’ll planned by her mother and sister. Just new battle screen, separate from the main in battle. These roles include; Comman- settle for a respectable X (10 out of10). as the arrogant and boorish Lord Hamish Ascot proposes to Alice under a gazebo and before the eyes of hundreds of snooty society-types, Alice spots a white Music: rabbit wearing a waistcoat and pocket watch. In shock and confusion, she runs Recently Released / Upcoming Albums 2010 off into a maze and follows the White Date Artist Rabbit through it. She eventually tumbles January 5 Kesha & Katherine Mcphee Animal Unbroken down a rabbit hole into Underland, more January 12 Vampire Weekend, , Heidi Montag, Contra Superficial Ghosts on the Boardwalk commonly referred to as "Wonderland" The Bouncing Souls & Ok Go Of the Blue Colour of the Sky by its inhabitants. It turns out she had January 19 Cold War Kids & Motion City Soundtrack Behave Yourself My Dinosaur Life visited this place ten years earlier but had entirely forgotten about it. She then January 26 Playradioplay! Magentic Fields Besides, Nothing Realism reunites with her childhood friends, in- February 2 Rebirth cluding the Mad Hatter, who explains to February 14 Angels & Airwaves Love Alice that they need her help in over- February 16 Story of the Year The Constant throwing the Red Queen. This evil char- February 23 Alkaline Trio, The Rocket Summer & Johnny This Addiction The Rocket Summer American VI: acter has taken control of Wonderland Cash Ain’t No Grave from her benevolent sister, the White March 2 Jason Derülo, Dj Khaled & Lifehouse Jason Derülo Victory Smoke and Mirrors Queen. Alice is also told that she is the March 9 Ludacris Battle of the Sexes only one who can wield the Vorpal Sword March 16 Chamillionaire & Flobots Venom Survival Story and slay the Jabberwock, the dragon March 30 Madonna, Mariah Carey & Usher Sticky and Sweet Angels Advocate Raymond vs. who terrorizes the inhabitants of Wonder- Raymond land under the rule of the Red Queen. April 6 Cypress Hill Rise up Alice then embarks on an adventure of self-discovery in the process of saving April 13 Bleeding Through & Coheed and Cambria Bleeding Through Year of the Black Rainbow Wonderland and her friends there from April 16 Jennifer Lopez Love both the Jabberwock and the Red April 20 Heavy Heavy Low Low Hospital Bomber EP Queen's reign of terror. April 27 Hole Nobody’s Daughter

Upcoming Films: March 5 Alice in Wonderland The Secret of Kells Brooklyn’s Finest March 12 Our Family Wedding Remember Me She’s Out of My League Green Zone Stolen The Exploding Girl March 19 Diary of a Wimpy Kid City Island The Bounty Hunter The Runaways March 26 Chloe Hot Tub Time Machine I Love You Phillip Morris The Eclipse Waking Up Sleeping Beauty March 31 The Last Song April 2 Clash of the Titans Tyler Perry’s Why did I get married too? Warlords April 9 Date night April 22 Oceans April 23 Death at a Funeral The Back-Up Plan The Losers April 30 A Nightmare on Elm Street Have a fun and safe Spring Break Miami Springs!

Advisor Raydel Jimenez The Zeitgeist is the official publication of Miami Springs Senior High School, 751 Dove Avenue, Miami Springs, FL Mrs. Annia Karlick Gisella Loffredo 33166. Call (305) 885-3585. It was established as an open forum for student expression and is published by the journal- Editors Timothy Labrada ism students for the entire student body. The opinions expressed in this publication are not neces- Editor-In-Chief – Elise Mesa Amanda Plasencia sarily those of the faculty and administration but rather those of News Editor – Grethel Villalobos Brian Engelman the author or the newspaper staff and its editors. The Zeitgeist welcomes letters to the editor on topics of interest to MSSH Features Editor – Ymaris Tejeda Jorge Gonzalez and its surrounding community. Letters must be signed; how- ever, names may be withheld upon request and with the con- Business Managers Layout Specialists currence of the editorial board. Letters may be e-mailed to [email protected].

Ads Manager – Jorge Gonzalez Gisella Loffredo The editorial board reserves the right to reject, edit or shorten letters. We also welcome contributions from writers Business Manager – Yessenia not associated with the newspaper staff. All freelance material De Paz should be submitted to room 113. All submissions must bear Graphic Specialists the author’s name. Staff Writers Raydel Jimenez The Zeitgeist accepts all legal advertisements. If a mis- take occurs, it will be reprinted, free of charge, in the following Kierra Haywood issue. Yessenia De Paz Press Affiliations Daniel Tilton Columbia Scholastic Press Association

Jemina Richardson Florida Scholastic Press Association Shalimar Jackson Quill and Scroll Principal– Mr. Thomas Ennis Molly Poorman