News with a Bite! March 2021

Park Vista Community High School, 7900 Jog Road, Lake Worth, Fla. 33467 Volume XVII, Issue III

State parks, Pgs. 12-13

Anime, Pg. 16

Women score in sports, Pg. 25

Photo courtesy of PVCHS Twitter Index 3 Publisher: Cobra Life Mr. Reginald Myers Written in ink...... 3 Adviser: Cobras stay fit...... 4 Ms. Cynthia Glazier Virtual meetings...... 4 Honor societies...... 5 Senior staff members: “Love Serving Autism” program....5 Aliyana Vasquez: Editor-In-Chief Hayden Swergold: Managing editor Vaccinated Cobras...... 6 Cary Tendrich: Production manager College prep...... 6 Noam Bernstein: Business manager Exams...... 7 Madison Barganier: Copy editor Cobra Congrats!...... 8 Fernando Matamoros: Sports editor Mental health...... 9 Features 10 Staff writers: Emily Cobb Daniel McDonald King Chess...... 10 Leo Fergenson Kaileigh Pinta History highlights...... 11 Joshua Foreman Kayla Shim Entertainment 12 Carly Siedman Florida parks...... 12-13 Artists change...... 14 Quick Bites...... 15 Letter from the Editor Celebrity lookalikes...... 15 The Cobra Chronicle is an expressive platform for students to share their points of view Best animes...... 16 while also providing an accurate representation of Kai’s cooking corner...... 17 events at Park Vista. Our staff aims to add his/her own innovative thinking to each article published. Upcoming movies...... 17 Our design scheme has evolved greatly from previous years. We hope our paper is more News 18 interactive and pleases the faculty and student body’s diverse interests. Our staff has taken the Environmental policies...... 18 initiative to find creative ways to share content amid the pandemic. In Cobra Country, we are Feeding South Florida...... 18 still a community even though some of us are Tone indicators...... 19 at home. Any opinion displayed is the opinion of 20 the student and does not represent Park Vista Opinion as a whole. We aim to tell the truth and provide Google Meets vs. Zoom...... 20-21 unbiased information in every article. Comments and questions are welcomed by the staff. Thank Oh, so typical!...... 22 you, and we hope you enjoy this edition. Hulu’s mistake...... 23 Sports 24 Mourning lost athletes...... 24 Cheer champions...... 24 Editor-in-Chief Women on the field...... 25 Girls bowling...... 26 2 | About Us March 2021

Cobras, written in ink BY MADISON BARGANIER Copy editor Some students groan when they hear the word “writing” because essays come to mind. Others, however, find having a pen in hand (or keyboard on desk) to be a comfort. Senior Hannah Flanders, is one of the latter. Flanders got into story writing by reading a variety of stories growing up; she wanted to come up with her own fantasy worlds. Story writing in her eyes is truly a one-of-a-kind adventure. “Sometimes, there is more truth in fiction than reality and one can apply the lessons they learn to real life,” she said. With story writing, characters are heavily relied

on to get the author’s message across to the reader. Sam Lafebre of courtesy Photo They can be challenging to write realistically as humans Sam Lafebre plans to publish his second are complex, so Flanders starts her process by taking self-written EP, I love you, I love you not, in the beauty of the good and bad in life. “The world soon. His first EP,just me, are available on inspires me because it is the greatest story ever told,” Spotify and iTunes. she said. “All the struggles that I go through, and all the ones I see consequently, are all the inspiration I mistakes when writing music. What you may originally will ever need.” think are mistakes can lead to something cool in the Story writing is a lot more freeing than typical instrumentals or the vocals.” essay writing, and it tends to give authors a sense of Another PV writer is senior Kirsten Rodas. Her comfort and control. Flanders believes one of the best genre is poetry. Poetry is a very open and free verse things about it is how there is no absolute commitment. type of writing, varying from a deep thought to a giddy She said, “Someone could start writing, get a feel, and haiku, and many enjoy this open and expressive style. then stop. It is perfect for quick expression of thought “With poetry,” she said, “I have freedom to think outside without anything permanent.” Her favorite part about of the box and create new and unique ways to share story writing, however, is the satisfaction and sense of my thoughts and emotions. I believe that words are accomplishment elicited from ending a story. “The rush powerful, and I like being creative with them.” of satisfaction, the ‘look what I have created’ once it is Writing in such a varied style also can be beneficial all said and done is worth any struggles it took to get to students school-wise as it helps writers learn new there,” she said. types of diction and transcends basic vocabulary. Junior Sam Lafebre has been into music his “Poetry makes it easier for me to understand the whole life, so when he learned to play an instrument meaning of whatever I read, and I am able to perform and understood more about music, he decided to write better in my English class,” Rodas said. “This is because his own songs. Like Flanders, Lafabre finds writing to it has helped me to value every word that an author be impactful, therapeutic and a way to help handle chooses within whatever genre I come across.” Poetry stressful things in life. “Writing lets me truly express is also a good way to cope mentally; it is another form myself,” he said. “There's no word count or topic. It's just of healthy self expression. “I experience a big relief free writing about me or about how I'm feeling about the whenever I’m able to get my feelings and thoughts down world around me.” His writing process is self-described on paper. On a personal level, poetry has contributed as “kind of all over the place”, but he believes the to self healing and mental growth for myself. I am able process of writing from personal experience helps one to express everything going on in my mind and then get a better feel for how the song should sound. release it out into song or poems,” she said. Rodas Lafebre was not planning on sharing his music recommends giving poetry a try as it is important to at first. After some feedback and support, however, he have an outlet to express oneself. She dreams of one decided he wanted to be another source people could day sharing her works with others. find comfort in. Lafebre said he “originally released [his] Such dreams are realistic. Park Vista alumni songs to let people know they aren't alone with their Annalise Wellman is an example of this, already having thoughts and feelings because [he] understands some published two poetry books. “I remember holding my of their situations and hopes [his] music can help them first book in my hands for the first time and crying the when they just need a nice song to either cry to or just happiest tears of my life,” she said. “Yes, there were have it in the background to calm down.” issues along the way, but it turned out to be everything I “My favorite parts of songwriting are knowing could have ever dreamed of.” that it's truly me and my words that people want to hear,” said Lafebre. “I also love how there are no Cobra Life | 3 Virtual meetings bring people together BY HAYDEN SWERGOLD the theme of the party. For instance, if the theme Managing editor of the party is “under the sea”, guests can set their During the coronavirus pandemic many background to something ocean related. turned to video conferencing applications in order to Breakout rooms are another prominent keep friends and kin close while maintaining social feature on zoom which can be used to help guests of distancing. Zoom, previously a popular application meeting mingle and connect as a limited number of for video conferences and school, is now dominating people are in each room. The use of this feature allows get-togethers as well. According to Business of Apps, people to get to know others in the meeting be er. now more than 300 million people have started using There are endless amounts of activities in the grand Zoom a month. Prior to the pandemic, Zoom averaged scheme of virtual parties. less than 10 million meetings a day. In part this is Zoom meetings can still possess that special because Zoom o ers an interactive and engaging way flare found when celebrating special occasions. Junior to celebrate birthdays, holidays and special occasions Allie Licciardi used Zoom in order to talk to her friends together without endangering the health of individuals. on her birthday. “Using Zoom allowed me to talk to my Some of Zoom’s functions include: screen closest friends while preventing the risk of anybody sharing, whiteboard and virtual backgrounds. These ge ing sick,” Licciardi said. “Talking to my friends on functions are utilized in order to take part in activities Zoom gives me a sense of normality because we all felt as a group. The participants can take part in watch like we were together.” parties by using the screen sharing tool. The only Zoom has allowed for individuals to stay in requirement is one member has to have access to the touch with groups that would have met physically had movie or TV show the group is interested in watching. the pandemic not occurred. Junior Rebecca Zilberman Pictionary and other wri en games can be has a leadership position for a Jewish youth group that played with the whiteboard feature by dividing the now meets weekly for programming, virtually. “Zoom members of the party into teams and encouraging was able to keep the momentum we had in person and competition. The annotation tool on Zoom allows it is always a great time connecting with one another,” participants to write on the whiteboard with select she said. “Zoom is a reminder of the hardships that tools. Users can also participate in competitions by came with the pandemic and how fortunate we are to voting for the winner in the chat or a poll. have advanced technology in order to stay connected.” Zoom also has a unique feature called “virtual Zoom meetings could be the new normal until the background” which allows users to select an image pandemic begins to see be er days. Until then, from their device to display behind them. Virtual individuals can interact with friends virtually from the backgrounds are useful when trying to comply with comfort of their own home while staying safe. Cobras stay fi t during quarantine BY CARY TENDRICH encourage fitness. great turn outwhile they are live, they Production manager Established a er provide teachers with an adequate Thanksgiving 2020, the Cobra Fitness avenue to channel their motivation Staying active and avoiding Club o ers up various exercises into worthy exercise. a sedentary lifestyle are sometimes such as band, strength and ab Live participation in the club di icult tasks for many people, workouts, yoga and cardios although is lower than what was expected, but especially given the current COVID-19 the physical itinerary changes administrators are currently exploring state of the world. Technology, which weekly. The meets take place on ways to increase the participation is o en viewed as a catalyst of an Wednesdays or Thursdays from 4 - 5 and overall interaction. “Our live inactive lifestyle, is proving to be the p.m. Socialization is encouraged and participation has been low, so we spiritual and physical savior of many. promoted during these meets, but have invited those teachers that The newly formed Cobra not how it would normally be. These do participate to join our Special Fitness Club at Park Vista Community Meets are not a ended when the Olympics Virtual Fitness Club that will High School keeps teachers and teachers and faculty members are at begin next week,” Gilbert said at the other faculty members active by school, but rather at teachers’ homes end of January. By sending invitations hosting weekly Google Meets that as that is the safest option. to participating teachers, the amount allow for exercising and socialization. “There are teachers who of total a endees could very well The meetings are hosted by Venom participate in sessions live and others see an upward trend, increasing Vision instructor and Special who participate during other times the fitness and welfare of teachers Olympics coach Stephanie Gilbert of the day when they are available who are in hopes of breaking the alongside ESE teacher Randi (we record each session),” Gilbert pandemic’s limitations. Meshognek. Both instructors said. Even if the sessions do not get a 4 | Cobra Life March 2021 Honor societies stay involved BY ALIYANA VASQUEZ scheduling meetings has been Despite these challenges, Editor-in-chief di icult because Park Vista now has however, honor society members two lunches. Therefore, the only are still staying involved. Danielle Discovering ways to keep meeting time convenient for her Haber, advisor of English honor honor society members actively and the students is before school. society, said “We are lucky to have involved has been a challenge “Many students are ge ing up at a very organized student leadership during the pandemic. As part of the last possible moment since board. They communicate many an honor society, students must they are not physically coming into times during the month with active maintain a certain GPA, volunteer school, so these kids just watch membership.” a specific number of hours and the recording of the meeting in our Matyskiel said similar participate in other activities the Google Classroom,” said Titcomb. things about the members of society requires. Since this year Unfortunately, it is harder to tell if National honor society, noting is so unique, advisors have had to students pay a ention to online that though it has been di icult adapt to make membership less of meetings, especially if they were to do certain activities, they a burden. absent. Titcomb said, “We usually have done their best to continue Some honor societies have have close to 100% participation in be ering the community. “We had to change their requirements our monthly meetings between the wrote two checks for $1,000.00 due to quarantine, most notably the morning and lunch. Currently about each a er members voted for amount of community service hours 60-75% are a ending the Google the organizations they wanted to members have to do. Originally the Meets. Hopefully, the rest are donate to,” said Matyskiel. “We also amount of hours needed for English watching the recordings.” initiated a le er-writing campaign honor society was eight, and now Similar problems have (and artwork) to the sta /frontline members only have to do five. Lori been seen in other societies as well, workers at JFK Medical Center.” Matyskiel, advisor of National honor since most students are having Though it has been society, said since some students similar issues with scheduling challenging to stay physically “are just really housebound”, the and balancing extracurriculars. active during the pandemic, Park society “only required five hours of Junior Rydon Budney, president of Vista’s honor societies have still community service instead of our Spanish honor society, said, “The managed to do great things and [their] usual 10 hours required per new lack of interaction isn’t able overcome these obstacles. Through semester.” to keep people as focused as they technology and member dedication, Nellie Titcomb, advisor used to be, and not everyone can be these societies are still able to help of Mu Alpha Theta, also known available at all times so it requires a and heal the community in these as math honor society, said bit of flexibility to get around.” troubling times. PV honored for its “Love Serving Autism” program

BY CARLY SIEDMAN Staff writer Park Vista was honored with the Community Engagement of Volunteers Award for inspiring community service through innovative programs. The award is sponsored by Horace Mann and the Florida Association of Partners in Education. According to the Florida Association of Partners in Education, which is a non-profit organization commi ed to enhancing student learning through constructing and maintaining productive community and school partnerships, the Community Engagement of Volunteers Award “reflects innovative programs or partnerships that can be a model to increase engagement in other school districts.” Each year, schools are nominated to earn this award. Park Vista was honored alongside Gove Elementary, with a $500 check for its “Love Serving Autism” program, allowing students to participate in sports and other activities during this di icult time. The funding will ensure more participation occurs in the future. Principal Reginald Myers, who accepted the award on behalf of the school’s program said, “It is so important to have people like Horace Mann and other organizations rally around education to continue to help us do the work that we want to get done in our schools.” Park Vista volunteer coordinator, Arnie Rich, said “to see the students run out to the tennis courts; it brings tears to my eyes.” These students participated in therapeutic tennis instruction prior to the pandemic occurring, so this award will aid in allowing these students to resume sports and other activities they enjoy. Park Vista has really strived to create an environment for students to partake in events they love, especially in the safest way possible during this time. The school has worked hard to maintain an inclusive environment allowing students and sta to remain active and engaged. Cobra Life | 5 Cobras get vaccinated BY NOAM BERNSTEIN it. Palmer said the shot, which taking a vaccine developed in such Business manager he received at Miami Children’s a short time, however most major As of March 2021, more Hospital, was “quick, easy, and health authorities have approved than 2 million worldwide have died painless.” Besides some minor and recommend taking the Pfrizer, from COVID-19, with the U.S. leading stiffness in his arm, Palmer said he Moderna, and Johnson & Johnson in cases. While it is hard to say find was feeling great the day after. “It vaccines. According to the Mayo positives about the past year, there feels good that I have a little less Clinic, “The emergency situation is a light at the end of the tunnel. In things to worry about now.” of the pandemic warranted an December 2020, Pfizer and Moderna Media assistant Dawn Bahr emergency response but that does began distributing their coronavirus received her first dose March 1 at not mean companies bypassed vaccines to the world and in late Publix. “The experience with this safety protocols or didn’t perform February, the FDA approved a vaccination isn’t so different from adequate testing.” vaccine from Johnson & Johnson. any other (vaccination),” Bahr said. “I’m not sure why someone Receiving the vaccine has become Besides some arm soreness, she would be unsure about the vaccine, somewhat of an honor for many. It did not feel any significant pain or because it is only helping,” Palmer has become standard for politicians side affects afterwards. Bahr said, said. Bahr agreed, emphasizing the and celebrities to post photos of “I did not anticipate the tremendous need to trust science. themselves receiving their shot as a feeling of sheer relief”, now that she Each day, more and more sign to the public that it is safe and is more safe than she was before. people are receiving a COVID-19 reliable. People smile at the sight of The pandemic has changed vaccine, and the return to “normality” a vaccine card, showing we are one how people live, including Palmer inches closer. While initially only step closer to normality. and Bahr. While there is still a long available to the elderly, the option Junior Jake Palmer received way to go before normality, Bahr to get the vaccine is opening up to his first dose of the vaccine Feb. 18. is looking forward to “hugging my other at risk groups, and soon to the As a diabetic, he was deemed “at (her) friends and family without first general population. risk” and got priority as one of the thinking of the potential danger.” first teenagers eligible to receive Some feel skeptical about Covid-friendly ways to prep for college BY KAILEIGH PINTA Koons took a weekend to tour across the state to visit Staff writer schools: FSU, UCF, UF and USF. Sanchez said, “When The time to plan for college is approaching for I was touring, I was most excited about a different juniors and seniors, and a useful way to help narrow university, but then I saw my older brother at University of down choices is to visit college campuses. The spread of Florida. He and his friends showed me around, and made COVID-19, however, has caused many schools me really excited to potentially attend there to cancel on-campus visits. for college.” Florida Gulf Coast University, a Connections to college students remote location with a small campus, is can be a resourceful for learning about offering frequent tours because it is easy different universities. Reach out via text or to safely socially distance. Other Florida social media to ask for insight on his/her campuses such as University of Central university. Most college kids are happy to Florida (UCF), University of North Florida (UNF) give a prospective student a glimpse into and University of South Florida (USF) are campus life and answer questions. There are offering tours too, but are booking up quickly other options for gaining info as well. because of the limited spots. Florida Atlantic CollegiateParent.com recommends, “If Photo courtesy of Venessa Sanchez courtesy of Venessa Photo University (FAU) is offering in-person tours Juniors Sanchez, Koons you’re tight on time and money, or COVID-19 once a month that are not fully booked yet. and Ross visit some of the restrictions have made visiting a school Since in-person tours are booking colleges they are interested impossible, go online for a virtual tour and up very quickly, many schools offer online in like UF (pictured above). explore college’s websites and any available tours or self-guided tours. The New College videos. Colleges are increasing their online of Florida is offering a “tour checklist” and map on their footprint as they contemplate scaling back in-person website to help people get around without a tour leader. admitted student activities. Sites like CollegeReel are Juniors Elysse Sanchez, Riley Ross and Hayley another fun way to explore a campus remotely.” 6 | Cobra Life March 2021 Exam changes, what to know BY KAYLA SHIM According to Cambridge International, “We will Staff writer provide exams for your students, if your government says AICE students are waiting in anticipation for it’s safe for you to run them.” Lazere said, “Cambridge Cambridge to finalize a decision on end-of-the-year has reached out and, as of right now, there will be exams exams. Juniors are uncertain about the CollegeBoard’s in May. This may change though.” Currently, testing will decision to take away the essay portion on the test, as be held in schools, follow social distancing and all other it used to be a requirement to get into some colleges. CDC guidelines. Only one thing is for certain: both decisions directly affect Some speculate that due to the pandemic, students’ futures. Some students rely on strong test College Board’s SAT and ACT are seen as useless. scores in order to get scholarships, as they might be the According to NBC News, “When the pandemic left only means to go to college. thousands of students with no opportunity to take the exam, many more colleges set aside the testing requirement for this year.” Not only did they set aside the requirement for that year, some schools made it optional to submit the scores for SAT/ ACT indefinitely. Some speculate the SAT/ ACT are going to be gone for good within the next few years. Even though SAT and Cambridge testing has left many students and teachers in a state of uncertainty, there is still hope juniors will get a chance for testing, as well as Cambridge students.

Photo courtesy of Logan Wehmeyer Photo Alyssa Pavilonis, testing coordinator, prepares for the schoolwide SAT by prepping supplies.

Stay-at-home learning may not be in some student’s best interest when it comes to obtaining test-taking tips or practicing timed sections. Junior Zoe Kozan, who is in the AICE program, said, “At home there are so many distractions, I think my test scores will probably be less than ideal.” Many students tend to feel not as confident with virtual schooling. They believe they are not obtaining much information being given to them. They worry greatly how the learning situation will affect their SAT and Cambridge scores. Not all teachers share that belief, however. Natasha Lazere, has been teaching AICE Lit for seven years. She believes that her scores will not change from previous years. Lazere said, “I think there should be AICE testing because students as a whole perform better on the exams than what their teachers predict them to earn on the exams.” She believes in the students she teaches, and trusts they pay attention and work hard, hence her confidence in scores. Support from teachers is important to help students believe in themselves, and achieve their goal on the exams, especially when this year has cast so much doubt over students. Cobra Life | 7 2/2/2021 Florida Diving Adds Caroline Pagac - Florida Gators Florida Gators

Florida Diving Adds Caroline Pagac UF student with strong diving background will join team in the fall Tommy Scott ParkWomen's SwimmingVista is& Diving celebrating two former athletes, Caroline Pagac and Jade Steele. Pagac’s continued hard work has paid off as Posted: Tuesday, February 2, 2021 GAINESVILLE, Fla. – The Florida women's swimming and diving program added Caroline Pagac, a University of Florida student with a strong diving background, to shethe roster is for now the fall ofa 2021. member of the Dive Team for the University of Florida. Jade has recently earned a roster spot to play soccer for

Pagac, a native of Lake Worth, Fla. and Parka Vista Community High School, was the Palm Beach County Conference Champion in 2018 and 2019, while also qualifying for the FHSAA State Championships in 2018 and 2019. University of Central Florida. Congratulations to both young ladies. Park Vista is proud of you! Gators diving coach Bryan Gillooly says that Pagac can bring plenty to the table for the program.

"Caroline is a very special young woman," Gillooly said. "Her attitude and work ethic are incredible. She really embodies what it means to be a Gator in the pool and in the classroom. She is an excellent addition to the team and I see her having a great career here at Florida."

Follow along with the Gators on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and on the web at FloridaGators.com.

https://floridagators.com/news/2021/2/2/womens-swimming-diving-florida-diving-adds-caroline-pagac.aspx?print=true 1/2 Photos courtesy Vista’s of Park Twitter Photos

Congratulations to Medical Academy teachers and the following HOSA Members for placing in their respective events at HOSA Virtual Winter Leadership Conference:

• Marissa Veeravagu: 1st Place - Medical Reading • Morgan Minch: 2nd Place - Medical Terminology • Autumn Saunders: 2nd Place - Pharmacology • Adrianna Lizana: 4th Place - Extemporaneous Writing • Erika Bast: 2nd Place - Health Career Photography • Shannon Southwick: 3rd Place - Health Career Photography • Tristan Guillaume: 5th Place - Job Seeking Skills • Kaycee Hoelzel: 2nd Place - Prepared Speaking • Christopher Britton: 3rd Place - Researched Persuasive Speaking & Writing • Amal Abdin, Emily Krkoska, Sofia Koves, Don Pham: 1st Place - Community Awareness • Jack Britton, Ryan Maze, Justin Nguyen: 3rd Place - Creative Problem Solving • Emma Carruthers, Tiffany Gonzalez-Sanchez, Kathryn Turner, Gabriella Zigler: 3rd Place - Medical Innovation 8 | Cobra Life March 2021 How to manage mental health BY LEO FERGENSON Staff writer If one knows a person struggling with common mental health issues, like anxiety or depression, but does not really know how to help or what these illnesses do, one’s good intentions can inadvertently cause more harm than good. In cases where someone is feeling anxious or depressed, it is a good idea to keep letting him or her know someone is there, but there is a fine line. Too close, and the person

may feel like the friend is overbearing or Today courtesy of Psychology Photo become over dependent on one person. Not There are many steps that need to be taken to help a friend manage his or close enough, and there is the risk one could her mental health, and it is important to understand which steps are the think nobody cares. right ones. A great way of helping people who are in a dark spot is to offer to do things with them. This is a great, easy way to offer them an escape from their own head as well as an opportunity to show there are people that care. However, if the invitation is declined, instead of saying, “It’ll do you good” or “I think you’ll feel better,” try saying, “I know you don’t feel like doing anything, but if you want to, the invitation stands.” This technique of allowing them to choose without putting pressure on them to do so makes the situation a lot easier. While there is a chance they may decline, there is a better chance of the invitation being accepted if they feel they are given the choice. Another way of helping is to simply talk to and allow them to vent. Oftentimes, the chance to vent anger and frustration is incredibly helpful as it lets the person blow off steam and feel what they need to. After releasing pent-up negative emotions, it is a lot easier to manage those overpowering feelings. However, everyone’s experience is unique. Junior Charlie Townsend, said, “Mental health impacts everybody differently - some might want to socialize to feel better when depressed, but others might just want some alone time. The best way to help someone with mental health issues is to message them to check on how they are doing, and ask if they need anything - don’t force anything upon them, and don’t make decisions for them.” According to mentalhealth.org.uk, the most important thing in managing mental health is to talk about it. The website states, “Talking about your feelings isn’t a sign of weakness. It’s part of taking charge of your well being and doing what you can to stay healthy.” By talking to another person, one effectively gets a second person to help carry the weight of his or her struggles, making it easier to carry. By opening yourself up to a person who needs to talk to someone, you share their struggles and can act as a way for them to vent their feelings so that they can feel better in the long run. All in all, allowing people to vent their feelings while also being there for them is a great way to help them healthily deal with various mental illnesses. The simple act of being there is so important, and it really makes feelings easier to manage.

Read more about Annalise’s work at Annalise’s work at annalise.wellman.wordpress. com. Cobra Life | 9 Park Vista junior advances in chess BY EMILY COBB Rodriquez’s chess journey getting more firsthand tournament Staff writer began in Puerto Rico as a young boy, experience. Chess is a game that not but he eventually stopped playing, When asked about chess only deals with intense strategy and and did not pick it up again until tools one can use to learn and mind games, but also dozens of 2020. Leading up to him playing in a practice, Rodriguez said,“Doing different techniques. Not many are Florida scholastic tournament on Jan. chess puzzles really helped me a lot, interested in a game so meticulous, 23, 2021, where he placed 6th out and books are a great way to learn but that is not the case for Junior of 24. This was his first tournament the board better.” His favorite part Emilio Rodriguez, who recently began in America, and the first one he has of chess is that, “chess is all about playing chess seriously. played since he was five. He did very how complicated situations can get, Chess has been making well, despite playing against students and how I can sit there and create a comeback with the help of who have been playing for longer and attacks and creative counterplay to both COVID-19 and the hit Netflix who have received serious coaching. throw off my opponent.” series “The Queen’s Gambit”. The This tournament was different from Rodriguez plans on simplified explanation of chess is normal though, with COVID-19 continuing to play chess, and it is a strategic game involving a barring in-person play. Rodriguez hopefully his interest and dedication checkerboard of black-and-white said, “Playing on a computer was will spark more Park Vista students squares and two sets of chess certainly challenging because I to pursue the game. In fact, pieces, one black, the other white. couldn’t really see the board very Rodriguez is planning on getting a A single chess set includes eight well” and “looking at a screen for club sponsor in order to open up a pawns, two rooks, two knights, two 7 hours straight isn’t really all that chess club at Park Vista next year bishops, one king and one queen. healthy.” Despite that, he enjoyed his when everyone returns to brick and Two players move their chess pieces, experience, and eagerly prepared for mortar school. He hopes it will be adhering to each piece’s guidelines, his next tournament that was on Feb. met with much enthusiasm and and attempt to capture each other’s 27 in Miami. At the tournament, he many will join. king until one player finally does so won 3/5 of his games, and enjoyed and wins.

Photo by Emily Cobb Emily by Photo Rodriquez plays at a chess tournament on Feb. 27 in Miami. 10 | Features March 2021

History’s forgotten warrior: Richard Etheridge BY MADISON BARGANIER Copy editor Not all heroes’ names are known. When one typically imagines a heroic figure in history, Ulysses S. Grant or Martin Luther King Jr. come to mind. Many names, however, are often forgotten despite their great achievements. This was the case for the storm warriors. Very few people know the history behind these men. In the 1800s, these men became the first all-black coast guards and life-savers station, not some fantasy book characters, but real-life heroes. To do so, they had to overcome the great hardships of the American Civil War courtesy of Ourstate.com Photo and the continuous oppressive racism that followed The storm warriors were the first all-black, life-saving service in the war as backlash. These brave men were stationed America. They formed in the 1880s. at Pea Island, N.C., and risked their lives to save others Probably the event Etheridge and his crew countless times. How were they able to do so? With are most known for is the Oct. 11, 1896 E.S. Newman the help of a very talented and capable leader: Richard incident. This ship was caught in a dangerous hurricane Etheridge, the first African American man to lead a life- that was known to be “one of the most ferocious storms saving service. of the nineteenth century,” according to massmoments. Etheridge was born a slave Jan. 6, 1842. When org. After being notified about the ship, Etheridge the Civil War began, he gained skills (that would later ordered his men to get ready and headed straight into assist him in becoming a capable leader) by fighting in the hurricane. The storm warriors battled the storm, and the war as a sergeant of one of the union army’s colored saved all 29 members of the crew. This was a major troops. This experience allowed him and his men to be success due to Etheridge’s leadership and training, along precise and successful in dangerous situations. In 1880, with the men’s bravery and diligence. For this, they were he was appointed to be the captain of the storm warriors. awarded the Gold Lifesaving Medal by the Coast Guard. This, however, was no easy task. “It would have been a Etheridge’s achievements did not end there, however. He spartan life on the Outer Banks, and Captain Etheridge also battled for social equality in the Freedman Colony, must have thought he was providing a vital service to the his hometown. Manteonc.gov stated, “He co-authored a sailing community. As an old Slave State, North Carolina compelling letter to the commissioner of the Freedmen’s was dealing with the aftermath of reconstruction and Bureau and signed it ‘in behalf of humanity.’” the Gilded Age. The Captain took an opportunity and Etheridge was a hero of his time, setting the made a career for himself and the others under his stage for future generations’ opportunities. Although command,” Joseph Winkler, Park Vista’s AICE American many do not know his name, he will always be honored history teacher, said. “Providing a service that the local as a strong leader and a heroic man in the history books. community and sailors needed was impressive. But as a veteran of the American Civil War who also served along the Mexican/American border, Captain Etheridge had a track record of overcoming obstacles.” Etheridge faced great challenges besides war and racial tensions, like the station being burnt down and rebuilt. However, his dedication helped the service thrive. As a captain, he taught his crew rigorous drills to prepare the men for what was to come their way. According to history.uscg.mil, “His station earned the reputation of ‘one of the tautest on the Carolina Coast’ with its keeper well-known as one of the most courageous and ingenious lifesavers in the service.”

Features | 11 Nature, bountiful and plentiful in the sunshine state

BY EMILY COBB Staff writer Photo courtesy of Captain Kimo Captain of courtesy Photo Quarantine has been hard on many, and with most to ensure the safety of the visitors in times of COVID-19.) individuals cooped up in their homes, an escape to nature According to floridastateparks.org, the Myakka River is is much needed, and state parks offer just that. Florida is “Florida’s first state-designated wild and scenic river, and riddled with them, there being 175 in Florida alone, and it flows through a vast expanse of unspoiled wetlands, are some of the best places to experience the beauty of prairies, hammocks and pinelands.” It offers many Florida. According to Eric Draper, the director of the Florida amenities, and could make an amazing area to visit over Department of Environmental Protection and the Division of spring break. According to Draper, “Parks are for recreation Recreation and Parks/Florida Park Service, “Florida State and learning,” so, it is important to not only have fun while Parks have been recognized four times with a Gold Medal visiting but also learn about the ecosystems, wildlife and as America’s best state parks.” That is a great honor, and come away with more knowledge and a proof that parks are worth checking out. great experience. State parks have been around for more than 100 Another nearby park is Jonathan Dickinson State years, the first one opening in California in 1862. The first Park. It is located in Martin County, only 43 minutes state park in Florida, Myakka River State Park, opened north of Lake Worth. The hours are the same as Myakka in 1941, and it is still open today. State parks started River State Park, and so is the admission fee. Jonathan gaining popularity in the early 1900s when President Dickenson is the largest state park in South Florida, made Theodore Roosevelt established five state parks during up of 16 distinct natural communities. Like Myakka, there his presidency. Roosevelt also enacted the Antiquities Act are dozens of activities to do, such as kayaking, boat tours, which, according to the National Park Service, “Enabled camping, mountain biking, horseback riding, swimming, President Roosevelt and succeeding presidents to proclaim wildlife viewing and more. According to floridastateparks. historic landmarks, historic or prehistoric structures, and org, “Historical interests include a secret World War other objects of historic or scientific interest in federal II training camp, the story of the shipwrecked Quaker ownership as merchant who is the park’s namesake, and Trapper Nelson, national monuments.” the legendary Wild Man of the Loxahatchee.” Myakka River State Park is located in Sarasota, Lake Kissimmee State Park, in Lake Wales, is roughly 3 hours west of Lake Worth. At Myakka, there are roughly 2 ½ hours away from Lake Worth. The hours a variety of things to do. Including fishing, hiking, staying are 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., and the admission fee is $5 per at one of the cabins by the 85-mile long Myakka River, vehicle. During non-COVID-19 restrictions, you can find a sightseeing, wildlife tours and more. Entrance fees are unique activity that transports one into 1876 cow camp. fairly inexpensive, just $6 per car, and the park is open Surprisingly, Florida was actually known for its cattle from 8 a.m. till sunset, 365 days a year. (Of course, both industry due to Spanish conquistadors bringing over cows face masks and social distancing are heavily encouraged and horses in the 1500s.

12 | Entertainment To celebrate this, Lake Kissimmee State Park has its According to Draper, Florida state parks are very own cow pen that allows for people to step back currently facing issues including lack of funding, high into time, and experience life as a rancher. costs when it comes to maintaining them, backlog Other activities one can experience at Lake Kissimmee costs, difficulty finding qualified employees, low pay are walking and running, equestrian camping, paddling, and climate change to name a few. Climate change camping, boating, geo-seeking and more. is proving to be a significant issue, with more parks Surprisingly, Florida was actually known for its “seeing more extreme weather events including storms cattle industry due to Spanish conquistadors bringing and droughts.” As well as coastal parks experiencing over cows and horses in the 1500s. To celebrate this, “significant erosion and saltwater intrusion”. State Lake Kissimmee State Park has its very own cow Parks need your help, and your support is always pen that allows for people to step back into time, welcome. Whether that is through simply visiting them, and experience life as a rancher. Other activities one talking to the government in support of state parks, or can experience at Lake Kissimmee are walking and simply cleaning up after yourself while you are there. running, equestrian camping, paddling, camping, This spring break consider visiting a state boating, geo-seeking park or two where a breath of fresh air is more than and more. welcome. For more information on state parks go to floridastateparks.org. Photo courtesy of Experience Kissimmee

Entertainment | 13 Artists change up ways of releasing music BY CARLY SIEDMAN Staff writer Music artists have been finding new ways of releasing their music for fans to enjoy during COVID-19. Normally, they would go on tour, but that is not practical now. Since having thousands of fans crammed together in an indoor event is not safe, artists have (and are continuing to) participate in virtual concerts and do music releases from their homes. Some have done so to celebrate those who have worked endlessly during this time. Artists like Lady Gaga, Billie Eilish and Stevie Wonder participated in a joint streaming event, “One

World: Together at Home” to globally fight courtesy of hollywoodinsider.com Photo against the virus and celebrate healthcare Artists like Billie Eilish, Jennifer Lopez and Stevie Wonder participate in a workers on the front lines. In addition, artists virtual concert celebrating front-line workers. are going direct to fans from their own homes, using services like Twitch, Instagram TV and others. These services are not new, but the pandemic Music venues across the United States are has increased the audiences, and record labels are stepping up during this time of need, volunteering to facilitating it by providing live streaming equipment to become sites for the distribution of the COVID-19 vaccine. performers. Streaming platforms have also allowed new In a joint letter to President Joe Biden, a number of revenue earning methods, including memberships to organizations – including entertainment companies artist channels that allow early or exclusive access AEG, Live Nation, the Broadway League and the National to content, as well as virtual gatherings and paid- Independent Venue Association – have volunteered their commenting features. venues to help with the rollout of the COVID-19 vaccine. In Some artists have been promoting their music addition to providing locations for administering vaccines, through the radio, in which fans would have to tune in to this use of the music venues would provide jobs for a certain station to hear their favorite artist’s new music. those unemployed during the pandemic. “An estimated Global, the owner of radio stations CapitalFM and and 95% of live events industry businesses and workers talk station LBC, agreed that listening to online radio had have lost nearly 100% of their revenue, and are ready increased by 15% during the pandemic, as reported by and willing to get to work immediately”, Live Nation said. BBC. Eight in 10 people reported spending the same or These organizations can design, deliver and manage the more time using radio, and 83% of consumers agreed infrastructure as well as the people needed to staff them. they are listening to as much or more radio because of These virtual “events” have not only given music COVID-19, according to a Nielsen survey. artists some relief, but students of PV as well. Senior Mikhayla Robinson said, “Virtual concerts are a great way to maintain some happiness during this time.” While these virtual concerts are not exactly ideal, they have helped make millions happy during this difficult time, and more are expected to be held in the upcoming month.

14 | Entertainment March 2021 Teacher/celebrity lookalikes BY CARY TENDRICH Production manager At Park Vista lookalikes between teachers and celebrities are to the point where some teachers look like doppelgangers. Patrick Duncan and actor Jim Carrie look eerily similar. Duncan, director of the Park Vista band, shares strong facial similarities with the 59-year-old American-Canadian actor. Art teacher Laura Mambourg and singer/songwriter Kelly Clarkson project strong facial similarities as well. Business education teacher Alex Macsuga and actor George Kennedy look quite similar to each other as well. Finally, Venom Vision instructor and Special Olympics coach Stephanie Gilbert’s smile looks very similar to that of actress and singer Ana Ortiz. & IMDB courtesy of parkvistaband.com Photos Patrick Duncan and Jim Carrey Take a look around campus and see what other teacher/ celebrity “twins” you can find! Photos courtesy of PVCH.com & courtesy of PVCH.com Photos starbyface.com Photos courtesy of PVCHS.com & Hello! courtesy of PVCHS.com Photos magazine Photos courtesy of PVCHS.com courtesy of PVCHS.com Photos & Wikipedia Stephanie Gilbert and Ana Ortiz Alex Macsuga and George Kennedy Laura Mambourg and Kelly Clarkson Quick Bites BY LEO FERGENSON Staff writer

1. The Patagonian Toothfish, better known as the Chilean Sea-Bass, got its name because on restaurant menus, “Sea- Bass” seems more appetizing than “toothfish”. (http://seafood.edf.org)

2. Before 1982, pennies were made up of 95% pure copper. Since then, pennies are made using 97% zinc, with a pure copper plating, which is easier and cheaper to make. (https://www.thesprucecrafts.com)

3. A “moment” is actually a quantifiable measurement of time. Used in the medieval era, a moment is 1/40th of a solar hour, in which there are 12 hours of sunlight. Because of this, these hours’ lengths vary on the day and season. On average, however, a moment was 90 seconds. (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Moment_(time))

4. In 1931, “Dracula” graced the silver screen for the first time, and was played by actor Bela Lugosi. (https://www. insider.com)

5. The term “Survival of the Fittest” is often attributed to Charles Darwin, who came up with the theory of evolution. However, the term was coined by Herbert Spencer, an English philosopher and biologist. (https://www.britannica.com) Entertainment | 15 2020 anime season: fans taken by storm BY MADISON BARGANIER “Jujutsu Kaisen” is a dark & JOSH FOREMAN fantasy and adventure fiction anime Copy editor and staff writer that caught the attention of the The anime industry has anime community Oct. 4, 2020, been growing in popularity in the and has still not let go. For the west for quite a while now, but 16 episodes out so far, it has not 2020s quarantine led to one its disappointed the vast majority of the most unorthodox years yet. Many anime community. This show is also highly anticipated animes were being handled by MAPPA, but people heavily delayed, and some even are not complaining. This relatively

Photo courtesy of republicworld.com Photo unpopular manga, which is what cancelled. The quality, however, was Official promo art for “Jujutsu Kaisen.” not forsaken, resulting in many fans, some of anime shows are based like Junior Andrew Diago, ultimately Sometimes certain episodes of the off, has turned into an incredibly feeling pleased and viewing the final season make it to the very top popular anime that has remained in 2020 season as “one of the best of IMBD’s TV show ratings. Many Crunchyroll’s, one of the top anime anime seasons of recent.” people believe this season and the streaming services, most popular “Attack on Titan” is both story’s conclusion will be a landmark animes for its entire runtime. People an award-winning and best-selling event in the industry, as well as just fell in love with “Jujutsu Kaisen’s” manga and dark fantasy anime. It being an exceptionally well made likeable characters, great animation takes place in an apocalyptic world show that holds a special place in and unique story over the course of and is filled with action, great world fans hearts. “Attack on Titan will three months. Each new episode building and dark storytelling that definitely be a memorable show that seems to top the last in almost every are all well executed, and has made will always be looked fondly upon,” way, and every Friday when it airs, it a fan favorite for a while now. The said Diago. “It has some of the most it leaves fans in shock and talking fourth and final season of “Attack on memorable moments in anime about for days. It truly has something Titan” began Dec. 8, 2020, and has for me.” for everyone - emotional moments, been going weekly since. This show Haikyu!! TO THE TOP is exciting fights, great villains and, has been quite controversial in the a popular sports anime that has occasionally, even romance. No anime community recently as the reached unexpected popularity. wonder it is taking the anime animation studio handling the show Anime fans fell in love with the witty community by storm. changed from one animation studio, cast of the Karasuno High volleyball Countless new which handled seasons one through team and their journey to the top. groundbreaking and revolutionary three, to MAPPA, another animation Throughout seasons one through animes have contributed to growing studio. While MAPPA is held in high three, fans of “Haikyu!!” watched the anime community tremendously esteem as they usually make very protagonists Hinata Shoyo and over the course of 2020. New titles well received animes like Jujutsu Kageyama Tobio grow in their lovable like Jujutsu Kaisen and continuing Kaisen, Yuri!!! characterization and face conflicts titles like Attack on Titan and On “Ice” and “Inuyashiki,” as they go up against formidable Haikyu!! To the Top, has led to fans of “Attack on Titan” have been opponents. The show features thousands upon thousands of people very critical of the way they are many tropes, arcs and storylines to become fascinated with what the handling the fan-favorite title. People fans of sports media have grown anime industry has to offer, and it are mostly critical of their use of to love, like school-based episodes won’t be stopping anytime soon. computer-generated imagery (CGI) with midterms or training camps. There are always new animes coming as well as their animation style, However, this beloved anime’s fourth out, and older classic series making as opposed to the previous hand- season did run into some issues. a return; there’s always something drawn style. Diego said he found this It was originally scheduled for an for everyone, and everyone should season “disappointing because of April 2020 release, but got pushed give it a try. the CGI used for the Titans.” back to October due to COVID-19 Though there is a lot of restrictions. However, it was worth criticism of “Attack on Titan’s” final the wait for many fans. Even with season, there are more supporters style change, fans enjoyed this and fans who are incredibly happy season a lot and are anticipating the with the way the show is going. fifth season. 16 | Entertainment March 2021 Kai’s Cooking Corner Instructions: 1. Using a hand mixer or a stand mixer fitted with paddle attachment, cream the softened butter and both sugars together on medium speed until smooth, about 2 minutes. 2. Add the eggs and mix on high until combined, about 1 minute. Scrape down the sides and bottom of the bowl as needed. Add the vanilla and molasses and mix on high until combined. Set aside. 3. In a separate bowl, whisk the flour, baking soda, cinnamon and salt together. Add to the wet ingredients and mix on low until combined. 4. Beat in the oats, raisins and walnuts (if using) on low speed. Oatmeal raisin cookies Dough will be thick, yet very sticky. Ingredients: 5. Chill the dough for 30-60 minutes in the refrigerator (do 1 cup (230g) unsalted butter, softened to room the full hour if afraid of the cookies spreading too much). temperature If chilling for longer (up to 2 days), allow to sit at room 1 cup (200g) packed light or dark brown sugar temperature for at least 30 minutes before rolling and baking. 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar 4. Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C). Line two large baking 2 large eggs sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats. 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract (yes, tablespoon!) Set aside. 1 tablespoon molasses 5. Roll balls of dough (about 2 tablespoons of dough per 1-1/2 cups (190g) all-purpose flour cookie) and place 2 inches apart on the baking sheets. 1 teaspoon baking soda 6. Bake for 12-14 minutes until lightly browned on the sides. 1-1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon The centers will look very soft and under-baked. 1/2 teaspoon salt 7. Remove from the oven and let cool on the baking sheet 3 cups (240g) old-fashioned whole rolled oats for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool 1 cup (140g) raisins completely. The cookies will continue to “set” on the baking 1/2 cup (64g) chopped toasted walnuts (optional) sheet during this time. Up and coming entertainment BY LEO FERGENSON Staff writer Cruella: An origin story for Cruella DeVill, the famous villain from 101 Dalmations (May 28) Ghostbusters: Afterlife: A sequel to 1989’s Ghostbusters II, Afterlife focuses on the grandchildren of a ghostbuster and their connection to their grandfather’s past. (June 11) In The Heights: A movie based off the musical of the same name, written by Hamilton’s Lin-Manuel Miranda. (June 18) Top Gun: Maverick: A sequel in the Top Gun franchise, following Tom Cruise’s Air Force Lieutenant Pete “Maverick” Mitchell (July 2) James Bond: No Time to Die - James Bond returns in 2021, the classic spy is pulled out of retirement to fight off a mysterious masked villain. (October 8) West Side Story, 2021: Steven Spielberg directs this adaptation of the classic film, featuring Ansel Elgort as Tony and Rachel Zegler as Maria. (Dec. 10) The Matrix 4: Keanu Reeves returns as Neo, the hacker-turned freedom fighter from 1999’s dystopian action-film, The Matrix (Dec. 22) The popular video game franchise, Halo, will be getting a 10-episode season, in anticipation of this year’s Halo: Infinite. It is expected that the plot will tie in to Infinite’s story. (TBD) The popular TV drama “Dexter,” a show about a forensic scientist who by night goes outside the law to bring justice upon serial killers and murderers, is getting a 10-episode season on Showtime. (TBD) Star Wars: The Bad Batch: Taking place immediately after last year’s explosive final season of The Clone Wars, this new Star Wars series follows clone squad 99, a special forces unit finding their way in the rise of the Galactic Empire. (TBD) Entertainment | 17 Change in environmental policies BY FERNANDO MATAMOROS Sports editor The Biden administration has taken priority on changing many of the actions put in place by the Trump administration. President Biden, who was inaugurated Jan. 20, 2021, rolled out various policies on many different topics within his first few hours on the job. A few of the key policies he had reinstated are many environmental policies canceled by the Trump administration. Biden pledged his administration will be one that makes decisions based on scientific evidence and promised to engage the United States government in helping the environment. Biden created a climate change policy agenda and made various changes in his first 30 days in office. For instance, on his second day in office, Biden announced an executive order elevating climate change as a national security concern and committing to the conservation goals. Directly after this, Biden announced the U.S. had officially rejoined The Paris Climate Change Agreement. This agreement was joined by 195 countries under the United Nations, and began to work on Nov. 4, 2016, at the beginning of Trump’s presidency when Photo courtesy of www.heal.com Photo he instantly renounced it. According to the UNFCCC.int, processes of building 1.5 million new energy-efficient The agreement works on a five-year cycle, in which each homes and implement 500,000 new electric vehicle country submits their national contributions on how they charging stations across the nation, this all will help the can help the environment individually and collectively. In U.S. shift from fossil fuel energy to natural clean energy its first five years, the agreement has caused low-carbon because other vehicle companies are starting to follow solutions and new markets leading into zero-carbon Tesla and are creating their own electric vehicles. solutions becoming competitive across economic sectors The Biden presidency, prioritizing climate representing 25% of emissions. change comes at a time of need, after the U.S. has seen In addition to joining the The Paris Climate an increase in fossil fuel use, increase in air pollution Change Agreement, President Biden’s secretary Jen and an increase in forest fires, after the U.S. suffered Paski informed that the president has signed executive through one of the hottest summers to date, according orders to pause oil and gas leases on public land, in to USnews.com. Climate change is now a topic of high- the hopes of doubling offshore wind driven energy priority in the U.S. after the change in presidency, and and conserving 30% of federal lands and oceans by now the we can join other nations to combat it. 2030. The executive orders also have begun the legal Feeding South Florida supplies needed Due to the pandemic, the official Feeding South Florida has had trouble trying to find enough supplies for people who are struggling. Park Vista students can help by donating money to this website: https://feedingsouthflorida.org/donate-now/, or donating the following food supplies: • Canned foods (soups, beans, etc.) • Boxed goods (pasta, crackers, etc.) • Chips • Water bottles • Juice jugs (Other types of accepted foods are listed on their website) Students can also register to volunteer for community service hours at https://feedingsouthflorida.org/volunteer/ 18 | News March 2021 Online tone indicators make strides in autism awareness BY KAILIEGH PINTA neurodivergent people so they Staff writer feel safe in an environment where Tone indicators are rising people are able to bond, play games as a helpful tool to better decipher and make friends. tones and matters of online Many people believe tone messages amongst those on the indicators “ruin the joke” when used autism spectrum. Originally used on in ambiguous situations. However, forums such as Twitter and reddit the use of these indicators can often for people who are neurodivergent, save a lot of trouble. For example, tone indicators are designed to using “I hate you /j” shows that the help people with mental disabilities person saying the phrase is joking decipher tone and can assist in and the other person is made clear avoiding conflicts. of this, so they know they have Since their emergence, nothing to worry about. On the other courtesy of clairomilf on Twitter Photo Above are tone indicators that communities many people have been prioritizing hand, “ I hate you /srs,” can bring use online. using indicators online and trouble. Tone indicators should never be used as a joke. encouraging many neurotypical and “/th” which is a threat. These Since there are many people to use them to assist those advancements online have helped different tones to be understood who need the indicators. Many many communicate more effectively through text, there are commonly apps and websites, such as Discord and avoid conflicts. used indicators such as “/j”, which and Instagram, have become Junior Samantha Kalish means joking, “/srs”, which means more autism-friendly recently. On has had experience using tone the context is serious, “/ny”, which Discord, there are certain servers indicators online. “I really do feel means the person speaking is not where people organize together to like they help with understanding yelling, “/q” which means the person often play video games and bond and conversing because it does is quoting and “/ij” which means over certain interests. On a website make comprehending typed tones the person is referencing an inside called Disboard there are certain better for neurodivergent people. joke. There are also indicators that servers that are labeled as “autism- I’m around people who use them are niche and not used as often, yet friendly”, which means that the regularly and I’m happy to use them can still be used in communicating communities take show precautions, regularly and see them start to be such as: “/cb” which is clickbait, rules and guidelines designed for used more often,” she said.

SIA controversy A controversy has ignited about Sia, known for a film in which she directed. The film depicted a scene where someone with autism was triggered into an episode and now hiring Handlers & Receptionist in the film, the person who tried to “calm” Great pay, good tips, them does so in a way that can cause serious plus you can bring your harm and even death for people on the dog to work - for free. spectrum. There are guidelines to help calm Must be caring, courteous people down during public “meltdowns”. For and able to work in a example, do not punish individuals for having fast-paced environment. breakdowns because it is not something they Email can control. [email protected] The most important thing that can for more information. be done to help with these meltdowns is teaching coping strategies and preparations for in advance. Noise cancelling headphones and coping strategies, like fidgeting with safe objects, can often assist.

News | 19 Zoom reigns supreme BY NOAM BERNSTEIN Google Meets had their fair share of struggled with figuring out how to use Business manager troublemakers join strangers’ calls it, while others did not even bother In March 2020, events were to taunt them. Zoom knew this was trying. Students who got placed cancelled and students were sent a major issue and knew they had to into breakout rooms encountered home. Businesses, schools and make changes so meets were safe. awkwardness as it was already social groups faced the challenge Zoom created the “admit” feature well into the year and they did not of how to adapt to life in a virtual where the meeting host or co-host have the feature during the “get to setting. Virtual conferencing has to approve a participant’s know you” stage in the beginning of platforms such as Zoom, Google request before allowing them to join the year. Meets and Skype quickly emerged the call. This feature, which is now When in person, speaking to as solutions. While all three are the standard on all Zoom meetings, a teacher is as simple as walking up able to replicate group functions made it so only the people who to their desk, but on Google Meets, in one way or another, Zoom has were meant to be on the call were this becomes more complicated. always stood out as the best, most allowed on. Google Meets still do not Google Meets allows participants efficient platform. have this feature, as anyone with a to either unmute their microphone “Hey, join this Zoom!” A link can join. In terms of security, and speak, or send a message to in phrase virtually unknown to the Zoom’s swift response shows their the “chat” feature. While Zoom has general public before the pandemic commitment to online safety. always had both of these features, is now a commonly understood Being on a large call with it also has the “private message” request between peers and many people is often intimidating, feature, where participants can colleagues. To join a Zoom call, all and participants are often more message each other without others one needs is the link and the app. comfortable with speaking in seeing. The host can even change the Links can be texted, emailed or smaller, more intimate groups. Zoom settings to fit a classroom setting by posted in any digital platform, and has always had the “breakout room” only allowing private chats between one click is all it takes to join. A feature, where the host can move the teacher and students. Instead meeting ID and passcode can also participants into smaller groups for of having to disturb the whole class, be used to join. The simplicity behind part of the meeting. This allows for people can privately message each Zoom is what makes it incredibly intimate group work. It even allows other, keeping them focused. reliable. While links can be sent out for the meeting hosts to move The Palm Beach County for Google Meets, it is confusing themselves between the rooms if School District has been using and difficult to get the shareable they want to see what people are Google Meets as their primary mode link which creates a larger barrier in up to. Google Meets was far too late of virtual learning since August, and social connection. adopt this useful tool. Before October no one expects them to change it. As virtual platforms became 2020, no such feature existed on However, even though Google Meets a primary function, online security Google Meets, and when they finally has been an effective learning tool, emerged as a real issue. Incidents released their version of “breakout Zoom would have been far more of “virtual attacks” of racism, anti- rooms’’, it was only available to reliable because it is simple, secure semitism and other forms of hate those users with a G Suite Enterprise and allows for a more interactive were being reported daily. With for Education subscription (which virtual classroom. links being spread like wildfire and PV has). Since it was already well limited security in calls, Zoom and into the school year, many teachers 20 | Opinion March 2021

Google Meets, newer but reliable BY EMILY COBB Staff writer As the months of online school have ticked by, both teachers and students have gotten their fair share of new technology and Google Meets. While some schools use Zoom and others use Google Meets, a heated debate has arisen on which one is superior. I, for one, as well as many other Park Vista teachers and students, heavily courtesy of Photo wikimediacommons.com prefer and enjoy Google Meets. but they can be typed directly into a meeting or added Many know Google Meets is a platform used to by a third party. Both of those choices are obviously time host online meetings. People can share their screens, consuming, and a lot more difficult than a simple click of split people into breakout rooms, teach and more. the button. Google came out with Meets in 2017, and it can also Another great feature of Google Meets is it be paired with Google Classroom and other apps such allows for the meeting link to be automatically on the as Google Docs, gmail, and other Google features. That banner in classrooms, that way students are not receiving alone makes Meets effective and helpful - especially in daily messages with meeting links and do not have to comparison with other programs such as Zoom. worry about where to find the link. Nor do teachers have Google Meets allows for most of the apps to worry about forgetting to send the link. This again students and teachers use to be in the same area, allows for Google Classroom and Google Meets to be and keeps everyone connected. Since it pairs so well used simultaneously. with Google Classroom, students are able to have easy Google Meets does not allow students to access to Meets and their classes, which in turn makes privately message each other during class, or for students school work easier. Google Meets also allows people to and teachers to privately message. Every chat is public see themselves on camera, change their background, for everyone to see. This private chat function is offered unmute or mute themselves and turn their cameras on Zoom, and many see it as a benefit to online learning. on or off before even entering a meeting. Allowing one I think this function could be abused by students, and to readjust before they enter definitely helps create a could lead to less bonding between the class as a whole. safety blanket and prevents embarrassing moments When students see how their classmates ask questions, from happening. I have found that when I enter a or interact with other students or teachers, it allows Zoom meeting, it does not allow me to view myself for them to have a better understanding of each other. before entering or even ensure I am muted or my Additionally, allowing students to ask questions in front camera is turned on, which has resulted in annoyance of the class lets all of the class get an explanation. and inconvenience. Allowing students who also might have that question to Google Meets alerts users if they are muted get it answered without any repeats for the teacher. while speaking and provides captions. This is a great Online schooling has been difficult for everyone, feat in terms of accessibility for the deaf and hard of and of course technological issues occur. Programs hearing community (HOH). This might not appear to can crash, link errors can happen and, like with Zoom, be a big deal, but for the deaf and HOH, it can make a meets can be hacked. Luckily, the hacking issues at Park major difference in learning and understanding what is Vista have calmed down due to student’s being more occurring in an online meeting. According to an article by monitored and harsher punishments being dealt out. the UCLA Disabilities and Computing Program, “without Overall, Google Meets is a great program, and in a translator, any kind of video is rendered completely my opinion it is superior to Zoom. useless and unintelligible.” Captions are a necessity for those who can not hear. Zoom does not have captions, Opinion | 21 Rockers can hip hop, too BY ALIYANA VASQUEZ Editor-in-Chief genre can be great for people who need motivation, no I like to rock out to Blink-182 and I know all the matter what ‘crowd’ they are typically associated with. words to “Be Careful”. I can recite almost every song Rock is another genre that leaves people Taylor Swift’s ever made and hit the high note in “I will confused or scratching their heads. Honestly pretty always love you”. “Ese Hombre” is my comfort song while much anyone who thinks he/she listened to a rock song “Beige” is the song I listen to on a long drive. Why am I probably has. For example, Machine Gun Kelly’s whole telling you all this? Because, I am tired of seeing people’s Tickets To My Downfall album falls in the punk rock/ surprised faces whenever I turn on a song by Lindsey alternative rock category. Just because he tends to create Stirling or Weezer, and I dislike the hidden stereotype hip hop or rap songs, does not mean he is not able to associated with the genre of music a person listens to rock out too. The problem with saying, “I do not like versus the way a person presents his or herself. rock music,” is the fact that there are so many diverse When you think of people who listen to country subgenres falling under the rock music genre. There’s music, what comes to mind? Cowboy hats? Trucks? punk rock, rock and roll, hard rock, metal, traditional Fishing? For some reason, when people think of country rock, alternative, and so much more. Do not even get music there is no middle ground; they either cringe or me started with all of the subcategories of metal rock. smile enthusiastically. Oftentimes when people say they That is a whole other article! Many artists traditionally do not like country music it has nothing to do with sound associated with other genres have dipped their toes in or vocals, it is just the fact they are unable to connect to the rock genre. Take for instance, The Jonas Brothers. the singer. Country life is super different from city life, They are typically associated with pop music, yet some hence why it is so hard for urban dwellers to understand of their songs, such as “Year 3000”, could qualify as rock what ‘backroads’ and ‘kinfolks’ are. Now all of you and roll. You may be surprised to hear artists such as The country haters out there, I am about to blow your minds. Wallows, Lana Del Rey, Clairo, boy pablo, and twenty one Have you ever listened to Country Grammar by Nelly or pilots are either considered alternative rock artists or “Dance with Me” by Diplo, Thomas Rhett, and Young have made alternative rock songs. Rock is such a diverse Thug? If so, then you have definitely listened to country group of music and it would be a lie to say one has not music, whether you knew it or not. heard it at least once in their lives. Sometimes the rap and hip hop genres get a I do not know about everyone else, but if I hear bad reputation because of how certain artists, or people one more person sarcastically say, “You like this song?” who listen to that kind of music, present themselves. For or “I didn’t know you listened to this type of music”, I example, when some think of rap and hip hop, images might scream. It is so annoying when people assume of illegal substances or hot girls flash before their eyes. because of my prissy attitude or love for the color pink, However, there are some great rap and hip hop songs I only listen to pop or today’s hits. Truth is, music of all and artists out there that sing music about becoming types is for all people to enjoy, no matter what social successful through hard work and determination. clique one puts themselves into. So let me enjoy Summer “Coming Up” by Lupe Fiasco featuring MDMA is a great Walker and My Chemical Romance. Do not judge when I song about supporting loved ones and self-love. “I Can” dance to “Corazón Sin Cara” and “pov”, because there is by Nas is another amazing song about being successful “A Song for Everything” and I am determined to “Sing” it. and working hard to get to where a person wants to be. Other artists who constantly create inspiring, real music are Joyner Lucas, Common, and NF. Overall, the hip hop

22 | Opinion March 2021 What has Hulu done? BY DANIEL MCDONALD Staff writer Over the past 10 years, streaming services negative reviews, a loss of subscribers for have become overwhelmingly popular. Netflix is widely Hulu and maybe even an uptick in cable considered to be the “king” of streaming services, television purchases, which really goes against Hulu’s however, newer services - such as Hulu and Amazon cause. Hulu stated this decision was made after “Months Prime - have risen in popularity and offered many of negotiations”, but it is hard to believe Fox sports different shows to the “cable-cutters” (those who prefer networks drove Hulu away from continuing to have using streaming services vs. paying costly cable fees). streaming rights. Rather it seems Hulu had a change Hulu, however, recently made a decision that has made of heart so to say. The advertising team down at Hulu many unhappy. will most likely start to make changes as far as how the After being bought by Disney, Hulu saw companies go about their live sports, obviously due to an increase in subscribers as the streaming service the massive changes being carried out. now appealed to families and sports fans alike. Their Other local sports stations are also in jeopardy signature catchphrase, “Hulu has live sports”, remained of being dropped by Hulu. Big television stations and the same… for a while. Hulu + Live TV has now dropped networks are now in a state of concern after seeing what all local FOX Sports channels and is considering dropping happened to FOX Sports. To avoid being dropped, CBS local CBS networks as well. Subscribers of Hulu now only displayed a message on NFL Sundays asking fans to have the option to watch the nationally televised games, voice their desires to Hulu in order to watch their local which could consist of two teams the audience are not football team. Fans have cried out to Hulu to put an end interested in watching. This means watching live, local to the removal of local sports, but it does not seem like sporting events, such as Miami Heat or Tampa Lightning anything is working. Bottom line? If you are trying to games, on Hulu is next to impossible - unless the game watch local NBA or NHL games on regional Fox Sports is on national television. This could cause an increase in channels without cable TV, your options have dwindled. Photo courtesy of Hulu of courtesy Photo Hulu has gained a large audience in the past few years. In 2016, Hulu had 42 million subscribers and that number increased to 82 million in 2019 (Statistic cour·te·sy of Business of Apps.)

Opinion | 23 Gone, but not forgotten: mourning lost athletes BY DANIEL MCDONALD Staff writer

“There’s meaning in mourning”, said Robert Neimeyer, Ph.D., director of the Portland Institute for Loss and Transition. “And that mourning, he said, “is just as real with celebrities as it might be with someone we know personally.” Over the last few months several athletic celebrities have passed, many of whom have been mourned and remembered all over the world. These sports heroes all played a role in people’s lives, whether they provided a sense of comfort, nostalgia, happiness or entertainment. According to Neimeyer, “Anything we do that honors the person we have lost helps us in our grief.” Photo courtesy of Creative Commons courtesy of Creative Photo Some of the fallen athletes being paid tribute to A young Hank Aaron getting ready include the following: to bat. International soccer superstar Diego Maradon passed away Nov. 25, 2020 due to complications from a which put him at 16th on the MLB all time win list. Myocardial infarction. Maradona won the 1986 world cup with Three-time All-American running back Floyd Little lost his battle his home nation Argentina and was also named a joint winner to cancer at age 78. The former Denver Bronco passed away of the FIFA player of the 20th century. Jan. 1, 2021. Pro football Hall of Famer Kevin Greene passed away Jan. 18, 2021, Hall of Fame pitcher Don Sutton lost Dec. 21, 2020, due to what is believed to be a heart attack. his battle with cancer at the age of 75. Sutton had won more Greene played for four different teams in the NFL. Greene was than 300 games in his career for teams such as the an Army Reserve Veteran and had great respect to military Los Angeles Dodgers and the Los Angeles Angels. members and first responders. Jan. 22, 2021, marked the loss of African-American Another Hall of Fame MLB pitcher Phil Niekro passed baseball legend Hank Aaron, who hit a career total of 755 away Dec. 26, 2020. Niekro finished his career with 318 wins home runs. Aaron was 86 at the time of his passing, he died of natural causes. Cheer team champions BY NOAM BERNSTEIN be quarantined, it forced the team to Staff writer re-adjust the routine. “I feel with all the hurdles and things that just ‘weren’t the With some flips, jumps and a same’ this year, it fed our determination lot of spirit, the cobra competitive cheer to repeat our win,” said Gailey. team won the state championship for “Teamwork played a gigantic the second year in a row. After emerging role in our season this year, because if victorious from the Jan. 16 regional one person couldn’t make it, the whole championship, the team, led by coaches routine gets messed up,” junior Izzy Keen said. Patricia Gailey and Ashley Urso, headed courtesy Gailey of Patricia Photo to the state contest in Kissimmee on Gailey has realized how The Cobra competitive cheer team wins Jan. 21. In a three-minute routine, important a coach is, both as a mentor their second state championship in a row the 22 members of the team danced, in the gym and in life. When the season Jan. 21. cheered, flew in the air and tumbled presented obstacles, she was able to on the ground. After all teams had an step back and realize she was helping happy” to have been able to win the opportunity to showcase their talents, the the team make important memories. championship both times. judges reviewed scores and announced “I’m most proud of keeping our eye on As a newcomer to the sport, the winner. When the cobras heard their the long term goal and staying positive Junior Krish Patel had to adjust to school’s name called, a feeling of relief when it seemed as though the odds were the new admosphere. “As the season washed over them; they knew their work against us,” Gailey said, “We really progressed, I became more comfortable paid off. pulled together as a team when it with everything and it became more fun This season was particularly mattered most.” and enjoyable,” he said. After an exciting unique in that it took place amidst Keen said this cheer season first season, Patel said he is grateful the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. New was like no other. “It has been an to his coaches and teammates and is restrictions were put in place making emotional and stressful rollercoaster,” looking forward to winning states again it difficult to organize practices and she said, “but also was very fun to next year. competitions. No one on the team prepare for the championship.” Keen has Junior Sofia Varon said, “The contracted Covid during the season, been on the competitive cheer team for main thing I’m taking away from this however when those who had been in two seasons, and is “grateful and season is if you put hard work into contact with a positive case had to something, you will succeed.” 24 | Sports March 2021 Women score big in sports BY MADISON BARGANIER Copy editor

Feb. 3, 2021, cobras and dolphins joined forces for one sole purpose: to celebrate female empowerment. Out of dozens of flag football teams in the state, Park Vista’s girls’ flag football team was selected for an event sponsored by Nike and the Miami Dolphins as part of National Women in Sports Day. The Lady Cobras received new equipment, recognition on ESPN, CBS12, the Sun-Sentinel and an opportunity to participate in a team photoshoot celebrating women in the sports field. courtesy Romero of Pam Photo Senior Brianna Upson, who plays both center and corner, PVCHS girls’ flag football team participated in a was ecstatic when she found out the Miami Dolphins had event for the Miami Dolphin’s National Girls and chosen Park Vista for their event and “couldn’t wait to be Women in Sports Day. recognized for something [they had] worked so hard for.” Commodores football team when the player prior to her The photoshoot was only part of the big picture was benched due to a COVID-19 case. There, she was surrounding the day. National Girls and Women in Sports able to make history in the power 5 game. According to Day celebrates all female athletes as well as those who today.com, Fuller said she represented all the little girls are working to overcome male domination in sports one who wanted to play sports like she did. “I just want to tell game at a time. Women like Sarah Thomas, Sarah all the girls out there that you can do anything you set Fuller and Kim Ng, each of whom has broken sports your mind to, you really can. If you have that mentality all barriers recently. the way through, you can do big things,” she said. Sports fans across the nation talked about Upson said, “Knowing about Sarah Fuller history being made during Superbowl LV as the Tampa definitely does inspire me knowing that a girl just like me Bay Buccaneers became the first NFL team to play (and pushed hard for something she truly believed in and her win) the big game at their home stadium. However, most dreams have been accomplished. I am still in the stage overlooked the other historic event: Thomas being the of dreaming, believing and pushing to be the greatest first woman ever to officiate a superbowl. that I can be and knowing it’s coming alive for other Thomas stepped onto the football field after people is creating a better pathway for me and other college. She began officiating grade school and high women trying to achieve their dreams.” school games, then moved up to college where she built Football is not the only sport that women are a solid reputation. She was eventually recommended advancing. Ng, was recently hired by the Miami Marlins to NFL referee Gerry Austin, who hired her. In 2015, she as the first female major league general manager. Ng became the first woman to be hired as a full-time official started playing softball as a child and continued through for the NFL. In January, 2019, Thomas became the first four years of college at University of Chicago. In 1990, woman to be an on-field official for the NFL playoffs. Now she began her baseball career as an intern and worked she can add “Superbowl Official” to her list. her way up. Then in 1998, the Yankees hired her as an “I thought it was cool to see a woman referee in assistant general manager. By 2011 she was the senior one of the biggest sporting events,” said Senior London vice-president of baseball operations and became the Choice, a varsity volleyball player. “Football was always highest-ranking woman in the viewed as a manly sport, but her being the first female commissioners office. referee is definitely something that will be remembered. The list of barrier-breaking females does not Truly Thomas has set the stage for many other girls stop there. Bianca Smith recently became the first black to come.” woman to coach baseball in the minor league, Captain Thomas was not the only Sarah to overcome Sarah Kociuba is both the U.S. Air Force’s first female gender norms in the sports field. Sarah Fuller was the bomber pilot and the first woman to lead the flyover in first woman to ever play in a power 5 game in college Super Bowl LV, Cynt Marshall is the first black woman to football. She found a love of soccer at five years old and become a CEO for the NBA, the list goes on and on. Park became a goalie for Vanderbilt in her college years. In Vista is proud to honor these history-changing women, her senior year, she got the opportunity to play in the along with our own female athletes, who hope to be the SEC championship for soccer. Shortly after, Fuller was next to set the stage for girls to come. recruited to be the placekicker for the Vanderbilt Sports | 25 Girls’ bowling wins tri-county championship BY KAYLA SHIM Staff writer The girls’ bowling team finished strong this year. The team is folowing all of the CDC guidelines, They won the South Region, placed 3rd at the County though coach Lamb admits the pandemic has restricted Tournament and first at the Tri-County Championship. them, as they were not allowed to play as many games. Krystal Lamb, who has been coaching the team for three However, COVID-19 has not hindered the skill these girls years, said, “We usually get to compete more and are have. The girls practice once a week, Lamb said, “We able to do more bonding.” She believes that having a are able to win our regular season matches by being bonded team is very important because having no bond consistent with our bowling. There is no secret skill, only could affect how they are playing. Lamb also said, “We consistency of showing up for practice and playing have a great group of girls that made the best of what to win.” they had, but it really hurt us not having the full season.” Brassener said, “I can’t really say I’d want to According to the Sun Sentinel, the girls faced change anything we normally do, I just want to be able to “schools from Miami-Dade, Broward and Palm Beach go back to starting early, and having more tournaments.” counties.” Even with many competitors, the girls pushed COVID-19 has not altered much for the girls bowling through and came out on top. In the opening games of season, only making it shorter, which has not affected the finals, the girls won against Palm Beach Central. how the girls play. In the second match, they went against A&T Mourning The girls bowling team has made a new winning High School, winning and securing their spot in the streak for themselves, and have made new gains during championships. The Tri-County Championships were the pandemic. The girls have not come short of their double elimination so the Cobras beat A&T Mourning goals this year, only small obstacles they have gotten again to win the title. around. Congratulations to the girls bowling team for Junior captain Jennifer Brasssner said, “I feel making such feats in a time of struggle. relatively safe at practice because we wear masks and it’s not a contact sport so we don’t have to touch anyone else.”

Photo courtesy of Krystal Lamb Krystal of courtesy Photo From left to right: Senior Captain Kelsey Ganci, Senior Captain Emily Konz, Coach Krystal Lamb, Sophomore Ashley Konz, Sophomore Lindsey Fein, Sophomore Jenna Buckvar, Junior Captain Jennifer Brassner.

26 | Sports