In the News -Google Chrome Unleashed to Public -Economic Stimulus Bill status -Fate of the Economy

Features -Blink 182 reunites -Kelly Clarkson CD Release

Focus on: Spring ‘09 -Senior Dodgeball Game -What has Spring Break Become? -Spring Break bloopers

Staff Editorials -Too much focus on fashion? -School Violence

A Look at Sports -Athletes’ steroid usage -New season, new sports begin

Tribute to the Arts

*Special announcement: The Crusader would like to extend a warm congratulations to Julina Gamboa, sophomore, for her participation and award in DeVry University and Microsoft’s one-day Code Camp workshop on Saturday, January 26, 2009. The event was held to increase the interest in technology among girls. She represented Miami Sunset and Ms. Manicksingh in the regional event. At the end of the day, she was awarded $100 worth of

books.

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Volume XXVII March 2009 Issue 6

In recent weeks, Academy of Finance teachers have been diligently promoting their academy as well as booking an array of

guest speakers for their students. The most recent speaker to be welcomed into Sunset’s halls was alumnus Kenneth Rader, class of 1999. “It’smyfirsttimebackinthese halls. It’s the same. Quite weird,” he commented. Rader is currently the president and CEO of the Cereal Bowl, a franchise co-owned by his brother, Josh Rader, and close friend, Michael Glassman. The trio, now in their late twenties, took it upon themselves to open the franchise many years ago on a whim as college students. Even in times of economic hardship, it has expanded to other parts of the nation such as Washingon D.C. and Philadelphia; a relatively new concept, the Cereal Bowl takes the Starbucks ambiance and applies it to this predominantly breakfast and desert shop, which specializes in cereal, yogurt, and limited coffee recipes and combinations. “Towards the end of college, we decided that we actually wanted to pursue this

Cereal Bowl President Pays a Visit Rader advises seniors on the intricacies of business

Aura AltamirandaMiami Sunset Senior High School

Aura Altamiranda

Dr. Cox (left) and Rader (right) discussed business after his meeting with the seniors.

Daniela Feijoo

Mr. Yanowitz (left), leader of the Academy of Finance, shakes

hands with Rader (right) after his discussion with the seniors.

and I had never seen myself as an entrepreneur,” Rader said. They are now sponsored by such companies as General Mills and have appeared on news stations as well as the Food Network, which Rader credits to consistent “annoying” phone calls and e-mails intent on rallying support. A Cereal Bowl knockoff has also been spotted on the ColdStone menu. To that, Rader said, “The competition keeps you on your toes.” On the morning of February 27th, Rader reached out to an auditorium full of seniors presently enrolled in economic classes and during multiple periods answered a number of questions for potential entrepreneurs regarding the three

majors he and his partners studied. Kenneth, Josh, and Michael studied marketing, accounting, and operations management respectively. Rader admitted how difficult itwas delving into sucha capital-intensive corporation and advised against it, given the status of the economy. He mentioned that regardless of what business rookies choose to open, they must have a strong marketing technique. At first, he and hispartners relied on free publicity from the press, which at times was negative publicity accompanied with the positive; later on, they depended on referral marketing and uniforms—employees are required to go to work in Cereal

Bowl pajamas. At one point, a popular slogan called plenty of attention to the business, “The Cereal Bowl is the new way to spoon.” After the meeting with the students, Rader met with Dr. Cox and further discussed his business; as a result, Sunset students may have a shot at interning in their offices if allgoes well. The Coral Gables store is located on 1560 South Dixie

Highway for those interested in checking the scene out for themselves.

News

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2009-2010

SAT Test DatesMay 2, 2009June 6, 2009

(SAT 2010 test dates will not be available until mid-July 2009)

ACT Test DatesApril 4, 2009

September 12, 2009October 24, 2009

December 12, 2009February 6, 2010April 10, 2010June 12, 2010

Most of you have probably heard a song played on the radio and thought, This song is always on. This has to be the seventh time I’ve heard it today. How about when a great new comedic film is released and the following weekat school all you hear are bad, stuttering imitations of the movie’s key jokes followed by bellow after bellow of laughter; sure you’ve been through that. Well there’s something else you’ve probably heard thrown around these days. President Obama’s “Stimulus Plan” is on everyone’s lips, from top news programs like MSNBC and CNN, to comedy central’s John Steward and South Park, from the lips of college professors

Effect: Fate of Economy Rests on Stimulus PlanDesperate times call for desperate measures

Carlos EspinalArtist

to the lips of middle school students. Even though these words are being slung around casually, most people aren’t precisely aware of what President Obama’s plan is all about. The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009, or what is colloquially referred to as the Stimulus Plan, is a massive reformation bill set in motion in order to create jobs, stimulate economic growth, and buttress America’s middle class using techniques that will, in essence, “technologize” the nation’s infrastructure (similar to how the country became “mechanized” during the industrial

revolution). Areas that the ARRA bill plans on strengthening include the country’s energy independency, opportunities in education, affordability in health care, relief in taxes, and protection for those in greatest need. Backed by both houses of Congress, the bill is based heavily on proposals made by the President. As any economist will tell you, the only way to resurrect an economy out of a recession is to spend money. This is

ForAgainst

Senate

ForAgainst

ForAgainst

Senate

ForAgainst

36 voted against it

61 voted for it

188 voted against it

244 voted for it

Senate Vote House VoteSenate Vote House Vote SenateVote HouseVote

contrary to what people actually do during a recession. Since the layman doesn’t know what is good for the country as a whole and is only interested in providing for himself or his family, it is only logical to put his money away, refrain from spending, and try to wait out the tough times. Without anyone spending money, the economy will continue to fall deeper and deeper into recession until it becomes a full fledged depression. Tocounteract these effects, a government body usually increases its own spending in order to stimulate the country’s economy. What sets the ARRA apart from the

usual government stimulation plan is the sheer size of it. The President is not only trying to offset the recession but completely bulldoze through it. Some of the spending being done by the bill include $46 billion on transportation projects, $20 billion to modernize health information technology systems, $55 billion in state fiscal relief toprevent cuts in education aid and provide block grants, $6.4 billion to clean up nuclear weapons production sites, and $11 billion toward a so-called smart electricity grid to reduce waste. In total, with the House of Representatives and the Senate jointly spending roughly $1100 billion and $275 billion being collected in taxes, The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 is expected to pump $1372 billion into our country’s shriveled economic heartThese staggering numbers put The Economic Stimulus Act of 2008 to shame. When comparing spending costs, the ESA had pulled together a measly $152 billion. With so much money being thrown around, it’s no wonder that The Stimulus Plan is being talked about everywhere. What makes it such a hot topic though, are the debates about whether or not it will actually work. Economists and politicians across the country are arguing over the wisdom behind the President’s preferred means of stimulation. The teams are split evenly with roughly half going one way and half going the other. The Cato Institute and The Center of American Progress Action Fund have each released petitions, each signed by 200 economists, respectively disapproving of and praising the Plan. Whichever way you think the ARRA might pan out, there’s really no looking back. The country collectively backed Barack Obama when it voted him intoofficeasournewPresidentandnowit’stime to ride his curtails into the future of his AARA. For better or worse, we now stand before the next stage in American’s history.

Due to the economic crisis we are currently in, stores everywhere are closing. From stores like Fashion Bug to Macy’s, with nine of its stores collapsing, not even large companies are safe. Before, Starbucks coffeehouses were seen on every corner and it was common for multiple stores to be located ridiculously near each other. Two hundred of its shops are now closing down. Circuit City, the second largest electronics store in the U.S. after BestBuy,filedforbankruptcyattheendofDecember2007andintendson closing hundreds of its stores. They’re having closing out sales, sellingouteverythingthat’sleftforlessbeforefinallyclosingdown. Thesestores’closingsaremakingitevenhardertofindajob.With all the layoffs, getting an after school job, which should be a simple task, is now almost impossible. “This is the worst job market that I’ve seen since I’ve been doing this,” Mr. Yanowitz, leader of the Academy of Finance says. “It’s tough on the kids,” he adds, saying that before there were more jobs available for students before; now hardly anyone calls for employees. Imagine what this means for our seniors who are off to college. Even students who are usually nonchalant about such issues

as the current depression are greatly affected by the crisis. “I think we’re having a horrible economic meltdown, and it’s scary,” Nicole Smith, freshman, said Mrs. G. Gonzalez agrees, “It is a very scary sign of how poorly the economy is doing.” Will the economy improve soon? We’re not sure how long it will last or how much it will sting, but hopefully it won’t get much worse. National Intelligence Director Dennis Blaire says that the economic crisis is now the United States’s top “near-term security concern.” President Obama agreesthatsavingandcreatingjobscomesfirst. “I think things will bounce back. The economy runs in cycles, we’re going through a bad one,” said Mr. Yanowitz. “The stock market’s always the one to come back first,” headded. Hopefully it improves and businesses re-open as jobs are scarce because our economic downturn.

Cause: Businesses Continue to DissipateWoeful business owners forced to shut down

Mabel NunezStaff Writer

“ThePresidentis...tryingto...completelybulldozethrough[the

recession].”

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News

Google Chrome Finally Unleashed to PublicHow will consumers greet the new tool?

Aura AltamirandaEditor-in-Chief

Once again, Google is writing history in the PC industry with its latest scheme of cloud computing technology. Officially dubbed Chrome, thisrevolutionary tool in the making attempts to bridge the gap between all computer-processing tasks and make the web browser more efficient. Though not thefirstof itskind (Amazon,AOL,and Windows initiated their own limited versions quite a while ago), it is expected to have the most features. The idea behind cloud-

computing is relatively simple—as opposed to multiple computers with their fancy set-ups and expensive accessories, more basic Windows and Macs will be sold. These basics will only consist of a monitor, keyboard, and processor. In addition, the Google monopoly will be buying its place in computers on the market as a toolbar complete with organizational tools for every aspect of a user’s life. The best part: they come as freebies to the user. Similar toMicrosoft Office(minus the networking and media

aspect), this web-based software will house event organization on Google Calendar, photo editing on Picasa, video sharing and storage on YouTube, e-mail access on Gmail, and document and spreadsheet editing on Google Docs. Theoretically, hard drives

will become scraps of metal as all their contents are dumped into the Google database. For users who constantly switch from onlinetooffline,asynchingoption will be available to update the online storage. “Storage is an important component of making Web apps fiteasily into consumers’ and business users’ lives...We’re always listening to our users and looking for ways to update and improve our Web applications, including storage options, but we don’t have anything to announce right now,” said Google in a

“Storage is an important component of making Web apps fit easily intoconsumers’andbusinessusers’lives...We’realwayslisteningto

ourusers...”--Google

Thousands of people gathered at the Wyndham Orlando Resort for the 70th StateLeadershipConferenceoftheCareerEducation Clubs of Florida/Business Professionals of America. The conference took place from March 5, 2009 to March 8, 2009 with a schedule full of the 2009-2010electionsof theStateOfficerTeam,competitive events, keynote speakers, trips to Islands of Adventure and Universal Studios, leadership training and the Grand Awards Ceremony and Banquet. The theme of the weekend was “Blazing New Trails.” Miami Sunset’s Bryant Amastha, junior, accompanied by Mr. Terrence Williams, received first place with hisentrepreneurship business plan project. Out of 300 points, he took the gold with 298 points, second place coming far behind with 134 points. He created a video production company for his project that

Sunset Places in CompetitionBryant Amastha Ranks first place in CECF

Katerina SardiMiami Sunset Senior High School

Submitted by Bryant AmasthaBryant Amastha (far right) proudly wears his ID badge and pin at the CECF competition in March.

“He strives to achieve and succeeds, [he] takes all our excuses away that we can’t

do anything, and I include myself in that statement,”

Mr. Bacsa, CECF sponsor

Submitted by Bryant AmasthaBryant Amastha (far right) proudly wears his ID badge and pin at the CECF competition in March.

recent statement to ZDNet.True—cloud computing opens up a whole world of possibilities for both family and corporate consumers, but according to the natural laws of the world, with every good thing, a bad thing must follow (and vice versa). So what flaw could thisinnovative idea contain? Privacy breaches are all too common. The public already has enoughtroublefightingoffhackersand Google’s Chrome proposal is a risk they might not be willing to take. Face it—if someone who really wants your information has the resources to obtain it, they’ll findaway.Then,withsuchawidescope of information and global accessibility, there’s the whole “illegal copying of information” issue. Even one legal case could throw the entire structure out of whack. Of course, like all Google applications, Chrome will saturate our technological lives. Try it for yourself. You can download it now at www.google.com/chrome.

took about a month to complete, and was the first handicapped person toplace. “Perseverance is the key,” said Amastha about his accomplishment. In addition to his achievement, Amastha was elected as the 2009-2010 president of the team for the state of Florida; each state has its own respective club president. He gratefully accepted this role with a speech presented in front of 5,000 people at the conference on Thursday, March 5th. As president, he will participate in about fivetosixmeetingsthroughouttheyearbased almost anywhere in Florida, one location being Daytona Beach. Previously, Amastha started a recording label, and has played with such celebrities as Gloria Estefan. “Here is a student that has a physical disability. He strives to achieve and succeeds, [he] takes all our excuses away that we can’t do anything, and I include myself in that statement,” said Sunset’s CECF sponsor and Amastha’s financeteacher,Mr.Bacsa.HisprideinAmastha was apparent in every word. Amastha plans to run for the 2010-2011 National President when the time comes.

Concerts4/3 Daddy Yankee

@ James Knight Center4/8 Lady Gaga

@ Revolution Live

In TheatersThe Knowing

WatchmenFriday the 13th

I Love You, Man

On Broadway4/3 Miami City Ballet

@ Adrienne Arsht4/8 Jersey Boys

@ Broward Center Au Rene

Restaurant Recommendations

California Pizza KitchenFive Guys

The Cereal BowlSegafredo Cafe

Che Tito’s

Sporting Events4/3 Florida Panthers

@ Bank Atlantic Center3/30 Sony Ericsson Open

@ Tennis Center at Crandon Park

Video Game Releases

3/23 Guitar Hero Metallica

3/30 DDR Disney Grooves

4/6 The Godfather II

On DVD3/31 Marley and Me4/7 Bedtime Stories

4/ 7 No Country for Old Men: Collector’s Edition

4/14 The Spirit

CD Releases3/24 These Green Eyes

4/7 Sara Watkins4/7 So Many Dynamos

4/9 Lady Sovereign4/14 Dave Matthews Band

Community Service Ops

3/28 Hands On Miami Volunteer Orientation @

MIami Dade College 4/6-4/9 YVC Week of

Service

Blink 182 Reunites After 5 YearsThrilled fans welcome them back with open arms

Karla BarriosArts Editor

reunion has stunned and brought happiness to fans and people in the music industry. “There are no words to describe the way I feel, and just telling you that I’m happy isn’t enough,” said Jonathan Flannigan, sophomore, “because I’m more than just happy or excited or stunned, I’m ecstatic for what’s happening and what’s yet to come.” Furthermore, it has been confirmed that theband will be touring during the summer of 2009 and are also preparing for their world tour. “I can’t wait until they start touring so that I can go watch them,” said Karen Reyes, junior. “I have been waiting for the day they got back together. My friends and I had prayed for this day to come, and now that it’s here,

it’s unbelievable,” she added. “I had been checking their website everyday for new updates and when I found out that they were back together I was so

happy,” said Carla Santamaria, senior. “I’m going to bethefirstoneatalltheirconcertsandfirstinline!”she added. They are also back in the recording studio, preparing for their sixth album. “…with their last album their sound was more mature and it showed a different side to them, a mature side, and people related to that because as they grow up, so does their crowd. After all they went through, Travis’s plane incident, their former producer Jerry Finn dying, losing and gaining back the greatest friends they’ve ever had, their new album can only be something great that none of us can expect,” said Mario Santos, senior. Along with the tour and new album, the band has updated their logo, adding a sixth arrow to their previouslyfivearrowed“smileyface,”representingthe release of their sixth album.

“I’m going to be the first one at all their concerts and first in line!”

--Carla Santamaria, senior

Kelly ClarksonFun Facts:

-ShewasthefirstAmerican Idol winner in 2002.

-She shares her birthday with Barbra Streisand on April 24.

-She wrote the hit “Beacause of You” when she was sixteen and dedicated it to her parents.-AvrilLavigneco-wrote“Breakaway.”

-She worked at Six Flags when she was nineteen.

On the night of February 9th, at the 51st Grammy Awards, former Blink 182 members, TomDeLonge,MarkHoppus andTravis Barker,appeared together on stage to present the nominees for “Best Rock Album.” In addition, they announced the end of their four-year hiatus. After the band’s devastating break up in February of 2005, Tom DeLonge,vocalist/leadsinger,formedAngelsandAirwaves, while Mark Hoppus, bass/vocals, and Travis Barker, drummer, formed Plus 44. Theirfriendshipshavefinallybeenrenewedand the trio has come back to make music again. That same night, Blink-182 posted a message on their website that said: “Hi. We’re Blink-182. This past week there’ve been a lot of questions about the current status of the band, and we wanted you to hear it straight from us. To put it simply, we’re back. We mean, really back. Picking up where we left off and then some. In the studio writing and recording a new album. Preparing to tour the world yet again. Friendships reformed. Seventeen years deep in our legacy.” Fans get ready. Upon hearing the news, fans were thrilled. For some fans it was a shock and an overwhelming experience to see Blink-182 on stage together once more. “I feel overwhelmed and excited to see one of my all-time favorite bands getting back together,” said Monica Gonzalez, sophomore. “I can’t wait to see what’s coming up next,” she added. “I honestly screamed like a little girl when I found out they were getting back together,” said Jean-Michael Esteves, sophomore. “I can’t wait untilthenewalbumfinallycomesout,”headded. Certainly the announcement of Blink-182’s

4

Do you remember when Kelly Clarkson firstbecamefamouswithherfirst seasonwinofAmerican Idol? When she started, she was the girl next door with her debut single “A Moment like This,” and which gave off a vibe similar to that of Celine Dion’s. That later changed to a more upbeat, rock and roll vibe. “My Life Would Suck Without You”debuted at number ninety-seven in the Billboard Hot 100, then on January 28th, it was announced that the single advanced to the number one spot.

The position was previously held by Britney Spears’s single “Womanizer,” which was then pushed to number two. Thisisthefirsttimeinalongwhilethatoneof Clarkson’s singles has leapt so far. It’s believed that this album will be as successful as her 2004 album “Breakaway.” The background to the single “MyLifeWouldSuckWithoutYou”makes it a

All I Ever Wanted In Stores NowKelly Clarkson releases new album

Aura AltamirandaEditor-in-Chief

brilliant song. This album gives Clarkson the chance to win another two Grammys. For the album, Clarkson worked with One Republic front-man Ryan Tedder and many other producers. The deluxe edition of the album has four bonus features including the making of the album. It also contains several music videos which also show the making of her videos. Only one single from the album “All I ever wanted” has been released. This release will mark the fourth album in her music career. The next single from the album will be released sometime in March or April; it is called “If I Can’t Have You.”

“ThisalbumgivesClarksonthechancetowinanothertwo

Grammys.”

Features

5

the Crusader...is looking for recruits!

If you:--have an interest/ experience in journalistic writing,--have strong opinions,--are efficient in editing and proofreading,--enjoy drawing,--have experience with Adobe InDesign, AdobePhotoshop, Microsoft Word or are computer savvy in any way, then...

Please visit room 227 and see Ms. Carreira as soon as possible.

Knight LineMarch 27, 2009: Teacher WorkdayMarch 27, 2009: Cheerleading Car

Wash $5March 31, 2009: SGA Candidate

Debate Period 62 Months Until Graduation!

When people think of spring break, they think beaches, hot weather, boats, flowers, and lemonade. It is celebrated inCanada, Japan, Taiwan, Korea, China, the United States, as well as other countries. The week is usually celebrated between the end of February through the end of April, depending the country. Spring break for teenagers across American is a time to hang with friends and party. Have you ever wondered why we have a random week of school off? In the early days of America, spring break was a week to celebrate Easter and Passover. If you check a calendar, spring break usually coincides with the two holidays. Unfortunately, over the years the purpose of the break has been forgotten and has been used for other purposes. In Canada, they do use the break to celebrate Easter and Passover but the break is used more for something called Reading Week. Reading Week is a week off of school used to catch up on missing studies. In Japan it is simply for vacationing purposes. In America, we take it a step further. Believe it or not, the

partying vibe of spring break was started right after World War II where most people would head to Fort Lauderdale to hang out at thebeach. Ever since then it has become one of the most famous destinations for spring break. Fort Lauderdale’s popularity for blossomedwhen Colgate University’s men’s swim team went to practice in the beaches during the break. The popularity of the city increased afterthereleaseofthe1960sfilmWhere the Boys Are that was about college girls meeting college boys there on their spring break. This may sound harmless, and it was for a while. Unfortunately, spring break has become something completely different. In the 1980’s spring break was starting to get a little bit out of control. Take Cancun, Mexico for example. Traditionally, teenagers in America head to Cancun for spring break to binge drink, use illegal drugs, and have unprotected casual sex. In 1985, residents of Fort Lauderdalebecame upset with all the damage done by vacationers that local government passed a law to restrict parties in the area. That same

Cynthia Lopez Staff Writer

year the National Minimum Drinking Age Act was passed and raised the drinking age from 18 to 21. This caused many underage spring break goers to leave the country to celebrate spring break, hence Cancun. By the early 1990’s Fort Lauderdale’s spring break visitors went from350,000 to 20,000. People instead started heading to Daytona Beach and Panama City. Panama City unlike FortLauderdaleisalittlebitmoreappreciativeof the spring break goers. They help the economy of the city every year. Not all American teenagers can travel to Florida, however. For south central and mid-western teens, there is South Padre Island, Texas. Famous outside country spring break destinations are Cabo San Lucas, Acapulco, Mazatlan, Puerto Vallarta,Barbados, Jamaica, Bahamas, and of course Cancun. Even though it’s been given a bad name in the recent years, spring break is a wonderful time of the year and it is the probably the only time we can really enjoy our youth but still remember why we celebrate this week of relaxation.

“My friend and I decided to go to the fair like we do every time spring break comes around.

We we’re having so much fun on one of my favorite rides that we just couldn’t seem to get enough of it.

Every time it was over, we would ask to ride again. Maybe about the fifth time on that ride in a row we asked the guy controlling the ride if we could ride again without having to get back in line. He said okay as long as we didn’t puke. We were sure we’d be completely fine, but two minutes into the ride I started to feel a little queasy. We yelled at him to stop, but it was too late. By the time the ride stopped I had barfed all over the seats. It was so

embarrassing.” -Anonymous

“I know it was wrong, but one night my friends and I decided to go drive to my ex-

girlfriend’s house and write mean things on her car windows with paint markers. Most of my friends ended

up chickening out, but I grabbed the pen and bravely walked toward her Volkswagen Beetle. I was about to write

on the windows when I stared really hard inside. I saw her and another guy staring back at me with weird looks on their faces. I tried to play it cool and acted as if I didn’t see them and I wrote, ‘I love you Happy Birthday!’ and ran back to my car as fast as I could. The next week at school she came up to me and said ‘I appreciate what you wrote on my car, but it wasn’t my birthday.’ Little did she know I had

already told half of my friends about the situation. Every time we see her in the hallways now we

yell ‘Hey Birthday Girl!’”- Anonymous

What Spring Break Has BecomeWhat has changed between then and now?

Spring in Sunset

6

Esmeralda ZunigaPictured above is junior Lixannete Dedos.

Esmeralda ZunigaPictured above are (from left to right): Johana Carmona, Stephanie

Leal, Nana Carmona, Victoria Carmona, Mimi Carmona.

Senior Dodgeball Game

1st place 2nd place

Blood pumping in your ears, shouts coming from every angle, an adrenaline high that makes youpaceacrossthebattlefield,theterrorofuncertainty,thefearofgettinghit.Theseareallsymp-toms of a soldier in war. But on Tuesday, March 10, 2009, as opposing forces stared each other in theeyesanddaredeachothertomovefirst,whattookplacewasn’twarbutwasfairlyclose:dodgeball. ThedodgeballtournamentwasheldinthegymduringthefirstdayofFCATtesting.These-niors were led to the gym and watched as 16 pre-organized teams were pitted against each other in a battle of strength, cunning, and dodging of balls. The teams were required to have twelve members, ten players and two stand-ins, and were told to be wearing matching shirts for the games. “Walking into the gym on Tuesday was like walking into a really colorful closet,” said Hec-tor Montano, senior. The tournament started around 8:30 A.M. and lasted until 12:30 P.M. after which random teams were chosen to play against each other. The individual games lasted anywhere from two to ten minutes; some of the long ones leaving the audience on the tips of their toes, cheer-ing and booing at the teams. The winners of the tournament, “The Furious Fairies,” were awarded fast passes to Grad Nite ticket sales. Runner ups, like the “Mud Butts” and “Zamp,” were given no more prize than the joy of unleashing pain to their enemies. Although there were plenty of rules set in play to prevent injury to students (such as the “no head shots” rule) it seems that in the many rule infractions were left unnoticed in the heat of battle. Amanda “Bootsie” Castillo, senior and member of “Team Rocket,” was a victim of overlooked rules. During a game she was hit in the head not once, but twice, and no penalty was given to the opposing team. “It’s not a big deal. I tried to let the coaches know but it didn’t really matter. It was still a lot of fun,” said Castillo. After the main tournament random games were played to entertain the seniors before the end of the day. For teams that quickly lost during the tournament this was a chance to have the fun they had signed up for and regain some glory. Many games were played and some even had gim-micks such and the cheer leaders’ “Cheertards” versus a team composed of the hip hop team, or the foot ball team versus the basketball team. There was even a game in which kids that went to differ-ent middle schools battled each other. Previous senior classes have also enjoyed this gruesome activity. Cassandra Edmond, a Sunset Alumni, said, “Dodge ball was really fun, I can’t believe how many more teams you guys had this year.” Edmond’s year only had about ten teams but the fun of dodge ball seems to span the years of time.

3rd place

Carlos EspinalArtist

Seniors Battle It Out During FCAT Test Days

Photo Essay by Katerina SardiNews Editor

7

of us talent has taken a backseat to eye candy value. Most people base their favorite celebrities on no more than their looks. If a star wants to be noticed, he must do something outrageous rather than trying to improve in their craft. Within a matter of days critics everywhere begin judging what has been worn on the various carpets. E!’s Fashion Police is one of the harshest shows. Even when complimenting, they find away to offend and ridicule the stars. “She looks

unique, which always works for the Grammys, now if only we could get her to tone down the clown

makeup,” was said of Katy Perry in this year’s Fashion Police Grammy Edition. “Estelle has obviously been staying up too late watching too many Jetsons reruns,” was said of the singer, and about one of our favorite American Idol judges, “Paula Abdul’s extraordinary talent to turn every red carpet occasion into an epic disaster is amazing.” The critics need to lay off the stars when it comes to what they are wearing, and concentrate more on what matters, those who actually win the awards.

The Oscars, Grammys, and Academy Awards are a few of the many award shows that honor celebrities’ talents and achievements, so why does it seem as if all that matters to us is their attire? Before any show, there are many channels covering the red carpet. In fact there are more channels covering the red carpet then theactualawardsceremony.Thefirstthingstarsare usually asked is “What are you wearing?” The level of concentration put upon what the stars wear is ridiculous. These awardshows are meant to acknowledge those who have extraordinary talent, not who has the better stylist. How does the does the designer, color, or style of clothing a star is wearing relate to their talent? They don’t, so why focus on it? It diminishes the importance of the show and what it means to the winners. Imagine winning anawardonlytofindout,thatthestoryinvoguemagazineisn’taboutyouwinningfirstplacebutabouthow“lastseason”youroutfitappearedtobe. In essence, stars are treated like dolls. Speaking of a star’s talent instead of appearance is never given a second thought because for most

“She looks unique,now if we could only her to tone down the clown makeup.”

- Fashion Police

The Crusader

StaffADVISOR:

Juliana Carreira

Editorial Board:EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

& CENTER SPREAD:Aura Altamiranda

NEWS & FEATURES:Katerina SardiEDITORIALS:

Roselyn AngladeSPORTS:

Amberli PrietoARTS:

Karla BarriosARTISTS:

Carlos EspinalJohn Hernandez

Staff:Genesis AlvearKevin AmadorAdriana ArcosKarina Aswani

Christian CalzadillaGabriellle Cruz

Garret CulpBranden Duasso

Kiara EijoAmanda Escasena

Amanda HernandezMatthew Jordan

Cynthia LopezMabel Nunez

Juan OrtizAngie QuezadaAlexandra SalasEnrique SengerStephen SinghMaricielo SolisWilliam Valdes

Jacqueline VienesAliana ZamoranoEsmeralda Zuniga

Please visit the Student Press Online link on the Sunset website. The Crusader is a monthly publication of Miami Sunset Senior High School. 13125 SW 72 ST

Miami, FL, 33183.(305) 385-4255. The views expressed are solely those of The Crusader staff. The Crusader welcomes signed letters to the editor which may be edited for content. Please bring to

room 227.

Fashion Exceeds Talent Recognition Mabel Nunez

Staff Writer

Juan OrtizStaff Writer

See No Evil, Hear No Evil, Speak No Evil Adminstration attempts to hide school violence from students

Critics focus on artists’ fashion sense rather than talent

As one recalls all of the high school clichés, there is one prevalent one amongst all of them: school violence. Nearly all high school students have had a brush with school violence, intentional or not. Most students see it as an inevitability; others think it to be a display of immaturity amongst their peers. Whatever the case, one thing is for certain--school violence happens. It may happen to you or your friends, but rest assured that it surely happens. I admire how Sunset’s administration handles the violence quandary within its halls. They disable the violence and quickly drag the perpetratorstotheofficetoexacttheirpunishmentand move on. Some students have donned it the “See no evil, do no evil” approach, but the reality of it is that the student body remembers the act of

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Editorials

violence, often perpetuated through hushed rumors, but don’t remember the consequences that were paid on account of their actions simply because they didn’t see them happen. Sunset’s administration should handle this problemwith amoreflamboyant approach.Theadministration should make examples of the bullies, showing students the harsh consequences that await them if they choose to act out. Perhaps the very act of showing students what the negative actions of others results in can lead them away from violence’s ugly path. Imagine your name and actions being announced publicly through the PA. All of that is enough to make any teenager cringe in embarrassment, thus creating another reason for studentstoavoidsolvingtheirproblemswiththeirfistsand consider talking their problems over.

From left to right: Monica Gonzalez, Rachel Williams, and Beatrice Corbett, sophomores pose using the hear no evil, see no evil, and speak no evil signs.

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When watching a game, be it professional or high school, chances are you are watching athletes who are using steroids. Steroid use is much more common than is led on. Most young athletes can agree that the competitive drive to win is deeply rooted. From a young age kids are exposed to professional athletes doing whatever it takes to be the best, and unfortunately that often means using performance enhancing drugs. It is easy to see why young athletes sometimes feel the need to use steroids. Besides the obvious glory of bragging rights and the satisfaction of beating personal records, often times high

The Badminton game took place in our gym on Thursday February, 26 at 3:00 P.M. The game was between Sunset, Varela and Reagan. There were eight different games, four singles and four doubles. At the end of it all Sunset beatReagansixtofour,andtiedwithVarelafivetofive.Thecoach,Ms.Ball-LloveraplayedBadmintoninHighSchool,andthatiswhyshecoachesitfourtimes a week, Monday through Thursday. Her players really seem to enjoy playing the sport. Gizelle Espinal, sophomore, said “Badminton’s the best, it’s just awesome.” Miriam Banos, sophomore, agrees and adds, “I just have fun with it.” Daniela Fernandez, sophomore, mentioned, “It’s been a great experience.” “We have good players, and we have a good chance of winning a lot this year.” Taylor Brehnan, sophomore, agreed by saying “we have a good chance of going to districts” All players played great, but the score says it all.

Spotlight:BadmintonAmanda Escasena

Staff Writer

school athletes take steroids in order to get college scholarships or a position on a professional team. In most amateur and professional sports, the athletes who win sponsorships, championships, scholarships and fame are those with the greatest strength, speed or endurance. Each sport requires specificskills,suchastheabilitytokickaballacertainway or hit a home run. Doing so with not just excellent but extraordinary strength, speed or endurance makes the difference between a good player and an elite player. There is a growing number of athletes who suffer from tunnel vision and the only thing they seem to be able to see is winning at all costs. Steroids are an

unnatural way to become a better athlete in general. Steroids increase muscle mass, strength and stamina,

but at what cost? The truth is the long-term effects of these drugs haven’t been scrupulously studied. And short-term benefits aredefinitely outweighed bythe side-effects. Although steroids may increase lean muscle mass, strength, and the ability to train longer and harder, the serious side effects of steroids are dangerous and may not be reversible. The minor physical side effects

of steroid use include acne, oily skin, excess hair growth, and deepening of the voice. The more serious side effects of steroid use includes an increased risk of cancer, increased risk of heart andliverdisease,jaundice,fluidretention,highblood pressure, changes in blood coagulation, increased risk of atherosclerosis, swelling of the soft tissues of the extremities, obstructive sleep apnea, stunted growth in adolescents, masculine qualities in females, feminine qualities in males, and even infertility. Now the psychological side effects are a different issue entirely. Steroids have been reported to increase a person’s aggression or lead them to become more violent, hence the term “roid rage.” Research shows that extreme mood swings can also occur. Depression is often seen when the drugs are stopped, which can easily lead to dependence on the dangerous drugs. Researchers further report that users may suffer from paranoid jealousy, extreme irritability, delusions, and impaired judgment stemming from feelings of invincibility. Steroids are commonly used by professional and student athletes alike. Although steroids do improve physical abilities it does not change the fact that steroids have grave consequences associated with usage. Steroid use can easily ruin an athlete’s credibility, take Barry Bonds and Alex Rodriguez for example. Steroid use can also easily destroy a life with all the dangerous physical and psychological side-effects they cause.

The boys Water Polo team played against Palmetto High on Thursday February, 26 at Miami Dade Kendall Campus at 8 P.M. The game started with Palmettoscoringthefirstpointinthe quarter. With the team trying as hard as they could to score a point, Palmetto’s goalie didn’t give them the opportunity. The firstquarterendedwithPalmettoin the leadwithfive points andSunset with none. In the second quarter Sunset scored its firstgoal. In that quarter Palmetto didn’t score at all, Sunset was protecting the net well. During the third quarter Palmetto scored seven and Sunset still only had one. Sunset fans were getting restless and so was head coach Busta, who was yelling out pointers for the team while they were playing. In entering the last quarter Palmetto scored four more points while Sunset scored only one more. In the end, Palmetto beat Sunset 16 to three. A team member from Water Polo, Gino Palma, a freshman explained how he and his team could improve for their next game by “getting faster

SportsSteroid Usage

Has the strive for perfection driven athletes too far?Amberli PrietoSports Editor

“Steroidshavebeen reported to increaseaperson’saggressionorleadthemtobecomemoreviolent,hence

theterm‘roidrage.’”

WP Boys Give Best EffortsAdriana Arcos

Staff Writer

and working more as a team.” Another team member is Anthony Hernandez; sophomore explained how he felt his team performed. “We did well especially since we played against a really good team and since we only have nine players we have to swim the whole game and it gets tiring.” Hernandez believes that as a team that they “need to practice a lot more, way more swimming,” so that they don’t get as tired as quickly. All in all our Water Polo team did the best that they could; it wasalong,toughgame.Let’sseeifthe Water Polo team takes their own team members’ advice and works even harder for next time, which hopefully will lead them to success.

Sunset’s Water Polo team gives its best efforts.

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The Sweet Invitation Of Sleep All Grown Up

I’m over the algebra, bad lunch, and drama.I’m ready to get out and move out from mama.Have a new life without him bothering me.Enjoy life and feel the breeze.Forget the liars, stealers and scam-mers.Its time to bring the wrenches and hammers.I’ve got to build a new life and get rid of the old.I’vegottofindthesilverandturnitinto gold.I listen, I see, I feel, I learn. Everybody had his or her chance and now it’s my turn.Through this darkness I see light, I see my future and it’s looking bright.And although my responsibilities are becoming large.I’m all grown up and taking charge.

By: Cynthia Lopez

The sweet invitation of sleep extended no further. Instead, violent bolerosofflamesservedto cattle the mind and exhaust the eardrum. Itwasthisflurryofsound that shook him to consciousness. Along with the brilliant ray to which his eyes succumbed, the man awakened to a scene painted in hellish gunfire.Thistypenever imagined in any of his nightmares. He struggled to pick himself up, the body rearing forward with the threat of each tremor. The

bursts beat heavily oriented images into his head. Each bent heavily oriented images into his head. Each one brought the man lower in his stance. His feet nearly dragging under him, curiosity pushed him a bit closer, the haze of a distorted image, now growing a bit clearer. The man strained to lift his head. His eyes squinted to focus on the sky above. This look of intense fear struck him to one knee. His body grew weak, his complexion a ghostly pale white,

his muscles tensed. Yet his eyes grew wider with each second, sapping every bit of energy he could muster in focus.Theballofflamesscreamed darkest intent. Each second peered upon it. Its size increased, the whole picture of senility slapping death closer to the cerebellum. Consciousness crept away, as the man extended his hand to the invitation.

By: Enrique Senger

NERO

From the rustle of the leaves, Through the warm breezeTo the Frisbees in the air,Flying without care. From the ripples in the lake all the kids make, Totheflappingofthewings,The home bound birds bring. From the rays of the sun,That through everything runs,To the closing of doors,For coats are needed no more.From the blooming of theflowers,duringalldaylight hours. To the winding of the clocks, forward to the hour that we dock.Spring is almost here,Not much longer to fearFor all the cold will be gone And Miami will belong, to the warm once more.

Spring By: Aliana Zamorano

M A R C H

By: Branden Duasso

Not all poems have to rhyme,I think it’s a big waste of time.What’s the big deal with the cat and the hat?And the little boy Sam with the ham?

They’re just words that sound the same,more words that I can name.like red and bed, fed and led,and words off the top of your head.

Not all poems have to sing a song,it’s not a sense of right and wrong.Some poems rhyme,others take time,to make them sound strong.

Never will I sit,forIwillthrowafit,to come up with rhyming words.

Rhyming Words By: Aliana Zamorano

LUCKYBy:

Alexandra Salas

By: Jeffery Saavadra

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11

THUNDER

LOVE IS ......

I want to tell you the truthOf how you’re a bookmark in my

youth.When I look in your eyes

I see pass the skiesWhere there’s a future with you,And so I know your love is true.

A kiss in the rainJust rids of all pain,

And when I hear the thunderI can’t help but wonder

If I’m always on your mindYet I still know that you are mine.

The feelings inside Are hard to describe,

And I know that when I go downYou always be around

To lift my spirit And then you’ll hear it

The mixed tape of my loveThat is as perfect as above.

Even in times of despair I can’t help but stare

At your smileThat warms me for awhile, And all I do is smile too.All I say you know is true

Sohereitis…ILOVEYOU!

By: Amanda Escacena

Lo v e i s … .L o v e i s t h e g r e a t e s t

f e e l i n g ,L o v e i s l i k e a p l a y .

L o v e i s w h a t I f e e l f o ryo u ,

E a c h a n d e v e r y d a y .L o v e i s l i k e a s m i l e .L o v e i s l i k e a s o n g .Love i s a g r e a t emo t i o n ,

T h a t k e e p s u s g o i n g s t r o n g .I love you with my heart , My b o d y a n d s o u l .

I l o v e t h e w a y I k e e p l ov ing ,

With a love I can’t cont ro l . By: Juan Ortiz

By: John Hernandez

TIGER

By: Robert Fernandez

Eternal Sunshine

By: Karla Barrios

H e a d l e s s

By: Carlos Espinal

S p r i n g i s h e r e , I t c o m e s a r o u n d

a n d g o e sE a c h a n d e v e r y

y e a r ,T h e l e a v e s c h a n g e

c o l o rA n d t h e c h i l d r e n F r o l i c i n t h e d a y,

W h y i s s p r i n g h e r e ?

I t w a r m s o u r h e a r t ,

F o r t h e c o m i n g o f s u m m e r .

BlossomBy: Stephen Singh

By: William Valdes

L i n d a ’ s L u c k y D a yB y : K i a r a E i j o

TherewasonceagirlnamedLindawhohadnoluck.Shewasn’tthemostpopular girl in school, but she had really good grades and she was in the marching band playingflute. Oneday,Lindawasonherwaytobandclassandsomeonebumpedherandshefell. When she fell a boy named Jorge came to her and he saw that she needed help. “Areyouokay?”Jorgeasked.Lindalookedawaybutthensheglancedathim.“No,butI would really appreciate it if you could help me,” she answered. “What’s your name? Ihaven’tseenyouaroundschool,”heasked.“Linda,LindaDelgado,”Lindareplied.“What’s yours?” she asked. “Jorge, Jorge Espinal,” he responded. “Where’s your next class?” he asked. “I have band next. Now I have to go because if not I’ll be late,” she answered. “I could walk you to the band room if you want,”hesaid.“Sure,I’dlikethat,”Lindareplied.Theywalkedtothebandroomandshegottoherseat.“Thanksforwalkingme,Jorge.”Lindasaid.“NoproblemLinda.Hey I was wondering if maybe you could go out with me,” he asked. “To hang out, okay, but we’re hanging out as friends because I hardly know you,” she replied. “Great…SoI’llseeyoulater,”hereplied“Jorge?”sheasked.“Yes,Linda,”heresponded. “Thanks for helping me today,” she said. “You’re welcome.” Jorge left the bandroomandshetookherfluteoutofitscaseandthenshestartedtuningherself. After that, she started playing until the band teacher Mr. Jones came and started conducting.WhenhestartedconductinghesawthatLindawasdistracted.“Lindawhyare you daydreaming while I’m trying to teach my class?” Mr. Jones asked. “Oh. I’m sorryMr.Jones;itwon’thappenagain,”Lindaanswered. Whenshestartedplayingagainsheplayedwithfeelingandemotion.“Letmehear you play the second movement of West Highlands Sojourn,” Mr. Jones ordered her. Whensixthperiodended,Mr.Jonestoldhertocometohisoffice.“Yourperformanceon West Highlands Sojourn sounded marvelous. You did your crescendos and decrescendos really well and I haven’t heard play like that in a while,” he complimented her. When she was going to the bus, she saw that Jorge was there and she sat next to him. So, for the rest of the day, they became the best of friends.

E p i c H e r o e s !

By: Robert Fernandez

Hiram

Turtle

By: Robert Fernandez

By: Robert Fernandez

R a w r

Hungry L

By: Karla Barrios

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By: Amanda Escasena