TIMES The Miami High Times june 2014 91st Year, No. 5 www.Miamiseniorhigh.org

Miami High

The Wiz

Continued on Page 20

By Roxanna Soto

As you walked from class to class you kept seeing flyers advertising a musical for only five dollars, open to everyone. At lunch you overheard your friends gossiping about making plans to attend. The day of, you saw students rushing to the theatre dressed in their costumes for rehearsals before the show. You got to the door, paid your five dollars, took a seat next to your friends, and waited for The Wiz to begin. On May 21st, the Miami High Thespians and drama students, led by drama teacher Ms. Brooks, performed a musical called The Wiz, which is a soulful adaptation of the classic story of The Wizard of Oz. About 30 Miami High students devoted their time and effort to the production. Actress Yesenia Sotelo, who played the roles of a Munchkin, Winky, and a Kalidah, said, “The thing I enjoyed most was acting on stage and having to stay focused and in character.” “I like how close I got with some people. I

enjoyed the friendships and bonds I’ve built with them,” said junior Jomarie Santiago, who played the role of the Yellow Brick Road. To Ms. Brooks’ knowledge, there has never been a musical held at Miami High in her four years as drama teacher . So why start now? “I looked at the talents of all the students and thought about taking it to the next level,“ she said. “I chose The Wiz because it’s funny and a lot of people can relate. Also we have a state of the art theatre, and I wanted to put it to use.” The play received a lot of support and not just from the drama department. The EESAC committee financially supported the show. Woodshop teacher Mr. Wilson helped build the set, and sewing teacher Ms. Walcott helped make the costumes, said Ms. Brooks Drama students, however, did most of the hard work. Junior Alexia Ubiera, who played the role of a Munchkin in the show, said, “The hardest part of it all was putting it together

Class of B16 Dreams

By Karla Escobar

As all of us sophomores said, “FINALLY, A CLASS FIELD TRIP!” It actually happened and it was a success! The sophomore class field trip took place on May 22nd at the Scott Rakow Recreational Center on Miami Beach. A lot of sophomores were able to make it. Jaquelyn Perez, Class of 2016 secretary, said, “Since the sophomore class has over 500 students, we had to make a list of criteria to be followed in order to attend and about 135 sophomores were eligible to go.” C/O 2016 vice president Grace Marro said the eligibility requirements were to have at least a 2.0 GPA, no more than 10 unexcused absences, couldn’t be on the delinquent list, and couldn’t have ever gone to SCSI. Many of sophomores were wondering who picked to go to the Scott Rakow Recreational Center. “We class officers gathered with our wonderful advisor Mrs. Gutierrez, and we had choices, but we decided on the one that sounded the best out of all of the choices, and that was the Scott Rakow Recreational Center,” said Jaquelyn Perez.

Students were mostly thinking about what to wear to the fun trip. Shaina Requena and Zafiro Guerrero, sophomores, had both wished to go in their own comfortable clothes, but unfortunately, according to the class officers, students had to wear the school uniform or the new Class of 2016 T-shirts. This field trip was a fun experience for the class of 2016. You can say they were all looking forward to it. Hidrys Morales said, “I wanted to go because we never had been on a class field trip, and I was happy that they finally did something for us sophomores.” Sharon Fuentes said she wanted to go because it was like a little get-together with all of her fellow classmates. Luis Hernandez said, “I’ve been looking forward to this field trip since the beginning of the year from hearing how much fun class of 2015 had on their sophomore field trip, and it just seemed like a great time to spend with good friends.” Zarai Huete was looking forward to a break from doing work at school all day. Others students couldn’t look forward to the class field trip because they weren’t able to attend due to the fact that they couldn’t meet the requirements to go. Steve Gutierrez mentioned,

Top: Students playing basketball in the gym. Bottom left: Kristy Castellanos playing pool. Bottom right: Angel Castro having fun playing ping pong.

Jomarie Santiago, Gracia Kabuanseya, Cesar Collado, Ms. Brooks, Isabel Tucen, Jefer Medina, azand Alexandra Hernandez led the production of The Wiz.

2 News The Miami High Times June 2014 91st Year, No.5

Fun in The SunBy Grace Marro

It’s mid-June, and you’re sitting at home watching re-runs of “Spongebob”. You’ve eaten everything in the cabinet, and you have absolutely nothing to do. And especially with the scorching heat, who wants to go outside? While you’re stuck at home with nothing productive to do, MHS students have some suggestions. Sophomore Barbara Cruz said, “Rapids Waterpark in West Palm Beach is a super fun place to go to cool off from the summer heat.” Junior Manny Melenciano said, “Skyzone is an indoor trampoline park in Doral that’s a great place to break a sweat.” Sophomore Carlos Moncada suggests for those who want to get fit over the summer to get a membership in a local gym. Everyone has their favorite activity to do over the summer, whether it’s reading or exercising. “Hanging out with my teammates,” said junior Jonathan Marrero, “going to the park

to play volleyball, and having a great time on whatever crazy adventure we end up in are my favorite things to do over the summer.” Freshman Ana Matta said that she enjoys staying home and reading whatever books she finds online. Many people hate staying in Miami all summer and go out of town. Sophomore Joanna Travieso suggests going to Cuba because, due to the short distance from Miami, the ticket is less expensive than going somewhere “extravagant like Europe”, and it has amazing beaches. “My favorite summer activity is to go to the Keys and go out on the boat,” said junior Veronica Pire. Similarly, junior Christian Negron says that he will spend a lot of time on his boat in the Bahamas. Some MHS will earn their community hours over the summer. Sophomore Brandon Perraza

SOURCE: ILIKEITFUNNY.COM/KEEP-CALM-SUMMER-IS COMING

“Summer afternoon—summer afternoon; to me those have always been the two most

beautiful words in the English language.” ― Henry James, famous American writer

Stings plan for the futureBy Tierra Davis

The school year is almost over, which means that seniors will be leaving high school. Many seniors have an idea of what they’re doing after they graduate, while others have no clue. “I think the reason why some seniors have no idea what they’re going to do after senior year is because they haven’t come to the reality that next year they won’t be in high school anymore,” says senior Jenny Fernandez. Many Miami High seniors are going to attend Miami- Dade “I’m going to a community college because it’s cheaper than going to a university,” says senior Jason Velazquez. “I’m going to Miami-Dade so that I can stay near my parents and help my mom,” says senior Ony Gonzales. Some seniors going to Miami Dade are staying with their parents until they can save up and move out. “My

mom is okay with my decision to stay in her house as long as I stay in college and pay some of the bills,” says senior Gleiby Vidal. Other parents actually want their children to stay with them while they’re in college. “I have enough money to move out of my parents’ house, but they want me to stay to help them out,” says senior Gofran Itteam. “Since I have a little sister, my mom needs my help around the house,” says senior Ricardo Arias. For other seniors, next year will be in a 4 year university. “I’m going to St. Thomas University and doing the 4 year nursing program,” say senior Raven Bygrave. “After high school I will be attend Florida international University,” says senior Ashley Gomez. “I decided to go to a university instead of going to Miami Dade because I wanted to have a college experience of being on my own, “

While some seniors are continuing their education, others have chosen to just start working after high school. “After I graduate, I’m going to take a break from school and work at a restaurant so that I can start to save up my money to move out of my parents’ house,” says senior Samantha Gomez. “I’ve realized that school really isn’t for me, so I decided to just start fixing cars after school,” say senior Michael Lopez. Other Miami High students have no idea what they’re going to do after they graduate. “I haven’t really made a decision on if I’m going to college or if I’m going to start working,” says senior Bryan Sanchez. “I haven’t really decided what I will be doing after high school. This summer I’m going to take a break from school to figure out what my plans are,” says senior Mary Lopez.

volunteers at Boys and Girls Club by playing with the children. Freshman Dasmi Reyes volunteers at the Kiwanis Summer Camp here in Miami working with children that range from ages 7-13 and earning 200+ community hours. When summer temperatures in Miami reach into the 90s, students look for ways to cool off. Sophomore Nicholas Curet said, “I like the beach because it’s a beautiful place when the sun is out and you can play beach volleyball, have a barbeque, and much more.” Sophomore Kimberly Gonzalez, on the other hand, prefers the pool because, “I really don’t like the mess that the sand makes,” she said. For the graduating Stingarees, this summer may be a lot different than others because some of them are off to college. Senior Emperatriz Lopez said, “ I’m going to Miami-Dade

College Honors program in the fall and very excited to leave high school so I’m preparing for college this summer.” Senior Raven Bygrave, who got a full scholarship to St. Thomas University, is also preparing

for her fall trip to college. Although last summer was fun, expectations for summer 2014 are higher. Junior Aileen Fonseca said, “This summer will definitely be filled with more adventures now that I have a car.”

MS. QUINAZ WITH FEA MEMBERS (LEFT TO RIGHT) NIDIA TELLEZ, AURORA IZQUIERDO, JESSICA TROCHEZ, AND EMELY TELLEZ.

FEA Celebrates Teacher Appreciation Week

Ms. Quinaz, advisor of Future Educators of America, reports that May 12-16 was Teacher Appreciation Week where the club celebrated by giving out goodies to every teacher. The theme was Superheroes. On Monday they gave out chocolates with a small poem; on Tuesday, masks with another poem; on Wednesday, goodie bags in a cup; on Thursday, a keychain; and on Friday, they set up breakfast for the teachers. (By Elizabeth Perera)

3News The Miami High Times June 2014 91st Year, No.5

By Fabuola Pierre

You wake up, go to school, and endure another day, another month, and another year of failing classes, not making the basketball team, going to CSI, and being socially awkward. You vow to make a change and be better next year so you start setting your goals now. The students at Miami High have different goals for next school year. Freshman Alexandria Gonzalez wants to get straight A’s. Brandon Cosajay, another freshman, says, “I want to make the honor roll at least once.” Sophomore Carlos Moncada wants to improve his grade point average. Sophomore Emmanuel Hernandez says, “I want to get an award for one of my classes.” Some goals, however, aren’t school-related. Junior Randolph Gonzalez says that he wants to gain more weight and bench more. Junior Luis Mejia wants to get and keep a job for more than six months. To achieve their goals, students plan on working extremely hard. Randolph Gonzalez says he will gain more body weight by eating more meat and getting weight training next

year to build his muscles. Sophomore Malena Pendola plans to pass the ACT and SATby buying the practice books andstudying for at l east 30 minutes

or more every day. Freshman Javier Verde wants to join a sport, and to do so, he says, “I plan on working on my cardio so I can be the best at whatever I eventually choose to do.” Goals originate from different sources. Emmanuel Hernandez decided on his when he saw all the people this year win awards and he wasn’t part of them. Malena Pendola says her goal to pass the SAT and ACT started once she began high school, and a multitude of people told her to begin practicing for those future tests. Randolph Gonzalez says that he started to become uncomfortable with how thin he was, so he decided to make a change to boost his confidence and pride. Ninth grader Javier Verde’s goals began the year he entered high school after seeing so many athletes walk the halls of Stingtown. Some students’ goals reach beyond high school. Junior Jason Menéndez’s goal is to graduate and go to a decent university, which was instilled in him from a young age. Junior Sabrina Ramos wants to get on “American Idol” and eventually become a worldwide singer; her

New year, New me

By Gabriella Sanchez

Endless and exasperated sighs of relief emerge from thousands of students’ mouths as the 2013-2014 school year finally comes to a close. It was a long year, and there were many obstacles to conquer such as passing classes, completing requirements for graduation, and taking standardized tests such EOC and FCAT. Goals set at the commencement of 2014 were either accomplished or forgotten. Others were even reset for the succeeding year Some students feel like they accomplished a lot this year. Jonathan Torres, a senior, said this year he was a better student and took part in more things than before. Sophomore Luz Cuero said, “During the 3rd grading period, I

received straight A’s.” She also stated that she was appointed Historian for the Women of Tomorrow club. Freshmen Ellen Garcia was glad to report that she passed most of her classes this year. Sophomore Galilea Campos finally completed some community service hours with the Interact club, though she’s not a member of the club. However, throughout the year, you don’t always have sunny days. Storms come roaring by to make your days gloomy. For some students, many goals remained unmet. Sophomore Michelle Rodriguez was disappointed that she wasn’t able to take the Photoshop Certification Exam offered in Photography class. Jonathan Torres wished he could’ve run for class or club officer positions his final year at MHS.

Senior Chelsea Oseda’s biggest let-down was finding out she didn’t do as well as she had hoped on something, like a test. “My biggest disappointment this year is becoming distant from people I knew last year,” said freshmen Cindy Lozada. On the bright side, just because students didn’t arrive at the finish line in the race to achieve goals, doesn’t mean they’ll never make it. “I hope to pass all my college classes in the upcoming years in order to pursue my career in medicine,” said Senior Chelsea Oseda. Sophomore Luz Cuero stated that she hopes to take classes at Miami-Dade College next year and pass the PERT and ACT exams. Sophomore Hector Menendez hopes to be a better student in his

The future’s in your hands

Next Year’s GoalsClass of 2016 President Melissa Carcamo says,

“To kick off the 2014-15 year with an unforgettable homecoming full of fun surprises and new ideas and then

organize the ring ceremony.”

Junior Raquel Espinoza says, “To focus more and make education my main priority.”

Sophomore Angel Espinoza says, “To be more involved in school and my club.”

Freshman Cindy Gonzalez says, “To join the school volleyball team.”

goal started five years ago when she started to embrace her singing talent. To have new goals, you mighthave had old ones. Javier Verde says his goal for this year was to stay out of major trouble and get involved as much as possible which he said was, “Better said than done.” Freshman Caroline Molina says her goal for this year was to lose at least ten pounds and she well exceeded her goal by losing 27. Sophomore Henry Lopez’s goal

was to learn how to play a new instrument, which was a guitar, and next year he wants to perfect it. Achieving a goal takes focus and determination. Junior Ashley Perez says she achieved her goal of bringing up her GPA to the graduation requirement of a 2.0 by staying up nights and going the extra mile. In order to get better with his batting swing junior Marlon Tejeda practiced his hitting in recreational baseball six days out of the week for three to five hours a day.

In order to get better with his batting swing junior Marlon Tejeda practiced his hitting in recreational baseball six days out of the week

for three to five hours a day.

Chorus Chorus teacher Dr. Kunze reports that the chorus is looking forward to performing at the Miami High graduation ceremony on June 3rd at UM’s BankUnited Center, and has been busy preparing for the ceremony. The chorus will perform the traditional piece “The Lord Bless You and Keep You” and “For Good” from the Broadway musical, Wicked. (By Ingrid Sanchez)

Interact Club sponsor Mr.Perez would like to congratulate Interact’s new president Andrea Hernandez, first VP’s Kevin Varela and Sebastian Saavedra, second VP Vladimir Cejas, treasurers Kelly Baten and Jennifer Valle, secretaries Esly Perret and Brandon Munoz, historians Virmari Garcia, Jessica Trochez, and Gabrielle Lopez, and Sergeant-at-arms Alexis Lazo. “Thank you to all the Class of ’14 Interact members for all their dedication and spirit and a special thanks to all the officers. You’ll all be missed,” added Mr. Perez. (By Lisette Falco)

Media Center Media specialist Mr. Angel Hernandez reports, “The school’s media center has recently earned a grant, worth $5000, from the Laura Bush Foundation. We were 1 of 3 schools in the district who applied in this nationwide contest. With this money, I will be able to buy even more books to update the library’s collection.” (By Brandon Acebo)

4 News The Miami High Times June 2014 91st Year, No.5

By Bryant Alonzo

Hamon, Yo, Yo-yo, Yo Soy Ham, Yohamster, Señor Yo, are some of the many names students give Dr. Yoham. Early Life Born on Father’s Day, June 19, 1966, Dr. Gary Yoham was raised in Coral Gables. He came from a Lebanese/German family; his mother was born in Lebanon, and his father is from Indiana. He comes from a big family, six brothers and sisters, four aunts and uncles on his mom’s side, and nine aunts and uncles on his dad’s side. He has been teaching at Miami High for 18 years now. MHS is the only school he has ever taught at, and he has no plans on leaving. He teaches AP Bio and chemistry honors/regular. Traveling ‘Ham Back in the days, Dr. Yoham used to travel often to Europe and South America because he used to be a travel operator until 1995. Then he began teaching at Miami High. He enjoys teaching here and in 2010, Dr. Yoham won Teach of the Year for 2009-2010. He was also nominated to be Science Teacher

Yoham The Brohamof the Year from Future Educators of America. Dr. Yoham originally planned on being a doctor instead of being a teacher. “I realized I didn’t like blood. So I figured it wouldn’t work out for me,” he said. He wished it would’ve worked out for him, but he’s fine with being a teacher. “I think life leads you to where you’re supposed to go. So I believe I was meant to be a teacher,” he said. Even though he isn’t a medical doctor, he still went through a lot to get a doctorate degree. “I’ve studied mostly biology, then chemistry, physics, calculus, and statistics to

be a doctor,” he said. His Scholastic Journey He earned himself an AA in Psychology at Miami Dade College, a B.S. in Biology and M.S. in Science Education at FIU, and a Doctorate at NOVA in Educational Leadership. Dr. Yoham believes that studying and understanding science help him see things in a different way. “It allows me to make all sorts of

connections in my life, since science is everywhere. Everything you do is science-oriented,” he said. Club Advisor Broham Being the advisor for two school clubs---MECA (Middle Eastern Culture Awareness) and SHS (Science Honors Society)---isn’t easy “MECA is supposed to educate/inform students about Middle Eastern culture,” he said. SHS is a club for students who are interested in science or want to pursue a career in science. “We do services at science conferences, perform experiments that aren’t done during class time, discuss scientific discoveries, have meetings, and go to science museums,” he said. He has been advisor for SHS for approximately 8 years and advisor for MECA for about 6 years. He says the hardest part about leading a club is to get new students to join. Nonetheless, he still enjoys being advisor. Director Yoham’s Personal Life Dr. Yoham’s job isn’t limited to Miami High. Outside of school, he’s part of two educational organizations. He is Executive Director of DCSTA (Dade County Science Teacher Association) and Area 11 Director for FAST (Florida Association of Science Teachers). Dr. Yoham lives in Coral Gables with his two sweet dogs: Turbo and

Nitro, who is diabetic. Whenever he has free time away from teaching, he likes to travel. One of his goals is to travel to Hong Kong and visit his brother who lives there.

Dr. Yoham, Science GuyY F T M F Y L N Z N FG T G S O Z E H R E LQ Q I H N G C Y Y C GP B A C O H O B R U TO M I R I O Q R T R PW R T O M R A E S M RS I T J L C T P I J ON M Z I E O D C M Q TG O O M N S G C E U OL T T A W W E Y H L NE A I S C I E N C E E

Can you find these words related to Dr. Yoham?

ATOM BIOLOGY CHEMISTRYELECTRICITY MECA NITRO

NITROGEN PROTON SCIENCETURBO YOHAM

Principal Miami High principal Mr. Valdes reminds seniors to review their credits and transcripts in order to be prepared for their post-secondary education. He also hopes that the seniors had a memorable year and that they make sure to come back and visit. (By Ingrid Sanchez)

Assistant Principal Mr. Zabala Assistant principal Mr. Zabala reports that he is now the seniors’ best friend because of all the “no credits” teachers are giving them. He said, “Reminder for next year’s seniors, juniors, sophomores, and freshmen to excuse your absence so you don’t have to become my best friend. Also please continue picking up after yourself at lunch. Respect the landscaping, trees, and flowers at MHS which are for everybody’s enjoyment. Students vandalizing any of the greenery will face consequences. Safe crocking saves lives.” (By Denise Espinoza)

A.P. Dr. Prakash Assistant principal Dr. Prakash reports that seniors need to make sure that they have everything cleared in order to graduate on June 3rd. Seniors must turn in their community hours, complete their credits, and pass the FCAT. She also reports that on June 3rd, 4th, and 5th, dismissal is at 11:50 a.m. (by Cesar Albino)

Farewell Betas Beta President Allisson Fino reports that the club just had their last social on May 17th; it was a movie night at Beta VP Matthew Suero’s house, where they watched Ride Along and We’re the Millers. “Our next big thing is the Beta Banquet, on May 30th at the Marriot Hotel,” she said. “This banquet will basically be celebrated with our seniors before they graduate. The seniors will receive their sashes, they will say their farewells, we’ll give out awards and dance the night away with all of our fellow Betas.” Allisson encourages all Beta members to attend; the fee for members is $35, and if you want to bring another person who does not belong to the club, the fee is $40. (By Jasmin Ortega)

CAP Counselor Mr. Bain According to CAP Counselor Mr. Bain, many seniors still need to complete their FAFSA applications. FAFSA is federal money available to pay for college, which does not have to be paid back. It is given on a yearly basis, and students qualify by providing their parents’ income tax return information. “Why would you throw away $5,730 in free money for college? Students who go to college earn an average of $800,000 more over a lifetime than those who do not study after high school,” said Mr. Bain. (By Loany Martinez)

Class of 14’ Advisor, Ms. RiveroClass of ‘14 Advisor Ms. Rivero announces: “Seniors if you haven’t paid for cap and gown, they are now $40 to $45. Remember, graduation is around the corner---June 3rd at University of Miami, from 2 PM to 4 PM. I’m wishing all my seniors plenty of success.” (By Kimberly Downs)

Honoria Honoria Club advisor Mr. Chaine wants to wish all his seniors the best as they graduate this year and thank President Sofia Lopez and member Marlin Acosta for their dedication to the club. He said, “I am going to miss you. Thank you for being Honoria Born!!”(By Kimberly Downs)

5000 Role Models 5000 Role Models advisor Mr. Brborich reports, “This year’s club got way smaller compared to past years. There are only 20 active members who participate and have given excellent behavior. They’ve changed and no longer have a bad rep. I’ve seen them become men and think like men. They’re the best kids I’ve had yet, and I’m proud to be their sponsor. I don’t care what anybody says about them because I know these kids like if they were my younger brothers, and I know they’re awesome. Shout out to alumnus Celso Cruz, who has given back to the club, and President Rey Torres, for being an excellent leader of this club.” (By Kimberly Downs)

Dr. Yoham with his electrostatic

5News The Miami High Times June 2014 91st Year, No.5

By Karla Escobar

You see people walking around everywhere on their phones, texting, talking, or tweeting everything that comes to their minds Tweeting is what you do on Twitter. According to the website socialmediatoday.com, “Twitter is a social network and real-time communication service launched in 2006 and used by millions of people and organizations to quickly share and discover information.” Many people use Twitter all the time. Even students at our school can’t seem to get enough of it. Freshman Julianna Friese mentioned, “I use Twitter every day because it’s

addicting and I like seeing what my friends are up to.” Sophomore Steve Gutierrez, who uses Twitter every day, said, “I just tweet about anything that comes to my mind because that’s what everyone else does.” “I first started using Twitter last year, and at first I hated it,” said Sophomore Luis Hernandez, “but now it’s much more entertaining and I use it way more than a normal person should!” The real question is, “What’s so good about Twitter?” Sophomore Hidrys Morales said, “Twitter is good because you get to Interact with people, and your tweets kinda show how you feel, and how you really are

in person. The only bad thing about it is how people are sneak dissing.” This is when people usually say stuff about you but don’t say it to your face. Jalinne Rubio, sophomore, said, “I like how you get to interact with so many people and you can even make friends through it. Also, I like how you can tweet pointless things and no one really judges you for what you say.” Sophomore Shaina Requena said, “Any time I feel angry or even happy, I like expressing myself. Most of the time, other people feel the same, so they’ll retweet or favorite whatever I said.” Some students have temptations

The Addiction To Tweeting

By Franissa Areas

What does growing up mean to you? Getting more responsibilities? Becoming more mature? Getting a job? To many students at the High, growing up means being able to fend for themselves and buy their own things. For this reason, many students have taken part-time jobs while also being in school. Senior Christian Morel, who works at Office Depot, says, “I got a job to make my own money and not have to depend on someone else when I want something.” He adds, “Whenever, I wanted something it was always a struggle, so I became financially independent.” On the other hand, Juliette Acevedo, who works at a private tax agency, says, “I have a job to support myself and save up money for the car I want, which is a Jeep. To get it has really motivated me to work harder.” For others having a job is a necessity. Senior Natasha Gutierrez, who works to help her mom pay the bills, says, “Paying a part of the rent is the only way I can go out.” Not only can having a job get you money, but it can pave the way to your future. Gricenia Vasquez says, “Working at a preschool is very important to me because I want to be a preschool teacher. Not only do I have a job, but it’s helping me gain experience in the field I want to work in.” Although having a job can be good to get money and experience, sometimes it can be overwhelming and get in the way of more important things like school and your personal life. Senior Edith Davila, who works for Haagen-Dazs at International Mall, says, “I barely have time do homework anymore and my grades have kind of slipped, not to mention I don’t have time to hang out with my friends because I’m tired.” Christian Morel says, “Sometimes my job can get in the way. If I want to go out to the mall or something, I have to make sure I don’t work, which most of the time I do.” Senior Jason Gonzalez, who works as a translator, says, “I have time to do some homework, but not a lot. My

time is very limited, and I barely even have time to spend with my family anymore.” Senior Ilda Cabrera says, “I had to quit working at KFC because I had to attend night school to get a credit I was missing for graduation.” Senior Reny Cedeňo, who works at Old Navy, says, “I always have to be calling in to see if I work that day or not because my managers are always changing my schedule without letting me know, so if I go at a time I’m not supposed to, they get mad.”

There are a few who don’t feel this way. Gricenia Vasquez says, “ I have time to do homework, because I have the weekends off, and I get off early in the afternoon since I have OJT and go to work from 1 P.M. – 6 P.M. Indeed, many students with jobs are also part of the OJT Program, which stands for On the Job Training. Mr. Perez, one of the teachers in the OJT Program, states, “There are about 160 students in the OJT Program and most of them are employed, except for the few who are in transition of

True Life: I got a Job

to use Twitter when they’re in school. Sophomore Dianelys Requena said, “I get tempted only when I’m really bored and have nothing to do in class.” Sophomore Anais Roque mentioned, “I do get temptations because if I used Twitter in the morning, I’m going to keep getting notifications and I’ll want to keep using it.” Other students don’t get as distracted. Senior Adrian Perez said, “In class it’s just something that I look at for a minute or two, so it doesn’t really distract me. When I’m doing homework, I balance doing work and being on Twitter when I get tired of writing, so it’s distracting sometimes, but not in a bad way.”

employment.” Students in the OJT Program have the right to leave school earlier than other students due to their job schedules. Mr. Perez explains that students leave depending on the program they are in. “Students in CDE (Career Diversified Education) may leave after 1st block at 8:50, but mainly after 2nd block at 10:35 a.m. Other students in DCT (Diversified Career Technology) leave after 3rd block and, depending on the lunch time they are assigned to, at 12:10 or 12:45.

Mr. Perez says that teaching an OJT class is not much different from teaching a regular class. “Teaching is teaching,” he said. “The only difference is the amount of paperwork and documentation we need to prepare for program audit purposes.” Besides getting on the job training, according to Mr. Perez, OJT students learn how to use Photoshop, Resume Development, Business Writing, Interviewing Skills, Tax Preparation, Business Concepts, and Business Networking.

Need a Job? The Home Depot: Part-time Cashiers

#6856 – Coconut Grove2999 SW 32ND AveMiami, FL 33133

The Fresh Market: Part-time Cashiers

2640 S Bayshore Dr, Miami, FL 33133

La-Z-Boy Furniture: Part Time Sales Associate

9271 W Flagler StreetMiami, FL 33135

Michaels Arts & Crafts: Part-time Cashier

8287 W Flagler StMiami, FL 33144

Home Goods: Sales/Merchandise Associate

3401-118 N. Miami Ave.The Shoppes of MidtownMiami, FL 33127

Source: http://www.snagajob.com/job-search/w-miami,+fl/q-part+time (May 19, 2014)

Source: http://trueprice.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/Jobs-newspaper.jpg

6 Features The Miami High Times june 2014 91st Year, No.5

By Yoridia Lanuza

An amazing mother, beautiful wife, and an assistant principal. She is in charge of the 11th grade class, construction, and so much more. Ms. Meiklejohn can do it all.

Before MHS Before coming into Sting Town, Ms. Meiklejohn was working as an AP at Homestead Senior from 2004-2006. At the time, Homestead Senior was a ZONE school, and former Miami High principal Dr. Tosado was Associate Superintendent of Zone schools. When requested to go back to Miami High as principal and he was looking to hire an assistant principal, he offered the position to Ms. Meiklejohn. “I left Homestead because I was driving 100 miles a day from Pembroke Pines to Homestead, and I had a young daughter. I just really needed to be closer to home,” she said.

A s s i s t a n t Principal Ms. Me ik le john , who has been an AP for 10 years, said, “When I first arrived in 2006, the construct ion project was in the final phase of development. Dr. Tosado put me in charge, and I had to attend all of the planning and development meetings. I got to see the plans. I worked with District p e r s o n n e l , a r c h i t e c t s , and capital construct ion to make

n e c e s s a r y c h a n g e s , additions, and

adjustments to the design. I have been overseeing the construction project for the entire 8 years that I have been at Miami High. It is so nice to finally see it completed and so beautiful.” Besides construction, Ms. Meiklejohn is in charge of the 11th grade class, the math department the cafeteria, new teachers, the SPED program, the PTSA, payroll, internal funds, and ConnectED. Handling all of these duties is not easy. “It’s very demanding. There are a lot of responsibilities and little details that I to take care of,” she said. “There are many times when it is very stressful, but always very rewarding.” Her first job in the school system was as a social studies teacher at Miami Carol City Senior from 1999-2004. She taught World History, Psychology, Sociology, AP Art History, and AP European History. Before joining the school system, she worked as a medical

secretary and office manager for seven years.Family Family means so much to Ms. Meikljohn. “My family is the most important thing in the world to me. There is nothing I would not for them. We are always together,” she said. “We like to be outdoors, go out on the boat, fish, relax down in the Keys’ or just watch movies. There is nothing more relaxing than being with the people you love doing absolutely nothing.” Ms.

Meiklejohn’s birth family includes sister Cristina Gonzlaez-Mendez (43), brother Pedro Gonzalez (51), mother Marisol Gonzalez, and father Maximiliano Gonzalez, who passed away when she was 15 years old. Her new family with Todd includes their children: her daughter Victoria Mendez, 11 years old (Ada Merrit K-8); Halley Meiklejohn, 15 (MAST); Sydney Meiklejohn; 17 (Coral Reef), and Perry Meiklejohn, 22 (Graduated from Westminister Christian).

Personal History Ms. Meiklejohn tied the knot with Todd Meiklejohn on April 13th, 2013. “We actually worked together for 3 or 4 months before he transferred to another school. He proposed the day after Thanksgiving 2012, and it took 5 months to plan the wedding. It was beach-themed at Key Biscayne Beach Club, with 100 guests. Our honeymoon was a cruise to Aruba, Grand Turk, Curacao, and Dominican Republic,” she said. They recently celebrated their one year anniversary. Madeline Meiklejohn attended Flamingo Elementary (1981-1988), Henry H. Filer Middle School (1998-1991), Hialeah High (1991-1994), Miami Dade College (1994-1996: Associate in Arts) and Florida Atlantic University (1996-1998: Bachelors in History’ minor in Education). Ms. Meiklejohn’s favorite colors are purple and blue. She is a chicken wings aficionado. Her favorite athlete is LeBron James’ and she loves the Miami Dolphins,

“even though they lose,” she said.

MHS Even though she didn’t graduate from Miami High, she will always bleed blue and gold. “I truly love working at Miami High,” she said. “The best thing is that I get to work with the most fabulous individuals. I have never worked with so many people who go above and beyond to help the students. And the best part of the new MHS is that it looks the way it deserves to look, beautiful and full of history,” she said.

“My family is the most impor-tant thing in the world to me,”

she said Ms. Meiklejohn, pictured here with daughter

Victoria.Ms.Meiklejohn and her husband Todd Meiklejohn at their wedding

It’s Meiklejohn NOT Mendez

“And the best part of the new MHS is that it looks the way it deserves to look, beautiful and full of history,” she said,”

Meiklejohn Trivia

1. What is Ms. Meiklejohn’s daugh-ter’s name?a) DaisyB) VictoriaC) Madeline

2. Choose one of her responsibili-ties. a) PTSAb) BETAc) AP Exams

3. When did she get married?a) April 13th, 2013b)September 6th, 2011c) August 31st, 2011

SCSI teacher SCSI teacher Mr. Malcom Nicolas reports: “Students need to start taking their academics seriously and not wait on the counselors, administrators, or teachers to tell them how important it is. I also think students should have more parental guidance as far as academics, attendance, and credit history. Students, don’t wait until the last day of school to make up what you need to graduate.” (By Carla Valdes)

Anime Nation

Club sponsor Mr. Angel Hernandez reports that on Friday May 30, Anime Nation will host Stingcon from 2:30 PM to 6:00 PM. This convention will feature a cosplay, (costume contest), an anime panel, a drawing panel, selling of mangas, (Japanese graphic novels), and even Japanese foods and drinks. All students are welcomed. (By Brandon Acebo)

7 opinion The Miami High Times june 2014 91st Year, No.5

By Merny Garcia

It’s the first day of school, and we walk the halls as freshmen. We experience new things, gain and lose friends, and find out who we really are. We walk in with one mind set, but throughout the years, our goals change. Once we graduate, we walk back out with another type of mentality.

As an 8th grader, just the thought of high school had me nervous. When the day came, walking into South Miami High School was one of the most terrifying things for me. I walked in thinking that it was going to be difficult, that I would drown myself with homework and not have enough time for me.

In spite of my fears, I was determined to give my all and be a top student. Unfortunately, my freshman and sophomore years were a complete disaster. I left my school work for other things. I didn’t put school first.

I thought at the time that being “cool” meant to act up in class and be the class clown and reward myself with CSI. Thankfully, during those years, I also joined the soccer team at South Miami, and it helped me pull my grades up. Soccer gave me the discipline and showed me the importance of valuing things in life. Unfortunately, by the end of my sophomore year I, along with a supposed friend, had been involved in 3 fights because I had problems with most of the girls in school. I decided to transfer to Miami High because I needed a new and fresh start. Miami High gave me the opportunity to pick myself up from ground zero and work my way up to being a good student. The way the counselors and teachers here are on top of you making sure you’re getting things ready for the day you graduate helped me keep my grades up. The attention that I was given by each of my teachers inspired me to keep my GPA high. My soccer coach here at Miami

High, Mr. Fertil, showed me that if my mind decided to give up on me, then that shouldn’t stop my heart from getting to where it wants to be. Starting my junior year I didn’t expect it to be full of obstacles. In the month of December, my mom was diagnosed with neurocysticercosis, which is a cyst in the middle of her brain, parasites on her spine, and liquid clogging in the brain. My mom had to undergo 2 surgeries, which meant I had to take some days off of school. I had to miss school days in order to take care of my mom while my dad was working. By the month of February my mom was back home, and she still needed to be taken care of. Apart from missing school because of my mom’s situation, I missed most of my last periods because of my soccer games. I tried getting myself back on track and getting on top of my teachers for extra credit work in order to pull up my grades. I thankfully passed my junior classes with a C average. As a senior, I had set my mind on dedicating my time to my school work and giving it my all. I came in with a mindset that nothing will get in my way to keep my grades and attitude up, even if it meant losing friends. Senior year went by fast but was fun. I attended all senior activities such as senior movie night, senior breakfast, senior field trip and Grad Bash. I’m also attending prom and graduation. Besides senior activities, I’ve managed to keep a B average throughout the year. Being a senior has both a bitter and sweet feeling. It’s great to know that I’ve accomplished one chapter in my life and I’m about to open up a new one. However, leaving behind the high school experience is sad. I’m going to miss my friends and most of my teachers and, of course, my soccer team. One piece of advice I give to those

currently in high school or just starting as freshmen is to join any clubs or a sports. During my junior year when I transferred to Miami High, as the new kid in school, I was motivated to join a sport in order to meet new people and familiarize myself with the school. I decided to join the girls’ soccer team. Being the new player on the team did pressure me into showing the girls and the coach what I was capable of. Once I was officially on the team, the relationship I had with the girls was like no other. We were more than friends; we were family. They helped me get around school and helped me enjoy every loss and every win. Every bus ride was full of laughter and smiles no matter if we won or lost. We ate lunch together and spent school hours together. The times we could be together out of school, we could usually go play soccer or go out and eat. I probably didn’t make a long lasting friendship with them, but during the season, they made my time memorable. If time travel was an option, I would go back and change quite a few details. Starting off with my freshman

From Cobra to Sting#SpecialShoutoutI would like to give a special thanks to both of my soccer coaches Mr. Fertil and Ms. Rivero for making my soccer season memorable. I also want to thank my teachers for giving me that extra push I needed. It’s been the best high school experience, and I will always look back and

smile.

“I decided to join the girls’ soccer team. Once I was officially on the team, the relationship I

had with the girls was like no other.”

and junior years, I would definitely have taken my core classes more seriously because my GPA would now be higher. Apart from school work, I would’ve joined a club to create more memories with different kinds of people and to earn more community service hours which would look good on my college applications.

High school is a four year training getting us ready for college, but that won’t stop it from including drama, fake friends, and good memories. I’ve had countless experiences throughout the years, but the one that stands out the most happened this year when I noticed how the amount of friends I have, compared to my freshman year, is less. As the years have gone by, my clique got smaller and smaller. That’s because

either some of them changed towards me, we have lost communication, or I started noticing that the people I was hanging out with aren’t as suitable for me.

CoNgratulatioNs to the boys baseball team oN their out-staNdiNg seasoN aNd viCtory

iN the distriCt FiNals!

8 Opinion The Miami High Times June 2014 91st Year, No.5

By Elma Amaya Editor-in-Chief

Regardless of our circumstances, it is something we all have to go through. Growing up, we’ve had to face the path that felt like it determined who we’d be for the rest of our lives. Not only did we feel like we were being judged by who we sat with during lunch or what club we joined, but we felt as though the decisions we made in the next four years would determine where our lives would be headed afterwards. It’s the path that tested our friendships, questioned our priorities, and molded us into the adults that will take on the world---the path of high school. New City, New Sting Throughout my first two years of high school, I didn’t make a big deal of school or anything related to being very social or trying to put myself out there. Having just moved from New Orleans, I wished to just fly through school and stay with a small group of friends and graduate as fast as I

could. I joined a church group and became extremely involved with the activities and programs they had to offer. During those two years, I shied away and feared from speaking and standing up for myself. I expected to remain to myself and hoped to remain in church. As I got older, I began to question what I really wanted out of life. I wanted to impact others and help in any way possible. Ironically enough, I felt like my church limited me from that. I took my first brave step and spoke to my church leaders and informed them that I no longer wished to be a part of their group. When I left, I felt as though a weight had been lifted off my shoulders, and I had more time and chances to make high school count.A Second Chance I took every chance possible to make my last two years in high school memorable. I chased so many opportunities that my school offered. I joined the volleyball team and became the J.V. captain, ran

Averting an Anticipated Farewell

It’s great to have someone like [Mr. E. Perez] who relates to high school students and someone who’s willing to give up so much time and patience to guide students to the right choices.

These past three years in journalism have given me so much more than awards

It is because of my MHS family that I’ve grown up to be who I am today, a leader. I only wish to graduate by giving thanks to those who helped me throughout

my journey.

for a Student Government position, became the Interact vice president, and editor-in-chief of the school newspaper. Honestly, I regret nothing. It is because of my MHS family that I’ve grown up to be who I am today, a leader. I only wish to graduate by giving thanks to those who helped me throughout m y journey.

Time for Goodbye My journey honestly began when I joined the Miami High Times. If it wasn’t for journalism teacher Dr.

Interactive Farewell Equally important, working with Interact this past year has made my senior year all worth it. It is because of them that Miami High has become my second home. Being the service coordinator for them has

brought me so close to almost all the

members. I’m so blessed to have worked for them. A l t h o u g h they drive me crazy m o r e than half the time, they’re my family, and I would do a n y t h i n g

for them. Thankfully, teachers like biology teacher and club sponsor Mr. Emerson Perez

make Interact

DeNight, I wouldn’t have known of the potential I had as a writer and leader because I knew he always believed in me, and I found a purpose in myself. He pushed me to speak to others, write about my interests, and chase my dreams. He resembles a father figure in my life, and I’m so grateful to have someone like him guide me throughout high school. I give so much thanks to the staff writers I’ve met this year. They’re all so different, and I’m so proud to say that they’re my team. I don’t know how I would’ve gotten through this year without Walter driving me crazy, Vanessa always trying to find an excuse to lick me, Fabuola constantly aggravating me, and Steven always finding a reason to flirt with me. They’re all the best group of people I’ve worked with, and I’ll miss them all so much.

worth joining. Sure, when you meet him, he just seems like a mean, monotone, science teacher, but when I really got to know him, he became a mean, monotone, older brother. It’s great to have someone like him who relates to high school students and someone who’s willing to give up so much time and patience to guide students to the right choices. Baby Stings To any freshman or lower classman who stresses a title or feels pressured to fit in, don’t. High school might feel like a big thing now, but that’s only because you have nothing else to focus on. Don’t feel like you have to fit in or hurt others to attain things. Work hard and help others. You may not change the world, but the decisions you make will affect people even when you don’t notice it.

9Opinion The Miami High Times June 2014 91st Year, No.5

By Walter Munoz

A 4 year journey comes to an end, but before I receive that diploma which I’ve worked so much for, it’s time for me to look back, at least one more time, at what I’ve been through, look back at the path where I shed so many drops of sweat and tears and where I learned that even life can turn itself upside down and sometimes go your way. The Start of a Journey. During my high school journey, I learned that everything isn’t always what it seems to be. I always looked at Miami High to be a different school, but inside the historical halls lies the “real” Miami High. I was told the school was full of spirit, but as each year passes, the spirit starts to die and the love for Miami High diminishes. In my 10th grade year, I felt like I wanted to leave. I didn’t want to be a part of this spiritless school. I felt ashamed to call it my home. As the spirit died and the morale of the school went down, so did I, and there was nothing I could do about it, and that’s when my life took a big turn for the better, and I’ll never forget that. First of all, I finally felt like I had a friend. More like a brother, Jose Paz-Lemus is someone who understood me and always had my back when trouble came. I found it easier to go through a difficult situation with someone having my back instead of going through it on my own.

A Dark History Returns Junior year changed my whole perspective of my time in Miami High, and that is when I joined Interact and the Miami High TIMES. That’s when I changed completely because I felt like I truly had a family. I learned that no matter what, there will always be someone who will understand you and will be there for you. For example, former Interact President Michelle Cubillo was like that crazy cat lady you know and love, and the closer I got to her, the more I felt like she was my “Momma cat”. Like every family, we had our ups and downs, but because of my

fellow Interact members, I became more involved and especially with the seniors that were also involved. Aside from the all the positive events with meeting new people, getting involved in activities, and just having fun, 11th grade was also the darkest year in my 4-year journey when I heard my father say these words to me as we left the courthouse in downtown Miami: “You don’t deserve to live a normal life. You may be my flesh and blood and have my name, but you will never be like me. You will always be nothing but a waste of space and a failure to your own family.” To understand this, you must know that I was born in England, where my father has citizenship. In 2001, our family was sent away from E n g l a n d , and when we came to the United S t a t e s , my father didn’t want a n y t h i n g to do with me or our family and

disappeared for 12 years. In 2011, he returned to finally cut all loose ends with me, which led to our meeting in court during my junior year. As junior year continued, so did the court fights, and I fought long and hard until I had to give up at one point. My father won, which meant that I lost my U.S passport and citizenship and he no longer had to pay child support. After that I realized that life will beat you to your knees and keep you there permanently if you let it, but you have to keep fighting, and that’s what I did. We went back to court, and I turned the tables on my father and won back my rights to U.S. citizenship. It was a good thing he wore sunglasses that day because he could never bear to look me in the eye again. He died soon after this. After the fights and the passing of my father, I was given a second chance to do right from a past wrong.

When my father went missing 12 years ago, he took my baby sister with him. When I won my final battle in court against my dad, I got back my sister. I sent her back to her old school and she felt i n sp i red b y what I d i d . N o w

in high s c h o o l , she joined the Miami S p r i n g s I n t e r a c t

club and she made me promise to

a l w a y s p u t

service above self and to win an officer position to prove myself. And that’s exactly what I did, but to no avail. Back at Miami High at the end of my junior year, I lost the Interact vice-president elections to a hardworking student, Elma Amaya, and when I lost, I felt horrible, not because of the defeat, but because I knew I couldn’t keep the promise I made to my sister. After what my father said to me and the loss of the election, I never let someone stick a finger in my face and tell me I’m no good. I learned to never give up and just keep going until I get to my goal.

A Rivalry Ends Once senior year started, no matter how many times I was brought down, I always managed to stand back up. Despite the bruises and scars, I continued down the path towards my

goal. In my final year here, I applied for the sole position of editor-in-chief of the Miami High TIMES. I wanted something to call my own and lead towards a bright future. I’ll never forget the words that TIMES advisor Dr. DeNight told me that inspired me to go for it: “I want you to prove yourself worthy of the job, not the title, but the job. Prove to me you can take a beating and stand back up to continue what you committed to.” And I did, but I wasn’t alone. For the first time since he has led TIMES, Dr.DeNight decided to choose two hard working students to be editor-in-chief, and that second person was Elma, my rival for the Interact vice presidency.

I’ll never forget it. I always thought because we shared the position and our bad history was still there that

one of us wouldn’t make it. But I was wrong. I’ll never forget the lesson I learned that year: even

your greatest adversary can become a respected and dear friend. We were magnificent together; we put our differences aside and worked together. I will always remember what an extraordinary person Elma is. As my time comes to an end, I look back at what I’ve been through and what I’ve learned. I know to this day that I don’t regret anything that has happened to me. I made sacrifices to reach where I am now, but I didn’t go through it by myself. I had my friend and brother with me, Interact stood by me in my time of need, and now I can celebrate by looking around at the group of students who achieved their goals along with me as I hold my hand out to receive my well-earned diploma.

If anyone has the same problems or worse, know that I made it, and if I made it, you can to, but you can’t point your fingers at him or her or them for the reason why you’re not there yet. That’s what quitters do and I wasn’t one of them, and you shouldn’t be either.

An Exile’s Redemption

To Elma Amaya I enjoyed working withyou this year, I know we

had a little bad history witheach other, but I’m glad we

were able to work it out.I’ll miss you.

To Lisette Falco We’ve known each other

for so long. I’m glad you stood around in my high-school journey, and I hope you stay for the future. <3

To Jose Paz-LemusWe’ve had a pretty weird and long 4 years together but meeting you is like meeting my long lost brother. I hope you and I stay as the dynamic duo in

the future.

To Estrella Quiroz I know we bicker a lot, and we get on each other‘s nerves, but you’re someone who you can’t stay mad at for too long. You’re just one of my dearest friends and

maybe even closerGood Luck In The Future.

I’ll always remember Miami High as if it was my home, where I grew up and started my life.

To Mr. Emerson PerezThank you for everything, without your support I don’t know what I would have done when I was struggling, you were like a true father to me and I’ll

never forget it.

Farewell to thosewho made an

Impact on me

The Miami high times June 2014 91st year no.5Features10By Jose Hernandez

Now he’s a student, next he’s a soldier. He is junior Daniel Seco, who is currently enrolled in JROTC, and will ship out on June 16th to BCT (Basic Combat Training) at Fort Jackson, South Carolina. His Plans for the Summer Going to BCT is part of his career plan. “My goal in the Army is to enlist. After BCT, I have to finish my senior year at Miami High and then move on to Advance Individual Training (AIT) in Virginia. After I finish my AIT, I will attend either Miami Dade College or FIU and apply for the SMP (Simultaneous Membership Program) scholarship which will get me into a college ROTC program (Reserve Officer Training Corps) and commission me as an officer in the Army,” he said.Why he’s joining the Army Daniel decided to join the Army because of its many opportunities such college ROTC, Airborne and Air Assault school courses, Special Forces, Green Berets, Delta force, Ranger school, the Honor Guard, and Officer Candidate School (OCS). The Army also offers vocational training in over 100 MOS (Military Occupational Specialties) that can provide experience for the civilian work force.How is he preparing himself? Before he ships to BCT, he is currently running a mile almost every day, and constantly pushing himself until fatigued in order to prepare for the PT (Physical Training) he will endure at BCT.Career Plan

Daniel has been in the Junior ROTC program at Miami High for 3 consecutive years, and will continue to his fourth during his senior year. “I joined JROTC because I made a commitment in the eighth grade that I was going to plan out my life in a manner that fits with my career, and the only careers that fit my personality are in the military or historian,” he saidWhat is difficult about JROTC? Daniel says that the hardest part of JROTC is the leadership role. “Being in a leadership role obligates me to set an example at all times in and out of school,” he said. “Contrary to popular belief, a leader is not just a ‘boss’ that tells other people what to do. Leadership is setting an example and

not telling people what to do from the back, but to struggle with them from the

front. To have actual leadership skills is the hardest attribute any individual can possess.” How he views JROTC He has a unique view on JROTC which many cadets do not share. “JROTC not only develops a person’s leadership skills and character, but it lets them

discover who they are as a person and what their purpose in life is,” he said. “It also establishes a sense of responsibility. It turns you into a more dignified individual with professionalism which

you can continue to utilize after graduating from high school.”His awards He has won numerous awards from JROTC, including the Superior Cadet award, which is the second highest award a cadet could earn, the highest being the Medal of Heroism which is earned by going above and beyond the call of duty as a cadet (such as performing l i f e - s a v i n g techniques on an unconscious victim after a car accident). He has also won the NCOs (Non-Commiss ioned

Officers) Association Award chartered by Congress; the Scabbard and Blade Distinguished Medal, and the Highest Marksmanship Badge in the JROTC program.Academics He is an outstanding example of a citizen with goals and a bright future. “As a student I feel

like a classroom leader and a motivator as well as that guy people can trust with their problems. I enjoy the high end level of education that most of my AP and Duel Enrollment classes provide,” he said. As noted at the community awards ceremony held in late April, he is a motivated and outstanding student. “My academics this year were above average---not as exceptional as I wanted due to personal issues at home---but still good,” he said. “I wouldn’t consider my classes hard, but rather challenging like AP English, Dual Enrollment U.S. History, and

Junior ROTC.”Love for MHS Daniel is proud to be a student at MHS. “What I like about MHS is the appearance of the school, and the incredible teachers we have like English teachers Ms. Cardona and Ms. Ransom, foreign language teachers Mr. Ortiz and Ms. Miranda, and many others. They serve not only as role models, but as great teachers,” he said. What he dislikes about Miami High is how some students are ignorant enough to trash and vandalize their school and disrespect their teachers.The Early Days and Personal Life His family comes from Cuba. He was born February 9th, 1995, here in Miami and attended Shenandoah elementary and middle schools. “I’m an only child and my family is very small,” he said. “In elementary I was the little class ‘nerd’ and I would typically go through verbal abuses as a child growing up because I was very out of shape and short. However, when I hit my growth spurt in middle school, I left all of my ‘friends’ behind and became one of the tallest and most physically active.” Back then, however, he wasn’t a good student. He skipped school a lot, never attended any classes, and hung out with the wrong group of people. However, at the end of his 8th grade year, he made a commitment to himself to improve who he was as a person and to become a man and not a boy. In his free time he studies, does PT, and hangs out with his girlfriend and friends. He has what many people would think as a harsh or challenging lifestyle. He says, “Many people say they would prefer being dead than

to live how I do, but I enjoy my way of life. Yeah, I might live in a very small apartment sharing a room with my parents, and, yeah, I may not have a cellphone, IPOD,

or gaming systems, but I’m more than grateful to be living and able to enjoy the small things in life---things that don’t have a price tag on them.”Fortune Telling He can’t accurately predict the future because, hey, nobody is a fortune teller, but in his case, he will. “I see myself as a captain in the military in about ten years with a strong supportive family with two kids,” he said. “However, the future is uncertain. All I can do is try my best to strive and carry on no matter what life throws at me. “

the leaN GreeN meaN fiGhtiNG machiNe

“A leader is not just a ‘boss’ that tells other people what to do. Leadership is setting an example and not telling people what to do from the back, but to struggle with them from the front. To have actual leadership skills is the hardest attribute any individ-

ual can possess.” ~Daniel Seco

Daniel Seco carries the U.S. flag at the flag detail conducted at the school’s

rededication ceremony

From left to right, Heisy Carballo, Daniel Seco, Evan Burbano, and Mayeling Cruz

practice presenting the colors forSenator Bob Graham’s visit

The Miami high times June 2014 91st year no.5 FEATURES 11

By Maggie Suarez Fourteen could be anything; it could be your age, your favorite number---it could be the chapter in a book you are reading. But when I think of the number fourteen, I think about fourteen long hours I would spend in a soon-to-be-crowded white rental van on my spring break journey to Colonial Virginia. As the sun went down on March 21, and the moon came up from its sleepy slumber, my family and another family were packing our bags, cooler, and two bags of chips. We chose our destination because of its rich history about our country and because we all wanted to get away from Florida. We visited Jamestown, which was America’s first permanent English colony in Virginia in 1607, 13 years before the Pilgrims landed at Plymouth in Massachusetts. For Disney fans, this was where Pocahontas lived. We went to Williamsburg, Virginia, a small city between the York and James Rivers that was founded in 1632 and was designated the capital of the English colony in 1698. If you visited now, you will see people dressed up and living as they did in the colonial times. Our last little history lesson would be in Yorktown, where in 1781 General George Washington, commanding a force of 17,000 French and Continental troops, fought a battle against British General Lord Charles Cornwallis and his contingent of 9,000 British troops. This was the most important battle of the Revolutionary War because it is where the British surrendered and America became an independent nation.

There were ten of us on the trip, six from my family and four from our family’s friends. My father drove from two in the morning until eight o’clock in the morning when he gave the wheel to Luis, our family’s friend. My eyes were getting heavier and heavier, and slumber finally won and took over my body. My eyes would flutter open and notice my surroundings changing from city life to wooden, rural areas. It’s funny when you don’t see a lot of trees in

your life in the big city. Every time I pass a wooden area, in my mind I picture myself in a pioneer wagon entering a new area which I will probably call ‘home’.

Maggie’s grand adventure

In the middle of Florida when we stopped to eat breakfast at Denny’s, I heard my mom Ana talking to her mother Dulce in Spanish saying that this will be Dulce’s first time that she will leave Florida to go to another state. We passed five states: the good old Sunshine State; Georgia, which took us three hours; South Carolina, which family friend Maria calls

“The longest road” because it felt like we were there for forever; North Carolina; and finally Virginia. In South Carolina every mile we saw the same sign over and over again advertising

Yorktown, where the English were defeated in the American Revolution,welcomes us

“South of the Border” on the border between South and North Carolina. After so much anticipation, when we finally passed by the famous “South of the Border”, laughter filled the air because that place was a ghost town, and half of the buildings were destroyed. I am thankful for the memories made on my spring break vacation. The first one was visiting the famous Jamestown, where we walked all of the trails, saw some unmarked graves, went inside an old church, and explored decaying houses that the pilgrims used to own. Archeologists found some interesting artifacts in and out of the fort. Rusty old guns, animal bones, human remains, bows and arrows, and some tools were on display in the museum. Another great memory was visiting Busch Gardens Europe, where we rode almost all the rides, and some we rode twice. We rode the Loch Ness Monster, Verbolten, Apollo’s Chariot, and Europe in the Air. We even did bumper cars like eight times in a row, which was my favorite because of how many times we laughed every time we got hit. We had lunch in ‘The Squire’, which was an English-themed restaurant. Maybe one day, if you’re tired of this state and you want to go to a whole new place, then you should go to Virginia. Every year on April 5th in Jamestown they put on a show of the famous wedding between Pocahontas and English settler Thomas Rolfe. If you love history, you will find it interesting. My spring break vacation was the greatest time of my life. We learned a lot of the rich history about our nation, and we created new memories that I will cherish forever.

Hold on tight, the ride is about to start at Busch Gardens Europe.

Back in time, at colonia Willamsburg meeting with the English settlers

12 Opinion The Miami High Times june 2014 91st Year, No.5

By Vanessa Suarez

Starting high school as a freshman is a frightening thing. Coming brand new from middle school, I soon realized that high school was a complete change. Throughout all of my high school experiences and in the midst of all the hard work, as a senior I can now spread my wings and fly to the real world, but before I leave I must reminisce about the most amazing four years of my life.

Starting out as a Baby Sting High school was always a big deal for me. My mom always had my back since the beginning and was always reminding me about how important high school was going to be and how it mattered to get good grades. As soon as I walked the halls of Miami High, my vision was to get straight A’s in everything possible, so that I could make my mom proud. Transitioning from middle school, some of the classes were hard for me, like Algebra 1, but I’m not the type to give up. I’m persistent. At the end of my freshman year, my vision was the same, to continue getting good

grades. I finished with a 3.5 GPA, but that wasn’t going to stop me from making those two digits grow. I will be honest; Miami High was not the school I wanted to attend originally. The high school I wanted to go to was Miami Springs High because all my friends were over there, and I didn’t want to feel like an outcast since everyone here either went to Citrus Grove Middle or Shenandoah. But, I’m glad I decided to come here because Miami High is where I feel at home. I will say that at first, it was hard for me to become friends with people because I didn’t know anyone, but then it all got easy. For example, by the end of freshman year, I already knew my way around the school and knew my fair share of people. But, the crowd kept on growing as the years progressed.

Bleeding blue and silver During freshman year, I was always told to join a club and the one that stood out was Beta, which I ended up joining, but to be honest, I didn’t fit in. I’m not saying that the club is

bad, but it wasn’t my fit. I went from Beta to Interact my sophomore year, and it was one of the best decisions I made in my whole high school career. Even though Interact hasn’t come out on top in the homecoming parade, the way that they treat new members and how they all stick together are worth more than a title. Interact is where you can be whoever you want and you can call it a “second family.” In Interact I got to make amazing friendships that I will carry with me for the rest of my life.

The year that marked me forever For me, junior year was a breeze. Classes were not so stressful, even though they say it is the most important year. The most significant event that occurred that year was when I met my best friend, Merny Nicole Garcia, and it all started out with a simple “What’s your name?” Our friendship isn’t very normal. For example, we fight over the dumbest things, like someone not saying hi first, and sometimes it feels like two little kids fighting, but we overcome those obstacles. Merny has taught me a lot throughout my last years of high school. She’s taught me how to always look at the bright side of things and to forgive easily, even if the person doesn’t deserve it. Merny and I have a stronger bond because we’re both Christians, and because of that, we never give up on our friendship. As junior year came to an end, I was already thinking about senior year, especially Grad Bash, colleges and graduation. I was told that senior

year was the year I was going to get “senioritis.”

I made it! Senior year is coming to

Started From The Bottom, and Now I’m Graduating

a close, and I can say that I had a blast. I am graduating summa cum laude, which means the top 5% of the graduating class, and my GPA is 5.2. Miami High taught me everything I know now, and I will take it with me to Miami-Dade College. I want to go there because I am not ready to leave Miami yet, and I probably never will. I plan to study forensics to become a crime scene investigator. To all the friends I made and who also made my crowd “bigger,” I just want to say that you guys made my four years at Miami High incredible. As graduation day comes, I get sentimental because now I will have to carry those memories with me.

I won’t be able to walk these halls again as a student, but as an alumna. I don’t see this as a goodbye, but as a new beginning to the real world. The friendships I made will never leave my heart or mind. One thing I will never forget is what former activities

“The friendships I made will never leave my heart or mind.”

“I don’t see this as a goodbye, but as a new beginning to the real world.”

director Ms. Q said at my freshman orientation: When you graduate from Miami High, you are going to cry after all the memories you made here. Out of all the teachers I’ve had these past four years, the one I will miss the most is journalism, English, and reading teacher Dr. DeNight, who has been with me in since freshman year. He’s my favorite teacher because he always makes class interesting. If he could be my college professor for the next four years, I would gladly accept. As for the underclassmen, who think that the next few years will pass slowly, my advice is to enjoy them and make memories so memorable

that they’re worth looking back to because, before you know it, graduation day will soon be here and you will already be searching for a college to attend.

“But, I’m glad I decided to come here because Miami High is where I

feel at home.”

Merny and I have a stronger bond because we’re both Christians, and because of that, we never give up on our friendship.

13Opinion The Miami High Times June 2014 91st Year, No.5

By Ingrid Sanchez

“I started thinking that things would never go right for me and that MHS just wasn’t the school for me, but either way, I was going to be stuck here for four miserable years.” That’s what I thought when I first arrived at Miami High. I was a freshman with no one to call a friend, and I was dreading that high school was going to be an encore performance of middle school. I just wanted time to fly and get from my first day of school to Graduation Day. Back at my old school, Coral Way K-8, we had this event every year called the Magnet Fair where all the high schools from across Dade County sent a representative to tell the students about their school. Miami High was one of several schools that came. My mother and my aunt are MHS graduates of the 1986 and 1995 classes, respectively. My oldest cousin was on the football team here. But I didn’t want to come to Miami High. Most of my friends from Coral Way were going to Coral Gables Sr. High, and I didn’t want to be at school where I didn’t know anybody. Plus, a lot of people kept telling me that Miami High was a bad place, full of bad kids. I’d already been bullied enough at Coral Way, and I didn’t want to relive that horror show in high school, which is supposed to be “the best years of your life.” I feared the worst, and when I first got here, I hated it. But now here I am four years later, and I’ve realized that Miami High isn’t all what people claimed it to be. Aside from the fact that it could use a little more spirit, Miami High is a good institution with an incredible history, and the students are great. I’ve had a pretty good high school experience. It wasn’t all perfect, but for the most part, it was good, and I’ve managed to come out unscathed – which is always a feature I like. I had said before that whatever I wanted to do at Miami High, I was going to make it big. And though I think I fell just a little short of my expectations, I was very involved during my time here. I was a member of Interact, an amazing service

club in which I have participated in numerous service events and even had the pleasure of serving as vice president one year. Through Interact, I’ve also come to know so many great people that I know will continue to have a lasting impact on me. I have enjoyed being a writer for The Miami High Times, which made my love for writing grow, and gave me the chance to showcase it. I was even a part of the Million Dollar Band and choral programs. No wonder I’m so exhausted after four years. There is a quote by comedian Billy Crystal that goes, “I think I’ve far exceeded

“...You Get What You Need...”what I ever thought I

could possibly do….” It reminds of all that I’ve done and just how far I’ve come since

freshman year. Now Gradua t ion Day is r a p i d l y approaching and I find m y s e l f

wishing that I had just a little more time here at Miami High.

Like some, if not all of my fellow

seniors, I’m scared – scared of being alone again and coming to

that finish line and not liking what I see. I’m not particularly happy of where I’m going to college after my time at Miami High comes to an end, and I have trouble accepting the fact that my friends and I are all going our separate ways, and we might not to get to see each other as often. It wasn’t until a good friend told me that although things may not turn out the way you want them to, you should try to make the best out of whatever situation life hands you. Because in the end, you just might end up with what you need. That made me think of my very first day of school all over again, and how even though I didn’t want to be at Miami High, I made the best I could out of my time here. Because in the end, it turned out to be exactly what I needed.

Special thanks to…• Rossly Rocha – From World History

class with Tornillo to marching Million Dollar Band to serving in Interact, we have been through a lot together. Though we’ve only known each other for four years, I feel like we have really grown up together. Rossly, you are incredibly smart, funny and brave, and you are a wonderful friend. You have stuck with me through thick and thin, you helped me become a better person, and you have reminded to see the brighter side of any situation that life throws at me. I love you, and I will miss you.

• Mr. Emerson Perez & Interact – Because I ruined my farewell speech by crying at the meeting, let me say it again: To Interact, I just want to say, “Thank you” from the bottom of my heart for always being there to brighten my day. You guys are the highlight of my high school years – mainly because you are the loudest, craziest, weirdest, and filthy-minded bunch of people I’ve ever met. But you are also the kindest, friendliest and most generous bunch. You will literally accept anybody into this wonderful club and make them feel like they belong. When I first came to Miami High, I never thought that I would be a part of something so huge. You guys are my second family, and I will miss you terribly. And to Mr. Perez, thank you for being my science teacher in 9th grade. If you hadn’t, I probably never would’ve joined Interact. I love you all so much and good luck. Interact over All.

• Joyce Jimenez & Marie Stewart – Well, what can I say except that you two are the weirdest, craziest, and loudest gals I’ve ever met? I have enjoyed hanging out and sharing many laughs with you “floozies” and I thank you for reminding me that while it’s important to be responsible, it’s ok to be a clown and to loosen up and have fun every once in a while. Joyce, I wish you the best of luck at the University of Florida. Marie, looks like it’s just you and me.

TIMES 2450 SW 1ST STREET

Miami, Fl 33135 (305)-649-9800

ext. 2262Fax: (305) 649-9475

Times is the publication of Miami Senior High School. Opinions expressed on the

editorial page do not necessarily reflect the viewpoints of

the school.

Times welcomes readers’ opinions on all topics. All letters must be

signed. The editors and the editorial board reserve the right to reject, edit, or shorten letters.All letters should be turned in to Dr. DeNight in

room 1217.

Miami HighAdvisor

Dr. Shawn DeNight

Brandon AceboRosa AguadoCesar AlbinoBryant AlonzoAnthony AmayaElma Amaya

Franissa AreasEdith BalmacedaKelly Baten

Fernando CabreraHeadly CashKelvin CashEric Cato

Cesar ColladoChelsea Collado

Kevin CruzWilliam CruzNathaly CuevasTierra DavisKimberly Downs

Karla EscobarDenise EspinozaLisette FalcoKatering FloresMerny Garcia

Michael GarshottJuan Gomez

Jose HernandezGracia KabuanseyaYoridia LanuzaJonathan LeonGrace Marro

Grabriela MartinLoany MartinezSteven MedinaYasmin MedinaJasmine Mendoza Sherly MendozaAngela MoralesShaya Moreno

Editors-in-ChiefElma Amaya Walter Munoz

Layout Editors Yoridia LanuzaRoxanna SotoFabuola Pierre

Copy EditorsGrace Marro

Vanessa Suarez

Graphics EditorJose Hernandez

Walter MunozJasmin OrtegaAlexa PanamenoElizabeth PereraFabuola PierreShannon ReyesJerelyn RomeroJazmin Ruiz

Danaize SanchezGabriella SanchezIngrid SanchezMichael SantanaJoshua SierraRoxanna SotoMagaly SuarezVanessa SuarezArianne TerceroKatherine TorresCarla ValdesW

rite

rs

14 Features The Miami High Times JUNE 2014 91st Year, No.5

By Katering Flores What do you do when you want to have a chill weekend at home? Watch movies? Catch up with your favorite shows? Play some video games? That is when you have to ask yourself the question: Netflix or Redbox?

Netflix vs. Redbox Netflix is an online streaming company that provides movies, TV series, and miniseries. To use Netflix, you need a connection to the internet and must be subscribed to receive the service. To subscribe, you need a credit card and must pay $8 per month. For that you get unlimited access to their available content. Netflix has many popular and beloved movies and TV series in their library including Mean Girls, Gladiator, Forrest Gump, “Doctor Who”, “Family Guy”, “The Walking Dead”, and “Pretty Little Liars”. On the other hand, Redbox specializes in the rental of DVDs, Blu-ray, and video games for Xbox 360, WII, and PlayStation 3. You can find Redbox inside or outside different retail stores such as Publix, Winn Dixie, Walgreens, and CVS. To use Redbox there is no need for you to subscribe, but you will need a credit card. It costs $1.20 for a DVD, $1.50 for a Blu-ray, and $2 for video games per day. Currently, movies such as Anchorman 2, 12 Years a Slave, The Book Thief, and American Hustle are available at Redbox.

Netflix On Top of The Game Netflix has many fans at Miami

Clash of Titans

High. Sophomore Raquel Espinoza said, ”I watch Netflix because most of the movies and TV episodes I desire to watch are displayed.” Malena Pendola, a sophomore, likes how Netflix has a variety of movies and shows that she enjoys.

Netflix has advantages that Redbox does not provide. Netflix will help you navigate in their web page by showing the most popular movies or shows. Netflix will help you customize your account with movies and TV shows that you like. Let’s not forget that Netflix provides original series that no one else has such as “House of Cards”. These shows have a huge audience and have become winners of Emmy Awards.

The Favorites Students have their Netflix favorites. “My favorite shows are ‘Supernatural’ and ‘Doctor Who’,” said Malena Pendola. “They’re both suspenseful and different from other shows so they keep my attention.” “My favorite show is ‘American Horror Story’,” said sophomore Galilea Campos. “It’s surprising and

thrilling. You never know what will happen next.”

So Netflix, What’s Up? Netflix has a lot to offer, but there is a tiny little problem. As sophomore Luz Cuero points out, she prefers Redbox because it has new movies and she doesn’t have to wait long to get them. Daniella Lopez, a junior, said “I like Redbox because it gives me access not only to movies but also to video games.”

Parents and Netflix Parents can monitor what you watch on Netflix by showing what the last things you watched in it were. Yoana Ferreira said that her parents don’t monitor what she watches because they trust her. Probably one of parents’ greatest fears is that kids get so lost with Netflix and they forget that they have other responsibilities like helping around in the house and doing homework. Sophomore Galilea Campos said, ”I think that Netflix may interfere with school because you can get so caught up in what are you watching that you forget about your school responsibilities.” “Netflix does interfere with school because you are trying to focus on your homework, but a demon in your mind tells you to keep watching,” said sophomore Anne Suchite. Not all students get “caught up” with Netflix. Yoana Ferreira said that Netflix doesn’t interfere at all with school. “It is all about keeping your priorities in check,” she said.

Netflix Original Series • “House of Cards” • “Orange Is The New Black” • “Hemlock Grove” • “Turbo: F.A.S.T.”• “Arrested Development” (Season 4 only)

Currently Available at Redbox• That Awkward Moment • The Book Thief • The Wolf of Wall Street• Pompeii• Frozen

Sources: <http://mashable.com/2014/01/07/netflix-original-series-2014/#gallery/netflix-original-series-2014/534c0c5c97b2f8481500000b> and <http://www.redbox.com/movies>

Alpha Stings Alpha Stings sponsor Ms. Quinaz reports that seniors Estrella Quiroz (English) and Deidry Gomez (Science) represented Miami High at the Silver Knight Awards on May 20, 2014, at the James L. Knight located Downtown. Next year, Alpha Stings will be trying to recruit freshmen earlier in the year to help them with community service hours. (By Maggie Suarez)

MECA Interested in the Middle Eastern culture? MECA is the club for you! MECA stands for “Middle Eastern Culture Awareness”. Chemistry and biology teacher Dr. Yoham, MECA’s sponsor, is looking for students who want to learn about Middle Eastern culture (ex: dance, delicacy, etc.). MECA is also involved in local community service groups that reward students with hours. If you have a minimum 2.0 GPA and want to join MECA, see Dr. Yoham in room 3304 in the morning or after school for an application. (By Bryant Alonzo)

Law Magnet Law Magnet lead teacher Mr. Asper is proud to say that 24 seniors that were part of the Law Magnet will be graduating successfully in June. He wishes them much luck in college and advises them to be wise in all the decisions they make. He also expects next year’s Law Magnet senior class of 36 to do as well and graduate on time. (By Franisaa Areas)

School Police Officer

School police officer Mr.Garcia reminds MHS students to concentrate on bettering themselves. “If you apply yourself, you’ll be making a better future for you and your family,” he said. (By Angela Morales)

Stingaree Authors visit Alma Mater Cousins Racheal Cossio, who graduated from Miami High in 1995, and Missy Cossio, who graduated from Miami High in 2003, have written a book together called Tullybeth. Their inspiration came from their family and from living in Florida. On March 19, 2014, they came to the Miami High library to talk about their new book to Ms. Cardona’s class. The book is about little girl whose parents were in a terrible car accident but only the mother survived. The mother decides to move with her daughter to start a new life in a new hometown, where the people hate outsiders. The little girl starts to snoop around, and she finds out a deep dark secret that town has hidden for years. You can check out the book from the Miami High library! (By Maggie Suarez)

ENGLISH HONOR SOCIETY Club sponsor Mr. Montesano reported that on May 28th EHS hosted an outdoor Literary Café in the new circular patio located by the gym. Also, he would like to congratulate the club’s new officers: Jessica Trochez (President), Sebastian Saavedra (Vice President), Andrea Hernandez (Treasurer), Jennifer Valle (Secretary), Franchesca Carrera (Historian), and Angel Espinoza (Sergeant). (By Grace Marro)

Science Honor Society Science Honor Society (SHS) advisor Dr. Yoham would like to say that this year was an amazing one for SHS. He looks forward to a new year with a new president. The club is looking for members that want to learn more about science. Go by room 3304 for more information. (By Vanessa Suarez)

10th Grade Counselor On May 22-30th Mr. Lorenzo visited sophomore students in their physical education classes to tell them who will have to attend summer school. These students received a 2014 summer session application and were informed about how and when to register. Registration was held May 28th in room 116 at 3:00pm. The summer session will be from June 10th through July 24th from 11:00am through 2:30 pm, Monday through Thursdays. Students will also be required to pay a $5 fee for the summer school ID. (By Fernando Cabrera)

15Features The Miami High Times June 2014 91st Year, No.5

By Carla Valdes

You might know her because her mother is the principal’s secretary. Or you might know her as the intensive reading teacher. She’s Ms. Ivette Lopez, a relatively new teacher, and she loves her job. “I love the interaction between me and the students in this age group of 11th graders,” she said. Ms. Lopez taught at Comstock and Maya Angelou Elementary schools for 7 years and then took on the most important job in this world which is to be a stay-at-home mom for 13 years. “Even though I enjoyed teaching the younger students, I enjoy teaching the older students so much more,” she said. In college, she was studying to be a journalist but then was inspired to become a teacher. “I had a teacher in Riviera Middle school Mrs. Vogel that took the time to notice who each student was in her classroom and helped each student to realize that he or she had a voice. I found this to be so empowering that I then decided to be a teacher,” she said. Journalism really did interest her.

The Lovely Ms. Lopez

“The reason I was in Mrs. Vogel’s class was because she was my journalism teacher. I wrote for the newspaper in my middle school, helped with the yearbook in high school, and wrote for the newspaper in college,” she said. “I wanted to be a journalist or a reporter, but then as I got older, I realized that I didn’t like having to interview others all the time and the demanding hours would take away from my future family. Those are really the factors that helped me

change my careers,” she said. Though she loves her job, being the intensive reading teacher for the juniors can be hard. “I feel pressure from my students because I feel that they expect me to provide them with the strategies they need in order for them to pass the FCAT, and because of that, I try my best to do just that every day,” she said. Being a teacher is a lot of work, especially when you have a family at home, but somehow Ms. Lopez gets through it. “I try to do all of my work during school hours so that when I go home, I can give my family all of my attention. Sometimes I have

to do some school work at home, but I try to do it late at night when my kids are asleep so it doesn’t interfere with our time together,” she said. The focus of her life is her family. “I have 3 beautiful children: Matthew is 14, Rebecca is 11, and Mia is 8. I love to spend time with my family. I am a Dance Mom, but not like the ones you see on TV. I love to watch my girls dance and my son play sports. My girls compete on a dance team for

Dance Unlimited, and my son plays baseball for La Salle’s freshman team even though he is going to Columbus High school next year,” she said. She’s a teacher for the junior class re-taking the FCAT, she’s a mom, and she’s also a business owner. Is there something she doesn’t do? “When my youngest daughter started to go to school, my husband opened a document imaging company, Guardian Archives, which I managed for 5 years before I came back to teaching last year here at Miami High,” she said. Having your own business may seem easy, but it has its disadvantages. “The hardest part of managing your own business,” she said, “is to enforce what the job requirements are to the employees who have become part of your family.” The best part is

the flexibility that goes along with it. “You do your job when it needs to get done, but after that, the rest of the time is yours to do with it what you please,” she said. For students at Miami High who might want to run a business when they get older, Ms. Lopez’s advice is: “You need to know that you are not just an owner or a manager, but you are, like a teacher, there to understand, listen to, and learn from your customers and your employees so that you can continue to grow.” Being able to see her mom every day, because they work together at Miami High, is a true blessing. “My mom’s nurturing ways helped me become the person I am today. She listened to me so I am able to listen to others, she encouraged me so I am able to encourage others, and she loved me unconditionally so I am able to love others unconditionally.”

Quiz on Ms. Lopez• What subject does she teach?

• Why did she stay at home for 13 years?

• In college, what was she studying to be first?

• What does Ms. Lopez say is the hardest part about managing a business?

• Which schools did she attend?

Carvajal: the comedian, hero, and teacherBy Rosa Aguado

A lot of people know him from class; others recognize him because of his unique mustache. He has been teaching Algebra 1 at Miami High School for 14 years now. Yes, you got it! I am talking about Mr. Carvajal. His class is one of the most entertaining classes in MHS. It’s almost impossible not to enjoy going to his class every day because he is so funny. “I’ve been teaching for 14 years,” said Mr. Carvajal. “One of the advantages of being a teacher is that you get to spend a lot of time with your students. And the disadvantage is that you get to spend a lot of time with them. I can be really close with them, but it all depends on the mood I’m in. People might say my

classroom is different, but it’s not. I just try my hardest to prepare them and have a good time doing it.” Carvajal has been riding his bike to Miami High for the past 4 years, and he loves it. “I don’t know why I started riding a bike, but when my car caught on fire, I had no choice,” he said. “My wife has a minivan. I hate it. It’s an embarrassment, and it’s falling apart. Sometimes I think about buying a car, but I can’t because teachers make lousy money. And I won’t go in a debt just to look cool. I’m also waiting for someone to invent a flying car.” Riding a bike every day has it challenges. “I’ve had so many accidents lately,” he said. “I’d hit trees, stop signs, and cars. Sometimes I just fall for no apparent reason. I have also hit a couple of dogs. Oh,

and I hit an old lady once too. She was too slow, she didn’t move out of the way quickly enough, and I can’t be late to school because Mr. Valdes would fire me.” Born June 8th, 1974, in Hialeah, Mr. Cravajal is the son of Colombian parents. He says that he attended a “horrible school” and was not active in school. “I don’t like sports. I was not an athlete. I was really clumsy and skinny, so all the jocks hated me,” he said. Family is first for him. “I have three kids: Dali, Juli and Louie. I also think I have another kid in Honduras, but I’m not really sure. I got married so long ago that I don’t even remember when,” he said. Carvajal has a lot on his plate, but somehow he still manages to find time for himself and to help others.

“My favorite books are Fight Club, To Kill a Mocking Bird, and On the Road. And when I have extra time,

I dress up like Batman and fight crime.”

“My wife has a minivan. I hate it. It’s an embarrassment, and it’s falling apart,” says Mr. Carvajal, who rides his bike to school.

Intensive reading teacher Ms. Ivette Lopez is also a business owner.

16 Features The Miami High Times June 2014 91st Year, No.5

By Danaize Sanchez

This show, which includes werewolves, werewolf hunters, and all sorts of creatures, will make you cry, laugh, and scream. It will get you mad, excited, and nervous about what happens next. “Teen Wolf” is all about drama and supernatural action, with some romance that comes along the way. The MTV show first premiered on June 5th, 2011. Just by the title, you can tell that it’s related to the 1985 movie Teen Wolf, which is about a boy on his high school wrestling team who one night goes out into the woods, gets bitten by a werewolf, and turns into one overnight, giving him supernatural powers of smell, sight, hearing, and speed. One difference between the movie and the TV show is instead of wrestling as his main sport, it’s lacrosse on the TV show. With his werewolf powers, Scott

By Danaize Sanchez

We all know those mouse ears anywhere, or that logo of a castle with a star shooting above it. Yep, that’s right, I’m talking about Disney. Disney has been a part of our childhood growing up. Movies like Finding Nemo, Toy Story, and Meet The Robinsons tell you to never give up on family and friends. Other movies like Cinderella, The Princess and the Frog, and The Little Mermaid tell you that everyone is unique and has their own style. English 1 teacher Mr. Waugaman says, “I am a father of 3 beautiful young girls who all believe in princesses and fairytales. Disney has mastered this genre.” Freshman Diego Reyes says he likes Disney because it makes him feel like the world is happy, like he’s a kid again. We’ve all had that one movie from Disney that we could watch over and over again if you had the chance. For me, that movie is 101 Dalmatians. For freshman Marlen Fornes, it is Beauty and the Beast because of

its message of loving yourself and others. Diego Reyes’s favorite is The Fox and the Hound because it teaches that no matter how different, there’s always a person to call a friend. Mr. Waugaman likes Pirates Of The Caribbean mainly because of the pirates, and because he likes adventure stories. Junior Bryan Dillas likes Up because it’s a sweet and

touching movie. But it’s not just Pixar and princesses that make Disney so special. Characters such as Mickey and Minnie were what started the whole Disney empire. Freshman Andres Zacarias’s favorite character is Goofy because he is funny and caring. “People misjudge him because he’s clumsy, but he can achieve anything,” he said.

Digital design teacher Mr. Perez said his favorite character is Ariel because she reminds him of his daughter. Junior Brigette Badal’s favorite character is Woody from Toy Story because he’s cool and funny. Sophomore Jonathan Linares said he likes Donald Duck because he gets mad and loses his temper so easily, it’s funny. Most people know Walt Disney World in Orlando, which first opened October 1st, 1971, because that’s the closest park to us. Nowadays, most people go to either Magic Kingdom, Animal Kingdom, or Epcot. But either way, everyone enjoys themselves. “I went to Magic Kingdom for a middle school field trip,” says sophomore Mary Gomez. “The best parts were the rides and hanging out with

Happily Ever After With Disney

makes his way up to co-captain of the lacrosse team. During the first season, Scott gets his powers and starts dating Allison, and the struggles start when he learns that Allison’s family is full of werewolf hunters. Scott has a kind, loving heart. He’s always trying to protect everyone around him before himself. Season 2 is when things start to go even weirder. One of the guys from Scott’s lacrosse team, Jackson, starts turning into a green slimy mutation and begins murdering people all over town. It leaves no choice but for Scott, his best friend Stiles, Allison, and her dad to go hunt him down and try to turn him back. At some point during the middle of the season, they start to think that maybe they can’t turn him back to his normal self, so Derek, who was the one that turned Scott into a werewolf, insists that they kill Jackson. At the end of this

season, Jackson turns up mutating back to normal and goes to London where his father forces him to live. In Season 3, a new alpha pack of werewolves comes into town and begins to bother Scott and the gang. On top of that, a new teacher named Jennifer Blake comes to Beacon High, and has an eye for Derek. Stiles then realizes there have been multiple murders around town, known as sacrifices. One of the alphas from the pack tells Scott that he is a true alpha

who, because of his strength and good will, can turn into an alpha without having to kill one. Lydia, who’s Stiles’s love interest, is revealed to be a banshee or “Wailing Woman” because she knows where to find a murdered body and when someone’s about to be killed or is in danger. Scott and the gang end up finding out that the new teacher Jennifer is the one committing the murders to regain power for her transformation. She kidnaps Stiles’s father, Scott’s

Disney MagicP T B I T S D M D I S N E Y C H P D J W U Y O G U W W O A Y S L J X L R V D S X A Z Q Z I I E P Y E M B G O D L Z Q S R N N S I C T W N Z E B R V F W S F Q S X X X I A I Q O S V X G Z J L E A Q K B G F E X O C B T D J P C R K X E T W Q J V J D D T A D N N T A R C U N U Y D F C H M K I R A A X M Y E M D X S A F Y I R V I S R I Y A S E H S Q P A M P M S V D L G G K H R R U Z B I W B G X Y I W D R R O G S M N T M S T L C I O C B X Y C X A R O R O A

Can you find these words from the article?

DISNEY KINGDOM PIXARMAGIC PIRATES PRINCESSES

mom, and Allison’s dad as her last sacrifices. Derek’s sister Cora gets poisoned by Jennifer, and Derek saves her by giving up his alpha powers. At the midpoint of season 3, the gang ends up finding their parents and killing Jennifer. The second half of this season started in winter. I’m not going to spoil the plot for you, but I will say: dark side effects from the sacrifice-reviving method that Scott, Allison, and Stiles use to find the location of their parents begin to kick in. The show is really entertaining and usually funny because of Stiles, who is played by Dylan O’Brien. Dylan makes the show worth watching for me because he’s incredibly funny and he always worries about Lydia, whom I find pretty cute. The show’s available on iTunes, Amazon, on the actual MTV website, or you can get it on DVD and Blu-Ray. People who watch any supernatural-drama shows should tune in to this show because, trust me, by the time you finish watching the first episode, you’ll be begging for more.

Teen Wolf

friends. The worst part was the lines.” Senior Christian Cortez said, ”It gives me time to feel like a kid again before going off to college. I just hope I’ll be able to get on all the rides.”

17Features The Miami High Times June 2014 91st Year, No.5

By Jasmin Ortega

She’s the math department chairperson who is on the second floor of the first building in room 1221. She’s also the Algebra 1 teacher who gives out coupons with the letter ‘A’ on them every time you get an ‘A’ or ‘B’ on a quiz so you can earn a hall pass. She’s one of the sweetest teachers ever, and if you had her for Algebra 1, you were definitely in luck.

Early Life Mrs. Cachinero-Llovet was born and raised in Miami, Florida, where she went to St. Michael’s Catholic School, Kinloch Junior High School, and Coral Gables Senior High School. For college, she attended Miami Dade-Kendall Campus, and FIU.

She has an AA in Secondary Education and a BS and a Masters in Mathematics Education. She can sympathize with students struggling with math. “I remember having trouble in a math class in college called Non-Euclidean geometry,” said Mrs. Llovet. “Although I did pass my high school

math classes, I did have trouble in Algebra 1 with factoring; Iremember not getting the concept of it.”

For the love of Math Some students sit in class and may think: Why did this teacher pick math? Out of all the subjects, why math? Mrs. Llovet adores mathematics. She believes it’s very logical. “My college professor thought I should become a mathematics teacher, and eventually he convinced me to become a high school teacher. It took me a total of four years to become a teacher,” she said. “Two years later, I was working while I was doing my masters.” It wasn’t always easy. “Sometimes I wanted to just quit, and start another major,” she said. “I started off as an accounting major, but I just didn’t like the business aspect of it.” Out of all of the math courses to teach, she enjoys teaching Analysis of Functions the most.

Math Department Chairperson She has been the math chairperson since 2009 and was also the math coach from 2008 until last year 2013.

As the chairperson, she leads the department. “I keep my department informed of things that are happening around the school, I lead by example, I give advice if my fellow math teachers need anything, I provide them with materials if they ever need anything, and I’m in charge of book inventory,” she said.

“It is a lot of pressure and a lot is expected from me all the time,” she said, “because I’m supposed to be the person that people look up to so I have to be the voice of reason and the voice of calmness to be able to get my department through rough times.”

Teaching at the High Being a teacher means going through ups and downs, everyday, 5 times a week. “The worst thing about teaching is the apathy I find in my students, and the best thing is when they come back and say thank you.” Her favorite memory of working here was in 2005 when she won the Florida Education Association (FEA) Teacher of the Year award. She likes the changes in Miami High’s physical appearance. “It’s much cleaner now, more high-tech,” she said. “The

school is beautiful now, not that it wasn’t before, but it has gone through many vast improvements. It’s a pleasure to work here.” In terms of student body, she has seen the school improve. “I’ve seen it change from, when gangs were a real problem here, but I don’t really see that now. I don’t think that’s the case anymore,” she said.

Llovet La Familia Mrs. Llovet has been happily married for 18 years to Albert Llovet. They have two boys, Nicolas who is 12, Andrew who is 14, and a stepdaughter Aliza who is 21 and is attending Florida State. “I also have a dog, and two cats. Lucy, my dog, is a Siberian Husky, while my cats’ names are Tigger and Chloe,” she said. She loves spending time with her

Llovet Quiz

1. Where did Mrs. Llovet go for high school?A. Miami Senior HighB. Coral Gables Senior HighC. Booker T Washington

2. What kind of dog is her pet Lucy?A. Siberian HuskyB. PoodleC. Chihuahua

3. What math class did she have troubles with?A. Analysis of FunctionsB. Algebra 1C. Non-Euclidean Geometry

family, but she says teaching affects the time she has with them. “A lot of times, I’m here until 5 o’clock, when I should be home with them,” she said. “Teaching takes a lot out of you. Sometimes when I go home, I takework home and that also takes my time away to be with them.” Because teaching takes away time from her family, the time Mrs. Llovet does have with them only becomes more precious. “My family and I participate in a variety of activities. We go camping; we do a lot of scouting expeditions, such as beach clean-ups, and a lot of community service.” A typical fun day out with the family usually consists of going to the mall, going to the movies or going to eat ice-cream. “We go to Cold Stone Creamery a lot. We also love going to Starbucks,” she said. She is also close to her birth family. She has two sisters---one of whom is her twin---and two brothers. “I keep a really tight bond with them,” she said. “I speak to them all the time.” ms. llovet showiNG DieGo how

to simplifY raDicals iN orDer to aDD them

Everyone Loves Ms. Llovet

ms. llovet GoiNG over expoNeNts, preppiNG DieGo

lemus for his alGebra 1 eoc

“I’m supposed to be the person that people look up to so I have to be the voice of reason and the voice of calmness to be able to get my department through rough times.”

18 FEATURES The Miami High Times JUNE 2014 91st Year, No.5

By Angela Morales

With her short, curly, blonde hair and fine sense of style, English teacher Ms. Catalina Perez is a teacher with a charismatic and funny personality.

Miami High Alumna Ms. Perez attended Miami High and graduated with the class of 1975. At MHS, she was a member of Entre Nous, which was the French club, and the National Honor Society. Ms. Perez says that she misses all the fun activities about high school. Miami High has changed quite a bit since she was here. For example, while she was here, there was only one building instead of the 7 that we have right now, “Also, we did not have a uniform,” she says. “The dress code was not that strict from what I recall; however, everyone followed it. The students also looked a bit more formal since shorts weren’t allowed.”

Life as a Teacher Ms. Perez, who has been teaching for 35 years, currently teaches

English 3 honors and SAT prep. At first, she taught at Shenandoah Junior High, which is now Shenandoah Middle School, and has been teaching at Miami High for 27 years. She plans on staying to teach for two more years. When Ms. Perez retires, she plans to travel and enjoy her grandchildren even more. “Life has to be about the love for family and the pursuit of fun,” she says. Ms. Perez states that what she will miss the most about teaching are the students. “They are the ones that put the fun in teaching,” she says. “I enjoy coming to work every day because they are caring, fun-loving, and lovable.” Ms. Perez really enjoys being a teacher. “Teaching is a very rewarding career,” she says. “You are able to see students’ achievements throughout the years she says. Her best experience as a teacher is seeing her students becoming teachers themselves. “I have been blessed with quite a few,” she says. As a teacher, she has also dealt with tough times too. “The worst experience as a teacher is to lose a student to death,” she says.

Life Outside Of School Ms. Perez was born in Cuba but came to Miami in January of 1966 when she was only nine years old. For college, she attended the University of Miami where she got a bachelor’s degree in education and Nova Southeastern University for a

master’s degree in reading. Ms. Perez is happily married with two sons. She has two grandsons, and her first granddaughter is on the way. She also likes going to the beach, traveling, and dancing. Some of her hobbies include reading and

The Lovely Ms. Catalina Perez

“i eNjoY comiNG to work everY DaY because the stuDeNts are cariNG, fuN-loviNG, aND loveable.”

watching movies. “I read extensively so I have many favorite books,” she says. “But I really loved The Day After Tomorrow by Allan Folsom.” Ms. Perez’s favorite time of the year is summer. “I really just like to go to the beach and relax,” she says. “Everything goes at a slower pace in the summer.” She also says that our weather here in Miami is awesome, so we can really appreciate nature.

Ms. Perez Quiz

• What year did she graduate from Miami High?

• How long has she been teaching at Miami?

• What courses does Ms. Perez teach?• What colleges did she

attend?• What is Ms. Perez’s

favorite book?

Queen Bee MissickBy Roxanna Soto

You sometimes see her with a cheerleading jersey that names her Queen-Bee or you may have walked into her office and noticed the many dolphins on her walls or shelves. She is the cheerleading advisor and the 12th grade counselor helping seniors graduate, Ms. Marcia Missick. In 1999, Ms. Missick was a social worker in an AIDS program, and her clients were terminally ill. “It was hard on me so I decided to go back to school and get my master’s degree,” she said. “I wanted to work in a field where I could see people grow and progress in life rather than at the end of their life.” Before she came to MHS, she was a counselor at Citrus Grove Middle for 9 years. “In middle school you have to deal with ‘she said, he said’ problems. In high school you get to watch students grow from boys and

girls to adults,” said Ms. Missick. “I absolutely and truly love my job. I feel like I have the best job. I just don’t like the pay. I don’t think the school system pays us fair and equitably for the amount of education we have. ” She believes that she has positively influenced some students’ lives. “The fact that they choose to come back after graduating to keep me up on how they’re doing means I probably did have an impact on them,” said Ms. Missick. “Ms. Missick has a way of making people feel stupid but loved at the same time,” said senior Gracia Kabuanseya. “Knowing her for four years, I can say

Ms. Missick is one of the most knowledgeable, down-to-earth, honest people you’ll ever meet.

As a counselor, she’s always there for

you no matter the situation. She’ll stick by

you and push you to do your best. I love her,” said senior Genesis Felizola. Ms. Missick graduated from North Miami Beach High and graduated at the age of 16 by taking extra

classes and going to every summer school when it was

available. Although she isn’t a Miami High graduate, she says MHS has a tendency to grow on you, and she now truly bleeds blue and gold.

Born in A t l a n t a , Georgia, Ms.

Missick lived there for 18 months then came to Miami because her mom wanted to come back home. “My childhood was a great one. We traveled a lot. I even got to go to Disney World the first year it opened in 1975. I went to a private school called St. Mary’s Cathedral. I got to grow up with my same friends from first grade to eighth grade,” said Ms. Missick. After graduating high school, she studied at Miami Dade for 2 years. She was in her third year of college at St. Thomas University by the age of 19. Ms. Missick has never in her life had an interest in cheerleading. She started 6 years ago when a group of cheerleaders needed a chaperone to go on a trip and asked her. She agreed to go, and told Mr. Valdes if the cheerleaders needed anything else, she would do it. He then told her they were in need of an advisor, and that’s how she “got stuck” as the

cheerleading advisor, but overall she has enjoyed being the cheerleading advisor, some years more than others. “Ms. Missick is a supportive, understanding, and fun-loving woman. She always has the interest of her cheerleaders in mind. She deals with our problems in the most sensitive way possible and helps us overcome any obstacles we may have individually,” said junior cheerleader Alexia Ubiera. After 6 years of guiding the cheerleading team to where it’s at now, she’s handing over the job to Ms. Sands, English facilitator for the SPED Department. “As far as try-outs and picking the squad, the system is well established and operates smoothly.” said Ms. Missick. “I’m getting older and I feel like the cheerleaders need an infusion of new blood. I would also love a summer vacation. Cheerleading takes up a lot of it, and practices are volunteered, not paid.”

Ms. Missick is turning over the cheerleaders to Ms. Sands

19Sports The Miami High Times June 2014 91st Year, No.5

By Lisette Falco

From playing libero in volleyball to assisting in surgery at the University of Miami Hospital, Micaela Garcia, or “Mica,” seems to do it all.

School Mica manages to maintain an outstanding GPA of 4.9 while juggling medical assisting teacher Ms. Turner’s “Senior Program” and dual enrollment ENC 1101. She is also an active member in many clubs such as Historical Honor Society, HOSA, and Interact. After graduating from Miami High, she plans to attend either Barry University or FIU and plans to continue playing volleyball in college. She plans to study forensic psychology. She said, “I want to move out and live in my own apartment with a roommate.” She also would like to travel to California and North or South Carolina to attend school there after finishing at FIU or Barry.

On the court, in the O.R... It’s Mica

Finding MiCaela U H K O H H O S A S U P EP O K L O G Z G K T A U HS N R N M I J U H C T U PS O E G E H X F J I O E JE R T V H I T Q V R R I RG S S F E M B W A T E N YE A I S A A A N S S B T SL H S E L I B E A I I E EL P Y L T M S I T D L R NO U I D H D W C A X E A IC G I F A M I L Y T H C OQ G C R I T H M A I C T RS M I J D F H F E X Y B U

Can you Find these words FroM the story?

College hosadigs interaCt

distriCts liberoFaMily MiaMi high

hoMe health aid seniorhonors sis ter

Micaella, in the middle, with her fellow seniors on the volleyball team

Mica posing at HOSA States with best friend Jordan Galeas

HOSA On April 12, 2014, Mica competed in the HOSA state competition for

Home Health Aide, making Miami High proud by winning 2nd place in the state of Florida. Practice for the competition was held every A day in

Ms. Turner’s class for 6 weeks. “I’d like to thank fellow students Jordan Galeas and Gretchen Collazo and Ms. Turner for helping me practice. Without them, I wouldn’t be where I am today,” she said. “I feel like I accomplished a big goal that I honestly did not expect to meet at first.” In order to compete in HOSA, you must first pass an online test, which is considered round one. If you pass, then you can advance into round two, which is the hands-on part of the competition. You are brought into a room with 20 competitors from other schools in south Florida. Then you are split into districts and brought into a room one by one and asked to perform different procedures depending on your category. For Home Health Aide, Mica had to study procedures such as “changing a dressing using sterile technique” and “emptying a urinary drainage unit.” Mica passed round one with flying colors, then advanced to round two where she won 3rd place in her district, and was able to advance to states.

Volleyball Mica has a lot on her plate, but she

makes time for her favorite sport, volleyball. She has been a part of the girls’ volleyball team at MHS for 3 years and a half now, and the team made it to districts in her last season as a senior. Unfortunately, the team did not win, but she says it was an experience she’ll never forget. “The best moment of my season was the Gables game, where I broke my record of digs, and when I was given my position as libero,” she said, “but the worst had to be losing districts against Miami Beach Senior High.”

Outside life Born on October 12, 1995, Micaela is the youngest in her family following her sister Nataly Garcia. Mica’s family originates from Buenos Aires, Argentina, but she was born in Miami. In her free time, Mica enjoys playing Xbox, drawing, hanging out with her friends, and spending time with her boyfriend, Gabriel Padron. She also makes time to have at least one family day in the week to go out to dinner with her family. Mica doesn’t have a job at the moment, but she is an active intern at the University of Miami Hospital, where she is able to observe and sometimes assist in medical procedures and surgeries.

The Miami high times june 2014 91st year no.5News20

Miami High’s football is back on the map after beating Barbara Goleman 36-6 on May 22nd in the Spring Game. Coach Rosales said the team is progressing the way he expected. “The team is more mature and stronger than we were last year,” he said. “We’re moving forward and headed in the right direction in order to compete for a District Championship. Murphy Theodore will be back at starting quarterback for the fall season, which will make us a threat in the air and on the ground.” Coach Rosales reports that the top performers offensively were Keyshawn ‘Pie’ Young with two touchdowns, Trent Gordon with two rushing touchdowns, and Everett Evans with a fumble recovery for a long run before being tackled at the 5 yard line. Defensively, the top performers were Joshua Sierra, with a forced fumble and a fumble recovery, and Rahiem Ladson, with a sack. (By Joshua Sierra)

Football captains Keyshawn Young, Joshua Sierra, Harrison Riggins and Andre Hart.

Boys volleyball coach Jose Garcia reports, “We finished our season with a record of 25-5. We won districts, and we made it to state regionals, but we lost against Ransom High School. Our top performers were all juniors: Demitrius Maloney, who served as an offensive player and is the second setter and outside hitter; Manny Melenciano, who during the second half of our season was our leading scorer per match and got more kills than anybody else on the team; Rafael Cabanzon, who was our best defender on the floor at all times; and Eduar Matute, who was our best defender on the net.” (By Rosa Aguado)

Boys volleyball taking a team picture after winning Districts against Miami Springs.

Stings Win big in Spring Game against Barbara Goleman

District Champions

long and everything had to be done perfectly in order for us to move on.” “The tech rehearsals were hard because they took forever to figure the lighting out,” said senior Yesenia Sotelo. Junior Jomarie Santiago said the hardest part of rehearsals was getting everybody at once to practice the whole thing. Despite all the hard work, most can agree the show was a success. “Over all, everything

Continued from Page 1

was really good. The dancing, singing, and the props were amazing as well.” said sophomore Flavia Trujillo, who was in the audience. That doesn’t mean there is no room for improvement. Junior Jeimy Mineros, who acted in the show, said, “I would have liked more people helping out In the dressing room because, honestly, we were on our own, and we needed help to change and put make up on. I came out in the Munchkins without my makeup on while everyone else had their makeup done.” Freshman Jada Thurston would have liked the microphones to work better and not break every couple of minutes because sometimes you couldn’t hear what the characters were saying. Junior Alexia Ubiera would rather have had the show held during school because she thinks more people would have showed up.

The cast of The Wiz in the state of the art theatre, that Ms. Brooks wanted to “put to use.”

Scarecrow- Jefer Medina, Dorothy- Isabel Tucen, Tin Man- Gracia Kabuanseya, and Lion- Cesar Collado.

The Wiz wows in the state of the art auditorium