Predator - December 2012 by Wharton High School - Predator Newspaper

PREDATOR PAUL R. WHARTON HIGH SCHOOL

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Dec. 7, 2012

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Volume 16 Issue 2

Redefining tradition

Projec t Butter fly

Created for self-harmers who feel they are ready to stop and need the motivation or support to do so. Page 10 & 11

HEALTH To pee or not to pee... That is the question. Page 9

Chick-fil-A vs. PDQ: Which local chicken hotspot comes out on top? Page 7

Students, parents seeing red over graduation gown changes By haley gonzalez

online editor-in-chief • news editor

AUTOMOTIVE Is the Smart car really “smart”? Page 17

SPORTS

Wharton’s “Busch Babies” make their mark on the Wildcat varsity basketball team. Page 20

revious graduate’s biggest concerns were getting straight A’s, sending in college applications and making lasting memories. However, for the graduates of 2013, heavier matters are weighing on seniors’ minds. This year’s graduating class will no longer be distinguished by the contrasting blue and white caps. Unlike preceding years, members of the graduating class, honors and regular, will be unified in blue caps and gowns rather than just white for honors students. “After watching graduations for the last four years and doing some research about the history of Wharton graduations, I decided I wanted to look at returning to the original graduation traditions established when the school opened,” Principal Bradley Woods said. “Graduations over the last four years have looked like two separate ceremonies. I wanted to create a sense of one

senior class and then recognize those students that achieved more than the minimum graduation requirements.” The people who have achieved more than the minimum requirements will now be acknowledged with a white honors sash.

“

recognized] there will be an approval process through the faculty Steering Committee to determine which groups will be recognized,” Woods said. Despite the fact that the school is allowing honors students and students in varying clubs to be recognized, many are still perturbed.

I wanted to create a sense of one senior class and then recognize those students that achieved more than the I n addition minimum graduation to the requirements. white sash,

“

JUNGLE LIFE

Photo illustration By • Alex montgomery Graduation blues - Senior Ana Fischer reflects on her lost opportunity to graduate in white as promised to her as a reward for good grades throughout her four years at Wharton. For the Class of 2013, Principal Bradley Woods has decided to return to Wildcat tradition and have the entire senior class graduate in blue regardless of grade-point average.

“When entering h i g h school freshman students year we will be Bradley Woods allowed to w e r e Principal wear varying presented cords and patches with the that if we for the clubs in which they opportunity graduated with a participate. However, there may be a limit GPA of 4.0 or higher we to the number of chords students would wear white gowns. This is will be allowed to wear. basically breaking a promise we Previous years, only National were given to begin with,” Kelly Honor Society members were to Rogowski, senior, said. Although some students dislike be recognized, but this year many more clubs will be recognized at the sudden change many other graduation. people don’t think that the color “[For choosing clubs to be one wears at graduation makes a

significant difference. “I don’t really have a vested interest in what colors you guys wear. My vested interest is that the knowledge is in your head, not what you wear. As long as I know that when you pass my class you have learned something you can wear purple, blue, grey; it doesn’t affect me,” Christopher Hart, AP Physics, engineering and astronomy teacher, said. The reversion back to a singlecolored graduation is not only occurring at Wharton. King has already decided that the IB, honors and regular students will all be graduating in the same color as well. “I started freshman year IB and I will graduate IB despite the fact that the color of my gown has changed. Sure, it is a disappointment, but I know I will succeed in the future because of my high school experiences, not the color of my gown,” Roy Peng, King IB senior, said. In the mean time, students are focusing on their work and setting out to get good grades and a good education rather than to get a special color of a graduation gown.

news

Dec. 7, 2012

Predator

Puerto Rico debates statehood; uncertainty remains in debacle BY MANAL benyamine CLUB EDITOR

PHOTO BY • Mark Randall/south florida sun-sentinel/mctcampus tO BE OR NOT TO BE - Puerto Rico natives Sonia Vizcarrondo-Rizarry and her husband Rafi Escudero-Miranda of Wellington, FL, are on different sides of the Puerto Rico statehood debate, July 3. Sonia prefers commonwealth and Rafi prefers statehood.

n Nov. 6, Puerto Rico voted to change their status from a selfgoverning commonwealth to join the US as a state. Puerto Rico has been a US Territory since 1898 as a byproduct of the Spanish American War. For 114 years, the island has been a dominion of the US with little economic and political interference from the US. “Puerto Rico has lived with their own traditions and culture for 114 years and if we become a state all of their culture could be lost,” Spanish teacher Zoe Miro said. “And how long would the transition take for Puerto Rico to become a state?” In the two-part referendum, the citizens of Puerto Rico answered two questions; the first being whether or not they wanted to change their status. The second provided them with three alternatives: to become a state, to become an independent nation or to become a “sovereign free association.” “I am in favor of Puerto Rico becoming a state instead of remaining a commonwealth, be-

“To laugh often and love much; to win the respect of intelligent persons and the affection of children; to earn the appreciation of honest citizens and endure the betrayal of false friends; to appreciate beauty; to find the best in others; to give of one’s self; to leave the world a bit better, whether by a healthy child, a garden patch or a redeemed social condition; to have played and laughed with enthusiasm and sung with exultation; to know even one life has breathed easier because you have lived—this is to have succeeded” -”Success” by Ralph Waldo Emerson

In loving memory of

Maggie King Dee ~Successful teacher and friend

cause they receive so much from the United States anyway so that would be the ideal status,” Spanish teacher Virginia Diaz said. Their status as a self-governing commonwealth entitles Puerto Ricans to US Citizenship and, although they cannot vote, they have a representative in Congress. “If Puerto Rico becomes inde-

statehood, which I am in favor for, then it will give them certain rights that they do not have now, like having more of a political influence in the US,” Bi-lingual para Joe Mendez said. “Also the possibility of better jobs with better pay.” Out of the last three referendums, the first being in 1967, this survey received more than half opting to become a state “If Puerto Rico becomes in- and the other tries in 1993 dependent, they would lose and 1998 Puerto Ricans favored independence. some of their freedom that they “I prefer Puerto Rico to stay have with the US right now” a commonwealth becasue we consider ourselves Puerto Ricans not Americans,” Sebastian Mejia, junior, said. The majority asked for cristina fuentes statehood. However, there is Sophomore a significant amount of Puerto Ricans who left the ballot blank – over half a million – pendent, they would lose some of causing political uncertainty. their freedom that they have with “I would like to see Puerto Rico the US right now,” Cristina Fuen- make up their mind on what they tes, sophomore, said. want,” Miro said. Of the eligible voters, 54 percent In Puerto Rico, people think that voted to change the status while becoming a state could excede ev46 percent voted to leave it as is. In eryone’s expectations and become the second part of the question 61 an instant benefit to the US. perecent voted for statehood, 33 Therefore, the next step for percent called for sovereign free Puerto Rico is to choose what they association, and 5 percent called want: whether it is independence, for complete independence. statehood, sovereignty or to con“If Puerto Rico had voted for tinue their present status.

news

Predator

Dec. 7, 2012

Man invents portable cardboard bicycle BY CATHY PAHL

fragile device, this bike can actually support up to 485 lbs, and is stronger than carbon fiber. “I was sent away and told that n invention is defined as a unique or novel the realization of my idea is imdevice, method, com- possible,” Gafni said to a Newsposition or process. week reporter. The development process of the Izhar Gafni, 50, had an inspiration, drew up a plan and cre- bike took three years. A majority ated his own unique and novel of the time was spent working device: a bicycle made entirely out the kinks that came with usof cardboard and recycled ma- ing cardboard. After Gafni fixed the problems, he developed a terials. "I was always fascinated by prototype which he called, “the applying unconventional tech- cardboard box on wheels.” Gafni did not believe the originologies to materials and I did nal design of the this on several occasions. But “I was sent away and told bike was aesthis was the cul- that the realization of my thetically pleasing, and that mination of a idea is impossible.” it might make few things that people less came together," likely to buy Gafni told ReIZHAR GAFNI the bike when it uter’s reporters INVENTOR OF CARDBOARD was put on the Ori Lewis and BIKE market. Lianne Gross. His new misThe idea came sion was to take to Gafni when he heard about someone who his properly working cardboard built a cardboard canoe. The bike and make it look relatively idea of a boat made of cardboard normal. He started by folding the cardstuck in his head. After a long brainstorming process, he came board, a technique similar to Japanese origami. up with the idea for The Alfa. Gafni came up with a design The Alfa is a lightweight, inexpensive bike that is constructed that was both functioning as well as pleasing to look at. Yet anof cardboard. Although it may sound like a other complication arose. Gafni

STAFF WRITER

needed to find a way to make the cardboard sustainable through water. “It won’t get rusty now,” Mark Hughes, senior, said. “I wouldn’t

makes it fireproof as well. Gafni is working with a company to raise the funds to mass produce the product. If the bike makes it to production, it should cost $9 to $12 for adult bikes and as low as $5 for a child bike. “The price suprised me, ‘cause it’s 20 bucks but it’s still cardboard,” Hughes said. This inexpensive bike could change life for people all over the world. Bikes could be supplied to all minors attending school in small school districts, and if the bike can handle unpaved roads, children in third world countries could be supiLLUSTRATION BY • CARIN COURSEY plied with the bikes for a better form of transportation. be afraid if it got damaged.” Unique and novel devices, or This task was hard for Gafni inventions, can be very benefito overcome, but he managed to cial for many, but for Izhar Gafni, make a substance that not only this invention was the product of makes the bike waterproof but a long thought out, inspired idea.

Need for green energy grows worldwide BY MADISON GIARRIZZO STAFF WRITER

iodiesel, ethanol, wind, solar; they all mean the same thing: alternative energy. Using alternative energy can not only be beneficial to the environment but also to your wallet. The Federal and State Legislatures have established incentives for people to try to convince them to use alternative energy. According to Florida Statue 163.08, those who want to install EVSE (Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment) have two options: they can either apply to their local government for assistance in the financing of the installation or they can enter into a financing agreement with their local government. “I might not be interested in building one (EVSE) right now, the fact that there is an incentive for installing one motivates me more to build one when I’m older,” Ilouisa Salazar, junior, said. A car that runs on alternative energy can save students a good amount of money. That means that we now have more money to

iLLUSTRATION BY • CARIN COURSEY splurge on food, shopping, movies, and much more. The Toyota Prius is the most well-known and widely available hybrid car in the United States. The Prius Family, including the Prius Plug-In Hybrid, can save gas money. The Prius Plugin Hybrid has a 95 miles per gal-

lon gas equivalent. More miles to a gallon means less time and money spent constantly filling your car up with gas, which is incentive enough for any teenager. According to TECO (Tampa Electric Company) the annual cost of gas is $1,636 while the annual cost of

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electricity to power a hybrid is $349; that’s an annual savings of $1,287. “I work on minimum wage, and when I get my paycheck I hate having to spend most of it on gas money,” Breanna Stackpole, junior, said. “I would love not to spend so much money on gas.” Incentives to use alternative energy don’t always have to be money related. People are starting to become more and more educated about the effects of fossil fuels and energy and opening up to the idea of using more alternative energy sources. According to carbonify.com’s Carbon dioxide emmisons calculater and US Department of Transportation’s Federal Highway Administration, an average/ medium car that runs an average of 13,476 miles a year releases 89.2956 tons of carbon emmisons annually. The number of trees needed to offset all that carbon emmisons is 446.478 trees annually. “I didn’t realize how much your car’s emissions hurt the environment, but by using alternative energy we can help lower the amount (of emissions) that are released in the air,” Salazar

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said. “Saving the earth one car at a time.” Although there are no monetary incentives available through the state of Florida for use of biofuels or alternative energy, there are tax incentives. According to House Bill 7117, 2012, and Florida Statutes 220.192, an income tax credit is available for 75 percent of all capital operation, maintenance and research and development costs in incurred in connection with an investment in the production, storage and distribution of biodiesel, ethanol, or any other renewable fuel in the state. This adds up to $1 million annually per taxpayer and $10 million annually for all taxpayers combined. While the tax benefits may not seem all great to a teenager, the benefits carry over to adulthood and can benefit young adults to buy or keep their electronic powered hybrid car. “I want to help save the earth, and if there are incentives for using alternative energy, that’s just an added bonus,” Stackpole said. Alternative energy is not just good for your wallet but also the planet. So do the earth a favor, make the switch.

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Dec. 7, 2012

SCHOOL news

Predator

Talent parked in students’ garage they love it,” Widell said. In addition to covering famous Entertainment editor alternative bands like Artic Monkeys and Bayside, Billy Shakes High school allows multiple and the Spears also create original outlets for creativity, but some- songs written by Widell. Often, times the easiest place to look is these songs are inspired by “high not to a club or a team; it is in your school stuff, teenage things.” very own garage. “I like to write about things Wharton is home to various I know. Write about what you musical artists from Indie Rock know, right?” Widell said. to Rap, all with a wide variety On the other side of the musical of followers. Some have spectrum, however, is junior Saybeen musicians for quon King, who raps under the years, others are stage name “Gitt Swift.” King is just starting o u t not your run of the mill teen who on their mus i - drops beats with a pen or pencil cal journey of self- during class and freestyles. He is discovery. What i s a performer who has released an common among all independent record and is curthe various artists, rently in talks with Def Jam reis that Wharton High cords. In addition, he also School has talent. is a veteran rapper who “I want One such band is has been doing so since people to like it Billy Shakes and the he was 6 years old! Spears, a self-deWhat sets King apart because our music scribed “alternative is what he chooses is good, not because pop” band formed by to write about. we’re friends with senior and juniors Jackson “I do posithem.” Widell (lead vocals/guitar); tive rap. It’s JACKSON WIDELL regular rap… Thomas Tonelli (guitar); SENIOR Brett Cazes (drums); and CarWhen you usulos Lopez (bass). Formed early ally hear about this year, these rockers have alteen rappers you ready amassed a fan base of stuhear about guns, girls, cars dents and outsiders alike. and clothes so I had to change it “I want people to like it because and just show people that you our music is good, not because don’t have to fit in just by doing we’re friends with them. I’ve giv- something that you don’t want to en it (their CD) to other places and do. You can still be the same per-

By Will Barnes

Photo by • Scott Sollazzo dream weavers - Jackson Widell, senior, and Thomas Tonelli, junior, jam out with their band, at the Market on 7th Avenue during the Thanksgiving break. Formed early this year, Billy Shakes and the Spears have already amassed a fan base of students and outsiders alike. son and be positive and make a change in your life,” he said. Students aren’t the only ones at catching the music fever; in fact, a teacher has been a victim of this disease since he was young. Raoul Zayas, (or as bar-goers know him as, Butch Ryan) teaches television productions and is part of several bands, such as The Butch Ryan Band, Groovy Cool and the Morning Glories.

Zayas, who has played the guitar since high school, decided to re-ignite his passion for music when one of his friends passed away after a battle with brain cancer. Coupled with his love of Classic Rock and Americana, Zayas gathered many of his old friends together to create the previously stated bands. “I try to play with as many mu-

sicians as possible,” Zayas said. Zayas takes his hobby very seriously and can be spotted with his guitar at gigs scattered around the bay area, even at the Tampa Bay Buccaneers games. If you have a passion for music and a drive to stand out, you don’t need to look farther than the confines of your house. Music will find you. Rock on.

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Predator

school news

Dec.7, 2012

Project Beautiful empowers girls carried on through her junior year until she finally found a sponsor. CLUB EDITOR Shanika Abdullah, math teacher, accepted the challenge to be the very student hopes to sponsor of Project Beautiful. “I think that Project Beautiful is leave their mark in high school and they have a good outlet for young women to four years to achieve this express their opinions, thoughts, and concerns that they may go important goal. Senior Jasity Rush has achieved through in their life,” Abdullah her goal by initiating a club at said. “I am glad to be part of a club that allows young women to have Wharton. a voice.” “I hope that The club the club continues after “I am glad to be part of a club has about 20 memI leave so if that allows young women to bers, each i come back have a voice.” wanting to i would feel be a part proud that i of this speaccomplished cial club in something Shanika Abdullah W h a r t o n great,” Rush commusaid. Math teacher nity. Project “I love the Beautiful was created to have a community club so far, I think it is great to have for the Wharton girl population a club of all girls like this,” vice and to help out the community president, Roxann Newman said. Project Beautiful has asaround them. “I wanted to have something pirations of being more inlike this because if a girl is going volved with the community through a tough situation they around the school as well. For instance, the club’s memcan turn to their family here at bers wrote inspirational letters to school,” Rush said. Rush wanted to start this club hospice patients in order to cheer her sophomore year. However, it them up and held a successful took a lot of time and effort to get candy drive for the troops. “I chose the name ‘Project Beaueverything in order. This includes getting a sponsor and finding a tiful’ because I want everyone room to hold the meetings. This to know that beauty is defined

BY MANAL BENYAMINE

Photo by • scott sollazzo not just any project - Club founder Jasity Rush, senior, and Victoria Neault, freshman, work on cards for Teacher Appreciation Week. The club members could selectively choose a teacher to give it to, or they could make anonymous ones for all teachers in the school. in what you do,” Rush said. “I wanted to make it a project to strengthen our community.”

Rush has succeeded in starting something to insure her name being remembered after she gradu-

ates. “I feel confident that the club will go on next year,” Rush said.

To students, faculty, and parents: Thank you for all the support!

The Wildcat Nation cannot be brought down.

BLUE

CREW

COLLEGE

Predator

My Two Cents

Dec. 7, 2012

An uphill battle...

Students fight to make mark by joseph parades staff writer

Olivia Mahanor College Editor

Is college worth it? College is sought out to be the best years of your life, but in the long run is college really worth it? Take a second to think about it, especially in this day of age. The average public Florida university can cost approximately $60,000 for someone to live on campus and earn a bachelor’s degree. Attending a Florida public college while living at home all four years could run $30,000. What students have to keep in mind is that just because we have a degree, does not mean we will land a good paying job right off the bat. Then you have to take into consideration that your intended major may take more than four years, and the expenses will keep adding up. The unemployment rate which is currently 7.9 percent is high. Americans have no clue on what might happen with the job market. So if the outcome of the job market is unknown, attending college can be risky. and costly. I’m not trying to veer anyone away from going to college, Having a higher education is an extremely important, and those who can afford it should go. But for the Americans that may be financially struggling there are alternative routes to choose that cost a lot less money to attend and just might offer a better chance of finding a good job. For example, there are trade schools. A benefit of attending a trade school is that you are more likely to find a job, because you are applying for jobs directly in your field of study. Schools like Galen School of Nursing, ITT Tec, and Everest may be a good option for you. You have to remember that only you can choose the path that is best for you, but you don’t have to go in debt for life following that path.

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t’s a struggle, and you can be your biggest obstacle. At the start of their educational career, students embark on the journey to attain the perfect grade. However, this journey is soon met by various obstacles which cause a mental struggle within students themselves. “My biggest problem is time management,” Risa Brudney, senior, said. “It’s hard for me to balance school with all other aspects of my life.” In today’s society, students not only take on rigorous classes, but, in addition, they participate in extracurricular activities such as varsity sports, school clubs and other organizations. Suddenly, all aspects of a student’s life; both in and out of school, become too much for many. “Having to deal with band, honor society clubs and both honors and AP classes is very stressful,” Jennifer Kaczmarek, senior, said. “It’s really tricky to keep everything balanced.”

Photo by • gigi jackson work hard, play hard - Junior Jeffrey Keil works hard during class on his trig homework to get an ‘A’ in his class. For the past three years, Keil has balanced his time between schoolwork and football. So how can a student struggling to get the perfect grade in addition to outside stress swing the odds in his or her favor? “A strong work ethic,” John Viola, math teacher, said. “The stronger the work ethic, the better the grade. One needs to take it se-

riously, eliminate all distractions. Television, cell phones, get all that out of the way and focus on your studies.” Yet, for some students it is close to impossible to not get distracted with their surroundings. “I lose focus sometimes,” Lily

Bufano, senior, said. “Staying off of both my Twitter and cell phone is really hard to do.” For others, it is an intense curriculum that gets the best of them. No matter what the situation, it seems like earning the perfect grade is a lose-lose scenario. Still, there are ways with coping with the struggle that is getting the perfect grade. “Don’t stress,” Brudney said. “Obviously doing well in school is important but if one class just isn’t your thing and it doesn’t work out the way you want it to, it shouldn’t define or further stress you.” While for most students, earning an “A” is the goal, if may cause the question to arise: is it really the perfect grade? “I think everyone has the idea that an ‘A’ is the perfect grade,” Kaczamarek said. “But to me the grade you get when you put in your best effort is actually the perfect grade. You get out what you put in!” Perhaps all students can learn from Kaczamarek’s mantra. A little self-discipline and time management can work wonders.

Select scholarships go unnoticed Phil Jones, executive director of the Hillsborough Education staff writer Foundation, said. Students often put off applyany students don’t ing for scholarships because they know where to start have to fill out a new application when it comes time for every scholarship for which to search for schol- they apply. The Hillsborough arships. Some even believe that Education Foundation helps that scholarships are just awarded by allowing students to apply for to star athletes or brainiacs, but several scholarships all on one apthey’re wrong. There are a variety plication. Scholarships are being of scholarships that just haven’t accepted through the Foundation been broadcast yet; ready for stu- until Jan. 11, 2013. Students can visit www.educationfoundation. dents to apply to them. “I want to do some research com to apply. “The Foundation, in partnerto see what scholarships are available to me, and that I qualify for,” ship with the community, indisenior Jennifer Taylor said. “I’m vidual and corporate donors, ofthinking about taking advantage fers a variety of scholarships to of the left-handed scholarship. students in Hillsborough County Might as well get something out Public Schools,” Jones said. of that! And I plan on asking Ms. Hillsborough Education Foundation ScholarRodriquez ships (Wharton’s Some of college and “Our mission is to engage busi- the scholarcareer counselor) for ness and community in support ships offered help with of Hillsborough County Public through the Foundation that.” Schools and the academic include The The HillH. s b o r o u g h achievement of all its students.” Arthur Henderson Education Foundation, phil jones M e m o r i a l HCC Kiwanis established executive director of hillsborough Scholarship, 24 years county public schools worth $3,000, ago, has which is availworked to able to stuget Hillsborough County recognized for its dents with a 3.25 GPA or higher excellent public schools and, as a who plan on attending Hillsborcommunity, is committed to hav- ough Community College and ing every one of its students suc- whose family income is under $50,000. The Doug Walker Memoceed. “Our mission is to engage busi- rial Scholarship (worth $2,000) is ness and community partners in available to students with a 2.5 support of Hillsborough County GPA or higher who are on the Public Schools and the academic school’s varsity basketball team. The Hillsborough Educators’ achievement of all its students,”

by paige roderick

PHOTO BY • gIGI jACKSON CASH FLOW - seniors log onto the Hillsborough Education Foundation to discover unknown scholarships. One completed application is sent to over 149 sponsoring institutions. Child Scholarship (worth $1,000) is available to students with a 3.0 GPA or higher, who have at least one parent working for the Hillsborough County Public Schools, who are involved with school activities, who plan on attending a two or four year university and who have community service hours. “Students need to use this website to their advantage and take time to look at it and read through it. You’re only competing with Hillsborough County seniors. Kids don’t take the time and if you take the time, your chances are higher at getting a scholarship. Take the chance,” Magda Rodriquez, college and career counselor, said. The Right Fit Foundation an-

nounced that there is even a new scholarship available this year to Hillsborough and Pasco County students worth $5,000. One scholarship will be awarded and preference will be given to middle-income families. To qualify, students must be a US citizen, a resident of Pasco or Hillsborough County and have a weighted GPA of 3.0 or higher. The application is available on The Right Fit Foundation website and the deadline to apply is Jan. 15. “I think this scholarship is a great idea because it is hard for some students to get scholarships due to their grades, so it would be easy to apply for,” junior Laura Arose said. “The only downfall is only one student can receive the scholarship.”

U GE IE

Paul R. Wharton High School

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Volume 14 Issue 2

Let the food battles begin

PHOTO illustration BY • SCOTT SOLLAZZO Reed AlTEr, Junior, Devours PDQ ChiCken Strips and Chick - fil- a nuggests - Alter, along with many Wharton students make the difficult decision of choosing between the classic Chick-fil-a and the rookie, PDQ. The new champion chicken restaurant was declared to be PDQ, who won 2-1 against Chick-fil-a.

By Nikki Morse Co-Sports Editor In this corner of the ring we have the reigning regional champion, Chick-Fil-A. Coming in with more than 1600 locations nationwide and a huge fan base, this competitor will be hard to beat. And in this corner, PDQ weighs in with a total of four locations. This new-comer will definitely have some ground to make up. These two rivals will go head to head in a three round elimination match for the spot as top chickenbased fast food restaurant this side of the Sunshine Skyway. Round 1: Inside Dining Experience. While Chick-Fil-A tries to hold its own, PDQ definitely pulls head in this category. When customers walk in, the atmosphere is cozy with fun music playing in the background and comfortablelooking booths and tables placed around the restaurant. After placing an order at the register, the customer’s name is called on a loud-speaker so he or she “doesn’t miss the memo”.

Unlike Chick-Fil-A, PDQ has two televisions placed in opposite corners broadcasting mainly ESPN and the news, and a comfortable bar-like seating area around the kitchen. This new-comer throws a mean right hook as it also offers an outside patio seating area and fans that simultaneously spray mist while circulating. The seating, energy and atmosphere seem more homelike than Chick-Fil-A, which is rather generic. Round 1: PDQ- 1 and Chick-Fil-A- 0. Round 2: Menu Variety Nuggets, sand-

PDQ, customers only have three dinner options: tenders, sandwich or salad. Chick-Fil-A definitely reigns supreme in this category. The menu has a wider variety than PDQ and has options for every meal. At breakfast, grab a cinnamon cluster, hash browns, a breakfast burrito or even a biscuit. For dessert, there r

fo ionesp m cha food rg n y i st eignsed fahine Sk, r e th ba ns DQ out icken-the Suness, P g n are f ch ki si nocas topis side ocal buwn. even K : more PDthQe spuortanthtehlittlesltohe cro options ta ay, t take like a w

wiches, parfaits, pancakes, soup, fruit salad, wraps, sundaes. That’s naming only a morsel of the options that Chick-Fil-A has to offer. They offer breakfast, lunch, dinner and dessert, as well a few specialty items that are only available at some locations. Meanwhile at

cookie sundae, a fudge brownie or chocolate chip cookies. Round 2: Chick-FilA is the obvious winner, leaving the score PDQ- 1 and Chick-FilA- 1. Round 3: Service This is it; the tie-breaker round. After careful examination and

scrutinization of the service at each restaurant, we have a winner. The new-comer, PDQ, has amazing customer-friendly service. The head chef supervises the open kitchen area, calls customer orders over the loud speaker and asks for any special requests, like ranch or extra napkins, for your meal. If a customer just so happens to not hear his order, it’s fine; a worker brings it over to them. At Chick-Fil-A the service is mediocre at best. If a customer misses his or her name being called, nobody comes to bring it. The employees hold it to the side until it is collected by the customer, which leads to the misfortune of cold food Round 3: PDQ- 2 and Chick-Fil-a- 1. At the end of this three round elimination match, the rookie, PDQ, reigns supreme. Although Chick-Fil-A has better menu variety, PDQ has a better insidedining experience and service. Knocking out the reigning champion for the spot as top chickenbased fast food restaurant this side of the Sunshine Skyway, the little local business, PDQ, takes the crown.

Chicken Fight Which would you choose? “I like the spices in the PDQ chicken better because it is more flavorful.” Gabriella Gonzalez, freshman

“Chick-fil-a has better food and better service.” Nick Veinger, sophomore

Photos and infographic by Kelly Peretz

feature

Dec. 7, 2012

Predator

How to survive Black Friday shopping AMANDA KIDD STAFF WRITER

Pushing. Shoving. Yelling…it’s Black Friday. One of the most popular days for shopping in America. The one day when the dream you have about outrageous sales comes true. Black Friday is most famously known for the outrageous deals that stores offer. It is the one day where merchandise is drastically marked down in order for stores to try to sweep their counters clean in order to prepare for new products. However, if shoppers have any interest in “shopping till they drop” on Black Friday, there is key information that should be taken into account in order to survive the craziness of this all-American shopping day. In order to make sure shoppers get everything they want, they need to do some research. “The most important thing is to do your homework. Go look to see what sales are going on,” Deborah Coleman, JCPenny’s accountant, said. While researching, shoppers should try looking at not only stores online, but catalogs, magazines and flyers. The more information found on sale items and their location the higher chance shoppers have of getting items they actually want and need.

ILLUSTRATION BY • YVONNE BERTOVICH “You need to know what you are going in to stores for,” Christina Malcolm, senior, said. “If you don’t know what you specifically want, you are going to end up leaving the stores with either nothing, or a bunch of stuff that you didn’t actually need.” If shoppers want to have any chance of getting some, if any, of the items they want, they need to do everything possible to beat the crowds.

“I wake up around 4 am, and wait in lines at the doors of stores to make sure I get what I want,” Kelly Rogowski, senior, said. If shoppers want to even be able to shop on Black Friday, they need to make sure they do well in crowds. “In the store, it is extremely crowded. There are people everywhere,” Coleman said, “it’s overwhelming.”

Not only is preparing by researching important, but making a list of desired items is a smart idea. That way, when the doors open, shoppers can immediately pounce on the items that they have been waiting for. Another thing shoppers should keep in mind is the strategy that they have when in the stores. They need to keep in mind that there will most likely be thousands of people going after the same item. “Don’t be afraid to get aggressive,” Rogowski said. Getting the item they want is their goal, so shoppers shouldn’t be afraid to throw a couple of shoves here and there. Black Friday is a day full of extreme shopping, so shoppers need to make sure they keep their energy levels up throughout the day and make sure to be comfortable. “Make sure to make several visits to Starbucks and take a nap in the middle of the day, and wear sneakers and comfy clothes,” Malcolm said. Although shopping on Black Friday can be exhausting and takes a ton of preparation, it can be extremely rewarding. Shoppers will be able to buy items for a price that they can’t get any other day of the year and will experience sales like never before. “Black Friday is a day that can’t be missed,” Malcolm said.

Cell phones take over; manners fading away BY PAIGE RODERICK

STAFF WRITER

PHOTO BY • MARINA JANKOVIC phones cause teens to be impolite- Frankie Cassisa, sophmore watches as Rebecca Ross, Sophmore checks her phone. Many people now are using there phones at inappropriate times like while talking to their friends.

“Did you hear what I just said?” Your friend looks up from the device in her hands; eyes wide like a deer in headlights. Busted. She wasn’t paying attention to what you were saying, but to what is displayed and glowing on her tiny cell phone screen. “I get really annoyed when someone is texting while I’m trying to talk to them. I feel like I don’t have their full attention, which can be hard to hold as it is, and that my words aren’t important enough to them,” Laura Arose, junior, said. In 2012, almost everyone has a cell phone or some kind of electronic device that steals away his or her attention. Apps such as Facebook, Tumblr and Instagram can send us notifications with an alarming beep or ding. “I hate how iPhones make noises when you get a notification from an app like Facebook,” Francie Roderick, assistant teacher of technology of Wharton High School, said. “I personally don’t have one, but I have to deal with it all the time from my husband. Not to mention, the annoying keyboard…click, click, click.” Remember the days when you had to excuse yourself and take a call outside if

you were in a public place? Now, people yack on their phones in restaurants, letting everyone in the establishment be the C, of what should be an A, B conversation. “I’ll only take a call in places like that if it’s my mom or my boyfriend. But this one time, I was talking really loud, and I didn’t realize I was talking that loud, so people started staring at me…it was really awkward,” Sharda Nelson, junior, said. You’re at the dinner table when you realize that your conversation with your best friend just can’t wait 30 minutes or so. So what do you do? You do the ol’ sneaky “text-under-the-table”…it’s the oldest trick in the book. “I don’t text at dinner, because it’s rude and it’s the time to bond with family and talk about your day,” Arose said. Even though some choose to bend the rules of cellular etiquette, what should be some definite no-no’s? “Don’t text while driving, don’t text while having a face-to-face conversation with someone, unless it’s an emergency, and don’t text in all caps unless you are intending to be ‘yelling’,” Jennifer Bell, English teacher, said. So, when it comes to using your cell, thinking about those around you might be a good idea.

The Cell Phone Code: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Don’t look things up when you’re on the phone with someone.

Acknowledge the delay between speaking and talking.

Don’t take a call if you’re already having a face-to-face conversation.

Don’t text if you’re already having a face-to-face conversation. Put your phone on silent mode when you’re in a movie or restaurant.

6. 7. 8. 9. 10.

Don’t light up your phone in a movie theater. Don’t use your phone when driving. Lower your voice when taking calls in public. Don’t blame the other peson for a dropped call. Avoid talking about personal topics when around people.

Source: huffingtonpost.com

Infographic by Madison Giarrizzo and Cathy Pahl

(10 Guidelines to follow for good cell phone etiquette)

HEALTH

Predator

Dec. 7, 2012

Students develop potty-phobia BY Ashley Benjamin

CentersprEad editor

You’re writhing in your seat during the middle of your most important class and your teacher is going over the review to the biggest test of the school year. You can’t handle the pressure and you ask the teacher to go to the bathroom. He lets you go and you sprint for your life to the nearest bathroom. The first thing you notice is the smell as you walk in and it makes you feel incredibly nauseous, but that bladder is about to blow. Every single stall is disgusting and filled with used toilet paper, un-flushed toilets and toilet water splattered all over the place. Who knows what’s on those toilet seats? You’re faced with a crucial problem: to pee or not to pee; that is the question. A 2008 study conducted by CNN revealed that many public bathroom toilet seats may contain harmful bacteria including E. coli, salmonella, cold virus and a deadly form of staph known as MRSA. “I never really thought about toilet seats being so disgusting. But now that I think about it, it’s

quite repelling,” Kenya Wright, junior, said. With the germs that could be on toilet seats, the only option for some people could be to just hold it in and wait until they get home. “It is possible that there can be a contagious skin disease that can be contracted. But you can use toilet paper or linens, especially in public bathrooms,” Jennifer Juanco-Miranda, RN., said. However, holding it in may not be the brightest idea in the box. Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs) can be developed in the body’s digestive system easily when bodily excretions are repeatedly held in too long. “Holding urine is not advisable, the urine stasis in the bladder can cause the infection,” Miranda said. UTIs can occur in men and women and can increase the chances of kidney infections which can lead to even greater complications. “UTI symptoms are not avoidable. Symptoms can include a burning sensation and pain while urinating, foul odors and discharges,” Miranda said. There are a few simple ways to avoid getting any germs while using the restroom in a public setting. Step 1: Wipe off the seat, even if you don’t see anything on it. An

health editor

Avoid looking like a sandpaper-vampire

Illustration by • carin Coursey extra step won’t hurt. Step 2: If available, place a handy toilet seat cover on the seat. If one isn’t available, just use toilet paper to cover the seat. Step 3: When you’re finished, wash your hands and turn off the faucet with a paper towel. Step 4: When leaving the bathroom, open the door with your back or foot. If there is a handle

BY Marielle Gomez

Health editor

Photo ILLUSTRATION by • MAriah Henderson Healthy eating - Instead of turning towards harmful eating habits, some people choose healthy foods to reach their ideal weight and body image. Binge eating disorder is when someone goes through periods of time where he or she eats a lot then doesn’t eat at all. EDNOS is any other eating disorder that isn’t classified as anorexia, bulimia, or binge eating disorder. Based on a study by NEDA (National Eating Disorders Association) in 2010, it is estimated that nearly 500,000 teenagers are bat-

Heart beat

BY MARIELLE GOMEZ

grab another paper towel and open the door with it. “Remember, urine is a waste that the body needs to get rid of. So you need to void as soon as you feel the urge,” Miranda said. So when you’re face to face with the essential question standing inside a rancid bathroom stall, remember: DO pee. That is the answer.

Diets turn into something dangerous “I’m going on a diet.” At first it starts with cutting out sweets. Then, it’s junk food. It’s not enough. You still see that bulging stomach and “thunder thighs.” Now you cut out carbs, dairy, protein, fruits and vegetables… Everything gets cut out until there’s nothing left. Nothing left on your plate, nothing left on your body. “At my worst I weighed 70 pounds,” Hannah Thornton, junior, said. Now that simple, innocent diet has morphed into something incredibly dangerous: an eating disorder. Eating disorders fall under four categories: anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, binge eating disorder, and EDNOS (eating disorder not otherwise specified). Anorexia nervosa is when you completely stop eating and obsess over body image. When a person suffers from bulimia nervosa, he or she will tend to over-eat at meals and then force him or herself to throw up right after.

tling an eating disorder. “I really wanted to be what people expected of me and I worked myself sick. I would be so stressed or worried about being good enough that I couldn’t eat,” Thornton said. Factors that contribute to sinking into these disorders include: pressures to look a certain way, low self-esteem, a mental health disorder like depression or anxi-

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ety and bullying. “I just got really depressed and insecure and felt like nobody liked me because of my weight (not even my parents) and that they wouldn’t start caring until I was skinnier or if they noticed I wasn’t eating,” Aaliyah Haynes, junior, said. “I felt really insecure about myself so it mostly about being skinnier. I really wanted to be ‘perfect.’ I didn’t want people to judge me because they thought I was fat,” Thornton said. No matter how bad the disorder gets, there’s always hope of coming out of it a stronger person than before. “Tell someone. Share your struggle with someone. Find support from a person or persons. Try to deal with the issue behind the eating disorder,” said Lourdes Pereda, RN, BSN (school nurse). “I’m not proud of it. I know that but i know it was essential to making me the person I am now. I like who I’ve become,” Thornton said. “I’m not ashamed of my past,” Haynes said. “Maybe not proud of it but definitely content with how far I’ve come.” “The most important thing,” Pereda said, “is for them to find balance in their life.”

The time of year has finally arrived where it doesn’t feel like summer and it’s possible to stand outside without sweating buckets. It’s also the time of year when our lips crack to the point that we look like recently fed vampires and our skin seems to slowly turn into sandpaper. Although chapped lips and dry skin seem like an inevitable side effect to the cold weather, there are ways to maintain our lips and skin silky smooth. The first thing we need to know before treating dry skin is what causes the skin to dry. What many of us don’t realize is that some habits we have cause skin to dry. When we frequently wash our hands or put on hand sanitizer, we’re pretty much holding up a big flashing sign telling the cold, “Please make my skin dry and rough.” A simple solution for smooth skin is limiting the amount of times we sanitize our hands. However, hygiene is important and hands should be cleaned when absolutely necessary like before eating or after going to the bathroom. Afterwards, make sure to moisturize with lotion. Many of us may not be aware that warm air also dries out the skin. After being pounded by the cold, there’s nothing more inviting than the car or home heater. As good as it may feel, this dry, warm air can really dry our skin. Instead of putting the heater on full force, make it a lukewarm temperature. An easy way to prevent our skin and lips from cracking is to moisturize, moisturize, moisturize. Frequently putting on lotion and chap stick can drastically improve our skin. A good time to put on lotion is right after coming out of the shower. If the skin is still dry even after getting into the habit of moisturizing, revise the choice of lotion. Oil-based, instead of water-based, lotions are best for the colder months.

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10Nov. 28, 2012

Nov. 28, 2012

Teen describes struggle with self harm

THE FIGHT TO SEAL BROKEN WINGS

By MARLENE MIRANDA C0-editor IN CHIEF

like what I was feeling wasn’t real or taken seriously. I felt inhuman almost because my “fake problems” were being swept under the rug.” Leia confessed her feelings to her mother. However, they were once again dismissed. “Again, I was told that it was a stage and I’d be fine. I still don’t feel fine. I still feel like it’s something. I started losing control of my emotions and I couldn’t pinpoint it. I knew there was something wrong.” Around May of that year, Leia sunk even deeper into her depression. She constantly thought of ways that she could commit

[Editor’s Note: The name in this story has been changed to protect the person’s identity.] On the first week of school, Leia came into class wearing shorts. Whispers dispersed between classmates, eyes took short and worrisome glances, some couldn’t help but stare as she took her seat. “I have tons of cuts on my legs, it doesn’t stop me from wearing shorts. People will ask me about them, but I’m not ashamed anymore to tell them why.” “I grew up in New York and it was pretty rough. I lived with my mom my whole life, but when I was 7 or 8, we moved in with my dad into this apartment in the Bronx. It was really peaceful in the beginning, it was quiet. But towards the end… it just felt like everyone got tired of each other. Three months after my mom and I moved in, we ended up leaving again.” After an altercation WOMEN between her parents, ENGAGE IN Leia and her mother moved out SELF HARM immediately. “We moved out because my dad Many of those who went crazy one day. self injure report He quit his job, he learning how to do screamed at my mom for every little thing. so from friends or pro She would forget to self injury websites put a coaster on the table and he would just scream at her. He would throw things.” In her childhood, Leia suffered from bullying and verbal abuse over her appearance. suicide. She even wrote a suicide “I think 7th grade is the time when letter to her mother. I really started feeling worthless. I Her mother found the letter and just started being depressed for no brought it to her pediatrician, but reason. I felt alone all the time. And even that didn’t seem to be taken I told my doctor how I was feeling. seriously. She just dismissed my feelings, “She thought I was lying about denied what I said. ‘Sweetheart, everything. ‘Sweetheart, why are it’s just growing pains, it’s just a you doing this? People have it so stage.’” much worse than you. You have it Nothing was done. Leia’s so good. There are people living in doctor didn’t take the confession poverty. Why are you depressed? seriously. No phone calls were How could you possibly be made. No help was given. depressed? You’re so young.’ It’s “I felt rejected because it was

obviously not a stage. I feel the same as I did, if not worse, than I did four years ago. And I still get told the same thing. That it’s a stage.” Afterwards, Leia began to leave small cuts on her arm. Later on, she moved to cutting all over her body. On warm days, she would wear heavy jeans and baggy sweaters to conceal her scars. “I felt a little bit better after it. All the pent up negative energy I had was suddenly relieved. It was like putting my pain into something else.” After her freshman year of high school, Leia’s mother decided to relocate to Florida for her

communication between us.” As the years passed, Leia’s relationship with her mother worsened. They began fighting daily, sometimes even getting in physical fights. “One day, I got her really mad. Really mad. And she just said flat out, ‘I wish I would’ve had an abortion. You’re worthless to me.’ “ Leia’s father was sterile when her parents got married, the thought of a child was far from their minds. In addition, her mother was also 39 when she was pregnant, and risked pregnancy complications. The doctors warned that the baby [Leia] could’ve been born with Down Syndrome. Her parents decided to have her despite this. “I didn’t know how to react. I felt horrible. I felt unwanted. I felt like she just doesn’t love me. And I still feel that way about myself. If my mother feels that way towards me, how MEN ENGAGE should I feel about IN SELF HARM myself? And when you hear things like that every single day, you start to believe them.” Leia still battles depression daily. Through her personal blog, she gets to communicate with others who are experiencing difficult situations and offer advice to those who cut. “I talk to people online who are going through the same thing I do, of self injurers that harm themselves began at the age in the way that I do. It 14 makes me feel like I’m not alone. And I feel a little bit of closure from that.” In the future, Leia Information from healthyplace.com wants to become a nurse. She says that she sees herself with a retirement. partner, adopting kids in need of “My mom wanted to go a loving home. somewhere more laid back after “I’m not going to sugarcoat it and she retired. But it’s almost like tell you that it gets better, or that she has so much more to focus there’s always tomorrow, or hang on because she has so many more in there. That never helps anyone. friends here. It sounds selfish, but But I can say, I know what you’re before we moved, it’s as if she going through, it’s hard. If you’re had more time to spend with me. strong enough to actually go I’m left at home to do everything through something difficult and by myself. I don’t see her after still be alive and deal with it head school. She doesn’t come home on, then you’re strong enough to until later, and when she does, live another day and give yourself she doesn’t talk to me. There’s no another chance.”

self Harm Statistics

ONE

IN FIVE

Butterfly Project aims to help seal wounds By ALLIE BOUCHER COPY EDITOR They float through this world invisible to most; but that’s how they like it. They are fragile. One unexpected action and they will shatter; broken, unable to fix themselves, unable to soar. They are butterflies. The Butterfly Project, a sevenstep process to help rid addiction to self-harm, starts with a first simple rule of drawing a butterfly. The Project’s aim is to be a positive outlet of depression instead of self-injury. “It’s to help people who are depressed have something that reminds them of happy times and not sad ones,” Xana Smith, junior, said. According to two blogs on tumblr.com dedicated to the Project, the rules are the following: Rule 1- When you feel like you want to cut, take a marker or pen and draw a butterfly on wherever the self-harm occurs. To Write Love On Your Arms’ website says that basically the same amount of males and females suffer from an addiction to selfharm. These males and females

people who love you,” Nadia Warden, junior, said. Rule 3– NO scrubbing the butterfly off. If you wash the butterfly off, it defeats the purpose. It is basically the same thing as “killing” your butterfly, which is definitely not the coveted outcome of the Project. Rule 4months,” If you cut S m i t h before the said. “When the person looks butterfly Rule 2at it they feel that someone is gone, it Name the is there for them and that dies. If you butterfly don't cut, it after a loved they’re not alone in life.” lives. one, or “Well, first of someone XANA SMITH all,” Warden who really JUNIOR said, “you wants you name the to get better. butterfly. It’s Naming yours. Why would is a process that you want to kill it? If I killed mine, brings the idea to life. The I would feel like I killed someone more special the namesake after I made a promise not to.” is, the more motivated the Rule 5- If you have more than person should be. Without this one, cutting kills them all. essential rule, the Project may More than one butterfly could not be as successful. mean additional inspiration to “You’re reminded of the make up about 4 percent of the population. “I have a friend who used to cut and I told her about the Butterfly Project, and she said she would try it. I helped her with it a lot. She felt so much better doing it and she hasn’t cut for eight

get better, which is good; but it could also make things all the more difficult if the keeper of those butterflies can’t “save” them. It adds more pressure, but if those butterflies “live,” it could intensify the growth of getting better. Rule 6- Another person may draw them on you. These butterflies are extra special. Take good care of them. “I think it’s special,” Smith said, “because when the person looks at it they feel that someone is there for them and that they’re not alone in life.” Rule 7- Even if you don’t cut, feel free to draw a butterfly anyway, to show your support. If you do this, name it after someone you know who is suffering right now, and tell them. It could help. For some people, but not all, it’s hard to think of peers doing something alien like hurting their own body. A simple gesture, drawing a butterfly, could possibly save someone’s life; and what is more precious than a human life? So be strong, butterflies. Let that addiction and pain fly away, and remember you are not alone.

ONE

IN SEVEN

50%

SUICIDE HOTLINE: THERE IS HOPE By calling 1-800-273-TALK (8255) you’ll be connected to a skilled, trained counselor at a crisis center in your area, anytime 24/7.

Design by Ashley Benjamin Background photo by Scott Sollazzo

feature

Dec. 7, 2012

PREDATOR

Predator

Why are we feeling so blue?

Administration changes gown traditions entered Wharton with hopes of graduating with honors. Graduating in white. This obviously rowning achievements entails the completion of more do not arise without rigorous courses and the determipain, without effort or nation to go above and beyond, without conflict. Reach- rather than being satisfactory or ing milestones comes with inevi- to simply do well, which would table struggle. Seen in moments earn a diploma nonetheless, but such as a tottering baby falling while wearing a blue robe. It was argued that Wharton’s while learning to walk, a toddler prior graduation ceremonies with on her first day of school, a child coping with an injury or illness, both white robes for honors stua student finally having straight dents and blue robes for regular ‘A’s even with that difficult class, graduates caused a lack in unity, a teenager practicing his driving and even the stratification of or getting a job, or a young adult classes or groups. With a seemingly defining finally making it to her senior year factor of such a monumental of high school. One milestone, however, con- achievement at stake, it was clear to administration that there was cludes youth not a solution that would please and sureveryone. Many resolutions passes all were discussed during the others in level decision-making process of difficulty, that occurred earlier this notability and year as proposed by stureward: gradudents, teachers and paration. ents. The In no way The ultimate decision, is Wharton optimal however, remains that High School’s all students will gradusolution 2013 graduaate in blue regardless of tion any differis neither GPA. Instead, students ent regarding with special distinction blue nor worth or imsuch as exceptional portance. The white. grades or the involvecircumstances, ment in various clubs however, certainand organizations will ly have changed be adorned with sashes, in quite an explicit cords and pins. manner due to exGraduation is an ocplicit quandaries currence of such magniexpressed by extude that it is expected for plicit individuals. strong emotions to maniAlthough, the defest, which furthers the cision was made in strain of reaching a comsomewhat of a gray munally acceptable solution. area and it seems as It would be nearly imposthough members of the sible to completely please either community have opinions that the hopeful white-robe honorgrads or those who expressed are all across the board. graduation’s need for unity and Many of this year’s seniors equality.

EDITORIAL

BRANDONGOLDMAN MARLENEMIRANDA Editors-in-chief YVONNEBERTOVICH Managing editor/ Editorial editor KELLYPERETZ Feature editor HALEYGONZALEZ Webmaster/News editor ASHLEYBENJAMIN Centerspread editor WILLBARNES Entertainment editor NICKROGERS NIKKIMORSE co-sports editors ALYDAMMINGER Music editor OLIVIAMAHANOR College editor MANALBENYAMINE Club editor JOSHACIERNO Automotive editor MARIELLEGOMEZ Health editor CARINCOURSEY Illustrator GEOFFREYSTEINER Finance manager ALLIEBOUCHER Copy editor Staff writers JESSIESAVEDGE JOSEPHPAREDES MADISONGIARRIZZO CJPOTTER AMANDAKIDD CATHYPAHL PAIGERODERICK MARINAJANKOVIC Photographers MARIAHHENDERSON SCOTTSOLLAZZO ALEXMONTGOMERY GIGIJACKSON Adviser TERRYSOLLAZZO Phone Number (813) 631-4710 ext. 237 Check out our website! whspredator.wordpress.com Follow us on Twitter! @WHSPredator

Graduation Blues What is your opinion on the graduation gown color change?

ILLUSTRATION BY • CARIN COURSEY The optimal solution is neither blue nor white. Many students currently in the community will continue to yearn for the prowess long associated with white robes. Many students will be relieved to know that they will be graduating as a more unified student body in blue robes. Perhaps, the solution is hidden within the solution. Perhaps sashes, cords and pins will become synonymous in grandeur as

that of the white robes. Perhaps, graduation at Wharton High School has not changed at all. Merely the tangible forms of honor have transformed, but the importance is still all there. At the 2013 graduation ceremony, a milestone achievement will be earned for us all. We have learned over the years and will transcend our youth, and now, we will transcend together, in blue.

“Being notified just months before graduation that we are graduating in blue as opposed to white is inconsiderate.”

“I’m not really bothered by the robes being changed color but it is not fair to the seniors that will graduate this year.”

Kathryn Kastner

A.J. Speranza

senior

junior

Predator staff publishes 2012-13 editorial, advertising policies

he newspaper informs students about events, influences readers through responsible editorials, entertains through features, and brings buyers and seller closer together. As an established open forum for the student body, truth will be the staff’s major goal. These goals are achieved re-

sponsible reporting. Editorials reflect views of the staffa nd do not respresent views of the school board, administrators, faculty or the student body of Wharton High School. All by-lined articles and artwork reflect the opinions of the writers and artists. Predator encourages letters which constitute a constructive

avenue for all opinions. These letters must be signed. The staff reserves the righ to edit letters for poor taste, space, livel, and grammar. These changes will not effect the content or meaning behind story. Ad rates are available by calling (813) 631-4710 ext. 264. Advertising which promotes illegal products as labeled by Flor-

ida law, opposes any religion, is written in bad taste, includes racial comments, or which includes false statements not be accepted. The Editorial Board has the righ tot refuse any such ad. Predator is a member o the Florida Scholastic PRess Association and the National Scholastic Press Association.

opinion

Predator

Dec. 7, 2012

Exotic species seen lurking by vending machines BY YVONNE BERTOVICH managing editor & Editorial Editor With instincts, an animal can sense peril or danger. Warning signs on the Serengeti or in the misty labyrinths of the Amazon Rainforest: the nearby crunch of the undergrowth in utter silence, the battle cries of exotic species or predators, the presumptive serenity of the watering hole, or a frantic stampede.

Such a landscape, however, does not only exist in the rarity of Africa or Brazil. This alleged wilderness is in our own backyard. Welcome to Wharton High School: Home of the Wildcats. Perhaps never portrayed better than in the scenes of the popular film, ‘Mean Girls,’ is the blatant parallel and shared characteristics between high school and the jungle. Our typically untamed day first involves the pre-dawn at-

tempt of dominating the rushing rapids of Bruce B. Downs, an impressive feat in itself. After we corral into each class, and the usually civil 50-minute period has ended, comes passing time. Everyone explosively exits into the halls and corridors, trampling, elbowing, spitting, kicking, clawing, shoving, doing whatever necessary to survive the legitimate stampede. At lunch, cliques mark their territory and reserve seating for

ILLUSTRATION BY • YVONNE BERTOVICH

members of their clan, pack, or herd only; usually controlled by a dominant male or female. To reduce the roaming of students outside protected areas during lunchtime, large gates are closed and guards are on standby with disciplinary provisions for the unruly. The best chance to observe the more exotic, boisterous species at Wharton is to stalk them around the watering hole: ergo, the vending machines. Drooling, they hungrily hunt wild Poptarts, Skittles, and flaming hot Cheetos. Angrily, they defend their kill while the herbivores drink from the water fountain. Regarding the “food chain” at Wharton, it is easily conceived that with their naive, skittish nature, freshmen are at the bottom. In the wild, they would exist as species of small grazers such as antelope or gazelles. Eager to assert their dominance after completing a mere year of high school, sophomores could most likely be categorized as hyenas; stealing scraps from the upperclassmen that they so desperately want to be, yet ridiculing the freshmen. Juniors and seniors most likely fit in the wild as big jungle cats or large herd animals, such as elephants, rhinos or hippos. They wisely migrate or lazily lumber through the halls but can prove deadly in confrontation or if challenged.

It is commonplace while attending our high school that one may experience other species attempting to stalk, prey upon, or ridicule them several times a day. The caws, shrieks, bellows, growls, hoots and hollers of various species communicating are heard daily. How ironically fitting, too, that this year’s homecoming theme was “Welcome to the Jungle.” Although at times the environment at Wharton can be filled with deafening roars of students asserting their dominance, nauseating odors exacerbating by the beating of the hot sun, or the ferment of migration; in the end, it is all worthwhile. For the untamed days spent in high school are clearly some of the most fruitful, hectic and memorable experiences of our lives, and Wharton High School does not disappoint. Whether one considers oneself at the top of the food chain or the bottom, or whether one is currently struggling or persevering, Wharton offers a distinct landscape for all students to grow, blossom and flourish. Doing so now, we can become the future conquerors of urban wilderness. Survivors in the real world. Dreamers, innovators and leaders; regardless what species our character currently portrays or our instincts suggest. For in the wild and in reality, there is always room to grow.

co-editor-in-chief When one lives in a country where Honey Boo Boo is a television idol, Big Bird stirs up more political debate than the candidates themselves, and the Republicans in Congress want to reduce college monetary grants, is it really surprising that Americans don't have a care in the world for education? It’s not mind-boggling to hear Americans called “stupid.” Let’s face it: there are probable reasons for saying so. It’s nothing new, either. We, as globally remarkable as it may be, have little to flaunt when it comes to an education system. America may have taken home the most medals of any country in the last Olympics, but statistics show that America is ranked seventh in high school graduation rates, 31st in global mathematics and 23rd in global sciences. Why? There is no doubt that one of the leading factors is the domination of social experience in school environments, whereas many countries, such as Japan, Germany and China, spend much of their focus on academics. That’s not to say being social is a bad thing, but when students are more worried about the shoes they are wearing to homecoming rather than their big history final, it’s a no-brainer that our education levels will depreciate. America’s approach to education is like a meat grinder with a goal of educating its youth for college or a vocation. However, that promise of a

THE OLYMPICS EDUCATION STYLE

GLOBAL MATHEMATICS RANKING

HOURS PER YEAR REQUIRED IN CLASS

1089 997

875 784 741

POPULATION WITH POST-SECONDARY EDUCATION THE UNITED STATES IS AT THE TOP OF THE PODIUM WHEN IT COMES TO WINNING OLYMPIC GOLD, BUT EDUCATION, THAT’S A DIFFERENT STORY. HERE’S A COMPARISON OF THE UNITED STATES WITH SWEEDEN, ITALY, CHINA AND JAPAN.

WINNERS

44% 41% 33% 15% 5% AVERAGE CLASS SIZE

good job and well-paying career isn’t easily fulfilled. America’s educational system is like a roller coaster climbing a giant hill and then, suddenly, dropping riders into a free fall, only this time, the roller coaster is the teacher and the drop off is high school graduation. Higher level courses and electives are designed to allow students to drift away from the academic norm, but what really sets a student apart from the rest? His GPA? No, that doesn’t define a student; that’s just a number. His graduation gown color? Heck, not

GLOBAL SCIENCE RANKING

even that is an option anymore. One may ask what other countries do to better prepare their students for the future. Some countries hold school all year long so that students don’t forget information in between years. A number of these other countries also emphasize academics such as STEM (Science, Technology, Education and Math) leaving social skills to be learned at home. The solution for America’s educational system is simple: provide alternative education paths for different types of students.

Instead of grouping students based on age like the standard form of educational benchmarking, place kids in courses based on talent and interests. Sure, students have the ability to choose electives in high school, but why stop there? Isn’t it just as important to let a middle schooler be in a class that interests him or her, rather than tagging the student along into standard classes where the student becomes bored and ultimately an issue for the teacher? Instead of requiring students to stay through 13 levels of school,

By BRANDON GOLDMAN

information from cerrificationmap.com

America falls behind in global education race

allow some to graduate early after acquiring enough credits in certain, specific topics, much like universities. That way, students who are ahead of the common curve can excel in what interests them, rather than being stuck behind due to their age. America is a great country and there is no doubt that our global presence far exceeds other countries, but when it boils down to our education system – the backbone of our future – don’t forget that we are far behind many other nations.

ENTERTAINMENT

Dec. 7, 2012

Predator

‘Wreck-It Ralph’: Disney’s smash hit

BY WILL BARNES

ENTERTAINMENT EDITOR

Disney has smashed through the age barrier with its latest animated movie WreckIt Ralph. If the movie is to be described in one word, the best choice would be “authentic.” The film follows the quest of its titular character’s journey of self-discovery. Ralph is a villain in the popular arcade game “Fix-It Felix Jr.,” but after being shunned by the other occupants of his game for 30 years, he wants to finally prove that a bad guy can have a good heart. He starts “game jumping” through various arcade games to earn a medal to prove he is a hero. It isn’t often that Disney releases computer-generated films without the help of Pixar, but even without the help of the legendary studio, Disney lands a soon- to be -classic that is not only emotionally appealing but visually appealing as well. Not only is it a master of polished looking games, but there are multiple scenes where you can see games like “Fix-It Felix Jr.” and “Tapper” in their true 8-bit forms, adding to the authenticity of the film. The movie would be nothing, however, without its cast of characters. John C. Reilly is a smash hit as the voice of Ralph. It’s hard enough to portray a flawed character like Ralph in a live action movie, but when an actor has to perform using only his voice, his job is much harder. Luckily, Reilly is talented enough to go above and

Photo by • Disney/MCT Good guys, bad guys, and everything else in between - Ralph, voiced by John C. Reilly, goes to the video game world of Hero’s Duty to earn a medal. beyond expectations. Sarah Silverman is also noteworthy as the voice of the sassy but sweet “Sugar Rush” racer Venelope. In addition to the main characters, the aforementioned cameos add to the authentic feel of the movie. Throughout the film you can see landmark video game characters like Pac-Man, Inky, Blinky and Pinky from Pac-Man, Blanka and Chun-Li from Street Fighter, and Sonic the Hedgehog from the series of the same name. There is also a humorous scene in which Ralph goes to a support group for villains where you can see

famous antagonists like Dr. Eggman from Sonic the Hedgehog and Bowser from Super Mario Bros. Not only are there “Easter eggs” that reference characters, but to consoles, such as a vault that is in the style of a Nintendo Entertainment System that can only be opened by entering the infamous “Konami Code.” Ultimately, the trait that makes this movie excellent is that it’s appealing for all ages. Younger children will enjoy a movie with enough action and comedy to keep their attention, whereas their parents and/or older

siblings will catch the various references made to the video games that they themselves grew up with. Combine this with complex characters and a heartwarming plot, and you have the code to one of the best movies of the season, if not the entire year. Whether you are looking for a film the entire family can enjoy or an entertaining comedy with exciting action scenes that will continually provide blasts of nostalgia, ‘Wreck-It Ralph’ is a smash hit made for everyone.

All hail the chief: Halo 4 restores franchise BY Josh acierno AUTOMOTIVE EDITOR

A super soldier who can and will mow down any enemy who stands in his path battles his way through a new planet with new encounters in the attempt to save his AI (Artificially Intelligent) companion named Cortana. She and Master Chief (John-117, the super soldier) have accompanied each other through the three previous Halo games and now the fourth, Halo 4. Previously thought to be dead, Master Chief awakens on the abandoned UNSC (United National Space Comand) ship to a rude awakening, Forward Unto Dawn. Minutes into his exploration of the ship he encounters the usual alien enemy: the covenant. There’s nothing new to these creatures except for a bit of a look makeover. Aside from that, they’re just the same old elites, grunts and jackals that continue to be a pest throughout the game. But if you didn’t like them and thought that they were a difficult task to defeat, you’re in for a rude awakening a few levels into the campaign where you meet an entirely new enemy. Upon crashing into a new planet, Re-

wreck IT! BY WILL BARNES

ENTERTAINMENT EDITOR

They’re the best of the worst, the vilest villains. In childhood games, these guys (and sometimes their henchmen), were always there to hinder your progress, to stop you with their near limitless resources or power. Heroes are always praised, but this time, the antagonists

quiem, a new and more advanced hostility awaits: the Prometheans. These creatures’ weapons will disintegrate victims as they were designed to rid of the Flood; an alien race excluded from this game which in order to kill, the body needs to be completely eradicated. The Prometheans have three types of soldiers. There’s the Knight, a large humanlike creature with the ability to transport from one spot to another in order to either escape Chief’s hail of bullets, or to suddenly charge-attack the soldier. There’s also the Watcher who has the ability to revive a dead Knight, the ability to shield its allies and the ability to shoot the gamer. The last is the Crawler, a four-legged dog- like creature wielding an automatic weapon. Shoot them in the yellow of the eyes and they’ll blow up in a few shots. It takes much longer to shoot them aiming anywhere but the head. But Halo 4 didn’t just introduce a new race of aliens. It introduced a new way to play the game including the ability to sprint. Along with this new capability comes a few drawbacks, including a new button locations for controls like melee and crouching,.This is pretty inconvenient con-

Dr. Eggman This evil genius has been the speed-bump to Sonic’s speed since 1991. With a 300 point IQ and a seemingly endless army of mechanical cronies, Eggman has achieved multiple feats not only in technology, but in general villainy. Along with an army of brightly- colored bots, he also pilots multiple robotic crafts and owns an entire fleet of flying ships. Although the bright blue hedgehog is his arch nemesis, he secretly admires Sonic’s determination, skill and the rivalry they have established.

sidering the fact that anyone who grew up off from Call of Duty’s “Elite,” a way to check your scores, playing the previous medals, achieveHalo games is used to ments and kills that the old controls. you’ve achieved Aside from these during online play. minor drawbacks, The game is rethe new game offers ally just a collage higher quality graphof Halo and Call of ics with a more fluDuty put together. ent movement in both Though it is a good campaign and online game with a good game modes. Online campaign and great gameplay includes a online play, it’s disfew new game types appointing that 343 and features like studios needed to Flood. It’s an online rip so many feagame mode where tures from Call of someone starts out as Duty and try to a Flood alien and his make them their or her objective is to own. The game had eliminate other players high expectations turning them into the same creature. In turn, Combat evolved - Halo 4 begins the next series. and it definitely met them. Lots of the spartans defend adventure, explothemselves from a fast moving, high jumping, lunging, attacker sions and slaughter along with the high with nothing but some shotgun shells and quality graphics and in-game movement it contains, this game is an excellent continua pistol. Halo 4 also offers Halo Waypoint. A rip ence to the epic Halo series.

Giovanni Giovanni is a child’s version of “The Godfather” only with a bigger criminal empire and animal-like monsters that can shoot lightning. Leader of Team Rocket (and also the Viridian City Gym Leader), this boss has made a living off of stealing Pokémon from people of all ages and causing general acts of terrorism. Along with wealth, he also has a plethora of Team Rocket Grunts. Too bad he can’t buy them any strong Pokémon.

chaos This ancient monster appears to be made out of water sounds. Simple enough to beat, right? Not when he grows stronger with each Chaos Emerald he collects. His lists of accomplishments include besting Sonic and his friends and flooding an entire city.

ENTERTAINMENT

Predator

Dec. 7, 2012

Country makes the world go round BY JESSIE SAVEDGE STAFF WRITER

Photo by • (stephen m. dowell/orlando sentinel/mct campus) Catch this craze - Brad Paisley performs for a crowd during one of his shows this fall. Paisley recently opened the 2012 CMAs with Carrie Underwood.

With so many genres of music to pick from, one has started to stick out a little more recently. “Country music is better than the pop music of today,” Ryan Wolf, senior, said. “The songs are very positive and uplifting.” Students at Wharton like the fact that this music is so relatable. “Many country songs tell a story,” Tori DeFranco, senior, said, “and a lot of them give life lessons.” “It’s not just a bunch of sounds mashed together,” Wolf said. “Country music is calm and relaxing... More so than music produced nowadays.” Some students were never exposed to country until they entered Wharton. “I started listening to country music freshman year,” DeFranco said. “My best friend at the time liked it and had me listen to it. My parents hated it so I was never around it.” However, once they started lis-

tening, students couldn’t stop. “I listen to country music at the gym, in the car, even at work,” Wolf said. “From time to time I even jam out to it with my friends.” Country artists popular today include Taylor Swift, Jason Aldean, Luke Bryan and Rascal Flatts. “I like Rascal Flatts because all their songs are catchy,” DeFranco said. “I recently went to their concert with my friends and it was amazing! This genre has exploded with popularity recently in and out of school. The CMA’s announced the new television show “Nashville” on Thursday night. This new show, at 10 pm on ABC held six million viewers during the premiere and the numbers have continued to rise. Little by little. country music is continuing to branch out, country music and make a name for itself in our society. “Country music makes me happy,” Wolf said. “If you don’t listen to country music you are missing out on one of God’s gifts to mankind.”

All Time Low: Keep Calm and ‘Don’t Panic’ BY aly damminger MUSIC EDITOR Don’t Panic. All Time Low has returned with a new album that is better than Dirty Work, so Put Up or Shut Up. It truly is the perfect album to be played at The Party Scene. It’s So Wrong It’s Right. But that’s just my opinion… Nothing Personal. Don’t Panic was set to be released on Oct 9... That was until the band personally leaked the album to all of their fans. More than a week before the album was released, lead singer and rhythm guitarist Alex Gaskarth tweeted, “The record doesn’t come out ‘til Tuesday of next week, so if you got yours, you’re lucky! You can stream the whole thing ’til it shows.” It didn’t take more than a few hours for teenagers to begin downloading the album via their computers. All in the same day, teens began tweeting their positive feedback to the band. Drummer Rian Dawson then tweeted, “Can’t begin to put into words how much it means to all of us that you guys love our new record. Thank you so damn much.” Prior to Don’t Panic, the band released three studio albums-- However, the album released before Don’t Panic, entitled Dirty Work, didn’t do so well. The band typically channels a pop-punk style, but many tracks on Dirty Work were strictly pop which caused many fans to claim that All Time Low began their reign as sell-outs. Nevertheless, the debut of Don’t Panic was much better than that of Dirty Work. Jack Barakat, lead guitarist, tweeted, “WOW. Don’t Panic is the number six album in the country and outsold our last album. All because of you guys. Thanks so much.”

SCALE OF ROCK

Photo by • aLY DAMMINGER AN ALL-TIME HIGH - All Time Low entertains a crowd at the Orlando House of Blues. They have been touring America since the release of their new album. Somehow, Gaskarth has always been able to write fairly deep lyrics and translate them into catchy tunes. This continued through Don’t Panic as proven in a track entitled, “Outlines.” “I’m twice the man that I thought I was yesterday.”/”Half the time, I’m a world away.”/”A flicker of a soul casting silhouettes”/”On the face of a town that could not get me to stay.”/”And when the spark’s gone, former lovers just looking for a bus to throw me under.” Two songs on the album channel the history of the band, but one more so than the other. In “The Reckless and the Brave,” Gaskarth sings, “Got a van, got a chance, got my dignity.”/”Got a dream, got a spark, got somewhere to be.”/”Take a breath, say goodbye to my precious little world.” This depicts the growth of the band. They signed onto their very first record label as freshmen

A N OT H E R ONE BITES THE DUST

IT’S A LONG WAY TO THE TOP

in high school and began touring the country in their parents’ vans. This song is declarative in the way that the lyrics are sung, almost in a protest against society. “So Long, Soldier,” on the other hand, is entirely about the band’s history. “Back in ’95”/”A little boy from just outside of London”/”Took a fated trip across the ocean”/”And little did he know”/”That he would find his voice in verse and chorus”/”Making wishes on his broken stereo.”/”…Late 2005”/”The boy’s got plans as crazy as his friends”/”They take their chances driving West

alone.”/”Give ‘em six more years, and see what time will do for hopeless dreamers”/”Singing wishes to their broken stereos.” These lyrics clearly provide the listener with Gaskarth’s journey of leaving his home as a child in Essex, England, and meeting his future-band mates and their journey to the top. This is not to say that all the songs on Don’t Panic take on a serious tone. “The Irony of Choking on a Lifesaver” is a very pop-sounding song. The music itself consists of a generic “Na na na” repetition, which allows the tune to be catchy without sounding annoying. Don’t Panic is a great album, however, the songs translate even better live. All Time Low recently headlined The Rock Show at the End of the World Tour. Though they only performed a few songs off of their newer album, they executed a perfect performance. . They brought back some familiar fan favorites, including “Therapy.” Prior to this song, Gaskarth gave his famous “Therapy speech” which caused every dry eye in the house to flow tears like Niagara Falls. “This next song goes out to anybody who has ever been told the way they think or the way they feel is the wrong way to think or the wrong way to feel. Anybody who has felt betrayed by their friends or their family, always be yourself no matter what.” All in all, the All Time Low that everyone knows and loves is back and is here to stay.

DON’T PANIC IS NOW AVAILABLE WHERE: target

HELLA GOOD

STUCK IN THE MIDDLE WITH YOU

COST: $9.99

DON’T PANIC IS A REALLY GREAT ALBUM. IT CHANNELS THE BAND’S EARLIER SOUND WHICH IS FAR MORE MATURE THAN THEIR LAST ALBUM.

I WANNA ROCK

HELLA GOOD

PLUGGED IN

50 SHADES OF P!NK BY: Aly Damminger The truth about P!nk’s new album, The Truth About Love? It’s definitely different. Her sixth album, released in September 2012, has showcased yet another side of the artist that many people have yet to see. “Blow Me (One Last Kiss)” was the first single released from the album in July. It reached number five on the US Billboard Hot 100 chart shortly after. The song sounds like every other pop song on the radio today. It has a fast-paced rhythm which is something many of us really enjoy, and if the track came on the radio during the course of a weekend, we wouldn’t turn it off. The beat is infectious which basically hypnotizes the listener into singing along to the appealing lyrics. During part of the song, an extremely contagious rhythm plays in the background, as the lyrics are sung, “Eyes on fire, eyes on fire, and they burn from all the tears. I’ve been crying, I’ve been crying, I’ve been dying over you. Tie a knot in the rope, tryin’ to hold, tryin’ to hold, but there’s nothing left to grasp, so I let go.” The mystery is: Why put such great lyrics in a such a bubblegum-pop song? The answer? Commercialism. The producers and P!nk herself knew it could be a popular song, so that’s why they tried to appeal to that demographic, but I feel it would be so much better as a slower song. The song isn’t all that bad, but that’s not enough to add it to your iTunes playlist anytime soon. Many other songs on the album have deep lyrics set to pop music. “Just Give Me a Reason” features Nate Ruess from Fun. The lyrics just really seemed to jump out. “I let you see the parts of me”/”That weren’t all that pretty”/“And with every touch you fixed them.” It’s the type of song that can easily get stuck in your head, which makes it a standout track. Another prominant song on the album is “Is This Thing On?” It really showcases the rasp in P!nk’s voice. Many have wide vocal range, but P!nk pours her heart and soul into each song she sings. This is clearly proven in this track. You can really feel the pain behind her words as she sings. It really helps listeners connect to her and feel her pain. Nice job with that one, P!nk.

Dec. 7, 2012

feature

Predator

Teachers reminisce about ‘good ol’ days’ filled with sweet, bittersweet memories BY MARINA JANKOVIC

around in a station wagon screaming along with the radio,” Samantha Reeves, social studies teacher, said. The odd occurrences that happened n the words of Kevin Arnold, memo- in high school also stick out in teachers’ ries are a way of holding onto the minds. For example, at Reeves’ high school, things we love, the things we are and a “Phantom Pooper” journeyed around the the things we never want to lose. Sev- school, leaving behind feces. An odd exeral teachers reminisced on their old mem- perience French teacher Barbara Woolley ories of high school, revealing the best and went through in high school was an unchaperoned trip to Paris when she was 16. worst of their experiences. “It was definitely crazy on my parents’ “I loved high school. High school was fun! I had a good time in high school,” Nancy part in letting me go,” Woolley said. Although some experiences were interestMcDonald, social ing, teachers also had studies teacher, said some darker times in about her high school high school. Harris “I was involved in school, so I experience. “I was inrecollects memories volved in school, so I enjoyed being there. It wasn’t of constantly moving enjoyed being there. drudgery to go.” from place to place. It wasn’t drudgery to He went to six high go.” schools in four years. Favorite memories “I didn’t know of teachers ranged Nancy McDonald when my parents from their first homeSocial studies teacher would move next. It coming to simply just was emotionally difspending time with ficult sometimes. Just their friends and famleavin’ folks. That element of high school, ily. “My favorite memory would be going to the social part, is important to students at homecoming my senior year. Dressing up that age. You meet people that make school and doing that stuff for the first time. That not so one-dimensional. You have fun, and freedom I was able to have and to go out if you have to leave, you have no control,” and feel like a semi-adult that night, that he said. The issue of bullying was even a probwas probably my favorite,” Kedric Harris, lem in their generation, more commonly assistant principal, said. “For my favorite memory, I think it occurring in a case where a woman was would be time spent with my friends. I was involved. “There’s nothing worse than being picked the first to get my license, and we drove

staff writer

Photo ILLUSTRATION by • Mariah Henderson Back to school - When they look at their students, teachers like Samantha Reeves think back to their own high school days. Often she can empathize with her students since high school wasn’t the easiest ride for her either. on,” Reeves said. “Nothing, nothing, nothing.” Reeves was bullied by her peers because of her intelligence and the fact that she loved to read. She, along with Woolley, was also bullied because of her interest in

sports. “The stereotype when I was in high school was that girls that played sports were ‘dykes’,” Woolley said. Through the good and the bad, these teachers obviously survived high school.

Razavi finds peace, educational opportunities in US By kelly peretz

feature editor

“I remember when day in and day out Ramen noodle was my best friend,” Dr. Reza Razavi, economics and philosophy teacher, said. Razavi started out small and worked his way up through odd jobs and long hours to stay afloat in his new American home. in Southern California. He moved to America with his brother from his native country of Iran after his freshman year of high school, barely able to speak English. “It was a totally different lifestyle,” Razavi said. “Over here I didn’t understand the concept of coming home and having nothing to eat. I started appreciating my mom and dad a lot more.” Living with his brother in a small apartment, money was sparse. “My whole net worth was $1000. I was too poor to go to prom; I was too poor to go to homecoming,” he said. “I was an outsider because I wasn’t chic; I wasn’t wearing the right clothes. “I had about four or five different (pieces) of clothing.” His high school in Iran involved a higher level of schooling and he endured 13 AP style classes in a year. The Iranian schools focused on math, science, two different languages, military training (similar to ROTC), religious studies, political science, history and geography. Classes were also six times a week from 8 am – 4 pm. “If you failed one area, you had to repeat the whole year,” he said. In America, everything was different to the Iranian native, from school social life, to class topics, to difficulty of classes. “In Iran, we didn’t have textbooks, we had teachers. When I came here, we got these textbooks and I was kind of intimidated,” he said. “The teachers expected you to know the lesson already.” Razavi was also surprised at the make-up of his new American classes.

Photo courtesy of • Dr. Reeza Razavi Fitting in - His AP Physics class gave a young Reza Razavi a place to fit in as he and his classmates collected data from the NASA Shuttle Atlantis. While the rest of the students were seniors, Dr. Razavi (leaning over his instructor on the right) was only a junior. “Coming to American and having a girl sit next to you was kind of weird.” Entering South Torrence High School as an English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) student, there were many obstacles Razavi had to overcome. “It was a tremendous amount of work. I had to fight my way to go into AP calculus

and AP physics,” Razavi said. “I wanted to be part of the best,” he said. His goal for his senior year was to graduate with the regular students and get out of the ESOL program. “My biggest triumph was to go into a regular English class and have regular kids cheating off my paper,”

Due to the turbulence in Iran, he was very thankful to come to America. He remembers when he was in sixth grade, “Every hour by the hour there were bombs dropped on the capital city,” he said. “To come from somewhere with such devastation to somewhere so peaceful was so nice.”

automotive

Predator IN THE FAST LANE BY Josh Acierno Automotive Editor

Are smart cars really the better option? Smart. That is the name. So is the product what the name implies? Well, it gets a pretty high gas mileage and is also pretty affordable with a base price of $12,490. If you want the “sportier” option, you can pay $14,890 or $17,890 for the convertible-sport option. All three models of the Smart car (the pure coupe, passion coupe and passion cabriolet) have the same engine. At about 2,200 pounds per car with a 1 liter, 5-gear, 3 cylinder engine that pushes about 70 horsepower to the real wheels (RWD) and gets a gas mileage somewhere between 34 and 38 miles per gallon, the cars are pretty efficient, but are they safe? This question, according to the IIHS (Insurance Institute of Highway Safety) says yes. On a scale from poor to marginal to acceptable and finally good, the Smart received good ratings on all type of collisions including front, side and roof collisions. T h e only exception to these results is the acceptable rating given to the head restraints in a rear collision. The reason for such exceptional safety a rating, despite its size is its revolutionary safety device; the tridion cell. It’s a heavy duty frame for the car that has a fictional name and provides extraordinary safety and durability for the car’s size. However, that’s what the IIHS says. From a personal opinion, as well as the opinions of many people my age, it’s dumb. Although it may receive 38mpg on the highway, it’s unbelievably tiny. The car’s speedometer tops out at a mere 90mph; that’s pretty slow. Why would anyone sacrifice size, horsepower, practicality, looks, trunk room and even passenger room for a car when it can be matched by something just as modern like the 2013 Volkswagen Passat TDI which has room for three more passengers than the Smart (5 total), over three times the amount of horsepower (246hp) and 40mpg on the highway and almost four more cubic feet of trunk room? The only reason anyone would want to buy this car is because it’s cheap and efficient. If you lived in a small city with low speed limits I could see its use, but not in a lifestyle that has you traveling on the highway at 70+ mph every day. It’s lethal to its driver at that speed. It may seem impractical or dumb to one driver, but another may see the Smart as truly revolutionary. It all depends on the driver. So hop in one and tell me. Is it really smart?

Dec. 7, 2012

Buttons, gadgets, lights, oh my BY Brandon Goldman co-editor in chief Like a kid in a candy store, students shopping for cars are overcome by a variety of options regardless of the vehicle make, model, or type. Shopping for a brand new vehicle makes it easy to specifically choose the options most important to you. However, the potential savings of purchasing a preowned vehicle with options that might be close to what you are looking for, but not everything you are looking for, may be worthwhile. “My p r e f e r ence is to buy a used car that is one or two years old because it’s cheaper and its value has already depreciated,” James Winfrey, junior, said. “I prefer manual transmission cars over an automatic transmission and having two doors is a good feature, too.” One feature many teenagers wish to have is a powerful sound system. “Having a strong sound system is great because you can jam out to whatever kind of music you like,” Derek French, junior, said. One of the most requested features teenagers wish to have in their vehicle is a way to plug in their iPod or phone into the car’s stereo. One way of doing this, through an auxiliary input, comes standard on many makes and models manufactured after 2006. “Being able to plug in my phone to my stereo is my favorite fea-

ture because sometimes the radio doesn’t have good music on or there are just boring talk shows,” Brandon Young, junior, said. Additionally, many vehicles produced after 2008 come with a USB input which allows individuals to play music through the car stereo while at the same time charging the music device and syncing song information. “I think it depends on the price point, for instance if they are looking for something like a Honda Civic or a vehicle in the

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“I think Hands Free Bluetooth is critical from the standpoint of avoiding texting while driving and ultimately talking on the phone while driving and I think it’s definitely worth it,” Meyers said. Although overlooked by most teenagers, Consumer Reports suggests safety as one of the most important factors to consider when shopping for a car in their 2012 Vehicle Safety Features guide. Driver and passenger airbags have been standard equipment in all passenger vehicles since cars produced in 1998 and all SUV’s, trucks and vans since model year 1999. Side airbags (SABs), which come standard on many vehicles manufactured after 2004, are a helpful safety feature for side collision accidents and roll overs. Some features such as navigation systems, all-wheel drive (AWD), back-up cameras, window tint, and heated seats are all favorable options among teenagers. Such options may raise the initial price of a vehicle, but may help the vehicle hold its resale value. Although important to many younger drivers, aftermarket wheels, body kits and performance modifications offer little protection for the vehicle resale value, and such features may void vehicle warranties. “When cars come in on trade, it’s very rare that they receive additional funds for things the owner has put into the vehicle, however,

$10,000-$15,000 price range, you typically won’t get the best audio features, but those types of features are starting to become more prevalent in newer vehicles,” Nick Meyers, President of Prestige Motors Tampa, said in an interview with The Predator. Technology is always changing, so it’s difficult to stay ahead of the curve when it comes to the equipment in a vehicle. Steering wheel mounted radio controls and Hands Free Bluetooth are two features that you will want to consider for convenience and safety. Both of these features are offered as standard amenities on budget-based vehicles such as the 2012 Honda Civic, the 2013 Ford Focus, and the 2013 Toyota Corolla.

I think a quality upgraded stereo along with a navigation system, may yield slightly more money in the future” Meyers explained. When it comes to purchasing a car, whether new or used, it’s important to research vehicle options to make sure they suit your personal requests to make the vehicle “your own.”

Useful Safety Features on Modern Day Cars 1) Adaptive headlights: Follows the path of a car’s turn to expose more light and make its path safer. 2) ABS: Anti-lock Braking Systems allow a car to brake without the wheels locking up so it does not lose traction. 3) TCS: Traction Control Systems contain sensors throughout a car which make small adjustments to brake pressure, gas intake or acceleration to maintain control. 4) Sensors: A light on the dashboard will turn on when things like tire pressure or the engine needs to be checked. 5) Dual-stage airbags: Deploys one of two, or both airbags depending on severity of a crash to protect passengers. 6) Side-curtain airbags: Deployed to protect passengers from glass chards/head injuries. 7) Emergency response: Allows for easy contact to emergency Photo (top left) by Scott Sollazzo Infographic by Josh Acierno

No roof, no problem...

The roof is gone, the safety is not BY Josh Acierno Automotive Editor When you’re looking to buy a car and you find yourself falling in love with that sporty and luxurious convertible, don’t let anyone change your decision on whether or not you want it because they claim that you’ll die, they’d be wrong to tell you that. “It seems reasonable,” said junior Brendan Figuerido, “a car without a roof should be less safe because it has less protection.” The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) has conducted several crash test experiments with results concluding that a convertible is just as safe as a hard top. Midsize convertibles such as the Ford Mustang, Saab 9-3 or Volvo C70 all received “Good” ratings for side, rear, and front collisions, the highest available rating on a scale from poor to marginal, acceptable, and good. The only exception to these ratings is the BMW 3 series which received a “Marginal” rating for side collisions. “I drive my mom’s convertible mustang all the time but never feel like I’m unsafe. A car can protect you from an accident but it’s up to the driver to avoid them in the first place. I’m confident in the

PHOTO ILLUSTRATION BY • SCOTT SOLLAZZO FUN WITH THE TOP DOWN•Thomas Tonelli, junior rides around his side of town with his hands up and his top down. Driving with a convertible does not entirely make a ride unsafe. car and myself,” said senior Annie Mahanor. Convertibles compensate for the lost structural integrity by strengthening other parts of the car. This reduces the damage inflicted during a crash. The biggest danger is the fact that in an open topped car, a passenger’s arms

or head are free to move outside of the vehicle leaving them more vulnerable to injury or death. Tests conducted by the IIHS show that the risk of death in a convertible compared to a hardtop vehicle is almost the same. One recommendation to buyers looking at convertibles is to buy

one with a roll cage integrated into the convertible. So if you like the soft top version of the car you’re looking at but think the retractable hard top is safer, get the soft top. The safety rating isn’t actually increased by having a hard-top convertible versus having a canvas top.

sports

Dec. 7, 2012

Predator

Ineligibility plagues athletes By CJ POTTER staff writer

ROGERS’ RUNDOWN>

By NICK ROGERS

a repuatation tarnished

he face of American cycling, the face of Livestrong, The face of prevailing through the lowest of lows to prevail and end up on top. Stripped of everything. Lance Armstrong was an inspiration to millions of people worldwide and was viewed a good-hearted individual by nearly everybody who knew his story. Until the allegations of “doping” were brought up. Armstrong denies that he never has used a performance enhancing drugs. Armstrong said, “If I thought for one moment that by participating in USADA’s process, I could confront these allegations in a fair setting and - once and for all - put these charges to rest, I would jump at the chance. But I refuse to participate in a process that is so one-sided and unfair.” The Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI) decided on October 22, 2012 to take away all of Lance Armstrong’s wins since 1998 and all seven of his Tour de France medals. But was Lance wrong? With no physical evidence being presented so far, the UCI is basing their actions on of rumors and allegations. We may never know if he cheated, but as of now Armstrong has lost fans and sponsors from companies such as Nike, Oakley and Trek Bicycles. The yellow of the Livestrong brand is now rarely seen on cycling’s biggest stages. However I will continue to support Lance Armstrong until there is concrete proof that the face of United States cycling is a fraud, I will continue to wear my yellow Livestrong bracelets to raise awareness for cancer wherever I may go. Keep riding and being positive, Mr. Armstrong. They may take away your medals, but they can never take away your passion and pursuit to fight against cancer.

ne thing that every single teenager goes through is suffering the consequences for their actions. Owning up to those actions, good or bad defines them as a person, and FHSAA (Florida High School Athletic Association) expects that out of all of their student-athletes. “I just didn’t do my work, I would get home and be lazy and most of the time I’d fall asleep or just not feel like doing my work,” Theo Hyppolite, sophomore cornerback, said about his ineligibility. FHSAA states in its Bylaws 201213 edition, section 9.4.1 that “A middle/junior high student must have 2.0 GPA, or the equivalent of a 2.0 GPA based on a 4.0 scale, at the conclusion of each semester. “A high school student must have a cumulative 2.0 grade point average on a 4.0 unweighted scale, or its equivalent, at the conclusion of each semester to be academically eligible during the next semester.” So what happens to the studentathletes who fall below that 2.0 and become academically ineligible? “I’m ineligible because I didn’t put forth the effort to do my job in school. Instead (I) was only focusing on the field,” junior receiver Tyler Owens said. “I wouldn’t say football contributed to not focusing. If I would have done my job in the books while at school and

Photo by • Alex Montgomery ARE YOU A STUDENT-ATHLETE- Brett Kaminski steps in for an at bat during last season. Athletes face stress of competing on the field with teamates as well as competing for grades in the classroom with their peers. after practice it would be fine. Football didn’t have any part, but laziness did.” Being ineligible is probably one of the most stressful things to go through as an athlete. The lose the amount of reps during practice and can’t suit up for games. The only way they can “contribute” to their team is assisting the referees or giving the team water during a timeout; they don’t get to wear a jersey, just a team shirt, and then they get to stand there and watch everyone play the

game they love. FHSAA later states in its handbook, section 9.4.1.2, “A student who is academically eligible at the beginning of a semester will continue to be academically eligible for that entire semester. “Likewise, a student who is academically ineligible at the beginning of a semester will continue to be academically ineligible for that entire semester, except as provided in Bylaw 9.4.5.1.2. “The student’s academic eligibility for each successive semester

will depend upon his/her cumulative GPA at the conclusion of the previous semester.” “Well, rules are rules, so I guess you have to follow them but I think it should be one quarter because I made the corrections and learned from my mistakes,” ineligible sophomore linebacker, Sean McNamee said. So how does being ineligible even happen? What are the causes for ineligibility? “It’s just pure laziness,” Hyppolite said.

Multisport athletes battle against time by Kelly Peretz Feature editor

hrough the tiresome teenage toils and neverending streams of homework, a certain breed of student rises above and conquers the high school experience. This student not only deals with homework and regular teenage drama but at least two high school sports. “At times, you have to pick and choose what is more important,” Adam Walker, senior varsity lacrosse and ice hockey player, said. “It makes you really efficient with the time you’re given.” Anyone who has ever tried to participate in a high school sport knows all about the grueling practices, the long hours of commitment and the extra stress of games and homework that come with them. “You don’t have time in between,” Chase Litton, varsity basketball and football player, said. When two seasons run close together, most students find that there is rarely any down-time to enjoy the little things in life like television, or perhaps the most important thing to a high schooler: sleep. “At times I’m going straight from school to hockey practice then to lacrosse practice and then have a test the next day,” Walker said.

Photo illustration by • Alex Montgomery more than meets the eye -Adam Walker is constantly busy while playing both lacrosse and hockey. Multi-sport athletes must be able to budget their time and studies.

However, despite the complications of participating in more than one sport there are many advantages.

Playing sports that complement each other is an added bonus for some athletes. “Basketball gives me a lot of

footwork I can use for football and jumping for basketball and football,” Litton said. Additionally, when a student participates in more than one sport, he or she seems to have a sense of responsibility, and must maintain the necessary 2.0 GPA required for all high school athletes. “Most of the teachers are flexible, like they’ll give me an extra day for homework,” Litton said. Many student-athletes experience the same kindness displayed by teachers who understand the tough schedule these studentathletes endure. “It’s nice to know you can help out anyone on your team with homework or anything, because you’ve been there,” Walker said. Also, by playing more than one sport, it keeps options open for college. Walker has no trouble juggling the sports of lacrosse and ice hockey while taking six AP classes, maintaining a weighted GPA of 5.7 throughout his high school career and has clenched the 26th spot in his class. “You stand out tremendously on college apps,” Walker said. “It makes you really efficient with the time you’re given.” Many teens think their biggest difficulty is life with an Android instead of an iPhone. However, a multi-sport athlete knows a different struggle: The struggle to survive.

Predator

sports

Dec. 7, 2012

Ladycats volleyball goes out with bang byNikki morse

we worked pretty well together this season. Even though we lost to Plant in districts (2-3), and that he Blue Crew roars was tough, I’m still really proud of above the opposing everything we’ve accomplished.” Andreychuk rounds out the seacrowd, “I. I BELIEVE. I BELIEVE THAT. I son with 396 kills, 93 serving aces BELIEVE THAT WE. I and 198 digs. Coach Eric Barber has headed BELIEVE THAT WE WILL WIN. I BELIEVE THAT WE WILL WIN. I this team for four years. Through BELIEVE THAT WE WILL WIN.” tryouts, summer conditioning, And they proved themselves cor- pre-season games and everything rect as the Lady Wildcats volley- in between, Barber was there to ball team made it through their push his girls along. “I am so proud of what our team first undefeated regular season, accomplished, it’s another record 24-0. All the way to the regional play- setting season,” he said. “We remained unoffs on Oct. defeated at 30, the 12 girls for were practi“I am so proud of what our team home the second cally family has accomplished; it’s another season in as they beat a row and the best of the record setting season.” won our best including tournaschools like ment (HarPlant, Newvest Toursome, Bloomeric barber nament) for ingdale and Steinbrenner. head coach the second time in a Senior OH, row.” Caci AndreyAs all chuk said, “I had a really great year and have things come to an end, so did the some amazing memories. My fa- Lady Wildcats’ winning streak. vorite memory would have to be On Oct. 30, in a heated match in the bus ride home from Bloom- the regional semi-finals against ingdale just because it was really Palm Harbor University, the girls funny. I mean I don’t want to say lost in the third set, 25-27. Lindsey Schaible, freshman MB we were making fun of the bus and MH said, “Losing in regiondriver but maybe we were. “I love all the girls on the team. als made me kind of upset beThey’re all my best friends and cause we worked really hard the

co-sports editor

whole season but I was happy because we had a really good turnout for the overall season. It’s definitely something we should be proud of.” Schiable fans should be proud of the 6’1” freshman who racked up 74 total blocks and 42 solo blocks. Now that the season has come to a close, the Lady Wildcats have definitely marked themselves as force to be reckoned with for next year. Despite losing three seniors, Ashton Stocker, Caci Andreychuk and Kathryn Kastner, the team won’t let that stop them in the years to come. Some of the seniors may be hanging up their knee pads forever while others head to college to keep up with the sport they love. Photo by • Terry sollazzo Senior setter Ashton One set, two set, three set, score- Kylie Paul, junior; Katherine Kastner, senior; and Stocker said, “I got a Chanelle Hargreaves, freshman, stand ready to return the serve from Bloomingdale. scholarship to Furman University back in May just by playing club Stocker finished off her high extra charisma. Adopting new volleyball. I’m really excited to school career with 79 kills, 51 players onto the team will be a go and show what I can do. I’m serving aces, 42 total blocks, 631 rough adjustment for everyone; going to miss this season and the assists and 34 digs. however, we still believe. We girls and all the memories. I love The returning players will take still believe that. We still believe all the girls; we did really well all the court next year with their that we. around this season. It’s the best three graduated family members WE STILL BELIEVE THAT WE one we’ve had.” in mind as they play with a little WILL WIN.

Game day

20 Dec. 7, 2012

Predator

Busch babies bring talents to New Tampa By nick Rogers

allow them to set up in a defense. “We just kind of click, we know where each other is going to be, we don’t have t’s more than best friends being to look at each other to know where we together on the same team. It’s a need to pass the ball,” said Jaken Grier. fraternity of players growing up Wharton has always had a dominant in the same city, the same county, basketball program under the reign of even on the same street. head coach Tommy Tonelli. The trio of players are known as the However this year could be the year Busch Babies referring to Busch Boule- that the Cats go further than they ever vard, the street they live on. have. Wharton high school has three play“We want to carry the team. We want to ers on their team with chemistry that is win state and we are going to try our best unmatched by any other school in the to make it happen,” said Virgil Crump. county. The Busch Babies make sure that they Virgil Crump, Jaken Grier, never stop working hard, they and Sir Patrick Reynolds want the most for them be“It was what all of us cause of the background have always played bascould connect with, we ketball and known about they grew up in. decided to always have each other’s talents. “Busch isn’t the best each others backs, to They have pushed each place to grow up,” said always be on the lookother to be better playGrier, “There’s a ton of out and to always act ers since their middle crime and a ton of just bad school years. things that happen. A lot like brothers.” “All of us are really of times you don’t feel safe Virgil crump competitive and look to be walking around.” senior the best players we can be,” That unprotected feeling said Sir Patrick Reynolds. might be exactly what formed the The players are like poetry in motion bond between the three players. when on the court together; Crump is “It was what all of us could connect able to run the point guard position ef- with, we decided to always have each fectively while Reynolds and Grier fill in others backs, to always be on the lookat the wings. out and to always act like brothers,” said The trio makes the fast break for the Reynolds. Wildcats essentially unstoppable. The Busch Babies are more than three The speed and agility of the three friends that connect on a court. players make it easy to keep the opposThey are a group of brothers that are ing teams on their toes and hardly ever a family.

sports editor

Photo Illustration by • scott sollazzo

Wharton’s big three - Seniors Virgil Crump, Sir Patrick Reynolds, and Jaken Grier are known as the “Busch Babies.” All three have played basketball together since middle school.

D e c e mb e r Sunday

Monday

Tuesday 6:00pm Soccer @ Riverview

26 6:30pm Basketball @ Alonso

2 First night of Hanukkah

9 Hanukkah ends

16 Winter Break begins

7 pm J.V. Wrestling @ Robinson 3 6:30pm Basketball @ Chamberlain

10 6:30pm Basketball @ Brandon

6:30pm Basketball @ Strawberry Crest 27 6 pm Soccer @ Newsome

4 6 pm Soccer @ Strawberry Crest

6 pm Soccer @ Alonso 6:30pm Basketball @ Durant 7 pm Prism 18

Christmas Christmas Day Eve

Thursday

Wednesday

club day

28 6:30pm Basketball @ Gaither 7 pm Varsity Wrestling @ Gaither 5 6:30pm Basketball @ Bloomingdale

6 pm Fall Sports Banquet

19 First Day of Kwanzaa

6:30pm Girls Basketball @ Plant City

Friday

Saturday

6 pm Soccer @ Sickles

6 am SAT Testing

7 pm Wrestling @ Sickles

Winterfest 6

6 pm Basketball @ Plant 7

All Day Wrestling 7 pm Varsity Wrestling 7 pm Wrestling Division @ Freedom Division Championships Championships In A Glass Grimmly In A Glass Grimmly In A Glass Grimmly Performance Performance Performance 5 -9 pm 13 5 -9 pm 14 5 -9 pm 15 6 pm Soccer 7 pm Varsity @ Gaither 6:30 pm Basketball Wrestling 7 pm Varsity @ Alonso @ Riverview Wrestling @ Steinbrenner 20 22 21

29 Winter Break ends

Kwanzaa ends