Predator - February 2013 by Wharton High School - Predator Newspaper

PREDATOR PAUL R. WHARTON HIGH SCHOOL

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Feb. 11, 2013

Volume 16 Issue 3

INSIDE

Evolution of Technology ASIMO: Honda produces new, innovative, humanoid robot. Pages 10 & 11

FEATURE Photo illustration by • alex montgomery BRIGHTER THAN THE REST - Earl Bell, junior, creates a light source using a complete circuit from a household battery. Bell will be one of two students awarded the title of the 2013 Sunshine State Scholar for Science and STEM education for the Hillsborough County Public School District.

Bromances: Taking friends to the next level. Page 8

AUTOMOTIVE

What does your car say about you? Page 17

SPORTS Wharton prospect Tucker Neuhaus chases MLB dreams. Page 20

Earl Bell, junior, named Sunshine State Scholar for Science and STEM education By ashley benjamin

centerspread editor

n academic Blue Chipper is walking the halls of Wharton. Junior Earl Bell has been awarded the title of the 2013 Sunshine State Scholar for Science and STEM (Science, technology, engineering and math) education. “I was pretty excited when I found out I was eligible,” Bell, said. Bell will represent the Hillsborough County Public School District at a statewide recognition program for two days in Orlando beginning on Feb. 21. He is also Wharton’s top junior in science and math education. “I think it’ll give me better opportunities, and I’ll be able to get scholarships and get accepted into better colleges,” he said. At the event, STEM students will be recognized for their

achievements, meet industry leaders, talk with Florida college representatives and learn about innovations and discoveries. Each school district in Florida identifies its top junior students in math and science and awards them with the title of a Sunshine State Scholar. “Our aim is to treat these scholars like blue-chip athletes, recognize them for their achievements, and recruit them to remain in Florida for their postsecondary education and an exciting STEM-related career,” Mary Lee Kiracofe, executive director of the Florida Education Foundation, said. Bell plans to do just that: pursue an engineering degree in Florida. “I like science, physics especially. I want to go into physics after college. I hope to work at CERN in Switzerland. I think it’s pretty cool,” Bell said. At CERN (European Organi-

zation for Nuclear Research) physicists and engineers investigate structures of the universe by using some of the world’s most complex scientific instruments to study the fundamental particles of the universe. Much has changed since Bell was younger; then, he aspired to become a veterinarian. “I found out what physics was by watching YouTube videos and it really interested me, “ he said. Along with his educational excellence, Bell is also involved with some of the school’s clubs and sports. “I’m on the wrestling team, the Mu Alpha Theta team; the calculus division.” Teachers agree that it is good that the 2013 Sunshine State Scholar for Science and STEM education to be awarded to him. “He’s a very hard working student, one of my best,” Denise Dennison, his AP biology teacher, said. “He is very helpful and

willing to help with struggling students in his class.” The Sunshine State Scholar for Science and STEM education program was founded in 1997 as a statewide math and science competition. It has evolved into an initiative recognizing Florida’s top students in STEMrelated disciplines. Bell will be one of two students awarded the title of the 2013 Sunshine State Scholar for Science and STEM education in the district. “Earl had the most relevant coursework, grades, AP scores and interest in staying in Florida for a STEM career,” Kevin Maloney, AP environmental and forensics teacher, said. Students who are awarded the title are mostly considered well-rounded students in high school. “I think that by being awarded this,” Bell said, “this could add to the many things that have defined me in life.”

Wharton High School’s Robotics Team dominates others in district competition By brandon goldman co-editor in chief

he Wharton High School Robotics team placed fifth at a recent competition at Polk State Student Center where they dominated local Hillsborough County schools. Their robot, dubbed Bro-

bot, was created by students involved in the Robotics Club sponsored by Christopher Hart who teaches pre-engineering, physics honors & AP, as well as astronomy at Wharton. Wharton’s Robotics Team outperformed competition without the benefits of having corporate sponsorships, something on which many other schools rely to participate in the events. Students who took part in the

January district competition moved on to the regional championship that was hosted at Jesuit High School on Feb. 2. At this competition, the Robotics Team placed seventh overall and fourth in the elimination round. Brobot, controlled by head drivers Aditya Chelikani, junior, and Anthony Villa-Garcia, senior, was able to double the team’s score in the fourth round.

Photo by • Scott Sollazzo Brobot “FTW!” - Wharton Robotics Team members (left to right), seniors Drew Fanning, John Astfanous, Pravin Henderson, Stephen Astfanous, Anthony Villa-Garcia and Samantha Villa-Garcia, sophomore, and Aditya Chelikani, junior, stand next to their robot, named ‘Brobot’. The Robotics Team helped carry their robot to victory while placing fifth place at the Polk State competition in January.

news

Feb. 11, 2013

Predator

On Instagram... straight flexin’

Instagram announces new photo policies; photos now capable of public distribution By Marielle Gomez health editor

“I

accept the terms and conditions.” One of the most frequent lies told by any Internet

user. Who really has the time to sit down and read every single word in such a dull document? For Instagram users, this little white lie was going to come back and bite them. The changes to the social network’s terms and conditions had been interpreted as having the user accept that his photos, username and other information would be sold for advertisement purposes without giving the user any indication or compensation. The changes were to go into effect Jan. 16. That is, until the public gave such an outcry that Instagram, now owned by Facebook, decided not to implement these changes. At least for now. “I was kind of shocked that Instagram could do that without asking permission, because my cousin had no idea until his friend told him,” Gloria Truongcao, junior, said.

Photo Illustration By • Scott Sollazzo Instagram MayhEm - According to the recent revisions to Instagram’s photo policy, individuals now accept the terms and conditions that allow resale and distribution of images to advertisers without compensation or indication to the user. The changes were to go into effect Jan. 16.

In fact, by accepting the terms and conditions, users are giving Instagram the right to use the information. One of Instagram’s main is-

sues was the wording of the changes to the terms and conditions. People were interpreting the changes as allowing Instagram to sell a person’s photos

to use in advertisements in the app without giving the user compensation or even notifying the user that his or her photos are being used.

“[I] probably [would] not [continue using Instagram] because my information will be given out and because Instagram is on my iPhone, my phone number would be given out, too,” Rebecca Kwak, junior, said. In actuality, Instagram was not intending to sell users’ photos. “I just think that if Instagram does find a picture they want to use, they should ask the person that posted the picture for permission, and as long as they ask, they should be allowed to,” Truongcao said. A person who owned an account before Jan. 16 and decided to keep it after that date was automatically considered to have accepted the changes to the terms and conditions. The only way to decline the changes was to delete the account. Instagram has decided to leave its advertisement section of the terms and conditions to how it was written before. However, due to the confusion, they will be making a change to the terms. These changes will help resolve any issues regarding user privacy. That means that the people who don’t give the terms and conditions a second thought are off the hook. For now.

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Predator

news

Feb. 11, 2013

Unemployment rates lapse

Economy turns around BY MADISON GIARRIZZO STAFF WRITER “We have to let you go,” the words no one wants to hear from a boss. Yet, for the last six years, bosses across the nation have been forced to incorporate it into their vocabulary. When the recession hit in December of 2007, the number of people unemployed skyrocketed from 7.645 million to 11.299 million unemployed the following year. “One day you think unemployment doesn’t affect you, and then the next day, all of a sudden, you hear about someone you know getting laid off,” said Ilouisa Salazar, junior. While the number of unemployed consistently lowered in January of 2011, it is still in the 10 millions. Unemployment is visible in all areas of wealth, from the poorest families to even the more fortunate families. People are still being laid off by the hundreds. Companies just can’t afford to pay all of their workers. Even the most stable job can become irrelevant in the blink of an eye. Students who thought their parents had stable jobs, and would never in a million years lose that job, all of a sud-

Thank you Britainy Smith, Ashley Cahil, Christina Malcolm, Kasey Joyce, Jamie Miller, and Jamie Spiegler for all the great memories this season! Your team will miss you!

den see their parents out of While it may seem that all work and hunting in a competi- hope is lost for the unemploytive job market. ment rate to lower, numbers are “After my mom lost her job, turning around. it was really hard. We couldn’t The current number of unemdo some of the things that we ployed people in the US was used to do, because her having down to 12.206 million in Deno job changed everything for cember 2012. our family,” said Kyana Green, More and more people are junior. getting jobs and are able to supDue to all the layoffs families port their families. aren’t earning as much money, “My mom’s doing a lot betso simter now ple purthat she chases has a job,” “One day you think like food G r e e n and bills s a i d . unemployment doesn’t affect are a “ S h e ’ s struggle you, and then the next day, all of a making a sudden, you hear about to pay. lot more Acm o n e y someone you know getting cording now too.” laid off.” to USAThe US T O D AY DepartFeb. 2, Ilouisa salazar ment of 2010, on L a b o r junior continues average, 1 in 8 to report Amerithe jobless cans get help at food banks. rate weekly and as of Jan. 5, the Relying on these banks to get numbers were declining. In fact, their food for the week, and ac- at the end of the first week of cording to Feeding America, January 2013, only 371,000 peo40 percent of those people re- ple are claiming unemployment ceiving food are non-Hispanic insurance. whites. “It’s fantastic that a consider“It’s unfortunate to see so able amount of people are getmany families in hardship [be- ting jobs,” said Salazar. “It’s not cause of unemployment],” said only great for the community’s Jessie Jane Sommer, senior. economy but for its heart too.”

Feb 11, 2013

school news

Predator

Annual 5K run helps fund wishes By Manal BEnyamine Staff Writer

harton’s 5K and 1-Mile Fun Runs are coming back on Feb. 16. Established to fund the teachers’ wish lists of needs for the classroom, the proceeds from the Run will go to fulfill these wishes from the Wishes for Wharton Foundation. “One hundred percent of the proceeds go to the teachers’ wish lists. We don’t keep anything,” Run Co-Chair Lisa Speranza said. The theme this year is “Beat Beethoven.” His 5th Symphony will be playing while participants enter the run. Those who finish the three miles before the song is over will be entered in a raffle. “If they finish the race in under 29 minutes, the length of Beethoven’s 5th symphony, their name will be entered into

Photo illustration • Alex Montgomery RUn for fun - Students prepare for the Wharton’s annual 5K run on Feb. 16. The Run, which is spear-headed by the PTSA, is a fundraiser for the Wishes for Wharton Foundation, to pay for teachers’ supplies and classroom needs. a live drawing the drawing for a $250 Wiregrass gift card,” Chairperson Lisa Essek said. Registration begins at 7:30 am and the 5K starts at 8:30 am. Participants will run a three mile course around Wharton. At 9 am a shorter course called the 1-Mile Fun Run begins and kids will receive a medal.

“The Fun Run is a kid event with the parents running with them,” Essek said. “Every kid who completes the mile gets a medal. Kids love it.” Participants can run, walk or skip the three miles. This event is open to the community so friends and family are welcome. Tickets are $15 per person and

group of 10 or more tickets is only $10 each. Another way to order the tickets and register for the 5K is on www.active.com search Wharton Run. “We encourage everyone to participate and show their support at the Run,” Essex said. PTSA members Speranza and Essek will be at Wharton to sell

tickets on Jan. 30, Feb. 1 and Feb. 6 during all lunch periods. “Those who preregister are guaranteed a 5K run t-shirt,” Essex said. Olympic medalist Justin Gatlin will be there to sign autographs . “Just come and have fun with your friends and family,” said Essek.

Nursing program offers headstart in career By Madison Giarrizzo Staff Writer Many people wish they could be part of a program that helps people and which can further their future career. The students in the nursing program are those lucky people able to do just that. The nursing program, taught by Patricia Goetz, helps to furtheir students who want to pursue a career in nursing. The classes in the program are medical skills, Health Science I, Health Science II and nursing assistant. “After college I would really like to become a nurse practitioner,” said Natalie Santoro, a junior in Health Science I. This program offers classes right up Santoro’s alley. Students in the nursing program use their skills aquired in the classroom to help out people in need in the community. “The students go to the hospital and a nursing home. They take care of the patient’s needs and assist the nursing staff,” Goetz said.

Photo by • GIGi JAckson Need a hand - Senior Demoneya Stubbo practices using the stethoscope on senior Joe Sanabria. This program helps to further students education of nursing and the health science programs. Along with helping people, the nursing program helps to further the careers of those students who want to pursue nursing.

If the students want to become a certified nursing assistant, they have a list of clinical skills that they practice in the classroom. After they complete those

and the program at Wharton, step up.” they are eligible to take the state Having the opportunity to board examination. gain necessary skills in the field Most of the seniors who take of nursing can help save time in nursing take the state board af- the long run. It also gives stuter they graduate. dents an edge over other people “Most (students) are seniors applying for nursing schools, when they take nursing so most not just in the area but in the will take their state board after country as well. they graduate,” said Goetz. “When you’re in the nursing If they pass the state board, aide you get hands-on experithey can go “Getting to do tons of hands ence before straight into a you get to colon activities is fun and it’s lege, which nursing job or attend a nurs- helping me a lot in furthering gives you an ing program edge over my career in nursing.” in college to other people even further trying to their training/ get into the NAtalie Santoro career. same nursing Junior Students in school,” said the program Santoro. do end up becoming nurses or Students are able to practice getting into nursing programs and perfect the skills needed at prestigious schools. However, in the field, such as practicing for others, it takes a little while reading an EKG test, taking to gain momentum in the field. blood pressure and practicing “Some [students] will go right CPR on dummies to become away to top programs, like the certified. nursing program at USF,” Goetz “Getting to do tons of hands said. “Some take longer than on activities is fun,” Santoro others, but I keep in touch with said, “and it’s helping me a lot a lot of them so when they are in furthering my career in nursfinally ready I can help them ing.”

Predator

SCHOOL news

Feb. 11, 2013

Tutoring brings out student potential By Jessie savedge staff writer

“W

harton helping Wharton,” J a v i e r Ramirez, BETA president, said. Wharton’s NHS and BETA clubs started a tutoring program in November that club officers feel has been a huge success. “It’s a great opportunity for students to improve their grade without having to pay a tutor,” Jennifer Kaczmarek, NHS president, said. Students willingly sign up for help they need and are tutored by classmates who feel experienced in the select subject. “Students tutor in subjects they are confident in and work in all subjects,” Kaczmarek said, “from math to languages.” So far the results look promising. “I tutor in Algebra 2,” Shannon Clark, senior, said. “It’s helped a lot. Since I started working with Sir Patrick Reynolds, his grade has increased by about 52 percent.” However, it’s more than just strictly the subject in which the students receive help. “Students who sign up for tutoring are helped because not

only are they receiving academic help,” Ramirez said, “but they are also getting insider tips from previous students on how to maximize work productivity.” Not only does the program help students improve their grades but those tutoring also benefit. “It’s a great opportunity for students to earn their points.” Ramirez said. “Especially since a lot of kids have difficulty reaching the required amount.” To remain in NHS and BETA, students must earn 10 points per semester for each club, which is where the program helps them too. Students earn one point per hour of tutoring that they help with. “Twice a week students work together for about 30 minutes,” Kaczmarek said. Students give up part of their lunch period to help each other, although they do have enough time to eat before tutoring starts. Not only is the program raising Wharton’s GPA, but it’s teaching the tutors lessons too. “I learned how to be patient and break things down in an understandable fashion,” Clark said. “The biggest challenge was vocalizing how to do it.” The one problem with the program is that it hasn’t reached as many as it could. “The only real issue is that I

Photo by • Mariah henderson proud mama - Senior Noor Albashir smiles as the pieces fall into place for Caleb Ortiz, freshman. The moment when their pupil finally understands the concept gives tutors a sense of pride, similar to the feeling a proud parent gets. wish more students would admit their need for tutoring and sign up,” Ramirez said. Despite this, the program has had a positive effect on everyone involved. “The ability to see the change

in your fellow students for the better,” Clark said. “That is the best thing about the program.” The program is expected to grow throughout the rest of the year and improve as well. Students that are interested

in participating in the program should talk to their guidance counser, Georgie Collins (202), or Samantha Reeves (126). “We are creating a stronger unity within the school,” Ramirez said.

COLLEGE

Feb. 11, 2013

My Two Cents

Predator

Choosing roomie adds stress By Joseph Parades

Staff Writer

Olivia Mahanor College Editor

Senioritis hits Seniors have finally made it. They are now the big dogs on campus. However, as the value of going to the last football games, homecoming and pep rallies start to wear off, most (if not all) seniors develop “senioritis.” Senioritis is a very common syndrome. Side effects include not wanting to wake up for school, not doing any homework and complaining about how much they can't wait to get out of high school. Bear with these seniors; this is just temporary. Their condition will wear off around prom time. This is when they realize they have to graduate and leave high school. This is also when seniors will tell you how much they actually love high school and never want to be out in the "real world.” Senioritis will have its way with almost anyone, even the kids who love school or the kids who make perfect grades. Right now they need to try to stay focused and keep their eyes on the prize. Who wants to tarnish three years of hard work?

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Test Days Mar. 9 May 4 Jun. 1 Registration Feb. 8 Apr. 5 May 2 Late Registration Feb. 22 Apr. 19 May 17

ne would think that after being accepted to the college of one’s choice the stress would be over with. However, an individual with that particular thought pattern would be wrong. Has the future of living with a complete stranger in a closetsize space been forgotten? Yes, college applications have been submitted and decisions have most likely been made, but the decision-making process of choosing someone with whom you are to share your dorm room has just begun. We all have our own set standards, but what exactly are the baseline requirements shared amongst students as to what makes the “perfect roommate?” “Someone who cleans up after themselves and has good hygiene are musts,” Tatiana Mermolia, senior, said. “Someone friendly that you can laugh with and who is open minded also makes a good roommate.” Whether one attends an outof-state or in-state institution, finding the perfect roommate is a struggle. However, there have been different developments such as roomsurf and other school services which allow one to self-select a roommate based on compatibility through social networking and various surveys.

PHOTO ILLUSTRATION BY CARIN COURSEY “Compatibility sites provide a good preview of what morals and type of person you will be rooming with,” Maria Diaz, Wharton alumni, said. “It’s nice to know that you and the person you’re going to room with at least have something in common.” Yet, these developments have also been received negatively by other alumni. “They’re an inaccurate repre-

sentation,” Ben Hwang, Wharton alumni, said. “As everyone should know, especially those in high school, people use social networking to enhance their image in order to exceed expectations. It simply isn’t a reliable source of judgment.” Careful consideration goes into selecting the perfect roommate. From their personality to their cleanliness on a daily basis, the decision isn’t easy.

“In the end, all you really want is someone who you’re going to make great memories with while you test each other’s tolerance levels,” Diaz said. “There is no perfect roommate. You can’t clone yourself. A mere second-best with good qualities is going to have to make you happy.” And we thought choosing between colleges was difficult.

When dreams are crushed BY PAIGE RODERICK Staff Writer

t is the moment all students have anxiously awaited. They go to the mailbox, bring in the mail, and it is there. It’s the letter that could change their lives…the letter from their dream school. The letter burns in their hands. Then the saddest fear creeps in: “What if I don’t get in?” “I would personally be very sad and just take a few days away from everyone,” Julian Soufan, junior, said. “We are sorry to inform you that…” and the heart stops. Dreams are crushed in a matter of a few simple words. How is life going to go on? “It sucks at first, but you can prosper just as much at another school,” Rebecca Ross, sophomore, said. Students tend to get extremely discouraged when they are rejected from their dream school. Some students have it even worse when they only apply to that dream school and have nothing to fall back on when they don’t get accepted. How can they avoid this? “It’s really important to apply to more than just your dream school, just so you have something to fall back on if you don’t get accepted into your dream school. You need other

PHOTO ILLUSTRATION BY GIGI JACKSON THE MOMENT OF TRUTH - Many seniors dread February, because this is the month several colleges send their notifications of acceptance or rejection. Rejection letters do not have to mean the end of the world. Seniors need to make sure they apply at more than one school to ensure they are headed for college the following year. options so you can be happy with the college you get into, even if you don’t get into your first choice,” Soufan said. The hardest part about getting rejected from your dream school can be how to handle the rejection. So, what’s the most positive way to deal with it? “Don’t give up and don’t take it too personally,” Jessica Wag-

ner, senior, said. “There can be many reasons that you weren’t accepted, but there are plenty of other schools that you can get into. Keep applying and keep at it. You can do it.” What if you’re not the one being rejected, but instead someone you know and care about? How can you really understand what they are going through if it hasn’t happened to you your-

self? “I would do my best to comfort them and maybe give them some other options that they could take advantage of, junior Kristin Porcelli said. “I would advise them to look online for a school with a similar campus life and also has the same things that their dream school would have offered them.”

U GE IE *

Paul R. Wharton High School

20150 Bruce B. Downs Blvd. Tampa, FL 33647

Volume 16 Issue 3

Photo illustration by • Mariah Henderson

Bunny Love - Senior Connie Ellis kisses her white rabbit, Yukiko, her favorite out of her three bunnies: Momiji, Yukiko, and Lightning. Ellis chose the name, Yukiko, because it means snow child in Japanese and she has a fondness of Japanese manga.

Critter companions create comfort By Kelly peretz Feature editor

“I

feel safe when I come home because I know it’s not an empty house,” said Connie Ellis, senior and owner of three bunnies. Animals can be very valuable companions; a sense of security, a feeling of love, a shoulder to cry on, and a trusted friend. “It’s relaxing to just pet them, take time to chill and bond and love something that depends on me,” she said. Friendships with animals are historically significant as well. Franklin Delano Roosevelt and his Scottish terrier Fala, Shaggy and his Great Dane Scooby, Dorothy and her cairn terrier Toto and Ted and Curious George all have close relationships. Tampa psychiatrist Dr. Valerie MacLeod specializes in animal therapy and

*Jungle life letter photos courtesy of: Dr Valerie MacLeod, Mariah Henderson, Merrill Connor, Marcie Scholl and Kimberly Phinney respectively.

uses her 16-month old Golden Retriever, humans. Dogs are best at tuning into huAnnie, as a way to better communicate man emotions,” MacLeod said. “She’s with her patients. been a real asset and I can’t imagine my “Annie’s role is to help all of my clients, practice without her.” regardless of their ages, feel comfortable, It just proves that true friends can come to feel safe, and to know that being here in all shapes, sizes, and even species. is a good idea,” MacLeod said. “She gives Even though they may not walk on two everyone that comes to my office the feel- legs and have opposable thumbs, aniing that they are mals can try to take care of their loved.” owners when they know Animal therowners need a “She gives everyone that comes their apy is a spelittle extra love. to my office the feeling that cial type of Kimberly Phincounseling ney, English they are loved.” that involves teacher and an animal yearbook advispresent with er, said, “When the psychiamy mom had Dr. Valerie Macleod trist and clicancer in 2009, I psychiatrist ent during was far away from the session. The home and terrified. animal essentially On days when I was provides a safe and most down, Nina warmer environment. Grace, my little white “She gets the wonderful feelpit bull, would follow me ing that she can be safe with humans, everywhere in the house. She’d nuzzle that she will be treated well,” MacLeod me out of bed when I couldn’t get up and said. bring toys to me to try to lift my spirits.” Dogs are not the only type of animal “I love my German Shephard named used in therapy. MacLeod has heard of Bear; she is giving of unconditional love cats and pot-bellied pigs being used as of a great companion, said Marcie Scholl, therapy animals, however, she prefers drop out prevention specialist. dogs. “When I’m coming home, she sits near “Dogs, unlike other ani- the door, waiting for me. She’s who I talk mals, have been made to when I need help. She loves her family to be partners to and she’s got my back, just like I’ve got

hers.” Pets can save their owner’s lives in more ways than one. Merrill Connor, English teacher, says her nine-pound yorkie, The Great Gatsby saved her by discovering a snake in her house. “One evening, Gatsby went to the front door, which usually means he ‘needs’ to go outside. As I gathered his leash, I noticed that he was sniffing ardently around a metal plant stand. ‘Another lizard,’ I thought. However, when I bent down to put on Gatsby’s leash, I saw a small snake with intricately patterned markings,” Connor said. “How did Gatsby save my life? He found it first, before I could have a heart attack.” After being trapped in a confined space with teenagers all day, a companion that doesn’t talk back, respects and loves unconditionally is a much welcomed alternative. Harvey Keyes, history teacher, said, “As I try to explain to some of my students when the subject of pets come up, if we were on the Titanic, and there was only one seat left on the row boat for that student or my two dachshunds, they would be an ice cube pretty quick.”

FEATURE

Feb. 11, 2013

Predator

Roses are red, violets are blue...

I love you man! I love you, too! “I think people shouldn’t make such a big deal out of it. STAFF WRITER There is nothing wrong with guys being close. Like, why do They spend every weekend to- people think it is okay for girls gether. They think of each other to be like that, but not guys? I before they think of themselves think it’s stupid that people will and, above all, they’re stuck to- overreact about it. My opinion is gether like glue. that there’s nothing wrong with Thinking about a relation- it,” Keara Quenneville, sophoship, aren’t you? Well, you’re a more, said. little off. This isn’t any typical What makes a bromance, “a romance; it’s a bromance. bromance”? There have to be “A bromance is when two or certain qualifications in order more guys have a close friend- to even consider that you could ship with each other and spend have a bromance on your hands. a lot of time together. It’s good “In order for it to be a broto see guys who can depend on mance, they have to be really their guy friends to be there for close and act like brothers. They them,” Sharda Nelson, junior, hang out and make slightly scansaid. dalous Today, jokes to bromances each oth“In order for it to be a bromance, er. Scott are everywhere. In they have to be really close and S o l l a z z o fact, it has (junior ) act like brothers.” become and Alex more and M o n t more acLaura arose g o m e r y ceptable junior ) junior (have to have a a full on bromance bromance with your best bud- for sure,” Laura Arose, junior, --your brother from another said. mother. It used to be that it In some instances, girlfriends was only okay for girls to have find themselves like a third sleepovers, but now guys have wheel because their boyfriends all-nighters filled with Xbox and have such a strong relationship other dude-like fun. with their bro-best friend(s).

BY PAIGE RODERICK

Photo courtesy of • Judy montgomery FAB FIVE FOR LIFE - Fab Five members from left to right: Alex Montgomery, JC Ulbrich, Thomas Tonelli, Nick Rogers, Scott Sollazzo, Tyler Langston, and honorary member Micah Warren reinact their annual homecoming picture. These seven friends established their bromance in 2010 (Sophomore Joey Porter is not pictured). “Well, I think it’s very great that he has a bromance! His best friend is so sweet and funny, and I have fun with the both of them. I don’t feel like I have to share him at all. Kyle (Gilleon, junior) divides him time between us perfectly,” Allison DePalma, junior, said.

Now having a bromance is completely okay, but how far can a bromance go before it’s considered a romance? “A lot is okay as long as they’re comfortable with their sexuality! Hugs and winks are okay, but not kisses. That’s a little too far! Then you know it’s not just a

bromance, but a romance,” Kelli Carlson, junior, said. No matter if your bromance has been going strong for years or if it’s beginning to bloom like the upcoming spring flowers, it’s clear that bromances have added a new meaning to the definition of love.

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HEALTH

Predator

Feb. 11, 2013

Healthy or harmful:

Truth behind health myths revealed BY Jessie Savedge staff writer

“I heard that if you…” Just because you heard it, doesn’t make it true. You can’t always trust what you hear on the street. “I think it’s good to drink lots of water is good,” Tori DeFranco, senior, said, “because it kills toxins in your body and keeps you hydrated and healthy.” It is believed by many that drinking tons of water will help you lose weight. This is not true. While drinking water helps your body function properly and flush out wastes, it does not replace proteins you need from food sources. It may help you avoid overeating but it is not a replacement for food. “You need to maintain a balanced diet,” Timothy Kocher, HOPE teacher, said. When trying to lose weight, many cut meat out of their diets thinking that eating vegetables is better for them. However, this isn’t entirely true. “Not eating meat is stupid,” Shannon Clark, senior, said, “because if you don’t have the protein your metabolism will go up making it easier for you to put on weight.” While eating your greens is important to your health, meat provides a lot of protein you need to stay healthy as well Meat has iron, which gives you energy and helps you think. It also helps to prevent you from

getting sick. If you’re set on a vegetarian diet, try to get an iron supplement from beans, tofu, eggs, soy, or dairy products. “Stretching is vital before and after extensive physical activity because it allows the muscles to relax,” Ryan Wolf, senior, said. Many athletes are told to stretch before they exercise so they don’t get hurt. However, stretching beforehand doesn’t really do much, unless the stretches help get your blood pumping. Something like a quick sprint helps loosen up your muscles, as opposed to a slow floor stretch. “There’s no way to spot reduce,” Kocher said. “You’re not going to just lose in your belly, you’re going to lose in your whole body.” Everyone wants to get rid of belly fat, but crunches won’t necessarily do the trick. Depending on your body fat percentage, no matter how much you work your abs, they won’t be visible until you lose the actual body fat. In order to do this, you have to do cardio exercises. “Girls have different hormones than guys,” David Mitchell, weight trainer, said. “They’re not going to get big bulky muscles like guys.” A lot of girls fear the weights at the gym because they don’t want huge muscles like a boy, but weight lifting doesn’t necessarily do that. It is easier for men to increase their muscle because they have

club editor

Calling all chocolate lovers. Multiple studies show positive and healthy benefits to eating chocolate. The catch is that only dark chocolate holds all the beneficial nutrients. Dark chocolate has a wide range of benefits. The seed that it comes from, the cacao, is packed with plant based nutrients, so chocolate with a higher percentage of cacao has less sugar and more of the chocolate taste. Cacao beans come from all over the world, but 70 percent of cacao used comes from Africa. This bean grows in a pod-like form in cacao trees. So chocolate can be considered a plant and plants are healthy, right? “The good news doesn’t really help because I don’t like dark chocolate. I like milk chocolate,” freshman Katie Rosica said. Dark chocolate contains antioxidants, which are the nutrients that protect the body from

illness and promotes a healthy heart. “I found out about dark chocolate benefits on askmen.com,” Nick Veinger, sophomore, said. “I started going bonkers. Right away I went to Publix and bought two Hershey’s dark

Heart beat

BY MARIELLE GOMEZ health editor

If you’re happy, you’re healthy

Illustration by • carin Coursey about 20-30 times the amount of testosterone that women have. This being said, there is nothing wrong with doing a little weight lifting. In fact, it’s actually beneficial and helps you lose weight. “I would say that even girls can benefit from weight lifting because it burns a surprising amount of calories as well as allowing one to strengthen muscles that can’t be exercised in just cardio workout,” Wolf said. After a hard workout, many think a nice hot bath will make them less sore, but ice water is

the way to go. “An ice bath will help you cool down and reduce any swelling that may have occurred after working out,” Clark said. Exercise opens blood vessels. You get sore when wastes like lactic acid get to your muscles through those open vessels. Cold water helps the vessels close, so not as much waste gets through, minimizing soreness. You can’t always trust what you hear. It’s always important to research what you hear before you put it in action.

Chocolate lovers receive good news BY MAnal Benyamine

chocolate bars after reading the article.” Recent short-term studies in the Aug. 27 issue of The Journal of the Medical Association, the University of Germany, reported that dark chocolate has positive results on the heart and the

Photo illustration by • MAriah Henderson Love for chocolate - Students like Nicole Keesee, junior, enjoy Hershey’s chocolate. Chocolate is proven to be healthy, but with a catch: it must be dark.

whole cardiovascular system. It has reduced blood pressure and increased blood flow throughout the heart. “Knowing that chocolate is healthy makes eating it better,” Alyssa Weymann, sophomore, said. Chocolate also has other properties like the instant feel-good mood of which is linked to the endorphins that the chocolate releases. “Chocolate is like happiness in a cute little consumable form,” senior Ramona Huertas said. Now with all of this positive information about chocolate, keep in mind that moderation is important so do not go swimming in a fountain of chocolate like Augustus Gloop. “I try to restrict how many sweets I eat including dark chocolate,” Ann Sofia, reading teacher, said. “I am fussy about what brand of chocolate I eat. I would rather have one square that is really good than a Hershey’s bar.”

There’s no doubt that being in a relationship can be one of the most amazing feelings in the world, but there’s also no denying that relationships can bring out the uglier side of people. Relationships can make you feel like you’re on top of the world, but they can also weigh you down with unnecessary stress. So, the big question is: is it healthier to be single or in a relationship? Relationships take effort and both people must make sacrifices and compromise in order to have a healthy relationship. However, relationships do crumble, and sometimes they don’t have the most graceful falls. They can get nasty, creating stress that isn’t necessary, especially now that we need to focus more on grades and getting into a good college. Single. There are two ways to view this word: a blessing or a curse. Some of us view being single as being unwanted or unworthy (especially around holidays like Valentine’s Day), but others view it as a sacred period of time to focus on themselves. It’s definitely easier to keep up with things in life when you’re not in a relationship (like schoolwork and extracurricular activities), but that doesn’t mean that being in a relationship makes those things impossible. Being in a relationship and being single both have their benefits and drawbacks. If the relationship brings stress and it’s difficult to find the balance between your special someone and friends, school and everything else in your life, maybe a relationship is not the best idea for you. When it comes to deciding whether being in a relationship is healthier than being single or vice versa, take into consideration how happy you feel. If you’re not happy, you’re not healthy.

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cENTERS

Feb. 11, 2013

get

CES SHOWS OFF TECHNOLOGICAL ADVANCES By brandon goldman co-editor-in chiEf CES AT A GLANCE Every January, over 100,000 techjunkies from all across the globe flock to Las Vegas, Nev., to experience the largest technology expo in the world, the Consumer Electronics Show (CES). The show, which is hosted at the Las Vegas Convention Center, allures over 2000 companies looking to display and show off state-of-the-art advancements in the technology spectrum including computers, cell phones, TVs, video games, audio and countless other gadgets. Throughout the five day convention (Jan 7-11), many gadgets hit the market with praise from the general public including new advancements with highdefinition televisions and cutting edge cell phone software. “I think it’s cool to read about all this new technology coming out to see what is going to be popular this year and what I’m going to want to buy,” Joey Arose, junior, said.

CELL PHONES In a world heavily dominated by Google’s Android and Apple’s iOS phones, Sony surprised attendees with the Xperia Z phone which offers a 5-inch high definition touchscreen and quad-core processing (making it one of the fastest phones available). The Xperia Z also features a 13-megapixel which takes advantage of the new photo and video options possible with the latest Android OS, 4.1 “Jellybean.” Also at CES, Mozilla, the makers of the Firefox web browser, announced

next big thing.” Similarly, the Samsung UN85S9 claims similar 4K resolutions but adopts an “easel” design to appear like the 85-inch screen is floating in midair. The UN85S9 and L9300, like many other TVs at the show, are advancing online capability through cloud-based applications for services like Hulu, Netflix and Amazon’s Instant Video service. New screen technologies are also being used by companies like Sony and Samsung including glasses-free 3D content viewing and crystal-clear, low-energy consuming OLED and LED screens.

VIDEO GAMES The Consumer Electronics Show has never been known to boast extraordinary innovations in the video game world (that is usually saved for the E3 show in June), but Razer, a well-known controller manufacturer for Xbox 360 users, stumped game-gurus with the Razer Edge that serves a dual purpose as a full-fledge 10-inch tablet running COMPUTERS & Photo COURTESY • carla januska Windows 8 and a more than capable mobile OPERATING SYSTEMS A new view -A Samsung booth at a CES event displays their television, gaming console. Throughout the the Samsung UN85S9. The event was held on Jan. 8-11 in Las Vegas, The Edge, which will show, individuals were NV. start at $999, will offer introduced to countless the ability to play video new addendums to games via a cloud-based Microsoft’s latest operating system, Windows 8. Most computers their plans to create a mobile phone server so there is no need to have to displayed at CES take advantage of operating system to compete with lug around game disks or cartridges. Razer will also manufacture Microsoft’s plans to make Windows 8 Google and Apple. peripherals for the Edge such as “finger-friendly” by offering advanced TELEVISIONS physical controllers, a dock to plug touchscreens to create an easy to use When it comes to the next generation into an HDTV for console-like interface for any individual. Lenovo launched the IdeaCentre Horizon 27 of TV screen technology, Toshiba and gaming, as well as a keyboard dock to seamlessly integrate an all-in-one Samsung stole the spotlight at the to turn this tablet into an ergonomic computer with a 27 inch touchscreen show. On the first day of the expo, mobile computer. that can be used like an oversized Toshiba announced the L9300 84inch TV that boasts a mindboggling UP AND COMING tablet. TECHNOLOGIES Lenovo hopes their new lineup HD resolution of 3840 x 2160 which “2013 will be the year of not only 4K of computers can be utilized in is made capable by the latest 4K content, but smart watches as well. the classroom to improve outdated resolution technology. “Last year was all about putting I am not really all that interested in technologies similar to those developed in the Smart Board to get students 3D HDTVs in the home, which as using a smart watch, but it seems to you know isn’t turning out to be be the latest trend,” DiFranco said. involved in their studies. “I don’t really like Windows 8 since such a big deal after all,” David “Think integrating key functions of I have a desktop but I think it could DiFranco, technology reviewer and a smart phone or MP3 player into a be used by teachers since it focuses on founder of GearPop.com, explained watch, and you have the smart watch. touch screens which would be perfect in an interview with Predator. “4K is I’m not sure if this market will fully for the Smart Board,” Najee Pearson, something we should begin to shift catch on, but it’s definitely something our focus toward, as it really is the I will keep my eyes on.” junior, said.

Apple

By HALEY GONZAL online-editor-in c

The first succ computer was m 1953. The first was made 23 yea Although Appl place to an alt over 60 years ago a force to be reck The company ca first storage dev 2001 and named iPod was able to (GB) of data whe and its newest to hold 160 GB distorting the ver of the original iP When Apple with the iPod, o bought in the fir nearing the sum iPod was grow with over 3 mil companies were on the profit-m versions of the iP

SPREAD

Feb. 11, 2013

Honda creates new,human-like robot By olivia mahanor COLLEGE EDITOR When the brand Honda comes up in a casual conversation, in your head you're probably thinking of reasonably- priced, mid-sized sedan, not the world's most advanced humanoid robot. Honda engineers have taken their brand to a whole new level by designing ASIMO, the world's Most Advanced Humanoid Robot. ASIMO is the result of 20 years of humanoid robot research. "I didn't know Honda made anything besides cars; this robot seems like a lot of time went into making ASIMO a reality," Mitchell Hartnell, junior, said. Standing at 4’ 3” and weighing 119 pounds, ASIMO's body is made of magnesium alloy covered with a plastic resin. This makes ASIMO extremely durable and light weight. ASIMO’s main source of power can be found in his backpack. His power source is a rechargeable 51.8 volt lithium ion battery that weighs 13 pounds. On one single charge ASIMO is ready to function for an hour. "ASIMO sounds fabulous. It's amazing how far technology has come where engineers can make a robot that can be so alive," Kim Abidir, junior, said. ASIMO is great for anything needed

done whether it's picking things up around the house or holding a brief conversation, ASIMO can do both. It may be strange to think about this robot as being almost human but with the ability to recognize someone's face, reach for and grasp objects and climb stairs without actually looking like a robot is pretty impressive. "I think that ASIMO could be the start of something amazing. Robots could help humans do things that we cannot; they could help handicap people or do jobs too dangerous for humans to do," Gysel Calderon junior, said. It doesn't stop there. ASIMO also has a neck, shoulder, elbow, wrist, crotch, ankle and knee joints. ASIMO is equipped with four fingers, one being a thumb to grasp objects. "I'm concerned of what people can build robots into. ASIMO has fingers and joints. To me, that's odd but, at the same time, pretty cool that engineers can build such robots," Kallie Gollicher, junior, said. Unfortunately, ASIMO is not something you can ask for your birthday or any holiday, because he is not for sale. If you're itching to get ASIMO, you can visit asimo.honda. com and find out when ASIMO will be visiting your town. The Honda brand will no longer just be associated with cars, thanks to ASIMO.

Photo COURTESY • WRK-ROBOTS KRT PHOTOGRAPH / AMERICAN HONDA VIA DALLAS MORNING NEWS A WAVE INTO THE FUTURE -ASIMO stands with Stephen Keeney, ASIMO North American project leader. ASIMO’s latest phase finished in 2007 which allowed it to communicate with other ASIMOs and detect motion more efficiently.

e inc. leads in innovations

LEZ chiEf/ news editor

cessful high level made by IBM in Apple computer ars later. le came in second ternate company o, Apple has been koned with. ame out with the vice for music in d it the iPod. The o hold 5 gigabytes en it first arrived t model is able of data without ry popular design Pod. e first came out only 125,000 were rst year. However mmer of 2004, the wing in demand llion sold. Other rushing to get in making their own Pod.

In 2006, SanDisk released the SanDisk SDMX1 - SanDisk's first personal media player. It was a competitor to the iPod but didn’t become nearly as popular with Apple selling 42 million iPods that year alone. Two years later Zune was released by Microsoft. With the large screen and the rectangular shape, the Zune strongly resembled the iPod. It could hold 4 or 8 GB in the first models. Although neither the Zune nor the SDMX1 were able to take down Apple’s iPod there has been more competition and “copycats” in the past few years. In 2007, the first iPhone was released with full talk, text, video, camera and music playing abilities. The iPhone also featured “app” capabilities which allowed users to download applications from the App Store, by Apple, for little to no fee. When the iPhone first came out there were already hundreds of apps available for download. The first release of the iPhone

had 1.12 million units sold in the first year according to Apple. As more iPhone models were released, millions more were sold. Within the first weekend of release, more than 5 million units of the iPhone 5 were sold. With so many units sold, companies were eager to compete to gain some of the revenue Apple was hogging. Samsung released two phones in 2012 that are stereotyped as Apple copycats: the Galaxy Nexus and the Galaxy S3. Samsung’s phones, like Apple, feature full talk, text, camera, application and music playing capabilities. However, the two brands differ in one major way: their processors. Samsung runs off Android power whereas Apple uses iOS. Both systems run smoothly and both phones work well; just because there are similarities between the phones doesn’t mean the companies are trying to copy one another. Apple has been ahead in the technology race for years but other companies are striving to catch up.

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Design by Ashley Benjamin

OPINION

12 Feb. 11, 2013 PREDATOR

Predator

‘Shut up and read the fine print’...

Avoid privacy policy mass hysteria EDITORIAL

BRANDONGOLDMAN MARLENEMIRANDA Editors-in-chief YVONNEBERTOVICH Managing editor KELLYPERETZ Feature editor HALEYGONZALEZ Online Editor-in-chief / 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

wareness is among the most useful of attributes. One can only hope to become aware with time, effort and scrutiny applied to the potential trickery or disillusionment in the surrounding environment. In an age where privacy is becoming less and less absolute due to a multitude of social networks for teens and hip adults to participate in, the precept of awareness is dwindling when, in actuality, it should be multiplying. Recent revamps to the privacy policies of Instagram and its now parent-company Facebook have left users confused and upset. Although the issue has been resolved, for now, in that the previously-standing non-problematic (or otherwise ignored) privacy policies have been put back into effect, Instagram still plans on enacting its right to utilize its user’s photos if they so choose, which is argued to be legally sound. Even if the choppy water surrounding the one of many info and photo sharing programs has calmed, or perhaps people have just lost interest, it still should cause the questioning of one's digital privacy as a whole. While it would be incredibly easy to blame social network companies or other databasetype programs that house personal info for "invading" the privacy of their users, or "attempting" to, as seen with the "Instagram Scandal,” companies cannot be blamed for down-right recklessness. If users, especially teens, do not want something personal shared or have doubts of the security of a program, website

Illustration by • Carin coursey

or database, they should simply not disclose of it. It seems as though self restraint in the wonderful US of A is becoming rarer at a fast rate. A rate faster than the unnecessary flapping of jaws or the incessant typing of grubby fingers overzealously spilling secrets is becoming common. This apparent lack of restraint by some is not to blame, however, in incidences of hacking or fraud but should be practiced whenever and wherever possible. Of course, how can the posting of a picture of a sleeping puppy in a bucket or a gourmet

Twinkie disclose any deep, dark secrets. If Instagram liked either photo enough, it could legally take it and sell it to anyone willing to pay. Bingo. Problem. As stated before though, this is really only the tip of the iceberg. The greater implications of a harmless little photo-app claiming right to its users’ content should be a lesson to everyone. Users should be completely and entirely aware of every nook and cranny of any website or program that has their information, no matter how mere. This means spending a little more time reading critical in-

formation contained in policies, and a lot less time jaw-flapping or typing away. Becoming aware, in a broad sense of the word, could cure many, many ails of the current, digital age. Companies will never have a chance to take advantage, and customers and users alike can be indelibly put back in control of their own information and of course, privacy. It will be easily seen, too, that the figurative water while social networking or surfing the Web will be inscrutably calm, cool and collected as will the disposition of the users.

ROVING REPORTER: How confident do you feel in your privacy online and on apps?

Staff writers JESSIESAVEDGE JOSEPHPAREDES MADISONGIARRIZZO CJPOTTER AMANDAKIDD CATHYPAHL PAIGERODERICK MARINAJANKOVIC Photography co-editors SCOTTSOLLAZZO ALEXMONTGOMERY Photographers MARIAHHENDERSON GIGIJACKSON Adviser TERRYSOLLAZZO Phone Number (813) 631-4710 ext. 264 Check out our website! whspredator.wordpress.com Follow us on Twitter! @WHSpredator

“Pretty confident, I don’t really share anything.”

“Fairly confident, not that I have many opinions dealing with the subject.”

Katelyn Diramo, freshman

Austin Kahn, sophomore

“I feel partly uncomfortable due to the fact that there are many ways to hack onto someone’s account.” Mikaela Barber, senior

“I don’t feel like they’re very secure. I just don’t put out personal information.” Shawn Jones, senior

Pr eda tor staf f publishes 2012-13 editorial, adver tising policies

he newspaper informs students about events, influences its readers through responsible editorials, entertains through features, and brings buyer 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

through thorough and responsible reporting. Editorials reflect views of the staff and do not represent 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 right to edit letters for poor taste, space, libel, and grammar. These changes will not affect the content or meaning behind the story. Ad rates are available by calling (813)631-4710 ext. 264. Advertising which promotes

illegal products as labeled by Florida law, opposes any religion, is written in bad taste, includes racial comments, or which includes false statements will not be accepted. The Editorial Board has the right to refuse any such ad. Predator is a member of the Florida Scholastic Press Association and the Southern Interscholastic Press Association.

oPINION

Predator

Feb. 11, 2013

Say no to public displays of affection Yvonne Bertovich

Managing Editor/Editorial Editor

arvin Gaye is not at Wharton giving any sultry serenades. Rose petals are not being gingerly strewn about by winged babies. There may be a gentle, pheromone-ridden breeze that reeks of cologne, but ther e is no surrounding sea of 1,000 candles flickering with allure. Nor should students always follow the momentary yearning of their hearts to overpower the cognition of their brain. Sure, some saps say, “The heart wants what the heart wants,” but school is no Fifty Shades of Grey. The intensity and frequency of PDA (Public Displays of Affection) occurring on a daily basis at Wharton are simply disgusting. The constant fondling, caressing, and other unnamed actions need to find another place to fester; most certainly not in the middle of the hallway, under the stairs, on the stairs, against the railing, against the lockers, against the wall, next to the bathrooms, in the bathrooms, next to a garbage can, nearly in a garbage can, in the 100 hall garden, or anywhere else they seem

ILLUSTRATION BY • CARIN COURSEY to be unnecessarily aroused in the public eye of other students. It may be necessary to refurbish a virtue often taught in earlier schooling to keep the often R-rated relations at bay. This virtue, although clearly ignored now is, “keep your hands to yourself.” However, one quick walk,

even a quick glance at the scenes that transpire in our school, it can be easily seen that hands are rarely the problem. This mantra should be edited to be more inclusive and explicit, more like, “keep everything and anything that is attached to you to yourself and or within their appropriate orifices at all

times.” Really, it’s a promise. No one wants to see that. It is also evident that many, many people would like these heart-driven beings to please get a room. To clarify, a “room” is not a seemingly private set of lockers, or trashcan, or section of wall near the lunchroom.

Unfortunately for us all, we can still see you. We’re tired of gagging every five feet as we walk through the halls and having our eyes nearly boil over and pour out from their sockets. As far as following one’s heart goes, go for it, by all means. This does not mean every kind of affection should be outlawed, just keep it PG, at least while on school grounds. If a Disney character would blush or scoff at the mere thought of it, don’t do it. Really, school is meant for learning, not a hook-up spot. Scientifically, one’s heart is only a muscle and carries no emotional processing whatsoever. The only impulses followed while at school should be commands from the brain and no other organs or appendages. So, couples, actually, everyone, whether it is just Tuesday, or Valentine’s Day, or your 12 day anniversary, “Keep everything and anything that is attached to you to yourself and or within their appropriate orifices at all times,” to be concise. Imaginary Marvin Gaye will appreciate it, other students will appreciate it, heck, everyone will appreciate it. If the yearnings arise, smooch a piece of pizza or something. Caress your textbook. Let knowledge be your significant other.

Photos airbrush away self-esteem Marlene Miranda

best step to portray women who look unhealthily thin to model. The faces of Vogue, Chanel, and Dior have been tweaked to look magine taking a glance at healthy. Rib cages and shoulders sticka magazine rack and seeing a short, stubby, acne ing out, frail body frames, pale ridden girl on the front complexions and excess “peach fuzz” like body hair (a sympcover of Vogue. tom caused by eating disorders) Hard to do, isn’t it? You cannot be a role model to are zapped away. Suddenly, it is young women without being healthy to be 5’9” and weigh 90 lbs. beautiful. That is what you are supposed You cannot be beautiful without clear skin, full hair, lined to look like. Basing staneyes, an hourdards of beauty glass body shape, shapely And even when you’re on an image that has been altered lips and legs that close to appearing from truth ruins seem to go on goddess-like, you a person’s percepforever. You cannot sell cannot grace the cover tion. And as long makeup or pitch of a magazine without as women --- from middle schoolers a perfume when you look “aver- being porcelain perfect. to housewives --carry these soulage.” And even when you’re close sucking, self-esteem incinerato appearing goddess-like, you tors underneath their arms and cannot grace the cover of a mag- take them as life instructions, no azine without being porcelain body revolution will ever come. The average female can see up perfect. Airbrushing and Photoshop to 600 advertisements throughout the day. have become so common to us. She will grow up flipping Photographers and editors take women who are already through TV channels and by beautiful by society’s standards the time she’s 17, she will have and give them extensive plastic viewed over 250,000 commercials centering around beauty. surgery... digitally, at least. These companies will give her They will remove birthmarks and wrinkles, cinch in waists, a standard that is impossible to enlarge breasts and muscles, reach. It is easy for the media to make color cheeks, thin thighs, with simple pulls and drags in Pho- someone feel badly for her aptoshop until the reader starts to pearance in order to sell tanning think that image is what an at- lotions, diet pills, lipstick, hair dye, eye liner, and nail polish. tractive person looks like. Companies can not make It does not just stop at making money selling pills that you can women appear thinner. Most fashion magazine editors swallow to make you more inrealize that it would not be the telligent.

Co-editor-in-chief

PHOTO BY • AL DIAZ / MIAMI HERALD / MCT CAMPUS BRUSHING AWAY IMPERFECTIONs - Magazines use airbrushing, makeup and Photoshop to hide their models’ scars and blemishes. By fixing the models’ faults, the new image of perfection is lowering girls’ self-esteem around the world. They cannot profit off of face creams and lipsticks that will make you kinder. So what would be the right thing to do? Simple. Hire everyday people to be the faces of cosmetics, to model clothing that the average women will buy

Many women have the common sense to realize that advertisements and magazines do not portray the average person. But that does not mean that altering the image of beauty is ineffective. The fashion and beauty industry have the power to act as

a positive influence for young women. They have the power to portray a variety of people in a certain light, to give encouragement to young girls who barely get to see other women who look like them. And they need to.

entertainment

14 Feb. 11, 2013

Predator

DC Universe Online sales continue to soar with ‘Home Turf’ downloadable content BY WILL BARNES

ENTERTAINMENT EDITOR

If you have ever wanted to soar above the clouds with Superman or cause riots in the streets alongside The Joker, DC Universe Online (DCUO) is your gateway to live your dream. Launched on Jan 11, 2011, this revolutionary Massive Multiplayer Online (MMO) game has been going strong since, and with the latest Downloadable Content (DLC), sales are sure to keep going up, up and away. DCUO is an online action MMO for both the PC and PlayStation 3 that lets you create your own hero or villain, choose your superpowers and become the next legend in the DC Universe. As a hero, you can choose to be mentored by one of the “Big Three” flagship heroes: Superman, Batman, and Wonder Woman. However, if you choose to live your life on the other side of the law, you can be mentored by The Joker, Lex Luthor or Circe. In addition to choosing your mentor, you get a choice of nine powers: Fire, Ice, Earth, Mental, Gadgets, Sorcery, Nature, Electricity, or Light (the

latter of which enlists you in either the Green Lantern Corps or Sinestro Corps depending on your faction). As you progress through the game, you can explore the massive cities of Metropolis and Gotham which are full of crime to either stop or commit. You can also be called for missions named “Alerts” that take you to iconic locations from Smallville to Arkham Asylum to even the moon! At the maximum level (30) you can also team up with seven other friends to reclaim the Batcave, Superman’s Fortress of Solitude and Wonder Woman’s godly home of Themyscira from the grasp of the game’s primary villain: Brainiac. An advantage to these raids is the powerful gear and weapons you can obtain. In addition to computer controlled enemies, you can also fight other players in both arenas and the open cities, which adds a whole new level of immersion. Speaking of immersion, the newest DLC “Home Turf” allows you to buy and decorate your own base. Bases aren’t just for decoration, however. Each base has a “Mainframe” that you can upgrade that will help you in battle. Once upgrad-

screenshot by • will barnes

THE NEXT LEGEND IS YOU - DC Universe Online launched on Jan. 11, 2011. It now has released 23 major updates and six batches of downloadable content. ing, you can call down Orbital Strikes (a huge laser that will hit an enemy), supply drops (that will restore health and power), even henchmen and sidekicks. The DLC also adds new single player content at iconic locations like Steelworks and ACE Chemicals. The only disadvantage is the bugs in the system. There always seems to be something to complain about that takes away

extent. You can buy DLCs (like Home Turf) for $10 on the in-game Marketplace, or subscribe for $15 a month that comes with all DLC and a slew of benefits, which include an unlimited cash cap, a monthly allowance of replay tokens that you can use to reset content and a legendary vendor that sells exclusive items to improve your character.

from the game. With the new DLC, there were constant resets of the PS3 server, but that is the price you have to pay when you play a game that is updating itself at least 12 times a year. If you want to immerse yourself in a world that appears much better than ours, or just have a new game to play, DCUO is for you, especially since it’s free to download and play to an

No question: Ruzzle tops charts, connects friends BY haley gonzalez

NEWS EDITOR/ONLINE EDITOR AND CHIEF

screenshot by • aly damminger PUZZLES TAKEN TO THE NEXT LEVEL - Ruzzle was first released last March. This word wham of a game has taken the nation by storm in just a few weeks.

ROLL IT ! BY WILL BARNES

ENTERTAINMENT EDITOR

A new year comes with new films. The pressure is on for the films that are released the first quarter of the year, for they will set expectations for the motion pictures that come out later this year. However, these two are sure to set the precedent for quality.

Scrabble, Words with Friends, and even the classic word search all come to mind for fan favorite word gaming applications. However, their spotlight is soon to fade to the background with new Ruzzle in the mix. Ruzzle, first released in March of 2012 by MAG interactive, has recently become a hit with over 11 million users. This application is a free, multi-player game run on a 4 by 4 board with a single letter in each s quare. Similar to the classic word search, users are required to find as many words on the board as possible. However, more alike Scrabble, the user gets points for each word made and additional points for double or triple point letters. The fact that the game is basically a combination

Safe Haven This is the “boy meets girl” film that moviegoers would anticipate to come out on Valentine’s Day, only with a twist. A woman moves into a small North Carolina town, reluctant to form any sort of personal relationships in the tight-knit town. As she grows close to a widowed store owner, her dark secrets come to haunt her. With romance for ladies and suspense for their male dates, “Safe Haven” is shaping up to be the perfect date movie. Based on the book by Nicholas Sparks and starring Josh Duhamel and Julianne Hough, this thrilling adaption moves into theaters Feb. 14.

of two popular games isn’t even the odd part. While a user can still find words going upwards, downwards, diagonally, or to either side users are allowed to make words in any combination as long as the letters touch by one corner. This makes for more possible combinations than one could imagine, all while trying to beat out both the two minute timer and his or her opponent. Many people rack up points by short, two to five letter words, which are the easiest to find. Despite the relief at actually finding these words, one soon realizes their worth is little. To gain higher scoring words one must use the feature of the double and triple point letters ( just like in Scrabble). These points are calculated in by taking the value of the actual word without the additional “special” points and multiplying it by 2 for a double

For Girls

point letter or by 3 for a triple point letter. Although at first these letters may not seem critical, one can see a huge difference between the plain value of 12 points and a 32 point increase when using the “special” letters. Despite its competitive nature and many point opportunities, Ruzzle has some downfalls. It often takes alot of time to load random opponents since the app only adds new game when using data or running off WiFi. The game also doesn’t take common English words that are found in most dictionaries and takes words that aren’t even classified as words. Even with those faults, this app is a highly entertaining game that can keep one going for hours in a fury to win as many games as possible against friends or strangers. All in all, Ruzzle is a great game that is worthy of a 5 out of 5 review.

A Good Day To Die Hard For Guys

The fifth installment in the Die Hard series, “A Good Day to Die Hard” will have action hero John McClane (Bruce Willis) travel to Moscow to help his son, Jack (Jai Courtney), an undercover CIA agent who is tracking down nuclear weapons. With the criminal underworld hot on their tails to obtain the powerful weapons, it’s up to the father and son duo to save the world. It’s a good day for theaters Feb. 14.

ENTERTAINMENT

Predator

Feb. 11, 2013

BLG returns to ‘Crazy World’ BY ALY DAMMINGER

PLUGGED IN

MUSIC EDITOR Some may say that once a band takes a hiatus, that band is gone for good… That is not always the case. In 2010, Boys Like Girls released their second studio album, Love Drunk. Several singles from that album were very successful as they maintained high positions on the Billboard’s chart (like “Love Drunk,” and “Two is Better Than One”). The band then went on a nationwide tour, but after the tour ended, Boys Like Girls seemed to vanish. “After we finished co-headlining the Bamboozle Roadshow, we went right into the studio to record our next album,” said Martin Johnson, lead vocalist and rhythm guitarist. “The boys and I felt that we were really starting to get our sound just right. Our fan base was growing, we were getting a ton of radio-play, and everything felt right. So, we recorded our third studio-album. But at that time, we all felt pretty discouraged with the end product. “During that year, a lot of bands like us seemed to be phasing out. So, we decided to trash that album completely. Then we spent a ton of time in the studio recording Crazy World.” It’s true. Radio stations were beginning to lose interest in the type of music Boys Like Girls was known for. Several stations requested that the band send them vocal-only versions of their newer tracks, so they could be put over a back-beat and played as a pop remix. Many

NEW YEAR, NEW MUSIC BY: Aly Damminger

Photo by • mariah henderson girls like bands - Tati Buford, junior, reads an interview of Boys Like Girls in a teen magazine. The band is to tour the country this year to promote their new album. people assumed the band broke up because they hadn’t heard from them in so long. During the hiatus, Johnson was reported writing for many other artists and the band’s original bassist, Bryan Donahue, chose to leave the band to pursue other interests. The boys were each involved in separate side projects, but Donahue refocused his attention completely. It wasn’t long before fans got word that he was gone for good. With no bassist, the band couldn’t release another album. Lucky for the band and their fans, Morgan Dorr stepped in to fill the void. With a rearranged line-up and some self-confidence, Boys

Like Girls released Crazy World on Dec 11. This record is unlike anything a band of this genre has done before. The LP was recorded in Tennessee and the track-listing really reflects that environment. In the past, Boys Like Girls was known to have a poppunk sound which was a little rougher, but Crazy World channels a light and carefree vibe. Most of the songs on the al-

bum are pretty slow and softsounding. The only track with a hint of the band’s old sound is entitled “The First Time.” The featured guitar is reminiscent of their previous records. To a listener who was expecting something close to the old BLG sound, this record falls short. Hopefully, in the future, the boys will expand upon their new sound and improve themselves for the next album.

Crazy World IS NOW AVAILABLE IT’S A LONG WAY TO THE TOP

Where: Walmart

COST:$10

CRAZY WORLD LACKS LITTLE DEPTH AND IS VERY DIFFERENT FROM THE BAND’S PREVIOUS SOUND

Music artists fake it to make it big BY Amanda kidd staff writer “Any schmo can get on stage and be a clown. You only have to be a trendsetter,” Danny Womack, intensive reading teacher, said. Ke$ha, Britney Spears, Enrique Iglesias, and Dev. What do all of the artists have in common? All have them have become famous without having any real talent. Today, artists only need to know how to dress, dance and move their mouth in time with the lyrics. “Music lately is bubble-gum crap with no substance and just has a catchy beat,” Tommy Dambrosio, junior, said. As lyrics rely less on emotion and more on what the label wants, the possibility of songs being full of provocative words and derogative statements has become more common. It’s difficult to find a song that just sticks to themes that really have an impact on society. “Today’s rap music portrays false scenerios to listeners,” Patrick McLaren, senior, said.

SCALE OF ROCK

Photo by • jose carlos fajardo/mct campus lip syncing like a pro - Britney Spears performs onstage in San Francisco, Calif. Spears is notorious for everything from lip syncing during performances to relying on voice-enhancing technology. “Juicy J, for example, raps about getting away with killing people and stealing drugs. It transports negative and improbable notions into the heads of children that don’t know any better.” Allowing artists to sing or rap about degrading topics

ANOTHER ONE BITES THE DUST

IT’S A LONG WAY TO THE TOP

both affects the music industry and takes a toll on society. Artists who rely on voiceenhancing technology create live shows that are not all that they could be or what fans expect them to be. The audience is not able to experience

STUCK IN THE MIDDLE WITH YOU

the vulnerability in the performer’s voice. All they hear is what the studio has perfected. “If an artist goes on stage and lip syncs, they lose that connection with their fans. Having fans experience a raw performance is what really counts in the music industry,” Womack said. Artists have changed their image and music style in order to grab attention. Rock bands leave their previous sound of hard beats to turn to pop music in an attempt to become more successful. The key to success in the music industry is creating the ideal moneymaker that all fans will enjoy listening to. This causes producers to focus more the artist’s physical features and less on the artist’s actual vocal ability. It’s pretty clear to see that in this decade, whether or not a person being signed to a record label can sing is no longer important. “Recording companies are what are causing the lack of talent these days. Artists need to stand up for what they believe and not change for anyone,” Womack said.

I WANNA ROCK

HELLA GOOD

The New Year has arrived. While some of our favorite musicians have taken to the studios in hopes of recording a crazy-successful album, some fairly newer artists have just begun to make their mark in the American music industry. Let’s take a look at Of Monsters and Men. The five-piece indie band from Iceland made their US debut at the end of 2012 with their first single, “Little Talks.” The track sold over one million copies by October despite the fact that the song was originally released a year before it actually became popular. Look out for their new single, “Mountain Sound,” which channels a sound similar to that of Mumford & Sons. Also in 2012, a pop-rap duo, Karmin broke into the music scene with “Brokenhearted.” Their second single, “Hello” made airway in late July and the video premiered in early August. Watch out: Karmin is to tour the US in 2013… In the meantime check out one of their many covers on YouTube including Chris Brown’s “Look at Me Now” and Nicki Minaj’s “Superbass.” Meet Macklemore. The rapper began releasing music in 2000. Since then, he released a mixtape, three EPs, and two albums without any mainstream support. In 2012, record labels got word. Since then, producers have tried to sign him, but Macklemore is persistent in creating everything on his own in order to keep things organic. The rapper, who is a recovering addict, writes his songs about issues that matter. His song “Same Love,” for instance, discusses gays and their rights. His current single, “Thrift Shop” has been huge in terms of both radio-play and rank. Cher Lloyd. She was featured on the seventh series of the UK’s X Factor alongside the famous One Direction. Lloyd, who auditioned at only 16, made it all the way to the semifinals before leaving the contest as the third runner-up. Despite the loss, Cher Lloyd has already begun to take the world by storm. In October 2012, her album Sticks and Stones was released to the US. That album featured two of her already-hit singles, “Want U Back” and “Oath” which both earned spots on the US Billboard Chart. 2013 is the start of a brand new year with brand new music, so be prepared.

16 Feb. 11, 2013

FEATURE

Predator

Relationships bloom senior year ing) a relationship affect my experience this year? Some people want a relationenior year, a time for ship senior year to have a date to questions: do I want prom, to keep from going crazy to go to college, where over applications, and someone am I going to go to with which to waste time while school, am I going to enjoying senioritis. Whereas, other people don’t stay close or go out of state? It’s also when one looks back on all want a relationship because the mistakes, all the triumphs they’d rather spend time with their friends, foand all the cus on their connecstudies, tions and fino n e “I think it is a great idea to have ish their h a s a girlfriend senior year because senior made bucket over you get to experience great list witht h e things together and know you out the p a s t have someone that always distracf o u r tion of a years in backs you up.” significant at Wharbrant wickersham other. ton. senior Senior In these Brant Wickerlong streams sham said, “I think it is of thoughts going a great idea to have a girlthrough seniors’ minds, friend senior year because you one of the nagging questions is whether it is right to begin a get to experience great things relationship your final year or together and know you have if it is time to break the tie be- someone that always backs you fore “the time comes” and ev- up.” Two: what will happen to our erybody is heading in different relationship after we graduate? directions. For this question there are In all reality, high school relationships rarely last forever, but many options. The first is to there are some important ques- stay together, whether you are tions one must answer before separated by a couple miles or making any changes to a rela- a couple thousand miles. The next is to follow each other to tionship status. One: how will having (or los- college and hope that you didn’t

BY haley gonzalez

Online editor-in-chief/ News editor

Photo illustration by • Alex montgomery senior year romance - Seniors Brant Wickersham and Kelly Rogowski share a moment at their lockers in between passing. Despite the risks of having a relationship senior year, the two decided to start dating.

give up your dream school for nothing. The last is to go your separate ways as friends, wishing each other the best of luck. “I think that everything that is meant to work out will work out!,” Senior Rachel Mitcham said, “ [Her boyfriend and she] have discussed it in the sense that we will try our best to make it work, but whatever happens, happens.” Mitcham and some seniors seem to follow the inspirational words of the characters Aly and Noah from Nicholas Sparks’ The Notebook. “And if in some distant place in the future we see each other in our new lives, I'll smile at you with joy and remember,” he said. The final question one must answer before deciding to start or break off a relationship is what will make me most happy this year. If having a new significant other will please you, go for it. If you think breaking up with your significant other is right, go right ahead. If you don’t know for certain, don’t do anything drastic. Enjoy your last year of high school because it is your last year before you enter “the real world” . “You have to live day by day and not worry to far in the future,” said Wickersham. “Or else you'll never get to experience life as it should be.”

Giles meets wife through ‘act of God’; remarkable love story to be shared est of bells. Then a year later at a college staff writer seminar at Ball State University, he saw her. “I had seen her across a line. f you were to choose a quote to describe the life I saw her name tag,” Giles said. of English teacher Paul “I thought, ‘If that was my head Giles, this quote from a year ago, I’d want to find out. The Notebook by Nicholas If she runs, I’m going to move Sparks would suit it quite well: on. If she doesn’t run, I’ll pursue “So, it’s not gonna be easy. It’s it.’” So Giles had decided to sit going to be really hard; we’re gonna have to work at this ev- down next to her and execute ery day, but I want to do that the line that had got him what because I want you. I want all of he wanted. “I’m looking for a wife this you, forever, everyday. You and week,” me… everyhe said. day.” “and I’d Giles is a walking ro“We hit it off. We connected like to get to know mance nove l — h a v i n g intellectually and emotionally.” you.” Harproposed to rington his wife four looked at days after he paul giles him as if met her. “When I met english teacher he were a Martian her, I knew,” that had Giles said. Giles went through a period just beamed down from outerin his life where relationships space. She stayed, however, her inner were not working out and he voice telling her that if she ran, was ready to settle down. He said he began talking she could be making the biggest to God, as he routinely did mistake of her life. After their first meeting, Giles throughout his life, and he asked and Harrington became insepaGod who he should marry. “If you pick them, I’ll learn to rable. They talked all through love them,” he had said to Him. the day and all through the And then a name popped into night. “We hit it off. We connected Giles’ head: Phyllis Harrington. He had never heard it before intellectually and emotionally,” and it didn’t even ring the faint- Giles said.

BY MARINA JANKOVIC

Photo courtesy of • paul giles an improbable romance - English teacher Paul Giles puts his arm around his wife, Phyllis, as they pose for a picture. The two met just four days before he asked for her hand in marriage.

On a Wednesday afternoon, Giles took Harrington out for pizza and proposed. He said that he thought that after she graduated, they should get married. Harrington agreed. For the next two years, Giles and Harrington maintained a long-distance relationship, since they lived in different states. They communicated over the

phone and saw each other only a few times. They got married the day after she graduated. “We were practically strangers when we got married,” Giles said. Their relationship started off rough, the first year of their marriage consisting of the two disagreeing over many issues, and getting into small arguments

and spats, but they learned to work it out by setting rules for each other to follow. Over the years, their relationship mellowed as they worked cooperatively and worked through issues together. They developed a stronger love for each other year after year. They have been married 33 years.

AUTOMOTIVE

Predator

Feb. 11, 2013

in the fast lane

By josh acierno automotive editor

Class could be better School is supposed to be a place of opportunity where you can learn and grow. There are the kids who like science, kids who like math and kids who like cooking. So what happens to all the kids who like getting their hands dirty with some good old engine oil, brake grease or differential fluid? What classes are offered to them to do what they love? The answer is none. There are few schools that offer classes that allow students to work on things such as engines, repair or to even learn the basic mechanics of a car. School always talk about how they want to provide opportunities to kids with all sorts of interests, but they fail to provide classes where students can learn about practical things like how engines work, how to diagnose problems associated with a car and how to repair it. It seems as if they don’t care about the grease monkeys who like to do the dirty work and, instead, only teach with the kids from white-collared families in mind. Cars are almost like a moving and functioning work of art. With thousands of parts on any given car, it takes years of experience to be able to tackle any major car replacements such as installing a new clutch to putting in a turbo charger or intake system. So how can kids who don’t have parents who are involved with cars, get themselves involved? It’d be pretty hard to do. Being a mechanic is a job like a plumber or electrician. It requires a special skillset that can only be acquired through personal experience and education. To understand how an engine works is one thing, but to be able to disassemble and put it back together is something completely different. Another benefit to automotive classes is the fact that it intrigues a students’ interest. Imagine that, classes where kids can’t wait to get to every day. Kids already dread coming to school every day to attend seven classes consisting of soporific classes like language, math and science because they’re not fun. Giving kids a class to do something they’re passionate about and love to do gives them motivation to come to school every day and something to look forward to in their school day. Other than a bit of money, what’s there to lose?

Photo illustration by • Scott SOLLAZZO high ride - Towering above every vehicle in the parking lot, Jacob Meier, senior, shows off his lifted Ford F-150. Meier plans on adding bigger tires in the future, as well as a winch. Meier says he enjoys the intimidation factor the truck adds to his personality.

Revving up some personality By kelly peretz feature editor

A 2007 Nissan Frontier roars into the parking lot and pulls into senior spot number 115. Out of the truck jumps senior Darby Frankfurth, 5-feet 2-inches tall. “I’m short, so for once I wanted to be big, so I asked for a truck,” Frankfurth said. Usually plagued by her short stature, riding in her truck brings a sense of power and a bird’s-eye view. “I can see over pretty much all other cars, which is a plus, since I can’t see over anybody my age,” Frankfurth said. Many students try to find a car as a way to showcase their personality. “I may be small but I’m big at heart like my truck,” Frankfurth said. Additionally, cars can be a medium for showcasing their owner’s holiday spirit. Frankfurth even decorates her truck for Christmas with bows on the

grill of her usually manly truck. Other girly accessories include the Abercrombie moose and Darby license plate. With so many makes and models, common cars often get lost in the crowd. However, that doesn’t seem to be a problem for senior Brant Wickersham’s 2012 Hyundai Veloster. “It’s as unique as me,” Wickersham said. “It’s just not the common thing; I’m not the common person.” The white Veloster gets 40 MPG and has an eco-mode to make the engine run more efficiently. The Veloster’s entertainment system contains a USB port to upload pictures and songs from his phone and can also run Pandora and Bluetooth. The Veloster has unexpected features such as a third door on the passenger’s side. Junior AJ Speranza loves his 2002 BMW 330ci convertible because it has been in his family for a long time. “I take really good care of it; it’s my baby,” he said.

Photo illustration by • Gigi Jackson fast and compact- CJ McGill, senior, shows his cool personality through his car. A direct reflection of McGill, the Ford is fast as is this point guard. Both Speranza and his car have been self-described as “sporty” which reflects his love for sports, especially lacrosse. One thing that makes Speranza’s car stand out is his customized license plate that reads “AJ LGS” Towering above all other vehicles in the student parking lot is senior Jacob Meier’s charcoal Ford F-150, with an eight-inch

lift and 37-inch wheels. “I like when people are afraid of me,” said the Wharton varsity linebacker. However, having the largest vehicle in the parking lot is just not enough for Meier. “I plan to get bigger tires, get a rack in the front, and a winch,” he said. “I like to own the road when I drive.”

Anything you can do, I can do better By josh acierno automotive editor Ever since men have roamed this earth, it has been in their nature to be better than everyone, man or woman, in everything they do. In today’s day and age, one of the many things for which men strive and at which they claim to be better, is driving. “Girls have to anticipate everything they do when they drive, and they worry more about texting and changing the music,” said senior Austin Eldein. It’s true. Insurance companies do give girls lower rates. Statistically speaking, girls are involved in less accidents and traffic violations every year. However, these statistics leave out some details. Details such as the fact that there are more male drivers and that guys tend to drive more miles every year compared to girls. “We’re more aggressive and like to speed,” said junior Guillermo De León. “That’s the only reason girls are considered better drivers. Someone who drives defensively is going to get in fewer accidents than someone trying to get where they’re going as quick as possible.”

Photo illustration by • Gigi Jackson boys vs. girls- Senior Tyler Langston critcizes junior Kylie Paul while she drives. Langston focuses on critiquing Paul’s driving so she can’t focus on the road. This re-enactment plays out daily as couples leave the parking lot. According to MSN and its auto section, the male to female ratio of traffic violations and road laws broken is above 1.00, maxing at 3.41 for reckless driving and making its way down to the lowest ratio, 1.53 for stop sign or signal violations. “Guys are always playing these video games where they can drive cars like Ferraris or

Lamborghinis. I think it makes them a little over confident in the real world,” said senior Annie Mahanor. “When they get in their car, they try to be just as fast and aggressive as in their virtual worlds, and it ends with an accident.” But girls may not be the great drivers statistics imply. Between 1975 and 2003, female deaths

in a vehicular accident have increased 14 percent while at the same time, guys’ deaths have decreased 11 percent. “Women are thought to be more patient and more cautious. You have to look at the personality of boys and girls and put that in perspective too,” said Assistant Principal for Student Affairs Charles Morris.

SPORTS

18 Feb. 11, 2013

Predator

Wharton hockey: on a mission By Nick Rogers co-sports-editor

ROGERS’ RUNDOWN

By NICK ROGERS

‘Just rub some dirt on it, kid’ “Are you okay, can you stay in?” This is a common question asked by coaches when players are sidelined due to injuries during sporting events. Before they know the full diagnosis, coaches often allow players to continue playing with potentially serious injuries. With the speed and physicality of today’s sports, injuries are more frequent. Concussions occur in every sport and are causing some sports to alter the rules of their games in order to regulate the play. The National Football League (NFL) is considering removing kickoffs entirely from the game in order to reduce the amount of head and neck injuries that are caused while players run at top speeds and make contact with opposing players. Removing kickoffs would completely revolutionize the game of football, but is it necessary? With players such as Eric Legrand and Kevin Everett both suffering neck injuries on kickoffs there is a great reason to debate whether or not to eliminate one of the most exciting plays in the game. The NFL is not the only league trying to protect its star athletes. The National Hockey League (NHL) is also making changes to improve the health and safety of its players. The NHL has talked to league sponsor Reebok and both sides have agreed to make the jerseys tighter so that it is harder to hook and bring down a player from behind while he is skating at a top speed. However, there is nothing you can do about the checking. Checking is a majorly important part of the game and often gets fans in the stands. Although suspensions are common on “dirty hits” or “cheap shots,” the NHL still has players suffer from concussions due to hits from behind. The “will to win” in both players and coaches alike can lead to some serious injuries at all sports levels. Without the proper medical equipment to diagnose players at the high school level, players are injured at an alarming rate. When will we make advances to help these athletes? A change is needed for sure. No player or coach wants to be the one blamed for allowing a player to continue with an injury. The change is needed and welcomed by all, but when will it take place?

Just because a sport is not sanctioned does not mean it is not important. Hockey is not currently recognized by the state of Florida as an official school sport, however, 19 Hillsborough and Pasco county schools compete to take home an unofficial state championship. “We still play hard because it’s important to us, regardless if it’s recognized by the state,” said senior forward Julian Baron-Clarke. With that attitude, the Wildcats ice hockey team has looked very impressive in several games this year. However, they have had a few games where their hustle and energy looked flat, and the box score definitely reflected that. “At times we have been playing without our best players due to injuries and players going out of town. But there are still times where we just lose focus and assume we are just the better team,” said senior forward and alternate captain Jackson Widell. When the Wildcats put all the pieces together they are a virtually unstoppable force. Wharton has a good mix of star players and key role players who keep the opposition guessing. “Scoring can come from pretty much anyone at any time so even if teams key on myself or Jackson, others can put the puck in the net” Baron-Clarke said. Teams do key on the two top scorers for Wharton assuming that stopping them will guarantee a victory for their team. However, other players such as forward/defenseman Alex

Photo by • Mariah Henderson face off - Forward Julian Baron-Clarke skates up ice in pursuit of another goal for the WIldcats. Baron-Clarke tallied four goals against Durant on Feb 1, during the 7-0 blowout which clinched a playoff spot for Wharton. Montgomery, forward Tyler Camposano and forward Joe Deardoff are underclassman who also have big time scoring abilities. Although Widell and BaronClarke are the two big names on the team and respectively so, totaling 49 goals and 84 total points, it’s natural to have defenses key on the two players. However, the trio of Montgomery, Camposano and Deardoff total 37 points of their own. The Wildcats have a balanced attack and seem to never be completely shut down. The Deardoff family does not only score goals, but they also prevent them. Tyler’s brother, Sam, is the starting goalie for the

Wildcats and has displayed incredible talent in several games this year. This senior goalie is an important reason why Wharton is as competitive as they are. Sam Deadoff is tied for third in the league with two shutouts and has had games where he has literally stood on his head to keep Wharton in the game. The Wildcats look to gain momentum and confidence from their final few regular season games before the playoffs start on Feb. 9 against the Mitchell Mustangs at 7:45 pm in Brandon. “I played a lot of hockey growing up,” Widell said, “so it would mean a lot to capture a state title for the team.”

Leading Scorers Julian Baron-Clarke G: 34

A:19 PIMS: 34

Jackson Widell G: 20

A:20 PIMS: 43

Justin Koepke G: 8

A: 16 PIMS: 17

Joseph Deardoff G: 8

A:7

PIMS: 18

Tyler Camposano G: 9

A: 4

PIMS: 4

Lady Wildcats optimistic for next year By Manal benyamine Club Editor “We are going to have big shoes to fill,” said junior midfielder Laura Johnson as she reflected on the Lady Wildcats’ 14-5-4 record. Despite losing five seniors (two of whom finished first and fifth in the conference for Class 5A District 7 in scoring), the girls team walked off the turf satisfied with their season. On the other hand, Coach Denis Vukorep did not share their sentiments. “We started the season at number one to finish the season as fourth,” he said. “It is disappointing. I feel like we could have done a lot better and that we finished the season too soon.” Their season began in late October with a dominating win in the Annual Wharton Invitational over Sunlake, 5-2. “It was our first game, so it was our first time playing together,” center defender Natalie Humphrey said. Humphrey later added proudly that after that initial win, “We never lost on our home field (for the rest of the season).” Johnson ranked this win as one of her favorite memories of the season.

“Girls soccer has never done it before in school history,” she said. Goalkeeper Gabrielle Hyppolite agreed with Johnson. “My favorite memory is the Wharton Invitational,” she said. “In the end, it went to PK’s, and I blocked a shot that would have tied the game.” After this historic win, the team did not experience a loss until Dec. 4 when they were defeated by Newsome, 1-5. “We got up 1-0, then we stopped playing,” Vukorep said, “and that’s what happens.” Despite their four losses, the team ended up dominating the district stats. The team finished ranked 54th in the state and 184th nationally. Senior forward Ashni Deschenes captured the number one spot in District 7 with her 17 goals and four assists. Senior midfielder Leah Chisolm was not far behind. She finished fifth in the district with 10 goals and nine assists. Juniors Lexi Oeth and Johnson finished eighth and ninth respectively. Senior keeper Courtney Bodamer ended the season second in the district with 71 saves and 11 shut outs. “I am happy that I accomplished that and I couldn’t ask for anything else,” Bodamer said. Even though the team ended

Photo by • Alex montgomery Bright future- Freshman Taylor Hubbard battles for the ball against a Newsome defender at Wharton. She is one of several returning players. their season with a loss to Newsome in district play, the season did end on a high note with the college signings of Deschenes and Chisolm. Chisolm will be heading to Eckerd College in St. Petersburg, and Deschenes will be off to Deland to play for Stetson University. With the loss of Bodamer, Deschenes, Chisolm, mid-

fielder Samantha Lawrence and forward/midfielder Shannon Bailey, the underclassmen know the team will take a hit. Vukorep feels confident about the returning team. “We return with a good team,” he said. “They need to be more passionate in playing high school soccer and playing for Wharton.”

Predator

sports

Feb. 11, 2013

Varsity cheerleaders go for glory by joe paredes

football season ends, but it really doesn’t.” However, while current memDon’t let the glitter and bows bers of the cheer team are aware of these niceties, a handful of fool you. Year by year, they stand by, the student body only sees the cheering and smiling, a fixture basics of cheerleading. “I’m not entirely sure what on the Wildcats’ sidelines. Yet, what the wildcat population they do outside of the routines we see at fails to recschool ognize is events,” the extrem“Cheerleaders are very active; G a b e ity of cheerthey put in a ton of practice and A g e l a n , leading. “Toe- put their bodies through a lot of s e n i o r , said, “but touch jump wear and tear.” I’m sure and a backthey work hand spring are one of Jennifer Taylor very hard at what the few Senior they do.” general reThroughquirements out school to be considered for a spot on varsity cheerleading,” Kasey history controversy has risen in Joyce, senior cheerleader, said. terms of whether cheerleading “You also have to have good should be considered as a sport motions and some skill in stunt- or not. “Cheerleading is a sport.” ing and must be willing to dedicate a lot of time and effort into Jennifer Taylor, senior, said. “Cheerleaders are very active, improving.” The cheer season begins in ear- they put in a ton of practice and ly August and lasts to mid-Feb- put their bodies through a lot of ruary. During the seven month wear and tear.” While individuals may have period, the Lady Wildcats take part in school-wide functions headbutting opinions on the such as pep rallies and football subject, the Association of games while also participating Cheerleading Coaches and Advisors has settled the long term in various competitions. “The three biggest competi- dispute. According to guidelines, a tions for us are the Western Conference, Regionals and sport is defined as any form of States,” Christina Malcolm, se- physical activity in which opponior, said. “A lot of people think nents take part in competition that our season ends when the governed by a set of rules under

staff writer

Photo By • Gigi jackson wildcat cheerleading - [From left to right] Savannah Hammel, 11; Sabrina Williams, 11; Olivia Rustin, 10; Jamie Miller, 12; Kasey Joyce, 12; Ashley Cahill, 12; Nikki Morse, 10; and Christina Malcolm, 12, are eight of the 12 cheerleaders who placed fifth in the state competiton on Feb. 2. which a winner is declared. All of which, apply to cheerleading. “People think that because we wear skirts and makeup we can’t be classified with other athletes,” Nikki Morse, sophomore, said, “but what they don’t know is that cheer is very dan-

gerous.” After placing 11th at their Western Conference and 2nd at Regionals, the Lady Cats ended up taking 5th place overall with a score of 70.6 at States on Feb. 2, 2013. They were 0.2 points away from fourth place, two points

away from third place, and five points away from second place. “I’ve had a great four years working with this team,” Joyce said. “It’s going to be sad leaving behind the Lady Cats but I know that they will do great in future competitions.”

game day

Feb. 11, 2013

Predator

College dorm or Neuhaus...

Opportunities knock for Tucker By cj potter staff writer

ucker Neuhaus has a chance to make history in the upcoming 2013 Major League Baseball Draft this summer. He could be the very first Wharton baseball player to be drafted right out of high school. But even if teams pass him up this year, Neuhaus has already committed to the University of Louisville. “I think the signing bonus would be a big part of my decision and also what round I get drafted in, but really either way I’ll be happy going to college or playing pro ball,” Neuhaus said, “but I’ll probably end up signing and playing pro ball.” Regardless of his future, Neuhaus already knows what number he’d like to wear on his back. I’d probably wear number 19 for my brother ‘cause that’s the number he wore, and he just passed away about a month ago, or number 52. That’s the number my adviser [Jim Bullinger] wore in the Major Leagues, and he’s been a big inspiration to me.” Neuhaus started his baseball journey right from birth, as early as possible. My dad was a college coach up in Minnesota (Beth Hill College), so I was kind of born into it [baseball],” Neuhaus said, “It’s been something I’ve been doing my whole life. Baseball has just always been my life.” A life-long dream with dedicated work has finally paid off. After his sophomore season, Neuhaus picked up his first offer from Lynn University.

Sunday

Photo ILLUSTRATION by • Scott Sollazzo Follow your dreams - Senior shortstop Tucker Neuhaus has the opportunity to make Wharton High School history as the first baseball player drafted into the Major Leagues after his senior year. However, if the MLB doesn’t pan out, he’s headed to Louisville. “I mean I was excited, but it’s a D2 (Division Two) and I knew I could do a lot better, so I decided to wait, and then my junior years I got 10 more offers,” he said. His sophomore year at Wharton was one to forget. He batted .200 in only 16 games for Wharton. Playing for the the Gaines-

Monday

ville Hard Ballers, Neuhaus got to shine in his two seasons there batting .300. That’s what drew in all the attention. From all the offers that came in, before he even got to step to the plate his junior season, on Dec. 5, 2011, Neuhaus verbally committed to the University of Louisville.

February

Tuesday

Girls basketball districts @ Alonso @ 5 pm

Tennis v. Sickles @ 3 pm

Tennis v. Riverview @ 3 pm

Wednesday Club Day

Girls basketball districts @ Alonso @ 5 pm

Girls basketball regionals @ 7 pm Softball / Baseball @ Armwood @ 7 pm

Tennis v. Steinbrenner Track @ Plant @ 6 pm Boys basketball @ 3 pm regionals @ 7 pm Softball / Baseball @ Newsome @ 7 pm Tennis v. Steinbrenner @ 3 pm

His junior year he showed why he deserved all of the attention. In 30 games he batted .329, hit six home runs, drove in 17 runs, hit two triples and stole four bases. Neuhaus has a chance to make history this upcoming summer and with each swing he takes this season, he intends to show

Track @ Jefferson @ 6 pm Softball / Baseball @ Plant @ 7 pm

Thursday

Boys basketball @ Sickles @ 7 pm

Pep Rally 7 6 Tennis v. Bloomingdale Girls basketball @ 3 pm regionals @ 7 pm Boys basketball Softball @ ChamberDistricts @ lain@ 7 pm Bloomingdale @ 6:30

Tennis v. Newsome @ 3 pm

Club Day

Tennis v. Robinson @ 3 pm

Boys basketball regionals @ 7 pm

Miscellanea Auditions @ 3 pm

all the Major League scouts why he should be their team’s next draft choice. “At the end of the road,” Neuhaus said, “if I do make it to the big leagues, having all the money and the big house and everything like that, just everything that comes with it, it’d be awesome.”

Friday

Saturday

Wrestling Districts @ Palm Harbour @ 9 am

Boys basketball districts @ Bloomingdale @ 7 pm

Softball / Baseball @ Softball @ Middleton Freedom @ 7 pm @1 pm

Baseball @Riverview @ 1 pm Boys basketball Softball / Baseball @ regionals finals Alonso @ 7 pm @ 7 pm Blood Drive 1 2 Softball / Baseball @ Bloomingdale @ 7 pm