december 2012

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Friday, December 14, 2012 ß hilights.org hi- lights Volume 61 ß Issue 3 for students, by students GLOBAL WARMING Writer says theory lacks evidence [ EDITORIALS, page 3 COLOR 101 The psychology of color explained [ENTERTAINMENT, page 16 MAKING GOALS Boys’ soccer continues home winning streak [ SPORTS, page 10 INDEX opinion 2 campus & local 4 features 6 special 8 sports 10 entertainment 13 Today is day 348 of 2012, and there are 17 days until 2013. GET INVOLVED check us out on facebook follow us on twitter @hilightsnp SEE AND HEAR MORE go to hilights.org for photo galleries, soundslides featuring students and weekly sports’ beats ßrandomfact Bright Futures raises standards By OLIVIA QUATTRONE Bright Futures helps families all across Florida at public universities pay part of the fees involved in a college education; however, with the frequent changes made to the program, these benefits may be harder for some students to receive. The Bright Futures scholarship program, which is funded by the Florida lottery, allows students who achieve academically to receive scholarships to Florida schools. The highest award is the Florida Academic Scholars award. It pays $100 per credit hour. The Florida Medallion Scholars award covers $75 an hour. With the additional fees involved, the cost per credit hour can add up to over $200. Therefore, Bright Futures may cover half of the cost of a credit hour. “I think Bright Futures should cover at least half of tuition and all of the supplies needed because I know textbooks can cost $100, and I think that could affect families,” sophomore Brynne Dawkins said. While Bright Futures can alleviate some of the financial burden to families, recent changes have created barriers for students trying to qualify for the scholarship. One of the changes made is that one must complete more State limits students’ dual enrollment course options By JACKSON CRUMBLY Dual enrollment is a program for high school students to take college courses. Recently, Valencia’s dual enrollment program has limited the number of classes a high school student can take. Students now only have access to courses that are graduation requirements for college and are limited to 12 credits a semester. According to guidance counselor Jeanette Summers, students need a 3.0 GPA and score a 1000 on the SAT to be eligible for Valencia dual enrollment. “I think [these cuts will] put students in a tricky position. The days when students could earn an associates degree before graduating high school are gone,” Summers said. Senior Shelby Trimble, who has been in dual enrollment at Valencia since her junior year, disagrees with the required courses. Trimble is taking anthropology, biology, physics and humanities. “I don’t like [the new limitations]. I A piracy life for me By COOPER BROCK If anyone who commits an act of piracy is technically considered a pirate, the Internet has become just as populated with pirates as the Caribbean Sea was in the 1600’s. Piracy, a term normally associated with swashbucklers and buccaneers, can be used in other contexts as well, including but not limited to, unauthorized usage of copyrighted software downloaded illegally from the Internet. As MP3 players and other portable media devices have eliminated the need for CDs, the distribution of digital media has skyrocketed, but not always legally. Torrent sites, such as thepiratebay.se, bittorrent.com and what.cd, have made it possible to download all the music one wants without paying a cent. According to the Recording Industry Association of America, in the decade since peer-to-peer (p2p) file- sharing site Napster emerged in 1999, music sales in the U.S. have dropped 47 percent, from $14.6 billion to $7.7 billion. From 2004 through 2009, approximately 30 billion songs were illegally downloaded from file-sharing networks across the web. An analysis by the Institute for Policy Innovation concludes that global music piracy costs $12.5 billion in economic losses every year, 71,060 U.S. jobs lost, a loss of $2.7 billion in workers’ earnings, a loss of $422 million in tax revenues, $291 million in personal income tax and $131 million in lost corporate income and production taxes. The proposed Stop Online Piracy Act’s purpose is to curb the growing trend. If passed, the United States law enforcement would have an enhanced ability to crack down on the distribution of copyrighted intellectual properties and counterfeit goods. Opponents such as Wikipedia, the online encyclopedia, emerged to fight the bill. Taking their site down for a day as protest, Wikipedia argued that SOPA would constrict Students have fewer choices for college courses Shelby Trimble Users plunder Internet for music, videos and other media Music and Movie piracy: Easy Access [ Full story, page 4, see Community colleges [ Full story, page 4, see Colleges [ Full story, page 13, see Piracy Homeless rate grows By LIZZY GORDON With a tight grip around his father’s arm, the boy lays down on a park bench. This is the closest thing he will have to a bed tonight. According to the article “Homeless U.S. Students Top More Than One Million” from the nonprofit organization The Mustard Seed, an estimated 56,000 students across Florida are fighting homelessness. Homelessness is defined as not having a permanent place of residence or a home. “I was homeless when I was a child. I was scared because I did not know where we would sleep. Sometimes we slept on park benches,” senior John Doe said. “When we finally moved into a house, I did not think it would last long.” Shelters find themselves crowded year round, especially during the winter ßthe411 639 West Central Blvd. Orlando, FL 32801 407-426-1256 5931 East Colonial Dr. Orlando, FL 32807 407-482-0404 400 West Colonial Drive Orlando, FL 32801 407-423-8581 [ Full story, page 5, see Homeless Music acquired in the U.S. in 2009 Illegally acquired Legally acquired source/riaa.com (in billions of dollars) Music sold in 1999 Music sold in 2009 Estimated annual maximum of Illegally downloaded music Estimated annual min. source/riaa.com

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December issue

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Page 1: December 2012

Friday, December 14, 2012 ß hilights.orghi-lightsVolume 61 ß Issue 3

for students, by students

GLOBAL WARMINGWriter says theory lacks evidence[ EDITORIALS, page 3

COLOR 101The psychology of color explained[ENTERTAINMENT, page

16

MAKING GOALSBoys’ soccer

continues home winning streak

[ SPORTS, page 10

INDEXopinion 2campus & local 4features 6

special 8sports 10entertainment 13

Today is day 348 of 2012, and there are 17 days until 2013.

GET INVOLVEDcheck us out on facebookfollow us on twitter@hilightsnp

SEE AND HEAR MOREgo to hilights.org for photo galleries, soundslides featuring students and weekly sports’ beats

ßrandomfact

Bright Futures raises standards

By OLIVIA QuATTRONEBright Futures helps families all across Florida at public

universities pay part of the fees involved in a college education; however, with the frequent changes made to the program, these benefits may be harder for some students to receive.

The Bright Futures scholarship program, which is funded by the Florida lottery, allows students who achieve academically to receive scholarships to Florida schools. The highest award is the Florida Academic Scholars award. It pays $100 per credit hour. The Florida Medallion Scholars award covers $75 an hour. With the additional fees involved, the cost per credit hour can add up to over $200. Therefore, Bright Futures may cover half of the cost of a credit hour.

“I think Bright Futures should cover at least half of tuition and all of the supplies needed because I know textbooks can cost $100, and I think that could affect families,” sophomore Brynne Dawkins said.

While Bright Futures can alleviate some of the financial burden to families, recent changes have created barriers for students trying to qualify for the scholarship.

One of the changes made is that one must complete more

State limits students’ dual enrollment course options

By JACKSON CRuMBLY

Dual enrollment is a program for high school students to take college courses. Recently, Valencia’s dual enrollment

program has limited the number of classes a high school student can take.

Students now only have access to courses that are graduation requirements for college and are limited to 12 credits a semester.

According to guidance counselor Jeanette Summers, students need a 3.0

GPA and score a 1000 on the SAT to be eligible for Valencia dual enrollment.

“I think [these cuts will] put students in a tricky position. The days when students could earn an associates degree before graduating high school are gone,” Summers said.

Senior Shelby Trimble, who has been

in dual enrollment at Valencia since her junior year, disagrees with the required courses. Trimble is taking anthropology, biology, physics and humanities.

“I don’t like [the new limitations]. I

A piracy life for me

By COOPER BROCKIf anyone who commits an act of

piracy is technically considered a pirate, the Internet has become just as populated with pirates as the Caribbean Sea was in the 1600’s.

Piracy, a term normally associated with swashbucklers and buccaneers, can be used in other contexts as well, including but not limited to, unauthorized usage of copyrighted software downloaded illegally from the Internet.

As MP3 players and other portable media devices have eliminated the need for CDs, the distribution of digital media has skyrocketed, but not always legally. Torrent sites, such as thepiratebay.se, bittorrent.com and what.cd, have made it possible to download all the music one wants without paying a cent.

According to the Recording Industry Association of America, in the decade since peer-to-peer (p2p) file-sharing site Napster emerged in 1999, music sales in the U.S. have dropped 47 percent, from $14.6 billion to $7.7 billion. From 2004 through 2009, approximately 30 billion songs were illegally downloaded from file-sharing networks across the web.

An analysis by the Institute for Policy Innovation concludes that global music piracy costs $12.5 billion in economic losses every year, 71,060 U.S. jobs lost, a loss of $2.7 billion in workers’ earnings, a loss of $422 million in

tax revenues, $291 million in personal income tax and $131 million in lost corporate income and production taxes.

The proposed Stop Online Piracy Act’s purpose is to curb the growing trend. If passed, the United States law enforcement would have an enhanced ability to crack down on the distribution of copyrighted intellectual properties and counterfeit goods.

Opponents such as Wikipedia, the online encyclopedia, emerged to fight the bill. Taking their site down for a day as protest, Wikipedia argued that SOPA would constrict

Students have fewer choices for college courses

Shelby Trimble

Users plunder Internet for music, videos and other media

Music and Movie piracy: Easy Access

[ Full story, page 4, see Community colleges

[ Full story, page 4, see Colleges

[ Full story, page 13, see Piracy

Homeless rate grows

By LIZZY GORDONWith a tight grip around his father’s

arm, the boy lays down on a park bench. This is the closest thing he will have to a bed tonight.

According to the article “Homeless U.S. Students Top More Than One Million” from the nonprofit organization The Mustard Seed, an estimated 56,000 students across Florida are fighting homelessness. Homelessness is defined as not having a permanent place of residence or a home.

“I was homeless when I was a child. I was scared because I did not know where we would sleep. Sometimes we slept on park benches,” senior John Doe said. “When we finally moved into a house, I did not think it would last long.”

Shelters find themselves crowded year round, especially during the winter

ßthe411

639 West Central Blvd.Orlando, FL 32801407-426-1256

5931 East Colonial Dr.Orlando, FL 32807407-482-0404

400 West Colonial DriveOrlando, FL 32801407-423-8581

[ Full story, page 5, see Homeless

Music acquired in the u.S. in 2009

Illegally acquired

Legally acquired

source/riaa.com

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Page 2: December 2012

Controversy twists science

2 Friday, December 14, 2012 hilights.org hi-lights

insight[The Second Amendment] is a fundamental right that should be upheld by the highest authority.Nathaniel Reiff, senior

If the fairy tale Cinderella was politically correct, Cinderella would be an independent, adept female, not a damsel in distress. Prince Charming would be of mixed race, and her fairy godmother would be a fairy godperson.

The vine of political correctness covers every aspect of professional and personal lives. It chokes opinion and suffocates harmless conversation.

Starting this fall, the University of North Carolina Chapel Hill’s freshman class members are no longer considered freshmen. They’re all first years. The policy is supposedly politically correct, but it is also ridiculous. The notion that a woman attending UNC is offended by her designation as a freshman instead of a fresh woman is excessively sensitive.

There was a day when America was a highly sexist society. Women did not attend college, their occupations were limited and their pay was severely lower than the average male pay. However, that day is not today. Anyone genuinely offended by the term freshman needs to regroup and move forward. This exaggerated attention to detail keeps women in the past, not the present.

Also, in the English language, words default to masculine pronouns. Even if the word freshman possesses sexist undertones, grammatically, it is correct.

Furthermore, with the holidays approaching, disputes about saying “Happy Holidays,” which is politically correct, versus “Merry Christmas” will surface. The issue is there should not be a dispute at all.

Happy Holidays is simply an alternative to Merry Christmas. However, deeming “Happy Holidays” politically correct because it includes all celebrations, makes the expression a political correctness issue. Happy Holidays is suddenly expected because it’s “the proper” thing to say. People preferring “Merry Christmas” can be offended because they see their favored expression as incorrect. As soon as offense is taken due to either phrase, political correctness needlessly turns a happy greeting into verbal friction.

Americans should be able to say both salutations without fear of offending someone. The necessity for political correctness and the outright fear of getting thrown into a political debate crushes diversity and opinion.

Worrying about political correctness makes people see conflict when there really is none. Fretting about the proper thing to say can kill conversations about political, social or religious differences, and it inadvertently censors the First Amendment rights of Americans.

So right it’s wrong

Lindsay Alexander, Editor-In-Chief

TLLThrough Lindsay’s Lens

ßbeheardSend letters to the editor to Hi-Lights, 1000 E. Kaley St., Orlando, FL 32806, or drop off in Room 224. You can also send to [email protected]. Letters may be edited for length and clarity. To be considered for print, all letters must be signed and cannot contain libelous information.

Contact us at 407-893-7200 ext. 6012614 or via email at [email protected]

Comment on the web at hilights.org

To advertise call Lizzy Gordon at our offi ces. The paper is free to students and subscriptions are available for $10. Ad sizes available: Business card $25; Eighth page $45; Quarter page $95; Half page $125; Full page $175

ßletters to the editor

ßfollowusOn Twitter @hilightsnp

On Facebook at facebook.com/hilights

Gun laws are overbearing I believe gun laws are too overbearing, especially regarding regulation and the right to conceal a federal level. The Second Amendment delegates the right to all United States constituents to bear arms. As a [person who interprets the Constitution with its original intent], our laws should be conceived around the original intent of our Founding Fathers. It is a fundamental right that should be upheld by the highest authority.

Nathaniel Reiff, senior

Regulations are effectiveGun regulations and laws are already

effective. Criminals are going to have guns whether the law exists or not, so I believe if citizens are allowed to own guns [legally] then that should lower [illegal] gun ownership and high crime rates throughout the country. I believe everyone who is mentally stable should be allowed to own at least one gun if done legally.

Dustin Driskell, junior

Responsibility is necessaryPersonally, I do think gun

regulations are effective and sufficient. Gun ownership is taken seriously and people who are qualified respect the right to own a gun. Obviously, there are exceptions and idiotic people waving around guns, but I do not think the United States can outlaw stupidity. Guns don’t kill people, people kill people. The person pulling the trigger is at fault, not the gun.

Victoria Treiber, senior

Gun laws not strict enoughI believe gun ownership regulations

are not sufficient enough. I do agree with the age at which a person may own a gun, but I think in order to own a gun the person should know how to handle it properly. They should also explain and demonstrate the proper safety precautions when handling a gun. And in order to carry a gun on their person, they must have a proper holster where the weapon is hidden.

Shane Mallory, senior Am I too conservative? Don’t worry about

political correctness, let me know what you think of my thoughts. Maybe yours can be published too. [email protected].

ourv

iew

Private gun ownership should be strictly regulated to ensure a safer community while still upholding one’s right to bear arms.

Every night the evening news reports on countless murders, accidental deaths and injuries. The cause of these horrific crimes can be attributed to the lack of adequate gun regulations and easy access to weapons in the United States. In the past year alone, over 60 shooting incidents

occurred at the hands of gun owners who should not have been in possession of a weapon because of their young age or background of mental health problems. The government needs to pay more careful attention to those with potential mental instability. While the Second Amendment right to bear arms should be staunchly protected as a citizen’s fundamental liberty, the government might consider which citizens are the ones who are exercising this fundamental, but potentially dangerous right. The federal government should establish stricter, uniform laws regarding the process of obtaining a weapon. Currently only 28 states require a report of the buyer’s mental health. Federal and state laws require all 50 states to perform thorough criminal

background checks on potential buyers, but fail to screen for those who are not mentally stable to acquire legitimate gun ownership. As a result, incidents such as the massacre of 12 innocent people in a movie theater in Aurora, Colorado, are possible. The confessed killer, James Holmes, had recorded mental issues, but still legally obtained a gun since he had no previous criminal background. While a three day waiting period before issuing a permit is implemented, it is only required in 11 states. The sale of guns at shops can provide a buyer with a weapon within one day. This quick, easy access increases the chances of fatal weapons getting into the wrong hands. In addition to inadequate precautions for private gun ownership, the high availability of assault-style weapons makes it easier for criminals and underage teenagers to acquire. No citizen needs an assault-style rifle. These weapons should be regulated enough so only law-abiding citizens concerned with their safety can purchase such weapons. Hand guns and rifles are sufficient for one’s safety, sport and leisure. Along with the restriction of assault-style weapons, the amount of rounds one should be able to carry with their concealed weapon should be limited, banning battlefield clips of 100 rounds of ammunition that are not necessary for a civilian’s safety in daily life. No individual needs a high-power 100 round

assault-rifle. These limitations will not violate one’s Second Amendment right, but will ensure a safer country. According to the Pew Research Center, approximately 270 million guns are owned by American citizens. Wal-Mart shelves are stocked with low-level hunting guns that can be harmful if not used for their purpose. One could purchase a hunting rifle with the same ease as a pair of shoes at his local store. Along with adults, children and teenagers are exposed to these weapons. The minimum age for private gun ownership is 18-years-old. Although it is the age of a legal adult who has the right to vote, if one is not old enough to consume alcohol, why should that individual be able to possess a deadly weapon? Gun violence is prominent in the United States, having the highest gun-homicide rate in the world. Children and teenagers are being accustomed to living in a country where guns are associated with high crime, homicide and suicide rates. Most famously, the mass shooting at Columbine High School 13 years ago provides a tragic example of two teens who obtained high-powered assault rifles and committed horrific acts. This can be prevented if the same laws implemented by less than half the states became federal restrictions applied nationwide. The approach to gun violence is to wait until after the fact to ask questions like why and how. Instead of taking a shot in the dark, Americans should look at the root of the problem: unnecessary force and easy accessibility.

illustration/KARINA FLORES

Tragedies trigger concern

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On Dec. 1, Kansas City Chiefs’ Jovan Belcher shot and killed his girlfriend before committing suicide in front of team offi cials at the Arrowhead Stadium.

source/Department of Health and Human Services, U.S. Gun Homicde and Cost Database

Page 3: December 2012

Controversy twists science

hi-lights insight 3Friday, December 14, 2012 hilights.org

WRITING CENTER PROVIDES HELPThe Writing Center is open during both lunch shifts in Room 313. Student writing consultants along with English teachers Jennifer Hilley and Mike Glester can help any student with his writing. Students are welcome to bring their lunches during the consultation.

COMPUTER LABSThe computer labs in Room 220, 226, 221 and 228 are open before and after school on designated days. One can go online, write papers and print documents.

COMPUTER LABSThe computer labs in Room 220, 226, 221 and 228 are open before and after school on designated days. One can go online, write papers and print documents.

hi-lightsnewspaperEDITORIAL BOARDEditor-In-Chief Lindsay AlexanderDesign Editor Anna Marie BoriaCopy Editor Karina FloresBusiness Manager Lizzy GordonIndex Editor Delanee BoganWebmaster Bridgette NorrisCampus and Local Editor Thomas EganFeatures Editor Lia VillarSports Editor Chase GardnerEntertainment Editor Cooper Brock

STAFFERS Meghan Cotton, Jackson Crumbly, Conor Curry, Gabriella Fakhoury, Kaley Gilbert, Austin Hall, Josh Halloran, Sam Holleman, Heather Janas, Jordan Knight, Ciara McCoy, Thomas McDonald, Mackenzie Mock, Paula Morales, Olivia Quatrone, Gavin Waters

Editorial Policy POLICY STATEMENT

Hi-Lights is a student publication of William R. Boone High School, 1000 E. Kaley Ave., Orlando, Florida, 32806. The ideas and views of the aforementioned students and faculty are not those of Boone or the Orange County School Board. Opinions expressed in unsigned editorials are those of the editorial board, who determine the content. Opinions expressed in columns are those of the authors.

Comments, letters, stories and ideas are welcome and encouraged under the following: 1. The material is not obscene or libelous 2. The material is signed

The staff reserves the right to edit letters for grammar, length, punctuation, accuracy, invasion of privacy and potential disruption of the school.

OTHERAdviser Renee Burke Principal Margaret McMillen

SCHOLASTIC ASSOCIATIONSHi-Lights is associated with Florida Scholastic, American Scholastic, Columbia Scholastic and National Scholastic Press Associations and Quill and Scroll.

OuR MISSIONThis paper is a quality product whose sole purpose is to pursue the truth, and to provide information and factual news pertaining to Boone and the community around it. Any questions or comments can be directed to (407) 893-7200, extension 6012614 or Room 224, as well as by email to [email protected]. If you find any errors, please call our offices or visit us.

SEE MORECheck out hilights.org for up-to-date news and information. Scan this QR code to go to hilights.org

By TOMMY MCDONALDGlobal warming is an easy

concept to understand. The earth is warming up and everything is changing

because people are emitting too much CO2. In reality, this simplified perception

lacks solid evidence. The earth is warming up. According

to “Effects of Global Warming” in National Geographic the world has warmed up 1.4 degrees

fahrenheit and even more in the poles. Without a doubt, the world’s average temperature increased.

The increase in temperature is not without effect. Outcomes of global warming include worldwide ice melting, increase in the rate of rising sea levels, animals

moving farther north, increasing rainfall, and the decline of some species including penguins in Antarctica which have fallen from 32,000 mating pairs to 11,000, according to “Effects of Global Warming.”

Although there is evidence that global warming is occurring, it is not known what the source of it is.

The major misconception is that CO2 emission from the burning of fossil fuels is the settled cause of global warming. In theory, it is easy to relate the increased release of a gas that traps heat in the atmosphere as the cause of global warming, but under further investigation, to make this assumption with just this knowledge is uneducated. Humans have released more CO2 in the past 100 years than ever before and temperatures are

increasing. Though the two are increasing, the global average temperature is increasing at a drastically slower rate than CO2 emissions, according to

Climate Conservative Consumer.Scientists at the European Organization for

Nuclear Research (CERN) proved that cosmic rays in a stainless steel environment that

replicates the Earth’s atmosphere change the temperature by controlling the cloud size.

The sun’s magnetic field controls how many cosmic rays will enter the

Earth’s atmosphere, and the rays lead to the formation of cloud

droplets. The cloud droplets form clouds which

regulate the Earth’s t e m p e r a t u r e .

Therefore, the sun,which

mitigates the entrance of the cloud forming rays, determines the Earth’s temperature, according to CERN’s Cosmics Leaving Outdoor Droplets experiment.

Due to the results that severely question the possibility of CO2 emissions having a large hand in global warming, Rolf-Dieter Heuer, the director of CERN, is telling his scientists not to draw any conclusions from the experiment even though the evidence easily forms a conclusion that cosmic rays have an active hand in the temperature. This is because global warming is a highly political issue and funding for projects looking to investigate other causes of global warming besides CO2 could be cut like past projects.

Global warming has always been a highly political issue. The lack of concrete evidence about global warming has not stopped politicians from creating policy to address the undiscovered cause. Neil Windsor, the Association of Professional Engineers and Geoscientists of Alberta executive director, is not surprised about a survey conducted by APEGGA with over 1000 replies where 68 percent agreed that a scientific cause on climate change had been settled because their is no clear agreed cause of global warming by scientists.

According to “Carbon tax: Exxon backs Obama plan to impose climate change fees” on newsday.com, a carbon tax would charge electricity producers, refiners, and manufacturers for the greenhouse gases they release.

This is just one example of governments trying to tax CO2 emissions even though there is no knowledge on how the climate reacts to CO2 emissions according to “The Weather Isn’t Getting Weirder” in the Wall Street Journal.

Trying to fix the environment based on faulty assumptions will not lead to progress and could possibly lead to harmful effects on the economy.

The Obama-EPA under the Clean Air Act costs $400 billion a year and will also increase the price of energy and create job loss. The government will add 230,000 new employees using taxpayer money and will cost an additional $21 billion to enact the green house gas program according to Oklahoma Republican Sen. James Inhofe, who is a ranking member of Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works. EPA Administrator Lisa Jackson has stated the new regulation will not bare any effect on the environment.

Not only will this lead to an increase in spending, it will lead to a loss of jobs. The Global Warming Act of 2006 helped California achieve it’s 12 percent unemployment rate and have the highest unemployment in the nation, according to americanthinker.com, in “Scientists Revolt Against Global Warming” which is similar to Obama’s model.

On the contrary, states like Texas and North Dakota are using oil to power a strong economy. North Dakota has a 3.5 percent unemployment rate because of the oil production, according to americanthinker.com, and 40 percent of Texas’ new jobs since the 2009 economic recession have been because of the oil industry. Oil jobs pay well too. The average starting pay on an oil rig is $70,000.

Oil offers a way for the US economy to revitalize itself. Offshore drilling in Brazil created two million jobs. The United States possesses triple the amount of oil of

Brazil; that’s potentially six million new jobs. G l o b a l warming is

s t i l l shrouded by unknowns. C o n c l u d i n g something is causing it at this time is making a major assumption. Until more research can be conducted, global warming’s cause can not be determined. Strong research exists that cosmic rays controlled by the sun lead to cloud formation which regulates the temperature of the Earth. There is evidence that CO2 is not affecting the global temperature.

Making laws to combat a problem by reducing a potential cause that has limited evidence backing it is reckless and uninformed. President Obama’s policy will hurt the economy and will not even slightly affect global warming. EPA administrator Lisa Jackson even admits that the policy will not change the environment because of her strong belief that CO2 is not causing global warming. According to Dr. Richard Evans, rocket scientist, carbon accounting expert, and former consultant to the Australian Greenhouse Office, historical climate change is not correlating with rising CO2 levels and has been unrelated to it for up to 800 years.

Global warming by CO2 is the biggest known conspiracy in politics today. There is no conclusive evidence backing it, yet the leader of the most powerful nation in the world openly supports it and is risking his country’s economy on it despite the impending fiscal cliff. Global warming will remain an issue, but until extensive, honest research can escape the grasp of politically funded scientists, the global community will not make true progress to uncovering the truth behind this modern mystery.

Scientists lack global

warming understanding

Tragedies trigger concern

source/Environmental Protection Agency

CO2 Emissions by Gas

Page 4: December 2012

4 Friday, December 14, 2012 hilights.org hi-lights

thenews I don’t really mind courses being cut because there’s a wide amount of courses being offered.Alan Kominowski, senior

Subs

Mama B’s

GIANT

1101 South Orange Avenue Orlando, FL 32806(407) 839-3633

Andrew Hungerford1141 S. Osceola Ave.Orlando, FL 32806studio: [email protected]

hungerforddesign.com

HUNGERFORD d e s i g n

Sam Holleman: So, kids. In the present…Austin Hall: Kids suck, so much. Kids like, just like, they

like, just speak like they have like, turrets. Do you know what I mean?

SH: Yeah, like, I totally like, got you man. You know what I’m saying?

AH: Ya, I feel you. Can you believe what YOLO has turned into?

SH: No, no, I was walking to third period and I overheard this kid say that he just YOLO’d a test. He used the acronym as a verb. That is like saying you BOGO’d some flavor shock Gushers at Albertson’s, or that you BTW’d your step-sister last night.

AH: My friend actually did YOLO a test once. He spelled out the word “YOLO” with the bubbles. Needless to say, he failed the test, even with a 16 percent curve. I mean, he didn’t study for the test, so he was going to fail anyways, but I guess if you’re going to fail, do it with style.

SH: YOLO should not be used as a verb.AH: YOLO is not a verb! Among the list of words that

kids these days have created is “legitly.”SH: Legitly doesn’t exist.AH: Exactly! I have heard girls say along the lines of

“Like, legit? She like, legitly did that?!” And I just wanted to go on a rampage. Legitly is not a word. And yes (let’s call this mystery man Robert for now) Robert may have actually been texting your BFF Rebecca, but he LEGITIMATELY texted her 10 minutes after you two broke up over an argument over Taylor Swift’s new album. He did not legitly text her. Be quiet.

SH: Legit is a legitimate word, but legitly is nowhere to be found in the dictionary.

AH: The word “legit” has become more of a question.SH: Exactly.AH: It has gone from “I can win an iPhone 5 if I know

how many states there are? That must be legit.” To girls with annoying voices walking around the hallway asking people, “Like, legit?” It just seems like kids these days try to slip that word into everything, to sound more intelligent.

SH: I blame Bieber. He is the one who brought swag into the world in that song called “Swag’s Mean.”

AH: I do not think that Bieber really has anything to do with it. I blame the rap industry. They are the ones creating useless words like “YOLO” and “swag.”

SH: That’s true, but why limit it to just the rap industry? I blame society as a whole. If people did not accept these words into their vocabulary, then they would not become popular. It is the youth that caused YOLO, swag, legitly, and totes to be a common thing. LOL is in the dictionary now because people wanted it to be in there, because people accepted it as a word, and now it is a word. We as a whole (not necessarily as individuals) want these words to become common phrases.

AH: This is true. Kids these days have so much influence over the country. It is ridiculous. That thought scares me. Let’s hope that in the future us kids will grow out of these terrible habits and not pass them on to our children.

SH: We will never knock the habit of making up ignorant phrases. YOLO, swag and phrases such as that will slowly fade away and new ones will take their place. It has been going on for years. In the 80’s it was rad, then the 90’s rolled around and phat took its place. At the new millennium raw was big, and now there is swag. That is the scariest part about this: as one dies, a new one is waiting to take its place.

AH: Stuck in this circle of stupidity are all of the citizens that have to listen to the incomprehensible babbling that goes on between the youth of today.

Sam Holleman, columnist

Kids do not speak good

KKids These Days

DTAustin Hall, columnist

State limits dual enrollment[ Community colleges from, page 1can’t get my general associates degree [like] I was planning to,” Trimble said.

Junior Taylor Keefer will also not graduate high school with her associates degree. When she registered for Valencia courses this summer, no one informed her of the change effective in 2013.

“I feel like we are being punished for getting ahead. My entire plan was messed up,” Keefer said.

Currently, Keefer is applying to

the University of Central Florida’s dual enrolment program where the rule change does not apply. This is not an option for all juniors in Keefer’s situation because UCF requires a 3.8 GPA and a 1200 on the SAT. Keefer will start at UCF in the summer term, and if she takes a full course load for the following two terms, she will be able to graduate with an AA.

Senior Alan Kominowski is okay with the class limitations. Kominowski is currently taking humanities, algebra and economics at Valencia through dual

Scholarship program changes[ Colleges from, page 1

community service hours. In the 2010-2011 school year, the amount of community service hours needed to receive the Florida Academic Scholars award jumped from 75 to 100 hours. The Florida Medallion Scholars award added a requirement of 75 hours.

The change which may impact students the most is the need for higher SAT and ACT scores. For the graduating class of 2012, the requirement was a 1270 on the SAT and a 28 on the ACT for the FAS award. However, for the class of 2013, the requirement will be boosted to a 1280 on the SAT. For the class of 2014 and thereafter, the requirement will be a 1290 on the SAT and a 29 on the ACT. The 980 required in 2012 for the FMS award is now a 1020 for the class of 2013. Those graduating

in 2014 and beyond will have to achieve a 1170 on the SAT and a 26 on the ACT.

“It will just take more planning and preparation on the students’ and families’ part,” guidance counselor Jeanette Summers said.

Because of these new score requirements, 30 percent fewer students in the state will qualify.

“[If I didn’t receive Bright Futures], I would be disappointed, especially because my parents expect me to get it because both of my siblings did. It’s not something that I considered not getting,” Dawkins said.

These requirements are expected to affect minorities. In 2014, 49 percent of black students and 37 percent of Hispanics who now qualify will not qualify. Though test scores will affect a large portion of students who apply, senior Taj Johnson agrees with these

tougher standards.“I think the scores required are way

too low for college bound students,” Johnson, said.

One reason for these new standards is the program’s growing cost. With the establishment of Bright Futures in 1997, the cost for it was $70 million annually. Now, it is around $429 million. To solve the budget problem, less students are being awarded the scholarship. The constant changes and growing costs have made parents more skeptical of the program.

“I think the legislature will keep reducing the amount and I will have to pay more,” Chris Dawkins, Brynne’s father, said.

Students must apply after Dec. 1 and before they graduate. Applications are submitted online at www.floridastudentfinancialaid.org/SSFAD/

enrollment.“I don’t mind courses being cut

because there’s a wide amount of courses being offered,” Kominowski said.

The decision to make cuts was made by the state to save money by not giving as many free college courses. Dual enrollment is free for students, but it is paid by the state. Last year, the cost of dual enrollment in Florida was $50 million. By limiting class options to the basic high school graduation requirements, the state saves $39 million a year.

Page 5: December 2012

hi-lights thenews 5Friday, December 14, 2012 hilights.org

FINANCIAL AID INFORMATION OFFERED ON CAMPUSThere will be a Financial Aid Night on campus on Jan. 12, at 6:30 p.m. in the auditorium. Detailed information about Bright Futures, FAFSA and other financial aid will be presented. All parents and college-bound students are encouraged to attend. College financial aid representatives will be present.

MATH LAB PROVIDES QUALITY TUTORINGThe Math Lab is a free tutoring service staffed by upper level mathematics students that

offers quality help to any student who needs help with their math homework. This service is open on Tuesdays and Thursdays after school, between 2:15 and 3:15 p.m.. The Math Lab is

located in room 13.207.

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[ Homeless from, page 1months. According to CBS “Hard Times Generation: Families living in cars,” about 66 percent of families in Florida are without shelter.

“We didn’t stay [at homeless shelters] because they were packed full or had extremely long waiting lists, and also because they did not take pets and we had nowhere for our cat to go if we stayed in a shelter. Many were also located in really far-out and/or an unsafe area,” Jane Doe said.

On any given night the local shelter Coalition for the Homeless houses 250 children and their families.

“I remember that the shelter was really small. My mom and I shared a bed. I remember seeing a lot of smiling kids because they were happy to have somewhere to stay that night,” John Doe said.

According to Orlando Sentinel “Central Florida homeless students’ numbers rise for 5th year” (Nov. 26, 2012), Orange County Public Schools counted 4,844 homeless students. This is three times the number in 2009.

“Homelessness used to be defined as people walking around with carts and asking for money; now the face of homelessness is families,” Muffet

Robinson, Director of Communications & Community Relations at Coalition for the Homeless of Central Florida, said.

Because of this epidemic, different organizations have stood up and reached out to help the families affected.

The Kemosabe Kloset, located in Room 127, is one example. The Kloset gives clothes to students who are going through a hard time.

“Our main goal is to make students fit in, so that they are not considered outsiders,” Cindy Gill, Kloset volunteer, said.

The Kloset is stocked with clothes, school supplies and toiletries from students and families in the community. If students are interested in donating to the Kloset, they can bring items to the front office. Likewise, students seeking help can visit the Kloset in Room 127.

With the winter season just beginning, the homeless are finding it harder to be admitted into shelters, due to them being crowded and having long waiting lists. For this reason, when the temperatures reach 39 degrees and below the Coalition for the Homeless of Central Florida undergoes an operation called “Cold Nights.” This is when the shelter sprawls mats across their women’s shelter and allows women and children without shelter to stay for

Students face homelessness

HOMELESS VIGIL. At Covenant House’s 22nd annual Candlelight Vigil for Homeless Youth at Lake Eola on Nov. 29., formerly homeless teen talks about how the Covenant House has helped him become successful. “Hearing his story made me grateful for everything I have,” senior Brendan Ellixson said. According to the Orlando Sentinel, some 300 supporters came to the vigil.

photo/LIZZY GORDON

the night. “We’re always full, but on these

nights we make exceptions for women and children to stay the night,” Robinson said.

The Covenant House is unlike any other shelter, its focus is on helping the homeless youth.

Created in 1972, the Covenant House has been housing teens in more than 20 cities across the United States, Central America and Canada. Just last year, the president of the Covenant House, Kevin Ryan, served over 50,000 homeless teens. The Covenant House has served over 35,000 in Florida.

The shelter held its 22nd annual Candlelight Vigil for Homeless Youth on Nov. 29, at the Walt Disney Amphitheater in Lake Eola. The ceremony commemorated the teens who are homeless and those who have gotten out of homelessness.

From 2009-2010, the shelter housed 22 teens, on average, every night.

If students are in need of shelter they can call 407-482-0404 or visit the shelter to confirm a bed is available.

“[Students should help homeless youth because] we could all be in that situation. Some of their families left them. It is not their fault. Every single person can make a difference,” Ellixson said

Scan this QR code to learn more about the Kemosabe Kloset.

‘Our main goal is to make students fit in, so that they are not considered outsiders.Cindy GillKemosabe Kloset Co-Chairman

Page 6: December 2012

6 Friday, December 14, 2012 hilights.org hi-lights

featurestoriesI tried to think things would be ok, and I would be ready for competition season but when I realized what he said, I broke down. Morning Baker, freshman

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By BRIDGETTE NORRIS

On a Wednesday afternoon, freshman Morning Baker and her mother, Marcia Baker, waited for the doctor and anticipated positive feedback.

Morning had an MRI earlier in the week and assumed things improved since her diagnosis with dorsal wrist impingement. But as the doctor came back into the room, he delivered news Morning and Marcia feared.

The doctor ordered Morning to stop gymnastics on Nov. 14, after suffering dorsal wrist impingement for a year and a half, going through physical therapy and wearing a brace full time for nine to ten weeks.

“I tried to think things would be ok, and I would be ready for competition season, but when I realized what he said, I broke down. My heart stopped when I heard what the doctor said,” Morning said. “If I continued doing gymnastics the way I was, the muscles in my hand would deteriorate and I would lose the grip in my hand.”

Dorsal wrist impingement is a common injury for people involved in gymnastics, according to eorthopod.com. Statistics say 46 to 87 percent of gymnasts suffer wrist injuries or have chronic wrist pain. Morning started cheerleading around the age

of five and shortly after started gymnastics at Orlando Metro Gymnastics and Sports Club.

“We put her in cheerleading and gymnastics as something fun, but the [gymnastics coaches] came and asked her to join a team because of the potential she had. With gymnastics, you have to be invited to join a team. I was leery because she was young, and [I was] concerned it was going to be hard on her because of the extra time. Gymnastics makes it hard, nearly impossible, to do any other sports. She had to stop cheer and softball,” Marcia said.

Gymnastics consumed Morning’s time. She practiced five days a week and for 25 to 30 hours a week. Morning arranged her school schedule with no seventh period to get to practice earlier in the afternoon and get home earlier at night.

With so much time spent at the gym, she worked her way up to level seven. She also formed relationships with her coaches and fellow gymnasts.

“The gym is very family [oriented] so it feels like a family when you are there. I put a lot of trust in [my coaches] and they are [like] parental figures. My coaches push and challenge me, not only in gymnastics, but in school,” Morning said.

Competition season for gymnastics is January through May. Morning’s favorite meet was the Sand Dollar, held by Orlando Metro. Her mother states the most

memorable moment was when she received First All Around last year.

“I get really nervous and second guess myself when I compete. It’s a nervous feeling and you hope you don’t let your team or coach down or even your parents down,” Morning said.

Although the pressure to perform well is high, Morning’s parents and coaches supported her.

“Emotionally we have always supported her. Gymnastics is a sport that takes time and practice. We have always encouraged her, and [we] pray for her,” Marcia said.

Morning and her mother state the ultimate goal was to get a gymnastics scholarship for an out-of-state college and compete on the gymnastics team. Morning was especially interested in the University of Georgia or Auburn University.

“My dream of being on a college gymnastics team for the past eight years has been taken away from me. It is hard to think about,” Morning said.

With her injury prohibiting her from reaching her dream, she is looking into diving and plans on talking with former gymnasts who switched to diving.

“I have always considered diving as a backup if gymnastics didn’t work and I had to stop. Hopefully, I will be able to pursue diving or another sport similar to it,” Morning said.

photo courtesy/MARCIA BAKER

ON THE FLOOR. At the state competition last spring, freshman Morning Baker performs her floor routine. “I was really nervous because it was my state competition, and I really wanted to do well. Unfortunately, I did not make it to regionals, but it was one of my best competitions,” Baker said. With the dorsal wrist impingement, this was one of the last competitions she was able to compete in.

Page 7: December 2012

hi-lights featurestories 7Friday, December 14, 2012 hilights.org

GRADUATION DATE SETThe graduation date is set for Wed., May 29, 2013 at 8 p.m. at the Amway

Center. Make sure to order cap, gowns, and graduation announcements before the winter holidays. These can all be ordered on www.herfforlando.com or by calling the

company at 407-647-4373.

FRENCH TUTORINGFrench Honor Society is offering tutoring for students on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays in rooms 10.205 or 10.209 from 6:45 a.m. to 7:15 a.m. Students can have one-on-one sessions with French teachers Ann Ballentine or Dr. Safia Mami.

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Costumes reflect artist’s personality

Sewing Technology and Services

Mission• Prepare student for future employment in the clothing industry

Employment Opportunities

ßthe411Student aspires to open boutique in future

By DELANEE BOGAN

Designing and manufacturing her own line of clothing is senior Alexis Burney’s long term goal. Enrolled at Orlando Tech in the Sewing Technology and Services Department, she is starting to see her dreams become a reality.

“I love [being in the course] because there are so many things to learn. I had no experience in sewing before the class so I have learned a lot,” Burney said.

Tiffany Hickman is Burney’s teacher at Orlando Tech in the Sewing and Technology and Services department.

“[Burney] is good at making bows, and good with bright colors. She is learning the foundations and hand-eye coordination [skills],” Hickman said.

Burney is learning how to create aprons, skirts and shirts. She has also learned how to make different garments and has been selling her products on Etsy.com, an online website that allows one to sell homemade products.

Everything she sells is homemade. On Etsy she sells vintage inspired clothes and accessories. Burney’s company name on Etsy is Sweet Sovereign.

“Garments are art, and I want people

to see my vision for garments. [I put my garments online because] I want to be critiqued,” Burney said.

For homecoming, she made junior Gabriel Houston a silk lavender bow tie to match with his outfit.

“I was amazed [after I got my bow tie back]. It was exactly what I wanted and it didn’t have any flaws. I loved it,” Houston said.

She also makes other garments for students on campus as well.

“I would want Alexis to design my whole wardrobe if she would. She is so creative,” Houston said.

Burney likes to design and make costumes rather than fashion.

“I like costumes more than fashion because it has more freedom. Fashion is more of a linear type of business, and costumes go all out. I am a very colorful person [so I like creating costumes more],” Burney said.

Burney plans to open a boutique to sell her own clothes and garments. The course at Orlando Tech has helped her become closer to achieving her goal.

“[I enrolled at Orlando Tech because I was] tired of seeing my designs on paper. I have been an artist for a long time so I was excited to see my work come to life. The program has helped my art become reality,” Burney said.

CREATE IT. Enrolled in the Sewing Technology and Services Department at Orlando Tech, senior Alexis Burney learns how to convey her ideas into sketches and ultimately into different types of clothing. “I was inspired by the 80s [for this sketch]. I like the use of a 3D element when making a dress. I want it to have shiny texture and a modern shape. It will be futuristic and cute,” Burney said. Burney created a dress similar to this sketch.

illustration/ALEXIS BURNEY

Study

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Length of program• 900 hours

Starting Salary Range• $27,040 to $31,200

Page 8: December 2012

8 Friday, December 14, 2012 hilights.org hi-lights

specialfeature ‘I think we’re more likely to have a zombie apocalypse than the world ending, [but] more in the sense of the bubonic plague.William King, U.S. History teacher

Conspiracy Theories question reality

ßcreatureprofi le

Bigfoot

The Bigfoot, or Sasquatch, is described as a large, hairy, two-legged humanoid beast between 6-to-10 feet tall and over 500 lbs. It is reported to inhabit the northwest region of North America.

Stories of a large, hairy “wildman” have dated back to the early 1800s.

By LIA VILLAR

Watching director Roland Emmerich’s 2012,

one cannot ignore the troubling scenes of the Californian earthquakes and meteor showers raining upon Earth.

The chaos that ensued on Earth in 2012, not only enhances “end of the world” beliefs, but for freshman Hailey Dragon, the world coming to an end is more than a possibility.

“I don’t believe it’s going to happen, but a part of me does.

There is so much scientific evidence to

back it up,” Dragon said.

The discussions on the end of the world comes

from the Mayan calendars that were used to track time

in linear progressions within

By THOMAS EGAN

The myths of unknown creatures, despite the lack of any solid evidence, have entertained and stimulated the imaginations of people for centuries.

Bigfoot, werewolves, the Loch Ness Monster and El Chupacabra

are legendary creatures that have transcended pop culture and folklore. These legends have attracted a massive following all

across the world and have inspired TV shows, such as MonsterQuest, books and even a pseudoscience known as cryptozoology, the study of “hidden” animals and supernatural beings.

Stemming from recent sightings and discoveries, these “monsters” can be considered modern myths, but others have longer histories dating back centuries ago to ancient mythology, like the Yeti of the Himalayan mountains.

This purported beast, also known as

the Abominable Snowman, is rumored to stalk the high peaks of Nepal and Tibet and described as an ape-like, hairy creature that is taller than the average human male and walks on two feet. The Buddhist indigenous people told stories of a “Glacier Beast,” who they saw as the God of the Hunt.

The Loch Ness Monster, also called Nessie, became famous after Dr. Kenneth Wilson snapped the famed “Surgeon’s Photograph,” a blurry image of a dark figure, which he said was the Loch Ness Monster, protruding out of the water, in 1934.

The famous photograph of the Loch Ness Monster was revealed to be a hoax in 1975 by the Daily Telegraph. Dr. Wilson staged the photo with a small submarine. Most Bigfoot sightings have been revealed to be nothing more than men in hairy suits.

Despite the abundance of

Mythical monsters stalk imagination

cycles. These “Great Cycles” of the Mayan calendar add up to 5,125.36 years, hence the end of the world would occur on the winter solstice of 2012, which is Dec. 21.

Others, however, believe the end of the cycle means humanity will be introduced to a new age of enlightenment, manifested with significant mental and physical changes, rather than the world coming to an end.

“[2012 theories] are a bunch of hocus pocus. If we believe in 2012, then [we] might as well believe in Nostradamus. [He] was considered a fortune teller and came up with similar [beliefs],” U.S. History teacher William King said.

According to Time magazine scientist Sven Gronemeyer, the Mayan stone tablet’s inscriptions describe the return of a Mayan god of war.

“[This is like] the [year] 2k bug. [It] was another scare tactic. I think we’re more likely to have a zombie apocalypse than the world ending, [but] more in the sense of the bubonic plague,” King said.

The theory of the Year 2000 bug was a problem with the coding of computerized systems which people

Mayan myth inspires chaos

By ANNA MARIE BORIA

Conspiracy theories have had people questioning what is fact or fiction since the early days of the first millennium,

with the first theory recorded claiming Jesus was married

to Mary Magdalene. A more

eccent r i c theory

claims that the elites of the world are blood-drinking, shape-shifting reptilian humanoids whose only objective is to enslave the human race.

Conspiracy theories range from the existence of extraterrestrials to the end of the modern world. These theories have impacted the entertainment world in multiple ways. Sparking television programs spotlighting people with extraterrestrial encounters and

blockbusters such as the end of the world movie 2012.

A recent survey from U.S. News and World Report shows that 36 percent of people believe that aliens have visited the Earth, and over 80 percent believe the government has kept information about UFOs a secret from the public.

This shows, how much conspiracy theories can mold public opinion.

In recent history, multiple conspiracy

theories like the Manhattan atomic bomb testing Project have been proven to be fact which makes one wonder if current theories are really conspiracy.

Highlighting other popular conspiracy theories such as creatures, the Bermuda Triangle and the Illuminati, this special spread takes a deeper look into the theories that question reality.

feared would cause havoc affecting computers all over the world at the beginning of the year 2000. The problem was not only limited to computers, but to any device containing computer chips such as elevators or medical equipment.

Moreover, in Scientific American’s article, “NASA Crushes 2012 Mayan Apocalypse Claims,” Don Yeomans, head of the Near-Earth Objects Program Office at NASA/JPL, states that the Mayan calendar shows the ending of a cycle and the beginning of a new one.

“There’s [information] to back [2012] theories up. I’ve heard the planets aligning [and the Earth] blowing up. The aspect that it might happen is always a possibility,” Dragon said.

However, Yeomans explains that if a planetary alignment happens, there would be no tidal effects on the Earth.

Yet with accredited scientists disproving the Mayan calendar myths, Dragon remains skeptical.

“Part of me does believe in [2012]. [With Hurricane Sandy, I thought] it was ironic and [shows how] you can’t really prepare for [the end of the world],” Dragon said.

profi le

It is reported to inhabit the northwest region of North America.

Stories of a large, hairy “wildman” have dated back to the early 1800s.

Mythical monsters stalk imagination

disproving the Mayan calendar myths,

“Part of me does believe in [2012]. [With Hurricane Sandy, I thought] it was ironic and [shows how] you can’t really prepare for [the end of the

contradictory evidence, these legendary creatures will always hold a place in people’s imagination because of their mysterious attraction and the possibility of their existence.

Page 9: December 2012

hi-lights specialfeature 9Friday, December 14, 2012 hilights.org

FINANCE TEACHER RECEIVES HONORBill Daniel, Boone Teacher of the Year, is one of the fi ve fi nalists for OCPS Teacher of the Year. At an awards ceremony on Feb. 28, Superintendent Dr. Barbara Jenkins will announce the winner. This is Daniel’s fi rst time receiving the Teacher of The Year award.

SPANISH DEPARTMENT SPONSORS LLAMASTo help needy families in Peru, the Spanish Department is collecting donations. All mon-ies will help purchase llamas, which are essential to everyday life in Peru. For more

information talk to Miguelina De La Cruz-Sosa in Room 10.219. The fund raiser ends on Dec. 19.

Conspiracy Theories question reality

Organization keeps plot under wraps

By HEATHER JANAS

United States government officials assured people it was simply a weather balloon, not a UFO. On July 8, 1947, in Roswell, New Mexico, an unidentified flying object supposedly crashed. The incident was the spark of “UFO fever” in the United States.

In Roswell, New Mexico, on July 1, 1976, another UFO sighting occurred.

A man claimed to be walking home from a friend’s house at night when an egg-shaped object flew above him.

Area 51 and Roswell are theorized to be two storage sites for crashed UFOs.

Area 51 is under extreme surveillance and is classified “top secret” by the United States government.

There is not proof that extraterrestrials exist or that Area 51 and Roswell have connections to aliens, but conspiracy theorists support the ideas that alien spaceships crashed in those two areas.

“I believe there are many strange things in the universe. It is so big; we cannot be the only things [out there],”

junior Dakota Jones said. The existence of aliens is a notion

that people view differently.There is no way to prove that aliens

or UFOs are among us“It is more or less an impossibility

that [aliens] do not [exist],” sophomore Christian Ketcham said.

One man dedicates his time to UFO and extraterrestrial research.

Retired United States Army Colonel John Alexander searches for evidence to prove their existence.

While in the Army, he believes he saw what seemed to be a UFO.

“I have never seen a UFO, [and] I would rather not. [Although] I know they are out there,” Ketcham said.

Because of such heavy surveillance around Roswell, New Mexico and Area 51, conspiracy theorists believe the government is hiding secrets.

According to Colonel Alexander’s book, UFOs: Myths, Conspiracies and Realities, he thinks it is logical that if extraterrestrial life does exist, Area 51 would be involved.

Mythical monsters stalk imagination

of two of the U.S. Navy’s vessels, the U.S.S. Cyclops (1918) and Flight 19 (1945). There is still no evidence for these disappearances. People believe the Triangle is an epicenter of alien abductions or sea monsters.

“I think people believe what they have been told for so many years. Also, because it’s mysterious,” sophomore Ariel Collier said.

Conspirator Gian Quasar has documented the Triangle for over 20 years. Quasar has gathered more than 350 cases, nearly half are disappearances. Quasar’s collection is the largest private repository of reports.

According to history.com’s topic section, more than 50 ships and 20

Disappearances remain evidenceless

theorists claim that many notable people are members of the Illuminati such as Jay-Z, Kanye West and Lady Gaga

One of the key accomplices in the Illuminati conspiracy theory is Myron Fagan, a famous American writer, producer and director. He devoted his later years to finding evidence that a variety of historical events like the Battle of Waterloo, The French Revolution and the JFK assassination by infiltrating the Hollywood film industry, in which he found that they were all orchestrated by the Illuminati.

There are many pieces of evidence that help the case for one to accept the Illuminati’s beliefs and prove what they

have accomplished is accurate and true.“I think people that are accepted in

society and that are very convincing, such as the Hollywood stars, Kanye West and Jay-Z, who sing about the Illuminati in a majority of their songs, make it easier for people to believe in it” sophomore Kyndall Webster said.

It is believed that the famous hip-hop rapper Jay-Z is part of the Illuminati because of his descriptions in songs such as Most Kingz he refers to the Illuminati and says that they were associated with the death of Michael Jackson, Tupac and Biggie Smalls. When asked what his association with the Illuminati was, he just laughed.

airplanes have vanished in the Triangle. Opposed to aircrafts, ships have to factor in a strong ocean current known as the Gulf Stream. History.com’s Frequently Asked Questions, states this current can erase proof of accidents.

Coast Guard History FAQ states they do not recognize the Triangle as a geographic area of specific danger because they believe the Triangle is harmless to ships or planes.

“[Existence of the Triangle,] is something to believe in and people crave that, whether it’s a good thing or bad thing,” Hill said.

The facts behind the Bermuda Triangle mystery have yet to be uncovered.

Dakota Jones,junior

Why do you think people get so freaked out by aliens? Well, they should. Who wouldn’t be? We don’t know what they can do if they’re real.

What would you do if you were ever abducted by aliens?I don’t know; I hope I never get abducted.

Have you ever seen a uFO?No.

What would you do if you saw an alien?I don’t know, I’d most likely be welcoming.

Questions continue hoveringßquestionanswer

Disappearances remain evidenceless

Organization keeps plot under wraps By JOSH HALLORAN

Illuminati refers to a conspiratorial organization, which is alleged to mastermind events and control world affairs through governments and businesses to establish a New World Order.

The thought of this dates back to the late 1700’s when the local citizens referred it to as a Bavarian Illuminati; the German philosopher Adam Weishaupt first originated the conspiracy.

The modern day conspiracy theory is that a majority of the world events that happen are being controlled and manipulated by a secret society calling itself the Illuminati. Conspiracy

By JORDAN KNIGHT

When one thinks of setting sail or boarding a plane, the last thought one has is disappearing. The Bermuda Triangle places the possibility of this happening in one’s face.

Also known by its nickname “Devil’s Triangle,” it is located off the southeastern Atlantic coast of the United States. It is known for the disappearance of ships and aircrafts.

“It’s just like a mystery story. No one really knows if it’s true or not,” senior Shelby Hill said.

The Triangle has three points, roughly Miami, Puerto Rico and Bermuda. This conspiracy theory began 58 years ago with the disappearance

Page 10: December 2012

10 Friday, December 14, 2012 hilights.org hi-lights

sports We have a lot of chemistry. Last year we had a lot of talent, but we played as individuals. We’re a lot more serious this year.Ivan Kaled, junior

Players seek district titleBoys’ soccer team is determined to make a comeback

photo/CIARA MCCOY

KICK. On Dec. 5 at home against Colonial, goalie Noah Franklin kicks the ball down the field to one of his teammates. “[Making varsity] felt really accomplished. It’s one of the best things that’s happened for me this year so far,” Franklin, sophomore said. The boys will go against Freedom at home tonight at 7:30 p.m.

By CIARA MCCOY

Being better than previous years has always been the goal of the boys’ soccer team, but this season they are more determined than ever.

The boys have not lost a game at home since last year and are 16-0 for home games. They also beat Osceola (2-1) this season opposed to last season when they lost (0-6).

“It’s an accomplishment that we’ve kept our winning streak at home. There is a lot less attitude and a lot more mutual respect from everybody,” sophomore Noah Franklin said.

Junior Ivan Kaled thinks this team is better than previous years’. He believes in the coaching staff and treating the players as individuals.

“We have a lot of chemistry. Last year we had a lot of talent, but we played as individuals. We’re a lot more serious this year,” Kaled said.

Practices directly affect how the team does in the games.

“[Practices] can be frustrating, but they unite the group,” senior Connor Wood said.

As the season progresses, the boys work more as a team. They have come together and everyone is communicating. This change in attitude is reflected in their ability to play well in games.

The three captains, seniors Juan Caceres, Connor Wood and Jonathan Craig are key players. They not only are strong players, but they provide

leadership on the field each game. Franklin is one of the team’s goalies

and had 13 saves in their game against Osceola, Caceres has two hat tricks, and Craig leads the team with six assists. Caceres currently leads the team with 19 goals.

“It all starts from the beginning [of the season]; we grow and communicate. Everybody is a smart player and we’ve been playing for a while,” Franklin said.

The boys are currently 4-2-2 with 17 games left in the season.

Every time they experience a loss they rework their strategy and learn from it.

“We are definitely a lot more focused; the kids on the team take it more seriously than last year. We did have more talent but we work as a team this year. Last year one player would try to do it all himself,” Kaled said.

Part of the change comes from the new coaching staff. Last year was coach Bobby Hurring’s first year but since this year is his second year, the boys have had more time to mesh together and get on the same page.

The boys feel he has a lot of experience and gets them pumped and ready to play their best.

“Our team has one more year of experience under the current coaching staff and very strong senior leadership. Most importantly, all of our players give us 100 percent each day,” assistant coach Trent Frederick said.

In the end, the boys main goal is to make it past districts and to states. They believe time and effort will make moving on to the playoffs a definite possibility.

Girls’ soccer team gains confidence through teamwork

By KARINA FLORES

As tensions run high on the field, the girls’ varsity soccer team maintains unprecedented chemistry this season, acting as one team for a common goal.

“When something happens on the field, something we did wrong, we know how to laugh about it because we’re all friends. We know we aren’t going to be awkward. We can pick everyone up,” senior captain Sloane Hudkins said.

The girls are currently 9-2-1 and head coach Brooke Smith anticipates the wins will continue to lead. They lost to Apopka High School (3-1) on Nov. 13. Mid-fielder senior Alexandra Clayton scored the only goal. Since their defeat, the team has come together and maintained a four game winning streak.

“We win as a team, and we lose as a team. Our good wins are due to us playing as one, using communication

and putting in effort on the field,” sophomore forward Emily Stearns said.

The teams’ success can also be attributed to captains senior Alexandra Clayton and senior Kayla Combs. Their dedication and skills on the field, along with their friendship off the field, motivates each other to improve.

These key players along with the other six seniors motivate the majority of the team made up of sophomores and juniors. The new additions to the team have brought on a new level of competition and have helped the team maintain their winning streak.

According to Smith, every player has to compete for a starting position and if one slacks off, they can be taken out very easily. Clayton and Combs lead by example, driving the underclassmen to be leaders themselves.

“The girls want to win and are willing to work hard for it. There is not just one leader on our team. We have many leaders at all ages,” Smith said.

Their strong win against East River High School (8-0) displays the teams’

confidence and talent gained through their newfound chemistry. Stearns and junior Sabdie Alvarado each scored two goals. Sophomore Kennedy Heath, juniors Rachel Bridewell and Dyana Herrera and senior Heidi Hill each tallied a goal. Stearns, Alvarado and Clayton each contributed with assists.

Smith believes the team will be able to qualify for districts and be able to compete in the final four. Improved communication, creative plays, leadership and team cohesiveness are qualities that will take the team further in the district finals.

“We have the talent and confidence to take on the usual top performers in our district,” Smith said.

The girls have four more games for the season until the district quarterfinals on Jan. 14.

So far the girls displayed defensive and offensive prowess by blowing out Cypress Creek (4-0), Edgewater (6-1), and Lake Nona (8-0).

The girls host the last home game against West Orange on Dec. 20.

Strong ties, high standards

CHASING THE GOAL. At the home game against Wekiva High School, junior forward Sabdie Alvarado makes her way to score one of the goals ensuring the team’s victory (4-0). “I practice my hardest everyday to play the best I can for my team and myself every game,” Alvarado said. The girls have high hopes to make it to the final four.

photo/KARINA FLORES

Page 11: December 2012

hi-lights sports 11Friday, December 14, 2012 hilights.org

PUNTER INVITED TO ARMY GAMEBraves’ punter senior John Townsend will play in the annual U.S. Army All American Bowl Game. The game will air live on NBC Jan. 5. at 1 p.m..

BOYS DEFEND FOR DISTRICTSBoys’ soccer continues to dominate on the field en route to districts by only allowing two goals in three games while putting up an astounding 19 points. The boys take on Lake Nona on Dec. 18 at

7:30 p.m. at home.

Tn

IChase Gardner, sports editor

In the Zone

Athletes earn pay

Every time the topic of professional sports is brought up, the same complaint is uttered by at least one person, “athletes are paid way too much for nothing.” Bull.

Athletes get paid large sums of money because of a crucial asset that sets them apart from everyone else; they can do things other people couldn’t even imagine doing. Not just any average Joe can snag a ball in the end zone while double covered like Brandon Marshall or hit three homeruns in one game like Pablo Sandoval. It takes raw talent, persistence, dedication and years of training. Saying they don’t deserve what they get is downright ignorant. Fans watch them, fans pay them, so complaining won’t help.

Athletes have a constant rain cloud over their head; it’s called contract termination. No owner wants to pay $18 million a year for someone who rides the bench due to an injury. An athlete that has to be put down will be lucky if he can recover and be resigned. Not every athlete is as lucky as Bronco’s quarterback Peyton Manning. It’s a sad truth, but it is always a possibility. Then add to the fact that the average athlete only works 10 years due to the wear and tear on the knees, back and even the brain. Sports don’t get easier with age either.

The competition puts them not only through a physical, but a mental test. Players are under the microscope constantly, people analyze every little mistake they make and it can drive the players to insanity or depression. Most recently was the Jovan Belcher incident where the Chiefs’ linebacker murdered his girlfriend and killed himself.

Even after they retire, high contact sports like football or boxing lead to severe brain damage. Boxing legend Muhammad Ali lives with Parkinson syndrome from the high impact hits to the head. Higher risk in the field, merits higher pay, especially if the terms affect life after the job.

Yes, there will always be whiners that never stop going on about how “teachers provide futures” or “our soldiers deserve it more.” Sure, soldiers and teachers are great, they’re vital, but the pay situation all comes down to simple economics. There are a lot more soldiers and teachers than there are Lionel Messi’s. Until Mr. Porterfield can score a hat trick or pitch a perfect game, he’ll have to settle.

Don’t like these athletes making millions of dollars for just “swinging a bat” or “driving a car?” Then here’s a simple solution: don’t watch it. These athletes have worked to perfect their craft to entertain and inspire youth. They work just as hard as everyone else if not harder with year long training. They earn every penny they make.

By KALEY GILBERT

Team triumphs over allWith a current record of 11-0,

the girls’ soccer team is on the victory path. They started strong defeating Lyman, 1-0, and have continued that

success with wins.“ W e ’ v e

really pulled together to make a lot more wins.

We’ve become a family instead of just

a team,” freshman Ciara Tobin said.

Next the girls defeated Cypress Creek, East River and Lake Nona winning 8-0. At Lake Nona the girls were lead by sophomore Claire

Collins who scored three goals. Sophomore Mackenzie Chambers and freshman Kristen Recker each earned two with another goal from freshman Monica Almirall.

“I’m really excited about it and proud of my

teammates. Since I’m goalie, I haven’t seen a lot of action during the games, but I

JV Briefs: Winter sports start stronghope it continues,” Tobin said.

The girls play Winter Park away on Dec. 18.

Athletes remain optimistic despite challenges With an initial win against Apopka, 3-2, the boys’ soccer team started strong. But keeping up the wins is harder than expected. The team’s second game against Lake Highland ended in defeat, 0-2. “Our biggest challenge is keeping a consistent record of wins,” sophomore Andrew Dawson said. The boys were able to come back with a win against Edgewater, 2-1, with goals from freshman Mark Bagozzi. The next three games were losses followed by two tied games. In their next game against Colonial the boys earned two goals from freshman Phillip Crowe, ending in a win, 2-0. Currently, their record is 3-4-2. The team takes on Lake Nona at home on Dec. 18. Their season closes away with a game against Ocoee on Jan. 18.

Players keep improvements in sight In their first game, the girls’ basketball team lost to University, 29-37. However, they bounced back the second game with a win against Wekiva, 45-20. “They have a strong will to win. I’ve

seen them go down, but fight back,” head coach Jerry Williams said. The next game started out bad with a 17-2 shortage, but the girls fought hard resulting in a close loss to West Orange, 24-25. The girls’ next three games were two losses with a win against Lake Nona, 36-33. The girls were able to secure the win some with some much needed free throws. “I’m hoping to improve every single game. If it’s win or lose, [I’m hoping] we can learn from our mistakes,” sophomore Nyaliny Ruach said. They play East River away on Dec. 19.

Players start off strong, keep hopes high With a strong opening game against Lake Highland, the boys’ basketball team walked away victorious 62-52. “[I want] to have fun and win a lot of games and just be a better player,” sophomore Donald Hill said. Next, they took on Oak Ridge, winning 61-57. Their third game against West Orange was point for point, until the referee called a shooting foul on the last shot. The boys lost in a close game, 54-55. The team’s current record is 2-1. “I feel mad about it still, but I’ll get over it. It’s just one game,” Hill said. Next, the boys take on Cypress Creek away at 7:30 p.m. Dec. 19. They will finish their season with an away game against Wekiva Feb. 2.

Post poor season, wrestlers attempt reversalBoys hope to improve on last year’s record

By CONOR CuRRY

According to head coach Derrick Fontaine, the biggest challenge will be nailing down technique and teaching the newer wrestlers.

Last year, the varsity wrestling team put up a frustrating 2-4 record. Despite this less than stellar record, the team is optimistic for the upcoming season.

“Actually, I think we’ll do pretty well this year. It’s a long season, and our guys have learning to do,” head coach Derrick Fontaine said.

Some key wrestlers, according to Fontaine, are seniors Joseph Holmes, Quante Cobb and freshman Luke Magley.

To prepare for the upcoming season, practices are based heavily on conditioning such as sprints and weight lifting. There is a general consensus of respect and trust in Fontaine about conditioning among all the wrestlers.

“He’s everywhere; he’s in our minds. He can bring you down but then lift you right back up,” Holmes said.

With a larger team, the boys will be able to fill more weight classes, a

serious problem last year. Without a wrestler in every weight class, the team was forced to forfeit matches. These forfeits caused an unbalanced record, something Fontaine strives to change. Currently, there are 57 boys taking up 14 weight classes.

According to Holmes, the lack of recruitment last year was due to the coach being located off campus. Having Fontaine as a teacher on campus has

Wrastlin’. Senior captain Joseph Holmes grapples at practice. “I like to wrestle because it’s a stress reliever, it gets rid of my anger,” Holmes said. Holmes has wrestled varsity all four years.

photo/CONOR CURRY

helped spread the word, and the team has more members as a result.

At press date, the team lost their first match 30-40 to University on Wednesday, Dec. 5.

“I know Timber Creek, Lake Nona and West Orange are good. It’s a tough district. Right now, we have to assume everyone is good,” Fontaine said.

Next, the boys take on Wekiva and Evans on Dec. 13 at home at 6 p.m.

Donald Hill, sophomore

Page 12: December 2012

12 Friday, December 14, 2012 hilights.org sports hi-lightsSOFTBALL LOOKS FOR TALENTSoftball tryouts are Jan. 7-Jan. 9 on the softball field from 3 p.m.-5:30 p.m. There is also pre-season conditioning on the field Dec. 18 and Dec. 20.

GIRLS WANT DISTRICTSGirls’ weight-lifting has started off shaky with a loss at home against Freedom and University. The Lady Braves look to head to the sub district meet at Freedom Jan. 9.

FREE THROW. After being fouled, sophomore Cassandra Ketchum prepares to shoot a free throw. “I have been really excited with how I have been doing this season. I have been achieving my goals so far,” Ketchum said. The team is 9-2 so far this season.

photo/MEGHAN COTTON

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Rimmer chooses Stanford Top recruit commits to nationally ranked university

By MACKENZIE MOCK

After years of dreaming of playing college basketball, senior Robert “Schuyler” Rimmer signed with one of the most demanding academic and athletic schools in the country, Stanford University.

Ever since he was young, Rimmer hoped to play collegiate basketball. Rimmer started taking basketball more seriously in middle school, but did not realize he could compete with the players in college until he began playing in high school and realized no other local team had a kid as tall as 6’9”.

He made sure he did everything possible to make his dreams come true. He dedicated himself to the sport, played on travel teams and quit all other sports, like volleyball and soccer, to put his main focus on basketball.

“Playing basketball in college was just an idea when I was in middle school, but once I got to high school it became a reality. My first offer was from Dartmouth when I was in eighth grade. After that, the offers just started

coming,” Rimmer said. Rimmer received offers from

the University of Central Florida, Tennessee Tech and Virginia Tech University, but he did not understand what he wanted out of a school until his sophomore year.

Rimmer has been captain since his junior year. Rimmer says playing for Boone has prepared him for college ball. “The team would be a lot different without Schuyler. I have played with him for all three years on varsity. I think the game would get a lot harder,” junior team member Barry Taylor said.

Rimmer’s first verbal commitment was to the University of Florida, but soon after, he de-committed from the school and looked at other offers.

“I think there was just some stuff left out that Schuyler didn’t know about Florida. Stanford is a great decision for him though because he knows he’ll get to play a lot and he loves the guys in California,” Taylor said.

After de-committing from Florida, Rimmer looked at the offers and narrowed his decision to four schools: University of Virginia, Vanderbilt University, University of Southern

California and Stanford University. To help with his decision, Rimmer

took official visits with his parents to each of the schools. The family said all of them went well. While at the schools, he tried to envision himself there for the next four years of his life.

“The whole recruiting process was exhausting. Each visit was like 48 hours of subtle sales pitches. One of the coaches told us, ‘If you don’t have a good time, someone didn’t do their job right’,” Rimmer’s mother, Elizabeth Rimmer said.

In the end, Rimmer chose Stanford, which is sixth academically in the nation, feeling it was the best overall school.

I chose where I felt the most comfortable and where I was going to do the best. Plus the coaching staff there has the best plan for me. It focuses on my height and works around my strengths,” Rimmer said.

Rimmer, his family, friends and his coach and teammates all agreed Stanford was the right choice for him.

“I think Schuyler will fit into the system very well. He will be successful due to their system fitting his strengths,” head coach Gregory Shirley said.

Leadership on, off the courtGirls’ varsity shows what it means to be a team

By MEGHAN COTTON

Demonstrating leadership on and off the court, seniors Celeste Martin and Bailey Florin lead the girls’ varsity basketball team.

Florin, who has committed to the University of North Florida with a full-ride scholarship, has been playing basketball since she was 5-years-old.

“You can tell she works hard, and she doesn’t like to lose. She definitely stood up to the plate to lead the team,” freshman Madison Gonzalez said.

Florin expects to play out her four years at UNF. After that, she has no intention to continue playing.

“[Bailey] is going to be very successful. She has the mechanics and fundamentals to be successful in her post-secondary athletic career,” coach Jerry Williams said.

Florin and Martin are the team’s only two seniors. They work together as captains to focus the girls and bring

them closer as a team.“We both want to be serious, but

fun at the same time. We feed off each other’s energy,” Martin said.

Martin, who has been playing since she was 6-years-old, has no intent to play basketball in college. She has decided to focus on her education to become a teacher.

Florin and Martin were welcoming and encouraging to the four freshmen who made the team.

“We help them stay positive when it gets hard,” Florin said.

With a 9-2 record and half the season left, the team continues to prepare for the upcoming games.

“We want to be able to grow and contend [and] try to win districts against the number one team, Dr. Phillips,” Florin said.

Last season, the girls lost to Dr. Phillips, 76-35, in the district finals. They finished the season with an 18-10 overall record.

“[I want] to give back my experience to a group of girls who have the passion and hunger to be successful in the

game,” first season head coach Jerry Williams said.

That hunger and determination shows in the girls’ play.

On Dec. 1, in the game against Lake Nona, the game was tied after three quarters. With Florin’s 20 points pacing the team, they took control to defeat the Lions, 40-34.

Florin also demonstrated leadership earlier in the season home opener against the West Orange Warriors. After falling behind 12 points, Florin had a late run and scored 28 points. The Warriors lost the battle, 48-47.

“It is nice to have the younger girls look up to you. It is a lot on your shoulders but you know other people are relying on it so you pull through it,” Florin said.

The girls encourage each other throughout the season. They do not direct negative comments towards one another. They remain positive even through the games they lost.

“I feel like I bring a positive energy to everything so we have brighter spirits when we play,” Martin said.

photo/EMILY NUSBICKEL

FIGHT FOR IT. In anticipation of catching the ball, Rimmer jumps to snag it . “Everyone wants to be state champs, but I don’t want to be superstitious about it,” Rimmer said. The team is 4-2 so far this season.

hi-lights

Page 13: December 2012

13

Pirates threaten digital prosperity

access to information they felt should be freely distributed. As of Jan. 15, 2012, the bill is inactive. Representative Eric Cantor, a major proponent of the bill, said it would not return until a consensus could be reached on amendments and provisions to the bill.

“I think it is important that artists receive compensation and credit for the work they produce,” senior Joseph Collazo said. “However, I don’t believe it should be the government’s responsibility. The Internet is so vast, that there is little hope to believe that every song can be completely secured, and I think any money or resources put toward that belief can be better allocated.”

Torrenting, or BitTorrenting, is a process by which users can distribute large amounts of data over a peer-to-peer network. Though illegal, torrenting simplifies and accelerates downloading processes by allowing users multiple sources to download from.

With less downloads per source, large files such as movies or collections of music can be downloaded quickly and quietly. Torrent sites notoriously encrypt all data as a means of preventing legal action of copyright infringement.

Websites such as what.cd take even more steps of precaution. This torrent site is a members only, invite only peer-to-peer sharing network. To log on to the site, one must have received an invitation from an already existing user.

Furthermore, once on the site, one must uphold the set ratio for uploading and downloading: Uploading must be greater than or equal to downloading. This ensures that all members contribute, and no one takes advantage of the site.

However safe and secure a torrent site claims to be, one who participates in the piracy of software can still find himself walking the plank of the criminal justice system.

Copyright holders can make cases for lawsuits that sue the offender for upwards of $1,000 per song. And with the mass quantities music is downloaded in, this could spell trouble for those who do not cover their tracks sufficiently.

Evidence of this can be seen by the events leading to the closing of LimeWire.

In 2011, a court order closed LimeWire, a popular file sharing site. Sony Music and Warner later filed a lawsuit against LimeWire, who eventually paid both companies $105 million. LimeWire also immediately closed their site following the lawsuit.

There are alternatives to piracy. Other programs have made it possible to listen to all the music listens one wants without costing a dime. Legally. Swedish programmer Daniel Elk created Spotify, the “Social Music Network” as a way to have the complete musical experience at any time, without worry of legal repercussions.

Spotify functions freely to its users by allowing advertisers to play radio style advertisements. An artist whose song plays on Spotify earns half of a penny per listen.

“[I think Spotify’s artist compensation is a fair deal.] People use Spotify a lot, and it’s better than not getting anything for a torrent,” senior Kaylee Schmidt said. “There will always be new music being made, but [Spotify] could potentially hinder artists financially. It also gives them more exposure.”

Now fully partnered with Facebook, Spotify allows one to send tracks, albums and playlists to friends via social networking.

While a premium service, which brings additional features such as mobile streaming, is offered to those who pay a monthly fee of $9.99, unlimited listening is available to any registered user in the United States.

Price: Free, optional premium ($9.99)

Features: Social media based music sharing, music apps, mobile streaming

Description: A Swedish, musical take on social networking, Spotify allows unlimited listens to a vast library of music. Users can share, rate and make playlists with their favorite tracks, which can be posted to Facebook. Premium service offers unlimited mobile streaming, offl ine listening and the removal of ads between tracks. Complete with apps to help users discover new music, Spotify is tailored to helping one listen to already familiar and favorited music.

Spotify

PandoraPrice: Free

Features: Personalized radio stations, responds to user’s musical tastes

Description: A part of the “Music Genome Project,” Pandora radio is a free, analysis based radio program that selects tracks based on the user’s known tastes and preferences in genre, and artist. Songs are analyzed by over 450 different qualities, and Pandora’s library is continually updated with oldies and up-and-comers alike. Users select a favorite artist, and Pandora creates a radio station consisting of music similar to the initially selected artist.

Friday, December 14, 2012 hilights.orghi-lights

artsentertainment

[ Piracy, from page 1

Page 14: December 2012

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14 artsentertainment hi-lightsSEMESTER EXAMS Dec. 21 will be the last day of school before break. On Jan. 14, a week after school resumes from the holiday break, semester exams begin.

CLUBS ELECT SWEETHEART COURTThe Senior Class Council is sponsoring the 23rd annual Sweetheart Court. Students involved in clubs elect two seniors to represent their club for court. These students will be recognized Jan. 29 at half-time of the basketball game against Celebration.

Holy Smoke serves southern style

By GAVIN WATERSRecently established, Holy Smoke

BBQ brings the small town country feel to the otherwise busy and crowded Curry Ford and Crystal Lake area.

Located in the strip mall between Peel and Crystal Lake, next to the Winn Dixie, the bland strip mall is broken up by wood trellises and a country-themed waiting area giving an escape from the bustling surroundings. Although still noisy from the busy road, the restaurant is the perfect casual family eatery.

In the dining room, the soft country background music and quiet atmosphere gives the perfect ambiance for a date or family dinner. However, if one is looking for a place to watch the big game, the bar offers flat screen TVs.

The beans and corn bread to start the meal are complimentary and make you feel like you are in grandma’s kitchen; they prepare your pallet for the slow cooked meats and homemade sides.

Appetizers range from fried okra $4.99 to a chef salad $9.99. Appetizers are on the smaller side meant to be split between two people. With large groups, this can be pricey.

The hush puppies are the best appetizer by far. They are crunchy on

Family owned restaurant brings country feel to Conway area

the outside with a soft, cake-like inside coated with honey butter, and there were enough of them for the whole table to get a sufficient amount. Also, the french fries were a great appetizer for a large group because everyone gets their share. The fries are second best and offer enough to feed everyone and are deliciously crunchy and seasoned.

The main course prices range from a simple cheeseburger $4.99 to a bone-in 18 ounce Rib Eye $25.99. All meats are dry rubbed and slow-cooked in an old hickory smoker and hand carved to specifications when ordered.

The Sliced Pork sandwich is tender and smoked to perfection, melting in one’s mouth. For $6.99, one can get the sandwich and one side.

Being a new restaurant, the staff is really helpful explaining the menu and giving suggestions. Waiters can be unkind to teens because they typically do not tip, but the waiter helped us save money and even let us sample a few items before ordering; (we did tip).

Even though a small mom and pop restaurant, they still accept all major credit cards and, of course, cash.

However friendly, the staff took a while to get the food and bill out, though this could be because it is a new restaurant and will improve with time.

Overall, it is not an ideal place for students to hangout, but it is a good place for a family dinner.

SLOW COOKED. Small batch, slow-cooked beans with delectable cornbread bites are complimentary at the beginning of every meal. “The food was great. The portions were small, but the service made up for that,” sophomore Conor Curry said. All of the food at Holy Smoke is small batch and slow-cooked to perfection.

photo/GAVIN WATERS

Where: 3000 Curry Ford Rd.,Orlando, FL 32806

When: Sun-Thur: 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Fri-Sat:11 a.m.-10 p.m.

Cost:$4- $26

Extras: Beans and cornbread served with every meal

Contact: holysmokebbq.us407-730-3114

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Friday, December 14, 2012 hilights.org

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Page 15: December 2012

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hi-lights artsentertainment 15WRESTLERS OPEN SEASONTraveling to University on Dec. 5, the boys’ wrestling team began their season taking on the Cougars. They were defeated 30-40. Next, they look to face Wekiva at home on Dec. 13 in the Wayne Rickman Gymnasium.

YEARBOOK SALES CONTINUEYearbooks are on sale for $75 until Jan. 11. No books will be sold after this date. Payment plans are also available. Submit payment to room 224 or purchase online at yearbookforever.com or www.schoolpay.ocps.net.

PeaksSnea

k

Justin BieberDate: Jan. 25, 7 p.m.Details: Amway Center, 400 W. Church St., Orlando; $37.50-$87.50

Carrie underwood: The Blown Away TourDate: Dec. 21, 7:30 p.m.Details: Amway Center, 400 W. Church St., Orlando; $44-$64

Ellie GouldingDate: Jan. 17, 8 p.m. Details: Hard Rock Live Orlando, 6050 Universal Blvd., Orlando; $28-$63

The Hobbit: An Unexpected JourneyRating: PG-13Date: Dec. 14Starring: Elijah Wood, Cate Blanchett, Ian McKellan, Martin Freeman, Hugo WeavingSynopsis: The first film of The Hobbit trilogy is about Bilbo Baggins and 13 dwarves, on a journey to reclaim the lost dwarf kingdom of Erebor.

Upcoming Movies

Jan. 8A Memory of Lightby Robert Jordan and Brandon Sanderson, the 15th book in the Wheel of Time series.

Stomping the Phantom Brake PedalArtist: Angels and AirwavesRelease Date: Dec. 18Genre: Alternative RockAbout: Angels and Airwaves is an American Alternative rock band formed by Blink 182’s guitarist Tom Delonge. They have released four studio albums in five years and a documentaryfilm, Start the Machine in 2008. They are influenced by Radiohead, Pink Floyd and U2.

True NorthArtist: Bad ReligionRelease Date: Jan. 22Type: Punk RockAbout: Formed in Los Angeles in 1979, Bad Religion has released 15 studio albums, selling over 5 million albums worldwide and charting singles on the Mainstream Rock and Top 40 of Alternative Songs charts.

Born SinnerArtist: J. ColeRelease Date: Jan. 28Genre: Hip HopAbout: Born in 1985, Jermaine Lamar Cole is an American hip hop artist. His debut album Cole World: Sideline Story released in 2011 and was at number one on the U.S. Billboard 200 Chart and first to sign Jay Z’s Roc Nation Label. He was nominated for Best New Artist at the 54th Grammy Awards.

Upcoming CDs

Les MiserablesRating: PG-13Date: Dec. 25Starring: Hugh Jackman, Russell Crowe, Anne Hathaway, Amanda SeyfriedSynopsis: This film is about the story of Jean Valjean, mayor of a town in France and former prisoner. He has to fight for his freedom, avoid being captured again by Javert, a police inspector, and take care of young Cossete.

Django UnchainedRating: RDate: Dec. 25Starring: Jamie Foxx, Leonardo Di Caprio, Kerry Washington, Samuel L. Jackson, Christoph WaltzSynopsis: In this film, directed by Quentin Tarantino, an escaped slave, Django, attempts to rescue his wife from a cruel plantation owner with a bounty hunter as his accomplice.

Concerts

Friday, December 14, 2012 hilights.org

Page 16: December 2012

refl ects quoteme‘ The offi ce in my house is blue, it makes me feel relaxed and happy.

ProductivityColor most used in offi ces

bluefacts

Jamal Clark, junior

quoteme‘RoyaltyWealth and success

purplefacts

quoteme‘Most preferred by menCurbs appetite

blueyellow&whitefacts

quoteme‘Encorages appetiteEvokes strong emotion

redfacts

quoteme‘BoredomEarth

brownfacts

quoteme‘Encourages appetiteMany restaurants use red in their ads

redfacts

My kitchen is red. It makes me hungry.

Pagie Lucas, sophomore

My dining room is red, It makes me feel hungry.

Sam Heller, junior

My living room is light brown, it makes me feel happy and content. It is very earthy.

Mckenna Crager, sophomore

My favorite color is purple because it is a royal color and makes me feel strong and happy like a king.

My favorite color is blue. It is bright and stands out. It looks good on anybody, and it is appropriate anywhere like rooms and house colors.

My favorite color is lime green because it is bright and different.

Joseph Perez, sophomore

Purple

Royalty

Wealth SuccessWisdom

BlueCalmness

Curbs appetite

Water & Peace

GreenHealth

TranquilityMoney

Nature

ßfunfacts

Yellow makes babies cry

My room is purple. It is a royal color. It makes me feel powerful.

Alexandra Droege, junior

My room is blue, yellow and white for West Virginia mountaineers.

James Goodrich,senior

Cheerful and warmPurityInnocence

Green is the color of jealousy

ßquoteme

personality

The color of mourning in Iran is blue

Blue is the color of love. This is why brides wear something blue

Green is the symbol of fertility and once preferred wedding dress color in the 15th-century

Red is associated with failure and can make one do poorly on an exam

A woman becomes 30 percent more attractive to a man while wearing red

Matthew Combs, senior

Samantha Harris, sophomore

quoteme‘ReliabilityPracticality

brownfacts

My offi ce is brown. It makes me feel calm and at home.

Naya Smith, freshman

quoteme‘Purity Spacious

whitefacts

My kitchen is white. It makes me feel calm and it is very roomy.

Raeshawn Burke, freshman

quoteme‘ My dining room is tan. It makes me feel relaxed and makes me not feel rushed.Christopher Bryant, senior

GenuinenessNature

tanfacts

quoteme‘Evokes strong emotions Love

redfacts

My room is red. It makes me feel hungry and happy.

Sinh Pham, senior

Kitchen Living Room Dining Room

Offi ce/Den Girl’s Room

Boy’s Room

Allows relaxation Encourages appetite

Calming Warm Most Preferred by men

Peaceful

Productivity

BLUE PINK

YELLOW LAVENDER RED

BLUE

Increases metabolism Gives energy

Color

By GABRIELLA FAKHOuRY

16 Friday, December 14, 2012 hilights.org artsentertainment hi-lightsSALVATION ARMY RINGS HOPEThroughout the holiday season, the Salvation Army will continue the Red Kettle Drive at Publix. In turn, the organization is able to offer Christmas dinners, clothing and toys for families in need.

SCHOOL SUPPORTS CUSTODIANSThis holiday season Advanced Placement Literature teacher Jennifer Hilley and Assistant Principal Carlotta Iglesias organized a credit union account to collect donations for custodians. Anyone wishing to donate should see the Boone branch of the CFE Federal Credit Union or Hilley. Today is the last day to collect donations.