Dec 11 - Cardinal Gibbons High School

Magazine 

KEEping cHriSt 

in cHriStmAS 

With the commercialism 

of the modern day 

Christmas season, it’s 

easy to forget why we 

celebrate this holiday. 

We take a look at the 

roots of Christmas. 

Around town 

Looking for places to 

hop around for the 

holidays? We have a 

list of festive activities 

that are sure to keep 

you occupied. 

YulE-tidE 

FoodS 

We have a bunch of 

recipies to warm your 

Christmas dinner table. 

Student - Celebrity Look-a-Likes | December 2011 

Holiday 

Season 

Edition 

Now mobile optimized

2 |School News Volume 50, Issue 3 

Avoid Flu Season 

By ChristineFernandez 

Although being sick excuses ourselves from being in school, it’s never as much fun as we think it’s going 

to be, is it? Unfortunately, there are no known cures for colds and flu, but there are some tips that can 

help prevent them from taking over your immune system. 

Wash your hands. Yes it’s cliché and you’ve heard it so many times, but most colds and flu are 

spread by direct contact. Someone who has the flu may sneeze onto their hand, and then that hand touches 

the desk, the keyboard, and the table that you yourself just touched. What happens then? Those germs are 

on your hands. And once they are on you, they can live for hours, sometimes even weeks. So wash your 

hands often. If no sink is available, rub your hands together very hard for a minute or so. 

Drink fluids. Fluids, especially water, wash out all the poisons that lie inside your body, along with 

rehydrating you. 

Eat foods containing phytochemicals. “Phyto” means plant and the natural chemicals in plants 

have vitamins. So eat up on salads and other green, red, yellow vegetables. 

Exercise. Now by exercise, I don’t meant run three miles a day. 

That would be nice, but teenagers only need to exercise for 30 minutes 

each day to stay healthy. By jogging or walking for 30 minutes everyday 

you’re strengthening your leg and back muscles, improving your bones, 

and strengthening your heart. 

Relax. If you sit down and take a couple deep breaths, especially 

if you’re stressing out, you can relax which can help you activate your 

immune system on demand. 

Go to bed. Everyone knows that sleep is good for you, but most 

people don’t know why. Aside from the obvious reasons, resting your mind and body, because your mind 

and body also correct chemical imbalances, assure proper blood sugar levels for the next day, and maintain 

the memory. 

A Day in the Life of a Nurse 

On November, 17 Cardinal Gibbons High School students 

participated in an annual Holy Cross Hospital event known 

as the “Day in the Life of a 

Nurse” program. 

With an opportunity 

to shadow professional 

registered nurses and to 

use the hospital’s skills lab, 

the program offers excellent 

hands-on career education 

that has inspired some of our 

past participants to pursue 

Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degrees.

December 2011 School News | 3 

Exam Encounter 

By GiaManieri 

As juniors and seniors in high school, standardized tests are an inevitable part of life which must eventually 

be tackled. If you’re up for the challenge, both the SAT and the ACT will present themselves complete 

with baffling charts, puzzling equations, and mystifying vocab. There is an option, however, to choose which 

test best suits you and strive for your most impressive score! Take these points into account if you’re unsure 

about which test to grace with your scholarly skills! 

Since the ACT’s main focus is to determine what the student has learned over the course of his or 

her education, the student with consistently high grades in school find it less of a challenge. The SAT differs 

in the sense that aptitude and verbal abilities aid the test-taker who packs keen perception and reasoning. 

Although the tests both take up a good four hours of a Saturday morning, the categories by which they test the 

students differ. ACTstudent.com says, “The ACT has up to 5 components: English, Mathematics, Reading, 

Science, and an optional Writing Test. The SAT has 3 components: Critical Reasoning, Mathematics, and 

a required Writing Test. The College Board introduced a new version of the SAT in 2005, with a mandatory 

writing test. You take the ACT Writing Test only if required by the college(s) you’re applying to.” Another large 

factor taken into account by students is that the SAT penalizes wrong answers while the ACT accumulates 

the questions answered correctly with no penalty for wrong answers. 

We asked seasoned test-taker Ansley Parish about which test she preferred of the two. She reported, 

“I like the SAT because it’s broken up and some parts are easier than others. In the math portion of the ACT, 

you either know it or you don’t, whereas the SAT lets you try to solve with some common sense. The science 

on the ACT was by far the most challenging for me.” National statistics report that males tend to excel on 

the SAT while, the girls lead in scores on the ACT. However, the true determination of which test fits with 

your niche lies within your academic strengths and weaknesses. So prepare to perform, but don’t stress the 

test! 

Gibbons Family Grows 

By DanielleCruzpino 

Keegan Casey Hoag was born October 19th 

at Holy Cross Hospital.He weighed 7 lbs. 7 oz. 

at birth and was 20 3/4 inches long. Mrs. Hoag 

said, “I feel very blessed.”


Those lucky enough to see Cardinal Gibbons’ 

production of Into the Woods in November may 

not be aware of how much effort goes on behind 

the scenes. For this particular 

production rehearsals began in 

August. Since that point the cast 

met four times a week to block 

with Mr. Sheremeta and work on 

music with Music Director, Amanda 

Satchell. 

The cast’s work doesn’t stop 

simply at the performance. Once 

the sets have been constructed 

by Michael Boni they must be 

painted. Many members of the cast 

and crew assist with this but even with help, painting 

on such a large scale takes hours and mixing the 

proper color can sometimes result in an ugly mess. 

The Sunday before opening night all of the sets, 

Cyber School 

Behind the Curtains 

By SusanCurry 

costumes, and props are loaded into the theater. 

Tech Week is the first time that the cast 

performs in full costume with Mrs. Sheremeta and the 

full set. It is then that lighting, music, and 

sound cues are loaded into the system and 

fly-ins are added onto the rails. 

During performances there are 

many hands working backstage that are 

never seen... or at least hopefully they 

aren’t seen. They are responsible for 

moving sets and assisting with costume 

changes that allow characters to transform 

within seconds, all of which is done in little 

light. 

So when you’re clapping you aren’t 

just applauding a couple of hours of great acting; you 

are also applauding all of the hard work that has been 

going on for months behind the curtains. 

By SaraJacobs 

Whether you’re scrambling to get your required credits before graduation or you just want to extend your 

learning beyond Cardinal Gibbons, you’ll probably end up enrolled in Florida Virtual School. However, are 

these classes a pleasure or a pain? 

Florida Virtual School offers a plethora of courses in all levels: Regular, Honors, and Advanced Placement. These 

online classes give students the freedom to take classes that aren’t offered at their school or that can’t be fit into 

their schedules. 

For students who enjoy the challenge of being organized and disciplined, online classes are a wonderful way to 

enhance your curriculum. Dominick Casciato, senior, says that online classes “allow the students to learn at their 

own pace. They also teach students how to manage their time, preparing themselves for life beyond the classroom.” 

Though these classes are flexible and convenient, they are not for all students. If your time is consumed by band 

or sports practices, play rehearsals, or other extracurricular activities, engaging yourself into an online class may 

be quite difficult. These classes require a lot of time and if you don’t have that time to give, you may find yourself 

in a stressful situation. Leslie Novakovic, sophomore, says, “...it’s the worst being on the computer for that long.” 

Also, if you’re the type of student who learns best through interaction, online classes may stifle your learning. 

Michael Hamilton, senior, stated that online classes “distance students from teachers, making their learning 

experience less dynamic”. Kara Schwantes, junior, described online classes as “ not very effective if you like to be 

face-to-face with a teacher and surrounded by other students”. 

Generally, one’s experience with online classes is quite personal. If you are very self-disciplined and don’t mind 

learning mainly through reading, you will succeed in online classes and view them as a pleasure. On the other 

hand, if you enjoy the classroom setting and enjoy the personal help given by a teacher, online classes may not 

be the route you want to take.


Lionfish: Beautiful Predators 

Gasp! As I was exploring a wreck 

for lobsters in the Florida Keys 

recently, I suddenly pulled my hand 

back when I came eye to eye with 

the most intimidating fish I had ever 

seen. I knew that the fish that had 

caught me off guard was dangerous, 

but I didn’t know much more about it 

other than that its spiny tentacles sent 

shivers down my spine. I decided to 

look more into what is behind the fish 

that has been causing divers so much 

grief: the lionfish and its cousins, the 

scorpionfish and stonefish are an 

interesting species. 

Though they are intimidating, 

lionfish are generally smaller than 

the magazine you’re holding. They 

are covered in red, white, and brown 

stripes and around eighteen long, 

pointy dorsal fins. Similar to the lionfish, 

the scorpion fish has shorter spines, 

and the stonefish sports the shortest 

of them all. Their unique appearance 

allows these fish to blend into reefs 

and rocks easily (not to mention 

wrecks). They are also some of the 

most popular aquarium fish because 

of their beauty and mysteriousness. 

Lionfish are native to the 

Indian and Pacific Oceans, but they 

are an invasive species to Caribbean 

waters. They are said to have 

By MeganMcGee 

arrived through the releases by 

frustrated aquarium owners or the 

destruction of Florida aquariums 

during Hurricane Andrew in 1992. 

A huge explosion of the 

species was seen around 2007 

because they produce over 

200,000 eggs per month, which 

has become a major problem in 

our waters since. According to 

NPR News, “A lionfish can kill 

three-quarters of a reef’s fish 

population in just five weeks.” 

Lionfish are reef predators; 

they prey mainly on small fish 

and shrimp, but they can also be 

very harmful to humans if they 

are ignored. If a person is stung 

by a lionfish, some of the most 

common effects are nausea, 

fever, and difficulty breathing. 

There have been hardly any 

fatalities due to lionfish. In fact, 

some of the most common 

episodes of lionfish stings have 

occurred in peoples’ own homes 

as they are fiddling with their 

aquariums. Lionfish strike using 

their long dorsal fins, which are 

covered in venomous spines. The 

harder these predators strike, 

the more venom is transferred 

to the victim; in the worst case 

scenarios, the needle-like spines 

are broken off and can cause 

long-term effects. If you happen 

to be stung by a lionfish, the best 

thing to do is immerse the area 

in hot water until you can get to 

a hospital as soon as possible. 

Make sure not to apply pressure 

if you think spines may be stuck 

in your skin. 

The problem in our reefs is that 

lionfish are some of the worst 

predators to our native fishes, 

Lionfish are an invasive 

species to Florida, and can kill 

three-quarters of the fish on 

our local reefs. 

and they have no natural predators 

(although it is rumored that they 

are snacked on by goliath grouper). 

Lionfish can also be extremely 

dangerous to divers, but if we 

are careful around them, we can 

potentially make an impact on wiping 

them out. Efforts to eliminate the 

lionfish were pushed in the Florida 

Keys Lionfish Derby Series this past 

August in Key Largo, when 675 

lionfish were shot by divers. Lionfish 

can be speared easily, and they 

taste delicious both raw and cooked. 

They also look extremely impressive 

in pictures, so strap your fins on, 

jump in the water, and slay some 

lionfish! 

Don’t forget to honor our Alumni 

on January 21 when our very own 

Coach Flack ‘98, Coach Montiel 

‘89, Brother Michael Brickman, 

Missy Myer ‘91, Tommy Peragine 

‘88 and the 1977 - 1978 Girls 

Tennis Teams are inducted into 

our Athletic Hall of Fame!


Into the Woods 

By CailinCooney and ChristineFernandez 

Everyone has his or her favorite fairytales, from Little Red and her fateful encounter with the wolf to Jack and 

the Beanstalk. The Drama Department’s fall production of Into the Woods, directed by Mark Shermetta, will 

summon the young and the young at heart. 

The cow as white as milk, the cape as red as blood, the hair as yellow as corn, the slipper as pure as gold… 

these are not your typical grocery items. They are, however, what a childless baker and wife must retrieve from 

the woods to satisfy a cantankerous witch, and it’s all downhill from there. 

As the curtains open, a hush fell over the audience as the talented actress, senior Erin Hallick started off the 

magical play with her melodic voice. Everything was top notch, from the actors to the set, the costumes, and the 

make up. 

The witch, played by senior Marionna Marchelos, deserves notable praise for her impeccable acting. Her 

character, far from the sweet and beautiful girl we know, is vile, ugly and evil. You simply could not tear your 

eyes away even for a sip of soda once she stepped onto the stage. 

The baker, played by senior David 

Stewart and the baker’s wife, played 

by senior Elizabeth Guttmann, were 

also flawless. When the baker was 

in pain, you felt his pain. When the 

baker’s wife was miserable about 

not having a child, you felt the need 

to cry. In “It Takes Two”, a catchy 

duet, the audience truly believed 

the two are were in love. 

For all who love comedy, this show 

provided plenty. I’m not sure which 

is more funny, the witch who raps, or 

little Miss Red Riding Hood skipping 

on stage with her homemade wolf 

cape. 

The ditzy Jack, played by senior 

Ryan Horten, created laughter 

throughout the theater with his 

dimwitted characteristics. 

When the show came to an end with 

the enjoyable song “Into the Woods 

Finale” and all the characters 

appear for the last time, you can’t 

help but get goosebumps. The 

incredibly entertaining, hilarious, 

and engaging production left all 

who attended in awe. All the tedious 

hours the cast and crew put into the 

making of this production paid off.


By LorenHill 

When I press my snooze button for the final time 

at 7:00a.m. each school day, our dedicated 

CGHS security guard, Kerry Hardison, has already 

been on school campus for two hours. He arrives 

everyday at 5:00a.m. to open the gates for teachers, 

faculty, and students who arrive early, so next time 

you pull into the parking lot at 7:49 please avoid 

complaining. Kerry may arguably have the most 

important job on campus: to keep us safe and in 

school. This job comes with a lot of pressure and 

he doesn’t have time to be cleaning the campus in 

which he takes pride in, so do us a favor and refrain 

from leaving your trash wherever you see fit. That 

means if you choose to sit outside during lunch, use 

the accommodations Cardinal Gibbons has provided 

you with for the disposal of your garbage (get up and 

throw it away in a trash can). 

Behind the Scenes: 

Bus Drivers 

Cardinal Gibbons has always been a center for 

learning, but what is frequently overlooked is 

how the students get here. The bus drivers at CGHS, 

Darlene Burton, Tongala Washington, Wilma Jean 

Baptiste, Jack Noel, Albert McCall, Pierre Françoise, 

and Jeffrey Jackson are dedicated to providing safe 

transportation to the students, not just for school but 

for sporting and other after school events. They take 

great pride in their work, and that includes supporting 

the Chiefs on the field and court. 

A Day in the Life of Mr. Hardison 

While picking up the students’ trash is his 

biggest pet-peeve, the Cardinal Gibbons 

family is 

Kerry’s 

favorite part 

about his 

job. In his 

own words, 

“I love the 

people I 

work with, 

and 99% 

of the 

students 

are great. 

I was a kid 

once too, 

and I know how much fun high school is.” After a 

long day’s work of dealing with students, parents, 

and traffic; Kerry leaves school at 3:00pm, always 

faithful to return again in the morning. 

Courtesy of Mr.Parker’sCompositionClass - Edited by SusanCurry 

Along with passing a series of licenser requirements and being certified they believe in the 

importance of respect, discipline, and a true love for their work. Each morning these drivers transport roughly 

300 students. Without those students, it would be like missing the entire sophomore class. Their day starts 

at 5a.m. -8a.m., then 2p.m.-5p.m., and sometimes goes to as late as 11p.m. for afterschool activities. Their 

route stretches as far as North Boca out to West Parkland/Coral Springs, south Port Everglades, and the 

greater Fort Lauderdale area to ensure that every student can be a part of CGHS. 

Director of Transportation Mr. Davis says, “Their job seems impossible, but the department of 

transportation always gets the job done because, deep down, they know the importance of the cargo they 

carry.”

8 |Sports Volume 50, Issue 3 


Girls Soccer 

Wrestling 

The wrestling season 

has now begun, and the 

team is looking towards 

states once again with 

the help of Coach Frank 

Pettino. Pettino has been 

coaching wrestling at Cardinal 

Gibbons since 1988. 

He wrestled at Fort Lauderdale 

high school and 

in the Marine Corps. Before 

coaching at Gibbons, he coached at Coconut 

Creek high school for two years and Taravella for 

four years. Besides coaching wrestling, Pettino also 

coaches youth sports such as little league. 

The wrestling team was number one last 

year and is currently ranked number one in state 

and county in all divisions. Coach Pettino is hoping 

to break the county record of five state titles this 

year with his team made up of predominately sophomores. 

His favorite part about coaching is coaching 

boys that have never wrestled and seeing them fall in 

love with the sport. Pettino encourages everyone to 

come to a wrestling match to see the wrestlers’ hard 

work be put to the test on the mats. 

By MeganMcGee 

Boys Soccer 

COACH 

By LorenHill 

C o a c h 

Rafael Ferreiro, 

who is more 

commonly referred 

to as “Raf”, began 

playing soccer as 

a child with family 

and friends. He 

then joined travel 

leagues and was 

on the Cardinal Gibbons Varsity Boys team throughout 

all four years of high school. Once he graduated from 

Gibbons, Coach Ferreiro played soccer for one year of 

college at FIU and then transferred to Nova Southeastern 

University where he continued to play and was named 

CO-MVP. Due to his outstanding performance in college, 

he played professional soccer for two years in Spain. 

When he arrived back to the US, it was only natural that 

he returned to his alma mater to coach his favorite sport. 

Rafael Ferreiro is enthusiastic about coaching in a new 

district this year. He says, “It’s exciting that we’re going 

to compete with new teams. I think we have a great 

chance at a state title, an honor this program deserves 

and needs.” The Chiefs are starting the season off with 

a clean record of 2-0 as of early November and surely 

will not disappoint! 

The girls’ soccer team is kicking into grove with a positive attitude this season. With their 

first few games in early November, they got off to a great start. You may appreciate our girls’ 

soccer team and their remarkable athletic talents, but do not forget the woman behind it all: 

Margo Flack has led the Lady Chiefs to over 188 wins over the course of 12 years coaching 

at Cardinal Gibbons. She led our team to state runner-up in 2009, which a few of our senior 

girls had the opportunity to experience as freshmen. Flack is a Gibbons alum herself, and 

she played soccer both as a Chief and as a Knight at Nova Southeastern before the mascot 

became a Shark. 

As the present season is underway, Coach Flack is eager to compete for the title in the 

mix of their new district, and she loves working with such a young team this year. “Our team is 

a talented group that works really well together,” Flack says. She remarks on the exceptional 

leadership of team captains, Katie Crittenberger, Maylis Broderick, and Meaghan Daw. Meaghan, who will make this 

her fourth year on the varsity team, says, “I’m really looking forward to this season and coming together as a team. I 

can’t wait to see how we finish”. It is clear that these girls are driven toward making the best of this season. Be sure 

to cheer them on at their games; and you can witness the passion they have on the field.

December 2011 Sports | 9 

APPROACH 

Boys Basketball 

By LorenHill 

Coach Marty Seilden is beginning his fourth year as the head coach of the Varsity Boys 

Basketball Team. Coach Marty grew up in New York, which is where he learned to play basketball. 

After his playing days were over, he refereed for basketball games and coached in New York. He 

decided to become a coach because of his "love for the game". 

When Coach Marty moved down to Florida, he coached at several different schools, including 

Boyd Anderson, Saint Thomas Aquinas, Archbishop McCarthy, and Nova. Coach Marty ended up at 

Cardinal Gibbons when he asked former athletic directior, Coach Crocco, if he could use the gym for 

a basketball camp. She informed him that only their coaches could use their facilities. Coach Marty 

did not inquire anything more because he knew that they already had a head coach for their boys 

basketball team. However, a few days after he spoke with Coach Crocco, she called him and told 

him that we were looking for a new head coach for our boys basketball team and asked if he'd be 

interested. 

Evidently, he was interested. He loves coaching at Cardinal Gibbons and his favorite part is 

"seeing the boys go through all four of their years and maturing into great athletes and kids". 

Hockey 

By MeganMcGee 

Coach Chaka 

Bainbridge is adding a little 

diversity to our coaching staff 

this year. This Canadianborn 

coach is beginning 

his first year at Cardinal 

Gibbons as the head coach 

of the hockey team. Coach 

Bainbridge played as a 

center in both Canada and 

Germany, and he earned a Canadian National Title. 

He began coaching in Canada as “a way to give back 

to the game that gave me (Bainbridge) so much”. He 

began his coaching career here at CGHS last year 

as a volunteer assistant coach. Last year, he helped 

lead the team to an undefeated season and his goal 

for this year is to “repeat last season”. However, 

Coach Bainbridge noted that “it will be harder to go 

undefeated as we will play ten games in our division 

and ten games against Division I teams.” This tough 

schedule is something to recognize but not to fear 

because Coach Bainbridge is sure that his team 

can do it. 

Girls Basketball 

The girls 

basketball season 

opened Tuesday 

the 15 th By BobbyNichols 

with an 

impressive win for 

both the varsity and 

junior varsity Lady 

Chiefs. Head coach, 

Kevin Gordon said 

that the team, though 

still young, is looking 

good. We have three 

starters returning from 

last season giving us 

a good starting lineup. 

Gordon and assistant 

coach, Leatha Ingram, 

displayed excellent 

coaching throughout 

the duration of the games. Their excellence was 

matched by the impressive athleticism of the Lady 

Chiefs.

10 |Sports Volume 50, Issue 3 

SPORTS INJURIES: 

By AleFonte 

We’ve all seen our own fellow classmates 

limping around campus in casts and slings 

due to sports injuries. It is an inevitable misfortune 

that every year a certain number of students get 

injured during school sports. The most common 

injuries today in high school sports are shinsplints 

and muscle sprains. Since high school students 

are still growing, the worst injuries to withstand 

would be fractures and any growth plate and 

joints related injuries. Football, wrestling, and 

soccer are the most common sports to result in 

injuries. Aggressive sports with physical contact, 

these sports can result in dangerous and even life 

threatening injuries. 

Matthew Knick experienced a neck injury 

while catching a football pass. This sophomore 

went to catch the football and bumped into a 

fellow player. An ambulance was called when he 

fell to the ground and suffered pain in his neck and 

head. He suffered a concussion and had to wear 

a neck brace. 

Field Dedication: 

Honoring Our Family 

On October 28th By CailinCooney 

, the field Cardinal Gibbons students 

commonly refer to as “the Furnace” was dedicated 

to Dr. Alvin J. Tight. Dr. Tight not only supported his 

own family, but his Cardinal Gibbons family as well. “He 

represents the epitome of what Cardinal Gibbons is all 

about: family”, said Chiefs Principal, Paul Ott, at the 

dedication ceremony. 

To go along with the field being dedicated to his 

memory, the Broward County Board of Commissioners 

Office has declared Monday, May 21, 2012, Dr. Alvin J. 

Tight Memorial Day. “It means so much to me that I will get 

to play on the field named after my grandpa. Even though 

I won’t get to see him up in the stands anymore, I know he 

will still always be watching my games from Heaven. I can’t 

wait to make him proud.” Katie Crittenberger, Class of 2012. 

When It’s No Longer a Game 

After the injury, he had to go through several tests 

and medications to be nursed back to health. 

During a wrestling match, Junior Sean Woods 

endured a hip dislocation. Once the ambulance 

arrived, he was taken to a local hospital where they 

pulled and popped the hip back into place. Woods 

had to attend physical therapy for a total of 8 months 

and was out for the rest of the season. 

Although anybody is subjected to injury 

without warning, there are ways to prevent them. 

Stretching and warming up before the game or 

match can help you avoid injury. Wearing insoles 

in your shoes, especially for runners, can prevent 

shinsplints and help with feet problems. One of the 

most important and effective ways to avoid injuries 

is by nipping it in the bud. Addressing the problem 

before it gets out of hand is the safest and best way 

to ensure your own safety and health so that you do 

not have to endure the long time effects.

December 2011 Sports |11 

Volleyball 

ATHLETIC SUMMARIES 

By SaraJacobs By GiaManieri 

The number of banners that decorate the gym 

walls may be astounding to other schools, but here 

at Cardinal Gibbons, it is tradition. After a successful 

2011 season, the girls volleyball team was honored to 

go to States. The competition was a challenge and the 

Ladies gave a great example of how to play hard to the 

end. Nationally - ranked Tampa Berkeley Prep moved 

forward. While the final score did not end in our favor, we 

congratulate the girl’s volleyball team on their successful 

season! 

Football 

The Chiefs football teams 

are fierce, ferocious, and fired up! 

The freshman boys rounded up 

the year with 1 win and 5 losses. 

The JV team ended the season 

undefeated and strong with 5 

wins. The varsity team concluded 

the season with 8 wins and 2 

losses. The varsity team won our 

Homecoming Game against Fort 

Lauderdale 34-6 on October 1st . 

Senior Night on November 4th was a success with 

the crowd cheering on the whole team and later 

acknowledging the hardworking seniors. Although 

our undefeated streak was broken with the loss 

against Coral Springs on October 14th By DanielleCruzpino 

, the team 

pulled through and made our school proud. What 

a fantastic football season! 

Golf 

As both the boys’ and girls’ golf seasons come 

to an end, coaches and players have provided reports 

of a very successful season! The girls concluded with 

a 5-5 record while coming in third place at the District 

Competition. Coach Melnicoff said, “We will be saying 

goodbye to both Danielle Welker and Taylor Selbach. 

As seniors, they have played their final competitive 

high school match. The “Best Average Award” will go 

to senior Danielle Welker whose average is an 83.” 

The boys’ team, reportedly packed with 

promising young talent, finished 2 nd in the district and 

3 rd in the regional championship. Sean Smothers, 

however, excelled individually to the state finals 

where he “played well and represented Cardinal 

Gibbons with class and dignity” according to Coach 

Brady. Coach also claimed, “Our entire starting 

team will be returning next year, which will give us 

an excellent chance of winning states. No Gibbons 

boys’ golf team has ever done this. Sean Smothers, 

Alex Lutz, Sam Madsen, Jesus Delgado, and William 

Hart will make one of the best teams in the state of 

Florida next season.”

12 | Sports Volume 50, Issue 3 

Aqua Chiefs 

The Aqua Chiefs never disappoint. The 

CGHS Girls Swim Team (16-1) won 9 th place 

and the Boys Swim Team (4-3) won 6 th place in 

the regional championship, November 4, at the 

Fort Lauderdale Aquatic Complex. 

Senior Ryan Rosenbaum deserves 

special recognition for his outstanding win 

that night with both the 200-yard individual 

medley with a time of 1:53.42 and the 500-yard 

freestyle 4:34.78. He said “It feels great to win 

all of my events after training so hard for them. 

It feels even better to be representing Gibbons 

at States for the fourth year in a row”. 

Their amazing Coaches, Mr. Duffy Dillon, 

who is entering his 13 th year here at Cardinal 

Gibbons, Assistant Coach Lisa McLuckie, and 

Assistant Coach Jesse Vassallo all deserve 

honorable credibility for all of the hard work 

and time they have and continue to dedicate to 

making the Aqua Chiefs their very best. 

The Swim Team advanced to States, 

which took place on November 11, 2011. The 

girls placed 19th while the boys placed 11th. 

Sport Report 

Cross Country 

By ChristineFernandez By MeganMcGee 

The Boys' Cross Country team stands proud 

with their District Championship trophy. 

The Cross Country team had an outstanding 

season this year under the talented instruction of Coach 

Glenn Lee and Assistant Coach Peter Santamarina. 

The girls ended the season with a record of 29-1, and 

the boys came close with a record of 28-2. Keenan 

Bailey comments on the season overall, “As both a 

junior and a first year runner, I couldn’t have been 

more proud of this year’s season. I think the key to 

our success was the bond that our team shared. The 

combination of senior leadership and the strength of 

the underclassmen was just an overall perfect mix”. 

This perfect mix of runners is what allowed the team 

to do so well this season. 

At Counties, the team made an impressive feat 

as every boy achieved his personal record. These 

Chiefs won the District Championship at Mills Pond 

on November 3, where Morgan Rodriguez became 

the Girls’ Individual Champion (21:00) followed by 

Catherine Haley in second (21:39). Five of our boys 

finished within a 30 second period, including Michael 

Hampel (3rd/18:52), Andrew Nicholson (5th/18:54), 

Jason Belina (7th/19:09), Tony Testa (8th/19:18), 

and James Sahagian (9th/19:21). The Girls Cross 

Country team also placed third at regional’s in Stuart 

on Saturday, November 12, and the boys placed fifth. 

The boys went on to place 17th and the girls at 24th at 

the State Championships in Dade City on November 

19th. Congratulations to all our running Chiefs for an 

impressive season!

December 2011 Voice of the Chiefs | 13 

Insight 

Staff: 

Dedicated 

to providing 

a deeper 

vision of 

scholastic, 

spiritual 

and social 

activities. 

The Voice of the Chiefs 

Staff Writers: Maylis Broderick, Danielle Cruzpino, Susan 

Curry, Caiti Donahoe, Christine Fernandez, Ale Fonte, 

Loren Hill, Sara Jacobs, Gia Manieri, Megan McGee, 

Graphic Design: Bobby Nichols 

Editor: Cailin Cooney 

Adviser: Mrs. Macy Dailey 

www.martyfeldmansatprep.com 

Email: martyprep@aol.com 

954-346-9445 

7472 Wiles Road Coral Springs

14 |Holiday Happenings Volume 50, Issue 3 

Christmas Ideas for Him and Her 

Having trouble deciding what to buy your significant other or friend of the opposite gender this 

Christmas? Before you read my suggestions below, make sure you have a set price point with the person 

with whom you will be exchanging gifts, because, let’s face it, no one likes to be the one who bought a candy 

bar for the person who gave you a brand-new pair of Sperrys! 

For Him 

For Him 

$20-$40: A couple preowned 

video games that 

he doesn’t already have! 

Buying the brand-new 

Modern Warfare 3 will cost 

you over $50, and chances 

are: he already has it. 

Purchasing pre-owned 

games at stores such as GameStop will save you tons of 

money and gives you the chance to buy him a couple games 

he doesn’t own, though you will have to do some snooping to 

make sure he doesn’t already have it! 

$10-$15: Make him a snack basket or buy some sort of 

food 

A way to a guy’s heart is through his stomach! If he is a 

snack or candy lover then compile some of his favorites and 

put them in a nice basket. If he’s not much into junk-food, get 

him a large Laspada’s sub! These subs are already wrapped, 

so throw on a bow and take it to-go! (Note: If you purchase a 

sub, do it right before you exchange gifts.) 

Twas the night before midterms, 

and all through the school, 

Gibbons students were focused on things far from yule. 

For the pupils had stalled ‘til the very last hour; 

and with their noses in books, had grown rather sour. 

The clocks on their wrists read the end of the day, 

yet their study sessions were completed only halfway. 

While the homes of their teachers filled with cookies & 

wreaths 

the students crunched numbers while gritting their teeth. 

At this point their choices had come with high prices 

as Mr. Ott penned lists of naughty and nices. 

$10-$15: A Mini 

Gift Basket from 

Bath & Body Works 

By AleFonte 

For Her 

By purchasing 

this gift you not only 

will score points 

because girls love to smell nice, but you 

get a $20 value for only $15! Another 

plus is that YOU get to pick the scent, 

so every time you smell it and dish out a 

compliment you’ll impress her! 

For Her 

$20-$40: A Juicy Couture Necklace 

No girl can deny anything that 

sparkles! Though Juicy Couture may 

seem usually very expensive, if you 

find the right deal (at Macy’s or other 

department stores), a Juicy heart 

necklace can cost less than $35! 

t’was the night Before midterms By GiaManieri 

In need of a guide to ensure some success 

they called out for help to the obvious best. 

On Cubas, On Quailey, On Davis and Hanke! 

On Lasher, On Orcutt, On Coyle and Dailey! 

After hours on end of tiring revision 

The students concluded on one last decision: 

“We’ll trust what we know, we’ll just do our best, 

Happy Midterms to All, And to ALL a good test.

December 2011 Holiday Happenings | 15 

12 dAYS oF cHriStmAS 

On the first day of Christmas Cardinal Gibbons gave to me 

the feeling of family. 

On the second day of Christmas Cardinal Gibbons gave to me 

2 brown sketchers and the feeling of family. 

On the third day of Christmas Cardinal Gibbons gave to me 

3 french braids, 2 brown sketchers and the feeling of family. 

On the fourth day of Christmas Cardinal Gibbons gave to me 

4 counselors guiding, 3 french braids, 2 brown sketchers and the feeling of family. 

On the fifth day of Christmas Cardinal Gibbons gave to me 

5 chicken wraps...4 counselors guiding, 3 french braids, 2 brown sketchers and the feeling of family. 

On the sixth day of Christmas Cardinal Gibbons gave to me 

6 Chiefs a – praying, 5 chicken wraps… 4 counselors guiding, 


Courtesy of your InsightStaff 

On the seventh day of Christmas Cardinal Gibbons gave to me 

7 swimmers swimming, 6 Chiefs a - praying, 5 chicken wraps...4 counselors guiding, 


On the eighth day of Christmas Cardinal Gibbons gave to me 

8 boys in boom squad, 7 swimmers swimming, 6 Chiefs a - praying, 

5 chicken wraps...4 counselors guiding, 


On the ninth day of Christmas Cardinal Gibbons gave to me 

9 crates of books, 8 boys in boom squad, 7 swimmers swimming, 

6 Chiefs a - praying, 5 chicken wraps...4 counselors guiding, 3 french braids, 

2 brown sketchers and the feeling of family. 

On the tenth day of Christmas Cardinal Gibbons gave to me 

10 Chiefs a - giving, 9 crates of books, 8 boys in boom squad, 7 swimmers swimming, 

6 Chiefs a - praying, 5 chicken wraps...4 counselors guiding, 


On the eleventh day of Christmas Cardinal Gibbons gave to me 

11 actors performing, 10 Chiefs a - giving, 9 crates of books, 8 boys in boom squad, 7 swimmers swimming, 

6 Chiefs a - praying, 5 chicken wraps...4 counselors guiding, 


On the twelfth day of Christmas Cardinal Gibbons gave to me 

12 cheerers tumbling, 11 actors performing, 10 Chiefs a - giving, 9 crates of books, 8 boys in boom squad, 

7 swimmers swimming, 6 Chiefs a - praying, 

5 chicken wraps...4 counselors guiding, 3 french braids, 

2 brown sketchers and the feeling of family.

16 | Holiday Happenings Volume 50, Issue 3


Santa Flashback: What Did You Want Under the Tree? 

Do you remember the good old days when we would be so anxious for Christmas morning to see the 

tree surrounded by shiny new toys and beautifully wrapped presents? Although being older has numerous 

advantages, not being able to feel that giddy anxiety is a drawback. Let’s reminisce on some of the prime 

presents, shall we? 

Legos 

A staple childhood toy! Legos seem to have been around since the 

dawn of time and a certainly a reminder of childhood days. What is better than 

a SpongeBob SquarePants Lego collection for remembrances? Complete with 

SpongeBob’s pineapple house, a Mermaid Man mobile, and the Krusty Krab, 

this Lego set is a kids dream come true. The new Architecture collection is 

a nice grown-up version of Legos, including timeless structures such as the 

Empire Sate Building and the White House, but it’s not the same as the vibrant 

simple Legos of our childhoods. 

Barbie 

Whenever the word Barbie is brought up, we all picture the classic blonde 

Barbie doll, decked out in bubblegum pink attire. However, there are over 100 

Barbie doll editions nowadays, and another 100 type of accessories. The Barbie 

empire may have expanded over the years, but the traditional Barbie doll will 

always be a representation of a girl’s perfect Christmas gift. 

Lite Brite 

Easy Bake Oven 

Ok ladies, don’t deny it, we all know you had an Easy Bake 

oven. Although it was all the rage when we were younger, it was 

without a doubt the faultiest most useless gift one could get. They 

never worked and were a waste of money but man, did we love those 

Easy Bake ovens. Ah, I guess nostalgia does come in a heated purple 

box. 

I remember thinking this was some futuristic spectacular marvel 

created by the gods. I mean, honestly, how do these things work?! Lite Brite 

seems to have lit up our television screens back in the day, but haven’t been 

around recently. Nonetheless, Lite Brite will always have a special luminescent 

place in my heart. 

So when the Toys R Us catalog arrives in the mail, don’t throw it aside. 

Instead let nostalgia waft over you and remember those glorious Christmas 

present-ridden extravaganzas. Merry Christmas!


wHAt’S Your FAVoritE pArt oF cHriStmAS? 

By LorenHill 

‘Tis the season to be happy. Whether it’s because you are seeing your extended family, 

you are vacationing, you are picking out the Christmas tree, or opening gifts, everyone simply 

loves Christmas. When asked what their favorite part of Christmas was, here’s what some CGHS 

students had to say. 

“My favorite part of 

Christmas is when my 

family members fly in and 

we celebrate together.” 

Kelsey Lyonnais, Senior 

“Presents, that’s just it.” 

Matt Yeager, Freshman 

“I just love the cold 

weather and opening 

presents is a given favorite 

about Christmas.” 

Kristin Wiley, Sophomore 

“I love listening to Christmas 

carols and the food is always 

great this time of year.” 

Sean Whittaker, Junior 

“Every year I go up to 

New Jersey to spend time 

with my family so I’d say 

that is my favorite part of 

Christmas.” 

Samantha Robinson, 

Freshman 

“The new Justin Bieber 

Christmas CD will be 

my favorite part about 

Christmas this year.” 

Sabrina Masri, Junior 

“My favorite part of 

Christmas is not having 

school.” 

Thomas Roa, Sophomore 

“Opening presents would 

have to be my favorite 

part about Christmas.” 

Brandon Sierra, Senior


Giving the Gift of Kindness to Keep Christ in Christmas 

By LorenHill 

During the month of December, if you hear jingling and 

automatically assume it is the sound of coins rattling 

around in someone’s pocket rather than the sweet melody 

of bells, you probably aren’t focusing on what Christmas 

is truly about. Yes, I said it! Money isn’t everything. 

Christmas is a time for giving and rejoicing the 

birth of Christ with the wonderful people the Lord has 

blessed you with. Take some time this Christmas season 

from the stress of shopping, the urge to receive the nicest 

gifts from Santa Claus, and the desire to be named the 

“Best Gift Giver” in order to celebrate the true meaning of 

the holiday. 

Instead of allowing yourself to fall into the trap 

of a commercialized Christmas, work on attending Mass 

each Sunday and especially on Christmas Eve and/or 

Christmas day. Going to Christmas service with your 

family is a great activity. Many masses on Christmas Eve 

are “toy masses.” During these services, you can bring a 

wrapped present (labeled what the present is) and place 

it under their tree and the Church will give the present to 

children in need. 

Set up an Advent Wreath in your home to remind 

you and your family that the Christmas season is not 

about presents. It is about preparing for and celebrating 

the Birth of Jesus, our Savior. 

If you have younger family members, set up 

a Nativity scene in your home and read with them the 

Gospel chapters regarding the birth of Jesus. 

Another way to keep the Lord present this 

season is to avoid sending cards with phrases such as 

“Season’s Greetings” or “Happy Holidays”, stick with 

“Merry Christmas.” 

Doing community service is a wonderful 

way to remind others that Jesus is the reason for 

the season. Grab a small group of friends and 

volunteer! 

Rather than spend tons of money on 

friends, do a secret Santa where each person 

is required to make a home-made gift for the 

person they are assigned to; whether you bake 

cookies or create a tree ornament, it is sure to be 

a present your friend won’t forget! 

Perhaps the most significant gift you 

can give this season is remembering God. Take an extra 

moment each day and say a prayer thanking Him for all of 

the gifts He has given you. 

Spreading the Holiday joy this Christmas season 

isn’t all about giving expensive presents to your friends 

and family. It’s about giving back to your community and 

remembering the true reason we celebrate Christmas. 

There are so many things you can do to keep the Christ in 

Christmas, and the best part is, they are fun, easy and cost 

nothing. 

During the Holidays, we may forget those who are 

fighting very hard to protect us overseas. Remember our 

troops this year through offering a special prayer for them 

or sending a letter or care basket. 

Another group we may forget is the elderly. A visit 

to a senior citizen, even if they don’t know you, will not 

only make their day, but their entire Christmas. Many of 

the elderly are lonely, and talking for just an hour or so will 

surely brighten up their Holiday. 

At school, you can participate in the Christmas Food 

Drive. It’s easy, just find some cans of food in your pantry 

or go to your grocery store to get some canned goods. 

(There are many sales during the Holidays!) Participating 

in your Clubs’ various Christmas activities and drives is 

also a fun and easy way to keep the Christ in Christmas. 

This Christmas season, remember what is truly 

important during the Holidays, is giving to the less fortunate 

and spending quality time with your family.

20 | Holiday Happenings Volume 50, Issue 3 

Receiving and Re-Gifting 

“To do better in 

school.” 

Alexandra 

Bautista (10) 

“I want to learn how to 

swim.” 

Ryan Rosenbaum (12) 

By GiaManieri 

Chances are, if you celebrate Christmas, you’ll be receiving quite a few presents this year. Upon such a 

report, it is also very likely that some of these presents will be utterly atrocious. Such a misfortune is simply 

unavoidable, considering that we all have at least one friend or family member who is notorious for dreadful giftgiving. 

This contributor will stop at nothing to fill your closets with holiday-themed trinkets. The snow globe, the 

knitted mittens, and the occasional cat sweater are all commonplace castoffs that get packaged and presented 

every year. Armed with this guide, you too can dodge the eternal bullet that is the terrible present, and manipulate 

the burden to work in your favor! 

Since we’ve all fallen victim to an undesirable gift, it doesn’t take a psychoanalyst to decipher whether 

it was well received or not. The key to a coy acceptance is to not show extreme emotion on any end of the 

spectrum. No one cries tears of joy over a jumbo pack of underwear. However, if you know your acting skills just 

aren’t convincing, try not to look as though someone presented you with a framed obituary. A genuine smile and 

an enthused “Thank you!” will surely suffice. If you’re feeling extra spirited, you may even choose to add a “How 

did you know?!” You’ll be giving the donor piece of mind even if what they gave you was the equivalent to a piece 

of fruit cake. 

Parting with these gifts is an extremely viable option, especially if you know someone who would 

thoroughly enjoy them. For instance, if Aunt Gertrude hits the stores on Black Friday to find you that cat sweater 

every year, who better to re-gift the putrid thing to than your math teacher with a cat fixation! If you’ve got a friend 

with an extensive snow globe collection that they guard with their life, you’ve just gained bonus points for holiday 

gifting resourcefulness! There is one deadly blunder, however, that must be avoided at all costs: the double gift 

bungle. We’ve all heard of it, maybe some have even seen it done, the uncomfortable instant when someone 

unwraps the same gift they’ve given you in the past! Upon this, you’re re-gifting efforts are foiled and you are 

utterly embarrassed. Avoiding this is simple: as laborious as a “gift log” may sound, it’s quite effective and may 

save you a heap of humiliation. 

Hopefully these tips have fortified you for a successful gift-giving season, just remember that no matter 

how unsightly the gift may be, it’s the thought that counts! 


A guide to accepting and recycling gifts you’d never want: 

New Year’s Resolutions 

New Years is a time for a 

reflection of the past and 

more importantly, looking 

forward to the new year. 

A common tradition for the 

holiday is to make a goal 

or resolution for the year 

to come. Some commonly 

known resolutions are to 

get fit, help others, and get 

organized. Here are some of 

the New Years Resolutions 

from the chiefs. 

“To not fight with 

my parents.” 

Kayln 

Mossorofo (9) 

“I want to win 

States again” 

Ross Clark 

(11)


Around Town... Home for the Holidays? 

By CaitiDonahoe 

The Holidays are here! Whether you’re celebrating Christmas, Kwanzaa, or Hanukah, it is a 

time of great happiness, reverence, and celebration. We all have high expectations this winter season, 

so what can you do to make your holidays merrier than the others? Check out these fun Around Town 

ideas to see how. 

Lights, 

lights, lights! 

Tradewinds 

Park offers a 

spectacular 

drive through 

holiday light 

show that 

will knock 

your socks 

off. Located in Coconut Creek, over 150,000 visitors 

of all ages come to visit the three - mile long display 

full of all different types of lights. They also hand out 

3-D glasses to make the experience truly magical. It’s 

open from November 18 until January 2nd nightly from 

6-10 p.m. and it is just over 10 dollars for all of the 

passengers in your car! 

Did you 

know that the 

world’s largest 

Christmas 

theme park 

is located in 

your area? 

S a n t a ’ s 

Enchanted 

Forest often 

known as the “Miracle on 40th Street” is filled with 

over 100 rides, shows, games, and attractions. It 

is home to South Florida’s tallest Christmas tree, 

many lights and displays, festive Christmas music, 

delicious foods from around the world, and live show 

entertainment. Santa’s enchanted forest is fun for 

the whole family. This great attraction is open every 

day from November 3rd to January 8th from 5 p.m. 

to midnight. It is located at Tropical Park, Miami and 

although it is a bit of a drive, it is well worth it. 

Baking cookies and 

singing Christmas 

carols are now not 

your only things on 

your Christmas todo 

list this Holiday 

season. Tradewinds 

Park light show, 

Santa’s Enchanted 

Forest, and Christmas on Las Olas are merry 

activities that will not disappoint! 

If you don’t want to take the journey all the 

way to Miami, try Christmas on Las Olas! But don’t 

miss it because it is a one night thing, occurring 

on November 29. From 5 to 10 p.m., enjoy this 

Winterfest Celebration located in downtown Fort 

Lauderdale. Live bands and school choirs will be 

singing on the streets while visitors roam in and 

out of the shops and through the streets filled with 

many performers as well. You can also get your 

picture taken with Santa! Christmas on Las Olas 

brings cold weather activities to South Florida. You 

can test your skills in a ski stimulator or hit the ice 

skating rink. The best part of it all, it is absolutely 

free!


Perry Joochin - Kevin Hart 

Student Celebrity 

Tara Moras - Vanessa Hudgens 

Ali Jacobs - Taylor Momsen 

Henry Thomas - Robert Pattinson 

F 

R 

E 

S 

H 

M 

E 

N 

S 

O 

P 

H 

O 

M 

O 

R 

E 

S 

Andrea Marrero - Nicki Manaj 

Christian Reyaz - Taylor Lautner 

Sara Goodwin - Kaya Scodelario 

William Thies - Macaulay Culkin

December 2011 Entertainment | 23 

Look - A - Likes 

J 

U 

N 

I 

O 

R 

S 

Ryan Andino - Bruno Mars Montana Mungal - Kourtney Kardashian 

Ryan Giaratono - Justin Bieber 

Shannon Grimm - Brittany Snow 

Penny Motsett - Taylor Swift 

S 

E 

N 

I 

O 

R 

S 

Brigitte Morgan - Brittney Spears 

Timmy Jadotte - Usher 

By GiaManieri 

Joey Mueller - Chad Michael Murray

24 |Clubs Volume 50, Issue 3 

The Year of the Tempest 

Congratulations to our very own Troupe 6362 on their 

twelve “Superior” and eleven “Excellent” ratings at this 

years ITS District Competition. 

International Thespian Society, or ITS, is an honorary 

organization that recognizes and rewards students who 

demonstrate excellence and dedication in all areas of theater, 

including performance, technical, and theater administration. 

There are many different categories to compete in at the 

competition; from solo musical, to pantomimes, to set design, 

everyone has an opportunity to showcase their talents. This 

year’s District competition’s theme was “Year of the Tempest” 

in honor of the late Florida State Thespian Director, Leroy 

“Lee” Tempest. Tempest taught English and Drama at 

Deerfield Beach High School. He passed away unexpectedly 

on July 10, 2011. 

On Saturday, November 19 th , troupe 6362 competed 

against fifteen other high schools in the district. 

By CailinCooney 

Congratulations again to David 

Stewart “Gethsemne”, Bautista & Co. “Crucible”, Erin 

Hallick “Man of My Dreams”, Elizabeth Guttmann 

“Disneyland”, Ryan Horten “Giants in the Sky”, 

Christian Klein “I Believe”, Hallick & Mitchell “Casting 

Call for a Best Friend”, Klein & Williams “You’re 

Nothing Without Me”, Horten & Flavell “Mushnik and 

Son”, Susan Curry “Titus Andronicus”, Behan & Co. 

“21 Guns”, Hallick & Co. “Can’t I Just Be”, and Bush 

& Cooney “Pop Lock & Pirouette” for their “Superior” 

ratings. Also, a special congratulations to Horten & 

Flavell and Susan Curry on receiving Critics Choice. 

Cardinal Gibbons has not received a Critics Choice 

Award in six years! 

The next stop is the State Festival which is 

help during March! The Festival will host thespian 

troupes from all over Florida, and will showcase only 

the best of the best! Keep it up 6362! 

NHS GIVES BACK 

By CaitiDonahoe 

National Honor Society is arguably the most prestigious club 

here at Cardinal Gibbons and around the country. The 

number of service projects the club organizes and puts on is 

unbelievable. So what does National Honor Society really do to 

make it one of the best clubs on campus? 

The blood drive is the biggest service project NHS does 

here at Cardinal Gibbons. Members organize, advertise, and 

encourage students and faculty to donate blood. They provide 

the delicious snacks like cookies, bagels, and pizza along with 

various assorted beverages to make sure donors get the necessary calories back from loosing blood. 

NHS also does the canned food drive for Thanksgiving. While most people are in the cafeteria 

eating lunch, members are boxing up canned food and delivering it to homeless shelters around the 

county. 

“La, la, la, la, la!” In December, members go to a nursing home to sing Christmas songs. Christmas 

caroling is a great way to spread Holiday cheer, and NHS does a wonderful job. Also, you know those 

wonderful candy grams you like to send to your friends? Glenn Coco can thank National Honor Society 

for all those candy cane treats. 

There are many other projects that NHS does around school which often get unnoticed. Next 

time you hear of a blood drive, clean up, or food drive, you can expect the National Honor Society is in 

charge; remember to thank all of its members for doing so much for our school and community.

December 2011 Opinion | 25 

Coldplay: Mylo Xyloto Hugh Laurie: Let Them Talk 

By SusanCurry 

Mylo Xyloto is Coldplay’s fifth studio album. This 

high concept record tells the tale of two lovers 

(Mylo and Xyloto) in a dystopian society. Coldplay 

stays true to their industrial rock sound that made 

them so mainstream with albums such as Vida La 

Vida or Death and All His Friends and X&Y; after 

all, why fix something that isn’t broken. 

Mylo Xyloto was released on the 24 th of 

October after nearly three years in the making. 

Although you can take comfort in the fact that 

Mylo Xyloto is the same old familiar Coldplay, they 

did take a turn for the techno with tracks such 

as “Hurts Like Heaven”. Although the tracks are 

rather slow, as is the album as a whole, there are 

some pick-ups like “Princess of China” featuring 

Rihanna. 

This particular album is also far more 

acoustic than their previous records. The beats 

themselves are quite simple, but they drive along 

the soft acoustic melody that overlays Chris Martin’s 

piano, which has become somewhat his signature 

and creates that blatantly Coldplay sound. 

Famous British comedian and actor has 

transformed into a musician. Hugh Laurie 

released his debut album entitled “Let Them Talk” 

in May 2011. The extent of his musical ability up 

until this point was only seen in his sketches with 

Stephen Fry in “A Bit of Fry and Laurie” and more 

recently on the rare occasions when Dr. House felt 

the desire to play. 

Let Them Talk touches on the bluesier 

side of Laurie, featuring his take on famous tracks 

such as “St. James Infirmary” and “Swanee River”. 

Despite his British origin, Hugh Laurie, who bares 

a striking resemblance to Mr. Lee if you squint 

your eyes, drops you in the center of New Orleans 

during the very peak of the blues years. 

With long instrumentals and deep baritones 

this album is not necessarily for everyone, especially 

those who do not enjoy the combination of bluesy 

pianos, saxophones, basses, and trumpets.

26 |Opinion Volume 50, Issue 3 

A Book You Should’ve 

Would’ve, Could’ve Read: 

Catcher In the Rye By LorenHill 

Face it: when a teacher assigns a book that is coined as a “Classic” 

everyone in the classroom simultaneously sighs and rolls his or 

eyes. Each student already knows that there will be some form of online 

summary to study from because if it is a Classic then the book must 

be boring and torturous to read. The fact of the matter is that teachers 

assign these books because they ARE great reads and students 

SHOULD actually read them. Regrettably, I was never assigned to read 

J.D. Salinger’s Catcher in the Rye in American Literature sophomore 

year and now, as a senior, I happened to stumble upon a free copy and 

opted to read it in my spare time. 

Catcher in the Rye was published in 1951, which means it holds no difficult language and is an 

easy read. It is a wonderfully hilarious novel about a teenager named Holden Caulfield who leaves his prep 

school in Pennsylvania and wanders about the streets of New York City for three days. In this coming-of-age 

novel, Salinger presents the voice of both an adolescent and an adult in the character of Caulfield. Caulfield 

brings himself into adult situations with his still semi-immature mindset. Catcher truly is a classic and a very 

entertaining read, and I know many people can relate to it: in the words of Salinger himself, “It’s really too bad 

that so much crumby stuff is a lot of fun sometimes.”

December 2011 Food | 27 

Mexican 

By MaylisBroderick 

1Whole Enchilada: $ Ever in the mood for 

some authentic Mexican food? Well then the 

Whole Enchilada is the place to go! This original 

restaurant has one location in Ft. Lauderdale, 

but it definitely has made a name for itself. The 

Whole Enchilada has all the basic Mexican food 

but it is known for it’s salsa and it’s very original 

fish tacos. Not only is the food amazing but also 

the relaxing, laid back ambiance is even better! 

You can always expect great food here for a 

very reasonable price, and knowing that you are 

supporting a one of a kind restaurant makes the 

whole eating experience fulfilling. It is located on 

4115 North Federal Highway. 

Zona Fresca: $$ At Zona Fresca the mission is to 

create a “great place” where people in our community 

can gather, enjoy a high quality meal, and experience 

Mexican food that is fresh, light and can be consumed 

every day. They definitely do fulfill their mission! Zona 

Fresca is known for it’s salsa, burritos, and specialties 

like “taquitos”. One very unique thing about Zona 

Fresca is that it also sells alcoholic beverages to 

adults to go along with their meal, even 

though it’s more of a fast food restaurant. 

You can always expect consistently great 

food at Zona Fresca! It is located on 1635 

North Federal Highway. 

3 

Are you ever in the mood for Mexican 

food but don’t know where to 

go? Here is a review of the top 

five Mexican restaurants in town that 

will satisfy your Mexican cravings! 

2 

Tijuana Flats: $ Tijuana Flats is a great place to go eat out with 

your friends whenever you’re indecisive on where to eat! It not 

only has an up beat atmosphere, but great food as well. For a 

relatively low price you can order whatever you like with all the 

works already added unless you choose specific toppings to 

go with your meal. Also Tijuana Flats is especially known for its 

sauce bar! With endless possibilities going from extremely hot 

to mild, you can pick the perfect sauce for your meal. Tijuana 

Flats is located on 431 S. Federal Highway. 

4 

5 Chipotle: 

$=3 to 10 dollars 

$$= 10 to 17 dollars 

$$$=17 dollars and up 

La Bamba: $$ If you are ever in 

the mood for a sit down dinner 

with big servings of Mexican 

food then La Bamba is the place 

for you! La Bamba became so 

popular that there is even a La 

Bamba II. This restaurant will 

make you feel that you are in 

Mexico with its wall paintings and 

Spanish music constantly playing 

in the background. Also you will 

never leave La Bamba hungry 

because of its delicious, big 

servings of food! From their 

burrito to enchilada dinners, there 

is something for everyone. The 

original La Bamba is located on 

4245 N. Federal Highway. 

$ * Chipotle is the one 

the newer Mexican restaurants on 

the scene this year! Their menu has 

simple ingredients and is very easy 

to order from. Chipotle has four 

main items: burritos, burrito bowls, 

tacos, and salads. From there you 

can choose to add chicken, steak, 

beef, and pork. It also has a kid’s 

menu with small quesadillas and 

tacos. Another helpful guide is that 

Chipotle’s take out menus have 

nutrition facts! Chipotle is located 

on South Federal Highway right 

next to Pei Way.

28 |Food Volume 50, Issue 3 

Peppermint Chocolate Drop Cookies 

I don’t know if there’ll be snow, but have a cup of cheer (and a few cookies while you’re at it). One of 

the best parts of the Christmas season is the comforting sweets that remind us of family gatherings and the 

importance of the warmth we have in our hearts because of Jesus. This season, try out a few new recipes to 

keep the relatives on their toes: they’ll be begging for your secret recipe, but don’t forget to give Insight credit! 

Ingredients: 

½ cup butter, softened 

1 cup sugar 

1 egg 

2 ounces melted 

unsweetened chocolate, 

cooled 

1/3 cup buttermilk 

1 teaspoon vanilla 

1 ¾ cups flour 

½ teaspoon baking soda 

½ teaspoon salt 

Peppermint sticks 

Chocolate Drops: 

Mix butter, sugar, egg, chocolate, buttermilk, and vanilla in a bowl. Stir in flour, baking soda, and salt 

mixture until smooth. Cover the bowl with a cloth and chill for one hour. 

After an hour, heat the oven to 400°. Use two teaspoons to form dough into rounded cookies, and 

place on baking sheet about 2 inches apart. Bake 8 to 10 minutes, then immediately remove the cookies 

from the baking sheet to cool. Once they are cooled, frost with vanilla butter icing, and sprinkle with shredded 

peppermint sticks. 

Vanilla Butter Icing: 

Blend ¼ cup soft butter and 2 cups of confectioners’ sugar. Stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla and about 2 

tablespoons of light cream. Beat until creamy smooth. 

Make chocolate drop cookies a new part of your Christmas tradition. 

By MeganMcGee

December 2011 Food | 29 

Tiramisu 

This is a traditional Italian dessert recipe that literally means “pick me up” because of the caffeine in the 

dessert. It is a light pudding-like cake that goes well with coffee, but it might not be the best idea to serve 

tiramisu on Christmas Eve; we all know that Santa won’t come until everyone is fast asleep. 

Ingredients: 

6 cups coffee, cooled 

1 shot of espresso (if desired) 

3 tablespoons Kahlua 

2 tablespoons sugar 

8 ounces cream cheese 

2 tablespoons sour cream 

1 pint heavy whipping cream 

2 tablespoons powdered sugar 

1 package Stella Dora lady fingers 

Sweetened cocoa powder 

By MeganMcGee 

Directions: 

1. In a small pan, dissolve sugar into coffee and Kahlua. 

2. In one bowl, whip cream cheese and sour cream. 

3. In another bowl, whip heavy whipping cream. 

4. Add powdered sugar to heavy whipping cream, and then add 

the cream cheese mixture. 

5. Dip lady fingers one at a time into coffee mixture until they are 

soggy, and place them in the bottom of an 8x8 serving dish to 

form a layer that covers the bottom of the dish. 

6. Take ½ the cream cheese/ whipping cream mixture, and 

spread it over the first layer of lady fingers so they are completely 

covered. 

7. Sprinkle cocoa powder on top. 

8. Repeat another layer of soggy lady fingers on top of the 

cream. 

9. Spread the rest of the cream mixture 

over the lady fingers. 

10. Sprinkle cocoa over cream once again. 

11. As a final touch, shave chocolate over 

the entire dessert. 

12. Refrigerate overnight. 

13. Add shaved chocolate for garnish. 

Tiramisu is an authentic italian dessert 

that contains coffee, but you don’t need 

to be a coffee lover to enjoy this sweet 

treat.

30 |Games Volume 50, Issue 3 

 

 

 

 

Across 

2. A color that symbolizes 

pure, new life 

4. Waiting under the tree 

the morning of December 

25th 

5. This snowman will be 

back again some day 

7. A ring of evergreen 

trimmings 

8. Best when half mixed 

with marshmellows 

10. Make sure this is 

swept free of soot for 

Santa 

11. He’s making a list 

13. Color that symbolizes 

Jesus’s sacrifice 

15. The flavor of a classic 

candy cane 

17. Color that symbolizes 

everlasting 

life 

18. These 

decorations 

brighten 

everyone’s 

yard. 

19. Falling 

at around 32 

degrees 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Printed by 

Print Dynamics 

1721 N. Federal Highway 

Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33305 

954-563-0775 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sudoko 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Answers found on page 31 

Down 

1. The reason for 

the season 

3. The season in 

which Christmas 

occurs 

6. The most famous 

reindeer of all 

9. Hanging from the 

tree in your living 

room 

11. Santa’s speedy 

carriage 

12. The pole where 

Santa lives 

14. The official 

sound of Christmas 

16. Santa’s special 

helpers 

By MaylisBroderick

December 2011 Games | 31 

MadLibs: Decorating the Tree 

Many people decorate their Christmas (Noun) 

on Christmas Eve. Last year (Person) had a/an 

(Adjective) party and everyone helped (Verb) 

the tree. (Another Person) brought tinsel and 

(Plural Noun). And (Another Person) brought 

lots of fresh (Type of Food, Plural) and candy 

(Another Type of Food, Plural) to put on 

the tree. The most important decoration, of 

course, is the string of colored electric (Plural 

Noun). A few dozen (Adjective) lights make 

any tree look (Adjective). And most stores 

sell round, sparkly (Plural Noun) and little 

(Adjective) balls to hang on the branches. 

But the hardest decoration to pick is the one 

that goes right on top. Once that (Noun) is 

up, you know that the (Adjective) season has 

officially started. Of course, if you are too 

(Adjective) to have a tree for Christmas, 

you can decorate your (Noun) or hang (Plural 

Noun) on your (Noun). Then the neighbors will 

say, “(Exclamation)!” 

Crossword Answers: 

Across 

2. white 

4. gifts 

5. Frosty 

7. wreath 

8. coca 

10. chimney 

11. Santa 

13. red 

15. peppermint 

17. green 

18. lights 

19. snow 

Crossword Answers 

Down 

1. Jesus 

3. winter 

6.Rudolph 

9. ornaments 

11. sleigh 

12. north pole 

14. bells 

16. elves

Dec 11 - Cardinal Gibbons High School

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