Countryside High School Paw Print Newspaper Volume 29 Issue 1

The countryside high school

PAW PRINT 3000 SR 580

Friday, September 21st, 2007 - VOLUME 29, Issue 1 www.cnmcountryside.com

Clearwater, Florida

Homecoming Traditions

2 The Pack is Back

5 So You Wanna get a Tattoo...

8 Freshman Special Edition

staff photo Samantha Malone

Y

ellow lockers were replaced by sleek garnet lockers over the summer. This was just one of many changes to Countryside’s appearance.

Silent change slips into Countryside High xanderURBEN

staff writer

As the freshmen of 2007-2008 wander into their first year of high school, they are probably unaware they are pioneering numerous changes that have swept through Countryside High School. Decisions that have been as local as the county and as broad as the nation will each have their impact on the lives and schedules of those who attend CHS. The most obvious of the amendments, signaled by the flood of new portables is Cougar U, a program designed to bond new students better to the school and its community. Special teams of teachers interact with ninth grade students only, in hopes a refreshing student-teacher relationship that will help keep kids in school. Statistics show around one-third of students are lost by the time graduation rolls around.

“Kids aren’t prepared when they come to 9th grade,” said guidance counselor, Mike Silverstein. “The academy is trying to develop a team concept.”

Cougar U also includes a program called “Putting On The HEAT”.

“We accept no zeroes, and accept no failures,” said guidance counselor Roberta Hill.

‘HEAT’ stands for Help Eliminate Academic Tardies, and for those students who refuse to do their homework and classwork, they will spend their Tuesdays and Thursdays completing them with administrator Christopher Bates. This will not only allow the administrators to become more familiar with incoming students, but encourage ninth graders to do their work, if only to avoid staying in school even longer.

Something more noticed by the upper grades might be HOPE, or Health Opportunities through Physical Education. Previous grades were required to take Health and Personal Fitness, required for graduation. HOPE merges both of these classes into a single semester, possibly allowing students to streamline their schedules.

But whatever relief HOPE might offer is challenged by the new graduation requirements and the majors/minors program - the former includes a credit of fine art and an additional math requirement; the latter orders incoming freshmen to choose a major and a minor, around which their schedule will revolve.

“The legislation wants all students to have an academic focus,” said administrator Lewis Curtwright.

Each student registers their major and minor of choice during registration, and may change their major and minor at registration every year.

Most monumental to new and old students alike is the ruling of the Supreme Court case, Parents Involved in Community Schools v. Seattle School Dist. No. 1. The Court ruled race is no longer able to determine which public schools children may attend. This has led to a reformation of the CHOICE. program, which will eliminate required ratios that were included in effect from 2003 to 2007.

2534

1850 new lockers

students

COUNTRYSIDE 17 portables

$8.5

million

new AC, fire alarm, lights, lockers, bus area

2

FEATURES

Lights, Camera, Action morganSWIM

staff writer

Tradition – a word not usually associated with homecoming by most students who participate.

When it comes to girls, dresses, dancing and crowns race through their minds, while boys think of home game glory. But what is homecoming really about? How did this right of high school passage begin?

The mere utterance of the word homecoming produces many different thoughts, ideas and memories for students. In Pinellas County high schools, homecoming includes a sports event, usually football. After the game is the homecoming dance that traditionally includes a homecoming king, queen and court. Some students believe the homecoming court is a popularity contest and are quick to judge its importance but it is actually a time honored tradition and most candidates are in fact judged more often on their character than their social standings.

“I think homecoming court is a vital aspect of the homecoming experience,” said history teacher, Chris Settle.

The homecoming dance is usually the most anticipated of homecoming events. Whether it be for the prestige of election to homecoming court, the fun themes and dancing, or maybe just a good excuse to ask out a special someone.

Homecoming dances often have a theme to them such as a Hawaiian Luau or Undersea Ball. Themes can be expressed through lighting, decorations, students attire for the evening or even in the style of music played that night. This year at Countryside, our theme has been set for a night at the cinema with a classical atmosphere to include the elegant 1920’s film era. Old time style and beauty will be running the reels and students will undoubtly have a rip-roaring good time.

Countryside will have the time honored tradition of Spirit Week leading up to the homecoming football game. During this week, students can wear clothing or accessories corresponding to each day, such as Character Day or Twin Day. Most schools hold at least one pep rally before the game to enhance school spirit.

The homecoming dance encourages relations between students of every grade as all students are allowed to attend; in fact, homecoming was initially created to bring students and alumni together. The first homecomings were in the early 1900’s and hosted by colleges for publicity. Eventually the event evolved from an invite of alumni and students to the final home game to a full blown school tradition.

Over the years, the tradition of homecoming eventually trickled down from colleges and universities to high schools. Though the events or procedures may vary from college and high school levels, and from school to school in general, homecoming has become a solid high school tradition and will continue to spread school spirit for years to come.

3

NEWS

The Choice Is No Longer Yours... pauline MURPHY

staff writer

Segregation has been a problem throughout much of history, most notably during the mid-20th century in America. It is one, however, that U.S. citizens are finding new solutions for every day.

In the mid-1960s, 10,000 of the 10,200 African American students in Pinellas attended “all black” public schools and no “white” children attended predominately African American public schools. Due to this, a court ordered plan for busing students was issued in Pinellas on July 21, 1971 in order to desegregate its schools. As recently as the year 2000, Pinellas County was faced, yet again, with a less drastic degree of this problem. It was believed that ethnicities were not distributed equally enough in neighbor-

hood schools. School Board members felt this needed to change. They were driven by the idea that every student should be acquainted with peers from multiple cultures and diverse backgrounds. The solution to this problem was the Choice Plan. This plan of action was designed to increase the likelihood of voluntary integration in schools through parent choice.

The process included parents indicating their preferences as to which school they would best like to see their child attending. Parents had to submit an application stating their most desirable school of choice, along with two alternatives, the year prior to their child entering kindergarten, sixth, or ninth grade. Or if a student intended to change schools, enter, or re-enter the school district at the beginning of a new school year. Proposed on October 24, 2000, this plan of action took affect in August of 2003.

Now, four years after the plan was first put into effect, the Pinellas County school board is making changes.

Members of the board are scheduled to have a final vote on November 13 2007, to approve a new plan.

This new student assignment plan proposes students attend the schools closest to their home, regardless of where they go now. The plan will likely uproot students from their current schools and inevitably end the current school choice program. One such person that this plan would greatly affect is Countryside High School Junior, Amanda Jones. Amanda lives in Pasco County, but was given permission by the School Board under the choice plan to attend Countryside. Switching back to neighborhood schools would mean that Amanda would have to attend a school in Pasco County.

“My neighborhood school is Mitchell High School and I don’t want to leave my friends at Countryside my senior year,” she said.

Approximately 100-150 bus routes could be eliminated, and needed busing would have shorter trips, ultimately saving money, if kids attend schools in their neighborhoods.

Reducing busing may be considered a positive factor of the new plan, but some controversy regarding this idea has already arisen among parents that are dissatisfied with the idea that their children will have to move from a school where they have already found much comfort. Due to this, other options to please parents are being considered such as, allowing students to stay where they are if parents can find their own means of transportation for their child to get to the school.

“My dad drives me to school before he goes to work in the morning and after school I can get a ride with a friend,” said Amanda.

However, School Board member Carol Cook stated an opposing point at a recent board meeting.

“We need to make sure those particular seats in the school aren’t needed for children that live close to that school...And just to say, ‘Well, we’ll let you stay there and provide your own transportation’ can cause some problems.”

This just goes to show that it is very difficult to please everyone. In spite of this, discussions will continue about factors that affect the plan at meetings scheduled for August 24-September 17, 2007. Additional meetings are planned for October 8-10, 2007. School board leaders will search for a way to please the majority of the people with help from the public, getting their inputs and opinions

4

CULTURE

Coming To America marcelaMATI

staff writer

Here at Countryside High School, we pride ourselves in having such a culturally diverse school. The countless European, Asian, African, and South American students bring many aspects of their cultures to America. Being born a citizen in America is often taken for

granted. Americans are born with numerous rights and freedoms, as well as a free school system. Not all parts of the world are so providential. Take into consideration the stories of three students not born in the United States of America.

The first additions to our school, twin brothers and seniors, Hassen and Mohcine Zidouhia come from Casablanca, Morocco. The other is sophomore, Dino Tabakovic from Dubica, Bosnia. They all say the reason they are here is for a better and easier life. One of the obstacles people may face when entering the U.S. is the change in language. English can be a challenging language to learn, due to the infinite slang words and homonyms, words that are identical in sound and spelling but have varying meanings. According to the US Census Bureau Report, U.S. residents ages five and older speak a foreign language at home.

These students just want a better quality of life and have found their refuge in America. Dino Tabakovic came to America because of the insecurity and turmoil of war.

“I like it a lot here,” said Dino Tabakovic.

A l though he lived in Germany for five years, America presented an even better life. He described Bosnia as “a poor country,” Germany as “all farming,” and America as “all cities.”

These families that travel from distant countries want to start a new and, hopefully, improved life. Hassen simply says, “I hope to learn English and meet friends.” His brother, Mohcine agrees and quickly adds with a smile, “and play soccer.”

Hey What’s Up? Bosnian:

staff photo Megan Hays

10% Discount for Countryside Students

Dino Tabakovic

French: Arabic: staff photo Megan Hays

Hassan and Mohcine Zidouhia

(Read from right to left)

Appointments Available Walk-Ins Welcome •Acrylic Nails •Gel Nails •Pink & White •Color Tip •Airbrush/Hand desings •Spa Manicure & Pedicure •Waxing •Eyelash Extension

Freshman Survival Guide

staff photo Samantha Malone

I

ncoming freshmen Emily Mogran, Brynna Zuck and Casey Malone admire some of the volleyball, track and wrestling trophies at the front entrance of the school.

Been there, done that-freshmen memories meganHAYS, joePOLT & sabrinaROCCO

staff writers

“You’re all seniors and juniors, oh and there are a few sophomores, but none of you are freshman right?” I slowly raised my hand, trying not to let anyone see me. It was the first day of Debate class and everyone was older than me.

Freshman year can be pretty daunting, but knowing a few tricks it will make everything a lot easier.

“I definitely wish I had been in more clubs than FLAT (Freshmen Leadership Advisory Team), and saved more fun classes for senior year,” said sophomore Tony Valletta.

Don’t forget to get involved. Clubs will help you meet people with similar interests. Joining clubs also looks good when applying for college. Be sure to listen to the morning and afternoon announcements for more information.

You may not think grades are important yet, because you are only a freshman; but you thought wrong! If you are planning on going to college, it’s only four years away and you will have to start applying after your junior year. All your grades count now. If you want Bright Futures scholarships, you also can’t forget to do some volunteer work.

“I did my volunteer work early and I’m glad I did. It will definitely be worth it, in the end,” said sophomore staff writer and artist, Joe Polt.

“Learn to control yourself,” said sophomore Austin Piechocki.

Don’t fall in with the wrong crowd. There will be new experiences and new people all around, and it can be hard to tell what is good and bad, but when in doubt don't do it.

Also, get to know the faculty instead of going against them.

Just because they are faculty doesn’t mean they are out to get you.

“I wish I kept my middle school friends. A lot of us grew apart and now I don’t really know some of them. It’s sad,” said sophomore Kelsie Hubbard.

Remember your old friends, but also be open to new people. Try to make friends from all sorts of different groups and grade levels. Just be yourself; don’t try too hard.

Also, try not to be absent for more than four days because absences will catch up with you when it comes around to exam time. Taking those two days off feels so much better than taking several days off and having to take your exams.

We can't mention names, but many freshmen got suspended, or expelled from school for various reasons. Remember: Don't take the chance when it comes to drugs, alcohol, or violence. Bringing a weapon, drugs, alcohol, or cigarettes aren't worth messing up your future. Doing things out of school can also get you into trouble. Making these mistakes can result in being assigned to an

alternative learning center.

Nothing feels better than going home and surprising your parents with a straight A report card. Parents will allow more freedom if they trust you. Earning your parents respect and keeping it intact can only help in the long run.

staff photo Heather MacDonald

S

tudents work on their homework assignments in Mr. Carter’s class.

Sophomore staff writer and photographer Megan Hays said, "Just because you're in high school doesn't make you grown up. You have to learn your responsibilities before you go out and ruin everyone's trust in you. You're still growing up and you should enjoy it as long as you can."

FO

HINTS heatherMACDONALD

to get you through f r

staff writer

Although freshmen may think high school is all about taking easy-to-pass classes, partying with friends, and relaxing the rest of the way, there is another side that most students don’t even consider until it’s too late.

There are some things that should be taken care of in the fi rst year so students won't feel overwhelmed in the years that follow.

For instance, freshmen may fi nd that taking certain classes early in high school will be very beneficial. Th is helps students to not feel so unprepared before entering their second year of high school. But what classes to take?

“I should have taken Algebra I in my freshman year,” said junior Hannah Lachapelle. By getting the more difficult classes out of the way, students might feel less stressed as they approach their senior year.

Another suggestion that will help not only in high school, but will be a life-long aid is to "have good study habits," said French teacher Francine Louis. Sounds simple, but this will truly be an advantage in the career of the students' choice. If practiced early on, good study habits will make classes much easier and students’ grades will benefit.

Also, freshmen should join one, if not several different clubs, to get a sense of belonging and feel as if they are truly a part of Countryside High.

Whatever interests the students, there is sure to be a club that will welcome them with open arms. Th is will not only make students feel involved, but can help them decide what they want to do, once out of high school.

One last tip, before getting settled in with classes, teachers, and the over-crowded hallways, try becoming familiar with the school and the daily routine. Knowing where the different wings are will prevent freshmen from being late to their classes or worse, getting lost while trying to find them. Students should plan enough time to get from class to class, if they want to talk to friends beforehand or need to stop by their lockers. Deciding when to do this will help with time management, which will then make school life easier. By simply knowing what to expect, most problems can be avoided.

High school will be difficult, but following these tips can help make the journey easier. The experience can still be fun, but students should be careful not to slack off or decide not to try their best in any class.

If they are simply the best students they can be, freshman year should be a breeze.

LENIENT R

ULES:

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•Parking space s: not sup posed to b e painted o n but.. it ’s not hea vily enforc ed...

LES id-thigh, RCED RU O F N E skirts past m Y t, is a w r u o HEAVIL y ts are above re your pan h out!! su tc e a k a w m so : . e •Dress cod, sleeves on your shirt etc no hats

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PET E E V E S

I hhate it the most when students don't ask confident questions, you've got to be confidentt

‘

•Respect

is a major prioritytowards teachers and classmates. It bothers teachers to see disrespect in their class rooms.

World History teacher Pierce Brunson

‘

‘

Sleeping in class S then asking how to do this [work] k]

•Okay,

lets go back to Pre-K. Raise your hand to speak. It's as simple as that.

Algebra 1 teacher Mary-Beth Williams

•Clean

up your trash. Don't leave it. Your teacher is not your maid.

‘

It aggravates me that students cheat.

It also aggravates me when students don't do their work ork

•Cell

phones are not only disrupting, but they can get you into some serious trouble. Do yourself a favor and turn it off. That text from your boyfriend or girlfriend can wait.

‘

Marine Biology teacher Elizabeth McGovern

•There's always at least one kid in each class who complains about everything. Don't be that kid.

‘

I'm disappointed I' that the actions of a few ruin it for all, so please dispose of your gum properly ly

‘

Drafting teacher Michel Pasierb

Save yourself the hassle of having your teachers annoyed with you this year.

jordanGENTRY

staff writer

staff photos Xander Urben and Sabrina Rocco

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CAN YOU SPOT THE DIFFERENCE?

The Best Unintentionally Kept Secrets feliciaPARTEE

staff writer

To the overwhelmed freshman, high school can seem a big step from small time middle school. Countryside has the largest student population in Pinellas County, so it’s natural that things would be overlooked. In little, out-of-the-way corners of Countryside are some interesting artifacts and displays, not to mention other oddities.

Flickering lights, strange noises, and crashes are odd occurrences the drama kids know well. A ghost has, supposedly, been haunting the Prop Cage in the auditorium for twenty-two years. It is rumored that the ghost was a drama student here at Countryside, with a bright acting future ahead of her. Countryside lost this rising star in a tragic car accident and since then her ghost Staff photo Felicia Partee has been known to frequent the stage. kateboards defying gravity down the MSkateboards doing what they do best, wing. Sculpture by senior Ryan Dorr. defying gravity. This eye-squinting, headturning paper littered work of art is at the end of the very long M-wing. Art work from fellow Countryside High School students is almost always on display. From sculptures to paintings, and photography to large murals, there are always amazing works of art to be seen here. Artwork changes throughout the year so check back frequently.

Moving through the concourse between classes is a dangerous route. This is Angelo domain. John Angelo, the all knowing Campus Monitor has some of the best theories, stories, and ideas about life.

“What if, by some magic spell, all the squirrels in the world were changed into rabid Silver Back Gorillas?” says Angelo. This being only one of the many anecdotes he states at the simple request of “Hey Angelo, tell us a story!”

Venturing down the F-Wing, notice the shadow boxes placed up on the right side of the hallway. But simply taking the time to move away from them to avoid a head splitting injury in the treacherously crowded hallway isn’t really noticing them. On your right there are a variety of shells and newspaper clippings about the myth inspiring giant squid and science-fiction sized jellyfish.

On your journey through high school, be sure to find these hidden treasures. While you’re at it uncover some of your own or even add to this cache. This is, after all, not only a journey for the books.

S

Staff photos Marcela Mati

1)Globe switched with book 2)Books on table 3)Statues swtiched 4)Chairs moved 5)books appear on shelf

CHS CLUBS

Ho

ved l o v n I t e w to G

ANESE helen CAT

r

staff write

of our clubs at least a few t u o e ab rd ea ly h lved yet? Rid You’ve probab en’t you invo ar y rh o b w d o, n S u tr yside. o they just so here at Coun ework? Or d m ses leave. o u h b h re it o w ef place b e k a bus? Busy ta s g n ti counting. club mee 0 clubs and 6 y ing? Many t rl ea n e av ot being a par on we h somebody n r Not to menti fo er se n w cu o ex more ly no it more fun, “There’s real es ” ak g, n m ro It w . r h ght o ide Hig e way I feel ri of Countr ys th lo ’s C at h Th et zab school… ctivities, Eli ship of your letics and A th A f o r to said Direc vities we offer urricular acti ac lins. u tr ex e th f o ing iliar with. Yo Here is a list ay not be fam m u yo . at ce th tr yside the front offi here at Coun mplete list in co e th p u k ic can also p

• • • • • • • • • •

• • •

On top of all the fantastic club s we already have, there are also three more being establis hed this year. The first is Art Club - Jay Titus a Surf club with history teacher Dave Sica as advisor. They Fellowship of Christian Students will discuss surfing and where to find the best waves, but - Anita Steers do not actually partake in sur fing as a club due to policy French Club - TBA issues. The next is the Gay Straigh t Alliance (GSA) which Future Educator’s Club - Jamy Hoch guidance counselor Katherine Santiago will advise. The GFWC Clearwater Juniorettes - Jane Hussar GSA advocates the acceptance of all people not based on Interact Club - Dawn Hartley gender preference, and works to inform the public so they Key Club may better understand how to overcome prejudice. Its first - Mike Fresia and Marcella Robinson meeting is scheduled for Octob er. Our third new club is Marine Biology Club - Sue Curnutte Students For Global Awareness.

They hope to inform and Mu Alpha Theta - Travis Short evoke action from teens to hel p with global issues. There Multicultural Club is more on them in The 411.

Each club promises to be a - Chris Bates, Rick Amstutz, and Irene fun, and enriching addition to our repertoire of extracurBachman ricular activities.

Poetry Club - Ron Marn Joining is as easy as listening to the announcements.

SADD (Students Against Destructive Dec.) Many of our clubs gladly allow anyone who wishes to see - Officer John Cavaliere (SRO) what they are all about to attend a meeting or two and do Spanish Honor Society - Monica Diba so. So look for several clubs tha t sound fun or interesting to you; after all, what better way is there to get involved with your school and meet new people who share your interests?

SPORTS

5

The boys are back in town andrewWOOD

staff writer

The heat is blistering, the cannons are loaded, and the face paint is fresh. This can only mean one thing; football season is here. The Countryside football team opened the season with a dominating victory over Pinellas Park. Both offense and defense played equally well. The Cougar’s duel running backs ran all over Pinellas Park, and the defense virtually shut down their oponents. The Cougars scored a touchdown on offense, defense, and special teams showing how well rounded they are. The team definitely came prepared. They had been working all summer, molding a playoff hopeful team.

In the off-season, as the sun shone over them, the team gathered at the field for a two-thirty practice. The players start off doing individual workouts in which they work exclusively with their positions. That’s followed by offense vs. defense drills. Then they move into a controlled scrimmage and special teams practice. A long day of practicing is ended by running and sprints. Most of the players on the team aren’t quite used to the workload of a normal varsity training, but it’s a learning experience.

“It’s good for the new players to get a feel for the practice, get used to the equipment, and adjust to playing in the heat,” said assistant coach Jeff Davis of new players and practice.

Not that the team is inexperienced, just very young.

The offense consists of only one returning starter from last year and the defense only two. This season the new players

will have to fill the void created by the loss of several key senior players. The veteran players have been supportive of the new additions.

“A lot of the new guys have played well and are ready to take the needed positions,” said senior guard Logan Ungerer.

Another issue that has people talking is the quarterback controversy. Right now there are two definitive starting quarterbacks, sophomore Ryan Ebson, and junior Jim Snellick.

With both quarterbacks having their own talents, a duel Q.B. system might be something to consider.

“They both have certain quastaff photo Christina Lupi lities that we can use in situations. We might use both come ountryside’s football team huddles up behind the Cougar tunnel to say a pre-game season start,” said Davis. prayer before the opening home game against Pinellas Park.

This year the main goal is a state championship, but the road there won’t be easy. They’ll play their first three gaFortunately the team has a history of success. Three mes at home against Pinellas Park, Gibbs, and St. Pete, but out of the past four years the Cougars have been district after that they’ll go straight into district play including a champions, and even though they placed second last year game against Dunedin. at 8-3 it was good enough for a playoff berth.

C

When school spirit goes too far christinaLUPI

staff photo Me gan Hay

s

staff writer “Sometimes, it gets ridiculous on how rude people are.

School spirit may seem like it’s the thing to do in high They’ll go to any length to disrespect somebody from the other team. I think it just shows school in order to be part of their immaturity and stupidthe crowd. Showing comity,” said sophomore Jaymie mitment to the team never Shade. hurt anybody, but what hapWhile putting down the pens when school spirit goes other team in order to boost too far? your team’s confidence, going Everyone has their own clique, too far is a problem. a place they belong. When Friday “There’s no reason for fights at rolls around, everybody knows a game. [The worst part about the what day it is; game day. disrespect at games] is the possibilFootball is a huge part of ity that somebody could get hurt,” Countryside, and students know said junior Richard Shockley. that going to the games is crucial During a few games last year, in order to belong in the school with some fans decided to go out to fans being an exceptional part of the the parking lot and vandalize experience. They come out to all the cars. Sledge hammers, crow bars, games, get painted up and cheer the and spray paint landed on cars. entire time. With all of the fun from “Countryside sucks” was written the fans and the football game itself, all over them. When the police there is a fine line between being a were alerted about this problem, good sport and going too far. there was nothing they could do.

Home games are always the The culprits had run off and nobody most exciting. Being at the home could identify the them. There was no video field is always an advantage beevidence or witnesses to stop the problem. “I cause the opponent is in “our remember when all of this happened. It happened to a house”. Everything seems to be friend of mine. He was so going perfect durupset. His car was totaled,” ing the game and reshmen Teela Armstrong (left) and Savannah Stona show their said senior Erin Nel. then disaster hits. school spirit for Countryside’s first football game of the season.

F

Harbor Wireless

6

OPINION

Rage against the steroid machine rogerSCHMIDT

sports editor

On July 1, 2007 the Florida state legislature voted on a new law that will make random steroid testing mandatory for 9-12 grade student athletes. This program has been established as a one year pilot testing program. Students, however will not be tested for the use of recreational drugs. Each steroid test administered will cost Florida $175 per student. Those student athletes who participate in the following sports will be suspect to the random drug screening; boys baseball, girls flag football, boys tackle football, girls softball, and finally girls and boys weight lifting. The goal of this project is to eliminate high school steroid abuse athletes in the state of Florida. Tests are administered to detect anabolic steroids, synthetic hormones which promote rapid tissue growth.

A whopping 550 public and private Florida high schools will be eligible for student athlete anabolic steroid testing.

Athletes that test positive for anabolic steroids will pay a harsh penalty. For a first offense the athlete will be suspended from practice and competition in all sports for a period of 90 days and the student must attend and complete a drug education program. If the athlete does not pass a secondary drug screening after the 90 day suspension the penalty will be extended.

Today’s sports world has become closely associated with the evils of steroids and their harmful effect on an athletes body, then how have steroids sifted through the “sports ladder” down to the high school level? Perhaps the answer lies behind the suspicious antics displayed by professional superstars.

“The professional athlete is idolized as a role model for many high school athletes; young impressionable athletes want to emulate their favorite (professional) superstars,” says assitant football coach Jeff Davis Professional sports icons such as Barry Bonds and Shawne Merriman have both become poster boys for the “steroid era” of sports. Athletes must realize that they are the heroes of today’s youth. They are role models for teenagers. These idols appear wealthy and in good health to suceptible and impressionable athletes. Superstar wrestling

sensation Chris Benoit had appeared to be an immortal figure among his fans. On June 26, 2007 Benoit became an enraged "killing machine." He violently suffocated his wife and child soon before he hanged himself in a family gymnasium. These actions quickly became associated with "roid rage" (an outburst of violent or aggressive behavior associated with steroid use).

Not only are these sports figures ruining the integrity of the professional game but they have also plagued sports at the high school level. The most devastating news of all is that superstars are rarely remorseful or ashamed of their actions. Professional athletes must become aware of the harm that they inflict upon the lives of millions of high school students.

“The more the professionals use steroids, the more high school and college kids will use them (steroids)," said head basketball Coach, Myron Huey.

But the damage has already been done. In a recent study performed by the University of Michigan, 2.7% of high school senior athletes have admitted to using steroids at some point in their lifetime. If action is not taken immediately honest sports could be gone forever. Some high school athletes are appalled at the overuse of steroids at the high school level.

"Steroids are pointless and harmful," said student athlete Richard Serra.

The simple fact is that the high risk is not worth the reward. Along with severe health consequences, many kids have become victims of roid rage suicide. Suicide is the third leading killer of people aged 15-24. In 2004, 11.8 suicide attempts were tallied per day for the 15-24 year old age group (motives for suicide not limited to steroid use). Steroids induce depression, low self-esteem, anger, and abusive behavior. All of these characteristics can lead to homicide or suicide.

There is no place for steroids in sports at any level and they should be abolished, not just in our country but rather all over the world. The new system of steroid enforcement will ensure fairness for all parties: students, teams and schools. It is important for all student athletes to understand the physical, moral, social effects of steroid use. Hopefully the new legislation will succeed.

PAW PRINT STAFF 3000 S.R. 580 Cleawater, Florida 33761

727.725.7956 EXT. 2046 Fax 727.725.7990 http://my.highschooljournalism.org/fl/clearwater/csh/ Editors In Chief Staff Writers

Samantha Malone, Aneta Kozub & Andew Tannahill Christopher Carr, Helen Cantanese, Jessica Congdon, Jordan Gentry, Vincent Grub, Megan Hays, Jannelle Howell, Christina Lupi, Heather Macdonald, Marcela Mati, Haley Maerker, Pauline Murphy, Felicia Partee, Joseph Polt, Sabrina Rocco, Roger Schmidt, Morgan Swim, Alexandre Urben, Andrew Wood & Alessandra Young

Adviser Principal

Joyce Dimmer Gerald Schlereth

Do you agree there should be mandatory steroid testing on student athletes?

“No, I don’t want to be tested because it’s an invasion of privacy.”

Charles Mcdaniel Freshman

“Yes, because it’s dangerous and they can stop it before it gets out of control.”

Erica Wagner Sophomore

“Yes, because steroids give people an unfair advantage.”

Madison Truluck Junior

“Yes, because steroids are ruining school sports, it gives an unfair advantage.”

Jimmy Nall Sophomore

Share your Opinions If you would like to write a letter to the editor, please bring your completed letter to A-3. Letters should include the writer’s name and grade.

They may be edited for taste, clarity and length.

Florida Scholastic Press Association- All Florida Southern Interscholastic Press Association- Superior Quill and Scroll- International Second Place Award The Paw Print is published by the newspaper staff at Countryside High School.

Advertising rates are available upon request by calling (727)725-7956 ext. 2046. Advertising which pro motes illegal products under Florida Law, or opposes any religion will not be accepted.

The Paw Print has been established as an open forum for student expression as outlined in the Student Press Law Center’s model guidelines for student publications. The opinions expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of the faculty and administration but rather of the author or the newspaper staff and its editors.

The Paw Print welcomes letters to the editor on topics of interest to Countryside High School and its sur round ing community. We also welcome contributions from writers not associated with the newpaper staff. All freelance material should be submitted to room A-3. All submissions must bear the author’s name.

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ENTERTAINMENT Keith Urban

Love, Pain and the Whole Crazy Thing, is just another stereotypical country album. All of the music and lyrics seemed to blend together so much that it was hard to tell when a new song began. It was a truly disappointing album. Keith Urban better step it up next time, or just not try at all.

Bottom Line: “Love, Pain, and the Whole Crazy Thing” has little creativity. Keith Urban disappoints us once again.

Reviewed by: Haley Merker

Collective Soul

marcelaMATI

staff writer

Collective Soul has come a long way from their 90’s roots with their staff photo Megan Hays eighth CD Afterwards. They’ve become a sort of grungy alternative rock hybrid with hints of their old ballad style blended in. There may be a song or felicia PARTEE staff writer two that is just a bit on the repetitive side, but for the most part In 2001, Jason Russell, Bobby Bailey, and Afterwards is a strong album with clever lyrics and well polished Laren Poole, three college students, set out music shining through. Definitely worth every penny of it’s 13.99 to document an ongoing war. Since then price tag. the movement has hit hard on the youth of America. The idea of child soldiers in this Bottom Line: This is a solid CD depite day and age is appalling. Thousands upon some minor flaws. thousands of students are standing up and uniting. Students for Global Awareness, is a group here at Countryside, whose goal is to assist in the Invisible Children movement.

Reviewed by: Helen Cataneese Movie screenings, fundraisers and of course being a part of Schools-for-Schools are some of the activities taking place this year. Schools-forSchools is an idea that Invisible Children organizaRingo Starr tion came up with, one school raises money to help support another school in Uganda, to give the kids a He’s the beat of the place to go and learn, and just have fun being kids.

Beatle’s, he’s better than Pete Best, www.invisiblechildren.com he’s Ringo Starr! “Photograph” is an excellent,

A 3.4-magnitude tremor struck Basel, Switzerland when geothermal energy engineers drilled three miles underground in search for new, inexhaustible sources of energy by tapping into the Earth’s crust. According to scientists, geothermal energy could meet the world’s yearly need for power 250,000 times over. With the help of about $1-billion, by 2050, geothermal energy would top the yield of all 104 nuclear power plants in the U.S. The drawbacks include the tremors and the fact that new holes would have to be drilled after a few decades because the rocks would lose their heat. Only $51-million has been spent on the project, however, supporters believe that as Chiodos oil and gas prices increase, so will government funding.

A band on the rise, Chiodos The Department of Energy is not planning on spendsteps it up a notch adding a new eleing more than the allotted $2-million on the technology. ment of orchestral and melodic touch to Other key energy companies are not investing either but their well-known sound. Fusing together chaare still closely following the research. os and harmony they combine Craigery Owens’ When first tested, the water shot down the well violet screaming with a waltz like feel to the bands and into the crust, heated to more than 390 F. The style. The only fault to be found is a cheesy reciting water still waits in the layers of rock below. Unforof poetry on the dramatic closing song. tunately, a side effect is that the water causes the rock layers to slip and the tremors occur as a reBottom Line: Setting the bar and stepping it up again, sult. The perception that there would be no slipChiodos delivers another phenomenal album! page if the water is brought back up to the surface continues to be researched. Switzerland is not the only country participating in this project. Twentysix other countries are involved, which includes Reviewed by: Jannelle Howell Switzerland’s biggest competitor, Australia, who is two years ahead in operations. The major start date was pushed back from 2009. The project is to recommence in 2012.

Research compiled from AP sources.

long overdue collection of Ringo’s best hits, as well as some lesser known songs. Though the most under-appreciated Beatle, he stayed true to their style, except for the slightly heavier folk influence. His lyrics are fun, especially in The No-No song and Back off Boogaloo.

Bottom Line: If you are a Beatles fan, a blues fan, or if your

Reviewed by: Joe Polt

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