THE
RED & BLACK
Florida’s first high school newspaper
Hillsborough High School • 5000 N. Central Ave. • Tampa, Fla. 33603 • Volume 111, No. 1 • September 2010
@hhsredblack.com
FLEX helps freshmen connect
SPECIAL REPORT / pages 8-9
RACHEL MOWAT
A new program called FLEX has been implemented with the intent of connecting freshmen across the school through various activities. The program began with a freshmen orientation on the Saturday before school began. The main goal of FLEX is to increase graduation rates by combating bad habits early during the Class of 2014’s high school experience.
2
NEWS
@hhsredblack.com Roadblocks await students trying to abandon AP classes
September 2010
Your 24/7 source for news about your campus and community
College counselor is prepared to help By Jasmine Edwards Staff Writer As the new school year brings forth new teachers, new classes and new classmates, there is also another new addition whose presence will impact hundreds of students. Athena Dicus, the new college guidance counselor, replaces Carol Gondek, who retired. Dicus’ previous jobs include five years at Palm Harbor University High as a guidance counselor and four years as a seventh-grade science teacher at Stewart Middle School. “Working for Hillsborough High is much more different than working at Palm Harbor University High,” she said. “At my previous job as a guidance counselor I had to not only conduct schedules for my students but I was also the college guidance counselor.” Now she can focus all of her attention the students interested in scholarships, universities, colleges and technical schools. Although this is her first year being our college guidance counselor, she is not a JIMMY HERD-BOND stranger to Hillsborough. She previously interned at our school for Athena Dicus helps Farhana Panjwani and Komal Junejo in college lab IB during 2004. She coached the rowing club from 2004 to 2006. During her time here as Whether it’s a vocational/technical school, Dicus said she is excited to work as a the crew coach the team placed 19th in state community college or a university, every college guidance counselor because Hillchampionships. student should have a place to go. sborough conveys great pride and school Growing up, Dicus was one of the first “The most rewarding experience about my spirit, focuses on traditional aspects of the people in her family to go to college, which job is when students come back to see me school, and she is also eager to work with an made her a first generation student to seek and are happy about getting accepted into a especially diverse group of students. higher education. She found that the process college,” Dicus said. of turning in applications, SATs/ACTs and At her previous job as a high school counoverall choosing a place to go to after high selor, she never got the chance to work with school was very confusing and difficult to every student in the school. Now she gets her understand, which is why she decided to get chance to advocate the importance of what’s Room 111A her master’s in counseling from the University next after high school not just to one group of of South Florida. students, but to everyone here. Some of the services offered in Many students come in to their senior Senior Tori Glasgow who has already gotthe College Lab are: year not knowing what they want to do next ten a great opportunity to have a one-on-one and may feel disheartened about the very session with Dicus said, “Having the chance 1. Scholarship opportunites important question “What will you do after to meet her was a great experience, she really 2. Registering for the SAT/ACT high school?” knows what she’s talking about and makes 3. Borrowing practice workDicus said, “Everyone should have a place it easier for me to understand my upcoming books for the SAT/ACT to go after school.” opportunities as a senior!”
COLLEGE LAB
New teachers start new year This year, more than a dozen new teachers joined the faculty. This has been the longest turnout of techers in years. Karen Menard Math, IB technology Menard replaced John Caballero this year. Senior Jonathan Herd-Bond said, “She is really nice and a really good teacher. She is interactive with our class too.” Menard strives for a great year and is ecstatic to be back. -Brittany Valencic Shelby Houston Math Houston said that her first 20 days here at Hillsborough have gone really well. One aspect of her job that she really enjoys is her colleagues, which she described as “really nice and open to sharing ideas.” -Roksana Borzouei Maria Gonzalez Spanish Gonzalez has been teaching for five years as a Spanish teacher. This is her first time teaching in Hillsborough County as a Spanish teacher; she previously worked in Pinellas County. “I graduated from here, so I’m more fond of this school,” she said. -Jasmine Edwards Nita Willis Science Willis has been teaching for 19 years. She has taught different levels and grades. Previously Willis taught at Freedom, Sligh and many others. Willis said, “My mother taught at Hillsborough. It has a fine reputation in history and striving for excellence.” -Jon-Michael Knight
Meet more new teachers at www.hhsredblack.com.
NEWS
September 2010
3
Some teachers ignore sign-out policy EARLY DEPARTURES
On Sept. 15, the first early release day, Red & Black staff members counted cars in the teacher parking lot at four intervals. The findings: most teachers were gone before the actual end of the school day.
Time
Number of cars
10:50 a.m.
105
1:15 p.m.
89
2:15 p.m.
64
3:15 p.m.
45
EARLY RELEASE DAYS Sept. 29 Dec. 8 Oct. 13 Jan. 12 Oct. 27 Jan. 26 Nov. 10 Feb. 9
Feb. 23 March 23 May 11 June 10
With 13 early release days now on the school calendar, the way some teachers use that extra time is being called into question By Zack Peterson & Elizabeth Gwilt Editor in Chief & News Editor After weeks of controversy and seemingly endless changes, the school board approved a calendar this month that kept early release days on the schedule. The days are meant to provide teachers with extra planning time, but a Red & Black review indicates that more than half the faculty left campus early on the first planning day. On that day, Sept. 15, there were 105 cars in the faculty parking lot during fifth period. That number fell to 89 by 1:15, only a few minutes after students were dismissed for the day at 12:55. At 2:15, 64 vehicles remained. The number dwindled to 45 by 3:15. The teacher work day is 7:25 a.m. to 3:25 p.m. While the hourly decline might trigger thoughts of suspicion, several teachers say that the evidence can be interpreted the wrong way. Science teacher Aimee Jemmott said teachers are not abusing the situation. “Last year I know I [took] personal time during the early release days, but (Sept. 15), I was here til 4, working. The teachers can choose how to use that time.” Reading teacher Julie Sands, the school’s faculty union representative, agrees. “I left early last early release day, but I signed out and planned lesson plans at home,” she said. “It’s interesting because if teachers work from 3-7 thinking about things, researching lessons, going to trainings, spending their own money on materials and doing all this outside of school, that’s a lot more than 40 hours a week. I think we deserve the time.” Principal William Orr said he does not have a problem with early release days. “If teachers use the time efficiently it’s valuable, if they don’t, then it’s not,” he said. Orr note that teachers have the option to use comp time during non-student hours such
as early release days. Teachers can earn comp time by covering other classes, proctoring tests or performing other duties. Still, principal’s secretary Sylvia Bonilla said school policy requires teachers to sign out if they leave before the end of the work day. “But they don’t always do what they’re supposed to,” Bonilla said, noting that she stayed until 3:30 that day and only five teachers signed out of the book. The car count does not take into account that every car may not count for one teacher or the possibility that students parked in the lot instead. Early release days were added two years ago with little controversy. When they were renewed this year, the board and district leaders faced opposition from a variety of sources, including a parents’ group that attracted thousands of supporters on Facebook. Opponents argued that the days took away valuable instructional time (50-minute periods last 34 minutes) and created hardships from some parents. Despite the opposition, the board voted to continue offering early release days. After initially approving 15 of them, the district revised the total down to 13. Math teacher Dean Oppegaard said he stayed until the end of the day on Sept. 15, a practice he usually follows. “I used that time to catch up with grading and to write tests, and I always take advantage of that extra time,” Oppegaard said. As for teachers using the time for their own personal use, Oppegaard understands where they’re coming from: “It’s often difficult because we work during business hours and that extra time is useful for catching up on personal errands.” He added, “We all certainly need the extra planning time, and that’s what the early release days are for. They should be used for what they’re intended for, that’s why the union fought for them.” He proposed a simple solution to the controversy: “It’s still a regular work day, and they still need to sign out,” Oppegaard said.
4
OPINION
@hhsredblack.com
September 2010
Newcomer reflects on his transition to Hillsborough and adjusting to a new social circle
Our View
Volume 111 No. 1 Zack Peterson & Samantha Matras Editors-in-Chief Jesse Guggino Graphics Editor Eric Martin Senior Editor Elizabeth Gwilt, Katie Lutton & Christine Geshel News Editors Brittany Valencic Nick Bennett Life Editors Nick Cullen, Luke Votzke &Jake Gagne Sports Editors Savannah Howard Opinion Editor Rachel Cardona Copy Editor Jimmy Herd-Bond Photo Editor Roksana Borzouei Antonio Brown Jasmine Edwards Amanda Glenz Nico Tavella Drea Sloan Devin Lee Kristine Lee Eddie Samuels Jon-Michael Knight Staff Writers Joe Humphrey Adviser William T. Orr Jr. Principal The Red & Black belongs to the Florida Scholastic (All-Florida, 2010) and the National Scholastic (First Class, 2010) press associations. The newspaper is an open forum for student expression. Decisions about content are made by student editors. However, the paper is subject to prior review by the school’s administrative staff. The staff editorial reflects the view of student editors, and columns represent the viewpoints of their authors. The R&B welcomes letters from students, teachers and members of the Hillsborough community. Letters September be edited for brevity and clarity, and should be submitted to Room 506 or to The Red & Black, 5000 N. Central Ave., Tampa FL 33603. Advertising content is subject to approval of the editorial board. The Red & Black is printed in partnership with The Tampa Tribune. This newspaper includes content from the MCT Campus wire service. Phone: (813) 276-5620 • Fax: (813) 276-5629 e-mail: joseph.humphrey@sdhc.k12.fl.us
@hhsredblack.com
STOP THE STEREOTYPES Most people say it doesn’t seem like nine years have gone by. The anguish and distress is still here as it was when we watched that second plane crash into the World Trade Center and nearly 3,000 lives lost. Almost a decade later, we are still at war. Ground Zero is now the epicenter of recent controversy. The debate began when the location of a planned Islamic Community Center, dubbed by the media as the “Ground Zero Mosque,” was revealed to be two blocks from Ground Zero. Thousands of Americans protested that the site is insensitive to the 9/11 victim’s families, since the attackers were Islamic extremists. Muslims argue that they are being unfairly labeled as terrorists and they have a right to build the Community Center. Even more tensions rose when Gainesville pastor Terry Jones organized a public burning of the Quran, the Islamic holy book, on the ninth anniversary of 9/11 in protest of the proposed Islamic Center in New York. Jones is the epitome of what is wrong with our society. Though he has bragged that he has never read the Quran, he claims that it’s filled with satanic messages, proving him to be ignorant and extreme, an act that stands against every fundamental of tolerance that our nation’s foundations were built upon. Sophomore Imraan Farooq said it angers him when “people try to show that Muslims are hate-loving.” Farooq said that the Quran is a book of peace and that he wishes opposers would take the time to actually study it. “Read the Quran to see how I feel. Or at least research it so you know what you’re talking about,” Farooq said. Saturday should have been focused on remembering and honoring the victims, not on the actions of some lunatic pastor with a grand total of 50 followers. Sadly, Jones received much more attention than he should have while the victims of 9/11 did not. Even though the burning was cancelled, news of Jones’ event reached around the world. Because of his irrational and extremist plans, two people were killed in Afghan protests that never should have happened. The hatred doesn’t stop there, however. The dispute over the Islamic Community Center in New York hasn’t cooled down either, with supporters and protesters at each other’s throats over the controversy regarding its proximity to Ground Zero.
NICO TAVELLA
Everyone should be reminded that Muslim lives were lost in the World Trade Center attacks too. The event impacted every American, regardless of ethnicity, age, or religion. As Americans, we know better than to define a group of people based on the actions of a few. “People’s view of Islam is not good right now. But liberty in this country means that people have a right to practice their religious beliefs,” said Tom Paloumpis. “This is America, and you either practice what you preach or don’t.” Hanan Gruhonjic, a sophomore, frequently hears misconceptions about his Islamic religion. “I want to make them understand where we are coming from. I hear people say that Muslims are terrorists and these mosques are used to plan attacks.” Still, many people oppose the building of the community center, even after President Obama emphasizes that, “We’re not at war with Islam, but with terrorists.” The only way to put an end to this hatred is to learn how to be tolerant and accept differences. There will never be peace if discrimination and racial stereotypes aren’t stopped. Enough is enough. No more raging pastors, controversial mosques, or uncalled for hatred. It’s time for all American’s to put aside our differences, embrace our diversity, and stand united in the face of all cultural adversity.
OPINION
September 2010
5
Paper expands reach with new website You may be wondering why this year you weren’t greeted with a fresh, new copy of The Red & Black paper at open house, a tradition we’ve upheld here since before I was a freshman. Zack Peterson Now, as a senior Commentary and one of the editors of the paper, I helped break the tradition. No papers were handed out during the opening ceremonies, and no freshman had their noses stuck in the paper as they moved from class to class. Nobody was representing The Red and Black at a booth, attempting to “recruit” kids onto staff with a warm smile. However, that day we were uploading the website with news about Mr. D’s memorial and even material regarding the details of open house. And, by the very first day of the school year, we had already uploaded the website with stories about the first day of school and the new class size amendment. That’s because this year, over the summer, The Red & Black newspaper staff decided to take the time we would normally use to work on the “back to school issue” to reformat the idea, the design and the ultimate purpose and premise of our paper.
In this new age of digital domination, we made a conscious decision to constantly bring news to our readers through two platforms now, print and web. The site, www.hhsredblack.com is fully functional, updated almost daily and functions as more than
just a recycled version of the print edition. We are dedicated to providing, full, real, feature stories, video, photo galleries and more. We’re also on Facebook and Twitter. Every day, we’re “feeding the beast,” our unofficial man-
tra for the year. We hope you’ll check it out. Help us reach 1,500 followers on Facebook by Oct. 15 and watch Zack shave his head -- live on the website. www.facebook.com/hhsredblack
Sports should start sooner so athletes can sleep We are teenagers. We enjoy sleep, hanging out with our friends and doing the things we like to do. But when our schoolwork suffers because of school sports, this is a problem. At school we’re always encouraged to get involved, like joining clubs or doing sports. But when I went out for the school Jake Gagne soccer team, I was unaware that I Commentary would be coming home around 10:30 p.m. every time I had a game. This put my academics in serious danger, and if my academics are in danger, everything falls through.
But it’s not only getting the homework not done sometimes, because people at this school have adapted to insomnia anyways. But trying to listen to an hour long lecture about the Reformation on three hours of sleep isn’t easy. Sure my homework is done, but all my energy is expended on staying awake and I miss out on the important things. And it’s not just the soccer team that suffers. Conversing with my friends, as we teenagers do, it’s every sport. I know volleyball sits around for a long time before they actually have to play and it’s hard to do homework when you’re surrounded by all these new friends you made by joining the team. And when you’re with these friends, the time evaporates just like your sleep. And the solution is as simple as the problem. The games
begin late. We get home late. If the games, meets and matches started earlier, we would get home earlier! Instead of eating our pre-game meal, hanging around for five hours and then playing Gaither at 8 p.m., why don’t we play at 5 instead so we get home at 7:30 p.m. and get to bed at an hour that will help us succeed? Sure some of the referees and such have other jobs, but not all of them. And anything will be better than finishing my homework at 1 a.m. Almost every student-athlete would agree that there needs to be something done. We’re not going to quit what we love doing, but the programs are suffering as well. If we just pushed the times up, both the students, grades and the sports would improve tremendously.
The Red & Black
6
The
D
f fe r
i
September 2010
enc e
Hillsborough High School Yearbook 2011
When you order a 2011 Hilsborean yearbook, make the difference by customizing your copy. Choose your cover color and add your name and a picture (we will take a special photo for everyone who orders this option - it will not be your school picture). Personalization available until Nov. 19 ADD YOUR NAME AND
Red personalized $65
PHOTO
Black personalized $65
Red yearbook only $60
Black yearbook only $60 The
D i f fe r e n c e
D i f fe r e n c e First Last
The
D i f fe r e n c e
The
D i f fe r e n c e
The
First Last
Personalization is only available until Nov. 19 • Color selection is only available until Dec. 15. Hilsborean Yearbook, Hillsborough High School Include this order sheet with your payment • Make checks payable to HHS Send payment to Joe Humphrey, 5000 N. Central Avenue, Tampa FL 33603 Room 506 • Or order online at www.yearbookordercenter.com
NEWS
September 2010
7
Collins takes charge of student body By Nico Tavella Staff Writer For the past three years, Richelle Collins has served on Student Government as the president and vice president of the Class of 2011. Now, at the beginning of the 2010-2011 school year, Collins once again finds herself with the title of president. However, this year Collins is representing more than the senior class -- she’s representing all the students in her new job as student body president. Collins is responsible for organizing the many “extras” of this school- the fun, nonacademic activities that make the Hillsborough experience. She and the rest of Student Government plan and execute all the details of the Homecoming dance and festivities and put on pep rallies [See page 10 for more information about Homecoming]. “I definitely want to bring some new activities into this school,” Collins said, “I want to improve our pep rallies, lunches, dances, you name it.”
Collins, a member of the Dancerette team, has put a lot of emphasis on improving one aspect in particular: school spirit. “I really want to improve our school’s overall attitude in any way I can,” Collins said. “This is a great school and we can always work on raising its spirit.” Students can hear Collins’ voice almost every morning during announcements, but Collins says she wants to hear more students’ voices. “I’m going to listen more intently to the feedback of students. I think that will be the most effective way to function efficiently.” Many people at Hillsborough stand behind Collins and her enthusiastic ideas. “Richelle is a very trustworthy person” said teacher Zaan Gast. “She simply does what’s right.” Even students who barely know Collins have good things to say. “Richelle seems to be
“I’m going to listen more intently to student feedback. I think that will be the most effective way to function efficiently.”
Senior Exam Exemption Checklist Get a 3 or better on the FCAT.
Students need to pass the FCAT to exempt a first semester exam.
Come to school.
Don’t be absent more than five days a semester to get first and second semester exemptions.
Earn good grades.
Students need at least 3 quality points in each class in which they want to exempt the final exam. An A is 4 points, B is 3, etc.
Stay out of trouble.
Students need a good conduct record to qualify for any exemptions.
JIMMY HERD-BOND
President Richelle Collins leads a meeting during the Student Government class. Collins says she wants to incorporate students’ ideas into SGA activities.
someone who’s very approachable and willing to listen,” said senior Ryan Kelly. Collins is very passionate about being in SGA and enjoys attending fifth period in new
sponsor April Fiore’s class. “I love being in Student Government, and I’m really looking forward to this new school year.”
Attendance back in exam equation SENIORS MUST ATTEND SCHOOL TO EXEMPT
By Kristine Lee Staff Writer Seniors will get to keep their exam exemptions this year -- but they will be to come to school to preserve the perk. In first semester, students who scored at Level 3 or higher on FCAT science will continue to enjoy the exemption, but the district has added an attendance requirement. Hillsborough County will also maintain the policy that lets seniors who have good grades and clean conduct records a chance to bypass all of their second-semester exams -- but, again, attendance is again part of the equation. The district decided to eliminate all attendance-based exam exemptions during the 2009 swine flu outbreak in order to discourage infected students from coming to school. Before that, all grades could exempt up to four exams based on students’ numbers of unexcused absences. Students at Hillsborough have mixed reactions to the new exam exemption policy.
“Only being able to miss five days of school [and still earn exemptions] makes me want to come to school more,’’ said senior Nick Nadeau. Still, only seniors will be eligible to exempt -- a practice that has some underclassmen calling foul. Sophomore Becca Javier would like exemptions but has come to terms with the new policy. “It’s unfair, but it’s good at least that the seniors get them because they need it the most,” she said. Senior Chris Snook thinks that the new exam exception policy is “terrible” because it is impossible for underclassmen to exempt, and school is already difficult enough. “They [the school board] should go back to the policy from two years ago” said Snook. Principal Dr. William Orr said that underclassmen will never get exam exemptions back due to the new county policy. He supports the policy of exemptions partially based on attendance because it gives students more incentive to come to school.
8
SPECIAL REPORT
September 2010
T
By Samantha Matras • Editor in Chief
he transition from middle school to high school can be considered bumpy. Students find themselves moving from a small two-story school to a huge campus comprised of multiple buildings and three stories, from a school population near 1,000 to one approaching 2,000; from language arts and math to English I Honors and Algebra I. The problem is that the tough conversion is reflected in high schools’ dropout and graduation rates. FLEX is a new incentive-based transition program that aims to resolve that problem. Last year’s graduation rate was 81 percent, meaning that 19 percent of students either dropped out or didn’t meet graduation requirements. Studies have shown most students go off track in ninth grade. Thus, the decision for HHS to FLEX the problem.
September 2010
9
RACHEL MOWAT
On the Saturday before the first day of school, a freshmen orientation took place to get students acquainted with their new school environment and to introduce the equally new FLEX program. Students took part in several teambuilding activities to meet their classmates.
Each freshman has one binder used for all core classes. Although it is not mandatory to use them, many teachers have implemented the utilization of them into their class routines. Likewise, students are encouraged to use agendas. Every FLEX teacher has the same set of rules. “All of the FLEX teachers decided on the same discipline, same posters and plan,” said Assistant Principal Stephanie Davis. “Respect” and “responsibility” are two words students hear daily.
Freshmen ‘FLEXED out ’ School introduces new incentive-based program aimed at easing the transition to high school
Assistant Principal Stephanie Davis said that the only kind of estimated dropout rate for a school is calculated by comparing the number of students enrolled in school one year to the number the prior year. The number that is generated is called the retention rate and generally the retention rate is lowest from freshmen to sophomore year. “As a whole, we needed some kind of transition for the ninth-graders because we were losing so many,” Davis said. FLEX is essentially a transition program for rising high school students. “It’s an initiative-based program to help freshmen feel connected to the school,” Davis said. Davis said her idea for FLEX came from the Secondary Schools Redesign Initiative (SSRI), a program based on the ideas of Dr. William Daggett, president of the International Center for Leadership in Education. The program was implemented in certain Florida high schools and middle schools to help promote high achievement for students. Initially, Davis worked at Brandon High School where the SSRI was executed. “As far as Brandon, freshmen in every way led the sophomores. In attendance, pass rate, FCAT, they far surpassed the 10th graders,” Davis said.
FLEX members met over the summer to plan Davis’ ideas. “FLEX teachers and I set goals that we discussed based on data. [We want to] decrease the number of referrals, increase the graduation rate, decrease the number of Fs and build up a transition to make ninth graders feel connected to the school,” she said. English teacher Suzanne Cooks was among the team members. “[I wanted] it to work in regards to school spirit. I’m seeing that in my classrooms everyday, seeing a whole different group of freshmen evolve.” A big part of FLEX is making sure the students feel involved in the school community. English teacher Shannan Powell said, “It [FLEX] makes students more confident and secure and really feel like they’re part of the school.” Students are reacting to FLEX as well. Freshman Victoria Garcia said, “It’s basically trying to get us out there and doing our best.” Freshman Marcos Mendoza said, “It helps you fade into high school. It’s easy in middle school so you think it’s going to be easy here.” Part of the FLEX program is a set of rules and routines such as utilizing agendas and one binder that is used for the core classes. “Everyday you have to write in your planner and we have an interactive notebook. It’s helped me keep organized,” Garcia said.
In order for FLEX to be successful, a different level of dedication from teachers is required, Davis said. Teachers had to adopt similar policies and procedures, all allow for make-up days and commit to proactive parent outreach. “It takes an emotional investment from teachers and putting teachers in the right places,” Davis said. “It’s more positive for the students because of FLEX. Last year I wanted students to care about their education, but now it’s a team of people caring, it helps. At least 5-7 teachers are saying and doing the same thing,” Cooks said. Although Davis’ acquisition of the idea for FLEX derived from the SSRI program, not everything in FLEX is going to be parallel to its model. Davis said one problem they ran into at Brandon High was that proceeding the year SSRI was introduced, sophomores expected similar treatment to what they had the year before. It was essentially freshmen year all over again. Instead of heeding the old, flawed system, Davis learned from its mistakes. “We’re going to start pulling a lot of things away towards the end of the school year, nearing to 10th grade,” said Davis. By slowly taking out some of the things that are meant to help the transition at the start of the year, the shift from ninth grade to 10th grade will come more easily.
Incentives
FLEX routines
FLEX is an incentive-based program, which means students have some goal or incentive to do their best. Students who go two weeks without getting any tardies get some kind of prize, i.e. a free cookie or ice cream. If the student has yet to be late to any class at the end of four weeks, he/she gets an even bigger reward. There will also be incentives for having no Ds or Fs on report cards each quarter.
Make-up days SAMANTHA MATRAS
Top: English teacher Shannan Powell assists Emily Smith with checking her grades online Middle: Biology teacher Elizabeth Woodford checks students’ binders to make sure all assignments are completed. Bottom: John Miller checks his grades on Edline to identify any low grades that need to be made up.
There will be a total of six make-up days throughout the year: two times per quarter in the first semester, and only once a quarter during the second semester. The whole day is dedicated to making up any assignments that students earned zeros or low grades on for in each class. “[Students] get a chance to make up work to help them understand what an impact it has,” said English teacher Shannan Powell.
10
LIFE
@hhsredblack.com Check out video of our Smoothie Smackdown
September 2010
New movie takes viewers behind ‘The Facebook’
Smoothie Smackdown Smart students sip savory strawberry smoothies to stay cool in sultry sweltering heat spells. But which tantalizing treat is Tampa’s Tastiest smoothie? To find out, The Red & Black held a blind taste test in which student participants sampled strawberry-banana smoothies from three establishments. The fast-food giant McDonald’s beat out more specialized smoothie stores like Jamba Juice and Smoothie King. -Katie Lutton & Brittany Valencic
The 411
Homecoming By Amanda Glenz Staff Writer
The Smoothie Stats: Jamba Juice 19.47 cents/oz. $6.23 for a “Power” size (32 ounce) 380 calories/11.9 calories per ounce Jamba Juice received only 8 percent of the votes. Freshman Arpan Parekh described the sample as “amazing,” but he was in the minority. Most felt the smoothies had a sour and unappealing flavor. “It is disgusting and bitter” said sophomore Ben Bucholtz. Jamba Juice’s smoothie was a vibrant and saturated fuchsia pink color. It also stayed frozen and thick in the Tampa heat longer than the other smoothies. On its website, Jamba Juice boasts using “just fruit and juice” in its fruit smoothies. Jamba Juice offers more than 22 varieties of smoothies. Sophomore Ben Bucholtz taste tests his Jamba Juice smoothie.
The Smoothie Stats: Smoothie King 20.03 cents/oz. $8.01 for a Large (40 oz.) 500 calories/12.5 calories per ounce Smoothie King received 27 percent of the votes. Most tasters felt that the flavor of the smoothie was lacking. “It tastes like cardboard. Gross,” said senior Cassandra Nevarez. Several testers compared the flavor to cough medicine. Others, like senior Jonathon Schonwetter, liked the milder taste. “It’s nice and easy on the taste buds.” According to S m o o t h i e K i n g ’s website, only real fruit, natural sugar and a protein blend go into a strawberry banana smoothie. Online, Smoothie King lists over 85 “Nice and easy on the specialty smoothies taste buds,” Jonathon that the stores offer. Schonwetter said of Smoothie King.
The Smoothie Stats: McDonald’s 16.05 cents/oz $3.53 for a Large (22 oz) 385 calories/17.5 calories per ounce The McCafe smoothie received 65 percent of the votes.
ALL PHOTOS BY JIMMY HERD-BOND
Testers from A Lunch and fourth-period TV Production (pictured) preferred McDonald’s.
“[It has] a good taste: sweet, but not too sweet,” said senior Danelis Jimenez. McDonald’s was the only smoothie that contained detectable strawberry seeds. McDonald’s uses low fat yogurt in its smoothies, making the drink creamier and therefore more appealing compared to its competition. The Wild Berry smoothie is the only other smoothie McDonald’s serves besides Strawberry Banana.
Homecoming is scheduled for Saturday, Oct. 16 at the Cuban Club in Ybor City. This year’s theme is “Fire and Ice.” Homecoming is returning to the Cuban Club this year because last year’s dance floor at the Florida Aquarium was too small and the club offers a larger dance floor and two DJs. The dance’s dress code is standard: no hats, canes, sneakers, low-cut dresses or backpacks, drinks or food. Purses are allowed, but may be searched. To get into Homecoming students need to buy tickets and present their school ID. For those who want to bring a friend from another school, they need a guest form which will be available at the ticket sales. Ticket sales will begin Oct. 4 and end on Oct. 15. They will sell for $35 the first week, raise to $45 the second week and go up to $50 the last week of sales. Some students are surprised by the higher prices of the tickets. “I thought we were in a recession!” said sophomore Alex Gonzalez. These highly priced tickets make one wonder where the money actually goes. According to April Fiore, the SGA sponsor, most of the money covers the dance expenses. The rest of it goes to SGA who gives it to school activities like the Teacher Appreciation, the senior dinner, etc. Despite the expenses of going to Homecoming, sophomore Kayla Brock said it’s worth it. Homecoming “looks like it’s going to be fun,” she said.
LIFE
September 2010
11
‘This is the soundtrack to our lives...’ By Devin Lee Staff Writer
We asked five students about some of their favorite songs. Students named songs they listened to before school, while doing homework, while exercising and on the weekends. The poll turned up songs by local bands and superstars alike, and spotlighted what is really heard inside the headphones of students. Before School
Homework
Exer Exercising
Weekend
Laura Beth Higgins
The Handshake By: MGMT
Moth’s Wings By: Passion Pit
Like a G6 By: Far East Movement veme
The Compromise By: The Format
Chandler Maass
Jammin By: Bob Marley
Pawn Shop By: Sublimee
Coachella 8 By: DJ AM
M Mr. Carter By:: Li Lil’ Wayne
Eva Hall
Hide & Seek By: Imogen Heap
Foundations By: Kate Nash
Eye of the Tiger By: Survivor
Hollywood oll
Danny Arnone
Summertime By: The White Kids
Inaudible Melodies By: Jack Johnson
W Where the Cash At? By: Lil’ Wayne
When We Go Out By: The White Kids
Roche Woodard
Miss Me By: Drake + Lil’ Wayne
Does He Do It By: Trey Songz
Mixtape (1000g) 00g) By: Jeezy
Blowin Money Fast By: Rick Ross
STICK ATTACK by Jesse Guggino
DRAWBRIDGE DILEMMA by Luke Votzke
By: Marina and the Diamonds By
12
LIFE
September 2010
Trendspotting takes Tampa With mixtapes being the new musical standard, yogurt shops popping up left and right and viral YouTube videos taking the World Wide Web by storm with infatuated teens everywhere scrambling to find the next “David After Dentist,” here’s an in-depth look at all the latest fads, patterns and trendy things occuring within Tampa’s own scene. By Devin Lee Staff Writer
Here’s a look at some upcoming Tampa-area concerts at Jannus Live. October promises a great array of shows for all listeners, whatever genre you prefer.
Vampire Weekend
Being ahead of the trends is everything. The trendsetting window of opportunity is always shrinking, and there is nothing worse than being “late” on a trend. As harsh as it may sound, bandwagoners are looked upon as the scum of the earth by the true trendsetter, the laughng stock of “hipsters” everywhere. With this in mind, this column will expose the up-and-coming trends that are taking hold of HHS and Tampa’s teenage scene as a whole. > Viral Videos are coming into their own as a form
of mainstream entertainment. The success of YouTube videos featuring Antoine Dodson (“Hide your kids, hide your wife…”), the Double Rainbow Guy and the dancing kid getting hit by an ice cream truck and TV shows like Comedy Central’s Tosh.0 demonstrate that this trend is here to stay. The race across the World Wide Web is on, with each Internet explorer hoping to bring tomorrow’s most outrageous viral video to our computer screens today. > The next emerging trend comes to Tampa by way of the contemporary hot-spots that are all the rage in New
York City and Miami. Gourmet Frozen Yogurt Shops have found their niche in South Tampa. Berryism and Yogurtology are two emerging “yogurt-shoppes” that sport an avant-garde look and essentially allow teens to create their own frozen yogurt sundaes. In doing so, their trendy aesthetics have proved profitable for these progressive shops. Given its fashionable origins, frozen yogurt will be coming soon to a strip mall near you. > Lastly, if any students are in involved in a currently undiscovered trend, don’t hesitate to let the HHS Trrendspotting Team know We’re in Room 506 and we will be more than happy to take credit for your newfound trend by publishing it in this paper (just like Tosh.0).
Tuesday, Oct. 12
The Flaming Lips Wednesday, Oct. 13
Young Jeezy PIN
Saturday, Oct. 23
CO RY.
ER
KB M
Sublime w/ Rome Monday, Oct. 25
YO RO-
F
Method Man and Redman Friday, Oct. 29 Tickets available at www.jannuslive.com
UNDERGROUND
L VIRA EOS VID
MAINSTREAM
In an appropriate move for a trendspotting graphic, our’s measures some of the latest, greatest fads circulating throughout Tampa. Similar to Demetri Martin’s time graphs, our panel of trendspotting experts have calculated these scores to the tenth’s place in terms of mainstream attention.
September 2010
LIFE
13
[Rappers drop lyrics with rhythm and flow] Junior Hassan Ashi flies solo, rolls smooth By Nick Bennett Life Editor Hassan Ashi, a junior at HIllsborough High, has a quick smile and an easygoing demeanor. His goals are common: get through school, hang out with friends, practice rapping every day...wait, what? Meet Hassan. His earliest memory, from when he was three years old, is of his older brother rapping for him. Several years later, his brother put on a beat and Hassan spat a few lines. From that first moment onwards, rapping (the product of what he calls “spontaneous creation”) became second nature to him. “In my mind, I’m rapping now,” Hassan says. “It’s what I do.” Hassan describes music as one of his favorite things in life. “I love the whole concept of hip-hop and music -- it’s a whole way to express yourself.” Other friends share Hassan’s interests, even encouraging him -- “when I rap with my friends, they’ll say ‘that line was tight
but you can go harder.’ They’re always trying to get me in the studio.” So what is in the mindset of a hip-hop prodigy? “I rap about anything that comes to mind -- hard luck with girls, whatever. In a way, I freestyle, but I can remember it,” Hassan says. “It’s a daily routine.” His influences have since expanded beyond his brother -- he counts Jay-Z, Lil Wayne, and Drake among his favorites -- but he still pushes Hassan to be better. “My brother will call me up and say ‘rap for me’” says Hassan. “He taught me from day one.” When Hassan begins to rap, he has a faraway look in his eyes, and yet looks totally focused. He doesn’t rap in jerky couplets but with a steady flow of words that somehow, improbably, go perfectly with each other. When a journalist took a video of Hassan free styling, students en route to classes stopped, naturally curious about the guy with the rapid-fire delivery and quick lyricism. Chances are Hassan will be attracting crowds for a long time to come.
JIMMY HERD-BOND
Francisco DeJesus and Jonathon Romano “spit” a freestyle rap during C Lunch together. The two add to the school’s unique scene with their vibrant hip-hop skills.
The Puerto Rican connection, DeJesus and Romano By Nick Bennett Life Editor Last year, senior Francisco DeJesus was playing baseball in a Puerto Rican school dedicated to that purpose – grooming future players to the pinnacle of their abilities. When Francisco arrived at Hillsborough this year, he discovered while goofing off one day another thing that came easily to him – rapping. “I came from Puerto Rico not knowing about rapping,” Francisco says. After getting stateside, he quickly found out about the
widespread hip-hop culture here – and just as quickly developed a couple of favorites: Lil Wayne and Eminem. For Francisco, hip-hop is just a fun thing to do with his friends. He’s on the school baseball team, and aspires to climb the ranks in the sport. Francisco also points to fellow senior and good friend Jonathon Romano as a better rapper that him, because he can “spit” in both Spanish and English. In Jonathon’s own words: “I’m from Bayumon, Puerto Rico. I love boxing and drag racing. I’m all about honor, loyalty, and respect. My nickname is “Plomo” or “Jon Jon,” but when I write poetry, my name is The Ghost.” Together, the duo is a force to be reckoned with when it comes to classroom hip-hop.
SAMANTHA MATRAS
Hassan Ashi, a junior, freestyle raps alongside his school work. He was originally inspired by his brother and adds a flair to everyday student life with his highly conceptual raps.
SPORTS
14
September 2010
Passion in Pointes {Helen Foe} BRITTANY VALENCIC
Helen Foe poses in the arabesque position, one of the many dance postures she’s perfected.
By Brittany Valencic Life Editor Ever since she was a little girl, sophomore Helen Foe’s life has revolved around dance. Whether she is performing a classical variation for ballet or a hard core mix for hip-hop, she loves it all. “I started dancing when I was 3,” said Foe, “and I have been dancing ever since.” Her mom enrolled her in classes when she was young, and her passion for dance stuck. The credit for her devotion to and love of dance goes to her ballet instructors. They encouraged her to pursue her love of dance. “[They] inspired me to push myself,” Foe said. At 12, Foe began competing in dance competitions all over the state. She currently has five competition dances, along with two of her own solos. Outside of competitions, Foe takes ballet, pointe, hip-hop, lyrical, contemporary, jazz and variations. She hopes to soon start taking tap and tumbling classes along with the others. “My favorite class is definitely ballet because of the strict structure and it really helps refine my techniques for dance.
Ballet really pushes me a lot too,” Foe said. She dances a total of 18 hours a week, and she wouldn’t have it any other way. She said, “Dance helps me to forget about all the drama from school, friends and boys. When I’m dancing it is just me and I like that. It’s what I want to do for the rest of my life, even if I can’t make a career out of it. It helps me release everything. I love it.” Foe’s love for dance is apparent and she hopes to continue it for the rest of her life. Her real dream is to perform on a New York stage in front of thousands of people. The plan is for Foe to keep working hard so that she can make this dream into a reality. When it comes to inspiration, Foe looks towards Kathryn Morgan, a professional dancer from New York City Ballet. Foe sees her as an idol because at age eighteen, Morgan had the lead role of Juliet in Balanchine’s Romeo and Juliet. “As I watched her dance,” says Foe, “I knew that was exactly what I wanted to be able to do.” One of the biggest obstacles Foe faces is being able to balance school and dance.
This year she has added more classes and the number of hours she dances has increased. As a result, she has had to change her study habits and has had to manage her time better. “It can get pretty stressful, having to manage both of them, especially because they are both so time consuming,” explains Foe. Still, she wouldn’t change a thing. Also, Foe was accepted into a major dance camp in New York this past summer. Dancers from all over the country auditioned and only 100 had the privilege of being accepted. The camp, lasting a total of 5 weeks, allowed Foe to work with some of the best choreographers in the country and she learned priceless combinations and critiques. Foe, being one of the few chosen, says, “It was a real honor, and it gives me the confidence that I can do anything I put my mind to.” For now, Foe plans on continuing her hectic dance schedule and challenging herself with more classes and solos. But she hopes that one day her passion will make her into a professional dancer.
SPORTS
September 2010
15
Crew changes direction with coach, schedule By Nick Cullen Sports Editor The new coach of the crew team greeted his athletes at their first August practice by telling them to call him “Coach Micha.” He thought that his name, Miroslav Jezdanov, would be a little difficult for everyone to pronounce. In the last four years, the crew team has had five different coaches. The newest coach, Jezdanov, is a experienced Serbian rower who was a world champion as a member of the Yugoslavian National Team at age 15. “Coach Micha is one of the best that the team has seen in a while,” said senior captain Justin Park. One of the most drastic adjustments has been the difference in coaching style that Jezdanov brings to the team. Coach Micha is changing up the rowing forms of many members of the team in order to help them use their energy more efficiently. The rowers spent the summer getting used to his new coaching style, but are now accustomed to it, and starting to see improvements. “We are videotaped while we row both in the boat and on the erg,” said senior Amanda George. “I’m starting to gain confidence as a rower.” The team has learned to row easily and efficiently, but the new workouts include an intense rowing schedule mixed with off-the-water training activities. So how did the Hillsborough crew team get such a talented
A SPORT WITH A RICH HISTORY IS REGAINING POPULARITY AMONG STUDENTS BY BRINGING THEM TOGETHER REGARDLESS OF AGE, CLASS OR SCHOOL
his experience and coaching style. This year, the team has put in extra time recruiting incoming freshman in order to boost the numbers on the team. Because of the high costs of rowing, having more people means having to pay less. In addition, the team will have a better chance to be strong in the future. One new recruit, freshman John Garza, is enveloped by the challenge and reward of trying something exciting for the first time. “It’s fun learning a new sport,” Garza said. As opposed to previous coaches, Misha brings an unmatched intensity to practices. Some rowers even call him the most intense coach they have ever had. Senior captain Justin Park noted how it will take some time for Coach Micha to get to know the limits of the rowers. Some members of the team are starting to feel the pressure of school and increasingly tough crew practice, but look to each other to push through the last sprint or the last 100 meters. One thing that has been emphasized more this year is HHS ROWING CLUB developing an appreciation of being on the water. Rowers Connor Rigsby and Alec Martin prepare the four-man The crew team goes out on the water three times a week boat to launch during practice for their upcoming regattas. Under and does dry land workouts the other two days. The hard work Jezdanov’s new coaching style, the rowers approach the water that the rowers put in off the water makes them that much more with a new level of intensity. eager to test their limits when they hop in the boats. “I love being on the water,” said Garza. coach? A little bit of luck. All the hard work that has been put, in is in preparation for The team publicly announced the coaching opening and they got many applications, including Coach Jezdanov’s. The the first regatta of the season scheduled to take place in a few team interviewed him, and felt that he was a great fit due to weeks: The Homecoming Regatta on Oct. 16. By Luke Votzke Sports Editor A dark silhouette shrinks as it rides into the distance. The sun is setting, and a cool breeze fills the summer air, a nice relief from the blazing Florida sun. Large urethane wheels, 77 mm to be exact, grip the concrete, turning and sliding, according to the rider’s will. Several others follow, as if in chase, gaining speed down a ramp. These riders don’t all go to the same school, same church, play in the same band, or play on the same team. They’re brought together by this sport, longboarding, and a common love for it. Longboarding is a rising sport and gaining popularity amongst the ranks of high school students. The longboard itself resembles a skateboard while riding one is more comparable to surfing. The longboard was invented by skaters, who wanted to go faster and feel like they were “street surfing” in the 1950s. Riders would imitate surfing on the original longboards when the waves were small and unsurfable. Some of the pioneers of the sport were Tom Sims, Jeff Tatum, Lonnie Toft and Willi Winkels.
Despite the virtually flat landscape of Florida, longboarding is still very alive here. Senior Trevor Dye, a casual longboarder, enjoys skating down parking garages and other slopes such as walkways. “I like longboarding because I can go fast,” said Dye. He often rides places such as the Bro Bowl in downtown Tampa, the Upper Tampa Bay Trail and any open parking garages. Another enthusiast, freshman Chandler Maass, enjoys longboarding as well. The reason he rides is the “speed and tricks.” Both ride with diverse crowds, coming from all schools in Hillsborough County. “It’s a great sport to do with friends and I really enjoy that aspect,” said Maass. Performing tricks on a longboard, formally known as “dancing,” is much different than skateboarding or any other sport. Slides are a common move where you shift your weight to make the wheels lose traction, effectively sliding. However, this is indeed a dangerous sport, as you can reach speeds of up to 30 mph, so safety gear is necessary Sun setting, they pack away their boards. Handshakes are exchanged as they prepare to leave, already anxious for the next time. This is longboarding.
16
SPORTS
@hhsredblack.com • Rowdies bring professional soccer back to the Bay area • Jesuit ends JV football team’s bid for a perfect season • And game coverage
SIDELINE WHAT’S HAPPENING IN TERRIER SPORTS
September 2010
FOOTBALL
Varsity Record: 2-2 JV Record: 2-1 Having two of the best teams in the county on the schedule for the first two games proved too difficult to overcome and resulted and losses. However, the Terriers got into stride during the third game against Chamberlain, winning 17-3.
CROSS COUNTRY
JATHINA CAMPOS
QB/WR Charles Lovett avoids the Panther Rush. The Terriers started the season 2-2.
Central Hillsborough Invitational: Boys 6th, Girls 3rd The runners look to improve on last year’s early exit at districts. Junior Katie Lutton took first place for the girls in the first meet at Al Lopez. Top seniors Fabian Woodard (pictured right), Gabe Ruiz, and Nick Valdes look to lead the boy’s team to a “first-place” finish at approaching county meets.
Lovett carries team and ball at new position By Jake Gagne Sports Editor A real team player is one who sacrifices himself for the betterment of the team. He gives something up, whether it is stepping in front of a pitch for a free jog to first or throwing themselves in front of the defense so their wide receiver can run in and score, that player ultimately improves the team. This year on the football team, that person is Charles Lovett. This season, the former first string wide receiver has been the starting quarterback, an unfamiliar position to him. “I’ve played every position except quarterback in little league before,” Lovett said. Although new to it, the senior remains confident about the season’s future. “I’m getting better,” he said. “My aim and strength are improving.” His completion percentage is about .500 and he had tossed one touchdown during the Chamberlain.
“Now we are starting to get that swagger, we are going to start winning and playing like we are from the neighborhood,” Lovett said. More than anything, the quarterback is the most unique position on the field; he’s the only one that touches the ball every play. So as the star wide receiver, it was a bit of a challenge to change roles so quickly. “I’m more of a leader now,” Lovett said. “I’m up there with the linesmen now, and I get hit a lot more. It’s so different from wide receiver.” But in the end, this was coach Earl Garcia’s call. “Coach thinks that this is the best way the team can win,” Lovett said. Though he misses playing wide receiver, Lovett is content with the enormous amount of skill that’s taken his place in his absence. “You’ve got some talented guys playing there. You have guys like Anthony Brown, Evan Jennings and Brandon Walcott stepping in.”
Fabian Woodard runs to his first sub-18 min 5k of the year LIFETOUCH
GOLF
HANNAH SEWELL
Senior Aaron Boyd (front) and teammates practice before a match.
Boys Record 4-5 Girls Record 0-2 The boys golf team has gone from win to loss and back again. Following a loss to rival Chamberlain, the team looks to bounce back against Jesuit and Gaither and sweeten its strokes for upcoming districts.
SWIMMING
Dual-Meet Record: 3-1 The swim team returns all but one of their state qualifiers this year. The early part of the season featured a loss against Jesuit/Acadamy with a big win against Armwood scoring 126 points to Armwood’s 44. JIMMY HERDBOND
Junior Kaylee Hickman serves in a big win against Blake.
RACHEL MOWAT
Junior Ellery Lennon swims butterfly at City Relays.
VOLLEYBALL
Varsity Record: 1-5 The young squad won the first game of the season again Blake, but facing a tough schedule in the early part of the season saw losses to rivals Sickles and Chamberlain.