The Red & Black, October 2010 by HHS Today

THE

RED & BLACK

Florida’s first high school newspaper

Hillsborough High School • 5000 N. Central Ave. • Tampa, Fla. 33603 • Volume 111, No. 2 • October 2010

@hhsredblack.com

I want YOU to care

Coverage of 2010 election and why it matters to you Special Report / Pages 7-10

PUBLIC DOMAIN

NEWS

R&B FACT: So far this year, 268 yearbooks have been sold. Buyers can select either a red book or a black one, and so far one color is the clear favorite. To order your yearbook, go to www.yearbookordercenter.com

October 2010

Faculty honors Marra as top teacher

By Nico Tavella Staff Writer Her average day begins with a walk to the bus ramp at 7 ‘o’’ clock in the morning to greet the students. Upon arriving to the class room, a makeshift morning show commences, complete with a rendition of the national anthem. Then studies of health, English and social studies are constructively taught. There’s a break for lunch and when the students are dismissed to other classes, then

it’s back to work. The day comes to a close at 3 with a wave goodbye and a smile as the students part for the day. All the while, she maintains a nurturing personality. This is just a typical day in the life of Sandra Marra. Starting her fourth year as a teacher at Hillsborough, Marra said she is delighted to have “the privilege of working with such great kids” in the school’s program for autistic students. Marra comes to work each day with a

JIMMY HERD-BOND

Sandra Marra works with Xavier Gardner during her fifth-period class.

positive attitude and a cheerful disposition, none of which has changed since she became Teacher of the Year. “I absolutely love the students I work with, as well as the amazing co-workers I see every day.” Marra collaborates with Johana Ramponneau in her classroom. “She is a great teacher,” Ramponneau said. “She and I work really well together and she helps me a lot whenever I’m having trouble with anything.” Marra and Ramponneau divide the lessons needed for the students, with Marra teaching health, English and social studies. “She works hard and really deserves to be Teacher of the Year,” Ramponneau said. Marra is responsible for providing valuable information that her students can’t get anywhere else. “A few of my students are blessed to be able to attend some regular classes, but I’m here to help those who aren’t as lucky,” Marra said. By spending more than half of the school day with Marra, the students absorb a great deal of information based on her instructions. One of her students, Christian Rojas, claims that “sometimes it’s a lot to learn, but Mrs. Marra is a great teacher.” When one teaches children for more than

half of the seven-hour school day, improvement and simple pleasures make learning all the more enjoyable. “Sometimes, she’ll give us treats when we get an answer right,” Rojas said. “I really like that.” Marra’s teaching methods are what gives meaning to these students’ experience. “I like this class so much,” said Hassan Farah. “The way she teaches inspires me. I like to learn because of her.” Marra also helps her students stray away from the traditional learning methods and gives them the opportunity to develop social skills through such outlets as their well-known hot chocolate stand and the group Best Buddies, which Marra sponsors. “I especially like our jobs, like being the cashier and selling people things,” said student Austin Wilson, referring to the popular kiosks run by his class. Marra claimed she’s not sure why she was selected for the coveted award, but others have their minds made up. “Everything she does for the students is helpful. She genuinely works to make these kids’ dreams come true,” Ramponneau said. Marra only nodded her head and said, “I’m amazed and grateful that everyone believes so much in me.”

Half days extended by half an hour

PERCENTAGE OF STUDENTS AT SCHOOL ON A TYPICAL DAY

By Luke Votzke Sports Editor This year, along with a shortened winter break, half days in Hillsborough County have been extended by 30 minutes. Last year, half days ended at 12:25, with lunch served after the final bell.This year half days are concluded by the final bell

at 12:55. Junior Sheena Terilus said, “I really don’t like half days because they mess up my plans and schedule.” According to Assistant Principal Quasar Givens, “There was too long of a wait between lunch and when buses came to pick the students up.”

PERCENTAGE OF STUDENTS AT SCHOOL ON A HALF DAY

October 2010

NEWS

Leaks, cracks impact 400 building By Samantha Matras & Antonio Brown Editor in Chief & Staff Writer Closed, then open, then closed again. Alumni Hall, or the 400 Building, seemed to be having some major mood swings while its notorious leaks were being repaired this month. According to Principal William Orr, the 400 Building has had leaks for more than seven years and has repeatedly been patched up, but not permanently fixed. But that has changed now. Instead of continuing to patch up the building, the system architects decided to replace the entire roof last year due to expenses. “Over the years, it would cost more to keep patching up the roof rather than replacing it all together,” Orr said. But as some believe, the roof replacement isn’t reason why the 400 building was evacuated the first time this month. “The custodians noticed cracks between the support columns and the walls,” Orr said. According to Orr, the columns support the 400 building because they hold up the walls. The columns were most likely cracked due to the constant working on top of the building while working on the roof. The district engineers were called in to make an evaluation of the cracked columns. They deemed it structurally sound and fine to have people in the building, but the building had to be evacuated to complete the report. Social studies teacher Marc de la Portilla said, “I was notified [to evacuate] the day of by e-mail,” Classes were dispersed to the auditorium, library, cafeteria and empty classrooms across campus. “Some teachers had to share classrooms,” de la Portilla said. “It disrupted the instructional flow. It was difficult, but we got it done.” Family and Consumer Science teacher Terri Smith, whose class was relocated from the 400 building to Room 136, has experienced the worst of the effects of the building problems. Smith was removed from the building a week before it was initially evacuated. “The roof initially leaked in my room for over a year,” said JIMMY HERD-BOND

Students found this sign on the door of the stairwell by the auditorium. The stairs are closed to prevent misbehavior.

KATIE LUTTON

Students walk to classes in the 400 building. The building was temporarily closed for repair work on a chronically leaky roof.

Smith. “I have been out of my room for over a month.” Smith has not been in the room since her removal but pictures from her cell phone show missing tiles and water damage. Smith is still out of her room. History teacher Steve Haines said, “I think there’s no secret that the building has been of attention for a while now.” A bucket is situated in the corner of Haines’ room. Above it are several missing ceiling tiles damaged by the leaks over the years. “I’ve been here for three years, and at one point I called it my ‘water feature,’” Haines said. With all of the moving, teachers have to work to get their classes back up to speed. History teacher Vernon Henderson is still trying to catch his classes up from the ordeal. “Everything was pushed back about two days,” Henderson said. The evacuations complicated things for many students. Junior Anubia Lewis was relocated to the Media Center for one of her classes. “It was harder to concentrate because of the

other classes that had to relocate there,” she said. Junior Jahmik McKoy faced a similar problem “We have not been working at all,” he said. Sophomore Shane Griffin was affected to a much lesser extent. “Class is run the same; however our resources are limited,” Griffin said. The building was reopened for a day, but was closed again the next day. Assistant Principal Bertha Baker said, “[When the roof] was closed for one day, the workers had to bring in supplies and no students could occupy the building when the workers were there.” The roof is going to be permanent and is almost complete. The building is worked on at night to avoid being distracting during the school day. According to Dr. Orr, the roof still needs to be waterproofed. “We have to pray for no rain,” Baker said. There is still not a projected time when the building will be completely finished.

Locked stairs lengthen student routes in main building

By Drea Sloan Staff Writer Many students have noticed that the doors to the southeast stairwell and entrance of the main building have been locked and tagged with signs that say “Emergency Exit Only.” Administrators decided to lock the doors to discourage student use of the hall next to the auditorium because

students were loitering in the lobby area at the base of the stairs. “They were doing things that shouldn’t be done,” said Principal William Orr. “[Locking the stairwell is] to prevent students from doing bad things. No one watches that side of the school to oversee the students.” The closure of the hallway has forced many students to alter their routes

between classes. “Having to go find a new staircase to use makes me late to Dr. Burgess (science) class nearly every day by at least a minute or two,” said sophomore Kaeley Starling. Despite the logistical problems caused by locking the stairwell, Orr said restricting student access to the area has turned out to be an effective solution to the student behavior issues.

October 2010

OPINION

Volume 111 No. 2 Zack Peterson & Samantha Matras Editors-in-Chief Jesse Guggino Graphics Editor Eric Martin Senior Editor Elizabeth Gwilt, Katie Lutton, Christine Geshel & Savannah Howard News Editors Brittany Valencic, Nick Bennett, Jasmine Edwards & Jon-Michael Knight Life Editors Nick Cullen, Luke Votzke & Jake Gagne Sports Editors Nico Tavella Opinion Editor Rachel Cardona Copy Editor Jimmy Herd-Bond & Drea Sloan Photo Editor Roksana Borzouei Antonio Brown Amanda Glenz Devin Lee Kristine Lee Eddie Samuels 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 October 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

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Our View

The real tragedy “This is so inconvenient.” No one can pretend to understand the you’ve ever been in a situation where you’ve How many students’ phones buzzed dur- entirety of the situation. The best thing we needed help, you should be able to rely on ing Tuesday’s lockdown with that message can do as members of the community is your community. or a similar one? As school, we’ve learned that this is an empathize – feel, understand and connect How many nodded in agreement and with the family in only a way that members easy sentiment to develop. returned the sentiment? Students have already begun to raise of a community can. Inconvenience is a funny word. It’s inA community isn’t a social behavior money, bring in cards and offer roses and convenient when you have to stay an extra experiment. It’s a safe haven for everyone sympathies to the victim’s family members. 40 minutes at school. Inconvenient when residing within it. On Facebook, groups are emerging to colyou’re late to work. And the power of a community is built lect donations of all sorts. Inconvenient when you finally get home upon the love, trust and values that people Bookkeeper Susan Nieto is coordinating and miss the first couple minutes of your place within each other. It’s a sacred bond donations from faculty and staff, with all the favorite TV show. proceeds going to a charity of the But those few moments of irfamily’s choice. “No one can pretend to understand ritation mean nothing compared The family has started a trust the entirety of the situation. The best to the tragic events that shook fund for Hunt’s grandson, Aidric. the entire Seminole Heights comBoth Hunt and her daughter acthing we can do as members of the munity this week. tively promoted the importance community is empathize.” There was a real tragedy – one of autism research. Aidric has that strikes home. Instead of inconautism. He is 5. venience, we should think about empathy. that picks people up during their time of Life in itself is a tangible concept, but the A mother lost her daughter. A child lost need. meaning of it can never fully be contained, his mother. One family with close ties to The ability of a community to operate or for that matter, understood. Hillsborough will never be the same. It’s impossible to derive how much like this under such extreme measures is Longtime Media Center assistant Su- a testament to the strength of the people influence one life can have over another, san Hunt’s daughter -- 25-year-old nurse, within it. and it is difficult to comprehend the bonds mother and HHS alumna Larsen Hunt -- was Whether you live in the Seminole that human beings share. When those conkilled in senseless act of violence. Heights area or not or whether you attend nections are broken, no one really knows During Tuesday’s lockdown, no one Hillsborough at all, this loss should have what happens. could have conceived the ramifications of just as big of an impact on your life as the How many of us can say that we’ve held the events occurring just across the street next person. life in our hands, only to have it taken away at the Hunt home. If you’ve ever set foot on Hillsborough’s so suddenly in a split second? No one could have predicted that one campus and felt the energy of the students On Tuesday, someone at our school had crabby text about staying at school an extra within it, you’re part of the community. If to experience that exact feeling. Someone 40 minutes could have produced such feel- you’ve ever walked down Central Avenue learned what it was like to lose loved one. ings of remorse. As a community, we should stand as one and waved to the ice-cream man, you’re That’s exactly how it should have felt. and embrace our fellow members whose part of the community. This isn’t just an event that heals over If you’ve ever cared for the people hearts ache. As one, we can help ease the time; it will completely warp the lives of the around you or gone out of your way to help pain. And as a community, we shouldn’t let victim’s family forever. them, you’re part of the community. And if inconvenience get in the way.

OPINION

October 2010

Students and teachers question tardy policy Prejudice divides Our View The fifth tardy gets you into detention. Skipping would result in suspension and two more tardies would throw you right into ISS for a day. Taking you out of class for being late to class appears to be a backwards approach to punishing students for tardiness. Is it not defeating the purpose? The tardy policy is meant to encourage students to get to class on time and keep them there, but its punishments ends up doing the exact opposite. An alternative consequence such as extended detention would not affect the normal class day but keep you after school; taking away your free time. It makes you give up personal time as a punishment rather than regular class time. Instead, teachers should work with students who are burdened with inconvenient schedules. As a school, we should maintain the goal of keeping as many students in class as possible

“I think the tardy policy is good punishment for kids who are always late. It’s more important to get to class than talk to your friends in those few minutes.

generations

“Tardies shouldn’t be counted for the first two weeks, so freshmen can learn to find their classes. I agree that there is an issue, but something has to be done. Victoria Garcia Freshman

Tom Paloumpis Teacher

“They should do after-school or weekend punishments. You’re late two minutes, but then you miss class for an entire day in ISS.”

“Taking someone out of class is dumb. It’s an oxymoron. I would suggest detention, but being late to class is not that big of a deal. Evan Metziere Sophomore

George Camacho Freshman

Halls should be open during lunch Students are restless as the clock counts down those last moments, stretching seconds into minutes and minutes into years. Jon-Micheal Knight For some, the Commentary bell is a breath of fresh air -- time for food and socialization. For others, like me, it marks the beginning of study hall. However you choose to use your lunch period, one should have access to the whole campus, like any other passing period. However, on my way from the courtyard to my locker, I found school leaders felt different.

I climbed the stairs at one entrance to the main building and walked down the hall, not

to retrieve my papers. After an interchange of pleas, I had reached an impasse and realized my only course of action was to obtain a hall pass. A student shouldn’t need permission to access the most widely used area of their school, so most students disregard the rule, and the hall monitor rubukes the offender, more of a disruption than the original violation. The case against this is if no one is monitoring traffic, then the hallways would be too noisy and disrupt the classes in progress. That’s why I suggest that the hall monitors only apprehend students who are causing a disturbance. We would appreciate the freedom to use the bathrooms without first getting written permission.

That’s why I suggest that the hall monitors only apprehend students who are causing a disturbance.” paying any particular attention to one thing or another. “Excuse me…” A woman stood ahead of me, blocking my path with her arms outstretched as if she were some obstacle preventing the influx of students into the halls, “Do you have a pass?” Of course, I explained that this week I had a fair amount of unfinished schoolwork and I was heading to my locker just 20 feet away

Popular music blaring through headphones from the iPod in one hand; texting promiscuous comments to “a friend” with the phone in the other hand. Nico Tavella Commentary There’s no consideration of consequences; everything is done in the moment. This is what comes to mind when one utters the word “teenager” around the average adult. They couldn’t be more wrong. Far from being the sex-addicted danger-seekers that adults see, teenagers are competent of what they’re doing and usually make good decisions. Aside from the occasional slip up with a curfew or a relationship gone wrong, teens as a whole are not as dumb as they are portrayed to be. As a teenager, I see firsthand what the real average teenager goes through every single day. It’s absolutely nothing like the ridiculous exaggerations that are accepted. Every teenager is not a member of a gang or participant in drug trafficking. If this is what adults are searching for, they should take a peek at those volatile teens who are the true participants of these dangerous actions. Unfortunately, every new dilemma issue discussed on TV leaves kids expecting interrogations. If adults would stop and erase their current stigmas associated with teens, they would see that teenagers are eager and energetic. It’s these qualities that are overlooked by most adults despite the incredible potential they contain. Rather than labeling teenagers as hyperactive, emotional nutcases, adults should look at the positive qualities of us and help those qualities prosper.

NEWS

October 2010

New clubs rally students who share common interests CARE CARE is a new club that has formed this year. The acronym stands for “Club for Animal Respect and Education.” Junior Alexandra Lochridge is the co-president along with Junior Puja Shah. “The purpose of this club is to educate students about animal rights, animal cruelty and vegetarianism,” said Lochridge. The club works with local public organizations to volunteer and support its message. “We are planning on making connections with Big Cat Rescue and Florida Voices for Animals,” Shah said. The club aims to become an active part of “no-kill” shelters and strive to make an impact in the local animal community. Those who support the cause will be able to gain service hours by volunteering. The members want to change the way that people think and influence their consideration of vegetarianism for the sake of animals. “We want to spread animal rights locally,” said junior treasurer Sierra Starke. CARE aims to bring animal rights to the knowledge and support to campus. -Eric Martin

KOSEF KOSEF is a new club that is ready to make a difference in the cleanliness of the school. KOSEF stands for “Keeping Our School Eco-Friendly,” which is also their mission statement. KOSEF’s first plan was to take action against garbage and filth by setting up recycling bins in each classroom. President Suvetha Ravichandran, remembers how she and her co-president came up with the idea to create KOSEF, “We were in Digenova’s JA last year and we were thinking how much paper we throw away each day.” On Sep. 28, recycling bins were placed in every classroom

around campus. Each recycling bin in classrooms can hold 16 gallons and allow all single stream items. For the future of KOSEF, Ravichandran said, “We want to have our recycling system perfected; we were trying to do other things like an eco-shop that sells folders, binders and et cetera.” -Chrissy Geshel

Dungeons and Dragons Club On Oct. 26, the Dungeons and Dragons club was formed by juniors Ryley Valenti and Garrett Luzadder. Luzadder explains that the idea for the club originated “as a joke,” but soon gained popularity. The purpose of this club is “to play D&D,” but also for “to gather together with people who have the same interest,” said JIMMY HERD-BOND Luzadder. The club goal is “to have fun and give people a place Students have easier access to recycling bins due to KOSEF to feel accepted.” The most basic function of Dungeons and Dragons is first a Gay-Straight Alliance club, and many schools in Hillsborough the creation of a character by the players, who then converse county already have one. with the Dungeon Masters (DMs for short). The DMs then proGSA was formed with the purpose of creating a “more access the information and tell the players what will happen. cepting environment for everyone, despite their sexuality or Luzadder suggests that anyone with even the smallest gender identity,” clarifies Seales. inclination to join should do so. “I started out thinking it was the Jasmine has in mind two goals for GSA, “to make school nerdiest thing ever but I had a friend convince me to try it… and safe for everybody,” and to “promote awareness and prevent I liked it and have been doing it ever since.” harassment and violence,”such as the observance of the recent -Rachel Cardona gay suicides by wearing purple on Oct. 20. Gay Straight Alliance Club Sealers offers this advice: “There have been may gay teens The Gay-Straight Alliance club is another new club from who have committed suicide because of bullying. If you are a Hillsborough. This club was formed as a coalition between gay, lesbian, or straight teenager who is contemplating suicide, homosexuals and heterosexuals to promote awareness. remember that there is hope. Call (800) SUICIDE or the Trevor Jasmine Seales, the sophomore founder of GSA, explains Hotline: 866-4UTREVOR.” -Rachel Cardona that GSA was started due to the large influx of applications for

District orders up chef for cafeteria duties By Katie Lutton News Editor The cafeteria staff, swept the floors and prepared for breakfast the next day, awaiting the arrival of new district chef, Ben Guggenmos. “Chef Ben,” as school student nutrition manager Judy Harrison reminded her staff, was back at the school to work with the employees to make school meals more nutritious. “I want to make food more appealing and healthy at the same time, while giving kids what they want,” said the chef, who has been

on the job for a little more than a month. During a previous visit to the school, Guggenmos introduced several recipe tweaks to Hillsborough’s kitchen. Harrison reported that the now- healthier dishes have been popular with teachers and students alike. This time, Harrison and Guggenmos met in the teacher’s cafeteria and discussed other recipe changes as well as potential general improvements to the kitchen’s cooking process. Guggenmos, whose father was a master

chef, got a job in a restaurant as soon as he was old enough to work, and has been cooking for restaurants and hotels for fifteen years. “I’ve worked every position in the front and back of the house.” About three years ago, Guggenmos became interested in the nutritional aspect of cooking. He went back to school at Johnson and Wales University and earned a degree in culinary nutrition. He applied for a job with the district before the position of district chef existed. “I interviewed for a different positions, but they saw

a better use for my talents,” he said. The district hired Guggenmos as a part of a larger plan to make lunches healthier. Hillsborough County School Nutrition Association now uses Big Daddy pizza, which uses whole grains and turkey pepperoni. Starting in January, new nutritional guidelines concerning whole grains will be enforced countywide. Students can look forward to tasting new and healthier versions of sweet and sour pork, turkey pot pie, Asian rice bowls and Guggenmos’s personal favorite, chili.

October 2010

ELECTION 2010

taxes, school zoning and other issues. Through this program, Fox hopes to reach out to more potential voters. “I want teens to realize that voting is our most important right. So many people died fighting for this privilege. When you enter that voting booth everyone becomes equal; you suddenly have the same power as the president. This is your only opportunity to change something you don’t like in a peaceful way. If you don’t step up and claim this responsibility, then someone else will just decide for you.” At Hillsborough, students old enough to move are mixed

Benavides said that although politics are important to him, most teens don’t feel the same way. “Teens just don’t have an interest in politics,” he said. “They’re not up to date on what is going on. Teenagers don’t watch the news, and I admit that I don’t either,” he said. Benavides suggests that parents talk to their kids about politics. “[Teens] need to know voting is a big deal, and we need to take advantage of this right or else people will decide for us.” Bridgett Hickerson doesn’t agree, “Kids don’t know what’s going on, but no amount of talking will change that. It’s something they have to realize themselves,” said the HHS senior. “Teens are more interested in getting tattoos and cigarettes than being involved in politics,” she said. While some teens actively choose not to vote, others simply don’t know enough about the process. “I probably won’t vote. I don’t know anything about the governor’s election—I don’t even know who is running or the difference between Democrats and Republicans,” said senior Ileana Alvarado. “The election is not my priority right now; I’m focusing on college at the moment.” Dominic Bromley acknowledges that “teens feel like their vote doesn’t count, and it’s not the cool thing to do.” But the senior adds, “It’s up to us. We are the new generation; the government doesn’t make all the decisions. We are the future and we need to start getting involved.” Student Government Association sponsor April Fiore has noticed the difference in kids who know politics and those who choose not to participate. “I have seen a good mix of students who are aware and students that don’t have a clue,” Fiore said. Fiore said that plans for a mock election are underway. “The more students are exposed to voting being a free choice, the better,” she said.

Majority of teen voters lack enthusiasm Less than 1 in 5 young voters are expected to cast ballots this year

By Elizabeth Gwilt News Editor With the 2010 midterm elections in just a few days, many 18 year olds will have the opportunity to practice their right to vote for the first time. However, studies show that few teens will choose to participate. According to civicyouth.org, a research site that focuses on civic engagement in politics, the 2006 election depicted a 28 percent difference between youth and adult voter turnout on a national level. As for Florida, only 19 percent of 18-29 year-olds voted in the 2006 midterms, while 50 percent of voters over the age of 30 partook in the election. Bobby Fox, the executive director of Kids Voting Tampa Bay, hopes to change those statistics. Fox’s organization visits Tampa schools to educate students about democracy through classroom activities and mock elections. “KVTB was established to foster voting habits in kids. If you vote once, you’re more likely to vote again,” he said. “We reach out to all students, kindergarten to 12th grade.” Fox said turnout of teens and young adults is not as high as it should be. “Municipal elections in the spring are lucky to get a 10 percent turnout among teens,” he said. “Statistically, the young adult turnout for presidential elections is higher and as elections become more local you see a decrease in participation, which I think that is contrary to how it should be,” Fox said. He pointed out that local government has a bigger impact on people’s daily lives since it decides on roads,

“I think most teens find politics boring, but it’s important to vote.” --Devante Robinson, 12

“This is your only opportunity to change something you don’t like in a peaceful way. If you don’t step up and claim this responsibility, then someone else will just decide for you.” on their plans for the election. Senior Marianne Date-Fabic has already voted in this year’s election, although she notes that not many of her peers did the same. “I know people who are 18 and have their license, but they don’t know how to register,” DateFabic said. “I feel that teens should vote only if they are involved and informed,” she said. “A person’s decision should not be based on commercials. You need to know how the system works for your vote to be effective.” Based on KVTB’s past mock elections, the majority of students tend to be Democrats. Senior Victor Benavides, however, has yet to choose a political party.

“I feel like [teens] should be involved if they are informed.” --Marianne Date-Fabic, 12

“We are the future; we can make the decisions.” --Dominic Bromley, 12

“Teens are more intersted in getting tattoos and cigarettes [than voting].” -- Bridgett Hickerson, 12

October 2010

Immigration

ELECTION 2010

Candidates r ace to the Capitol Let’s face it,

Alex Sink plans to get rid of Florida’s immigration problems. She wants to make sure that Florida borders are secure and no one gets cheated. According to her website, she plans to make sure that companies who hire illegal immigrants knowingly are punished and other companies are prevented from doing so. She, like her opponent, has a plan to make Florida companies use an automatic system that will make employers find out if their employees are legal.

The world of politics is sometimes too complex and, quite frankly, too boring to pique the interest of the average teenager. Elections and government policies are not the most riveting topics, but they are still important and directly affect us. We believe that the more you are informed, the more you can participate. Here’s how the two major candidates for governor stack up on a few key issues facing Florida.

October 2010

Immigration

Immigration is an important subject for both candidates. According to rickscottforflorida.com, Rick Scott believes that securing America’s borders is an act that must be followed through. He supports measures like the one that Arizona took in an attempt to make sure that their borders were secure. He plans to make all Florida businesses use the E-Verify system to make sure that their employees are legal citizens of the United States.

-Roksana Borzouei, Elizabeth Gwilt, Savannah Howard

Education

Sink’s education plan is focused on “building a high-quality and accountable education system for tomorrow’s workforce.” The extensive plan puts the focus on building a strong foundation for students’ education from as early as Pre-K, by putting a teacher with a bachelor degree in every Pre-K class. She plans to create a “fair performance-based system” that will determine teacher compensation. Sink also plans to increase parent and neighborhood involvement in school systems, by transforming schools into after-hours community centers delivering after-school programs, parenting classes, adult GED, financial literacy, job skills and wellness programs. Alex Sink is spearheading the statewide “Florida Fit” campaign, “to promote healthier student lifestyles, revamp school menus/snacks and improve school fitness programs” to battle the rampant rise of child obesity. Other aspects of Sink’s plan include improving technology in schools and curtailing student failure and subsequent dropping out. [To read more about the Class Size Amendment, see page 10]

Environment Sink wishes to make the environment a top priority in Florida’s government. According to Sink’s website, her primary goals regarding the environment are: protecting oceans and coastlines, preserving land, restoring the Everglades and protecting water. She recognizes that Florida’s coastal waters are a primary resource for the economy and plans to ban offshore drilling and develop a “comprehensive ocean management plan” that will aim to maintain and protect oceans, ecosystems and habitats.

Alex Sink

Rick Scott

Education

The key ingredients in Scott’s education plan include “measuring and improving student readiness, expanding school choice, virtual and online education, mentoring programs, and preparing a new workforce.” Scott plans to use the education policy in Florida to create modern jobs for Floridians to make it competitively effect. He said that in order for the Florida economy to improve and be effectively competitive, we must have “an educated workforce.” One main point in his plan is to increase school choice for parents “instead of handing over the choice to politicians and bureaucrats.” Scott plans to reward teachers who have been lauded with excellence as an incentive to raise the bar of education in Florida. His plan is centered around an education framework that puts the importance on students, allowing for a plan specific to the needs of each student and family. [To read more about the Class Size Amendment, see page 10]

Environment

VS.

According to his website, Scott’s main concerns about the environment are the Everglades and conserving Florida’s natural resources. Scott’s campaign literature is light on environmental specifics, but he said Florida’s beaches and parks account for a large part of the state’s tourism industry.

Economic Plan

Sink, the Democratic candidate, focuses on reviving, remaking and reforming Florida’s economy. She calls it a “business plan to revitalize our economy and put Floridians back to work.” Sink received the “Champions of Business” award from the Associated Industries of Florida, showing her abilities as a business leader to implement her economic plan. Sink also has business experience, like her opponent, as she was Chief Financial Officer for the state of Florida and served as treasurer on the Florida State Board of Administration. Sink focuses on stabilizing and expanding small businesses as a way to generate new jobs, while creating incentives to keep investments in the state. She further advocates small business ventures, pushing for tax credits as they create new jobs. Long term goals include expanding research & development activities “through tax credits for in-state investment,” a program that exists in 31 other states, but not Florida. She also demands fiscal responsibility from the government, holding them accountable for their spending.

Scott summarizes his economic plan in his slogan: “Seven Steps, 700,000 Jobs, Seven Years,” with the goal of saving Florida taxpayers $7 billion dollars a year. As a conservative outsider, his goal is to “make Florida the job creation model for the nation,” claiming that “Florida’s economy should be the envy of the nation.” Scott, who was previously CEO of the nation’s largest health care chain, Columbia/HCA, included in his economic plan that if implemented, his plan will “get our fiscal house in order, balance the budget and create long-term, good-paying jobs.” The main focuses of his plan are accountability budgeting through transparent, outcome-based budgets. Scott intends to reduce government spending, focus on job growth and its retention, and reduce property taxes throughout a seven-year span, which Scott hopes to be in office. Rick Scott was CEO of Columbia/HCA when he was caught in a massive Medicare fraud scheme that where his company as charged with billing Medicare and Medicaid with unnecessary and tests and then collected the reimbursements.

Graphics by Jesse Guggino

ELECTION 2010

October 2010

Voters can decide on whether to adjust class size By Savannah Howard Opinion Editor Education is always a hot topic in Florida, and, looking at the voting ballot for 2010, nothing as changed. In particular, a hot-button subject for this election is the class size amendment. As of the start of the 2010-11 school year, classes in grade 9-12 were limited to 25 students per class. When voters step to voting booths on Nov. 2, they need to be aware of several things regarding Class Size Amendment 8. If this amendment passes, it could have multiple affects on Florida schools, both positive and negative. Voters who approve Amendment 8 will remove the “hard cap” of 25 per class and allow schools to instead utilize averages, providing some flexibility. Some arguments raised for this amendment are that it has the ability to give students more class choices. According to an article on TBO.com, this statement could be true or false. The strict cap could prevent students from being placed in a class with a small teacher-student ratio but, it could also allow flexibility in student assignment and raise the elective enrollment. If this amendment passes, it could also save Florida billions of dollars for education. According to TBO.com, this amendment could save Florida between $350 million and $1 billion a year, which could be reinvested

into teacher salary, training and new class materials. However, this amount could be exaggerated, counties that have already implemented this policy are doing it with current resources and there is no guarantee that the county would save this money. So far this year, this policy has effected Hillsborough in many ways. Assistant Principal Stephanie Davis said, “It’s been very difficult on the guidance counselors and some students had to take repeating classes online instead of face to face. It also prevented some elective schedule changes due to most academic classes being locked down.” Many students believe that this size restraint could have a positive effect on HHS. Sophomore Candid Cruz said, “I see a mainly positive effects. “Teachers have less students, therefore less stress, which makes it easier for us students to learn.” Freshman Dasia Darns said, “I see a difference, there’s less people for teachers to keep track of, so they’re in better moods.” Davis also said the amendment is having a positive effect, she said “There’s no exception, teachers [in core academic subjects] have 25 students or less no matter what.” Other students have mixed views. Sophomore Kelsey Leggett said, “I like the amendment because it gives you more one on one time with teachers but, on the other hand it doesn’t let students get the classes they want

to have.” Freshman Gabi Hernandez said, “I don’t really see a difference in the behavior of my classmates.” Another student, Jenna Karas, has been personally effected by this amendment. Karas said, “I was supposed to be in yearbook this year but I was made a student assistant for that class. I finally realized that even though

I was going to be able to help, it just wasn’t the same.” However, many students were shuffled around due to the cap and unfortunately, were placed in classes they didn’t desire. Junior Megan Jones said “Nobody gets the classes that they want! In the end that hurts our grades because if we’re in a class we don’t want, we’re not going to do well in them.”

By Roksana Borzouei Staff Writer A trio of major candidates are seeking Florida’s open seat in the U.S. Senate. Gov. Charlie Crist, who is running without party affiliation, says on his website he is ready to stop petty party differences and create smart solutions to the problems affecting Florida. Crist advocates a progressive educational system based on stu-

dent-teacher accountability, which will also provide choice for families regardless of economic background. Crist expressed on his website that he “is personally pro-life, but does not want to impose his will on his fellow Floridians.” The governor is in favor of congressional reform for Immigration “that provides an earned path to citizenship” for the 14 million illegal immigrants. Marco Rubio, the Republi-

can candidate, is an avid supporter of the Tea Party movement. Rubio is also pro-life and an advocate of the Arizona Immigration law, explaining on his website that, “the federal government is wrong to step in as Arizona rolls out stricter standards for localized immigration control.” Democrat Kendrick Meek, a U.S. representative from Miami, said such such a law for Florida would be impractical and

“firmly opposes the recent Arizona immigration law and would fight against any attempt to bring a similar measure to Florida.” Meek was behind the initiative in 2002 to reduce class sizes, an issue that has been raised once again. Meek also opposes “taxpayer-funded vouchers to pay for private school tuition for selected students.” Polls show Rubio leading at 43 percent, with Crist at 32 percent and Meek at 20 percent.

NICO TAVELLA

Candidates battle for rare open seat in U.S. Senate

Charlie Crist

Kendrick Meek

Marco Rubio

@hhsredblack.com

October 2010

LIFE

“THRILLER” NOT INCLUDED -- A HALLOWEEN PLAYLIST

DIY Halloween By Kristine Lee Staff Writer Aren’t you tired of seeing the same old “typical” Halloween costumes year after year? Then create your own unique costume! There are many different costume ideas that you can create with things from your house, neighbor’s house, or even the local thrift store. As kids get older more of them decide to create their own costumes. Do it yourself costumes ideas may vary anywhere from being an old granny to a petrifying zombie. How to make a jellyﬁsh: Do it yourself costumes can be easy to create; you just need all the right stuff. One costume idea is that you could dress up a sea creature. For example, you could be a jellyfish. To be a jellyfish all you need is a clear bubble-shaped umbrella, some streamers, tape, white tissue paper, plain colored clothes and some white beads, if you want to make it

Scuba Diver

Sophomore Nick Winston models the scuba diver costume. This DIY costume is made from two two-liter soda bottles, string, construction paper, a scuba mask, a snorkel. All you need to buy are the bottles (to serve as the “air tanks”).

look like there are pearls hanging on it. Cost of jelly ﬁsh: To create the jelly fish the price isn’t the $40 you would spend at the Halloween store on a cheap costume. It’s only about $20 for all of the materials. The umbrella can be found at Target for $16.99. Streamers are available at most stores and the clothes can be found in your closet or from one of your neighbors. There is no need to go out and buy more clothes. Also someone in your neighborhood will have white beads from Gasparilla. How long will it take? The jellyfish will only take you couple minutes. The thing that will take you the longest

is buying the umbrella and streamer but after that your basically done. Then on Halloween, tape everything together and go out and have fun! ----How to make a scuba diver: To fulfill the scuba diver outfit, you will need a pair of two-liter soda bottles, string, some construction paper, a scuba mask and a snorkel. Stuff the construction paper in the two liter bottles then tie the string around the top of the soda bottles. Then wrap it around your arms then back to the bottle and tie it in a knot.

then save the bottles. That’s all you basically need to buy for this costume. How long will it take? The scuba outfit will take you a little longer than it would if you were creating the jellyfish. You have to get the soda, drink it, stuff the bottles with the construction paper, tie them around you, find a mask and snorkel, then you are done! The last step... Enjoy your friends’ looks when you show u p a s a jellyfish or scuba diver!

Cost for scuba diver: For the scuba diver go to the store and get two two-liter soda bottles of your favorite soda. Have some friends over and drink the soda

JellyfISH

Freshman Courtney Melendi models the jellyfish costume. This DIY costume is made from a clear umbrella and red and white streamers. It’s also cheap, only $20 after buying everything. PHOTOS BY JIMMY HERD-BOND

LIFE

October 2010

Homecoming 2010

A night to remember

JIMMY HERD-BOND

Clockwise from top left: Seniors Coley Stelter and Jamie Perez sharing a moment. | Seniors Antonio Puentes, Danielle Rinehart, Michael Dam, Bao’Khuyen Nguyen and Ra’shaad Hernandez getting down dancing. | Senior Dulce Benitez and juniors Cynthia Liz-Perez and Alisha Espinosa show off their stylish dresses. | Sophomores Emma Mercadante and Rachel McKay laugh to the beat. | Seniors Tyre Morrison and Hollie Driscoll share their first dance as Homecoming King and Queen (Photo courtesy of Driscoll) | Sophomores Victora Russo, Alec Clark, Nick Cooper, Justin Zeger, Sarah Ravitz and Junior Antonio Brooks pumping their fists to the beat.

“Before Homecoming, I got my nails done, went shopping for shoes and accessories. For my first year ever, homecoming was awesome!” - Kendal Lee, freshmen

I got my suit from the dry cleaners and of course fixed my fro before homecoming. This homecoming was very eventful and winning homecoming court as Prince was the icing on the cake!” Antonio Brooks, junior

Since homecoming was at the Cuban Club I spent my evening hanging out and dining in Ybor. SGA did a great job with the decorations, but the music could have been better.” - Jeremy Agrinzonis, junior

LIFE

October 2010

Concert Calendar

Clash of the Cubans

Oct. 30 The Script at Jannus Landing 7 p.m. November

h, the Cuban sandwich. First served in the Cuban communities of Ybor City more than 100 years ago, the delicious layering of a Cuban bread has become Tampa’s signature sandwich. Local mom-and-pop restaurants and large franchises claim to serve the best one, but we wanted to find Tampa’s Tastiest. We staged a blind taste test and had students sample Cuban sandwiches from The Caribbean Point, The Bearss Sandwich Shop and Publix Supermarket. -Katie Lutton

The concert calendar is back, offering a full variety of shows this month.

La Roux

The Ritz in Ybor

7 p.m.

Publix (A)- $6.39 Though the priciest, Publix Deli’s Cuban sandwich was

largest in size. The sandwich from Publix Deli was not made with Cuban bread, but a French baguette looking loaf. Tasters like Michael Daws noticed the difference. “[It has] crisp bread, [but] needs more meat,” said the senior. Junior Demondre Daniels deemed the sandwich, “Good all around … perfect and delicious.” Three out of every five students preferred the taste of Publix’s offering over the other sandwiches.

November

Shinedown

Performing Arts Center

7 p.m.

Novem-

Nov. 5 Anberlin ft. Crash Kings & Civil Twilight at Jannus Landing 7 p.m.

20% 60%

20%

The Bearss Sandwich Shop (B)- $5.05

This small establishment just south of Bearss served up an aromatic sandwich. Senior Eric Bass said “It didn’t look as good as Sandwich A (the sandwich from Publix).” But, what it lacked in aesthetic appeal, it made up in flavor.”

GRAPHIC DESIGN BY JESSE GUGGINO

Wiz Khalifa

The Ritz in Ybor

Nov. 7 Robyn at The Ritz in Ybor 7 p.m.

- Amanda Glenz

The Caribbean Point (C) – $3.99 On Hillsborough and Lee avenues, The Caribbean Point is just around the corner from campus, but many students are unaware of the Latin food joint. The testers who were partial to the Caribbean Point’s sandwich enthusiastically extolled the virtues of the Cuban. “It tastes like it’s actually from Cuba!” said senior Jen West.

Publix Bearss Caribbean Point

Online Check out our taste test video. Also -- know of a better sandwich? Comment at www.hhsredblack.com

Trendspotting: the hand hug By Devin Lee Staff Writer Trendspotting is back, shedding some light on an even more underground topic than we brought to you last month. Handhugs, the latest and greatest way to embrace your fellow brethren, have yet to gain mainstream acceptance ... “I’ll hand hug to that my brotha!” • The era of the fist bump is over, and high fives have been around so long they’re practically “old school.” The time has come for a new hand-to-hand greeting to take the spotlight. Cue the hand-

hug. The hand-hug is a less aggressive, more tender embrace to be enjoyed between friends. It is not intended to take the place of the formal handshake, but it should be the go-to greeting for any other occasion. • You should be asking yourself, “How do I execute a hand-hug? I need to master the technique and teach my friends so that I can claim the hand-hug as my own, and take credit for its popularity!” Luckily, the choreography of the hand-hug is simple. Both handhuggers extend and gently place their right hands together. At the

end of this first step it should look like the two huggers are comparing hand sizes. Next, each person wraps their thumb around the side of their partner’s hand, while giving a light squeeze. Both hand-huggers should then dismount, smiling and satisfied. The timing of the hand-hug is the only tricky part. Over time, the problem of a premature dismount can be resolved with practice (the more you do it, the better you get at it). But once it has been mastered by the masses, there’s no telling how many hands will be hugged.

JIMMY HERD-BOND

The perfect hand hug.

SPORTS

October 2010

Lack of divers cause scores to nose dive By Luke Votzke Sports Editor

The total salary of all the free agents is $46.6 million , which is 63 precent of the Rays’ total salary of $73.7 million. However, those nine players make up only 32 percent of the roster. This outspending caused the Rays to practically dig their own grave. ILLUSTRATION BY DREA SLOAN AND DOMINIC BROMLEY

Numbers for 2011 Rays look dismal By Jake Gagne Sports Editor False predictions are a heartbreaking event and leave people disappointed, as represented in the Rays’ premature departure in the American League Division Series. However, for the 2011 season, it seems we don’t have to worry about the disappointment or frustration of our immense expectations at the beginning of the year. Due to some pivotal changes in the roster and the organization, the Rays’ 2010-2011 season looks similar to their earlier years of sitting behind the Red Sox and the Yankees without a chance to succeed in the toughest division in baseball. First off, the Rays outspent themselves this year and last at an organization salary of around $63 million in 2009 and about $70 million in 2010, only to be lassoed by the Rangers early. In an interview with Andy Freed and Dave Wills on the 620-AM morning show, Rays’ principal owner Stuart Sternberg stated that because of this extravagance, next season will be extremely different financially. The estimated salary for 2011 is some-

where below $60 million and it’s highly likely that it will be in the lower 50s. Already with the 19th (out of 30) lowest salary in the MLB, they’re expected to drop to somewhere around 25th-27th. Rays fan Edwin Velez couldn’t predict how this will affect the team, but he remains hopeful. “We’ve always been up and down throughout the season and that may make it worse,” said the freshman. “It seems like they will drop, but it all depends on how they play.” Since their birth, they have been to the playoffs twice. The first time was in 2008 and was truly a fantastic story of heart and determined passion. On the other occasion, the total salary of the team was the highest in the team’s history of 12 years, which was not a coincidence. Events like the 2008 Rays’ season don’t happen very often. Money seems to have a very large affect on this sort of thing, evident in the fact that teams like the Yankees ($207 million) and Phillies ($143 million) are always contenders. And this is such a large issue because of the enormous amount of free agency this year. You need money to sign players and as

previously stated that is diminishing. Some free agents are Carlos Pena, Carl Crawford, Brad Hawpe, and Rafael Soriano, who are our four top-paid players. Together they total $34.9 million dollars in salary, more than half of next year’s predicted sum. Sophomore Andy Paloumpis feels that this will send the team downhill. “I really don’t think they’ll make the playoffs next year. They’ve laid a good foundation, but those players are the only reason we were in the playoffs that long. We are losing some great hitters.” Though there’s a bit of uncertainty where Pena will go because of his want to stay with the Rays and he ended last season with a .196 batting average and only 28 home runs, it’s almost definite that the other three will be forced to leave because Sternberg cannot afford them anymore. But those four key players aren’t the only free agents. Other Rays whose contracts are up are Grant Balfour, Randy Choate, Dan Wheeler, Chad Qualls, and Joaquin Benoit. It’s predicted that the bullpen will remain relatively the same, but with pay cuts like this nothing is set in stone.

The swim team is comprised of two parts, swimming and diving, the latter being less known. The swim component makes up the majority of the swim team, with divers often overlooked or not even existent. However, Hillsborough couldn’t help but notice the divers, or lack thereof during meets. The boys’ team currently has no divers. Senior captain Chris Snook said, “We could definitely use some.” Last season, there was one diver, Luke Hoopes, who no longer dives, but swims instead. The girls’ team, who had no divers last year, has a new addition that comprises the entire diving squad. Sophomore Gaby Stong is the solo girl diver, who competes against other schools. She came in halfway through the year, soon after the team realized its need for a diver. Earlier in the year against Academy of the Holy Names and Jesuit, Hillsborough was faced with a full set of divers on both the girls and boys opposing teams. The predicament automatically put the boys and girls teams down 20 points, and Jesuit and Academy took first place without competition. However, once Stong began diving, the difference was immediate. In a meet versus East Bay, Stong’s extra points from diving helped decide the outcome of the meet. Coach Tom Paloumpis said,“[It was the] difference between winning and losing.” The swim team needs divers because they add to the team’s total score, and as in the case of the East Bay meet, can be the deciding factor between victory and defeat. The boys team has won the Western conference meet with an astounding amount of points, but whether they move past districts to regionals and beyond rest on a few points -- points that could come from divers.

October 2010

SPORTS

15 JIMMY HERD-BOND

TIM RANDOLPH

THE BREAKAWAY BY THE NUMBERS

7touchdowns 88 yards per game 101carries 616 total yards By Devin Lee Staff Writer here is more to senior running back Tim Randolph than meets the eye. Anyone standing on the sideline can see his breakaway speed. But Tim Randolph cannot be reduced to just one factor. First, let’s look at what Randolph does off the field that puts him in a position to dominate come game time. Randolph is quick to attribute his noteworthy numbers for the year to the long hours he spends watching game film in order to study his opponent’s defense. Randolph sees his performance as a matter of personal pride, and is determined to outplay the linebackers who line up opposite him. In addition to conditioning throughout the week, Randolph knows the importance of readiness, and takes time to ensure that he is mentally prepared for his physically demanding role on the team. His work has obviously paid off, as Randolph has seven

rushing touchdowns to date and averages a gain of 6.10 yards every time he touches the football. However, even though the humble Randolph can be coaxed into admitting that he is in the midst of an above average season, he insists that once the Terriers take the field, individual statistics become irrelevant. “The only thing that matters is that we walk off the field with a win,” said Randolph, adding “as long as we do that, I’m happy.” His selfless approach to the game has proved to be rewarding. Not only is he receiving attention from The Red & Black and other local newspapers, but he is also in contact with multiple colleges. Randolph reports talking to a number of schools, including Bethune-Cookman, Delaware, Murray State, Georgia Southern, Youngstown and Texas Christian University. Randolph is keeping his options open at the moment, but makes it clear that he plans on playing football for as long as he can.

Above all, he’s knowledgeable of the game. After the subject of college football came up, he was happy to showcase his knowledge of all levels of the game and talk strategy. Even though he is a running back, he remarked that the “Let it fly” passing approach of many college football teams makes the games exciting to watch. Randolph further demonstrates that he is an all-around football fan when discussing his NFL favorites. One might expect for Randolph to look up to a flashy young running back like Reggie Bush, but instead, he reveals that his all-time favorite player is Barry Sanders, a running back who played for the Detroit Lions in the 1980s and 1990s. This choice speaks volumes about Randolph’s own football career, that quality players will pass the test of time. Those who know Tim Randolph know that his football route will lead him to success, and anyone who has watched Tim sprint into the end zone under the Friday night lights can be sure of one thing - he will get there fast.

SPORTS

@hhsredblack.com • Coverage of the football team’s drive toward the playoffs • Preview of the upcoming winter sports • Details from swim districts

Meet ‘The Sports Crew’

One student’s personal reflection on what it means to be a part of the “Sports Crew”

Two of my favorite things are sports and friends. As a result, I thought it would be a great idea to start some sort of club or group to bring the two together. Think about it. What is more fun than going with your friends to watch your other friends play sports? There is nothing more important than school spirit. But to fully understand the thrill of yelling at the top of your lungs, you actually have to be in the stands and go watch teams play. My idea manifested itself in the form of “The Sports Crew.” Right now my dream of getting people to actually go to wrestling matches, swim

meets, and baseball games is just a group on Facebook. Getting more people to go to various Hillsborough High School sports matches is not an easy thing, with homework and other responsibilities. The solution to this is well-planned suggestions to go to one sports match every week or two. At these matches, getting 20 people to “paint up” would give a real homefield advantage to our teams, and it would also be really fun. “The Sports Crew” is a good idea because it is fun painting up and yelling at refs and the opposing team. Once the idea catches on, it should grow until we have the best homefield advantage of any school in the county. - Nick Cullen

SIDELINE WHAT’S HAPPENING IN TERRIER SPORTS

October 2010

CROSS COUNTRY

New Personal Records

At the Pre-State Invitational, junior Katie Lutton and senior Fabian Woodard set crucial personal records, with Courtney Melendi close behind. The boys and girls team expects to send multiple runners to Regionals.

FOOTBALL

Varsity Record: 5-3

The football team has maintained an above .500 record this year in lieu of a quarterback switch, but the team lost another game to Armwood last week. Next up: At King on Nov. 5. SARAH RAVITZ

Eric McCaugherty lines up a putt during practice.

SWIMMING

JATHINA CAMPOS

Junior Evan Jennings watches from the sidelines during the Homecoming game.

GOLF

Boys Record 9-6 Girls Record 0-6

The girls did not advance past districts with all first-time golfers. Alison Overton had the top score with 110 strokes. The boys had a winning stretch at the end of the season to place sixth at districts, but nobody advanced. Chris Flaherty topping the scores with 88 strokes. HANNAH GAGNE

Sophomore Andy Paloumpis swims the 100 freestyle, his signature event.

Boys Record 7-1 Girls Record 5-2

With the boys’ first place finish at Western Conference, the team for them to beat at districts is Jesuit, their only season loss. The girls had a surprise second place at Western Conference and look to excel at districts too. RACHEL MOWAT

The varsity volleyball team huddles together to initiate their strategy during a match. JATHINA CAMPOS

The Sports Crew in full uniform at the Gaither football game. The “crew” was created this year to support all sports teams, and they have made appearances at several sporting events, especially volleyball.

VOLLEYBALL Varsity Record 3-9 JV Record 4-6 The varsity team was eliminated in the first round of its district tournament this week.