SNN February 2012

Two-Time Columbia Scholastic Press Association Gold Medalist

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Lakewood High School -February 29, 2012

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A word from

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By SOFIA DAMOS SNN Editor in Chief

When most of us walk through the doors of Lakewood, it’s with relative ease.

And while everyone has bumps along the way, the majority of us leave the school unscathed.

But add onto those natural “bumps” the idea of being disabled. And while disability is an umbrella term, it can cause a person difficulty in everyday life - whether it’s someone in a wheelchair, or physical differences that affect his or her experience.

Take a look at our story on pages 10-11 about three students at Lakewood who have overcome difficulties.

Reading this story reminded me of a recent scenario when I was walking through a door and saw someone coming through in a wheelchair. While it took all of four seconds to hold the door for the person, I got a thank you. A thank you from a person who told me that I’d be surprised how many people wouldn’t go back and open the door, which is sad when you think about it.

When you see a person in need, whether they are unable to keep a door open, or are struggling with papers that have fallen to the floor, do you stop and help? While walking through our school, I see a mix of both scenarios. Sometimes I see help offered, sometimes not. Yet, the fact doesn’t change, someone needed help.

And it doesn’t just extend to physical help, either, it can be emotional. The saying “a smile makes everyone feel better” still rings true. You never know what’s going on in someone’s life, and what that smile could mean to him or her.

It’s not much in the scheme of things, if you really think about it – 10 seconds to hold a door open?

As the saying goes, what goes around comes around. If there is one thing to remember – karma goes both ways.

Page 1 photo by Rachelle Gaddy: Freshman Melissa Dones pole vaults on Feb. 15 at track practice after school. A week later Dones jumped 7 feet, breaking the school record for girls just six days after she learned how to pole vault.

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DE’AIRES DENNIS | SNN

Junior Eliuth Jimenez, left, senior Kaivon Williams and senior Louis Hofer work on a project in George Garbutt’s chemistry class on Jan 27. “I like that we have the best teacher and we’re a really close group,” said Williams.

Get ready for Lyp Sync 30 The students at Lakewood High School will be displaying their talents at the annual Lyp Sync competition on March 7 at 6:30 p.m. in the Lakewood High School auditorium.

This will be the 30th year of Lyp Sync at Lakewood. This year it will be produced by CATCOM in conjunction with the Girls Service League. CATCOM will do all the technical production of the show, while GSL is selling the tickets, running rehearsals, promoting the event and coordinating the judges, among other things.

At this year’s Lyp Sync, there will be eight acts. The Lakewood drum line will be the opening performance, and the faculty is trying to pull together for a closing act that will not be judged, said GSL sponsor Kathy Zavadil.

An advance tickets are $6, and tickets at the door are $9.

“I think there’s plenty of talent at this year’s show,” said Zavadil.

- BRIANA DIXON and ARIEL LOVETT | SNN

Prom theme announced A theme for the 2012 Lakewood High School prom has been announced: City of Lights.

City of Lights was in first place with 36 percent of the vote after a one-week texting poll was conducted by CATCOM. Under the Sea came in second with 33 percent, and Cirque du Soleil came in last with 31 percent.

Prom will be on April 27 at the Coliseum in downtown St. Petersburg. Tickets costs $50. The voting was done through a texting service, in which CATCOM set up a specific number for each theme on PollEv.com/catcom.

-NAUDIA MCDANIEL and TONY O’NEAL | SNN

Corrections The longer exam day schedule for this year was not a decision made by Lakewood High School administration or because of the new block schedule. It was a decision made by the district administration in Largo, and all high schools in Pinellas County were required to follow it.

A story in the last issue of SNN was incorrect.

The Spartan volleyball team was one game short of the final four. There was an error in the last issue of SNN on how far the team went.

English teacher Nikki Hill has a sister, not a brother. A story about Hill was incorrect on this point in the last issue of SNN.

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news

Despite ‘B’ grade, block remains

By LATERIAN LATIMER and HANNAH CARLSON SNN Staff Writers

Before principal Bob Vicari came to Lakewood, the school had a D grade and was ranked 453 out of 477 schools in Florida – in the lowest five percent. Now Lakewood has a B and is ranked 207.

“The school climate has changed. … Kids are starting to take school more seriously. The teachers are better, literacy is better, and the support program has improved,” Vicari said. “Obviously we are headed in the right direction.”

Despite the good news, however, the school will remain under state supervision until next year, and the block schedule and longer day will continue, said Vicari.

“More time equals better learning in class. … So I am going to keep the 4x4 schedule,” said Vicari.

The state originally started supervising Lakewood during the 2010-11 school year because of several consecutive years of C and D grades. Their first observation was late in

the 2010-11 school year. During these visits, state officials suggested many things, including the block schedule and the longer school day.

Officials said a block schedule would increase teacher/ student contact hours. The block schedule was then devised so students wouldn’t feel so rushed in a regular seven-class day. The longer periods give students more time to manage classes.

Some students, however, still believe that the block schedule is ineffective.

“Classes are too long, so when I get done with work I have nothing to do. Even if we kept the eight classes they just all need to be in one day,” said junior Winnambi Allen.

Sophomore O’Shario Mitchell said, “It depends on the class. In the classes I need help in, I have time to get it, but my boring classes, I don’t like it. I would be disappointed with Mr. Vicari if he kept the schedule because it messes

with my nap time.”

Because of the many positive changes that occurred in the past year, Lakewood began to impress the state.

Another problem has arisen, however. The FCAT could possibly be a “speed hump,” said assistant principal Harriet Davis. Next year, the state is going to raise the difficulty for the FCAT- with the FCAT 2.0. Basically, the FCAT 2.0 is a more challenging version of the regular FCAT. For example, the reading passages in the literature segment are mainly derived from classic literature and historical documents, rather than science and geography articles.

This change annoys Vicari. “If someone runs two miles in 10 minutes, you shouldn’t raise the bar so they have to run two miles in eight minutes,” Vicari said. “The state keeps upping the bar on the test but as we get better, they make it harder and harder. … This is high school, not college!”

Teachers’ midyear departures create confusion

By LAUREN HASTINGS and SABRINA SCHMIDT SNN Staff Writers

Since the beginning of the school year, Lakewood High School has lost five teachers: Andrea Carvill, Tom Launchi, Joseph Cianelli, Pablo Franzani and Delsey Kempf.

When teachers leave midyear, it leaves the school with a position to fill and students without a teacher. Reasons for teachers leaving are varied and include personal reasons as well as professional problems.

One common reason that positions need to be re-staffed midyear is that teachers leave after their probation period of 97 days, assistant principal Susan Alvaro said.

If teachers pass 97 days, they have an annual contract that has to be renewed each year for three years until they receive a permanent contract. But according to Robert Vicari, teachers also frequently leave during their first three years.

“Often times, teaching is not as easy as everybody believes it to be,” said Alvaro.

In addition, some teachers are found unfit for their positions. CAT assistant principal Peter Oberg said that when looking for a good fit he must ask himself the questions: Are students learning? Are the students happy? Are the teachers happy?

“When there’s a good working relationship between the teacher and the class, you’re going to learn,” said Oberg.

Some positions are more difficult to staff than others. According to Oberg, higher math and sciences are harder to find applicants for. For chemistry, this is especially true.

Carvill, who taught chemistry, research and statistics, took a medical leave of absence after winter break to treat her multiple sclerosis, which was diagnosed in August 2011. M.S. is an autoimmune disease that affects the central nervous system. Carvill is planning to return next school year.

“She needs a stress-free environment, and high school isn’t stress free,” said computer teacher Chris Borg.

Currently, a substitute teacher is filling in for Carvill for research and chemistry, and Oberg is taking over academic instruction of the students for these classes.

“He does the best he can,” said sophomore Marcus Hawkins, speaking about the limited amount of time that Oberg is able to instruct the students in addition to being an administrator.

Computer teacher Melissa Heeren is teaching A.P. statistics. Oberg has placed a request with the district to find a long-term substitute for the chemistry classes. To fill in for Carvill, a substitute must have a chemistry certification.

“You just don’t find substitutes with chemistry certifications,” said Oberg.

One problem is that the county does not offer contracts to replacement teachers who start midyear. Because of this, long-term substitutes are difficult to find, Alvaro said.

In addition to Carvill’s temporary departure, another chemistry teacher, Delsey Kempf resigned, and chemistry teacher Christina Worden took on her classes.

MARIAH WATTS | SNN

Assistant principal Peter Oberg teaches Andrea Carvill’s second period chemistry class on Feb. 23 after Carvill took a leave of absence.

Franzani, a Spanish teacher, resigned after winter break, and his classes have been dispersed throughout the other Spanish teachers. Both Kempf and Franzani resigned within their 97-day probation period.

English teacher Launchi retired after winter break after almost 40 years of teaching. Keri Gartland, the former Response to Intervention coach, replaced Launchi.

Maurice Herring took over RTI in addition to being the behavior specialist.

English and creative writing teacher Cianelli resigned during the three-year period before teachers are given their permanent contracts. Elizabeth Halstead, a new

teacher, took on teaching for his classes.

According to both Alvaro and Vicari, teacher turnover like this is not uncommon.

“It’s stressful more to the students than to anyone else,” said Alvaro.

To compensate for the losses in teachers, Vicari plans to travel to Michigan in April with government teacher Alex Pittman to recruit teachers.

“We’re looking for teachers with math and science certifications,” said Vicari.

“I’m looking to hit the jackpot up in Michigan.”

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KATIE BLEVINS| SNN

A new sign on the front of the school reflects the program’s new name.

Similar name, new program

By KATIE DICKINSON and KIMBERLY KOAGEL SNN Staff Writers

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The acronym AMSET no longer stands for the Academy for Marine Science and Environmental Technology. It now stands for the Academy for Aquatic Management Systems and Environmental Technology.

The name change seems minimal, but the changes coming in the program, which were mandated by the state Department of Education, will have a big impact on incoming AMSET students.

“It’s more accurate and honest. It says what we do. I just wish it wasn’t such a mouthful to say, but as people hear about what we are doing. I hope people will recognize AMSET,” said program coordinator James Kostka.

A new program name means a new curriculum. The main change is that the program will move away from marine science and toward the topic of agriculture.

With the new curriculum AMSET teachers are able to teach more on developing animal care and plant propagation rather than water quality.

“We are going to start a Future Farmers of America chapter on campus, and I have been looking at using the outdoor classroom as a nursery,” said Kostka.

Kostka said he is also exploring the possibilities of raising goats, water fowl and quail or pheasant. He also wants to raise crops using the water from the lake and an agroponic system.

The change will not affect the students

currently in the AMSET program; they will follow the track of the old curriculum and only the incoming students will follow the new one. The new program will begin in the fall. It will be more hands on with an agriculture and biotechnology part.

“The new curriculum is more about ecosystems used for raising fish and livestock,” Kostka said.

Current AMSET students, who learned about the changes at a lunch meeting on Feb. 21, had mixed feelings.

“It sounds interesting, but I honestly like the way it was better,” sophomore Eric Bliss said.

“It doesn’t really affect me. It only affects ninth graders coming in,” freshman Katherine Smith-Frazer said.

Students in the new curriculum will be able to take a test that certifies them for entry level positions with agricultural or biotechnology facilities.

“I am happy that there will be an industry certification opportunities for students with these new additions to AMSET,” said Vicari.

The new program can allow AMSET students to explore marine and freshwater habitats, evaluate their health, and try to restore them.

“My biggest thing was that (with the old program) we weren’t able to teach a true marine science program,” said Kostka.

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Girls fight more than boys, statistics show

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Lakewood’s new volunteer coordinator Vanessa Morris wants to start a new girls club. Her club will help girls talk about important topics such as self-esteem, anger management and relationships.

Of the five major fights this year, four have involved girls. The question is why?

By DONNELL D. MIDDLETON and BARBARA NEAL SNN Staff Writers

On Jan. 14 at 2:45 p.m. a brawl began in the Lakewood High School student parking lot. Three seniors pulling out from the lot almost hit six students talking and hanging out.

Foul words were said, and the driver turned around. One student spit gum in the driver’s face and the fight began. Six students were arrested.

This scene is not confined to Lakewood. In fact, one in four high school students across the nation have admitted to being in a fight within the past school year, according to the web site, Keys to Safer Schools.

At Lakewood, however, School Resource Officer Lerric Boyd has noticed “kind of a twist.” Most of the fights here involve girls.

So far this school year, there have been five major fights. Four of those have involved girls. Only one fight this year has involved boys, Boyd said.

There are a lot of theories about why girls fight so much, but the top two reasons are related to social networking and technology.

“Too much Facebook, technology and text messaging and small talk and friends boosting them up,” said campus monitor Craig Hinton.

Another theory is that girls are more sensitive and go through much more than boys.

“Women are more emotional than men,” said behavioral specialist Maurice Herring.

“Females put it on Facebook, (and) it’s out of control,” sophomore Lashanedra Johnson said. “I think it’s very unladylike, and if more parents monitored girls’ Facebook pages, there would be less fights.”

Campus monitor Mr. Darbey said girls deal with more issues than boy. “They are more sensitive compared to boys who are more conservative,” he said.

Assistant principal Susan Alvaro disagrees, however.

“Girls are capable of the same level of self-control as boys,” she said.

As bad as the fights may seem, “overall there are not that many fights,” said Boyd.

This may be because the campus monitors and Boyd are clearing out the student parking lot, trying to get everybody off of campus by 3 p.m.

There are several methods students can take to avoid fights such as reporting the situation to an administrator, talking it out like adults or just simply walking away from the situation.

“I think (the fighting is) very immature and uncalled for, and it can be prevented by keeping things to themselves,” said sophomore T’mara Leaks.

JAMES THOMAS-BOWLES| SNN

Club aims to improve girls’ self-esteem

By AREIL WARD and JEREMY EATON SNN Staff Writers

Vanessa Morris, the new volunteer coordinator at Lakewood High School, wants to organize a girls’ social club called The Girl Circle.

“I really want to help the girls feel better around other girls. I want them to be successful in life, and I want the girls to have more support as teenagers,” she said.

Morris said The Girl Circle meetings will be in the career lab or in the conference room. At each meeting they will do different activities like hands-on art and writing activities. They will also discuss careers, relationships and real life issues.

To get into The Girl Circle you must be recommended by your teacher and there is limited space in the social club. Every six weeks 10 girls from each grade level will graduate. Morris doesn’t know when the meetings will start because she is still trying to find funds for the club.

Morris used to work at the Pinellas County Health Department and the mayor’s office. She said she came to Lakewood to be a part of a team that makes a difference in students’ lives.

Morris is married and has one dog named Delilah, two cats, four birds and one rabbit named Cheeks. Morris went to St. Petersburg High School. She has done a lot of volunteer work like drama and has experience with girls clubs. She said she enjoys acting and hanging with family and friends.

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Too fast and a little too furious

By THOMAS BARRON and LISA DIFFENDALE SNN Staff Writers

Lakewood High School algebra teacher Joshua Plant was driving to work one morning, and by the time he arrived at school, he was down $306.

Plant was driving the speed limit in the school zone on 54th Avenue when a car stopped in front of him. When he accelerated from 15 to 27 miles per hour to get around the car, a police car pulled up behind him and gave him a heartbreaking ticket.

“It was the worst day of my life. I was moving around some car stopped in the wrong lane, and I got a ticket,” said Plant.

Over the past few years speed traps have become more common and occur about once every few months at Lakewood. The police pull over any car driving in the school zone going over 15 miles per hour.

School Resource Officer Lerric Boyd calls and requests the speed traps on 54th Avenue S because he is responsible for the school’s safety.

“Personally I don’t think they do it enough. I’ve spoken to the authorities about

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By SARA-KAY WEST and CAROLINE DUNNING

doing them in the afternoon, too,’’ said Boyd.

Police officers have no leniency toward anyone speeding in a school zone, and they are allowed to pull you over for going 16 miles per hour, according to Boyd.

The officers use different tactics to catch as many speeders as possible, dressing as students and hiding cameras and cop cars. They use advanced speed guns to clock how fast a car is moving.

Senior Eric Ford also received a ticket for $150 for going three miles per hour over the speed limit in the Lakewood school zone.

“I don’t think they should be able to do that. Your speedometer can be off by that much,” said Ford.

Last Thursday, senior Andrew Truong and junior Jesse Sokolov were both ticketed $306 for going 27 miles per hour.

“I was just parking, and the cop turns on his lights as I pulled in,” said Sokolov.

“The cop himself didn’t even clock me,” said Truong. “He said his ‘friend’ clocked me.

It’s like, ridiculous.”

KAMDON MARTIN | SNN

A speed limit sign flashes in front of Lakewood High School on the morning of Feb. 22. Speed traps are common in school zones, and drivers caught speeding have to pay heavy fines.

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Inspiration hits, and the filming begins. The red light starts blinking, and they start talking to themselves. Whether you’re into Minecraft, Rubik’s Cubes, or some local hiphop, Lakewood has some YouTube channel masters. YouTube is a video sharing service that allows users to watch videos posted by other users and upload videos of their own worldwide.

Sophomore John Douglas “JD” Willett posts videos of Minecraft.“Minecraft is a game where you go around surviving in a world and collecting resources to build houses and create stuff,” explains Willett. “It’s fun.”

Got Minecraft on your mind? You don’t have to look far, as Willett’s channel, Masterjuanb, is the place to go. His videos illustrate Minecraft in a unique fashion. While Willett is mining coal, building a house, or defending himself from “creepers,” he invigorates his broadcasts by rambling on about random topics.

It all started in 2009, when Willett was making stop-motion Lego videos and his neighbor decided to post the videos online. Since 2009, Willett has gained about 247 subscribers and more than 120,000 views. To celebrate, he recorded many videos, thanking viewers for watching. He is also being recognized by people in England, Finland and Sweden.

“My Starcraft partner, a dude in Finland said: You’re awesome,” boasted Willett.

Meanwhile, sophomore Zach Shea creates videos on Rubik’s cubes.

“It’s a puzzle. That’s all it is. A toy, something to play around with, basically,” said Shea.

He watched videos of other people solving Rubik’s cubes and it gave him the idea to try his hand at it. “I figured I’d give it a go and try to build up an audience,” said Shea.

He has 3,900 views on just one of his videos. Shea does not post videos every week, but when he does, he enjoys the editing process before it gets uploaded. With 100 subscribers and close to 100,000 views, his

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SOFIA DAMOS | SNN

Sophomore Zack Shea, who has a YouTube channel, solves a Rubik’s Cube. channel, joercruso, is doing pretty well.

Then there’s senior Mike “Slick” Jones, who posts videos of original hip-hop, gospel and some comedy.

“It’s an urban expression of thoughts, emotions and feelings musically,” Jones said. He describes hip-hop as “something that’s real.”

YouTube clicked for Jones because it seemed to be where his videos belonged. Not only does Jones spit hip-hop, but he also belts out gospel to change it up.

“What gets me in the zone are my senses,” Jones explains, “It just kind of comes.

Whatever I think about, I get inspired.”

Jones’s channel, Slicktastiikskp4, has a lot of “stupid stuff,” like his comedy. It comes off the top off his head and he then builds on them to act out skits.

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features

Teachers band together

By SOFIA DAMOS and KAYLA GARCIA SNN Staff Writers

A group of five Lakewood High School teachers came together in the fall originally to perform for the talent show, as a filler or an extra act. But maybe being inspired by the Beatles’ Come Together, they decided to stick together.

Their name is still under debate: the EffMinuses, Eff-Minuses 22%, or completely undecided. “(We’re the) Eff-Minuses, ‘cause we’re a teacher band…and we’re all slackers in one way or another,” said music teacher Jacob Merrett.

With Merrett on keyboard, James Kostka on drums, Phillip Morgan doing vocals, Joshua Plant on guitar and Bruce Hewett on bass, the band seems complete.

“It all came through the talent show.

We decided to put together a song and we just kept playing,” said Plant.

At the show itself, the group played three songs and had an encore. With songs like The Lazy Song by Bruno Mars, Come Together by the Beatles, and Friday by Rebecca Black, they tried to play music that the students would like.

“It was the biggest audience I’ve played rock for, about 100 kids,” said Kostka. “I was really surprised at the (great) response; it was a tough crowd.”

The band decided to continue to play together because they had a good time and they used the extra time on Wednesdays to practice.

“It’s awesome; it makes coming to school easier sometimes,” said Plant.

Kostka and Hewett have played together for years. Both were in a local band called The Rude Boys, while Plant and Morgan have jammed with each other before.

The band has no set genre, frequently bringing in their own music to add to the “book,” which consists of sheet music by the Beatles, White Stripes, Cage the Elephant and the Foo Fighters.

The teacher band is looking to play outside of school, at local bars and restaurants. They have a festival in April, where they will be playing a set in front of a live audience.

“We’re not trying to be rock stars.

We’re just trying to have fun with it,” Kostka said.

MADELINE GLASSMAN | SNN

Teachers, from left, Jacob Merrett, Joshua Plant, Bruce Hewitt and James Kostka practice on Feb. 22 in Kostka’s classroom.

RAYMON CLEVELAND| SNN

Above: Math teacher Phillip Morgan, vocalist of the Eff-Minuses sings during a rehearsal on Feb. 22.

At left: Teacher Bruce Hewitt, bassist of the new teacher band, rehearses after school on Feb. 22.

RAYMON CLEVELAND | SNN

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spartannewsnetwork:

By CHELSEA HELT and AMELIA ALBERTS

The entire world can read it and see it and be exposed to your innermost thoughts, and yet it’s still considered “private.” Tumblr is what many students would consider their digital diary.

“Most people are nicer on Tumblr and not worried about being judged. … No one’s concerned about being in a certain group,” is junior Brian Giddens explanation of why Tumblr is most often the outlet for teenage angst.

What started out as a minor idea sky-rocketed within weeks of its release. David Karp created Tumblr in 2007 at age 21, and was named the official founder and CEO. Shortly after Tumblr’s launch it gained thousands of users, obviously a popular trend in the making. Now, five years later, Tumblr has millions of users, with billions of posts.

In addition to Tumblr’s many teenage users, you may come across blogs authored by celebrities such as Lady Gaga, John Mayer, Tyler the Creator and even President Barack Obama.

From the minute you begin to make your blog, nearly everything is yours to customize: your URL, your blog layout, your posts, who you follow, who follows you and your privacy settings. Your “dashboard” is the central compilation of all the blogs that you “follow,” meaning that their posts show up on your dashboard, making it easier to “reblog” them.

Reblogging is the act of taking what someone else had on their blog and putting it on yours, much like a copy and paste. Tumblr is a haven of variant expression for almost any person’s taste. You can blog about any topic that comes to mind, and chances are there is someone you can follow who shares that interest with you.

Sophomore Katie Addler said she enjoys reblogging pictures that are “retro,” feature nature or portray inspiring words that she can relate to.

“The awesome pictures and hilarious videos are

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entertaining … and time consuming,” said Addler on her favorite aspect of Tumblr.

Like many, Addler agrees that while Facebook is a sufficient social network for connecting with friends and family, Tumblr allows users to practice self-expression, free of most judgment, with an enduring dose of anonymity. The amount of personal information you wish to display is completely up to you. There is no need for even your name to be displayed, all you need is a username and password, and a world of possibilities is yours to explore.

A person’s Tumblr is frequently acknowledged as a step inside their mind and something deeply personal. It is where aspects of a person or their interests that they could be insecure about can freely shine and can relate to others who feel the same way.

At times, though, one blog is simply not enough to satisfy a person. Many people have multiple blogs.

Typical themes include: fashion, music, weight loss, meme, tattoos, summer, advice and confession.

While Tumblr’s growing popularity astounds users and critics alike, there is always the negative that follows, hand-in-hand, with the positive.

“Tumblr is not a vast, original concept. Instead of invoking originality you use pictures and copy others.

There is no original expression,” said senior Dominic Harris, who dislikesTumblr.

Even with the contrasting views, it seems that Tumblr is here to stay. As society and technology progress, so do the outlets of expression. Instead of hiding your diary under your bed, this generation shamelessly publishes its thoughts on the internet, with a vague sense of anonymity.

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features

Teaching the teachers

By CAPRICE ALFRED and DEVIN DAVIAU SNN Staff Writers

ANTHONY LAWERENCE | SNN

A student in Jason Ness’ engineering class works on wiring for a robot. Two of the robotics teams from Lakewood went to states on Feb. 18 in Daytona Beach. The teams came in 11th and 16th place.

Two robotics teams compete at state level

By WYATT KNOX and DEVON ROGERS SNN Staff Writers

At the end of a long school day, the football team can typically be found practicing on Spartan Field. In upstairs A-Wing, however, a different type of team can be found preparing for a different type of sport. And all the hard work by the Lakewood robotics teams has paid off.

This year, two Lakewood High School teams made the First Tech Challenge Florida Championship in Daytona Beach on Feb. 18: NeXT and Clockwork. Team NeXT impressed the crowd with an undefeated showing at the qualifying round at Mariner High School on Jan. 14, securing first place in the competition and advancing to states, where they finished 16th. Clockwork took fifth place in the qualifier at Seminole High School on Jan. 21, nabbing a position at states, where they placed 11th.

NeXT team captain, junior Ian Van Stralen, figures himself born to fill the role of engineer. “Some people’s dads want them to play football. My dad wanted me building robots,” said Van Stralen. Last year, NeXT didn’t quite do as well as they wanted to, finishing 22nd out of 32 teams at the state competition. They redeemed themselves this year, finishing 16th out of 32 teams in Daytona.

Arguably the most important person contributing to the success of a good robotics team is the driver, the one under the most pressure to pull through. For NeXT, Alex

Power mans the controls. Balancing concentrating on positioning the robot, and listening to input from his captain is daunting enough to the average person, but to Power, it’s just a day in the life. Luckily for him, his teammates aren’t around to make his job more stressful.

“They are far enough away that I can block them out,” said Power.

“I have the ultimate confidence in my teams,” said Jason Ness, club sponsor. “NeXT has done a really good job of refining their robot and going through the correct engineering steps.”

Ness also has high praise for Clockwork. “I think it’s amazing what Clockwork has done this year, given their experience,” said Ness.

While the members of NeXT have had previous experience at robotics competitions, Clockwork is composed of only freshmen, brand new to the high school robotics scene. Headed by team captain Matt Nipper, Clockwork went into the state competition with an open mind.

“It scares me,” said Nipper before the competition, “but at the same time it will be a lot of fun.” Clockwork certainly exceeded expectations at the state level, finishing 11th out of 32 teams and surpassing their veteran counterparts, team NeXT.

As the class begins Jacob Merrett welcomes his newest guitar students. The students, however, are in fact our very own teachers.

As the newest music teacher this year, Merrett has already created a new way of bringing teachers together by offering guitar classes to them. The classes are every Monday at 3 p.m..

Many teachers such as James Kostka, Cory Moore, and even the principal Robert Vicari are all members of the class.

“I thought that it would be a great opportunity for the teachers to learn a new skill as well as spend time together,” said Merrett, “and guitar is very easily accessible and can be a very personally fulfilling experience.”

Moore, Lakewood’s football coach, joined the class the first day it started. Although he already had prior knowledge of playing the electric guitar, he took the class to learn acoustic, unite with his colleagues and learn more about the history of guitar.

“I think it is a good opportunity to expand my love of music,” said Moore.

Merrett says it’s not hard to teach the teachers guitar because they know what it is like to be on the “other side of the desk.”

“It’s really interesting, because while I don’t have issues with actually teaching the content, I do see the same kinds of things happening in class that happen during the school day – side conversations, checking cell phones, zoning out for a few seconds, general off-task behaviors –all of which are pretty universal when it comes to having to sit and listen to someone else talk for an hour,” said Merrett.

Merrett says the teachers aren’t the only ones who are able to take guitar classes, either. Students can register for Guitar I next year, and no experience is required. Students can use a school guitar if they do not own their own instruments, he said.

Music teacher Jacob Merrett plays along with Lakewood teachers on Feb. 22.

MADELINE GLASSMAN | SNN

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features

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Overcoming Obstacles Three students at Lakewood show that their differences can’t stop them from succeeding.

‘My ultimate goal is to walk’

By SYMONE BROWN SNN Staff Writer

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kinny jeans fitted on short legs appear from beneath a desk. Big metallic wheels roll to meet them. The blonde boy uses his arms to support himself on the desk’s rail and maneuvers from the desk to the mobile seat.

For most of us, we can complete tasks like getting out of our desks without even thinking. But for freshman Brendan Garrison, it isn’t that easy.

The freshman, who must use a wheelchair to get around, was diagnosed with cerebral palsy at birth.

“It’ll always be there, but I don’t think much of it,” says Garrison about his condition.

His disability was caused by a brain bleed during infancy. In Garrison’s case, he doesn’t have any mental defects; it only targeted his lower body and left side, making it weaker than the rest of his limbs.

He attends physical therapy four days a week at All Children’s Hospital and has had seven surgeries to correct the physical symptoms. His most recent surgery was resetting the bones in his legs and turning his feet forward a couple months ago. Garrison can walk with a walker, but having a wheelchair is a more efficient way of getting around Lakewood.

Despite his condition, Garrison tries to be a regular teenager as much as possible.

“I can do normal things just like everyone else; I just have to find a way to do them differently,” he says.

If an activity requires standing, he will do it sitting down or on his knees and use his upper body strength to maneuver himself. He prefers sitting in a desk rather than his wheelchair and enjoys skateboarding on his knees, going to the mall and walking around his block. Sometimes he even rolls

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HARLEY WALLER | SNN

Freshman Brendan Garrison hangs out with his friends Xavier Aguilar and Sean Lally at break on Feb. 21. Garrison has cerebral palsy, a condition that impairs muscle coordination. To improve his health, he goes to therapy Monday through Thursday every week. himself home.

“I don’t like to focus on the things I can’t do,” Garrison says. “I just try to do those things in a different way.”

When he can’t do something because of his cerebral palsy, he says it frustrates him.

Garrison prefers to do things himself and doesn’t like to rely too much on the help of others. He feels like he would be taking advantage of them.

“The things I can do myself, I try to do them,” Garrison says, “but the things I can’t do, I feel bad for the people who have

to do them for me.”

But he isn’t in this alone.

Garrison says his friends and family are supportive, remain positive and help him through it.

“I always try to help him and motivate him,” says freshman Xavier Aguilar, who has known Garrison since kindergarten.

Freshman Harley Waller thinks Garrison is more than his disability. “People shouldn’t just see him as the kid in the wheelchair,” Waller says.

“They should see him for him.”

“I can do normal things just like everyone else; I just have to find a way to do them differently.”

Though Garrison has a steady support system and confidence, he still wishes for something more.

He says he began to see the downside of his disability after coming to high school.

He watches other kids do the tasks he struggles with so easily.

“I wish I could just be a teenager and do normal things without all the extra steps to do them,” Garrison says.

Garrison still continues to persevere through his struggles. He is working to strengthen himself enough to be able to walk again.

“I don’t see myself in a wheelchair the rest of my life,” Garrison says. “My ultimate goal is to walk.”

W e d n e s d a y, F e b r u a r y 2 9 , 2 0 1 2

features

‘Heart and determination’

By SHA’KIERA WILLIAMS and KEONTE’ BARBERY SNN Staff Writers

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hen freshman Kellee Weston was in sixth grade, she could walk. But during seventh grade, she had a minor stroke. Part of her treatment, she said, was to take steroids. Somehow she was given too much medicine – and this changed her whole life.

Weston now must use a wheelchair to get around. “I can go anywhere I want, when I want,” she said. “I can also do whatever I want. I just like for someone to be there to help me.”

Math teacher Diana Keller said Weston is an excellent student.

“She’s an honor roll student, makes straight A’s. She gets all her work done,” Keller said. “I wish I had a class full of her.

She’s a fast learner. She catches on to stuff real quick.”

In addition to being a good student, Weston was able to participate on the swim team this year. Though she wasn’t able to swim in meets, she trained to be competition ready and collected data during the meets.

Swim coach James Kostka says Weston is a hard worker and will swim in the future. “I hope next season we can build her skills so that she can race. I think she has it in her,” he says.

He also said he admires her perseverance. “This girl had more heart and determination than many of the kids on the team. I feel Kellee is a role model to show that no matter what you want, if you work at it and give it your all, you can make gains,” says Kostka.

Weston worked on her kicking and pulling using various flotation devices, Kostka said. “By the end of the season, Kellee was doing laps in the pool.”

Supporting her team and making sure everyone keeps focused was also Weston’s role on the team, said senior Josh Conradi, the captain of the swim team.

“She just wanted to be there to feel a part of the swim team,” he said.

Weston said three days a week she does kidney dialysis to help her kidneys function better. She mainly uses a wheelchair but says she can walk for short distances and she is confident that she will walk again – hopefully when she walks across the stage to get her diploma.

“Just because I’m in a wheelchair, it doesn’t stop me,” she said.

-Staff Writer Symone Brown contributed to this story.

“Just because I’m in a wheelchair, it doesn’t stop me.”

MONICA SCRUGGS | SNN

Freshman Kellee Weston sits outside the gym in her wheelchair on Feb. 16. Watson said she would like to be out of a wheelchair by the time she graduates high school.

Can’t stop the beat

By MELISSA DONES and KRYSTAL IVY SNN Staff Writers

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unior Brian Giddens has no earwax. He can’t feel the “pop” while at high altitudes in an airplane, or feel the pressure when he’s swimming in deep water - and no one can give him a wet willy.

Giddens was born with no ears so he wears hearing aids. “I don’t know how it feels to have normal ears. I can’t tell the difference,” Giddens said.

Despite his physical challenge, Giddens enjoys playing piano, skateboarding and making music using the computer. He describes himself as “outgoing” and a “pretty big nerd.” Anyone who doesn’t know him well wouldn’t notice he has no ears, with his bushy, brown hair. He wears special headphones that connect to his hearing aids; therefore he can listen to music with them.

“He is hilarious, outgoing, and doesn’t care what people think, and doesn’t let people get to him,” said junior Joshua Krantz, a friend of Giddens’. He says about Giddens’ headphones, “He can listen to music all day.”

Giddens is taking three technology classes, including AP

Java, web design 2 and new media. He said he wants to become a computer programmer when he is older. He describes how finding a job with his situation may be different. For example, he can’t join the Army.

Some positive aspects of having no ears and wearing hearing aids is that he controls what he hears, he can turn off his hearing aids and he can read lips. Also, it makes it easier to sleep at night because he takes his hearing aids out before he goes to bed.

The negative aspect of wearing hearing aids is the cost. The hearing aids cost $2,500 each. He also had to get five surgeries. The challenges he had to face are the teasing in elementary and in middle school. The students didn’t know about kids with disabilities and they freaked out, he said.

Since he has been at Lakewood, however, he hasn’t faced any conflicts. Students here reply “cool.”

Junior Sharae Golden, a friend, said she doesn’t think much about his disability. “It doesn’t concern me. ... As long as he can hear, it’s good. He is still the funny, hardworking guy I know.”

“I don’t know how it feels to have normal ears. I can’t tell the difference.”

MONICA SCRUGGS| SNN

Junior Brian Giddens was born with no ears, but can still hear with hearing aids.

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Behind the Scenes E veryday you come to school. Lunches are prepared. Classrooms are tidied. Announcements are made. Everything runs rou-

tinely. The little things like a clean bathroom stall are often overlooked. People don’t bother to notice or recognize the people who make them happen. SNN brings you a glimpse of the unseen heroes of Lakewood.

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any students may not have heard of Austin Simmons, but when you’re sick and you just threw up in class, he cleans it up. Simmons is the head plant operator at Lakewood High School.

Simmons started at Lakewood on Sept. 1, 2011.

“Cleaning up poop and vomit doesn’t bother me,” said Simmons. It’s not one of the worst things he said. “I had to get a possum from under the portable and it was stinky,” said Simmons.

“The best part about my job is that I have the early shift,” said Simmons.

Simmons came from Bay Point Elementary School and has been a plant operator for 20 years. The only difference between high school and elementary school is that the high school is bigger than elementary school and high school entails more responsibility.

Keeping the school a safe learning environment is what he likes doing. For Simmons his day is never ending and keeps him on her toes.

“I love my job,” said Simmons. “It’s all about the kids.”

- KAHIL HOLMES, SNN Staff Writer

S Photos By: BRIANNA JOHNSON, AMY TRAN, GAVIN ZITMAN, RAYMON CLEVELAND, KRYSTAL MITCHELL Design By: KATIE ATKISSON ©Google Maps

eniors Rebecca Schnell and Justin Gonzalez prepare for the CATCOM morning show on Feb. 2. Everyday CATCOM students produce and broadcast a morning show for Lakewood High School. Gonzalez says CATCOM is hectic. “Everyone is running around everywhere and it’s stressful, but at the end we produce something awesome.”

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o his hand, p announcem before he s morning an

ost mornings, glasses perched on his nose, paper in principal Bob Vicari goes over the morning ments. He goes over the paper several times starts to prevent mistakes. Vicari thinks the nnouncements are very important and set the tone for the day. “I really enjoy doing the announcements … I get to recognize students hard work.”

A

lthough school doesn’t start until 7:05 a.m., the cafeteria staff arrives at 6:15 every day to prepare breakfast and lunch for the students of Lakewood High School.

Food Service Manager Carol Workley has worked at Lakewood for 15 and a half years. She is in charge of ordering the food, securing the money and supervising the cafeteria staff.

A normal day for the cafeteria crew goes something like this: At 6:30 a.m. the staff arrives and makes breakfast and then serves it. After that, they prepare for lunch at around 8 a.m., which includes ordering pizzas, making sandwiches and salting fries. When the lunch rush is over, Workley makes the deposits and stores the leftovers.

She says that Tampa Bay Harvest comes to the cafeteria to pick up the leftovers and sorts the food and gives it to the homeless. All schools in Pinelas County do this.

The staff usually gets done at 2 p.m.

The students in the Autistic Unit at Lakewood help the cafeteria staff make the food in the morning. “Their world would be tipped upside down if they couldn’t work in the cafeteria,” said faculty member Ashley Coker.

Workley says the myth that cafeteria food is gross is not true at Lakewood. “It is good food.” She said her staff keeps the kitchen very clean, especially since the kitchen is as old as the school, which was built in 1967.

She enjoys her job. “I just like what I do,” said Workley.

- KC SHELTON, SNN Staff Writer

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MSET coordinator James Kostka, left, cleans tanks outside the AMSET classroom in February. Above, senior Leanne Scott shows Kostka a fish she caught in the outdoor classroom, an area east of the school where students get hands-on experience in marine science and aquatic management.

opinion

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Editorial

Maturity rating at all-time low The race for the White House is heating up, and the battle for the Republican nomination is getting brutal. It seems that the Republican presidential candidates will do and say anything to win the nomination. In attack ad after attack ad, candidates disassociate one another from the party they represent.

This is really no way for our future leaders to behave and conduct themselves in public. But blame is also on our side for allowing ourselves to be affected by such bickering.

Exhibit A: A Mitt Romney Super-Pac ad intended to smear opponent Newt Gingrich uses the fact that Gingrich cosponsored a bill with Nancy Pelosi as a negative attack simply because Pelosi is a Democrat. The Romney attacks do not end there. Even on our local Tampa Bay Times website, Romney attack ads are hung like banners across your screen. But Romney is not the only culprit at hand.

If you have caught any debates recently, you have seen a glorified crying competition. If you haven’t seen a debate, allow us to recap: Gingrich shouts at Romney for alleged involvement in attack ads.

Romney disagrees and returns with the old “what do you have to hide, Newt?” while Ron Paul tries desperately to get any sort of media coverage he can.

When it comes nomination time, party lines are not a protective barrier from political warfare. Republican on Republican violence is now a common occurrence.

An inherently flawed political business

Spartan News Network Staff Editor-in-Chief: Sofia Damos Managing Editor: Julia Pohlmann Designers: Chris Deister, Katie Atkisson Multimedia Editors: Katie Atkisson, Madeline Glassman Entertainment Editor: Symone Brown Online Editors: Molinseai Elcius, Jessica Thornton Web Technician: Lauren Hastings Opinion Editor: Zubin Kapadia

Code of Ethics SCOTTY SCHENCK | SNN

is the cause for this warfare. When a member of the U.S. Senate is up for reelection and asks the support of his party, the party first makes sure that candidate has not voted for the opposite party during his term. If they have, then no soup for you. It’s comparable to gang warfare in many senses. If you help the enemy, your support is nowhere to be found. And even if you fraternize with the enemy, your political career is essentially dead.

These men are supposed to be running for the position of leader of the free world, but their maturity level is that of a sixth-grader arguing over who gets the last piece of pizza. These glorified whining contests are a disgrace to our Ameri-

can system of democracy. Our country is supposed to set an example for how people are free to choose their leaders.

These wannabe politicians are nothing more than aggravated millionaires trying to eliminate taxes while collecting another paycheck. A little verbal jousting is going to happen in a race with such high stakes, but when presidential candidates argue and pass rumors like 12-year-olds, there has to be a change.

This editorial was written by SNN staff writer Matt Saunders and reflects the opinion of the entire SNN Editorial Board.

As journalists for the Spartan News Network, we work together as a community with respect, professionalism, accuracy and curiosity. We collect information and dig deep to get to the bottom of the most current events to produce and distribute hard-hitting and honest news to the Lakewood community in a timely manner. SNN is an open forum that strives to accurately report a balanced and truthful depiction of the news while remaining objective. Our main goal at SNN is to build and maintain trust with the people, to give a voice to the voiceless and to succeed at not just painting the picture, but telling the story behind the art.

SNN is produced by the students of Lakewood High School.

1400 54th Ave. S St. Petersburg, FL (727) 893-2916, ext. 2163 SNN is printed

by Lakewood’s business partner, the Tampa Bay Times.

Share Your Opinions

Letters to the editor should be sent to tobink@pcsb.org.

They should concern an opinion on a featured editorial or news story. They must be signed, accurate and at most 150 words. Letters may be edited for taste, length and grammar.

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For more news, go to the SNN web site:

snntoday.pcsb.org

W e d n e s d a y, F e b r u a r y 2 9 , 2 0 1 2

opinion

Columns

Pregnancy: nothing to kid around with

By CHELSEA HELT SNN Staff Writer

As our society has progressed recently, it seems that having a child has turned into some kind of fad. MTV’s series 16 and Pregnant glorifies teen pregnancy, thus making it seem like a desirable lifestyle. As if most likely dropping out of school and deserting your future is something to be proud of. As if giving up what was left of your childhood and innocence is an enjoyable thing to do.

As if attempting to take on a job meant for a more mature mind and body isn’t likely to harm you and your child as time goes on.

Over 2,200 teens become pregnant ev-

ery day. I cannot comprehend what would possess those young girls to willingly throw away their lives filled with such promise, all for simply throwing caution to the wind.

Pregnancy is something to be cherished and revered when one is mature enough to experience it. Creating another human life should be something that you hold near and dear to your heart and reserve until you are ready. You probably are not ready when you are in your teens, not socially, not emotionally, not financially and not mentally. That child should not be placed in your care.

Not only are pregnant teens potentially negatively affecting their child’s life, they are likely ruining their own. Acquiring education is of the utmost importance,

especially a high school diploma. Without such, there is almost no way you can provide for yourself, much less your child.

Being a mother is a full time job that prevents many young women from finishing their high school careers. Dropping out may sabotage you and your child’s future, and so a vicious cycle forms. These human lives shouldn’t be inhibited in any way because of their parents’ careless, naïve and ignorant decisions.

Morals seem to be nonexistent within our society’s youth. I hear about freshman having sex with seniors. “Friends with benefits” is a common type of high school relationship, and sex within the first or second week of a relationship is nearly a common practice. Teenagers have forgotten how to corral their hormones and suppress

their desires. Sex used to be reserved until marriage, and now girls appear to throw themselves at any boy who flatters them.

This is why so many children have divorced or single parents; the parents may feel obligated to stay together for the benefit of the child, but share an unloving relationship, thus providing a poor role model for a relationship, or they won’t even attempt to stay together.

As a teenager, you should not be allowed to have and/or raise a child. Your ill-decisions should not doom another life or your own because you cannot fully comprehend the repercussions of your actions.

Sex and pregnancy are not light subjects. Teenagers need to further understand cause and possibly life-lasting effects. You lie in the bed that you make.

science and technology - but we are all one school.

Still, some students in CAT continue to debate this point with the argument that when applying for college, CAT students have a different code than traditional Lakewood.

We believe that we are one school and should be treated as such. CAT, CJAM and AMSET, are specialized programs within Lakewood. Many students don’t want to be associated with one another, but regardless, the truth is we are all one.

Imagine you are a traditional or CAT student. If someone were to tell you that you aren’t the same as them, or that their

classes were better, how would you feel?

Lakewood principal Bob Vicari said CAT is an important part of Lakewood, but not its own school. He said that it has the same graduation, senior dance and senior activities. Although the program requires having a few separate classes, Vicari tries to combine non-STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) classes with all types of students.

“As a principal you never want to separate students,” said Vicari. However, because the CAT program is nationally ranked, Vicari said it should serve as an inspiration to the rest of the school.

CAT assistant principal Peter Oberg said

that CAT wasn’t meant to be a different school. The program is open to anyone who meets the requirements. He says that CJAM, AMSET and PCCA at Gibbs High are all specialized programs tailored to meet the students’ needs.

Lakewood is one school and we as students need to act as such. We need to forget our differences and try to understand one another. We need to show that despite who we are, we can get along with those around us. This is what it means to be one; one school, one student body, one people.

-Kayla Garcia is a junior in the traditional program and Scotty Schenck is a sophomore in the CAT program.

We are many programs - but one school

By KAYLA GARCIA and SCOTTY SCHENCK SNN Staff Writer

Lakewood High School has one football team – not one for the Center for Advanced Technologies and one for the traditional students. We have one school band, one Student Government Association, one Girls Service League and one National Honor Society. And when the state gives the school a grade, it’s a combination of all students in every program at Lakewood.

Lakewood may be made up of different parts - traditional, journalism, marine

Music in the halls: Is it a nuisance or not?

By ZUBIN KAPADIA SNN Opinions Editor

“Hey, son! Give me those headphones!”

“I’m not doing anything wrong.”

“I don’t care. Give them to me now!”

“But, but, but -” “No if’s and’s or but’s! I’m taking them. You can have them back at the end of the day.”

This is a common scene when you see me walking down the halls of Lakewood.

You may not know my name, but you know of me. I’m the teen with giant head-

phones; they’re red with a blue center and thick white padding.

The above conversation is one I have just about every day with every hall monitor and every teacher. When I walk down the halls I don’t like to be pestered by other humans – to make my walk to classes easier I put on my headphones and tune out all the other white noise - from useless rumors to annoying conversations. I prefer to listen to sweet melodious sounds that tend to keep me calm and stop me from running my mouth and turning myself into a mill spewing out gibberish nonsense.

However, there are those who do not

appreciate my right to be able to listen to what I choose to listen to. I’m pestered by teachers and hall monitors to continuously take off my headphones, but on what grounds? Because it is written in the Pinellas County Code of Conduct? Understandably it is a rule, but what justification is there for this rule? I choose to listen to what I like and remove the ability for others to hear it because I am being courteous.

Honestly, I just find it rude that, because there is a misunderstanding in the rules, students must suffer a day without music. When the music becomes a nuisance, I can understand that it entitles

the hall monitors to take away my headphones. However, when I listen to music, I do so in a way that no one else is bothered, and yet it always happens to be me who gets his headphones taken away, not the student who is blasting music off his phone.

In the end, all I ask is for a proper explanation of this rule and why it should be enforced. What is the reasoning behind it?

And if you are going to enforce it – I ask that you enforce it fairly upon the entire student body, not just on isolated students.

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entertainment W e d n e s d a y, F e b r u a r y 2 9 , 2 0 1 2

Your page for reviews of the latest movies, books, fashion and music.

Never Mind the Crazy Train

By TRISTAN SHULER SNN Staff Writer

Van Halen is one of the greatest rock bands of all time, regardless of their line-up, period. A Different Kind of Truth, released on Feb. 12, refuses to let anything change that fact.

It has been 14 years since Van Halen put out an album, the most recent being Van Halen III released in 1998. David Lee Roth returns to his proper place as lead singer with Eddie Van Halen’s son, Wolfgang, taking the place of Michael Anthony, a.k.a.

Mr. Jack Daniels on bass guitar.

The album opens up with the track Tattoo, the single that was released for the album, which is in classic Van Halen style with a catchy chorus. The rest of the album follows, with the high-octane Van Halen that has dominated the world of rock n’ roll for decades. Eddie plays guitar just as well as the first time Eruption came on the radio. Roth’s voice has deepened noticeably but still delivers the high notes that he is famous for. Wolfgang keeps the songs moving with a background bass presence, and Alex Van Halen miraculously keeps in exact rhythm with his brother.

Remembering Whitney

By SYMONE BROWN SNN Staff Writer

INTERSCOPE RECORDS

A Different Kind of Truth, as hinted by its cover art, feels just like a train ride.

Hard-Rock bluesy tracks are followed by metal tracks with soloing so hot it makes most modern day metal guitar players look inexperienced.

This album is the thing that rock has needed to make its presence powerful again in a world where the charts are dominated by a Barbie doll and teens warbling Top 40s from the ‘80s.

If this is a taste of what 2012 will bring, I will await the new tunes with my devil horns held high.

New Carter book good read

“The Voice.”

The angelic voice that touched hearts, generation after generation.

The impeccable voice that made history and broke records.

The voice of Whitney Houston that is now silenced, forever.

The iconic songstress was found dead on Feb. 11 in the bathtub at the Beverly Hilton Hotel in Beverly Hills, Calif. At 48-years-old, Houston died of causes that have yet to be determined.

During her career, she was named “the most awarded female act of all time” by the Guinness Book of World Records and was one of the best-selling female artists ever.

She won 415 awards for her music and movies, released 10 albums and sold more than 170 million albums, singles and videos worldwide.

Houston is infamous for her crazy antics, chaotic marriage to New Edition singer Bobby Brown and her struggle with drug addiction. She was no angel but without a doubt, her voice was nothing less than heavenly.

The students of Lakewood High School weigh in on this tragic loss of the icon: “I can’t believe she’s gone. She was my inspiration. She’ll always be a part of my life,” says senior Kalif Johnson.

“I was very sad because I grew up listening to her. My mom played her music all time. I don’t think they’ll ever find a voice like hers,” says junior Albrea Crowell.

By TELISHIA SIMMONS SNN Staff Writer

Not a Good Look

by Nicki Carter is a tale of a high school senior named Sunday who has dreams of becoming a singer.

They finally come true when she is signed to a high-paying record KENSINGTON PUB. label. Sunday is then faced with the dilemma between choosing school and her music career.

Despite all the good things that are happening to her, she has to deal with the

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jealousy of her cousin, Dreya, and her best friend, Bethany. She overcomes her problems with the help of her friend, Sam, her mom and her promoter, who encourage and support her in following her dreams.

I like this book because I can relate to the characters. The situations in the book and the drama are faced by a lot of us every day. It’s funny and will keep you interested.

When I read the other Nicki Carter books in the series, I couldn’t put them down, and that rings true with Not a Good Look as well. I would recommend this book to all teenage girls.

“She was a phenomenal singer and it was sad that she died that early and that way,” says junior Adrian Palmore.

“It’s terrible. We lost a legend in music,” says senior Tevin McCullough.

“I was so sad. She was one of my main idols. I’ve listened to all her songs. All her songs are on my iPod,” says senior Bria Fuller.

- Quotes and photos by Brian Barfield, Melissa Dones, Krystal Ivy and Cierra Champagne.

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entertainment

Story, Tatum make Vow worth a look

By JULIA POHLMANN SNN Staff Writer

CBS FILMS

Potter’s back in black

By MAE PEMBERTON and SHANIECE MATHEW SNN Staff Writers

The Woman in Black, directed by James Watkins, stars Daniel Radcliffe as Arthur Kipps, a lawyer who travels to a small town to do some business at the El Marsh House.

He soon discovers that something is very wrong with the house, town and the people in it.

Arthur soon finds that he is not alone; there is a hostile ghost in the house with him.

When he discovers more about the house and its past, it makes him very worried about the safety of his son, who is coming to visit.

The unexpected plot twists made this film enjoyable, though they made the movie hard to follow at times. Radcliffe succeeds at making a name for himself outside of Harry Potter.

We would definitely recommend this movie because it keeps you on your toes but this film isn’t for faint-of-heart.

For all the girls who want a sweet story line, a bare Channing Tatum, and chemistry between two great actors, The Vow is for you.

The Vow, which opened in theaters Feb. 10, follows the story of Paige (Rachel McAdams) and Leo (Tatum), husband and wife who are madly in love. The two are driving back from a night at the movies through deep snow when their car gets rear-ended by a truck into a light pole.

Paige flies through the windshield head first. They both recover, but Paige loses every memory starting from college. The plot follows Leo’s attempt to make her fall in love with him again.

McAdams brings all of her charm to the screen and meshes perfectly with Tatum, who was out of his normal acting realm by playing a soulful artist rather than a hardened soldier.

Girls, be prepared to “aww” and potentially cry. But for those who want to see a cultured, well-produced film, stay away.

SONY PICTURES The writing falls short and the cheese factor is high. The visual effects for the car crash are breathtaking, but the rest of the film work is mediocre at best. This is a great chick-flick but not at the same level as The Notebook.

Red Tails movie flying high

By ELIJAH FLEWELLEN SNN Staff Writer

Red Tails, directed by Anthony Hemingway and produced by George Lucas, is a historic action flick about the legendary Tuskegee Airmen, the only black pilots allowed into the military in World War II and how they helped lead the United States to victory. This is an amazing film that has all the action, while giving you a look at history.

When the movie starts, the Tuskegee Airmen program is in danger of getting shut down and the “Red Tails” have to do something to save it. The movie, starring Cuba Gooding Jr., Terrance Howard and Ne-Yo, gives us an in-depth look at what the Tuskegee Airmen accomplished.

Big-timers such as President Barack Obama, who held a ceremony honoring the living airmen and a memorial for those who have passed, support and praise this inspirational film. With a strong backing like this, trust me, it’s not a film you want to miss.

Red Tails has torpedoes, missiles, frag grenades and plenty of high-flying drama that will have you on the edge of your seat.

20TH CENTURY FOX

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entertainment

W e d n e s d a y, F e b r u a r y 2 9 , 2 0 1 2

TREK:

To boldly go where no musical has gone before

By SYMONE BROWN SNN Staff Writer

Lakewood, dubbed “Hollywood High,” has many upcoming stars, from on the football field to behind a computer screen. Seniors Bernard Marger and Justin Gonzalez are stars of an intergalactic sort: Star Trek.

The thespians starred in TREK: An Intergalactic Spoof Musical presented by the ACCIO Actors at the downtown venue, Studio@620. Gonzalez took on the role of U.S.S. Enterprise pilot Hikaru Sulu. Marger portrayed an egotistical news anchor, Richard Richardson, who narrated the musical.

“It was blood, sweat and tears that culminated into four shows celebrating nerd glory,” says Marger.

On Feb. 2-4, theater and Star Trek lovers alike filled the tiny location for four shows.

“No two shows were the same. Every show was its own life, and the fun is finding out how each show ticked,” Marger says. “There is no better feeling than knowing you successALEX BRACKX | SNN fully put on a good show.”

The play was put on by ACCIO Actors, an organization Seniors Bernard Marger and Justin Gonzalez pose with the program from TREK: An Intergalactic comprised of high school actors, college thespians and arts pro- Spoof Musical. “My favorite part was hanging out with the crew and cast. They just have great gram graduates, founded by Katie Wilcox and Alicia Carillo. personalities and are really fun to work with,” Gonzalez said.

This nonprofit troupe is known for its kooky spoofs and parody productions, such as A Very Potter Musical.

“It started off with just a bunch of friends,” Gonzalez says, “but through word-ofmouth, it formed into a steady group of people.”

The TREK cast featured “colorful, loud and eccentric” actors, ranging in age from 15 to 25-years-old. Despite both Marger’s and Gonzalez’s missing the early stages of rehearsal due to prior acting gigs, Marger says he walked out of this experience with a lot of new friends.

Gonzalez, an original member of the troupe, says he enjoyed working with the cast the most. “My favorite part was hanging out with the cast and crew. They just have great personalities and are really fun to work with,” says Gonzalez.

There is talk of putting on more TREK shows and even having the show being performed at conventions. “It’s like we left it on a cliff hanger. I’m excited to see where the show will go,” Marger says, “and I will boldly go with it.”

The full show will be posted on Youtube in the future. But those who got a chance to see it think it was a hit.

Senior Robert Houttuin, who attended the show on opening night with a couple friends, says the show was creative, a little cliché, but hilarious. “Bernie and Justin had small parts but they really played them up,” says Houttuin.

Senior Alireza Parishani, who attended the opening night show, says though the show wasn’t perfect, it was still entertaining. “I liked that it had a lot of plot twists from the original series,” says Parishani.

Lakewood drama teacher Colleen Coughenour is an avid supporter of both students.

COURTESY OF P.L. CARRILLO PHOTOGRAPHY She says they are extremely talented and will go far. She also admires their perseverance.

Senior Justin Gonzalez performs in TREK: An Intergalatic Spoof Musical.

“I love how they have a passion and decided to go after it,” Coughenour says. “They Gonzalez played Leutenant Hikdru Sulu, Helmsman of the U.S.S. Enterprise, didn’t wait for an opportunity to come to them. They went out and got it.” portrayed by George Takei in the original Star Trek series.

TREK is only the beginning for the duo.

“My big breakout role was the Big Bad Wolf in first grade,” Marger says, with a laugh formed at Largo Cultural Center in community theater, festivals such as Sacred Heart and in his voice. comic book conventions like Khaotickon and Metrocon.

The pair met at Ridgecrest Elementary School. In the fifth grade, they starred in A Coming to high school, they realized it was more of a passion than a hobby. Gonzalez Christmas Carol. Gonzalez played Tiny Tim while Marger took on Scrooge. says he just wants to be a performer. “As long as I’m on stage, I’m okay,” he says.

Since then, they have dabbled in and out of theater.

Marger, who is a theater semifinalist in the Walker’s Rising Stars scholarship program, Marger starred in productions at summer camps, and has been in every Lakewood says he plans to pursue acting as a career. school play since freshman year. He is set to play Lenny in Lakewood’s spring play “I want to continue acting for the rest of my life,” Marger says, “I don’t know how I’m Rumors by Neil Simon. going to do it but I’m going to try.”

Gonzalez is also a dancer and singer. He has per-

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entertainment A game of CAT and mouse

By VICTORIA BISCHOFF SNN Staff Writer

LYNDON FITZGIBBON | SNN

Senior Kyla Kolb analyzes hair styles from the ‘80s for the upcoming production of Rumors. Kolb’s main job is hair design, but she also did make-up for the club’s 2010 production of Dracula.

Rumors to run at Lakewood

By BOBBIE WRIGHT and NIQUERIA HARRIS SNN Staff Writers

The drama team is gearing up for the spring production of Rumors by Neil Simon.

The play, set in the 1980’s, is about a wealthy couple and their friends. During the night of their anniversary party a mysterious crime leaves their guests wondering and spreading rumors about what they believed happened.

Drama teacher Colleen Coughenour said her team is researching the 1980s. “I don’t think people know how much work goes into a production,” said Coughenour.

That means the production team has to know what was in style and what was not as far as clothing and furniture. The set for Rumors is being rented from Clearwater High School, which did the play previously and bought the set for $1,200.

The crew will be putting its own twist on the rented set by painting it and adding their own decorations. In addition to decorating the set they will also be decorating the auditorium lobby to match the theme of the play.

The cast for the play will have 35-40 rehearsals. They must master the script and know their blocking. Blocking is how the actors move throughout the scene. If they happen to forget a line, it is stage manager Meghann Carson’s job to help them.

Carson, a senior at Lakewood, must queue the sound effects, which she said is the most difficult task.

“I have read the play,” said Carson. “I think it’s interesting and

After school 15 students meet in room T-111. Silently huddled over their keyboards they begin programming. These are the members of Lakewood High School’s Video Game Design Club.

Their goal: “Be creative and think about games you might want to program,” said senior president Kyla Kolb, who mostly helps people and monitors meetings. The idea of a programming club has been mentioned countless times in the past, but an interest meeting was never held until this year.

Students work on their games independently. “They talk about their ideas and share their experiences with each other,” said AP computer science teacher Melissa Heeren. Many students are looking for a career in programming.

“I’m looking for a way to make money that doesn’t suck,” said junior Jacob Greenburg.

Kolb is going to the University of South Florida and hoping to find a job in anything involving computers.

“My philosophy on clubs is that it should be student run. I’m just the supporting person,” said Heeren. The club meets every other Tuesday. Students usually start showing up right after school and meetings end around 3 p.m.

LYNDON FITZGIBBON | SNN

Seniors Kyla Kolb, Sofia Damos and Cassandra Owa plot hair and make-up designs for the women characters in Rumors.

humorous.”

The cast has 10 actors, including junior Amanda Dodge. Dodge is not a new face to drama- she has been in 10 plays, give or take.

So the hardest part for her, she says, is “memorizing the lines.”

“I think the most enjoyable part is all the people in drama club,” said Dodge.

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Rock ‘n’ rolling, running and raising money

By DIONNE SANCHEZ and TI’LISEA BARNES SNN Staff Writers

Lakewood guidance counselor Meredith Jones ran in the Rock ‘n’ Roll St. Pete Half Marathon on Feb.12, starting at Tropicana Field in downtown St. Petersburg at 7:30 a.m. Her team raised money for the Children’s Dream Fund, a nonprofit organization that helps fulfill the dreams of children with life-threatening illnesses.

“The race went really well but was very cold and windy; the cold weather made me run faster,” said Jones.

The event was filled with 8,000 people, music playing at every mile and to close it there was a performance from Flo Rida.

Jones, who set a personal record with her time, has been running for about five years and has been in a variety of marathons including the Disney Marathon, Women’s Running Magazine Half Marathon and the Gasparilla Half Marathon.

Her team, Rotary Rocks The Half, had 30 runners and walkers in the marathon and had a goal of raising $5,000. Instead the team ended up raising over $6,500.

Jones raised money at Lakewood by selling hearts that staff and students could

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buy and pin up on the bulletin board in her office. The Lakewood supporters raised $40 for Jones’ team, including $20 from Spanish teacher Linda Santiago.

Santiago said she contributed because it is an “awesome” cause.

“I believe that her cause was worthy because it was benefiting sick children,” she said.

Jones said her team hopes to brighten up the lives of three children: Lily, 3, Jeremy,10, and Blake who is 18 years old.

Lily, who has a brain tumor, hopes to go on a Disney cruise. Jeremy, who has cerebral palsy, hopes to take a ride in the Goodyear blimp. And Blake, who has bone cancer, hopes to go to the Olympics in London.

“Running 13.1 miles is nothing compared to what these children and their families are going through. The children face more pain and anguish than many adults go through in a lifetime and if I can help make these children smile and forget about their illnesses, treatment and pain for one day then it is well worth it!” said Jones.

Special to SNN

Guidance counselor Meredith Jones gives a thumbs up after the Rock ‘n’ Roll St. Pete Half Marathon on Feb. 12. Her team raised money for the Children’s Dream Fund.

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sports

A life saver

DANE MORRIS| SNN

Art teacher Jason Ganchou talks with Lakewood’s boy’s baseball team during practice on Feb. 22. Ganchou is the new assistant coach for the boys 2012 baseball season.

When art teacher Jayce Ganchou was still living in Toledo, he was driving on Anthony Wayne Trail with his friend on his way back from a Cleveland Indians game.

“There was a man driving (another) car. He was swerving all over. So we pulled off to the side.

He caught an edge and rolled,” said Ganchou.

The car rolled over the median, coming to a stop upright. “We pulled over and called 911. Then the engine caught fire.”

Ganchou and his friend ran over to help.

“I reached to pull him out, and the melting pieces of the airbag landed all over my wrist. I got burned pretty bad,” he said.

The two put a car mat under the driver and pulled him out. The man survived, thanks to Ganchou and his companion.

“After I moved down here … there was a letter from the driver of that car. He thanked me for saving his life and gave me $200 in gift cards,” Ganchou said.

The art of baseball

By OWEN DYCHES SNN Staff Writer

Art teacher Jayce Ganchou has a lot more in his past than drawing. He saved a man’s life and even played what was then Big 10 College baseball for a quarter. This is his story.

Born in Toledo, Ohio, Ganchou grew up a Detroit Tigers fan. When he was 7 years old, Ganchou attended a Tigers vs.

Red Sox game. After catching legend Carlton “Pudge” Fisk was done catching in the bullpen for the Sox, he tossed young Ganchou a ball. After Fisk hit a home run, Ganchou was hooked on the Sox. “When I got home, I took down all of my Tigers stuff off my wall in my room, and put the cut out Red Sox players names on the wall.”

Ganchou went on to attend Bowsher High School in Toledo, Ohio. He played baseball for all four years there, and then was invited to the draft. He was a last round pick by, guess who, the Red Sox. “They told me to go to college and

play. So I went to the school that recruited me the most, Indiana University. I tore my ACL ligament in my left knee, and I couldn’t play for a year. I had an option: be medically redshirted or transfer. So, I transferred to Columbus School of Art and Design, and got my Art Degree,” he said.

Ganchou played Independent League baseball for several teams, facing opponents from the famed Cape Cod League and in the Penn League. After his college term ended, he would play for these teams in the summer. Ganchou got his art education degree and started teaching in the Toledo Public School district. After the district cut all freshman sports, they tried to cut the fine arts. Ganchou and his fellow fine arts teachers tried for five years to keep the cut from happening.

“Then they started firing people in the fine arts department. I sensed that I could be fired, even though I had been teaching for 15 years. I had to move,” he said.

Ganchou’s parents live in Lehigh Acres, in the Fort Myers area. “They lived down here. I saw there were job openings in the Pinellas County schools district, so I went to interview. I was supposed to interview at four schools, Dixie Hollins, Tarpon Springs, East Lake and here at Lakewood.”

His first interview was here. “I walked in to the interview with Mr.Vicari. Within five minutes, he offered me the job. He told me ‘Call the other principal and tell him not to bother.’”

After he bought a house, he met with coach Cory Scott and received the assistant baseball coach’s job. Ganchou lives in Pinellas Park with his two boxers, Remy and Boggs, named after Red Sox legend Wade Boggs and Bruins legend Jerry Remy. He also has a built in batting cage in his garage.

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Jayce Ganchou swings a bat at baseball practice on Feb. 22.

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Up and coming freshmen

By NASTASSJA SIELCHAN and MARSELA SULKU SNN Staff Writers

From baseball to softball to track, the freshmen all-stars are taking over. SNN decided to interview the coaches and learn about their most promising players. Here they are:

Baseball

Freshman Jamaal Chaney has been playing baseball since elementary school.

Assistant Coach Jayce Ganchou says Chaney is one of the best freshmen on Lakewood’s baseball team. Chaney’s strengths include having a good arm, great range in the outfield and being able to run fast.

“It makes me feel accomplished,” Chaney said, when he learned Ganchou had chosen him as a top freshman. “I’m on a mission; nobody is going to stop me.”

Being a freshman on the baseball team is tough, especially since Lakewood doesn’t have a junior varsity team. Upperclassmen have more experience, so often freshmen don’t get to play as much.

The baseball team this year has 22 people, three being freshman. Ganchou decided to keep 22 kids on the team this year due to the fact that six of those players will be graduating this year.

Chaney said he isn’t intimidated by the upperclassmen, though. He says playing against upperclassmen and being on a team with boys more experienced than him doesn’t really faze him. It just pushes him to work harder and be as good ¬ or better – than the upperclassmen. “I will strive to be the best,” says Chaney.

Softball

Freshman softball player, Marisa Rivera has been on the fields since she was just 5 years old. Coach Haley Forsyth says Rivera has a good arm, good lateral movement, and she’s an aggressive batter. Forsyth said the hardest part of being a freshman on a team that’s mostly upperclassmen is not knowing what to expect.

When asked how it feels to be an up and coming freshman Rivera says, “It makes me feel like I can accomplish anything if I put my mind to it.”

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JESSICA THORNTON | SNN

Freshman Melissa Dones runs with a pole during practice on Feb. 16. This is Dones’ first year competing in the pole vault event, and she has already broken a school record. “Knowing that I am the only one out of all the history of Lakewood who has ever broken this record ... makes me feel amazing. I have left my mark,” said Dones

Track

Freshmen Dem’e Davis and Melissa Dones are the stand-out freshman on the track team, according to Coach Anthony Snead.

Davis’ and Dones’ work ethic, ability to make and accomplish goals and their trait of being naturally great runners are what makes them great, he said.

“Just being a naturally good runner doesn’t make them the stars of the team; their work ethic is what makes them greater than the rest,” said Snead.

Davis participates in long and high jump as well as 4 by 4 relay. She’s been running track since sixth grade. Davis says she wants to follow in her father’s footsteps, because he also went to Lakewood and ran track.

“Running against upperclassmen is scary, but it’s also encouraging,” said Davis. “I know I’ll be there someday.”

Dones participates in pole vaulting, 800-meters, hurdles and 4 by 8 relay. Dones ran track all through middle school. In fact, Dones and Davis were co-captains of the track team at John Hopkins Middle School in eighth grade.

“I don’t want to be a good runner with a negative attitude, but a good runner with a positive attitude,” said Dones.

BROOKE SKINNER | SNN

Freshman Dem’e Davis and Melissa Dones lean up against each other during track practice on Feb. 15. “We’ve been friends since fifth grade, been running track together since sixth and she’s one of my best friends,” said Davis.

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Watts readies for the big leagues

By ALEXANDRA DORN and BRIAN DOZIER SNN Staff Writers

Strike 1, Strike 2, Strike 3….you’re out! Sophomore Mariah Watts has taken softball to the next level.

The 5’11 star pitcher on the Lakewood team recently verbally committed to the University of Wisconsin. There were multiple schools interested in her such as Houston University and University of Massachusetts, but in the end she chose Wisconsin.

“Being verbally committed means that you are committed to a college, but you can still visit other colleges if you change your mind, but it is highly unlikely. Verbals mean nothing until you sign as a senior; something can always happen before then,” said Watts.

Watts said she chose Wisconsin because of its journalism and mass communication

program, which is what she would like to major in. “After visiting with the coaches I felt like I was at home and cozy,” said Watts.

Watts started playing softball at the age of 8 and has been playing competitively since the age of 12. Watts said her dad has had a huge impact on her playing softball.

“He takes me out to practice and to work out, encourages me, and financially has supported me by paying for my lessons,” said Watts.

Preparing for a game is not as easy as most people think it would be. Watts starts preparing normally the day before by getting her mind set. Before the game she stretches, takes a lap, warms up her arm and throws long tosses.

“The team has helped her prepare for

the college level by having fun, not being as competitive as her travel ball team. It’s very low key, and she has more playing time,” said her coach on the Lakewood team, Haley Forsyth.

The reason Watts wanted to start playing softball is because her dad had her involved in multiple sports and when she saw her brothers playing T-ball she said she wanted to play. So her dad introduced her to softball. Watts likes playing softball for many reasons: its competitiveness, meeting new players, and traveling the world.

RACHELLE GADDY | SNN “Mariah is very talented, she’s been Future Wisconsin Badger sophomore playing softball since I’ve known her,” said Mariah Watts wears her Wisconsin teammate Rachelle Gaddy. shirt with pride on Feb. 10. Watts called Wisconsin’s softball head coach Yvette Healy and verbally committed on Feb. 4.

New flag football coaches have high hopes for teams

By TRACY JOHNSON and JALISSA JORDAN SNN Staff Writers

Winning has always been a trend for Coach Necole Tunsil, but now she’ll have to keep her wins on the basketball court.

Tunsil, who led Lakewood to a state flag football championship in 2006 and 2010, has resigned from coaching the sport. The last game she coached ended when Lakewood lost in a district match-up against Dixie Hollins in the 2011 post-season.

After all her success, who can possibly keep up the tradition?

For the last two years, Eric Ventura was the head coach for Boca Ciega High’s junior varsity flag football team and defensive coordinator for the varsity team. He had a combined record of 27-3. He also has coached recreational leagues and AAU flag football for seven years.

Ventura received a call about coaching the Lakewood varsity flag football team for the 2012 season.

“I pushed and I pushed to get this job,” said Ventura, who was eventually hired. His expectations remain the same for the team. “I’m a big believer, and hard work pays off.”

Syniah Snell said Ventura is going to make a difference. “He’s taking us to states.”

Ericka Murphy said Ventura is a good coach and has good expectations. “I expect to go to states, I expect to beat Dixie, I expect the score to be 64-0. I want to blow them out,” said Murphy.

Tunsil also coached the junior varsity squad, which was also very successful in winning. Tunsil approached long time basketball player, now assistant coach for the Lady Spartans, Coach Ivana Soberal about the position.

“I said yeah, it should be fun,” said Soberal.

JALISSA JORDAN | SNN

Flag football coach Eric Ventura trains the girls flag football team on Feb. 6 on Lakewood’s football field. Ventura took over for long time coach Necole Tunsil who wanted to take a break from coaching flag football this year. “I pushed and I pushed to get this job,” said Ventura.

Soberal played flag football at Willington High School in Palm Beach, Florida. “I’m very patient about flag football

and have high expectations for the team this year,” she said. “It provides me a chance to reach out to the girls.”

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ABOVE: Junior Chavez Davis fishes for tadpoles and crayfish at the outdoor classroom on Feb. 3 AMSET teacher Brandy Noonan’s water resources III class is making environmental fish tanks.

LEFT: Juniors Alexandria Thomas, Chavez Davis, Allen Haney and Clayton Jett and examine and compare their home-made fish tanks.

AMSET

QUATIC ANAGEMENT YSTEMS and NVIRONMENTAL ECHONOLOGIES

By BOB CAMEL, CEDRIC WHITLEY and JOEL GRANT SNN Staff Writers

Crayfish, tadpoles and goldfish. Ferns and impatiens. Students in one of Brandy Noonan’s water resources classes used all of these to build aquaponics tanks on a recent day in February.

Water resources III students made the tanks out of two-liter bottles on Feb. 3. These are called aquaponics tanks because they are self-sustaining aquaculture systems.

“The water is cleaned by the plants and then the plants also are going to feed the animals that are living in the tank on the second bottle,” said Noonan. “The plants are actually growing from the fish’s waste.”

Junior Allen Haney said the project is “awesome.”

“I learned that things should be balanced, even little things like the plants growing and the fish’s pee,” he said.

The students brought in the two bottles. They cut the top off one and the bottom off the other and joined them together. They planted the impatiens in there and then went to the outdoor classroom. At the outdoor classroom, they caught the crayfish, tadpoles and goldfish. They also collected the ferns.

“Each group did something different,” said junior Gage Burdick.

Burdick’s group experimented with drought conditions, planting a corn seed (monocot) and a lima bean (dicot) in their tank. Burdick said he got into the project because “it is very interesting to see the monocots and dicots grow.” Burdick learned that it seems that the monocot grows better in drought conditions.

Later on Feb. 23 they moved the smaller tanks to a larger tank.

Noonan said so far the students have been doing well with this lab.

“The students really get into their projects and take ownership for the living organisms in them – and get upset when they die.”

LEFT: AMSET teacher Brandy Noonan examines a plant for tadpoles and crayfish to put into her students aquapoinc fish tanks.

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RIGHT: Juniors Alexandria Thomas, front, and Jada Campbell-Blossom make their way down a slope to search for crayfish and tadpoles at the outdoor classroom.

Thomas and Campbell-Blossom are creating aquaponic fish tanks.

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Photos by Dem’e Davis | SNN