SNN May 2014 by JourneysIn Journalism

Lakewood High School - May 21, 2014

Vol. 5, No. 6

snntoday.pcsb.org

Four-TIme Columbia Scholastic Press Association Gold Medalist

See the best photos of 2013-14 . . . pages 12-13

KELSEA WALKER | SNN

Understanding the Gap . . . pages

6-7

Lakewood's Fears revealed

. . . page 11

Possible dress code changes

. . . page 4

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A word from

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By SCOTTY SCHENCK SNN Editor in Chief

JULIE SMITH-FRAZER | SNN

Every Sunday, rain or shine, from 1-6 p.m. the Deuces Live Market takes place. The open-air market, seen here on March 27, is on 22nd Street S in Midtown, St. Petersburg.

On the Web... Check out the following multimedia stories on the Spartan News Network’s web site. Go to snntoday. pcsb.org and click on multimedia. ● Senior profile - Check out a multimedia profile about Nick Levy by Kimberly McEntegart.

● Senior profile - Watch a multimedia profile on Lamia Hinton by Rachelle Gaddy. ● Robotics and engineering - Watch a multimedia video on Jason Ness’s robotics class by Alexis Peterson and Jade Smith. ● Arabian Nights - Relive prom in a slideshow of photos from Lakewood prom 2014 at the Tradewinds Island Resorts by Brandon Sweat and Kelsea Walker. ● Spring musical - Check out a slideshow of photos from the Drama Club's production of You're a Good Man, Charlie Brown by Tony Rengifo and Alexis Garcia.

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As we grow older, time seems to go so much faster, and it’s hard to believe that my tenure as editor in chief is coming to an end. Now that all our work for the year is finally done and school is drawing to a close, I hope either SNN or I have helped you in some small way. As a senior, I’ve learned many things that I would not take back for the world, though there are many things I would not relive. Regardless of where I have been, I’m very proud of where I am now. I hope that every one of you will work to be proud of yourselves, no matter who you are. Everyone who made this year possible deserves congratulations for his or her hard work. All of the years I’ve worked in journalism and the countless hours I’ve spent making the paper the best it could be would mean nothing if it weren’t for the love and support of my family, friends and of course, my fellow editors. It is now time pass the responsibilities and duties of the editors to those who will lead our paper next year. So now I’d like to introduce to you the new editors for the 2014-2015 school year: Editor in Chief (print): Zoe Blair-Andrews Editor in Chief (visual): Naudia McDaniel Opinion Editor: Maggie Verdino News Editor: Bobbie Wright Chief Photographer: Julie Smith-Frazer Photo Editor: Brandon Sweat Design Editor: Kahil Holmes Entertainment Editors: Quindon Nolton and Amber Bein Feature Editor: Caroline Dunning Fashion Editor: Nilaja King Copy Chief: Victoria Bischoff Copy Editors: Alexis Garcia and Haley Dolan Social Media Editor: Sarah Moore Sports Editor: Zackery Earle Web Editors: Ben Effiom and Angelica Sheppard I wish you all the best of luck. Take care of the paper for me and don’t miss your deadlines please.

Page 1 photo: Students dance to the beat of the Harlem Shake after the crowning of the 2014 prom king and queen on May 9th at the Tradewinds Island Grand Resort.

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Exams move to fit graduation date

By HALEY DOLAN and JALEN MIDDLETON SNN Staff Writers

Exams have been moved from the first week in June to the last week of May so students and teachers may attend graduation. This year graduation will take place for the first time in Tropicana Field on June 2 at 1:30 p.m. This is the earliest graduation date Lakewood has had in years – and senior s are greatly anticipating it. “The sooner the better,” senior Dhaneshia Shepherd said. Most students like the fact that all students and teachers now will be able to attend graduation due to the rearranged exam schedule. “I think it’s better because now our friends who are underclassman can come to our graduation. I was worried about some of my friends not being able to come and support me,” senior Naya Santiago said.

The last week of classes is this week, May 19-23, and exams are next week, May 27- 30. If anyone has any makeup exams to take or any makeup work to turn in, their last day will be June 4. Exams were originally moved back a week only for seniors so that they would be done before graduation, but then they were moved back for all students.

Some students believe the new dates for exams will be good. “Everyone should be able to see kids graduate and experience the moment of success they have gotten to, and now underclassman can see what they have to look forward to,” senior Jacoby Chambliss said. When students are finished with their exams for the day, they can be excused from campus if they have a note from their

parents. However, “once they leave they should not come back on school grounds even if they ride a bus home or there will be consequences,” assistant principal Peter Oberg said. Students who come to school for the last few days (June 2- June 5) who are not on campus for exam retakes or to turn in late work will have to stay in the auditorium until the final bell.

Librarian set to leave, library set to change By MARILYN PARKER SNN Staff Writer

Longtime librarian Andrea McDougal is leaving at the end of the school year as Lakewood plans on remaking the library into a “project center” this summer. Last summer, McDougal was told that there was a good chance she would not have a position next year. “I was told that my job was in a grey area. … It absolutely was a surprise to me,” she said. McDougal, however, almost immediately lined up an interview with Osceola Fundamental High School, and got a job there. She said she is looking forward to what is ahead. “I have a position as a library media specialist at Osceola” McDougal said. As far as Lakewood’s new librarian, McDougal thinks there may be a new job description as well because big changes are planned for the media center. The idea sparked because not enough students are checking books out of the library, Vicari said. “If you look at a lot of books we have in circulation, some of them haven’t been checked out in years,” he said. So the administration has taken a look at other schools that are experiencing the same problems, including the University of South Florida-St. Petersburg, which recently made changes to its library. “It’s time to really focus on what our kids need. So we’re looking at repurposing the library to make it a center to serve our

students,” Vicari said. Vicari and Oberg say they are putting the planning for the new media center into the hands of a student committee. “We want this for you. It’s not about us,” Vicari said. The main problem, Vicari said, is that much of the space in the media center isn’t being used. So instead of all books, the library could be broken into smaller sections. He said he is open to including a reading section, a mini-café and a community involvement section. English teacher Kristie Dowling said she spoke with Vicari about the plans to make sure that some type of reading section will still be in place. “I know that principal Vicari has promised me that one section in the library will be a reading section,” said Dowling. “The librarian does a lot more than just use books. She organizes the database and she helps kids with the database, and you need those articles and you need a research section of the library.” Freshman Hanna Brydon, who said she has gone through seven books in a week, said she thinks the new proposal for the library is a good one because it might bring in more people. “Most people don’t really want to go the library that much, because they think the library’s kind of boring,” Brydon said. Freshman Dylan Daughtry said he also

CARLOLLEE BRYAN | SNN

Librarian Andrea McDougal works in the media center making notices for overdue materials and unpaid fines on May 7. likes the idea for the changes. “If there’s going to be different sections, there are going to be different kids in those sections,” he said. In the meantime, the school needs to find a new person to run the new area. “I don’t know what the duties will be of the new librarian. I don’t believe it’s going to be the same as what my duties were,” McDougal said. Though she is somewhat saddened by leaving a school where she, and many of

her family members graduated from,where she worked for 27 years, McDougal said she is excited for her new position. “Yes, of course, I’ll miss the students and all my friends,” McDougal said. “I don’t say goodbye, I still live in the neighborhood. I’ll still see everybody, my friends, and I’ll still see the kids around town. After this many years, there’s no goodbye to Lakewood for me. I’m forever a Spartan.”

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Some changes to be made to dress code By DENYSHA DUNKLEY and NAIMA JACKSON SNN Staff Writers

Students next year will be able to wear navy blue khakis. This is the first change a dress code advisory committee has made, and there could be more. Assistant principal Harriett Davis is heading up the committee, which includes teachers, students and a community member. She said they will meet at least one more time this year to discuss further recommendations. Principal Bob Vicari said he has been receiving input from the committee, and there may be more leeway for students to wear different color jeans. “We will announce those (changes) in June and throughout the summer,” he said. Vicari said he believes the number of dress-code infractions has gone down this year since the stricter code was put in place. “Based on student and staff feedback I do think this has improved behavior at LHS,” Vicari said. The school instituted a modified dress code at the beginning of this school year. Students are only allowed to wear blue jeans or khaki pants or shorts, collared solid color polo shirts, oxford shirts or Lakewood t-shirts. Previously Vicari mentioned “down days” when students are allowed to be out of dress code. “We have had cold-weather-gear days, college shirt day and exceptions for trips and performances. Next year our student government group will plan some days as well,” Vicari said. Campus monitor John Darby said after a year he still thinks the modified dress code was a good idea.

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“It puts everyone on an equal playing field. You can’t tell the rich kids from the poor,” he said. “And you don’t have to deal with short skirts.” If students are found out of dress code, they are sent to the office. They get three chances before they are given a referral. At the beginning of the year on average Darby would catch about 15 students out of dress code per day. Now, he finds about five to seven a day. He said he hopes they keep the modified dress code next year. “It’s better. That way we can stay an A school,” he said. English teacher Angela Hawkins is all for it, because she thinks it’s easier for kids to concentrate on work rather than their clothes. “I think it went pretty well; it was an easy transition,” she said. Senior Naya Santiago said that her wardrobe is completely different. “It really was a big change,” she said. “I still wear jeans with holes, but not that crazy.” Junior Reggie Harris said he doesn’t want the dress code next year, but if it’s still around one thing he would change is allowing students to wear gym shorts. English teacher Elizabeth Halstead also thinks the dress code is going to stay. However, one of the problems, she said, is that some kids purposely come to school out of dress code “just so they could be in IC all day.” “At first I was against it, but on that first day of school I saw all the students dressed professional and found it really great,” Halstead said. But, she added: “I would hate it if I was your age, too.”

SCOTTY SCHENCK | SNN

The Dell Venue 11 is the tablet that each student in the Center for Advanced Technologies will receive in August.

Tech magnet to get tablets If this pilot program is successful, it could spread to other public schools in Pinellas County. By SCOTTY SCHENCK SNN Staff Writer

Boxes began to stack up in T111 on April 30. Almost a year of work to secure the funding for tablets had finally paid off. Network administrator Louis Zulli said every student in the Center for Advanced Technologies will carry a Dell Venue 11 next year to school and home. “It got to the point where it had taken so long, I’m just glad it’s done. … Now the teachers have to provide the resources and the materials to go along with the device,” said Zulli, who had been working to convince the school system to purchase tablets for every CAT student since the beginning of the year. The Pinellas County School district paid the cost of the tablets. Since each tablet is priced at $400, the 400 tablets cost about $160,000 with a school discount from Dell. The district also paid for a keyboard cover and stylus for each of the tablets. The tablets will come with several programs, including Microsoft Office 2013, Visual Studio and Logger Pro. Now, Zulli and the net assistants will work to prepare all 400 of the tablets before school begins next year. If this pilot tablet program proves successful, it could be extended to other public schools and programs in Pinellas County. Zulli said he believes the program will work if 90 percent of the CAT faculty is on-board. Math teacher Lisa Alcott said in her class she could use the tablets to have

students take practice quizzes and End-OfCourse exam review. “Having the tablets means they have an instant reference,” said Alcott, who explained that the netbooks her classes have now are too slow for most online activities. She said that savvy students would be able to take notes on the tablet, but others students may still prefer to use the “paper and pencil” method. The only cost to the students will be for insurance, under a one-, two-, three- or four-year plan that covers the cost of replacement. The most students should have to pay is about $19 a year, Zulli said. Zulli and his assistants looked at six other tablets before they picked the Venue. Senior Chris Woodle test drove each tablet and helped make the final decision. He said his decision was based on the fact that the Venue 11 is responsive and students would be able to take written notes using the stylus, a help to those who do not want to type out notes. “It was the best suited as an all-around device,” Woodle said. “(Students) should not feel limited with what they can do on the device.” Students who will be receiving the devices next year are also excited. “It allows us to have more resources,” freshman David Shimshoni said. “I know a great number of students don’t have (Microsoft Office) at home.”

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Yellow Eckerd bikes come ready for use

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Every six weeks students in the Center for Journalism and Multimedia take field trips to sites in the Lakewood community, reporting on stories and taking photos and video. Enjoy our fifth installment on this page featuring yellow bikes at Eckerd College and the restoration of Maximo Park.

By JULIE CHRISTIANSEN and ANTHONY NIEMEIER SNN Staff Writers

A visitor to the Eckerd College campus would notice bright yellow bicycles scattered around in different areas. This is because of an Eckerd program that allows anyone on campus to use any of the four different kinds of bikes the school has to offer, providing those on campus a quick way to get around. “It’s another way to show Eckerd believes in an environmentally friendly community and pedestrian friendly campus,” said Weston E. Babelay, assistant director of campus activities. In spring 2004 Dean James Annarelli and Babelay, the campus activity assistant director, created the “yellow bike” system. Each semester the school starts off with about 100-125 bikes around campus. But with theft and vandalism they have to keep replacing them with new ones. On a $30,000 budget each year, according to Babelay, the school orders 30-50 bikes per semester depending on how many bikes are missing. If the bikes have minimal damage and can be repaired, the bikes are to be left upside down and Eckerd’s bike repair team - or bike EMT’s - are trained to repair them. Eckerd loses about 100 bikes per semester, and EMT’s work seven days a week in two-hour shifts. People who use the bikes are able to ride them all day with no time limit. Eckerd student Ross Busch said the yellow bike program is very convenient. “I appreciate it greatly. Sometimes (I) over-estimate how fast I can walk,” said Busch, who uses the yellow bikes on a daily basis. Not only are the bikes useful for the students', professors can use the bikes as well. Dr. Ronald K. Porter was a student at Eckerd in 2004 when the bike program began. Now he and other professors use the bikes every day. “It’s a fantastic program and I think it needs to be replicated in many different locations,” he said.

JIMMY FAULKS | SNN

Eckerd College student Michelle Breault rides a yellow bike across the college campus on March 21. Different types of bikes are provided by the school, free of charge to students so they may get around campus.

Maximo Park cleans up its act By KEYONT’E HOWARD and MATTHEW BISCHOFF SNN Staff Writers

For years it’s been a mark on south St. Petersburg – a smudge on the city’s history. But, like all criminals or drug addicts, things can reform. Maximo Park is a prime example of just that. The city was given a grant to clean the notorious Maximo Park and restore it to its former glory. “We had criminal activity and things of that nature in the park,” St. Petersburg park operations manager Mike Vineyard said. Once a place used for prostitution, drug deals and other nefarious purposes, the park now has a disc golf course, a place for picnicking, boat ramps and a playground. Ever-growing in popularity, disc golf is a game where the objective is to throw a disc into metal baskets, over the span of 18 holes, much like normal golf. Many come to Maximo Park to play disc golf, to improve their health, accuracy or to have fun. Lakewood alumnus Jeff Albright said he comes out to play at least one day a week. “I’ve been playing since I was in ninth grade, (when) my PE teacher taught me,” Albright said.

Another visitor to Maximo Park is Jeff Moates. Moates is an archeologist at the University of South Florida, and has been for 10 years. Moates said Maximo Park got its name from Antonio Maximo Hernandez. A mound was found by archeologists in 1897. Moates said Native Americans lived at the location for nearly 4,000 years. He also said scientists have found many different types of artifacts, ranging from stone tools, food and shell hammers. “The mound tells us a lot about how the native people ate, worked and lived,” Moates said. The Maximo Park renovation cost $751,034 and was paid for by the city. In addition, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission gave the city a $200,000 grant to pay for the new boat ramps. The construction began Sept. 10, 2012, and finished about a year ago. “We developed the master plan and that brought us to where we are today,” Vineyard said.

RANAIYA NELSON | SNN

Sunshine beams down on Maximo Park beach on March 21. Maximo Park got its name from Antonio Maximo Hernandez. Native Americans lived at the location for nearly 4,000 years.

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Bridging the 'gap'

The achievement gap, the racial separation in academic achievement, is prevalent in schools across the nation and can be seen in standardized tests and graduation rates. By ZOE BLAIR-ANDREWS SNN Staff Writer

There are some students who teachers begin to identify at a young age as potential would give up on their education. … I didn’t let that stop me from getting my education,” drop outs. For whatever reason, it is predicted that these students will not walk across the Peterson said. stage at high school graduation. Peterson said she didn’t always feel motivated by her teachers. “It felt like certain Harry Glover, now a teacher at Lakewood High School with a master’s degree, said he students, even myself, weren’t capable of pursuing anything because even teachers were was labeled as one of these “at-risk” students in high school. Because he was considered willing to give up on them. They’re getting paid to teach you, but as soon as you do a potential drop-out, a label he overcame, he now strives even more to motivate his own something wrong they’re willing to give up at any second so you’re left to teach yourself students. basically.” “I decided I was going to make it one of my passions to assist those students who are Peterson is enrolled in a class at Lakewood called credit recovery. Students are put also labeled at risk and let them know that … you do have potential and you don’t have to in this class because they are behind in something they need to graduate such as missing be at risk,” he said. credits or a needing to increase their Glover teaches the African-AmerGPA. Credit recovery teacher Emily ican history class at Lakewood and is Thompson hopes to encourage the currently working on his dissertation kids in her class to succeed. about the achievement gap. “These kids have been beat down The achievement gap, prevalent since elementary school. You treat in schools nationwide, is the differthem with respect, give them hope,” ence in academic performance among she said. Thompson said that she has black, white and other ethnicities. The raised kids with .5 GPA’s to 2.0s. achievement gap shows up in grades, Even though Thompson witnesses standardized-test scores, course selecsuccess in her students, she still sees tion, dropout rates and college complethe achievement gap in her everyday tion rates. work. By the time students enter high "It's real, it's here, we just got school, the gap is already large in the to figure out what we need to do as state, county and at Lakewood. In teachers to help these students get fact, there is a 63 percent gap between back on track," Thompson said. white and black freshmen who passs People attribute this gap to varithe FCAT at Lakewood. (See graphs on ous causes. page 7). “I think it has stemmed back Different theories have been prosince the times of slavery when posed for the cause of this achievement African Americans weren’t able to gap. Some attribute the gap to a houseget educated because it was against hold that doesn’t encourage education. the law in most states, especially the Some believe teachers aren’t doing southern states,” Glover said. everything they can, and some believe However, as Glover points out, it it’s up to the students to overcome their isn’t always easy to make up for lost SCOTTY SCHENCK | SNN time. He said once you finally adsituation and be motivated. As a teacher, Glover sees that some- African-American studies teacher Harry Glover speaks to his class on May 15. They dress the issue, the root of the problem times students are misunderstood. “What were discussing issues and preparing for their final exam, which is to create biogra- becomes clear. “(You) see what haphappens ... is you see the students that get phies of famous African-Americans. pens when you’ve held a race down for pulled for behavior issues. … It’s not that so long and then you turn around and they’re misbehaving, it’s just that’s their you attempt to educate them,” he said. outlet of saying ‘look, I don‘t know what I’m doing, I need help’,” he said. Some students also don’t have the motivation at home to succeed academically, princiGlover knows this type of student all too well, having been one himself in school. He pal Bob Vicari said. could tell he was one of the “at risk” students by the number of discipline issues he had in “There are so many factors, it’s hard to determine. But a big factor is the education school. “In my particular case it was the teacher’s unwillingness of wanting to help me. and success of your parents so it’s kind of like a self-fulfilling thing. If your parents have So I said okay so you’re not going to help me, so then I’m going to distract your class.” a high school education, a college education and they’ve been successful academically, Once a student gets labeled as a troublemaker or even a potential drop out, they often then there is more support at home. I mean obviously someone could steer you toward don’t feel encouraged to achieve in school. college if they’ve had that experience themselves, but if they haven’t had those experiLakewood senior Alex Peterson was one of these students. ences then it’s hard to direct you,” he said. “There are always some teachers, they just give up. They give up on the students Lakewood senior Marilyn Parker agrees that the home environment is important for maybe because the students aren’t acting in a well-mannered behavior, and that kind of educational success. “It starts at home first of all. …If you start your child off setting did something to me. Because a student won’t act right, they them back, you aren’t going to be able to advance,” she said.

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Parker is a successful student at Lakewood. She is the marching band president, Dynasty Dolls captain, dual enrolled student and has received two scholarships. Parker will be attending North Carolina A&T State University where she will be studying broadcast journalism. She said that she grew up in a household that valued education. “I came up in a very strict household, but it ultimately made me better. I knew that they wanted something for me, which helped me develop the mindset that I have to want something for me if I want to get anything accomplished,” she said. Even though Parker has had achievements academically, she still sees the achievement gap as an issue that people need to discuss. “I think it’s a problem because not enough people are acknowledging it. If you ask African American students today what the achievement gap is they won’t be able to answer it,” she said. Parker attended a Bridging the Gap summit put together by the Pinellas County School district in the fall. This summit was organized to discuss possible strategies of attacking the achievement gap. “You can have a summit every month but if no one wants to stand up and take action, the gap is just going to get wider and wider,” Parker said. Pinellas County Schools superintendent Michael Grego put the Bridging the Gap summit together because he sees the achievement gap as an issue we need to address. “Does it still exist? Yeah, we just have to roll up our sleeves and work on it,” he said. Grego said one important factor in closing the achievement gap is allowing students to spend more time in the classroom. “Time is our constant, and it shouldn’t be, it can’t be, time has to be a MARIAH WATTS | SNN variable,” he said. Between expanding the learning day in some struggling schools and organizing a summer school program called Summer Bridge, Grego hopes increased time will translate to increased achievement. Last summer, the Summer Bridge program involved just fewer than 900 students and this year there are already more than 900 students registered. Along with increasing time in the classroom, Grego believes it’s important for students to motivate themselves. “The teachers can only do so much, the administration can only do so much, the parents can only do so much, the community can only do so much,” Grego said. “If you’re not owning your education, I don’t care what we do, it doesn’t matter.” Despite the large gap in freshmen FCAT scores, Lakewood’s African-American graduation rate is relatively high compared to the other schools in the county. Lakewood has the second highest number of African American students in the county and graduates those students at a 75 percent rate. “The fact that we’re graduating students at a (75) percent rate is just impressive, it’s amazing,” Vicari said. Even though Lakewood is doing relatively well, people still feel like the achievement gap is something that needs more work. “I think it’s a problem that a lot of people tend to ignore because of the work that has to go into it, it’s not easy…that’s why it’s a collaborative effort,” said Lakewood guidance counselor Veronica Pruitt. Not only will closing the achievement gap take effort, but it will also take time. “This is not going to be fixed overnight, this is going to be an ongoing problem until we can all come together,” Pruitt said. Glover, the Lakewood teacher who struggled himself as a student, agrees that coming together and discussing the problem is important, even though it’s difficult. “I think that we need to continue to strive to try to close it, the only thing is that it’s a very delicate issue,” he said. “Because when you start discussing the achievement gap, race always comes into play and unfortunately race and racism is still a sensitive subject here.”

Check out the full press conference with Michael Grego at snntoday.pcsb.org

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'I'm the last-minute call guy' Music teacher Jacob Merrett takes on a lot of reponsibility, sponsoring numerous activities and teaching many different subjects. Throughout the year, Merrett has added and subtracted to his things-to-do list, as he is beginning to find a balance. "I think that I'm starting to find a good medium," he said. By CAROLINE DUNNING SNN Staff Writer

Music teacher Jacob Merrett is Lakewood’s keep the drama program alive.” Recent“yes” man. He can never say no. Whether it be ly, he helped students produce the first sponsoring the drama club or simply accommusical at Lakewood in years, You’re A panying students to scholarship competitions, Good Man, Charlie Brown. Merrett is always busy. At rehearsals, student actors gathered “That’s sort of who I am. I’m the lasttogether and practiced the songs for the minute call guy. … I usually say yes because show. Students were constantly smilI know what it’s like to be on the other side ing and laughing together, making for a of that, to need somebody to do that for the more interesting rehearsal. program,” he said. “Does anybody have that sheet or a Merrett teaches guitar, chorus, AP music copy of that sheet that says what we are theory, musical theatre, orchestra and keygoing to be doing today?” Merrett asked boarding. In addition, he sponsors the National the students at one rehearsal. Honor Society, the drama club, Spartones, Strings are plucked and chords are Tri-M Music Honor Society and leads the strummed as the guitar class works on jazz ensemble. He also is the choir master their music for the spring concert. Each and organist at St. Mary’s Church in Tampa, day, the guitarists retrieve their guitars is currently in college getting his master’s in as well as a music stand from the guitar education leadership and has an extra job. And room and work to learn their songs. Merhe still has to organize all concerts hosted at rett instructs toward the beginning but Lakewood, along with sometimes accompanyas the class goes on, the students work ing choirs at other schools on piano. among themselves. “All right, take your “Every day and on the weekends he’s guitar and flip it into your lap,” Merrett responsible for so many things,” said junior said. Paul Santora, Merrett’s student and a young Merrett’s biggest difficulty in balanccomposer. “It’s crazy.” ing all of his activities is traveling from Merrett, who grew up in Jacksonville, came one commitment to another, since they to Lakewood three years ago right out of colare far away from each other. lege. He received a bachelor’s in music educa“I think that I’m starting to find a tion from Florida State University and a degree good medium. … I do think that I’m in piano pedagogy, meaning the study of starting to find a good balance,” said. playing or teaching piano. He hopes to eventuMerrett, who is married and does not ally become an administrator or principal after have any children. about 10 years of teaching. “I worked four jobs in college in “You have to have a good idea of the addition to taking 21 credit hours per classroom to be an administrator,” Merrett said. semester. It’s a lot more than the normal “How else am I going to be effective as someamount, which is around 12, so I’m used ALGERNARD BROWN | SNN one who has to direct teachers day to day?” to doing a lot of different stuff,” Merrett Music teacher Jacob Merrett teaches his students how to play a song in Every day in his chorus class, Merrett said. “But the biggest difficulty is that guitar class on May 9. warms-up the singers with different drills. everything is far away.” Then, they practice songs that they are either Merrett has had so many things to do going to be performing in upcoming shows, such as Benedictus by Franz Schubert or that he has had to drop a few things. Amen So Be It by Natalie Sleeth, or are interested in learning, such as Unfaithful by “I used to go to every volleyball and basketball game to sing the national anthem, but Rihanna or Halo by Beyoncé. Students hear the melody, sung or played by Merrett, and because of all the extra stuff I have to do during the week, I don’t have time to do that then repeat it to the best of their ability. anymore,” Merrett said. “Put some soul into it,” Merrett instructs as students rehearse a song for the spring Merrett may struggle sometimes with the activities, but he is always ready to help concert. Lakewood. Merrett decided to take the position of drama club sponsor when former drama “(He’s a) music teacher extraordinaire; it’s unbelievable,” principal Bob Vicari said. teacher and sponsor Colleen Coughenour stepped down. Merrett said he wanted “to “Every time we need somebody to fill-in in some position … he’s always there for us.”

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Student composes his own music Paul Santora wrote a piece called Spartans March that was played publicly in February. By KAHIL HOLMES SNN Staff Writer

Junior Paul Santora has been playing guitar for almost nine years and is the only student at Lakewood High enrolled in guitar 4. Santora also is a self-taught piano player and is now learning clarinet. “I was only 8 years old when I started. My mom thought it was a good idea that I learn an instrument,” he said. “Thank God she did.” Now Santora is stepping it up and composing his own music. Recently, he wrote a piece called Spartans March for Lakewood’s guitar ensemble, the Strings of Sparta. The piece was played at a guitar festival at Blake High School in Tampa in February. NAUDIA MCDANIEL | SNN “Spartans March was the first piece I actually completed,” said Santora, who was Junior Paul Santora performs a guitar solo on April 3 in the Lakewood inspired to write the piece after hearing Florida State University’s march. auditorium during the first All-County guitar concert. "I was only 8 years old when “I heard FSU's march, and I was like, ‘That’s lame. I have to write something better,’” he said. I started. My mom thought it was a good idea that I learn an instrument," Santora He didn’t think the piece would actually turn out that great, but music teacher said. "Thank God she did." Jacob Merrett and the guitar ensemble thought it was. “I thought Paul’s piece was very neat and I’m not saying that because I’m his “Honestly, it was peer pressure,” said Santora. “Ryan (Rhodes) told me ‘You should teacher,” said Merrett. “What surprises me the most about Paul is his tenacity.” come to callbacks and try out for Schroeder.’” Sophomore Lazarre Lester plays in the guitar ensemble, Strings of Sparta, with SanSantora, who is enrolled in the AP Music Theory course at Lakewood, said he would tora. like to attend Juilliard in New York City and eventually write music for movies, TV shows “I thought Paul’s piece was amazing,” Lester said. and plays. Santora is currently trying to get his piece published in a guitar music book. “It’s awesome,” Santora said about writing music. “It keeps me interested in life.” Santora also took part in this year’s musical, You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown, playing the part of Schroeder, the character who plays the piano .

Struggling student turns it around and will graduate By TONY O’NEAL SNN Staff Writer

JULIE SMITH-FRAZIER | SNN

Senior Da'Quan Sutton stands in his cap and gown. Sutton will be graduating with his class this June.

Check out the multimedia video on Da'Quan Sutton by Atiera Hopkins at snntoday.pcsb.org.

Lakewood senior Da’Quan Sutton has struggled for years to stay in school and meet the graduation requirements. Sutton has sickle cell anemia, a disease that runs in his family. “Both of my parents have the sickle cell trait so I was born with it,” Sutton said. In addition, his two uncles, a brother and a sister carry the trait. Sickle cell anemia is a blood disorder that causes the red blood cells to change shape. The blood cells are no longer flexible and regularly shaped. This disease gets its name from an old farm tool known as a sickle. Some of the blood cells become sickle shaped and very stiff, and the blood clogs causing pain. Dealing with the blood disorder his entire life - planning for high school doctor’s appointments and dealing with the symptoms affecting him - has made it hard for Sutton to keep up with school. Sometimes the disorder has gotten the best of him. “Having sickle cell is a hassle,” Sutton said. Sutton’s sister, junior Dana Sutton, is closest to his age and is up next to graduate in the family. She says high school is very hard and stressful for anyone, but especially for her brother. “I’m concerned about Da’Quan because sometimes he likes to play a lot, and I don’t really see him doing his homework… so I wonder if he is going to graduate,” Dana Sutton said. Students need 24 credits and a passing score on the FCAT to

graduate. Sutton had two classes to recover, but recently finished one of those classes and has one less obstacle to overcome. So far, however, Sutton, has not been able to pass the FCAT. “Last time,” he said. “I fell asleep in it.” As an alternative, students can pass the reading portion of the ACT to replace the FCAT. Sutton took the ACT in April. “He’s struggling right now, but he’s really trying to get back on track and prepare himself for graduation,” said critical thinking teacher Emily Thompson, who has known Sutton for a little over two years. Many people are in his corner to push him to graduate despite his health problems. Everyone who was asked said, yes, they believe he can finish all requirements and graduate. In late April, Sutton finally got some good news. He scored a 20 on the reading ACT section to substitute for the FCAT. All his hard work had paid off and on April 30 he received his cap and gown. Now his mother, sister, teachers and friends will be able to have that moment of happiness as he walks across the stage in June. “It will be the best feeling I’ve ever had in my life,” said his mom, Rosalind Clayton.

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I Tried It: Taco Bell breakfast

By DAYLAN PERKINS and DAVID HOCK SNN Staff Writer

Many fast food restaurants, for years, have offered a breakfast menu alongside their daily menus, but as of late March, Taco Bell joined in on the breakfast train nationwide after testing its menu for half a year in California. The menu offers a fair amount of choices. They have waffle tacos ($1.99), A.M. Crunchwraps ($2.49), Cinnabon Delights (12-pack for $4.49), flatbread melts ($1), breakfast burritos ($2.49), A.M. grilled tacos ($1), hash browns ($1), coffee ($1.49), and

orange juice ($1.99) as the choices among the breakfast menu. As far as taste it’s all delicious and fairly priced, excluding the orange juice, which was overpriced for a small 10-ounce bottle. Our favorites from the menu had to be the Crunchwraps and waffle tacos. The Crunchwraps are decent sized and are filled with egg, cheese, a hash brown, a zesty jalapeno sauce and a meat of your choice - sausage, bacon or steak. The waffle taco is a delicious warm waffle with eggs, cheese and meat served with a package of syrup to add a sweet twist. The only bad

thing about the taco is that the egg can get overpowering and take away the full effect of the meat under it. The burritos were probably the least “wowing” thing on the menu. They were fairly predictable and not very innovative as far as their new menu goes. Despite the tasty choices, health-wise the Taco Bell breakfast menu is not helping anyone. There is no healthy or vegan alternatives on the menu, but honestly I’m not going for my health. There is no fresh fruit option or oatmeal-type creation, but I have never gone to a fast food place expecting a healthy well-balanced meal. Be smart when consuming because it isn’t a meal for someone looking to lose weight.

DAYLAN PERKINS | SNN

The service varies from Taco Bell to Taco Bell, but our experience at the one on 3401 Fifth Ave. N was a good one. The manager herself took our orders with enthusiasm and excitement, which made us feel more than welcomed. The staff was nice, fun to talk to and happy to be there. We returned there many times since for breakfast, and it is always fun.

Dating do's and don'ts BOYS: Every girl is different, but I think it’s safe to say we all

want the same things when it comes to guys and dating: a gentleman who is funny and knows how to make a girl smile. For some smooth operators it comes naturally, and for others not so much. So here, I provide a list of some Do’s and Don’ts to get your girl’s attention and keep it.

Do’s

* Approach her with respect and confidence, make her laugh; “Hey beautiful, are you religious? Cause you’re the answer to all my prayers.” Have swagger about yourself. * Watch for potential signs of flirtation, her body language will tell you whether she’s feeling you or not. * Call or text her randomly from time to time. Let her know she’s on your mind. * Build up a good conversation, don’t be boring. Ask her about herself; open-ended questions are good. “What good qualities do you look for in a guy?” * Have a hobby. When she asks about what you do in your spare time you want to have something to tell her. “I play football.” * * “I’m on the debate team.” “I’m leader of the Fancy Cheese Club.” Something you can brag about and earn some cool points. But don’t oversell yourself.

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Don’ts

* “Skee,” “pst” or “aye girl” at her. What does that even mean? That’s a quick way to get shut down. Stop it. * Ignore her while she’s talking. She’s going to notice you’re not even listening. Then she’ll complain, which is only making her talk longer. * Be thirsty. No means no. Simple as that. * Ask creepy, uncomfortable question. “How many times a day do you brush your teeth?” That’s a turn-off. Besides, who wants to know that on a first date anyway? * Get caught up talking about yourself and how many athletic offers you have. Being an athlete and having a hobby you’re good at is always a plus - until you let the game completely consume you. * Finally, don’t let her intimidate you. It’s okay to be nervous, but don’t let your nerves get the best of you. Keep calm, chill out and let the magic work itself.

GIRLS: Every man is the same, despite his personality and physical appearance. We all want the same things in a girl. For you young ladies who are brave enough to make the first move, I’m writing to tell you how to get a young man’s attention and keep it. To make it simple for you here’s a list of things helpful, and things that will put you behind in the game. NAUDIA MCDANIEL | SNN

Staff writers Tony O'Neal and Deme' Davis give you advice when approaching girls and boys.

Do’s

* Make yourself known; be in his line of vision at all times. Put yourself in situations where he has to talk to you. Be slightly annoying for a while. * Be flirtatious, use body language and that sweet little voice females use to act shy. * Point out what you have in common, and then build on a decent conversation - without talking too much. * Be confident about making the first move.

Don’ts

* Put yourself in a position where you have to talk about something you don’t know about - for examplea: LeBron James is not a quarterback for the New York Yankees. * Make the chase easy. Once you have established that he has some interest pull back and wait. * Dress too provocatively. That will make a young man want one thing - and it’s not to play patty-cake. * Flirt with more than one boy at a time. Anyone could be his friend and that would give you a bad reputation.

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What do Spartans fear? BY AMBER SEAY and NAADIRAH DAVIS SNN Staff Writers

They scatter everywhere in your kitchen, flying from wall to wall scaring you. They are small, fast and they can grow up to several inches long. Roaches: They’re the number one phobia among Lakewood High School students. “They just don’t look right. They are gross and disgusting like they don’t need to be in my room,” freshman Naomi Robinson said. According to dictionary.com, a phobia is “a persistent, irrational fear of a specific object, activity, or situation that leads to a compelling desire to avoid it.” SNN surveyed 256 students about their fears and found that they are most afraid of roaches even more, in fact, than death, which came in second. Then, in descending order, came public speaking, snakes, heights, scary movies, birds, lizards, needles, clowns and the dark. Freshman Ja’Cara Edwards said her big-

gest phobia was sharks. “I don’t go on the beach in the water because it’s like the Jaws theme song is playing in my head,” Edwards said. Sophomore Saivion Smith said his biggest phobia was feet. “Feet are digusting I just don’t like feet,” he said. “They are so weird; they are like another pair of hands.” And then there is sophomore Jazmyn Gale whose biggest phobia is being alone. “Being alone is scary, like being in the woods by yourself. What if you die alone by yourself? It’s scary to be alone, like it’s depressing. I’m scared of the dark. I always feel like someone is coming after me," she said. "I watch a lot of Snapped and CSI so I constantly feel like someone is coming after me like they are trying to rape or kill me. I run every time I see white vans.” Ilustrations by JAYCE GANCHOU

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Best of SNN 2013-14 Throughout the year, SNN photojournalists capture outstanding moments and unique views of the school and its student activities. Here are the picks of the best photos of the year as chosen by the SNN staff.

Performers break d Cancer Society to r

DAYLAN PERKINS | SNN

Guitars hang in Jacob Merrett's storage room. Merrett teaches guitar and other music classes.

Dew coats a spider web entangled in plants by the bleachers near the football field in January.

BRANDON SWEAT | SNN

Junior Dajah Curry runs past another player in the Powderpuff game during Homecoming Week in October 2013. Curry played on the juniors' team.

JULIE SMITH-FRAZER | SNN

RACHELLE GADDY | SNN

AMSET teacher James Kostka waters newly planted collards in October 2013. The garden was one of the many projects done during the school year.

Teacher Emily Thom Dec. 11 in the weig ing teacher Keri Ga ton as their physic

RACHELLE GADDY | SNN NAUDIA MCDANIEL | SNN

dance at Relay For Life on May 8. Relay For Life is an event sponsored by the American raise funds for cancer research.

Seniors Donterio Fowler, left, and James Swain get pumped up after a team stretch before the Mayor’s Cup game on Nov. 7, 2013. The Spartans went to the second round of states but didn’t bring home a win.

MIRIELE PAUL | SNN

Senior Devontae Persha rests after running at a cross country meet. Persha came in first place.

NAUDIA MCDANIEL | SNN

mpson lifts dumbbells while lunging on ght room. Thompson works out with readartland, with hall monitor Nate Washingcal trainer.

BRANDON SWEAT | SNN

Junior Atiera Hopkins waits for the results of the Music Performance Assessment. The marching band received an excellent.

RACHELLE GADDY | SNN

The sun peeks around the front office doors of Lakewood in August 2013.

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Treasured mementos

Story and photos by GISSELLE ZAYAS and LAUREN DEXTER

A memento is something near and dear to you. It has sentimental value, meaning and purpose. In this feature we interviewed some fellow students and teachers about their most prized possessions.

"My (volleyball) jersey is very important to me because it represents a passionate part in my life. It holds sentimental value. It represents when I played volleyball in college and all the friends I’ve made.” - Kayla Rodak, math teacher

“This is a Martin Committee trumpet and it is very near and dear to me, because it was played by Miles Davis and nobody makes it anymore.”- Michael Kernodle, band teacher

“This wheelchair is my memento because it’s how I get around, and I had it for four years so it’s very important to me.” - Brendan Garrison, junior

“This watch is my memento because my daddy gave it to me when he left after he divorced my mom.” - Alicia Velazquez, junior

“This is a Sega Genesis and it’s important to me because it was the first gaming system I got. ... Sometimes instead of playing the piano I would take a break and play Sonic.” - Jacob Merrett, music teacher

“This ring is very important to me because obviously it was my grandmother's plus the symbol represents my Irish heritage.” - Christina Lucas, science teacher

Program assists homeless students By CASSANDRA ALTIDOR and NAADIRAH DAVIS SNN Staff Writers

Senior Rhianna Alejo was in her bedroom one Saturday morning in November getting ready for a marching band performance when water began gushing from the ceiling. “It was literally raining inside,” she said. The water destroyed her whole apartment, and it was immediately condemned. Everything after a day or so had mold or mildew on it. Alejo lost most of her things, including clothes, furniture and beds. “Basically we lost everything, and then we had to reup,” Alejo said, meaning the family had to start over. Alejo’s predicament last fall was just the type of situation that the school district’s

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Homeless Education Assistance Team (HEAT) was designed for. HEAT’s mission is “to assist with the educational, social and family needs of homeless children and youth by coordinating communication and service among families, schools and communities.” From April 7-11 Lakewood High School and Palm Harbor University students took part in a HEAT campaign called “Resilient Not Silent.” The campaign encourages homeless students to speak up, stay in school and learn more about local, state and federal assistance available to them. At Lakewood students set up a table outside the lunch room to get students to speak up for the kids who are in need. They handed out green bracelets that said “Resilient

Not Silent.” “It opened my eyes that we have four students in the senior class that are homeless,” AVID teacher Linda Santiago said. According to the district, out of 101,000 kids who attend schools in Pinellas County this year, 2,071 are homeless. Alejo, the senior who lost her home when it was flooded, said she was “devastated” after she and her family were forced to split up. It wasn’t until March that they were able to reunite and live in the same home. “I really didn’t look down on myself I just kept my head up and prayed,” she said.

ANGELICA SHEPPARD | SNN

Senior Rhianna Alejo's apartment was flooded in November and she was homeless until March.

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Summer Fashion: Night & Day

Summer is the season of the year people are most excited for. It’s the time of year when teens can stay up late and have fun with friends and family. All year we’ve struggled with waking up at early hours and dealing with the outrageous dress code restrictions. Now, freedom to choose what to wear and what time to get up is right around the corner. If you’re having a fashion roadblock, however, here are a couple of ideas to inspire you.

ANGELICA SHEPPARD | SNN

NILAJA KING | SNN

ANGELICA SHEPPARD | SNN

Above, Caroline Dunning is wearing a loose, chic tee and matching graphic tights with black wedges. Above right, Nilaja King is wearing a maxi dress with an oversize jean jacket. Bottom right, Dunning is wear a floral printed dress with a loose graphic tee and cute sandals.

fashion

Above, Nilaja King is wearing a printed skater skirt with tights, an embroidered floral crop top and black heels. Above left, Caroline Dunning is wearing shorts a floral tank and sunglasses. Bottom left, King is wearing shorts a loose high-low tank, a thin cardigan and a straw fedora with sandals. ANGELICA SHEPPARD | SNN

RACHELLE GADDY | SNN

What you want, what you need, what you love By CAROLINE DUNNING SNN Staff Writer

Shopping can be a difficult and grueling task when you don’t know where to start. But wanelo.com knows just how to save your shopping spree. Wanelo.com has a variety of users that you can follow for a fashion feed of all of your favorite trends. A multitude of stores ranging from Hollister to Urban Outfitters to Hot Topic share their pieces so that you

can favorite them and add them to your wish lists. The coolest items are on wanelo.com, including extravagant hair bows, bohemian nose rings, flower crowns and other randomly cute items. Just use the search bar to find what you are looking for and you’ll be a beauty queen. Another great feature is that you can

see other users’ lists and follow them, as well as major companies. Your feed will be filled with interesting pieces from many different stores. The prices are not super high so the chic fashion statements are affordable. The best part of wanelo.com is that when you select a piece, you can click on it and you'll be sent to the piece on the

original company’s website where you can easily buy it. Wanelo.com is a summer essential so that you don’t have to face a fashion fiasco. Check it out, make your account and surf through some the latest fashion trends.

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opinion

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Editorial

Lakewood's top 5 best and worst of 2013-2014 Every year has its highs and lows, and this year has been no exception. From dress code to jazz band, here’s a countdown of the best and worst of this school year.

Spartan News Network

BEST

WORST

1. Lakewood was given an A grade this year for 2012-2013, a feat that hasn’t been achieved in many years. Finding out that Lakewood was an A school started the year off with a stroke of positivity. This is due to the academic achievement of our students and the dedication of our students and administrators.

1. Dress Code has been a constant adjustment for most Lakewood students. A monotonous and boring style of dress was very unpopular among the students, but everyone has managed to acclimate. Many students were still held from class because of dress code violations

2. Spartan athletes make a big impact. The boys’ basketball team had everyone glued to their screens as they battled it out at the state championship. They played hard, but suffered an unfortunate loss to Armwood this year. The boys’ track team also saw success when they went to states this year, as did our football team, which went to state semifinals.

2. Language department cuts will go into effect next year, cutting Lakewood’s French classes completely and limiting the number of Spanish classes available. Considering the foreign language selections were already limited, this makes the situation even worse. 3. Lakewood is in need of repair. Lakewood hasn't seen major renovation since the addition of the CAT building over 20 years ago. With many Pinellas County high schools already having been repaired or rebuilt, Lakewood is due for an extreme makover.

3. Drama makes a comeback this year with great results at districts and states after losing their club sponsor, and most drama classes being eliminated. With multiple superior ratings, and an 4. The shooting at Lake Vista was a frightening event for Lakewood honorable mention and a Critic’s Choice win, Drama Club sur- students during last semester's exam week and may affect future secupassed expectations. This year’s production of You’re a Good rity measures for Lakewood. Man, Charlie Brown was Lakewood’s first musical in years. 5. Class of 2014 was shortchanged this year. With so many elements 4. Jazz band continued to impress this year with multiple apthat changed, seniors were directly affected: higher senior fees, the pearances at local events, including a triumphant sweep of first class to graduate at Tropicana Field and the introduction of the awards at this year’s Lakeside Jazz Festival, including Most dress code in their last year. Plus, the SAT revisions will come just Outstanding Jazz Ensemble. one year too late for those graduating this year. 5. AMSET has a few new editions this year, including new pets. AMSET’s new turkey has caused quite a stir, and AMSET students proved their resourcefulness this year with the addition of their vegetable garden.

- This editorial reflects the opinion of the SNN staff and was written by opinion editor NIA CUMBERLANDER.

Your Voice:

Do you think teachers should have guns in schools?

Staff Editor-in-Chief: Scotty Schenck News Chief: Zoe Blair-Andrews Design Chief: Kahil Holmes Multimedia Editor: Naudia McDaniel Photo Editor: Rachelle Gaddy Web Master: Mariah Watts Feature Editor: Bobbie Wright Opinion Editor: Nia Cumberlander Entertainment Editors: Quindon Nolton and Jakob Barker Fashion Editor: Nilaja King Copy Chief: Caroline Dunning Copy Editor: Victoria Bischoff

Code of Ethics 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.

For more news, go to the SNN web site: “I do not because with more guns around it’ll lead to more gun violence. Just because you have more guns on campus doesn’t make it safer.” - World History/Ethics teacher Jessica Heiser

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“Yes, because I would be able to protect the kids and if any wacko came on campus I’d be able to fight back, but I believe not all teachers should have guns, I see how some of them park in the morning. There should be a test to see if they’re capable to handle a gun.” - AMSET teacher James Kostka

“No, I don’t think they should because many things can go wrong. Students could get a hold of it, and sometimes teachers are having a bad day and you wouldn’t want them to be armed if they’re mad.” - Science teacher Christina Lucas

“No because a student could get a hold of the gun and not be trained and might not be able to control it.” - Senior Daniel Petrino

“Yes, because kids have no home training, and kids are dangerous.” - Freshman Kyrea Calloway

Quotes and photos gathered by RACHEL BROWN and KATIE VASTA

snntoday.pcsb.org

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opinion

Editorial

Standardized testing doesn't cut it By BOBBIE WRIGHT SNN Staff Writer

Listening to the drawn out, monotone speech the test prompter recited before I began my FCAT tests wasn’t the worst part of dealing with the FCAT. The worst part was how this test would decide the fate of my high school career. Each time after taking the FCAT in seventh and 10th grade I was placed in intensive reading classes. But being put in those classes had nothing to do with how I scored, and everything to do with the county’s incompetence. On seventh grade FCAT I had scored exceedingly well, but unfortunately after meeting with my counselor, my frustrated mother finally got this response: Sorry, we have lost your child’s test. That really opened my eyes to whom and what I was dealing with as a student. Not only had they lost my test, they threw me in an intensive reading class, assuming I had

a low score. Why not put me in a traditional English class at least? Something needs to change and it starts with having a handle on who is who when students sit down for the FCAT. There should be no complications when it comes to entering in the code that goes along with each individual person, but unfortunately we still have a problem with some students taking other students' test. It’s not just me either. Many other students also have experienced some sort of hiccup when the staff is setting us up for the test, whether it’s not knowing where to go or having someone else accidently take either part of our test. This is what I assume happened to me during 2012-13 because this year, I got my class schedule on the first day only to be lead to an intensive reading class AGAIN. My mom had countless questions for me this time—asking if the test was hard for me or if I had trouble with my comprehension skills. I knew it was impossible for me to completely fail that

Escaping to IC

'MS = My Strength' By ALEXIS WILLIAMS SNN Staff Writer

I was only 9 years old so I didn’t know what it really was. The only word I heard was disease, and all I knew at the time was that diseases kill people. When my mom told me she had multiple sclerosis, I couldn’t do anything but cry. She’s all I really had. She was my best friend. She was there when I needed her. I couldn’t figure out how, of all the mommies I knew, why did mine have to have a disease? “Baby girl, you got nothing to worry about. It won’t kill me. Not now, okay?” she reassured me, wiping my tears away. After she explained what it was and what it could do I felt a little better, just a little bit. Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a disease that affects the nervous system: the brain, the spinal cord and the optic nerve. There is a protective layer over the nerves called myelin. A person who has MS has scars on that layer making the messages that travel from their brain to the rest of the body slow or “stuck.” Multiple means “many” and sclerosis means “scars.” That’s a simpler way to explain its meaning. In 2008 my mom went numb from the waist down within an eight-hour period. She also experienced some achiness and found it extremely hard to walk. The first hospital she went to claimed she had some kind of cancer but she went to another and got the real diagnosis. At 15-years-old I’m doing the best I can to keep my mom happy and stress-free. Stress can cause flare-ups, symptoms that happen throughout MS. Some of the symptoms are blurred vision, loss of balance, fatigue, numbness, achiness and the feeling of pins and needles all over - the feeling you get when your foot falls asleep. The symptom that makes my mom worry the most is the cognitive flare-up. It makes it hard for her to think or speak clearly. She compares the feeling to how some al-

test like they were saying. Nonetheless, my counselor wanted me in that class. In the end, I got out of it after signing a contract and promising to ace the make-up test a few weeks from then. My mom and counselor pressured me to study, but I didn’t have time to doubt myself and stress over that. So test day, I walked in, ready to trust my instinct. As a result, I got an above average score on my test this year and everyone was reassured that I could read. How nice. This probably won’t change in five years or even 10 but very little attention is being drawn to complications and how they are handled, which is the strangest thing of all. I mean, you hear a complaint here and there from kids about the “unnecessary” computerized system but that is pretty much it. I believe that solving this problem is in the hands of the parents, counselors and mostly, the students. Nothing happens if we don’t acknowledge these complications.

By RASHAD WILLIAMS SNN Staff Writer

SPECIAL TO SNN

zheimer patients feel, being able to have a specific thought but being unable to say or explain it clearly. “I fear not being able to take care of myself and my children. I fear my independence being stripped,” my mom, Kimberly Williams, said. Multiple sclerosis can also cause memory issues, emotional or personality changes and dizziness. Some people even suffer from blindness and deafness. Lupus and multiple sclerosis are very similar so some doctors get confused with the two and occasionally misdiagnose their patients. The scariest moment my mom has ever had throughout her trials with MS was going through the cognitive flare-up. She had severe stuttering and was unable to talk. She couldn’t collect her thoughts the way she wanted to. Simple things like pens or silverware, she couldn’t remember. She also had minor double vision. Within a matter of hours she lost the ability to see and speak clearly and was sent home from work because of it. “It was the beginning of a loss of independence,” my mom said. Despite the circumstances of what she goes through, my mom still stays strong and sets a standard for independent people everywhere. She hates being pitied and doesn’t show weakness. She takes her condition as a test of her will rather than a hindrance in her life. Her motto is “MS = My Strength.”

Walk into the Intervention Center (IC) any day and this is what you’ll see: a bunch of kids who are out of dress code sitting down not doing anything. Instead of learning in class, most have no work and they’re on their phones texting and listening to music. Most of the time IC is not a punishment for kids who are out of dress code; it’s an escape from doing work. In fact, kids sometimes take advantage of dress code. If they don’t want to go to class, they break the dress code and wear whatever they want so they can sit in IC. This means there are many students out of class just because of what they have on. This is absurd. I think the consequences of being out of dress code are unreasonable. For the first offense they put you in IC and give you a warning. For the second offense they give you IC and a one-hour detention; for the third, IC and a two-hour detention; for the fourth, IC and three hours; and for the fifth IC and ABS – when you go to school from 2-6 p.m. after the normal school day. Sitting out of class for so long is keeping some students from doing work and some are failing. Instead of kids sitting in IC for dress code, I think the administration should get rid of the dress code altogether. But as that probably won’t happen, an alternative would be to get shirts and pants donated – enough for every student who is returning to Lakewood next year. If students come to school out of dress code, give them a shirt or shorts in their size. That way they will stay in class and excel in learning.

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opinion

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The war on drugs wastes good money Instead of focusing solely on drug dealers and manufacturers, the war on drugs puts everyday, recreational users behind bars. By SCOTTY SCHENCK SNN Staff Writer

At the age of 24, Timothy Tyler heard that he would spend the rest of his life in prison, a sentence associated with rapists, murderers and terrorists. “Three Strikes,” a law that causes three “serious” crimes to result in a mandatory life sentence, forced the judge presiding over Tyler’s case to give him life in prison. He had never been to jail and only made $3,000 from selling LSD. This wasn’t the first time. Due to the war on drugs, nonviolent offenders will spend years in prison. The United Nations says of about 230 million users worldwide, 91.5 percent are not “problematic.” The war on drugs costs over $25 billion a year. The Department of Justice says it costs $25,000 to house each inmate annually, more than three times what is spent on a public school student in Florida. In 2009, according to the Bureau of Justice Statistics, about 185,000 Americans were in jail for drug possession alone, costing $5 billion annually. Harvard economist Jeffrey A. Miron said savings from legalizing drugs would total $41.3 billion a year, not even accounting for the costs of prisoners. If certain drugs were taxed, more money would be accrued. Marijuana would make $8.7 billion alone. This war is incredibly inefficient. There is a solution, however. Addictive and destructive drugs create drugs addicts, who need treatment, not prison time. Harder drugs should be decriminalized. The use and possession of personal amounts should not be felonies, but dealers and manufacturers of hard drugs should be brought to justice. There are risks with drugs that can scare away potential users, but the drugs are not studied because the Drug Enforcement Agency makes it impossible to experiment with Schedule I drugs on U.S. soil. Drugs that are not addictive can have medical benefits and cause minimal harm

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for those using them responsibly. Marijuana, mescaline, LSD and psilocybin are among drugs that should be legalized across the globe. Recreational use of such non-addictive substances should be the choice of an individual. Marijuana has been shown to stop seizures. LSD has been shown to treat alcoholism, addiction, depression, anxiety in terminal patients and cluster headaches. Psilocybin has helped cluster headaches and Obsessive Compulsive Disorder. Mescaline may have similar effects. Portugal had the highest HIV/AIDS rate in the European Union in the late 1990s. In 2001, Portugal decriminalized all drugs: everything from cocaine to marijuana is legal to possess in small quantities. The Beckley Foundation Drug Policy Programme said Portugal’s drug-related deaths were cut by 59 percent, and the CIA said Portugal now has the same HIV/ AIDS rate as the United States (.6 percent of the population). Portugal sends addicts to treatment centers, where they learn to control their addiction. Portugal attacks the root of drug abuse and shows that treatment of addicts and education, not prison, are the best weapons to fight drugs. Contrary to popular belief, not every user is a junkie searching for a bump from entitlement programs. Responsible users work for their habit and decriminalization would put fewer people in prison, meaning more people would be able to join the work force and support themselves legally. By taxing the drugs, the government would make enough money to target dealers, help addicts with treatment, and educate citizens on the abuse of dangerous and addictive drugs. Mandatory minimums are an awful policy and the war on drugs is a failure. It adds billions to the national debt and keeps people in prison. Drug makers and cartel members make more money than ever, while nonviolent drug users pay the price. Through decriminalization, taxation and education, we can begin a new fight on substance abuse.

Letters to the Editor Track and field needs more attention

Dear Editor, I am impressed with the cover of the paper; it caught my attention 100 percent. And as I went through it I was entertained by all the articles but the one that caught my eye was the sport section. I am pleased to see all the sport teams be recognized for their effort. However, I am lost for words on how the track and field team isn’t recognized for their amazing season. I believe the track team needs to be noticed a little more than just saying it on the intercom. We won districts I think that deserves a picture and an amazing story on the side of it. - Stevenson Choute, 10th grade

Students are just too immature

Dear Editor, I agree with you 100 percent on the whole scenario about the “C-wing” situation. Whoever came up with “twerking”? In my opinion, the term “twerking” corrupts the mind and disturbs educational purposes. Besides, I understand teenagers want to have fun, but we don’t go to school to “twerk.” We go to school to learn. Don’t get me started with cleaning up after oneself. Are we in kindergarten? NO! Consider the song “clean up, clean up, everybody does your share.” I’m glad C-wing has been shut down. Students aren’t mature enough to have that special privilege. - Deeasha Brown, 10th grade

French should stay

Dear Editor, I am horrified by the fact that French teacher Veronique Musengwa is getting cut. I have been taking French since freshman year. I was just going to take my two years of a language to go to a university. She is truly the nicest teacher on campus. I decided that I would finish out French just to have her class but now I can’t. I am pretty sure that if you asked every student that has or had her if she was one of their favorite teachers they all would say yes. I really think that it is unfair and that the school needs diversity in the language program. Why should we have only Spanish as an option? - Sonya Casey, 10th grade

All about the sweets

Dear Editor, I really liked the “New café manager has sweet tooth” article. I am really excited because I like sweets and new tasty items. I am glad the new cafeteria manager Kim Griffin has a cupcake business. Therefore, she would know the proper techniques and ingredients to make the perfect snacks. I think that this will cause an increase in snack sales with the new snacks. I really enjoyed reading this article. - Adrian Adams, 10th grade

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Dear Editor, I love how you edited the school newspaper in this edition. When I saw the front page, I was immediately intrigued. I saw that one of the stories was about different cultures and I decided to open up the newspaper. I liked how you took different people from different cultures and shared their stories. I love reading the different stories and experiences expressed by our fellow classmates from very different cultures. I now see how my classmates feel about their homes and cultures. It is interesting to see things like food from different countries. Thank you for sharing. - Jaime Gonzalez, 10th grade

Varsity needs to copy JV

Dear Editor, After reading your article on the flag football team, I noticed that the JV season has had a better season than the varsity. Whatever the JV squad is doing the varsity needs to look and copy their team chemistry. It seems that the varsity team’s chemistry needs some work. When the season first started, the team seemed to be doing well. I thought it could be another winning season like last year and I bet the varsity team thought the same thing. But with some harder competition they seem to come apart. I don’t know the cause or who the bad roots are but they need to work them out. They should also bring up their stars from JV and put them on varsity. That may help end their losing streak and build team chemistry before the postseason. - Joshua Page, 10th grade

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It's summertime, start listening

New season of telenovela is 'maid' in heaven

By QUINDON NOLTON SNN Staff Writer

We all know that summer is creeping up on us, and what better way to celebrate it than by having some good tunes to listen to. There are multiple artists who are hot right now and I will be giving you guys five in all genres. The first artist, Wavves, is in the indie rock genre. Wavves started out as a oneman band with Nathan Williams, a former Music Trader manager who had dropped out of college, lost his job and was living in his parents’ house. His early band, Fantastic Magic, included Heavy Hawaii frontman Matt Barajas. The music that Wavves creates makes you want to go to the beach with your friends and have a good time. An album I suggest is King of the Beach which was released on Aug. 3, 2010. The next two artists are in the hip-hop/ rap genre, which was started in the 1970s. The first artist, Casey Veggies, started playing with Odd Future around 2006-2007. With songs like pncintlofwgkta, All That, and The World, Veggies shows that there is still hope for rap/ hip-hop genre. The second artist is Mac Miller. Miller started out in 2007. He snaps, meaning he can rip a 16-bar - paper or freestyle - in a

entertainment

By NAUDIA MCDANIEL SNN Staff Writer

PEAS & CARROTS INTL.

minute. With his new mixtape Faces out, he shows his progression. The final two artists are part of the same genre - underground rap. Underground rap is a term for hip-hop music that’s not mainstream, meaning it’s out of the loop. The first underground artist, Kevin Pouya, is a great rapper who is from and resides in Miami. His recent tape, Stunna’, is fire in my opinion. Go download it off of DatPiff. The final artist, Chuck Inglish, started out in the group The Cool Kids and has recently been making hot beats and dope tracks altogether. His new tape Convertibles dropped on April 8, and all of his music is great. Don’t forget that summer is coming, and you should enjoy yourself. Go and seize the day, enjoy life and keep a peaceful mind. - and listen to some great music.

The first four episodes of Lifetime’s telenovela Devious Maids are just as spicy-hot as the first season. The series follows four Latina maids: Carmen Luna (Roselyn Sanchez), Rosie Falta (Dania Ramirez), Marisol Suarez (Ana Ortiz) and Zoila Diaz (Judy Reyes) and her daughter Valentina Diaz (Edy Ganem). All women are maids for rich Beverly Hills families. In season one, the series went out with a bang. Rosie and her affairs with her boss’s husband were uncovered, leaving her and her young son deported to Mexico. In addition, undercover maid Marisol discovered the murderer of Flora and freed her ABC STUDIOS son. In season two, Rosie is set to get married, and Valentina’s ex-boyfriend, Remi (Drew Van Acker), is on the verge of dying. This series, created by Marc Cherry and produced by Eva Longoria, appeals to viewers who may relate to Hispanic culture and enjoy a good mix of all genres, including romance, drama, ongoing mystery and a little bit of Latina spice. You might not like it, however, if you are offended by Hispanic stereotypes, which this show is based on. For me, though, the story outweighs the slightly negative label. This new season is one to look forward to, as season one has set the bar high.

Lunchtime is gaming time for these students By JAMES LEONARD and NOLAN ZONDERVAN SNN Staff Writers

Every day in art teacher Larry West’s room during lunch three students are clicking away on the computer keyboard, building houses, fighting mobs and hoping to survive the night. They are playing Minecraft. Up in A-wing, at around the same time, eight students are tapping and pushing buttons on their Nintendo 3DS devices, capturing creatures and battling trainers, trying to get a new gym badge. They are playing Pokemon. These students call themselves “Gameaholics” – people who spend the majority of their time playing video games. “I play video games because … they let me explore new worlds,” senior Bradley Gonzales said. Gonzales said Final Fantasy 7 and Halo are his favorites. “I play all around the day,” he said. Other students play games because they enjoy it with friends. “Video games are fun but better with friends. … Games are interesting alone but with friends it can be a better experience,” senior Henry Moench said.

Moench said he has played at the most 30 hours a week, and he spends $60 to $70 a month on games. According to the Entertainment Software Association, 58 percent of Americans play video games – and the majority of these people play during most of the day. According to Videogames.procon.org some benefits of gaming are improved reaction times, less depression and better vision. The cons are low grades in school, lack of sleep and health problems. Gaming all day is not healthy, but short sessions of gaming can be beneficial, according to research. The Entertainment Software Association says consumers spend about $14.8 billion a year buying games and $4.04 billion for the hardware. Ethics teacher Jessica Heiser said she JAKOB W. BARKER | SNN spends $150 a year for her games and spends Sophomore Thomas Zoellner plays Minecraft in art teacher Larry West’s about an hour during weekdays playing and room during lunch on May 15th. Many students in Lakewood play video more on the weekends. games for much of their free time, even at school. “I’m very loyal to my games,” said Heiser, who especially likes Skyrim and Civilization.

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Hollywood rehash of classic amazes By KEYONT'E HOWARD SNN Staff Writer

Excelsior, comic fans! Watch as The Amazing Spider-Man 2 swings past you toward the top of the box office. This superhero film is a spectacle brought to you by Mark Webb, who directed the first Amazing Spider-Man as well. Now many Marvel films have been unsuccessful in the past, such as: Daredevil (2003), Spiderman 3 (2007), Ghost Rider (2007) and Hulk (2003). I would warn you not to watch these super flops under any circumstances. This one, however, seems to hit it perfectly. This movie’s casting, music and effects are some I’ll remember until Avengers 2. The Amazing Spider-Man 2 takes place about a year after the first movie. The relationship between Gwen Stacy (Emma Stone) and Peter Parker (Andrew Garfield) is flourishing. Spider-Man saves nerdy Oscorp employee Max Dillon (Jamie Foxx) from being run over during a robbery, and Spidey manages to subdue the robber, Alexsei Sytsevich (Paul Giamatti). Even Harry Osborn

(Dane DeHaan), Peter’s childhood friend, is making an appearance after studying abroad. Soon Peter begins having an emotional battle with himself when he remembers a promise he made to Gwen’s father (watch the first movie for more detail). Overall, I liked this movie, especially how Garfield was able to bring Peter Parker’s comic book sarcasm and witty demeanor to life on the silver screen again. But Stone is the true powerhouse of the film, mainly because she’s able to handle the more emotional scenes, yet also much of Spidey’s one-liners and banter. The special effects show just how much we’ve progressed and what can go into storytelling nowadays, even more so with the entire superhero genre. Although, a major factor toward why I liked the movie was seeing Jamie Foxx as Max Dillon with a comb-over, a very funny addition to the film. I rate this film five "amazing" spiders out of five.

Action, beauty wrapped into one By CAROLINE DUNNING SNN Staff Writer

Most people say that the book is usually better than the movie, but that is not the case with Divergent. Both the movie and the book were phenomenal. With romance and action around every corner - not to mention that both LIONSGATE Shailene Woodley and Theo James are utterly swoon-worthy - Divergent was set to be a huge hit. In Divergent, directed by Neil Burger, there are five factions, each based on a unique trait that the members believe are the solution to a former war. There’s Amity, based on peace, Abnegation, based on selflessness, Candor, based on honesty, Erudite, based on intelligence, and Dauntless, based on bravery. When you turn 16 you take a test to see which faction best suits you, and the next day you choose which faction you will be a part of. Beatrice Prior’s (Shailene Woodley) test results yield Erudite, Dauntless and Abnegation. When someone has multiple results they are called Divergent. Prior is unique because no one else has received three results. The Erudite leader Jeanine Matthews (Kate Winslet) is attempting to kill all Divergents, so whatever faction Beatrice chooses she must be careful or she may be discovered and killed. When Beatrice chooses Dauntless and changes her name to Tris, she meets a trainer named Four (Theo James) who is mysterious and handsome and who will try to save her from Jeanine. Based on the book by Veronica Roth, the movie, Divergent, covers the book to a T, missing little to no details. A few key points were not focused on such as Will and Christina’s romance, but the movie runs smoothly without it. The movie is a good length and is visually appealing. You can follow the story well even if you have never read the book. I’m sure that the next two movie installments, Insurgent and Allegiant, will be just as great, if not better.

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COLUMBIA PICTURES

A horror movie minus the horror By ANGELICA SHEPPARD SNN Staff Writer

Oculus, which premiered in theaters on April 11, is about Kaylie Russell (Karen Gillan) a young woman who is convinced that an antique mirror is responsible for the death of her parents 11 years ago. Years after their deaths, Kaylie picks up her brother, Tim Russell (Brenton Thwaites), who has spent most of his life in a psychiatric hospital trying to make sense of what happened to his parents. Upon reuniting with her brother, Kaylie asks Tim if he remembers the promise they made to each other before he was taken away, and of course he does. While Tim was away Kaylie has been researching everything and anything about the mirror, finding out that the mirror’s previous owners have all died, including her parents. Using her position as an auction house employee, Kaylie tracks down the mirror and has it sent to the old family home, where she places it in a room with surveillance cameras in hopes to capture its powers. When they arrive at the house Tim attempts to convince Kaylie that the mirror is

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not responsible, that’s she’s lying to herself to escape the truth. The siblings argue for a moment until they find that all the cameras in the room have been moved. Tim finally accepts that the mirror has some power. Oculus which is based on a short film by Flanagan, Oculus: Chapter 3 – The Man with the Plan was an okay movie. It had its great parts and it had its not so great parts. I went to see this movie in hopes that I would be scared out of my mind. I was so excited; it was all I talked about. So when the movie ended, and I left the theatre with my friends, I couldn’t help but feel unsatisfied. I kept thinking, “I spent my money on this?” I am a horror movie lover, and Oculus didn’t meet my expectations at all; it didn’t live up to the hype. I honestly don’t know why it was rated R. I wouldn’t recommend this movie simply because it wasn’t scary. When you pay for a horror movie you expect to be scared, but I wasn’t - in fact I found myself laughing. Bottom line: If you love horror movies as much as I do, don’t waste your money. Just wait until it comes out on Netflix.

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Give anime a chance — you might be surprised By JAKOB W. BARKER SNN Staff Writer

Anime, literally just Japanese animation, is a medium that few people in America know much about, and even fewer watch. This has given rise to many misconceptions regarding anime, one of which is that every show is just like Dragon Ball Z, Naruto, Bleach or One Piece. However, this could not be further from the truth – anime has plenty of shows for any genre, not just action, and has such flexibility in terms of showcasing these genres and their plots that very few other mediums can hope to match. If you give anime a chance, you will see how good it can be. Anime covers practically every major genre that we are familiar with, and most have a deep library of shows to choose from, including romance (Clannad), sci-fi (Steins;Gate), action (Attack on Titan), tragedy (Puella Magi Madoka Magica), and comedy (Nichijou). A few genres, however – true horror and mystery in particular – have been neglected in anime, with only a couple (Higurashi no Naku Koro ni) filling the niche. Unfortunately, many anime have not been released or aired in America, and so there is no English voice acting for them. The only option to watch these anime would be to watch the original Japanese version with English subtitles. Now, this isn’t necessarily bad; in fact, often the original Japanese voice actors are better than their English counterparts. However, trying to watch shows in a different language and an unfamiliar format might be too much for some, driving them away from the genre. If you’re still interested, there are a few legal ways to watch anime. Crunchyroll is the obvious first choice, as it is a dedicated streaming site for anime. It has a wide range of shows to choose from, but only the subtitled versions. Hulu is another site that carries

a decent amount of anime, some of which are dubbed; however, the site is frustrating to use, some of the series are incomplete, and not all of the shows available are listed unless you specifically search for the show. Netflix also carries some anime, with both English and Japanese audio, but its selection is much smaller than either of the other two sites. You can also buy the shows released in America, and there are plenty of sites and stores to buy DVDs. For a good starting series, I recommend Attack on Titan, which is available on Crunchyroll and Netflix subtitled and airing on Cartoon Network at 11:30 p.m. in a dubbed version. It’s Crunchyroll a good starting point for those of you who want an action series that has at least a little depth. Those of you who prefer something a bit slower, however, might want to watch either the excellent romance Toradora! (available on Crunchyroll), the sci-fi/time travel-based Steins;Gate (available legally on YouTube from the Funimation YouTube account), or the tragedy/psychological show Puella Magi Madoka Magica (available on Crunchyroll and Netflix). Between these, you’re bound to find something you can really enjoy.

Schoolboy Q breaks the bank

Shutter Island mystery makes for good read

By AKELA HARRIS SNN Staff Writer

The man of the year, Schoolboy Q, released one of his best albums yet on Feb. 25, Oxymoron, a dedication album to his Los Angeles lifestyle. Schoolboy Q, whose real name is Quincy Hanley, appeared on BET’s 106 & Park to premiere the video for Collard Greens. TOP DAWG ENTERTAINMENT Collard Greens, Man of the Year and Break the Bank are three singles from the album that are still topping the charts. Collards Greens, featuring Kendrick Lamar, peaked at number 92 on the Billboard Hot 100 and number 36 on the United Kingdom’s R&B chart. Prescription/Oxymoron, two songs on one track, is another standout on the album. Prescription is about Schoolboy Q doing drugs and abusing them. He was addicted to the drug Oxycontin, a pill made with synthetic heroin. Q said it all started with one pill. The second part of the track, Oxymoron, is about Schoolboy Q selling these pills. Schoolboy Q in his younger days was a drug dealer making $80 a pill. Q decided to put his drug dealing and abusing days behind him and opened up to music. Another hit on Schoolboy Q’s album is Gangsta. In this song Schoolboy Q talks about his first firearm given to him by his grandmother. “My grandma showed me my first strap,” Q raps. “Gangbanger that street jack, always trying to figure where the beef at.” Oxymoron lets you into the mindset of a South Central-raised guy. Living in South Central Los Angeles can be very rough; many hard-core rappers such as Ice Cube, IceT, Dr.Dre and Kendrick Lamar have told their stories of the L.A streets through their music. Now Q tells his story of the L.A streets in his song Los Awesome, about his hometown. ”Pants sagging, rag dragging, rather gangbang with you,” Q says. Q tells you the raw details of his life before he was famous. The subject matter may be tough but he is one of the very few rappers who actually tells the truth in his songs. Listening to Oxymoron will have you loving Schoolboy Q for the amazing artist he is.

BY MYESHA HALL SNN Staff Writer

Shutter Island, by Dennis Lehane, is the most suspenseful yet creepy book that I have ever read. It’s about a man named Teddy Daniels and his new partner, Chuck Aule, who have been asked to come to Shutter Island to investigate and find a missing patient named Rachel Solando, a woman who is loose somewhere on the island. Solando was in a hospital for the criminally insane because she killed her children. They end up trying to solve an even deeper case that might have something to do with experimentation and surgeries. There is a saying in the book, “No one is going to escape Shutter Island,” because nothing at Ashecliffe Hospital is normal or what it looks like. The best thing about the book is the many cliffhangers. While reading the book I could never guess what would happen next. I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys suspenseful mysteries with a little bit of terror. Interestingly, author Lehane has a local conWILLIAM MORROW nection. He is an New York Times best-selling author and a graduate of Eckerd College. He has written several novels such as Mystic River and Gone Baby Gone, both of which were made into films, and spends his time between Boston and St. Petersburg.

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The Wright Awards BY OWEN DYCHES AND DERON PERSHA SNN Staff Writers

Football

BRANDON SWEAT | SNN

Isaiah Wynn, 12th grade

“I started playing in the ninth grade because of my brother. After he left, I found out I was good at it and I kept on doing it. I play offensive line, every position. I’m signed to University of Georgia. I go to college on June 2. After graduation we’re driving right up. I want to major in exercise and health science. I see myself in the future being a physical trainer and still playing football. I feel like I’m a great student athlete.”

Boys' Soccer

These awards, named after former Lakewood basketball coach Dan Wright, recognize the finest athletes Lakewood has to offer. The 2013-2014 award winners are ...

Baseball

BRANDON SWEAT | SNN

Michael Ferrandiz, 12th grade

“Baseball - all I can say is I love it. I’ve been playing it since I was 3 years old. My little league team I played for was Fossil Park baseball team; then I played for the Tampa Suns and the Hurricanes. Now, I play for Lakewood. I want to go to St. Johns River (State) College for baseball.”

Softball

ANGELICA SHEPPARD | SNN

Mariah Watts, 12th grade

“Softball is just a part of me. Without it, I don’t feel complete. Like a sibling, you can’t get rid of it. In the summer I’ll be competing with Team North Florida around the country … and then in August I’m headed off to the University of Wisconsin to compete on the collegiate level.”

Tennis

Girls' Soccer

Boys' Basketball

RACHELLE GADDY | SNN

Jacobi Boykins, 12th grade

After recovering from a broken neck last season, senior guard Jacobi Boykins earned First Team All-State, and Honorable Mention All-American. Coach Anthony Lawrence said he was impressed with his star player. “I’m very proud of Jacobi’s recovery from injury. He showed up big time this year. He is one of the best to ever come through Lakewood,” Lawrence said. Boykins will be playing at Louisiana Technical University next season.

Volleyball

QUINDON NOLTON | SNN

Elliot Sailes, 11th grade

Junior goalkeeper Elliot Sailes recorded 20 saves against teams like St. Petersburg High and 18 saves against Osceola and was named to the PCAC South County First Team. “It’s an honor to be named MVP for this season, and to see my hard work pay off; hopefully we’ll have a better season next year,” Sailes said.

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KRYSTAL MITCHELL | SNN

MARIAH WATTS | SNN

Melissa Dones, 11th grade Despite missing most of the last season with a torn ligament in her ankle, Dones was named to the PCAC South County First Team. “Soccer is one of the most important things in my life,” Dones said.

Keylee Gibbons, 9th grade

“It’s a game that requires a good thought process. I started playing tennis because my stepdad started me up at the age of 5. Now my whole family plays tennis. My stepdad and I both play in tournaments; I would say that I'm a pretty good player compared to the average player. I usually play at St. Pete Tennis Center and I plan on going to UF to play tennis in college.”

RACHELLE GADDY | SNN

Kimberly McEntegart, 12th grade

“She was not only our best setter, but our most experienced player,” coach Kayla Rodak said. McEntegart is going to St. Pete College but said she does not plan to play volleyball there. Still, she said, “I feel honored to be named MVP for this season, it’s nice to see my hard work pay off.”

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Swimming

sports

Diving Golf

Noah Harasz, 12th grade

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“My favorite event is the 200-freestyle race. I’m good at it - something about long distance. … It helps me catch up, because my starts are not all that good. I’m signed to Georgia Tech. I have been doing swim for 4-5 years. At first I hated it, but now I love it. Something about it gives me time to think.”

Wrestling

JULIE SMITH-FRAZER | SNN

Eden Hessinger, 10th grade

KRYSTAL MITCHELL | SNN

“I like to dive. I’m really good at it. I also do diving during the summer for a club so I pretty much dive year round. I was a gymnast which helped me with diving. I also watch the Olympics with my friends. My favorite Olympian is Kelci Bryant.”

Boys' Track

Calob Cook, 11th grade

“I’ve been playing for a couple of years. My dad forced me into golf. I see myself playing golf in the future because golf is timeless. I worked really hard this summer to get better so it’s nice to see that it paid off.”

Cross Country

Girls' Track

SHAYQUONE SEYMOUR | SNN

RACHELLE GADDY | SNN

Ryan Murch, 11th grade

Murch, who has been wrestling for two years, made it to the regional tournament this year, further than anyone else on the team. “There weren’t many people on the team this year, and we hope more come out next season,” Murch said.

Amire Smith, 12th grade

DE'QONTON DAVIS | SNN

Devontae Persha, 12th grade

Smith made it to the district finals in the fall, but had to drop out because of a back injury. “I worked hard and it’s a nice feeling to be named MVP, but it was pretty disappointing to have to drop out from an injury,” Smith said.

D’Asia Hobbs, 9th grade

Hobbs, a newcomer to the girls track team this year, runs the 800, the 4x8 and 4x4. At regionals she placed in the top eight for the high jump and the 4x8 “I’m surprised I was named, since I’m only in 9th grade. But it feels pretty good. I just love running,” Hobbs said.

“I do the 4x8, 800, 400, one mile, high jump and the 4x4. I’ve been running since the age of 4. I started my track career off with St. Pete Striders then we went to Fast Forward and Split Second. I’m going to Embry Riddle. ... Track is life.”

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Spartans Give Back

The football team does a series of community service projects this spring, from feeding the homeless to reading to elementary school students to participating in Relay for Life. By MIRIELE PAUL SNN Staff Writer

First the athletes worked in the Lakewood High gym, wrapping the hot dogs in foil. Then they put them in baskets and brought them to Williams Park to feed the homeless. As they passed out the hot dogs they saw the homeless people’s faces brighten up with joy. This was the first service project the football team did this spring – one of several that coach Cory Moore has planned for them. The athletes said they are doing service projects because they think it is their responsibility to give back to the community. “We’re taking a stand,” Moore said. “This allows the kids to appreciate what they have and be very thankful.” Football player Kenneth Walker, a sophomore, said the service projects taught him not to take anything for granted. “From this experience we will learn to appreciate what we have,” he said. Walker said he is glad that they are giving back to the community because he thinks no one should go hungry. Next, the team took part in Relay for Life, which was hosted here at Lakewood High. After holding the fundraiser for the American Cancer Society on 31st Street last year, the site was switched to Lakewood. It started at 6 p.m. and ended at 8 in the morning. About 450-500 people attended. “We had to have it in the gym because it was raining outside, but it still went extremely well,” assistant principal Peter Oberg said. The football players sold food and walked laps around the gym. “It was a beautiful opportunity to give and help the community. We assisted with all the different programs and the athletes were excited,” Moore said. “It was very fun to me. It went pretty well. I walked and played tug-of-war,” Trey Walker said. The third project the team did was tutoring young students at Sexton Elementary on May 9. “It was fun. We mostly taught the kids how to read. … We had met little kids that we had never known … and made (up) some handshakes with some of them,” senior Nyquel Alexander said.

ELIZABETH WRIGHT | SNN

Sophomore Michael Newton puts relish on a man's hotdog after giving it to him on Feb. 27. The football team made hot dogs to deliver to homeless people at Williams Park. “It made me feel good on the inside because of what we did,” Newton said.

SPECIAL TO SNN ELIZABETH WRIGHT | SNN

The spring football team wraps hot dogs to feed the homeless at Williams Park on Feb. 27. The team went to feed the homeless to do something for the community. “It was cool,” sophomore Savion Smith said.

RACHELLE GADDY | SNN

Junior running back Tyriek Hopkins leads the line as the football players run around the gym at the Relay for Life on May 2.

Lakewood High School football players talk to students in a classroom at Sexton Elementary School on May 9.