SNN September 2013

Three-Time Columbia Scholastic Press Association Gold Medalist

Sowing seeds of AMSET . . . page 3 Yoga: DalĂ­ style . . . page 7

Photo Project: through our eyes . . . pages 8-9

Vol. 5, No. 1

Lakewood High School - Sept. 25, 2013

snntoday.pcsb.org

the hub

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A word from

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By SCOTTY SCHENCK SNN Editor in Chief

Birds perch on a wire at Lakewood High School near the portables on Aug. 23.

MARIAH WATTS | SNN

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. * Volleyball: Watch the junior varsity volleyball team practice in Kimmie McEntegart’s photo slideshow. *Feel the creativity in a composition slideshow that demonstrates the various techniques used by SNN staff photographers. * Check out the scene of the Friday night football game in a multimedia project by De’Qonton Davis, Christian Miller and Jimmy Faulks.

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* Watch Christina Lucas’ science students as they work in the outdoor classroom in a multimedia project by Haley Dolan and Shayquone Seymour.

Welcome back to Lakewood High School for the 20132014 school year!

Some of you may have been dreading this moment and some of you may have been excited. Either way we’re back now, and SNN is in full swing as well.

Every year we return to school; we grow, we learn and we change who we are. Change is a constant factor in each of our lives and with it, we change. Over the years, we’ve gotten a block schedule, tested the hall pass system and have been forced to follow modified dress code. I’ve seen many people grow up and mature in my rise to becoming a senior. Not only have I witnessed such events, but I’ve changed as well.

Change is something that cannot be stopped and, at times, it is better not to fight it. It often has a stigma of negativity, but change can be extremely beneficial and does not always imply something bad.

It’s imperative that we use change to our advantage, to change for the better so that our growth is constructive. It’s important that over this school year each one of us tries to achieve our best and to absorb all the information we can. You may dread school because of the early hours and the amount of work involved, but remember how it is transforming you into a more intelligent and responsible person, one prepared for the outside world.

In the end it’s important not to lose yourself in the changes. “Be the change you want to see in world,” Mohandas Gandhi said. He’s right you know; you can’t just be a bystander to changes. You’ve got to make sure that you only change in the way you know is best.

In the same way, SNN may change, either by our staff or the subject of our stories. However, our foundation, our dedication to truth and objectivity will not … and, of course, thank you for choosing SNN. Page 1 photo by JULIE SMITHFRAZER. The Lakewood High School sail team cruises through Tampa Bay on March 5. Lakewood sailors sail with other local high schools to train for their reggatas.

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News Briefs

A 3-day spirit week?

This year, Lakewood students could be losing out on a few days of spirit week.

There are talks that spirit week will start on Wednesday, Oct. 16, and not the usual Monday. “We are still discussing that and have not made a decision yet,” Lakewood assistant principal Harriet Davis said. Some students aren’t happy with the proposal “It’s spirit ‘week,’ not spirit ‘three-day,’” senior Daniel Petrino said. The proposal is that Wednesday would be flock day, Thursday would be class color day along with the powder puff game, and Friday would be black and gold day. The powder puff game will take place during eighth period on Thursday. The dance will be on Saturday, it will be a carnival theme, and tickets will be on sale starting Oct. 7th. The dress code for the dance is no sneakers or jeans, and it will be a dressy affair, Student Government sponsor Shelia Culbreth said.

- By Staff Writer KAHIL HOLMES

Lakewood almost ‘A’

In the past six years, Lakewood High School’s academics have slowly been on the rise and this year the school has the potential to achieve an A, principal Bob Vicari said. He was hired in 2010 when the school’s grade was a D, and had been that way since 2006. In 2011 Lakewood’s school grade rose to a C, then a B in 2012.

Though the grade is not official until November, Vicari said recently, “We have the points to become an A school.” He said Lakewood turned around because of the strong teachers and staff members along with new processes. When asked why he thinks the school has become successful, Vicari said, “Great hardworking students and staff, increasing graduation rate and increase in learning gains made by students.”

- By Staff Writer ZOE BLAIR-ANDREWS

Scholarship finalist

Senior Sean Hofer may be on his way to a great and successful life. Hofer has been chosen to be a semifinalist for the National Merit Scholarship. Hofer said that the scholarship was based on his PSAT score.

“To qualify you had to have a high PSAT,” he said. Hofer scored a 214 on the test.

During the summer he received a letter in the mail congratulating him on his high score. “I was excited,” Hofer said. Hofer wants to go to the University of Central Florida. “I want to major in computer science,” Hofer said. He was one of 14 students in Pinellas County to be named a semifinalist. If he advances he could win a $2,500 scholarship.

- By Staff Writer DERON PERSHA

ATIERA HOPKINS | SNN

AMSET students work on preparing the new garden outside the media center on Aug. 23. They will be planting cabbage, kale, cauliflower and mustard greens.

AMSET goes healthy, green

By GENNESHA GAGE and JAIDE BURGESS SNN Staff Writers

Students chopped down an oak tree in late August as the hot sun beamed down on them. They were clearing a plot of land near the media center that will later become a vegetable garden.

“We want to start a garden (at Lakewood High) not only because of the beauty such a garden would bring to the campus but, most importantly, we want to engage the student body in discovering how easy and gratifying it can be to grow edible plants as well as harvest and prepare them for consumption,” Diana Friel said, a parent volunteer who is helping with the project.

Friel said she thinks it’s important for kids to become involved in this project, because in this economy it will be important for people to grow their own food. Their slogan is “Grow what you eat. Eat what you grow.” In addition, a lot of jobs are opening in this field, she said, including agronomists, scientists, chefs, social justice advocates and policy makers.

More than 63 percent of Pinellas County adults are overweight, while 30 percent of high school students in Pinellas County are overweight. The project also will teach students to eat healthier.

“Instead of eating fries while driving one handed through traffic, it means taking the time to enjoy good food raised in clean, safe conditions,” Friel said.

Science teacher James Kostka, who directs the academy for Aquatic Management Systems and Environmental Technology also known as AMSET, said he wants to open the project up to all clubs, teams or departments to have a chance to get involved and maybe work a lesson around growing plants and vegetables.

Kostka took his students out on Aug. 23 to clear the plot and help prepare it for planting.

“It was looking a bit rough, and we wanted a central location,” he said.

AMSET senior Kaylee Polk said the experience will be “really cool” because each teacher can get one box to plant what they want. Right now, she said, the AMSET classes are putting

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Sophomore Deron Persha saws tree branches in his AMSET class on Aug. 23. AMSET is in the process of creating a garden outside the library.

together a blueprint or “floor plan” for how the garden will look.

The students plan to grow a variety of edible plants, including cabbage, kale, cauliflower, mustard greens, Brussels sprouts, turnips, Swiss chard and herbs. The plants will be grown in aboveground wooden boxes built by trainees from Job Corp, Friel said.

The food can be given to science classes or the food prep class.

Sophomore Azavier Odom helped cut down the old oak tree when his class was clearing the plot. “It’s pretty fun, lots of work, but it gets done,” he said.

Junior Katie Smith-Frazer also helped when students cleared the plot.

“It’s always fun to work on projects in AMSET,” she said. “I enjoy outdoor work.”

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As one AP leaves, a new one begins

Freshman Renat Aleksejev, left, and junior Jeremy Eaton walk the track in their tennis class on Sept. 6. This school year Lakewood changed the gym dress code to gray and white shirts and black midlength shorts. “It’s standard, it goes with the dress code in general,” Eaton said.

By RASHAD WILLIAMS SNN Staff Writer

DE’QONTON DAVIS | SNN

Dress code meets gym

Lakewood’s new gym dress code helps teachers identify who belongs in the gym and who doesn’t.

By DERON PERSHA and JALEN MIDDLETON SNN Staff Writers

Gym class used to be a place of super short shorts and saggy pants, but the new gym dress code will prevent that from happening in the future.

All gym teachers this year are enforcing a dress code in their classes. Coach Cory Moore said his class has to wear white t-shirts and black gym shorts.

“I love it. It’s just like the military,” Moore said.

The reason why the gym has a specific dress code is because of security reasons, he said. It allows the teachers to spot unwanted students in the gym who aren’t supposed to be there before they become disruptions.

Students who don’t dress out in the appropriate dress code will automatically get a zero for the day in gym and will also be given an alternative assignment,

Moore said.

Some students think the gym dress code is unnecessary. “I don’t like it, I think it’s stupid. We all look the same,” sophomore Darion Smith said.

“I don’t like it. It’s boring; we can’t express ourselves in gym. The black gym shorts attract heat when we go outside and we should be able to wear any shirts we want,” freshman D’Asia Hobbs said.

Gym teacher Chantella Moore, however, said most students she heard from say they like it.

“I like it, we look the same, we don’t have to wear different sportswear for gym now,” freshman Keyont’e Howard said.

After six years at Lakewood High School, assistant principal Deb Fabrizio left for a position at Boca Ciega High School.

“I aspire to become a school principal and district administrator. At Boca Ciega, I will have an opportunity … that may prepare me to meet my career goals,” Fabrizio said in an email to SNN. Teachers and staff say they will miss her a lot.

“I hate walking by a dark office not seeing her smiling face,” principal Bob Vicari said.

Even students she disciplined the most say they will miss her.

“She gave me a hard time my ninth and 10th grade year, (but) I came to realize she was just trying to make me better,” senior Janelle Martin said.

In fact, Fabrizio said, it was a difficult decision for her to leave her friends, colleagues and special students. She said she is extremely proud to be a small part of the success of Lakewood’s athletes and sports teams over the last few years.

“Part of me will always bleed black and gold,” Fabrizio said.

“I just have added a little blue to my veins.”

Ste’Phan Lane, the new assistant principal, said he is enjoying the Lakewood environment.

“The staff and students have AMBER BEIN | SNN been very nice and have made me feel very welcomed,” Lane New assistant principal said. “I definitely feel I could be Ste’Phan Lane joined the a Lakewood Spartan for a long Lakewood team on Sept. 11. time.”

Trop is victor in graduation debate

By TONY O’NEAL SNN Staff Writer

The long-standing tradition of graduation on Spartan Field has officially ended.

This year Lakewood High School seniors were asked to vote on an indoor location for graduation.

Two options were on the ballot, one being Tropicana Field. The other was First Baptist Church, where graduation was held last year after bad weather forced the ceremony on the field to be canceled.

Tropicana Field came out the winner, and for the first time will be the graduation location. “There are advantages and disadvantages with each location,” assistant

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principal Harriet Davis said.

The average spent on graduation is $3,000; however, last year’s ceremony ended up costing about $5,000. And this year, Davis said, Tropicana Field could cost up to $8,000, a major increase.

This jump could lead to senior fees going up and require more fundraising.

Last year’s senior fees were about $90, and Davis said they could double to about $180 this year.

Even though the Trop costs more, seniors said they were reluctant to choose the church. “I didn’t hear great things about the

church last year,” senior Jake Ferrante said.

At the church there would have been parking issues since it would be very crowded. Davis said the seniors would be limited to a certain number of people they could invite, and even with that rule there still might be too many people to fit in the sanctuary.

However, Davis said there were some benefits to the church atmosphere. “It’s like up close … more personal feeling.”

The Trop is able to fit a lot more people, allowing graduates to bring as many friends and family members as desired,

but it will have less of a personal feeling, Davis said.

“It’s like a trade-off,” Davis said.

Many Lakewood students said they would like to graduate on Tropicana Field, but the possibility that senior fees might go up upsets them.

“So … you went through all that and now you have to pay $180 to graduate?” senior Quin’Tavius Mitchell said.

Vicari said the district is looking into ways to reduce the costs. If more schools graduate at the Trop, for example, then the cost could be lower, he said.

- SNN Staff Writer Zoe Blair-Andrews contributed to this story.

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New faces at Lakewood

By AREIL WARD, DIONNE SANCHEZ and JULIE SMITH-FRAZER SNN Staff Writers

John Smith

John Smith, who teaches Algebra, used to work for the Department of Defense. He moved to Florida to be closer to NILAJA KING | SNN his family and wanted to teach mathematics again. Smith, who attended Fayetteville State University, grew up in Charlotte, N.C. He has one daughter. In his spare time he likes to bowl, write poetry, listen to music and spend time with family. When asked what he likes about teaching, he said, “The kids!

I enjoy seeing the development of youthful minds.”

Ron Schnell

Ron Schnell now teaches English though he still owns a martial arts studio.

Schnell NILAJA KING | SNN has two daughters one in college and one heading to college. Schnell, attended the University of South Florida. He has been married for 20 years. Schnell is a co-advisor for Future Business Leaders of America and is a teacher sponsor for the Center for Advanced Technologies boosters. When asked what he likes about teaching, he said, “I like to interact with students and seeing them have success in an ‘ah-ha’ moments.”

Cheri Ashwood CAT guidance

counselor Cheri Ashwood used to be a school counselor at Tyrone Middle School. She NILAJA KING | SNN said she came to Lakewood because she “wanted to get back to high school students.” Ashwood, who attended Florida A&M University, grew up in St. Petersburg. She said she likes sewing, crafting and dancing. Asked why she likes working at a school, she said, “I like to interact with students and help with their future.”

Nicole Harazin

Nicole Harazin has been a literacy coach for four years and this is her first year coaching at Lakewood.

NILAJA KING | SNN She said there were several reasons why she came here but what drew her in the most was that her husband graduated from Lakewood.

Harazin grew up in Homestead, Miami.

She earned her bachelor’s degree at the University of Florida and her master’s at the University of South Florida. In her spare time she likes going to the gym and running along while listening to music. “I enjoy working with everyone, the teachers, the students, and helping us graduate, that is why I’m here,” Harazin said.

Carlos Contreras

Carlos Contreras, the 11th grade guidance counselor, used to counsel at Gulf Coast NILAJA KING | SNN Academy. He came to Lakewood because he heard many wonderful things about it. Contreras earned his bachelor’s degree at Florida International University and his master’s degree at St. Thomas University. In his spare time he writes music, enjoys sports and plays video games. When asked what he likes about counseling, he said “guiding (students) in a clearer path through and after high school.”

Pamela Harding

Pamela Harding used to be a retirement administrator, but now she is the volunteer coordinator at NAUDIA MCDANIEL | SNN Lakewood High School. However, this is not Harding’s first time at Lakewood, “This is my old school … I just want to make a difference in the community,” she said. Harding was born in St. Petersburg, moved to Philadelphia to attend Strayer University and recently came back to Florida. If you are interested in volunteering, Harding said to call 727893-2916 (Ext. 2155).

Priscilla Hunter

Priscilla S. Hunter who teaches English used to teach language arts and reading at Pinellas Park Middle School. Hunter, who attended North Carolina State University, grew up in St. ATIERA HOPKINS | SNN

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Petersburg but moved to North Carolina when she was 16. In her spare time she likes to hang out with friends, go out to dinner, garden, watch television and read.

Hunter said what she likes about teaching is, “Getting to know my students and seeing them learn and grow through the year.”

Brian Turner

Brian Turner, who teaches social personal skills and American government, used to be co-owner NILAJA KING | SNN of a construction company from 2000-2006. He grew up in Virginia Beach, VA and attended Liberty University as well as Nova Smith East University. Turner came to Lakewood because his wife works here and he enjoys working with kids. In his spare time he likes to watch college football. He likes teaching because he wants to “help kids’ lives.”

Michael Mims

Michael Mims, who teaches world history, used to teach at Pinellas Park Middle School.

He said he came to Lakewood KRYSTAL MITCHELL | SNN because he used to work with some of the staff in the past and wanted to give back to the community.

Mims, who attended Kentucky University, grew up in St. Petersburg and graduated from Lakewood. He has two daughters and one grandson. In his spare time he likes to be with his grandson and read. He said if he wasn’t teaching he would be a farmer.

Mims said what he likes about teaching is, “(It) gives me a chance … to impart my background on young people.”

Leadership program starting at Lakewood

By MAGGIE VERDINO and ANGELICA SHEPPARD SNN Staff Writers

Many Lakewood students are confused or unsure about what they want to do after they graduate high school. Well, Lakewood principal Bob Vicari has an opportunity for you.

A new program called Jump Start Leadership is aiming to help students find their calling.

Lakewood alumnus Dr. Prem R. Shah, class of 2003, approached Vicari about the program. Shah is the CEO of Bristol Court Assisted Living, one of the largest Alzheimer and dementia living facilities in the country. He said the program would host speakers from various careers. The sessions will be held at Blessed Trinity Catholic Church next to Lakewood on the first Saturday of every month.

The date of the first session is yet to be determined.

“It’s a career exploration type thing,” Vicari said. “It’s a good opportunity to make some contacts.”

Vicari said Shah hopes to inspire the next generation and help them be successful in their adult lives.

During September the first speaker will be Shah himself, talking about careers in healthcare and medicine.

Other sessions will include speakers from the fields of education in October, hospitality in November and fashion and merchandising in December.

Students will have formal and informal conversations with these speakers. Students will be able to speak with the presenters and ask them “how they managed to get where they are today, what the ingredients were that lead to their success,” Vicari said.

Lakewood AVID teacher Linda Santiago is helping to organize the program. “I think it will give options to kids,” she said.

“We were talking about maybe inviting 120 students, and hopefully if we invite 120, 80 to 100 will show,” Vicari said. The program is geared toward Lakewood juniors and seniors, but Vicari said some sophomores and possibly freshmen may be able to attend.

Lakewood junior Destiny Johnson wants to go into the fashion and art industry. She said the program “would definitely be a huge advantage to get into something; into like a job you actually want to do and can actually help your future and moving on instead of just sticking with a dead end job for the rest of your life.”

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A black perspective New class studies the ‘future, past and present’ of African-American culture.

By MARILYN PARKER SNN Staff Writer

One of the new classes at Lakewood High School is form fitting and relevant to the school’s population. With 60 percent of the school being African-American, social studies teacher Harry Glover said he wanted to teach a course that many students would appreciate and benefit from: African-American studies.

“I felt that it is important for (black students) to learn a little bit more about their culture, their history, their ancestors and things of that nature,” said Glover, who has worked at Lakewood for two years.

The new African-American studies class takes place during first and fifth period, and both classes contain 29 to 32 students.

The majority of the students are African-American, but Glover doesn’t have any restrictions on who can take the course.

“All are welcome. I had a few Hispanics who wanted to take the class and I told them to come on. And in my first class, I have one white student and I asked her if she wanted to take the course … and she said ‘yeah I want to take it.’”

Junior Susanne Hock was initially skeptical about taking the course. “I’m not going to lie, I was like ‘whoa, I’m the only white kid in here,’” Hock said. “I just keep an open mind. I listen to what they all have to say and the knowledge they have and you know you gain more when you listen and you start to understand.”

During class, case studies range from the George Zimmerman trial to other social and economic issues.

Senior Donimic Gaskin said he appreciates the fact that the class topics are more than the basics.

“For years we had to sit and learn about the white point of culture and we could only learn about slavery and MLK and certain people like that, but this is not just a history class, it’s a studies class. We’re studying what’s behind everything that has to do with civil rights and slave trade. We’re going more in depth to what it actually is,” Gaskin said.

Glover intended the class to be more than a history class. Despite the name being “African-American history” on students’ schedules, he says the true name of the class is African-American studies.

ALGERNARD BROWN | SNN

History teacher Harry Glover gives instructions to his African-American studies class. The class is a new elective at Lakewood this year. “I think it’s long overdue. I feel that every student in this school should be taking this class,” Glover said.

The class discusses the issues that African-Americans face that affect their future, past and present. While it is a serious topic, students said they really like the high energy and enthusiasm from their teacher.

“He’s a really nice dude. He makes everything fun; there are no wrong questions or stupid ideas. Everything is accepted and you can come in and not feel ashamed of the culture or your skin tone. It’s a really accepting environment,” Gaskin said.

Organization is key to school success

By BOBBIE WRIGHT SNN Staff Writer

Senior KC Shelton’s planner is a good example of keeping organized with your school work. Any task she starts, she places a checkmark beside when she has it completed.

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Don’t tell me you haven’t experienced that moment of dread when you’re up at 6 a.m., going about your business and your brain is like: “Oh, yeah, that big research essay I forgot about is due today.”

It’s all about getting organized. You may have been able to go through freshman year without sorting things out, jotting down due dates or collecting folders like they’re candy. Or maybe you’re a freshman and you’re doing that now, but by sophomore year you get a notification from your brain: “You have eight classes, kid, c’mon.”

It’s normal. We all let things slip our minds, but that tad bit of forgetfulness could cost you a nice and glamorous GPA. Some things that’ll keep those grades sky high are: • A planner— Your planner itself doesn’t need to be perfect and organized as long as you know what’s going on, when your work is due and when you have to be places.

• Notebooks/folders—Commonly students make the mistake of bunching all their classwork together in one folder. NOT RECOMMENDED. You may have all your work done, but if you don’t have a notebook or folder for each class you will end up with English homework in geometry class.

•Keep a pen handy—You can always jot things down on your

hand and transfer them to your planner later. Don’t rely on your teacher to keep reminding you about a big project that’s due. Get the requirements down as soon as they leave your teacher’s mouth.

AVID teacher Tara Fowler specializes in keeping her students organized, essentially helping to better their grades. “Organization plays a big role in keeping students on track, but it’s also about time management,” Fowler said.

As soon as you get a project, it’s better to plan out how you’ll get it done. It doesn’t all have to be completed at once—spread it out over the expanse of time your teacher has given you. Waiting until the last minute to get things done won’t do your grades any good. Don’t be a professional procrastinator.

“Oftentimes students will cram to get an essay done and go, ‘Wow, I don’t know what I was worried about. This is my best work!’ but it’s not your best work; it can be so much better,” Fowler said.

Keeping all your belongings in check and using your time wisely plays a big role in the outcome of your grade. At the very end when you’re gearing up to step onto that stage at graduation you’ll thank your new-found organization skills.

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When in Rome ... propose

By ANTHONY NIEMEIER and JULIE CHRISTIANSEN SNN Staff Writers

Everyone is still somewhat stuck in summer break, filled with unimaginable stories of where they went and who they met. But some vacation stories really standout. Like the vacation taken by world history teacher Jessica Heiser and her boyfriend Matthew Herring, who this summer became her fiancé.

Over three weeks the couple visited a multitude of places, including Paris, France; Kiev and Sevastopol, Ukraine; and Asmara, Turkey.

Then they flew to Florence and Rome in Italy, where they saw the coliseum, the Forum and Vatican City - and where Herring got down on one knee and proposed to Heiser on a beach.

“She didn’t really say yes, but kind of panicked, cried and rejoiced at the same time. I thought that implied yes, and am still moving forward under that assumption,” said Herring, a defense contractor.

Heiser said she was very surprised and happy when Herring proposed. “I thought it was going to happen earlier, but I was super surprised,” she said. “I was amazed, blown away and I slightly hyperventilated.”

In addition to becoming engaged, the couple also went to many other locations.

The couple was in Paris, France, for just eight hours

because it was a long layover.

“We took a cab to see the Eiffel Tower like good, obedient tourists,” Heiser said.

Afterward they visited Ukraine where they sailed on a yacht. Heiser and Herring stayed in a hotel that overlooked the Black Sea. “I didn’t know they had dolphins in the Black Sea,” Heiser said. They went to a lot of expensive stores and walked up and down the streets. They also went to an Italian restaurant with wonderful lasagna, she said.

Then they sailed to Turkey, exploring different towns.

“We were technically illegal immigrants because we avoided places where we would have to check in. Whoops,” Heiser said.

Next was Asmara, an old town built in the Roman times.

In the interest of time, Heiser and Herring flew to Italy and visited Florence and Rome. In Florence they visited the Duomo - a domed cathedral - and two wineries, bought a cool painting from the artists who also makes wine and went to the Ferrari museum.

But the highlight of their trip remained the engagement.

“If she said no, I could always just cancel her ticket so SPECIAL TO SNN she would have time to think it over again on the slow boat History teacher Jessica Heiser and her new fiance back to the U.S.,” Herring said. They plan to be married in Matthew Herring stand on a beach outside Rome.

October 2014 or February 2015.

I Tried It: Yoga at the Dali Museum

By MARIAH WATTS SNN Staff Writer

Lord knows how long it’s been since I’ve woken up with an aching body excited to do a workout. But boy was my head where the sun doesn’t shine – I had no idea what I was in for that Sunday morning.

Completing the five-minute drive from my house to the Dali Museum, I was looking forward to shoulder stands, child’s pose and downward dog - that’s right, yoga at the Dali.

Initially, I suffered from anxiety trying to find a parking spot, causing me to be late because I had to drive back to my house to retrieve change for the parking meter across from the yoga studio.

I had enough trouble twisting my dad’s arm for the $10 for the class, and wasn’t about to break it for an extra five for parking.

Because I was late, I snuck into the back of the community room and unrolled my mat. The yoga instructor demonstrated moves I never thought were possible. However, due to my competitive nature I completed the moves and then some. I couldn’t leave the tranquil room knowing that a woman twice my age could get lower or stay in a position longer thank I could.

Regardless of the sweat and pain, my body was able to find a place of center and serenity. The room was behind a garden littered with Dali pieces. The art with the most

recognition was The Persistence of Memory, otherwise known as the melting clocks. And that is exactly what I did- melt when I was in corpse, puppy or cat pose. Every time I stole a peek around the room to see if I did a pose right, I stared past the instructor, through the domed glass wall at a small tree reminding myself to bond with the earth.

I was surrounded by harmonious breaths, chimes and bells that helped me detach from the world. Now close your eyes, the instructor said, take deep slow breaths and become one with the earth, that tree outside the window…good.

Now, become one with the universe.

Embrace the ocean of breaths, allow all your problems to disappear. Soon I was one with the sky, the water and ATIERA HOPKINS | SNN that melting clock outside the Senior Mariah Watts practices yoga on the football field. Watts Dali museum. tried yoga for the first time at the Dali Museum.

Every breath was in sync, creating a sound so the same time…if that makes sense. My body was sore but that when you shut your eyes you see waves my mind, soul and spirit were lifted. I know what you’re colliding with rocks or crashing into the shore. Or thinking, but I’m not some newly realized guru or soonit might have been the exaggerated breaths of the man to-be hippie. Once you have the experience I’ve come to next to me; either way I was on a pretend vacation to the know, you’ll understand. Before leaving the room, we had islands. to complete a chant and say “Namaste.”

To conclude our session, we were instructed to lie flat The class is every Sunday and well worth the money. on our backs and let the universe take over. Without the in- Due to a teenage budget, I’d recommend the class once or structor’s hypnotizing voice and the soft ring of the chimes twice a month. The cost is $10 for students and members grounding me, I would have fallen asleep. We were still and $15 for adults. The museum for about five minutes before “coming back” to the world. is on 1 Dali Blvd. and the cost for Once I returned, I remember feeling heavy, but light at parking was about $1.75.

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The best projects from st Elementary, John Hopki “Through Our Eyes: Midto at Studio@620, 620 First for opening night. You

Birds wade in Tampa Bay near the Pink Streets neighborhood in St. Petersburg.

KC SHELTON | SNN

MIRIELE PAUL | SNN

Sophomore Deron Persha casts a shadow as he skateboards at Lake Vista park.

Former Lakewood student Cornelius Copeland pitches a ball during a game against Osceola High School on Feb. 26.

Lakewood won 6-3.

RACHELLE GADDY| SNN

Senior Aaron Graham practices on Spartan Field during Spring football training.

Former Lakewood student Lat Springs High at Jack Russell S

ROMELLO PRESL

BRIANNA JOHNSON | SNN

Former Lakewood student Rashaud Jackson lifts weights after scho the Lakewood weight room.

ough our Eyes...

tudent journalists at the Center for Journalism and Multimedia at Melrose ins Middle and Lakewood High schools will be on display at the exhibit own and Beyond.� The top 100 photo and multimedia projects can be seen Ave. S, in St. Petersburg, starting on Friday, Sept. 27, from 5 until 8 p.m. can also see the exhibit from Tuesday through Saturday, noon to 4 p.m.

Gibbs High School student Tre Wilcher does a kick flip on his skateboard in south St. Petersburg.

MYESHA HALL | SNN

Former Lakewood student Harley Waller practices a piece of music on the keyboard in her bedroom.

BRIANNA JOHNSON | SNN

terian Latimer tumbles over home plate after stealing during a game against Tarpon Stadium on Feb. 16. Latimer scored the first run of the game. Lakewood lost 4-5.

JULIE SMITH-FRAZER | SNN

LEY | SNN

ool in

JULIE SMITH-FRAZER | SNN

Lakewood sailor Addison Hackstaff pulls in a line.

JULIE SMITH-FRAZER | SNN

The sun shines through a sail, silhouetting the high school sailors.

opinion

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Editorial

Let’s start with a bang, Lakewood Walking through the halls of Lakewood High School, one can feel the lack of energy. Maybe it’s because we’re tired, maybe it’s because we’re bored or maybe it’s because we are all dressed pretty similar (probably the latter), but the overreaching sense of “blah” is definitely in the air. Be that as it may, the energy can be brought back with some effort.

The best way to foster school pride is to get involved. There are plenty of clubs and organizations that could use skillful students who are willing to put in a little extra time and energy. Not only does this build school spirit, but it opens the door to many opportunities, academic or otherwise. The student athletes love seeing familiar faces in the crowd, cheering them on. Going to see a Lakewood sports team battle it out on the field, court, diamond or in the pool is a great way to connect with the student body.

This year is going to be chock-full of great moments. Soon spirit week and Homecoming will be here and it’ll be the students’ chance to dress up and express their school pride and creativ-

ity. This time could set the tone for the entire year; use it to your advantage.

Academics are of the utmost importance here at Lakewood as well. As a nearly A grade school, Lakewood prides itself on students’ academic excellence. Let’s continue the upward trend in achievement that Lakewood has had in the last few years by conquering the FCATs and EOCs. It takes a little bit of courage to walk into each and every day with a sense of purpose, but in the end, it’s worth it. Each day is a new opportunity to seize the future, and, when treated as such, it is possible to reach new heights. The energy the student body brings to the school changes the atmosphere, and it’s up to each and every Spartan to decide what that energy level will be.

- This editorial reflects the opinion of the SNN staff and was written by opinion editor Nia Cumberlander.

Your Voices:

Should teachers have to follow the dress code?

Junior Paul Santora “Yes, because the students do. I guess teachers have the privilege.”

English teacher Kristie Dowling “No, teachers get very few concessions in our business. One of the things in our contracts that we get is we don’t have to follow a dress code.”

Senior Donterio Fowler “Yes, because if we do, they should have to. I don’t like it at all.”

Spartan News Network Staff Editor-in-Chief: Scotty Schenck News Chief: Zoe Blair-Andrews Opinion Editor: Nia Cumberlander Designer: Kahil Holmes Multimedia Editor: Naudia McDaniel Photo Editor: Rachelle Gaddy Chief Photographer: Atiera Hopkins Features Editor: Bobbie Wright Entertainment Editors: Quindon Nolton and Jakob Barker Web Master: Mariah Watts Fashion Editor: Daijha Wimberly Copy Chief: Caroline Dunning Copy Editors: Victoria Bischoff and Akela Harris Advertising/Marketing Manager: Demé Davis

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:

snntoday.pcsb.org

Senior Sarah Gray “Yeah, a lot of them (teachers) are inappropriately dressed.”

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Campus monitor Greg Hinton “Yes, that way we set a good example of what we’re requesting and enforcing.”

Senior Adrian Davis “Yes, if we can’t dress how we want to dress, then they should have a dress code.”

- Quotes gathered by ALEX DORN. Photos by MARILYN PARKER and AMBER BEIN.

W e d n e s d a y, S e p t . 2 5 , 2 0 1 3

opinion

Columns

Hollywood High loses its glamour

By NIA CUMBERLANDER

SNN Opinion Editor

The school formerly known as “Hollywood High” for its fashionsavvy students has undergone a complete overhaul. Pretty blouses, bold patterns, chic skirts and fun dresses have been replaced with plain, polostyle shirts and basic blue jeans and khakis, a combination that is reminiscent of our elementary school days. It’s a casual uniform that blurs the lines between pleasantly clean-cut and dorky.

One might ask if a student’s outer appearance is worth all the trouble it takes to implement these new policies.

Unless a student is wearing something very short, something exposing his or her undergarments or wearing some-

thing with an offensive message, I see no reason why they can’t dress in whatever clothes express their personal style.

I’d rather have strict, private school style uniforms or the dress code we had before.

The in-between “modified dress code” is the worst of both worlds.

There was confusion in the beginning. Students were being stopped because of the wrong shade of khaki or because their teachers weren’t sure if their button-down shirts were “Oxford style”. The normal beginning-ofschool fashion show was turned into more of a daily inspection, and suddenly it wasn’t shocking to see your outfit on multiple people.

The administration at Lakewood, however, is adamant

that a change in student dress will improve the school by making it a more “professional” environment. However, research on the effectiveness of uniforms improving academic achievement is inconclusive; really there has been little evidence that proves that uniforms help students perform better in school.

Only time will tell if the changes here at Lakewood will make a significant impact on the behavior and the academic performance of the students. The staff here at the Spartan News Network will be following up to see if the new dress code really makes a measurable difference.

In the meantime, my classmates and I will be relishing in the moments when we aren’t in school and are able to dress however we so please.

Homework distractions

By KC SHELTON SNN Staff Writer

Being a senior is hard enough without the distractions. The things we actually have to focus on, such as raising our SAT and ACT scores, staying on track with graduation requirements and applying for colleges, feel tedious. However, it’s important to stay on top of things, because this is just the beginning.

October and November are usually when college applications are due. I started three of them the week before school started, and you’d think I’d be done with them by now.

However, I have finished only one because I’m too busy watching The Office on Netflix. I can talk myself into watching New Girl, but not into finishing 20 math problems. It’s an everyday struggle for many teens. Instead of listen-

ing to Blair Waldorf vent to Dorota, maybe we could study for tomorrow’s physics test.

Watching T.V. is just one of the distractions.

Sleep is another problem. Naps are now the norm. We as students tire ourselves out every day by stressing about the homework we didn’t do and trying to cram for a physics test, which as a result, makes us exhausted by the end of the day. Although it’s almost impossible to do so, try to get in bed at a decent hour so that you don’t sleep through biology.

Somehow, some way, the majority of us end up finishing our essays and getting a B on our chapter quizzes.

However, sometimes we don’t get that lucky.

Rather than risking your grade, attempt to put off watching Clueless for the third time this month and actually finish that book that you should have started reading last week.

Teachers should not be an exception

By EPITHANYE SHERMAN SNN Staff Writer

A new school year has begun, and everywhere you look you see students in collared shirts or Lakewood t-shirts, blue jeans and khakis. But with this major change one thing remains the same: teachers.

No matter where you look you will notice the same thing. The teachers’ dress code is noticeably more lax then the students. How is this fair?

They say this dress code is to help prepare us for our future in the work environment, to “dress for success,” but most workers follow a strict dress code. You shouldn’t go to work in an office with sweatpants, low-cut shirts, nails three inches long. Frankly this is in no way professional – yet occasionally teachers dress this way.

This is a bit hypocritical. Why haven’t teachers been “dress-coded?”

To fix this, teachers should have a strict code to follow as well. Lakewood teachers should have staff shirts, to set them apart from the students, with khakis, plain blue jeans, or slacks. Since students are not allowed red, whether it is shirts or jackets, teachers should not be allowed to wear red either.

Let the teachers set the proper example and dress professionally. It’s their job, correct?

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entertainment

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Sweatshirt shows progress

By QUINDON NOLTON SNN Staff Writer

Rapper Earl Sweatshirt has dropped an album with the name dedicated to his grandmother, Doris. Released Aug. 20, multiple websites are raving about it.

The album shows progression from his old mixtape EARL, which was released on March 31, 2010. Many of the songs on Doris have Columbia Records goofy lines that deal with deep issues. Even though it’s his first album released you should think of it as his sophomore album. It’s that good.

For instance the song Chum talks about his experience being sent to Samoa’s Coral Reef Academy because of his behavior and attitude while he was an “at risk male,” at the age of 16.

This album is not a disappointment. It shows what can happen in one year of production. Sweatshirt talks about more mature lyrics from 2010 which dealt with fictional rape and death.

On Doris, Sweatshirt collaborates with artists such as RZA from Wu- Tang Clan, Mac Miller, Frank Ocean and Tyler the Creator to name a few. On the track Sunday, Ocean raps about the fight that happened with Chris Brown on Jan. 28. “And why’s his mug all bloody, that was a three on one? Standing ovation at Staples, I got my Grammy’s and gold,” he says.

Doris can be compared to Wolf, the album from Tyler the Creator. However, Sweatshirt’s is much darker.

In this book, ‘Every Day’ is not the same

By CAROLINE DUNNING SNN Staff Writer

Some people tend to have those days he met Rhiannon was Justin, Rhiannon’s when they are just screeching at their parboyfriend who takes her for granted. ents and thinking to themselves that they Also, A’s gender and physical features wish they had new ones. But how would it change every day, which makes Rhiannon feel to have a different mother and father a little uncomfortable. Third, Rhiannon is each day and live in a different body daily unsure of whether or not she has fallen for as well?

A as much as he has for her.

In the novel Every Levithan’s novel, which has Day by David Levithan, been chosen for this year’s Battle A is a teenager who has of the Books list, weaves an into live his life this way. tricate and intellectual romance He can be anyone and between A and Rhiannon that is live anywhere. He tries unlike any other. The fact that to live the stranger’s Rhiannon can ignore what A looks lives just as they do and like and focus on who he is as a to not become attached person allows readers to grasp the to anyone since he will concept of equality. leave their life the very Every teenager should read this next day, until he meets book, male or female, and learn a beautiful girl named from the time that Rhiannon and Rhiannon.

A have with each other. Time is Rhiannon is not like a precious resource and should any girl A has ever seen Knopf Books for Young Readers not be wasted on judging others or met. She is unique, because of who they are or what speaks her mind and A falls in love with they look like, and Rhiannon’s relationship her immediately. There are many consewith A demonstrates that perfectly. quences, though, of A’s love for Rhiannon.

First, the body that A embodied on the day

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Atlus Co.

Video game series continues to impress

By JAKOB BARKER SNN Staff Writer

The Eastern Kingdom of Mikado is a peaceful land made up of nobles called Luxorors and commonfolk called Casualries. They are watched over by a chosen group of protectors called Samurai, whose secret job is to prevent any demons from entering the Kingdom. The protagonist, whose default name is Flynn, is chosen to be one of these Samurai just as a mysterious figure only known as the “Black Samurai” appears in the Kingdom and distributes books, causing those who read them to become demons. Flynn must track them down and arrest them before the Kingdom is swarmed by the humans-turneddemons.

While it is not the most creative opening, the latest Shin Megami Tensei IV video game manages to make it work and weaves a good plot together. Unfortunately, some of the main characters are rather weak and shallow, making them rather forgettable.

The game’s presentation is fairly good. While the style of having 2D battle graphics is rather odd, it doesn’t matter all that much. The art style is good, accurately showing the differences between each demon and even their culture. The music, unfortunately, has little variety, so you will be hearing mostly the same music for the entire game.

The combat is the series standard turn-based combat. On your turn, you and up-to three-demons that you can have out on the field can attack, heal, flee from the battle, use items, switch active demons, etc. If you hit an opponent’s elemental weakness or get a lucky critical hit (or “crit”), you get an extra move during your turn. You can have up to four of these extra moves per turn. Should you hit an enemy’s elemental strength, however, you lose turns and will either deal little-to-no damage, have your damage reflected back or even heal your opponent. Your opponents also deal with this same system, meaning fights can very quickly get out of hand if your opponent manages to get a lucky crit or hit your weakness.

In general, the game is difficult and very punishing of mistakes. Both you and enemies can do large amounts of damage with even low-leveled moves, making most battles require at least some planning. Thankfully, for those who can’t handle the difficulty, or when the game messes up the difficulty curve (which occurs an unfortunate number of times), you can freely switch to and from a lower difficulty level at any point to make things easier.

Shin Megami Tensei IV is a strong entry into a great Japanese Role Playing Game (JRPG) series. It manages to keep its well-known difficulty curve for the most part while also making the game accessible to new players. While the 2D battle sprites might drive some people off, and the difficulty curve does mess up occasionally, the game overall is definitely worth the $40, and is a must-have for RPG fans who own a Nintendo 3DS.

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entertainment

‘Conjuring’ summons scary vibes

By SCOTTY SCHENCK SNN Staff Writer

Sometimes we forget about how scary it would be if we were in a horror movie. With so much blood and violence these days, it’s easy to become numb to the terrifying sensations of a horror movie. The Conjuring is changing this up with a few special words: “Based on a true story.” (And not the 2 Chainz album.)

James Wan, also notable for directing Insidious and the Saw series, made the thriller of the summer which received an R rating simply because the Motion Picture Association of America said, “It’s just so scary,” according to producer Walter Hamada.

The movie follows the story of two paranormal investigators in New England, Ed and Lorraine Warren, played by Patrick Wilson and Vera Farmiga. Although the introductory scene seems out of place, it did well to set a scary mood for the entire movie, explaining exactly what the Warrens do. Quickly, we are also introduced to the Perron family, a mother, father and their five girls who have moved to the beautiful Rhode Island countryside.

Their large old house turns from dream home to night-

mare as paranormal events begin to plague the family.

Eventually the family contacts none other than the paranormal researcher duo, accompanied by assistant Drew, played by Shannon Kook, and Officer Brad Hamilton, played by John Brotherton. Now the Warrens must fight to save the Perron family from an evil witch, Bathsheba, from the 19th century.

Many people are wondering how much of the story is true. The Warrens were actual paranormal investigators from the New England area. Ed Warren died in 2006, but Lorraine Warren, 86, is still alive and actually helped with the production of the movie. However, in some scenes, the truth has been stretched. According to some biographical sources, the witch who haunts the Perron family died of old age, not actually hanging herself. All in all, a tremendous amount of truth was preserved.

Of all other things, the production quality should be praised in this film. Minimal special effects and a beautifully produced score by Joseph Bashara, who actually played the witch Bathsheba in the movie, are aspects I

‘The Butler’ is a must-see true story

The journey of One Direction hits theaters

By NIA CUMBERLANDER SNN Staff Writer

By CAROLINE DUNNING SNN Staff Writer

Average boybands consist of five guys that have decent singing voices and are easy on the eyes. One Direction, the popular British boyband with members Louis Tomlinson, the “funny” one; Niall Horan, the Irish one; Liam Payne, the responsible one; Harry Styles, the “cheeky” one; and Zayn Malik, the mysterious one, has all of these qualities (especially the part about their looks), but they are not your typical boyband. Not enough evidence? I thought the same thing: they aren’t different. But watching the This Is Us 3D film about the behind-the-scenes life of the biggest boyband on the planet will change your perspective.

Walking into the movie theater, all that one can hear is the sound of screaming girls. When the lights dim, the entire room erupts in a chorus of cheers and sobs. The film begins in a serious manner. The lads talk about their childhood as images flash onto the screen. Then the screen goes black and on come the boys.

Throughout the film, One Direction’s personal lives are illustrated, including the joyful

Warner Bros.

enjoyed. Of course the cinematography and acting were also done very well.

I enjoyed this movie a lot. It had many aspects I was not expecting, and I think the truth element added a lot to the quality of the writing of the movie. I would suggest this to horror fans or people who can appreciate a movie for its quality - if you’re 17.

TriStar Pictures

moments and the emotional ones.

One noteworthy moment was when Styles went back to his home town of Holmes Chaples in Chesire, England, to visit the bakery where he used to work.

All of the little old ladies crowded around him as he flaunted his signature grin in happiness.

The boys are best friends and anyone can see that just by the way they act around each other.

Payne said that they have become so close since they spend more time together than they do with their own families.

The film’s 3D effects are phenomenal. It felt like if you reached far enough, you could touch the boys’ faces. (Trust me, I tried it.) This Is Us, directed

by Morgan Spurlock, allows the audience to visualize a different side of the boys than just the fact that they’re famous. It allows you to make that connection with the boys and make it feel like you knew them personally. The movie gives a more average persona to the radio voices and gives you a detailed insight into the lives of One Direction.

Sentimental and easy to watch, Lee Daniels’ The Butler spans the 20th century and illustrates the struggles of the civil rights movement like a storybook, vividly pictured and somewhat simplified. The end result is a picture with a star-studded cast that delivers a black history lesson full of quality acting and plenty of heart.

Forest Whitaker gives an exceptional performance as the earnest Cecil Gaines, a black butler who serves in the White House from the Eisenhower to Reagan administration. Cecil Gaines is loosely based off of the real life of Eugene Allen, who worked as a butler in the White House for 34 years.

The story begins in the 1920’s when Cecil was a child working with his parents sharecropping on a cotton plantation in rural Georgia. After his father is shot and killed by one of the men on the plantation, he is taken in by the lady of the house and taught to be a “house n---er”, a boy servant for the well-to-do white family.

Once he grows older, Cecil leaves the plantation and learns how to be a proper butler while working at an inn in North Carolina. He marries his wife, Gloria (Oprah Winfrey) and has two sons, Louis (David Oyelowo) and Charlie (Elijah Kelley). When Cecil is offered the job in the White House, it is regarded as a proud achievement by his family and friends, except for his eldest son, Louis, who sees little honor in his father’s service. Cecil works earnestly, and for president after president, he manages to be in the room for some of the most pivotal civil rights decisions of our time from the integration of Little Rock High School to Reagan’s dismissal of South African apartheid.

The presidents are brought to life by a collection of polished actors, including Robin Williams as the

The Weinstein Company

pensive Eisenhower, Alan Rickman as a self-assured Reagan, and John Cusack as the anxious Nixon. The funny and poignant happenings of the White House provide a sense of pace and timing to the film, but sometimes feel like a diversion from the real story, Cecil’s family drama.

Cecil’s home life is far from perfect. His long hours keep him away from his family. Gloria turns to alcohol and the comfort of her sleazy, gambling neighbor, Howard (Terrence Howard). Cecil’s sons adjust to life without their father. Throughout the film, Louis conflicts with his family about his outspoken activism. This disjointed relationship between father and son proves to be the backbone of the film. Louis seems to place himself in every major civil rights event of the age, including the lunch counter sit-ins, the Freedom Rides, MLK marches and even a brief stint in The Black Panthers. Many of these acts of civil disobedience land Louis in jail and subsequently isolate him further and further from his family, especially his dutiful and patriotic father.

At the end of the film, the audience is left to ponder the subversive power of those who serve, a theme that is present throughout. Lee Daniels’ The Butler will tug at your heartstrings as it gives you a unique perspective on American history and our racial relations progress (or lack thereof) and it certainly has the capability to win a few statues this award season.

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sports

F o o t b a l l

W e d n e s d a y, S e p t . 2 5 , 2 0 1 3

RACHELLE GADDY | SNN

Coach Cory Moore gives a mini-speech during a timeout in the third quarter on Sept. 6. In a Game against Palmetto High School.

RACHELLE GADDY | SNN

Seniors Jocqui Ellison (3), Darquez Watson (6), and Donterio Fowler (8) listen to coach Cory Moore on the sidelines as he motivates the offensive team on Sept. 6 on the home field against Palmetto High School. The Spartans won 20-13.

VOLLEyBALL Freshmen Elaina Griffith and Julie Massey set against the wall during practice in the Lakewood gymnasium on Sept. 4. “I love the season so far, we have improved so much, especially when we play six on six,” KIMMIE MCENTEGART | SNN Griffith said.

CROSS COUNTRY

The JV volleyball team practice serving in the Lakewood gymnasium on Sept. 4. So far the Lady Spartans’ record is 2-1.

The Lakewood swim team warms up before its meet against Northeast on Sept. 11. This season the swim team has lost 4 out of 4 swim meets. “We are kind of rebuilding,” swim coach James Kostka said. “It’s coming along, the team is more focused. I think they will be ok.”

ALGERNARD BROWN | SNN

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BRANDON SWEAT | SNN

KIMMIE MCENTEGART | SNN

SWIM AND DIVE

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Senior Darquez Watson (6) gets hit by a Palmetto High School player on Sept.

6 on Lakewood’s field.

MIRIELE PAUL | SNN

Lakewood High School's cross country runners senior DeVontae Persha, freshman Colin McAdam and junior Jahaven Haye run in a meet on Sept.

19 at Crescent Lake Park.

GOLF

KAMDON MARTIN | SNN

Junior Alex Henley takes a practice swing at St. Petersburg Country Club during a match against Largo and Northeast High schools on Sept. 12.

“We’re improving, we’ve won some matches, and in a couple of years we’ll keep getting better,” golf coach John Toronski said.

W e d n e s d a y, S e p t . 2 5 , 2 0 1 3

sports

SPORTS DIGESTS GOLF: Coach John Toronski pre-

dicts that this year’s team will be “very competitive and build and get better.” He said the team has no seniors and a lot of underclassmen, including freshmen. The team’s record so far is 2-8, and “if we keep winning, we’ll be able to make it out of our district,” Toronski said. To make it to states, however, will be a real challenge. A lot of the young guys will have to improve, he said. The team’s next match is a conference match today against Dunedin and Pinellas Park high schools at St. Petersburg Country Club.

- SNN Staff Writer TONY O’NEAL JIMMY FAULKS | SNN

VOLLEYBALL: The volleyball

season has just begun and the team, as of Sept. 18, was first in their district with a 2-1 record. Volleyball coach Kayla Rodak said the team has new players, but they’re learning quickly. Their goal is to improve every day. “We just take it one game at a time,” Rodak said.

- SNN Staff Writer KC SHELTON

CROSS COUNTRY: Coach

Anthony Snead predicts that the boys and girls teams will go to regionals as they continue to “try their best.” They’ve had two meets so far. In one they placed second and in the other they came in eighth.

- SNN Staff Writer TONY O’NEAL

SWIM AND DIVE: The swim-

ming season just started and coach James Kostka predicts the team’s record will not be very good this year because Lakewood has moved to a larger division, and the competition will be tougher. “It’s good training for our district and region, but (it) can be hard to stay positive as the season moves on,” Kostka said. “Toward the end, we will be swimming (against) Gibbs who is in our district and I am confident we will do well.” Kostka said he thinks the team will do well in districts. He said the swimmers are starting to drop a lot of time and the team is coming together. “(We) have to be very fast and then we have to keep our fingers crossed that we can make the cut for the state competition.”

- SNN Staff Writer CAROLINE DUNNING

The Lakewood varsity football team lines up for the national anthem during the Lakewood vs. Palmetto game on Sept.

6. The Spartans defeated Palmetto 2013.

Football team works with changes

By OWEN DYCHES SNN Staff Writer

On the cusp of a new era for Lakewood football, one without Tracy Johnson and Rodney Adams, the Spartan’s offense has a new look and new philosophy.

During the summer, six new players from Northeast High School joined Lakewood, including quarterback Ryan Davis. Davis may be the top returning quarterback in Pinellas County. The players include Donterio Fowler, brother of a former Lakewood player and alumnus Dante Fowler, and four other defensive players. The Florida High School Athletic Association has cleared all players’ transfers because they live in Lakewood’s zone and were in special programs at Northeast.

In their first game of the season on Aug. 30, the Spartans lost 15-13 to Countryside High School, and did not look good at any point in the game. “(Countryside) played a couple of games before this one, and we didn’t play any. So that had an effect on the game. But we can’t use excuses if we want to play better,” head coach Cory Moore said after the game.

The Spartans second game on Sept. 6 was a close home win against Palmetto, 20-13. The offense played better in this game, as well as the defense.

On Sept. 12, the Spartans faced crosstown rival St. Petersburg High School at Spartan Field. Lakewood defeated the Green Devils last year in the annual Mayor’s Cup at Progress Energy Field by a score of 27-6. This game was not much different as the Spartans defeated the Green Devils 28-3. “It was an important game for us,” Davis said. Davis had 145 passing yards that led to two touchdowns, with 79 rushing yards. That win put Lakewood at 2-1 overall.

This past Friday, Lakewood was scheduled to play rival Gibbs High School at home. (Check the SNN website, snntoday.pcsb.org, for details on that game.)

As far as hopes for the season, Moore made his intentions very clear: “We want to win states, everyone does. But we’re on a mission this year. What’s important is to take it one game at a time.”

New coach brings hope for JV volleyball

By VICTORIA BISCHOFF SNN Staff Writer

Lakewood High School’s new junior varsity volleyball coach Travis Nead comes from Eckerd College where he was the second assistant coach of the women’s volleyball team.

Nead, 25, is a longtime volleyball player himself. Nead started playing on his middle school team when he was 13 years old and continued to play on varsity all four years of high school. He played club volleyball during his senior year and played two years on the men’s club team at the University of South Florida (USF).

Nead left his college team in 2008 to start coaching at the club level.

“I have coached five seasons of club volleyball (and) three seasons of high school at Carrollwood Day School in Tampa,” he said.

As a USF graduate with 13 years of playing experience behind him, Nead came to coach at Lakewood after he’d finished his master’s degree in coaching education. “(I) wanted to coach at Lakewood so that I can continue to train and develop young players, not only to become strong volleyball players, but also successful young adults,” he said.

Captain Ciana Rodgers, a freshman, said Nead is very helpful. “He’s detailed and he’s very handsKIMMIE MCENTEGART | SNN on with us,” she said. “He’ll teach us if we don’t Travis Nead, the new JV understand something.” volleyball coach.

“He’s giving us the skils to help us win games and to want to win games,” junior Tamia Kennedy said.

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Meet the 2013-14 SNN editors

Scotty Schenck Editor-in-Chief

Zoe Blair-Andrews News Chief

Mariah Watts Web Master

Bobbie Wright Feature Editor

Daijha Wimberly Fashion Editor

Kahil Holmes Design Editor

Rachelle Gaddy Photo Editor

Nia Cumberlander Opinion Editor

DemĂŠ Davis

Atiera Hopkins Chief Photographer

Quindon Nolton Co-Entertainment Editor

Caroline Dunning Victoria Bischoff Advertising/Marketing Copy Editor Copy Chief Manager

Naudia McDaniel Multimedia Editor

Jakob Barker Co-Entertainment Editor

Akela Harris Copy Editor