RHS Knight Writers Vol 64 Issue 2 by Knight Writers

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Knight Volume 64, Issue 2

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Writers 6311 S Lois Ave, Tampa, Fla. 33616

Robinson High School

Dec. 11, 2023

Knights Jingle All the Way at the Winter Pep Rally The gymnasium becomes a winter wonderland on Friday, Dec. 1 for the Winter pep rally By CECILIA CHENG, PRINT MANAGING EDITOR & ARAYA STEARNS, SENIOR STAFF WRITER Infused with the spirits of the holiday season, Knights celebrated Robinson’s winter sports with its third pep rally of the year in the gymnasium on Friday, Dec. 1. Planned by the Student Government Association (SGA), the theme was Winter on the Beach, featuring the upperclassmen as snow and underclassmen as sand. “The preparation for the pep rally was a little challenging because we had Thanksgiving break right before the pep rally, but this was also good in some ways because our PR committee was able to do an amazing job creating the decorations,” Senior Class President Tara Kuklen said. “We wanted to do

creative for the theme. Since we live in Florida, it is never truly winter, hence the idea of snow vs. sand for the theme.”

The rally began with two performances. First, the Spirit Boys danced to the iconic “Mean Girls” “Jingle Bell Rock” dance. The crowds got hyped as “Playing the cheer basketball was super fun and they danced synchronously and performed several I really enjoyed being the basket because it made stunts, but no one performs better stunts than the experience more enjoyable,” said Maile Abell the Robinson Competitive Cheer team. Cheers (‘26), a Flyer for the team. “Also, the fact that my were heard from all over the stands as they flipped friend was the one shooting the poms made it through the air. even better.” “I thought we performed super well especially considering it’s the beginning of the competitive season and we have not had a lot of full outs yet. The crowd’s energy was definitely a factor in our success and it feels really good to be able to showcase Robinson Cheer as the powerhouse we are,” said Sara Lebron (‘24), a Backspot for the team. No pep rally is complete without its games. One of the new games included in this pep rally was teacher sumo wrestling. Teachers dressed up in turkey sumo wrestling suits and fought until the other was pinned down on the ground. The first round was between history teachers Alexander Barron and Kevin McCray and the second round was between science teacher Melissa Golden and school nurse Brianna Godfrey;

something new and

Barron and Godfrey were the winners. Another new game was cheer basketball. The cheer team was to perform a stunt where the flyer formed a hoop with her arms. Representatives from each grade threw their pompoms like basketballs.

Flyer Maile Abell (‘26) makes an basket with her arms as pompoms get thrown in. Photo by A. Stearns

The winter sports were then introduced one by one as they ran a lap around the gym. Robinson’s sports include competitive cheerleading, soccer, wrestling, basketball and colorguard. The captains, and their substitutes, from each sport then participated in a game of musical chairs, where wrestling team member Arron McCarty (‘26) was the winner. The last game was the Teacher vs. Student Basketball game. Teachers included math teacher Steven Smith, history teacher Gerald Batista, social studies teacher Donald Pippin, school officer Hester and others. After several dunks and three-pointers, the students won against the faculty, 9-7. The pep rally ended with the traditional class chant. The senior class was the first to be eliminated. After three more heated rounds, the class of ‘26 took home a win. “Even though we were outnumbered by every other grade, collectively we had great school spirit. Hopefully, at the next pep rally, we have more seniors join us,” Shoira Afandikhonova (‘24) said. (ON THE LEFT) Danica De Jenzano (‘25) smiles in the middle of a stunt. De Jenzano is a side base for the RHS competitive cheer team. “I felt very nervous to perform at the pep rally because it’s almost like performing at a competition. But I think our performance went very well and it was really fun to hear everyone cheering when we did our stunts. The students are always so impressed with what we do and cheer us on which the team is very grateful for,” De Jenzano said. Photo by C. Cheng

The Spirit Boys dance to “Jingle Bell Rock” at the Winter pep rally. Photo by A. Stearns

HEADLINES FROM THE INSIDE

Isabelle Robert (‘24) and Keira Logan (‘24) laugh as Logan ended up on Robert’s lap during musical chairs. Both Robert and Logan are on the girls soccer team. “I thought it was really funny that my own teammate got me out,” Logan said. Photo by C. Cheng

Junior Class President Nate Clement dresses up like Santa Claus in the spirit of the pep rally. Photo by A. Stearns

— OPINION — Editorial: Teachers are Quitting and it’s not Just Because of Pay It used to be simple. Parents send their kids to school to learn. The children progressed through the grades, many graduating...

Math teacher Christopher Snyder dribbles down the court during the annual teacher vs. student basketball game. “Our primary concern was to not end up in an ambulance or a trip to the ER. Don’t roll your ankle, don’t dislocate your hip. There were two of us under the age of 30, ” Snyder said. Photo by A. Stearns

Wrestler Dominic Hernandez (‘24) looks back at his opponent Quinten Erikson (‘25) as he gets ready to tackle him. Photo by A. Stearns

(From left to right) Seniors Mina Kuklen, Julia Barrett and Sanjna Madabhushanam smile as they and the other seniors cheer on their friends during one of the pep rally games. Photo by A. Stearns

— FEATURES — Robinson Goes Global Due to Robinson’s close proximity to the MacDill Air Force Base a variety of new students pool in every year making Robinson no stranger to foreign students. This year, Robinson has received a handful of students from...

— SPORTS — Knights Foundation Inspires New Generations of Lax Players The Knights Lacrosse Foundation, founded and run by Robinson’s very own boy’s lacrosse coach, Ryan Becker, provides a “free-of-pay”...

NEWS

Robinson Teachers Continue to Leave Students are stranded without a teacher and left wondering will one remain By SOFIA SCOTT, STAFF WRITER & YESENIA ROSARIO, NEWS & FEATURES EDITOR In the 2023-24 school year, more than any of the other years, Robinson has had more teachers leaving the school, which leaves most students wondering when will they have a real teacher again. While there have been teacher shortages everywhere, Robinson especially has been a victim of this with a multitude of unfilled positions in both the math and physics departments. After the previous physics teacher of the 2022-23 school year, Sophie Weslati, took a leave of absence, Robinson received a new physics teacher, Robert Hart. Hart went on to teach for the first few weeks of school when he received a job offer in Iowa. Luckily, Russel Pienias took the open position and is the new physics teacher, hopefully, for the rest of the year. Not only have these leaves affected the physics department but also the math department. Joshua Gutierrez, a former math teacher at Robinson, had to transfer schools and now teaches at Sumner High School due to the distance between his home and Robinson. This unexpected vacancy has left many kids without a teacher and has them worrying about what

What About NOOP? RHS introduces an unavoidable lunch tutoring program By BRIANNA YASIS, STAFF WRITER Last month, Robinson established a lunch tutoring program called the “No Opt Out Program,” also known as NOOP. This plan was meant to give students the opportunity to catch up on their missing schoolwork. In the beginning of the week, teachers send student names to Lora Morgan, Robinson’s climate and culture resource teacher and manager of NOOP. Then those students are given a lunch pass on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday to do their makeup work. However, people might start to notice that the program is only limited to freshmen and sophomore students. “It [NOOP] is available if they [11th and 12th grade students] want to, we’re just focusing on the 9th and 10th graders because they’re the ones who are getting used to high school [and] they’re getting used to all these assignments,” Morgan said. Currently, NOOP is only running during traditional lunches. “We haven’t found that IB students are struggling academically as much, and we just haven’t seen the need for it with IB yet,” Morgan said. With this newfound program, teachers and students have been adjusting these past few months with some stating their opinions and suggestions. “I think they should’ve coordinated it better, not only the teachers but the students because I know me, and a lot of other people are very confused,” Lily Clark (‘27) said. “Nobody knew what subject they were getting tutoring in...I feel like there could’ve been better communication so that less people are confused.”

“So, I sort of have to teach myself and be my teacher.” Dave Brown, Robinson’s Principal, explained that these losses aren’t anything new, just unique to Robinson this school year. “This isn’t anything new when you’re in education this happens all the time teachers come and go... that’s just life, things happen. This year, it may be unique to Robinson because we normally don’t have a lot of people who leave Robinson, especially now we have a teacher will happen next with their grades. Brenda Seal shortage,” Brown said. “Right now, there are 28 one of the school’s now former math teachers high schools in Hillsborough County, and every had been helping partially substitute and assign high school averaging about four openings per work to the students after Gutierrez left, while school where they just don’t have teachers. The Robinson looked for a new teacher to fill the spot. way the job market is now there are so many Unfortunately, Seal also left Robinson due to an jobs out there for people that have some sort of offer at another school. educational skill. It’s not easy we’re constantly Gutierrez’s departure has left students without looking for new teachers. It’s sad for the kids because you’re getting used to a teacher.” a coherent plan for the future. Kelly Sandafer expressed how difficult it’s been for her to learn While these losses are hard to deal with, without a teacher. Brown keeps a positive outlook for the future of “It’s really hard to learn because I have to watch Robinson and its staff. videos and there is no one to hold me accountable “It’s hard because we’re trying to find people to or help me when I need help,” Sandafer said.

An empty classroom to resemble the effect of Robinson’s increasing loss of teachers. Photo by A. Miller. come into our industry and teach and there’s just not a lot of people out there, so it puts stress on the rest of us,” Brown said. “It’s hard we cope as best as we can and were just fortunate.”

Robinson is a Purple Star School for their First Time Robinson was awarded the designation of a Purple Star School on Friday, Nov. 10 By VIKRAM SAMBASIVAN, CO-EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Being a military brat is no easy feat. Changing homes, changing countries, moving (at times) thousands of miles away from friends and changing schools. As education becomes increasingly important in one’s future, changing schools becomes an even more arduous task; it is during these transitional times the school can really make a difference. For this reason, in 2021, Fla. legislature established the Florida Purple Star of Distinction. This designation is available in many states, but it has yet to be established on a state-by-state basis. On Friday, Nov. 10, the Florida Department of Education announced Robinson as one of Hillsborough County’s Purple Star Schools. The distinction will be awarded to Robinson through the 2025-2026 school year.

Point of Contact (MPOC), Military Webpage, Transition Programs and more. Due to Robinson’s proximity to MacDill Air Force Base and its long history helping military students, much of this infrastructure was already in place. “Our teachers get special training, and so do our social workers and psychologists and administrators on how to deal with, you know, families that are military because, you know, all the nuances that come with that, you know, all the moving and making sure we’re getting their transcripts right, making sure they’re in the right classes and all that,” said Principal David Brown.

there The [was] official one [or] purple maybe two star ribbon. “I think with the IB program specifically, we [teachers] that Photo from the “It’s an honor to be awarded that distinction, need to be flexible and allow them time to kind went above and Florida Departbeing that we have so many military families of catch up to where we’re at, because obviously beyond to make ment of Education and students at our school. It’s something that we hit the ground running before school even experience here I’m excited to say that we’re now a part of,” said starts in an English class. So it’s important to kind better,” he said. “I Lora Morgan, a climate and culture resource of give them the resources and then give them a think I just happened to get extremely lucky teacher who applied for the award. “We service reasonable timeline to kind of catch up... but still with the school. It happened to just be a large our students, our military families and provide kind of allow them to assimilate with the groups group of kind people and I have surprisingly loved services for them.” and the students can help them just as much as we everyone [since the] moment I’ve [gotten here].” can,” he said. “So I think that’s the biggest thing Despite the distinction being available since While Robinson does its best to help military is kind of giving them that flexibility, giving them 2021, this is the first year that Robinson applied students transition to their new school, the the confidence that they can actually do it.” for this status. Robinson community as a whole is ultimately While teachers were a large help, military enriched. “When I came to Robinson, I didn’t even know student Jake Abell (’24), who came to Robinson about a Purple Star school, and the military family in his sophomore year, believes that the Robinson “I just think everybody who comes to mentioned it to me and said, ‘Hey, you know, it Robinson and teaches here or learns here is under community as a whole is what really helped his would really mean a lot to us families if you guys transition. the expectation that there’s going to be military could become a Purple Star school,’” Morgan said. families and students here and so I think it’s a part “I personally always try to have a professional of the fabric of our culture,” Smithers said. To become a Purple Star School, some of the relationship with my teachers, but I can say that requirements include having a school Military Eric Smithers, an IB English Teacher who formerly taught traditional English classes, deals with these transitional issues every school year.

Capturing Creativity RHS Students Embrace Poetry Jam Robinson’s annual Poetry Workshop and Poetry Jam inspire students to express themselves through Spoken Word By WHITTALEY BOWDEN, SENIOR STAFF WRITER Robinson poets were buzzing with excitement as the annual PTSA Poetry Workshop and Poetry Jam.

Despite the fact that there are some who don’t mind having NOOP, there are some who don’t find it as beneficial as it should be. “It doesn’t really help that much,” Bronson Curry (‘26) said. “I went there, and I got like one page done; it feels like jail to be honest.”

(From left to right) Media Specialist Shannon Chamberlin, Simon Robinson (‘24), Kaylee Callan (‘26), Danni Allison (‘25) and Charles Hines celebrate the winners for this years poetry jam. Photo by W. Bowden

The jam occurred on two days in two separate weeks in November in the Media Center. The workshop was not just a showcase of talent, but a platform for students to discover their inner poet and compete for cash prizes to participate in this year’s poetry district-level poetry competition. This year’s professional spoken word poet,

Charles Hines joined this year’s event bringing his ten years of experience to guide the students in writing and performing poetry. “Poetry is just freedom and expression. I look at my writing as a place where I can just put all these feelings and thoughts that I feel like are too bad or too scary for the world,” Hines said. Hines expressed his excitement about participating in the event. Hines is

genuinely honored to have a platform where he can inspire and encourage the younger generation of poets. “It’s an honor. This is my third year doing the poetry jams and when I tell you I get terrified every year because I feel like we all go through it as artists, just kind of worrying that you’ll be accepted... For the rest of the story, visit knightwriters.org

OPINION

Editorial: Teachers are Quitting and it’s not Just Because of Pay Teachers are burning out at a record rate, why does nobody seem to care? By KNIGHT WRITERS STAFF It used to be simple. Parents send their kids to school to learn. The children progressed through the grades, many graduating high school and many of those graduates heading off to universities of their choice. Those were the good ol’ days. According to the EdWeek, teachers are quitting at a record rate, job satisfaction rates are down 19% since 2012 and many teachers feel like they have lost control. Although dwindling teacher pay has been at the forefront of the conversation, there are a multiple factors contributing to this atmosphere of discontent.

to succeed outside of school, they forgot something: you need marketable skills and somewhat of an impressive work ethic to succeed without a solid education. Even becoming an influencer requires substantial work, marketing experience, and the ability to negotiate and deal with brand deals. Without simple skills, you will only get exploited by those who do.

The importance of education seems to be lost on many An illustration depicting no teacher in a typical English class. students now. Turned cynical by Illustruation by J. Mitchner the numerous stories of college graduates crushed by student to an atmosphere of disrespect education system on a countydebt and working at a fast food towards teachers. Groups like level. Making education funding restaurant, students have begun Moms for Liberty are known – without attaching strings – a to shift emphasis away from Once schools were forced for antagonizing and targeting state and national priority will education. into e-learning due to the teachers and administrators. also help. COVID-19 pandemic, students In Fla., increasingly strict laws A solution? Emphasize a skillThe national atmosphere of were disconnected from school. regulating the books and topics focused education. Students who disrespect towards teachers can graduate with a bachelor’s degree You were no longer in the teachers and teach, some even only be changed by one way: classroom, no longer facing in poetry complain about not reaching the college level, just parents distancing themselves your teacher, no longer forced being able to find a job when furthers this burnout which from their children’s education. they failed to take advantage of to be engaged in class. With seems to be afflicting teachers Yes, still hire tutors, help your e-learning students were free their college education and learn everywhere. kids with homework, but don’t some marketable skills. If we to put a teacher on mute, turn Finally, teacher pay is one of tell teachers what to teach. off their camera and take a nap. make arts an important part of Children growing up in a nation education, yet accompany that The opposite effect was there for the largest issues contributing to teacher burnout. In that claims to be free deserve parents. Now that school was with a larger emphasis on STEM Hillsborough County especially, freedom of knowledge, freedom based learning, we can continue brought home, parents began to of education. They deserve to be to progress as a nation without supervise and even micromanage there is animosity between teachers and the county over taught how the teachers – the their children’s education. having a large unemployed and pay disputes. Fighting each trained professionals – want indebted population. Some teachers were able to year to get decent pay amongst to teach. Parents can tell their power through this time with The foundation of a country rising inflation and cost of living children what they want at an end in sight. However, when in the Tampa Bay Area, some is its education. The children home and let them form their student’s returned to school, are its future, and if a country teachers are even forced to get own opinion; but, they should they kept these e-learning cannot effectively educate its second jobs. It’s hard to focus not be deprived. habits. Many teachers began to on teaching your students when children, it can’t survive in the What used to be considered quit because of not only their long term. Focusing on a skillyou have to focus on where an important, foundational, ill-behaved and ill-equipped based education and answering you’ll get your next paycheck. respectable profession has students, but also because of a the question, “how can I use this The issue of teacher pay become seen as a joke. And, seemingly broken trust between in real life,” will not only end can only foreseeably be solved frankly, this shift is idiotic. Once teacher burnout in the longparents and teachers. through a thorough reallocation students went into e-learning term, but better equip students This broken trust has also led of funds and streamlining the and began to see the many ways in the short-term.

Gingerbread, A Treat For The Ages The greatest treat for the holidays By COLETON RONE, STAFF WRITER Gingerbread, a staple of Christmas amongst other fine cuisines, is an over-hated masterpiece. I love gingerbread and if you don’t, I hate to say it, but you’re just flat out wrong. Gingerbread just makes me feel so giddy and whimsical.

I used to eat the wall’s. Good times. Gingerbread houses and gingerbread men are a staple of Christmas, as well as the whimsy and joy which they bring. It’s like a tasty little It is an exquisitely delicious treat; the doll, bursting with taste is like none other. The taste is so emotions and feelings. sweet and invokes the feeling of Christmas I believe that we all inside every person that consumes even a have shared experiences morsel of it; no other cookie can bring out with the wonderous time the holiday cheer as well. The absolutely of building a gingerbread stunning combination of cinnamon, house. Pouring your heart ginger and cloves blend perfectly to create and soul into every detail the most complete taste to ever land on of your little creations, a person’s plate. Gingerbread has a warm like a god. The creativity spice to it along with the sweetness, truly and expression you’re able to a spectacular combination, no other baked put into the architecture and style of every good can compare to the nature of the one of your little gingerbread creations is superb baked treat that is gingerbread. It a feeling like no other, not to mention the also has healing properties, due to having scrumptious earthly taste. It truly brings out ginger and cinnamon, and being absolutely the whimsical imagination of every soul that mouthwatering unlike its inferior ginger lays a finger upon the magnificent creation brethren: ginger snaps, ginger-lemon, ginger that is gingerbread. molasses. Gingerbread much like its taste, has It brings a rich and flavorful history. It has been me back a delicious treat since the times of the to my Greeks and Egyptians, when they used it childhood, for ceremonial purposes. Later making its of RHS back to when way westward to the fine lands of Europe I lived in a during the 11th century, even the crusaders students like gingerbread wanted a piece of that sweet, yummy house with gingerbread. treat. Once gingerbread made its way to my dear old Data collected from a poll Europe, it evolved as taste palates became grandmother. more saccharine and sumptuous. In the on @rhsknightwriters on I remember Instagram. 16th Century, The English replaced the

68%

A decorated gingerbread house. Photo courtesy of Sabrina Gonzalez

Editors’ Letter

By VIKRAM SAMBASIVAN & CHARLOTTE STONE, CO-EDITORS-IN-CHIEF As we begin to end the second quarter, the Knight Writers bring you our second issue of the school year. We have multiple stories covering teachers quitting on both a national and more localized level; we urge you to please take the time to read them. Without our teachers, the quality of education which we receive at Robinson would not be possible and without an education, most of us will have very little luck with the future. After having weathered the first semester ever in the newly constructed school, we have an action-packed second semester approaching: spring sports, (hopefully) another senior skip day, prom and unfortunately, exams. As seniors, however, the second semester has a deeper meaning. As the first comes to a close, we are forced to look to the future, a future beyond Robinson. With exam prep quickly bringing us closer to that ultimate goal of graduation, this transition is all the more bittersweet Regardless of what the future entails for any of us, let’s end this first semester on a good note by reading some of the amazing stories in this latest issue.

Knight Writers This Knight Writers newspaper is produced by the Journalism II-V class at Robinson High School. Editors-in-Chief Vikram Sambasivan Charlotte Stone Print Managing Editor Cecilia Cheng News & Features Editor Yesenia Rosario Sports Editor Ashlyn Miller Opinion Editor Keirra McGoldrick A&E & Multimedia Editor Jadyn Grayes

scrumptious breadcrumbs with flour and added eggs and sweeteners, bringing us to the modern form of gingerbread. But where art thou, my fine little gingerbread legion, the gingerbread man is royalty, after all it was created by Queen Elizabeth the 1st. Ah the good times back when I was a richer man, you could call me, the monopoly man. Gingerbread is one of God’s many gifts to humanity, the mouthwatering flavor seeping into the furthest crevasses of any person’s mouth. The whimsical nature and creative process of crafting any fine gingerbread creation is truly an experience to behold. If any inhabitants of Earth dislike gingerbread, they should be chastised, for gingerbread truly is the greatest treat of the holiday season.

Senior Staff Writer Whittaley Bowden Briana Garcia Janiece Mitchner Malia Rodriguez

Grace Shafer Araya Stearns Staff Writer Winter Carbajal Mikesha Clarke Jordan De La Cruz Jennie Gutman Sophie Le Jasmyn Mitchner Heather Parker Anika Sanka Sofia Scott Ryan Rolle Coleton Rone Gabriella Treviño Joseph Treviño Brianna Yasis Publications Adviser Nancy Webster Principal David Brown

Mission Statement The role and goal of the Knight Writers is to inform, interpret and entertain their viewers through accurate and factual reports, and be accurate, fair and impartial in its coverage of issues that affect the school community. The staff of Knight Writers will strive to report all issues in a legal, objective, accurate and ethical manner, according to the Canons of Professional Journalism developed by the Society for Professional Journalists. Policies For more information about the staff policies, follow this link https://knightwriters.org/about/staff-policies/ Publication Memberships

FEATURES

No More Bad Days With Croslay Madeline Curts (’24) starts a crochet business to illustrate how creativity and expression can help one destress By CECILIA CHENG, PRINT MANAGING EDITOR When some people have a bad day, they make cookies with their friends, take time to have a spa day and journal or jam out to music in their car. But for senior Madeline Curts, she digs through her yarn collection, gets out her crochet hooks from the corner of her room and pulls up the latest crochet pattern or inspiration she has found on Pinterest.

Croslay did not start overnight. A lot of work behind the scenes went into making the business possible. The most important part of any business would be its name. Curts highlights how coming up with the name Croslay remains to be one of the most memorable experiences she has had with this project. “We were in the percussion room one day discussing. Madeline kept on saying slay a bunch of times and suddenly I blurted out Croslay,” said Karis Wilson (’24) who helped Curts come up with the name. “I thought it was a perfect day because Madeline is really good at crocheting and I think there is such a special meaning being why she does it too.”

The purpose of Croslay is to encourage others Everyone has their own way of expressing to engage in their creativity, and for Curts it is through her art or another newfound love for crocheting. hobby as “I learned to crochet back when I was eight, a stress but I wasn’t very good,” Curts said. “I picked it up outlet. again around February of this year, and I found it Curts very relaxing and enjoyable.” claims that what Besides crocheting as a hobby, Curts has turned prompted her craft into a business. Curts’ business, Croslay, her to was started at the beginning of Oct. and since start the then has gained popularity after its first sale of business multicolored mini dinosaurs. was when she had “I first started with some left over yarn that I had from fourth grade and I started crochet some her English Individual Oral (IO), hats and dinosaurs. From there, people started a ten-minute oral requesting specific animals and I was able to put examination about the the money back into the business. My friends analysis of two works encouraged me to make this into a business and given to IB students I’m so glad I did,” Curts said.

Check out this

during their junior year. With so many expressing their excitement for Curts’ craft, she begins to develop the business this school year. “I think it’s always cool when someone as young as we are makes their own business because it’s something you don’t really see often, especially with Madeline being in IB and the workload we all have,” Cereza Perez (’24) said, who received a bag from Curts as a birthday present. “It’s really inspiring to watch her put so much time and effort into something she enjoys and get something out of it.” Future projects and drops are to come for the growing business. Curts is currently experimenting with creating some new products, such as mushroomshaped chapstick holders. Custom orders are also currently being taken. If you are interested in purchasing from Croslay, DM Curts through Instagram @ cro.slay_

Karis Wilson (‘24) and RJ Sharp (‘24) models with Curts’ dinos. Wilson and Sharp are Curts’ closest friends who encoruaged her to start Croslay. “I was excited to see Madeline start Croslay after seeing her love for crocheting and I always love a good small business,” Sharp said. Photo courtesy of Madeline Curts

“Right now, I’m working on some bags. I’m also coming up with some original patterns for chapstick holders. The upcoming breaks will allow Croslay to flourish as I will have extra time to give it attention. I’m excited to see what is next for Croslay,” Curts said. Julia Barrett (‘24) holds one of Curts’ stress relieving dinosaurs. Photo courtesy of Madeline Curts

A tote bag made by Curts. Photo courtesy of Madeline Curts

Knightmare Re-Vamps Knightmar-ish Bathrooms The school spirit club, Knightmare, has been tasked with giving the gym bathrooms a much-needed facelift. By ASHLYN MILLER, SPORTS EDITOR

on knightwriters.org

Alivia Cocchiola

Glams Up After Hours Junior Alivia Cocchiola expresses herself on her eyelids rather than a canvas. By YESENIA ROSARIO, NEWS & FEATURES EDITOR

Robinson’s makeover and school. mirrors and drew many designs rebuilding process has been nearly all over the bathroom. The project “He [Brown] simply just wanted completed as of late, however, is still a work in progress, so we the bathrooms to look nicer and we still have lots to do such as fixing one section of the school stays could use our creativity to create a untouched. Permanently stuck in the toilet seats and the soap new space for visitors and students the 1970s, the bathrooms in the dispensers,” Kuklen said. to enjoy when getting a glimpse of lobby of the auditorium and gym Robinson,” Kuklen said. “The project In any free time they have in have sat untouched despite the that was asked of us was to renovate their already packed schedules, rest of the school seeing upgrades. the bathrooms in whatever way we Kuklen and her Vice President, Being the area of the school most wanted. Both bathrooms are filled Nate Clement (’25) bring in their seen by visitors and parents while with two different themes. The boys’ club members and arm them with attending sporting events and various bathroom is space-themed, while the paintbrushes and screwdrivers. performances, Principal David girls are beach/ocean-themed. The Brown thought it was best that Heading the space-themed Robinson make a continuous effort bathrooms are very different from men’s restroom, Clement wants one another and required lots of hard to put their best foot forward. these new restrooms to make work.” Robinson stand out to visiting “I wanted some clubs, some Mina Kuklen (’24) adds details to kelp The renovation is not limited to teams and parents as the spirited students to leave their mark on on the stalls of the women’s restroom in aesthetics, however. The club will community it is. the school,” Brown said. “We got the gym. Photo courtesy of Mina Kuklen also be re-vamping the appliances in remodeled, but there are some places “It promotes a cool conversation these last-century lavatories, not just they didn’t touch… I just felt as around school and creates a little bit gives the students in Knightmare a painting the walls and the stalls. though they needed sprucing up.” chance to leave their mark on the of excitement and spirit whenever school and South Tampa. “For the boys, they painted the you go in them,” Clement said. “I The largest of Robinson’s many entire ceiling, added planets, painted think it’s also cool for someone who clubs, Knightmare was decidedly the “When kids take time and invest best suited for the task. Knightmare stalls, changed the mirrors and more. doesn’t come to Robinson …. to see in their school, they take great pride For the girl’s bathroom, they drew the school spirit that we have here.” President Mina Kuklen (’24) was in that and they did a great job with murals on the stalls, changed the excited to leave a lasting mark on the This simple yet rewarding project these restrooms,” Brown said.

FEATURES

Robinson Goes Global Meet some of the newest students at Robinson By CHARLOTTE STONE, CO-EDITOR-IN-CHIEF & YESENIA ROSARIO, NEWS & FEATURES EDITOR Due to Robinson’s close proximity to the MacDill Air Force Base, a variety of new students pool in every year making Robinson no stranger to foreign students. This year, Robinson has received a handful of students from all over the globe due to military displacement, a few being freshman Aiaru Akylvayeva and sophomore Lucie Jassey.

Jassey Joins the Robinson Community

Aiaru Akylvayeva Acclimates To Robinson

From Paris to Tampa, Jassey joins the Robinson community

Aiaru Akylvayeva (‘27) travels from Kazakhstan to America

By CHARLOTTE STONE, CO-EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

By YESENIA ROSARIO, NEWS & FEATURES EDITOR

At Robinson, the MacDill Air Force base is close by, inviting Lucie Jassey. She's not just any new student, though – she's part of a mix of students who's roots aren't laid down in America. From baguettes to football, Jassey brings her culture to Robinson.

and the thing she misses the most is French food, her favorite being "raclette." "Raclette" is a traditional dish that consists of cheese melted over a baked potato filled with toppings such as ham. Jassey would usually enjoy this meal on a cold day to warm her up and brighten her mood.

Jassey arrived from Paris in July of 2023, just in time for her sophomore year. She came with her family after her father, a member of the military, was relocated to Tampa where they will be staying for the next two years.

Even though Jassey will be heading home to France in two years, she is considering coming back to the US for college.

Traveling thousands of miles from her home regain some of her English skills due to the many country of Kazakhstan, Aiaru Akylvayeva returns years living in the US. to the United States. "It's really tough to make a lot of new friends Florida isn't Akylvayeva's first destination in because of the language. In my country, we speak the States. Akylvayeva and her family previously two languages at the same time [Russian and lived in Washington when she was a toddler and Kazakh]," Akylvayeva said. New York for four years, only recently moving to Aside from language, the math curriculum Florida in October due to her father being active differs vastly from her old school. military.

After such a big move, Jassey was bound to feel nervous, but the transition to Robinson has been very smooth. She was impressed with the resources that Robinson offers to their military students and families, especially the "Student to Student" Organization.

"Maybe I would like to [come to university in America] because my school in France also [does] American graduation, so I will have two [diplomas]: a French one and an American one," Jassey said.

Despite the smooth transition, Jassey did face some challenges. She found the language barrier the most daunting, but has been able to overcome it due to her preparation in French school. She has been learning English since the age of six and is able to ask her teachers any clarifying questions if necessary. Moving 4,562 miles has been a massive shift that takes some time to adjust to. One of Jassey's favorite changes is the difference in weather.

Akylvayeva's adaption to Florida was successful, but she did experience both cultural and climate shocks. In Kazakhstan, during the fall and winter, it's cold and snowing, while in Tampa, it remains hot and humid. Akylvayeva also expressed that the cultural differences make it difficult to make new friends and adapt. The main example of this is language, however, she has managed to

"[The move] has been really good," Jassey said. "I love the weather, it's a lot warmer than France."

"In my country, math is really hard and these formulas make me crazy," Akylvayeva expressed. "[I'm taking] Algebra now, but in Kazakhstan, we take Algebra, Geometry and Physics at the same time and we have 16 lessons which are different every day." Another difference Akylvayeva experienced was the food. "In our country, we can't eat pork, but here [in America] there's pork everywhere," Akylvayeva said. 'I miss my home country food a lot. [I miss] Beshparmak [a cuisine consisting of horse meat, noodles, chopped onions and potatoes]. But I really like mac and cheese here. The portion sizes are much bigger than in my country." While Robinson is one of the smaller high schools in Hillsborough County, Akylvayeva finds it to be a lot larger than her old school back home. "The school [Robinson] is really big compared to my old school. I really like the students here and most of the teachers here are really nice," Akylvayeva said.

However, the differences are not restricted to the weather. Jassey has also found countless differences between Robinson and her former school in Paris. She finds that school in America has much more relaxed rules along with a stronger sense of community.

Although Akylvayeva has adapted well to life in Florida, she still feels homesick at times. "[I miss] my school and all my friends," Akylvayeva said. "I knew all the students and all the students knew me. I hung out a lot with my friends."

"[Robinson] is way less strict than school in France," Jassey remarked. "There is more communication between teachers and students."

Akylvayeva doesn’t know what’s to come in her future but does hope to remain in Florida.

Another major difference that Jassey noticed is the difference in fashion and dress code. While at Robinson it's not out of the ordinary to show up in a t-shirt, pajama pants and Crocs, this would not be acceptable at Jassey's former school. In France, it is expected that students are well dressed and many have to wear uniforms.

“In two to three years, years we may go back to Kazakhstan, but it depends on my dad’s work. But I hope I will graduate school in America,” Akylvayeva said.

Jassey and Akylvayeva sit smiling at eachother in front of an illusrated globe. Illustration by C. Stone

Although Jassey has loved her time in Tampa, it's only natural for her to feel a little homesick

A Guide to the Perfect Christmas Wishlist Learn how to create the perfect Wishlist to make the holiday season a breeze By JADYN GRAYES, A&E & MULTIMEDIA EDITOR The season of giving has rolled around and everyone has started planning what to gift their loved ones for Christmas, but it’s also the season of getting. Making a wish-list that you can send to all of your loved ones eases the process not only for you, but for them. It’s exhausting trying to pick a gift for someone and overthink whether it’s enough, or whether they’ll actually enjoy it. Here are the three necessities to curating the perfect Christmas wish-list to send to your friends and family:

Be organized: Always have a system for organizing your list. Either categorize them by price, type or store. This makes the list not only easier to read, but easier for most people to identify what to get you. They’ll know to look within their price range and can follow their general idea of what they planned to get you.

Be diverse: Adding a good range of gifts takes the pressure off of everyone getting you something. Asking for a series of items that go from big and small to inexpensive to pricy is far better than asking for only a few expensive items that are not generally affordable.

Be accessible: The first step is making a list that is easy to reach and look through. The days of sifting through magazines and circling what toys you want are over. I advise using Canva, PowerPoint or a word document so you can add links to all of the items on your list and share it easily. Save your loved ones from having to scour the internet and stores for the gifts you wish to receive, and simply show them where they can find it.

Hopefully this guide helps you have the most stress-free Christmas yet. However, the most important thing to keep in mind is that although getting gifts is certainly fun, it’s not everything. Base your happiness on being surrounded by your loved ones for the holiday season, not on receiving things. Illustration by Canva

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

Underrated and Overrated Christmas Music Christmas songs we either delete or repeat By RYAN ROLLE & JORDAN DE LA CRUZ, STAFF WRITERS Christmas music has already taken front stage in our everyday life, well before December has even hit. There are some songs that we have already been playing on repeat, while others we feel don’t live up to the hype. But with this season of Christmas classics, let this be a warning; there are simply too many amazing songs, making it unnecessary to listen to the same few mediocre songs. Here’s a list of our most overrated, but as well, a list of the most underrated.

and Mariah Carey’s voice and lyrics are even better. It would be deserving of any spot on a Christmas playlist, yet it is objectively the most overrated Christmas song out there. There are simply so many other, and arguably less generic holiday tunes to listen to, such as one very special song in our Underrated Playlist.

Knight Writers

Underrated and Overrated Christmas Music

Underrated 5: “Grandma Got Ran Over by a Reindeer” by Elmo and Patsy

Easily the best song on the playlist. “Grandma Got Ran Over by a Reindeer” is an emotional rollercoaster, bringing tears of both wonder and sadness to anyone worthy enough of listening to it. 5: “Here Comes Santa Claus” by Gene Autry This is, no question, one of the best holiday tunes here. The only To begin with, “Here Comes Santa Claus” is the most repetitive reason it’s not number one on the list is to bring more attention to and annoying Christmas song out there. Autry just repeats the same less well-known songs. Elmo and Patsy must’ve had a little bit extra 4 lines over and over again, paired with meaningless rhymes about Christmas cheer with this amazing harmonic sequence of beauty. getting presents. There is no unique sound, no interesting lyrics and 4: “Wonderful Christmastime” by Paul McCartney definitely does not get us excited for Christmas time.

Overrated

This song is just the epitome of Christmas cheer. McCartney wrote a song with a unique sound, a joyful tone, and lyrics that get At number four, this one is just creepy. We could’ve easily let this you in the mood for a cozy Christmas holiday. It’s not too upbeat, one stay in the idea box. The reason this song is overrated is because yet clearly spirited. We think that this popular song should get even we don’t think it should be played anywhere at all. The message more appreciation than it does already. is weird, the little chorus of kids singing it is unnerving, and it’s both confusing to kids and unfunny for adults. Overall, we deem it 3: “Christmas Tree Farm (Old Timey Version)” by Taylor Swift undeserving of even being called a “Christmas-Classic.” Our number three spot goes to Taylor Swift. Swift wrote a magical, romantic song that just transports you into the merry 3 : “Last Christmas” by Wham! season. The original is great as well, but the old timey version is In 1984, Wham! released the song that easily took the Christmas filled with warmth and a cozy feeling that you can’t really find in music landscape by storm. It is obvious why it’s such a fan favorite; many new songs. Her lyrics are upbeat and original, with a classic the tune is catchy and fun. With that being said, the song is given theme of love during the winter season. too much credit for its memorable phrases yet shaky lyrics. The only compliment we could give it is the amazing mop of hair atop 2: “Do they Know It’s Christmas Time?” by Band Aid of one of the lead singer’s head, within the music video. Apart from “Do They Know It’s Christmas Time?” is the most sincere and that positive, the song is generic, emotionless and bland. genuine of any other on the list. In fact, it was, in our opinion, the most invoking of any other holiday tune on this list. Its lyrics reveal 2: “All I Want for Christmas is My Two Front Teeth” by Spike a story that gets you to ponder, which is unlike any other song on Jones & His City Slickers this list. As objectively as we could be, this song just plain bad. Even as 1: “Underneath the Tree” by Kelly Clarkson an eight-year-old, I didn’t find this funny or amusing. The lyrics are random and irrelevant, the singer’s voice is so annoying and the “Underneath the Tree” by Kelly Clarkson, is fantastic, as well as a song is very repetitive. Everybody needs to remove this from their great contrast to the greatly overhyped “All I Want for Christmas Is Christmas playlist immediately. You” by Mariah Carey. Clarkson creates a song with creative lyrics, Christmas bells in the background and an energetic and wonderful 1 : “All I want for Christmas is you” by Mariah Carey Christmas feeling all throughout. Her vocals are incredible as And last of all, the easily most Overrated Christmas song on well, with an amazing bridge and catchy chorus. We believe that this list, on any list or playlist even. Of course, there is nothing Underneath the Tree should be the new iconic Christmas song. inherently wrong regarding the song; the instrumentals are fantastic 4: “I Saw Mommy Kissing Santa Claus” by The Jackson 5

“The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes” Is a Confusing Mess “The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes” released on Nov. 17. By WINTER CARBAJAL, STAFF WRITER

Official poster for “The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes.” Photo from IMDb To read the full story, visit knightwriters.org

Scan this code and listen along with us!

1. 2.

“All I want for Christmas is you” by Mariah Carey “All I Want for Christmas is My Two Front Teeth” by Spike Jones & His City Slickers 3. “Last Christmas” by Wham! 4. “I Saw Mommy Kissing Santa Claus” by The Jackson 5 5. “Here Comes Santa Claus” by Gene Autry 6. “Underneath the Tree” by Kelly Clarkson 7. “Do they Know it’s Christmas Time” by Band Aid 8. “Christmas Tree Farm (Old Timey Verison)” by Taylor Swift 9. “Wonderful Christmastime” by Paul McCartney 10. “Grandma Got Ran Over by a Reindeer” by Elmo and Patsy

Grammy Nominations Break the Mold: Over Half the Spotlight on Female Artists The nominations are in and they’re for the girls. By MALIA RODRIGUEZ, SENIOR STAFF WRITER It is well known that historically in the year, another seven out of eight the music industry, men have always nominations are also female artists. been on top. However, recently, this These records include “Antihas changed as not only are the top Hero” by Taylor Swift, “Kill 100 charts dominated by female Bill” by SZA, “vampire” musicians but so are the Grammy by Olivia Rodrigo, “On nominations. My Mama” by Victoria Moneta and “What Firstly, in arguably the biggest was I Made For?” by category of the year, album of Billie Ellish. Out the year, seven out of eight of the of these songs, nominations are women. These there was one albums include “Midnights” by that followed me Taylor Swift, “the record” by around anywhere I boygenius, “GUTS” by Olivia went and probably Rodrigo and “Did You Know that was played a few too There’s a Tunnel Under Ocean many times: “AntiBoulevard” by Lana Del Rey. Hero.” Even though it’s not my Personally, I think that every one favorite from this list, you can’t of these nominees deserves it but, deny this song was incredibly “Midnights” probably deserves it the popular and has also broken most. records. While the other albums on this On the other list are both lyrically and production- hand, for alternative wise amazing, “Midnights” is truly album and music an amazing album for many reasons. performance It was the first album to occupy of the year, I every spot on the Billboard Top Ten believe “Did list and broke the record for most You Know record sales in a week. It also is a that There’s gorgeously produced album by one a Tunnel of the most talented artists of our Under generation and has so many hit songs Ocean that it’s not even comparable to any Boulevard” other album on this list. and “A&W” by In another category, record of

Lana Del Rey truly

deserve to win. Both the album and this song were revolutionary to me and many others have highlighted the talent of Del Rey as not only a

songwriter but also a performer, contrasting her previous critique of being ‘boring to watch.’ And finally, the artist with the most nominations overall is SZA with a grand total of nine for Record of the Year, Album of the Year, Song of the Year, Best Pop Duo/ Group Performance, Best R&B Performance, Best Traditional R&B Performance, Best R&B Song Best Progressive and R&B Best Melodic Rap Performance. This is incredibly impressive and deserved as SZA is another one of the best artists right now and one who is incredibly talented. Overall, this year’s nominations are fantastic and really do represent the best of the best musical artists of this year and the fact that they are mostly women is great to see. Every single one of these nominations is deserved and I’m excited to see the results. An illustration of a grammy. Illustration by Janiece Mitchner

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

Check out these knightwriters.org exclusive stories “The Holdovers” Is An Absolute Masterpiece

The Naked Farmer Expanding Healthy Takeout Options in Tampa

Will you be a Holdover?

The Naked Farmer is taking over Tampa and revolutionizing fast food.

By COLETON RONE, STAFF WRITER “The Holdovers,” released Friday, Nov. 10, is an amazing, must-see movie. The setting, the acting and the plot all combine...

By JADYN GRAYES, A&E & MULTIMEDIA EDITOR After almost two years prospering at Sparkman Wharf, farm-to-table restaurant The Naked Farmer has opened a new pick-up/delivery location only at...

Holiday Themed “Date” Ideas

Restaurant Classics at Home

Embrace the holiday cheer with these festive and fun “date” ideas By SOPHIE LE, STAFF WRITER night with an entertaining outdoor movie at Curtis Hixon Park on select weekends during Dec. One exciting movie playing Dec. 16 at 7 p.m. is the holiday classic: “Elf.” Grab yourself a holiday drink at one of the cafés and enjoy the movie with your special person. A fun and festive date! Busch Gardens Christmas town $$$ From Nov. 11- Jan. 7, Busch Gardens will hold a Christmas town full of exciting activities such as Santa’s North Pole, Rudolph’s Winter Wonderland and the Holy Jolly Express. You can stroll around and enjoy the Christmas themed activities alongside the fun rides. This is a fun date that will ensure holiday cheer and no boredom! Viewing Christmas Lights (FREE)

Helena Urrea (’26) strolls down Christmas town at Busch Gardens with her boyfriend. Photo courtesy of Helena Urrea Christmas is all about spending time with the people you love. So, what better way to celebrate the holiday season than by enjoying these festive “date” ideas with your special someone. Curtis Hixon Park’s Outdoor Movies (FREE) Replace your traditional home movie

One inexpensive but fun date idea is to drive around neighborhoods and look at people’s houses decorated with Christmas Lights. Some of my favorite neighborhoods to drive around in are Hyde park or Culbreath Isles. This one is free – besides the gas money!

Christmas movies and an interactive barnyard. This is a cute and whimsical Christmas date, a must see for any couples who love Christmas lights!

Drive down to St. Petersburg from Nov. 24- Dec. 31 for an extravaganza of holiday fun! Equipped with a village of holiday storefronts, a light maze, ice skating trail and a Santa’s meeting area. Straz Center’s Next Generation Ballet’s Nutcracker $$ A fan of ballet? Or just want to enjoy some holiday themed entertainment? Get dressed up and visit the Straz Center during Dec. 21- Dec. 23 for a graceful show of the infamous “Nutcracker.” Not only is it perfect for the holiday season, but it is also something great to experience with your partner. Metropolitan Ministries (FREE)

Tampa Bay’s Festival of Lights $$

The holiday season is all about giving back. Volunteering is a great way to spend time with your partner while doing something meaningful for your community.

Visit Hillsborough County’s fairgrounds during the weekends of Nov. 23-Dec. 31 for a 2-mile-long drive through tunnel of over 1 million Christmas lights! It will lead to Santa’s Village which includes holiday themed rides including Santa Craft Stations,

As the weather gets colder during the holiday season, create warm and cheery memories with your significant other. No matter which activity you choose to do this holiday season, it is ensured to be unforgettable.

Kanye West makes his return to music By GABRIELLA TREVIÑO, STAFF WRITER After making extremely controversial comments, Kanye “Ye” West took nearly a year long hiatus from releasing music and has since been involving himself in more fashion related controversies. However, when the clock struck midnight on Wednesday, Nov. 22, exactly 13 years after the release of his Grammy Award winning album, “My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy,” West dropped his new collaborative song with Ty Dolla $ign and Bump J titled “Vultures.”

West just wasn’t bringing enough energy to this release and wasn’t actually cloned. For a comeback, “Vultures” did not fulfill expectations. The initial release of “Vultures” on Chicago radio station “WPWX Power 92 Chicago” also featured Lil Durk, who had collaborated with West once before in 2022. The reason for Durk’s removal from the track is currently unknown and very unfortunate. Durk’s verse, which is still found on SoundCloud uploads of the song, brought more energy than Bump J and West combined. Currently uncredited on Apple Music, 2 Eleven delivers arguably the most musically Dolla $ign’s verse came out on top, being interesting twenty seconds of the song in the most personal and actually showing the outro. While the lyrics themselves aren’t some variety. After my fifth listen, Bump J’s of much substance, the production and verse about nothing in particular did start to delivery of the outro is able to make it stand grow on me though. out. West’s verse, however, doesn’t really sound Despite my dissatisfaction, I did not like him. While some of what West says in hate the song. It was simply not what I was “Vultures” is relevant and on-brand (risky anticipating and did not have much musical and unapologetic), I’ve heard AI-created identity. I am optimistically awaiting the songs that sound more like him. Hopefully, rest of the album and its hopeful recovery

The official album cover for “Vultures.” Photo from Rap Up

During my initial listen, I was somewhat disappointed. Besides the intro and outro, the song lacked the creativity and energy that fans of past albums had come to expect from West and seemed to fall flat. After nearly two decades of inventive uses of samples and wordplay, the production seemed relatively simple and the lyrics cheap.

By WHITTALEY BOWDEN, SENIOR STAFF WRITER

St. Petersburg’s Enchant Christmas $$

This is the Same Guy Who Made “Graduation?”

Similar to KIDS SEE GHOSTS, the supergroup made up of West and Kid Cudi, West’s upcoming album is expected to be released as a collaborative project with Dolla $ign and listed under ¥$’s own profile on streaming platforms as well as both artists’ profiles.

From dine-out to dine-in recreating restaurant favorites at home

Homemade version of the Bull Market’s Ginger Beef Bowl. Photo by W. Bowden In the heart of Tampa, Bull Market is a culinary haven where bold flavors collide. Their Ginger Beef Bowl, a symphony of textures and tastes, has captured my heart and redefined my Tampa dining experiences. Each time I go to Bull Market, it’s like embarking on an exciting journey, all because I’m eager to taste that amazing Ginger Beef Bowl again. Driven by my passion for this delectable dish, I decided to recreate it at home on my own. Armed with a recipe for Korean Beef Bulgogi, I set out to recreate the magic that is the Ginger Beef Bowl from Bull Market. The recipe promised a super easy process with a flavorful marinade – exactly what I needed to capture the essence of my favorite restaurant dish. To make my own version of the Ginger Beef Bowl, I started with a bulgogi recipe as a base and added ginger and a few other ingredients that I thought would complement the dish well. As I gathered the ingredients, each one was carefully chosen to match the unique taste of the Bull Market’s Ginger Beef Bowl. The thinly sliced beef, grated Asian pear, soy sauce, brown sugar, toasted sesame oil, garlic, ginger and the essential gochujang (Korean red pepper paste) came together like a harmonious symphony of flavors. Ingredients: •

1 cup of cooked Jasmine Rice

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2 tablespoons of Sesame Oil

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1 tablespoon of Ginger

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1/2 cup thinly sliced Onion

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2 Green Onions thinly sliced

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1 fried Egg

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1/4 cup of Carrot

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1/4 cup of Spinach

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Thinly sliced beef (rib-eye or sirloin)

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1/4 cup of Soy Sauce

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2 tablespoons of brown sugar

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3 cloves of minced garlic

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2 tablespoons of sesame oil

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1 teaspoon of Sesame Seeds

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1/2 of a small Asian Pear.. for the full receipe, visit knightwriters.org

SPORTS

Freshman Brennan Baryza Sets the Pace as the XC Team’s Top Runner

A Final Season to Remember: Donevon Kelly

Brennan Baryza (‘27) leads Robinson’s cross country team

Donevon Kelly plays his last season with Robinson

By ANIKA SANKA, STAFF WRITER

By JASMYN MITCHNER, STAFF WRITER

Cross country champion Brennan Baryza (’27) has shown incredible speed, soaring up the ranks to become the fastest runner on the girls XC team in just her first year at Robinson. This is her second year doing cross country, as she previously ran with her school’s XC team in seventh grade, and then started again this fall season.

growing and doing what we need to do to improve. He’s the one who told me when you settle into a slow pace [on races] you can tell yourself you’re going to speed up later but you’re really not, and you’re going to stay there. Starting out faster on races has been really helpful for my times,” Baryza said.

most people have other engagements like vacations but you could really see her commitment. Then at the beginning of the school year, she got really into it and when she started racing you could just see her potential, and it was really cool seeing that happen,” said Bryn White (’25), captain of the girls cross country team.

“My parents always said I would enjoy running, and once I started it was hard to stop. I like running with a team because it forces you to run so you can get to the part where it’s fun, and when you’re not in shape it’s not fun,” Baryza said.

While it took some years of cross-country to get to her level, Baryza progressed incredibly fast.

With the cross country team being at the small size of six girls, her enthusiastic viewpoint during races is also enjoyed by her teammates.

The team has a rigorous training schedule including team practices five days a week morning or afternoon. They also dedicate one day over the weekend for solo training. During the week, the runners power through hard workouts at Picnic Island.

“In the summer, I couldn’t run three miles without stopping “When we work out at Picnic and then when Island, we have to do these 800 I got to four sprints, it’s sandy, it’s grassy, it’s miles, I was so difficult and that’s when most excuses happy to do it come up and pushing through those at 8’15 pace. really showed me that I’m able to My last mile overcome these obstacles and prepared was 6’30. It’s me for races,” Baryza said. crazy looking at the improvement Along with cross country, Baryza you can have,” said balances the responsibilities of being Baryza. an IB student and participating in the marching band. She proved her Many leaders on the dedication to the sport by attending team admired Baryza’s every practice. When she was limited startling improvement by marching band on Tuesdays and and were inspired by her Thursdays, she personally went out of growth as a runner. her way to schedule solo sessions in the morning before school with XC “Starting from the coach, Mark Altamari. summer she was running the same amount as the “Altamari always makes sure we’re team and summer’s when

“Brennan is an incredible teammate and she has a lot of integrity. She just gets along with everyone and is really fast. She has a great work ethic because at the beginning of the summer, we were all out of shape but she worked really hard and now she’s really fit and can run four miles in like 27 minutes,” said fellow teammate Reid Taggart (’26). Baryza hopes to finish the season strong and will continue on to join the soccer team and potentially the track team. She’s also decided to persist in her cross-country career all four years of high school and run in college if, with a very likely possibility, she gets recruited. “If anyone else wants to try it [xc] it’s just about breaking past barriers. Once you’re there, it’s really cool to just see how fast you can go,” Baryza said. Brennan Baryza running during a cross country practice. Photo courtesy of Ally Steele

In the heart of SOG, the basketball court at Robinson High School will be front seat to the final season of now senior, Donevon Kelly. With his signature blend of skill, leadership and resilience, Kelly has showcased an unwavering commitment to excellence throughout his years with Robinson basketball. “This being my senior year I’m excited for the season now that i get to lead the team, and everyone’s like a little brother to me,” Kelly said. The court became a stage for his mastery, each game a canvas where his talent and passion painted a story of success. After being ranked top 11 in 4A district he has shown a lot for the team the past two years leaving fans expecting no less for his senior Donevon Kelly (‘24) jumping to make a basket against BHS. Photo by K. year. McGoldrick

“Donevon’s dedication to the game is different from everyone’s even with him starting a year late. I think going to help lead the team far this season,” said Jordan Mickens (‘25), one of Kelly’s teammates. However, Kelly’s journey wasn’t without challenges. Overcoming setbacks and adversities, he demonstrated resilience that defined his character, setting an example for fellow teammates. Even after losing a hard game, Kelly was there to uplift the team and get their mind focused on the next game.

With graduation on the horizon, Kelly prepares for the next chapter, carrying the valuable lessons learned on the court. Kelly expresses his desire to keep playing basketball during his college years. For the upcoming season Kelly still has goals he wants to accomplish. “My expectations are to win districts and then whatever game [after and] that we just play our best. I just want to play as much as I can, since it’s my senior year,” Kelly said.

Knights Lacrosse Foundation Inspires New Generations Of Players Knights Lacrosse Foundation inspires youth through free lacrosse clinics By CHARLOTTE STONE, CO EDITOR-IN-CHIEF The Knights Lacrosse Foundation, founded and run by Robinson’s very own boy’s lacrosse coach, Ryan Becker, provides a “free-of-pay” model for kids in the South Tampa area to play lacrosse. This program includes all the necessary equipment and coaching for free. The goal of the foundation is to empower young people to pursue lacrosse.

players, many of whom are selected from the Youth Development tier. As a part of the KLC, these players attend biweekly practices that focus on drills and honing the players’ skills. The final tier is the Junior Knight Scholarship which provides opportunities to the more exceptional student-athletes in hopes of pushing them to the next level.

“Knights Lacrosse Foundation positively impacts our community As of right now, the Knights Lacrosse Foundation works with by removing all barriers and allowing access to any and all youth to Robinson along with Madison Middle School and Roland Park K-8 play the sport of lacrosse for free while instilling our ‘earn-it’ culture Magnet School, but hopes to spread across the county and connect of core principles including relentless work ethic, accountability with as many schools as possible. and discipline,” Becker said. Becker is very dedicated to the cause and through help from The Knights Lacrosse Foundation has three tiers of development. sponsors and donations, the foundation has been able to serve 323 The first tier is Youth Development which introduces lacrosse to students and has given away 32 sticks, 27 helmets and 26 gloves. young kids through free clinics and equipment. The next tier is the “I am passionate about this cause and serving our community Knights Lacrosse Club (KLC). This club consists of higher level

Kyler Courtermanch (‘26) shows young lacrosse players technique during one of the Knights Lacrosse Foundation’s free youth clinics. Photo courtesy of James Ishee

The Knights Lacrosse Foundation closing out a free youth clinic with their team chant. Photo courtesy of James Ishee

because of what the sport of lacrosse has provided me in my life,” Becker said. “From a strong network professionally, to the family of teammates and team-first mentality cultivated over the years, I believe anyone in our community deserves the same opportunity in the most accessible way possible.” The Robinson boys lacrosse team is closely linked with this organization and the players give back to the foundation by volunteering to help teach the younger clinics. “It’s a completely free way to get [local kids] moving and active, while also learning lacrosse,” said Christian Norriega (’24), Robinson boys lacrosse Captain. “It’s a great way to get them interested in an amazing sport.” Donations can be made to the Knights Lacrosse Foundation at https://www.knightslacrossefoundation.org/support-us.

Kids enjoy a game of lacrosse hosted by the Knights Lacrosse Foundation. Photo courtesy of James Ishee