RHS Knight Writers Vol. 62 Issue 3 | March 2022

hallways are torn down it’s raining on mount fuji enjoy 3rd paper

Volume 62

Issue 3

Knight Writers

N C E S C

E W L U B V E N T P O R T L A S S E & Much More!

S S S S S

March 1st, 2022

Historic Soccer Season Ends in DeSoto County

The boys’ soccer Regional Finals game ends 2-1 as DeSoto County progresses to State Semifinals.

By JUNO LE, EDITOR-IN-CHIEF In a historic run, boys’ soccer ended the “In the moment it felt exhilarating to 2021-22 season at Regional Finals. score in a big game like that, but without the team’s success, my own numbers don’t mean After winning an overtime game against anything to me,” Schumacher said. the Clewiston HS Tigers that ended 3-2, the Knights took a bus to DeSoto County HS on Things took a turn for the Knights when Wednesday, Feb. 16 for their regional finals their starting goalkeeper, Oscar Poland (‘23) game in the Class 4A Tournament. ran out of the box to get a big clear on the ball, putting all of his weight on his right leg “This season has been quite an in the process. His knee buckled underneath experience,” said Robinson boys’ soccer him, and Poland heard three loud pops Head Coach, Jason Roberts. This season was before he realized his knee was done for Roberts’ first year coaching the boys’ team the night. The game came to halt as players and Roberts found that it was full of both awaited the arrival of an ambulance due to valuable and talented players who just needed the absence of an athletic trainer on the field. the guidance.

Nicolai Merrild (‘23) jumped into the game The game against Clewiston left RHS as goalkeeper as Poland was escorted away. with an overall season record of 12-6.

“I wasn’t worried at all about Nicolai,” Poland said. “I had full faith in his abilities “Once they realized they were better than their record previously, they started as a keeper and I wouldn’t trade him for any playing for each other. That’s when at the end other keeper in the region.” of the season their five-game-win streak made Merrild and Poland’s keeping styles a difference in their confidence,” Roberts differ. Poland, a more explosive and quick said. keeper, was put in as a starter to compete Before Wednesday’s game, the DeSoto against the three challenging strikers from County HS Bulldogs had an overall season DeSoto’s artillery. Meanwhile, Merrild, who record of 16 wins and one loss. Their only stands at a whopping 6 feet and 6 inches, loss was in their home game against Lemon has not only the height advantage but is also Bay HS, which the Robinson Knights had better at spreading out and controlling his game. previously beat early February 3-2.

“We had a ton of chances on set plays Strong defensive players kept a to put them in the back of the net but we competitive rally going throughout the game, came up just short... and personally I think with notable efforts from McConnell Barrow (‘23) and Junior Captain Naveen Jayaram I didn’t read DeSoto’s offense well enough,” (‘23). An unlucky bounce for the Knights led Poland added to DeSoto’s goal and shook the team for a bit.

There was a long break in the game DeSoto took the first half of the game, while waiting for the ambulance to arrive, 1-0. Following a water break, Robinson built which only energized DeSoto, who’d been up more momentum to recover from the first slumped since Robinson tied up with them. half. During a free kick just 50 seconds into Regardless, Robinson kept rallying against the second half, a long pass overwhelmed the Bulldogs in a now even tighter game.

DeSoto’s goalkeeper and Adrian Schumacher Tensions rose for the Knights in the second (‘23) scored Robinson’s first goal of the game. half from their multiple penalty and corner

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Goalkeepers Nicolai Merrild (‘23) (left) and Oscar Poland (‘23) take a moment to pose with each other while the rest of the team warms up before the game.

(Photo Credit Juno Le)

The Bulldogs added more aggressive attacks to combat Robinson’s defense, heightening the pressure on Robinson. Even with five minutes left on the clock, both teams remained tied 1-1, that is, until DeSoto scored another goal. At four minutes left in the game, DeSoto upped Robinson 2-1. Both sides continued rallying, but the effort fell short for RHS and their season ended there.

DeSoto then moved on to the State Semifinals game on Feb. 19 against the St. Brendan Sabres, which the Bulldogs lost 5-0.

The regional finals game was still a historic occasion for Robinson regardless.

The game against Clewiston was the first regional game in Robinson history, and their progression to the next level was an even more momentous occasion.

“This season had immeasurable amounts of impact on the team and the program in general,” said the Team Manager, Alex Galvin (‘23). “With a new coach coming in and no new hope for success, being able to make it this far after many ups and downs gives all of us returning to the team and Coach Roberts hope for a promising future [for] this team as well as excitement for what next season has to offer.”

2022 Robinson boys’ soccer team captains Nathan Pham (‘22) (left) and Naveen Jayaram (‘23).

(Photo Credit Juno Le)

At an overall season record of 12-7, the RHS boys’ soccer team’s 2022 season came to a close at their regional finals game.

Nevertheless, the Knights continue to hold their heads up high as this year’s district champions and are already looking forward to next year’s season.

“The goal for next year,” Merrild proposed, “is to keep up the work to reform and progress.”

Rohan Tipnes (‘22) practices in a scrimmage match before the big game.

(Photo Credit Samuel Elliott)

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NEWS

Russia Declares Seperatist Territories Independent; Invades Ukraine After weeks of speculation, Russian military troops have finally set foot on Ukranian soil.

By VIKRAM SAMBASIVAN, NEWS EDITOR

Editor’s note: the following story covers events up to Feb. 22 9:04am. Any events that occurred after Feb. 22 are not covered in this story.

Last year in a self-written article, Russian President Vladimir Putin expressed his beliefs about the unity of Russia and Ukraine. “…when I was asked about Russian-Ukrainian relations, I said that Russians and Ukrainians were one people – a single whole,” said Putin.

While this is one implicit reason for the recent Russian aggression on the Ukrainian border, Putin has also said that it is about stopping western aggression into Eastern Europe and the expansion of NATO. The North Atlantic Treaty Organization, more commonly known as NATO, was created post-WWII in order to combat

Ukraine. He explained that Russia is claiming that Ukraine has been committing Genocide against Russian peoples in the area and has been starting these attacks themselves.

Additionally, Biden says that Russia has been falsely claiming that Ukraine is planning on attacking Russia. He went on to further point out that if this were true, it would be a complete abandon of strategy on the Ukrainian side, as there are over 150,000 Russian troops on their border ready to attack.

“...Russian troops currently have Ukraine surrounded, from Belarus, all around the Russian border, and with Soviet expansion during the Cold War. Despite the Cold War Ukraine to the Black Sea in the south and all of its border...” ending, its continued existence to this day still poses a threat to Russia, especially in the eyes of Putin. Since Ukraine was states Biden. planning on joining NATO, having a NATO member on In response to recent allegations by Putin that the West, Russia’s border would create a new danger for them, so Russia with emphasis on the United States, has been fear mongering decided to respond with a show of force. by reporting on events in Ukraine and predicting a Russian In a speech Putin gave on Tuesday, Feb. 1, he said, “In invasion into their neighboring country, Biden revealed this creating a threat for Russia [joining NATO], Ukraine creates as a tactic to remove Russia’s veil of justification: a threat for itself.”

“We’re calling out Russia’s plans loudly and repeatedly, Amid changing conditions, a lack of stability and not because we want a conflict, but because we are doing increases of Russian aggression in the region, Biden has stated everything in our power to remove any reason that Russia that the United States would be unable to send troops into may give to justify invading Ukraine...” said Biden as well. the region to evacuate fleeing American Citizens.

The Russian Kremlin denounced this as hysteria and madness, claiming that the United States is trying to stoke “That’s a world war when Americans and Russia start violence in the region for domestic interest. shooting at one another,” Biden declared.

As of Tuesday, Feb. 22, Russia recognized separatist Russian-backed Ukrainian separatists shelled a regions of Eastern Ukraine as independent and sent troops in. kindergarten in Stanytsia, Luhanska on Feb. 17, injuring three Some countries are struggling to call this an invasion because employees. The separatists claim that this and other bombings Russia is recognizing the territories not as parts of Ukraine, in the city were retaliation for the Ukrainian Military firing on their territory. This comes amidst an increase in separatist but rightfully parts of Russia. bombing in the entire eastern portion of the country.

European Union Policy Chief Josep Borrell said, “Russian troops are on Ukrainian soil” but that it was not a On top of the attacks, Russia has now expelled the No. 2 American diplomat, Bart Gorman, from the United “fully fledged invasion.”

States Embassy in Russia. Although Russia did not make This conflict won’t only affect these two countries, but any comment on the expulsion, the State Department also the entire European continent. Due to the movement of said that Gorman hadn’t yet ended his tour, and that they Russian troops into Eastern Ukraine, Germany has refused to considered this “an escalatory step and are considering our certify the Nord Stream 2 pipeline. This pipeline would carry [the department’s] response.” energy from Russia to about 26 million homes in Europe, In an announcement made on Friday, Feb. 18, but it would also give Russia more power over Europe’s PresidenBiden spoke on the recent attacks made by Russian- energy supply. Germany is afraid that Russia could use this as backed Ukrainian separatists in the Donbas region of leverage to keep European nations out of the conflict.

Additionally, The United States and United Kingdom have imposed sanctions on the separatist regions of Ukraine that Russia is occupying and it is expected that the European Union will follow.

NEWS Russian military presence growing closer to Ukraine.

(Photo Credit Russian Defense Ministry)

Say goodbye to your No. 2 pencils The SAT test is about to undergo a big change.

By CECILIA CHENG, A&E EDITOR The College Board or easy for them. announced several big changes Additionally, the reading to the Scholastic Assessment sections will be much condensed, Test (SAT) on Tuesday, Jan. 25. with shorter passages and one Although it will still be question per passage instead. taken in person, the SAT is A graphing calculator will also officially going digital starting in be built into this app, meaning 2023 for international students calculators will now be allowed and 2024 for students in the on the entire math section.

US. Students will be able to The Collegeboard worries as either use their own device or more and more colleges go testone that the testing center will offer them. Since testing will be optional due to the pandemic, online, scores will be available a the test will become worthless. lot quicker. “[We want it to be as] “[It] allows for more flexible and accessible as possible efficient testing to get the so that any students who want same assessment of the skills to can take it and then decide: and knowledge,” said Priscilla Is that a score they want to put Rodriguez, the College Board forward?” Rodriguez added.

Vice President.

The Class of 2025 will be the first class here to experience This new version of the SAT will still be scored based this change and many freshmen on a 1600 scale. There is no at- at Robinson are quite excited home testing, so students are about it. required to go to a proctored “I’m excited that the SAT is testing location. The test will going digital since most students be shortened to two hours, are now used to taking tests on instead of three. Questions computers,” Ayan Nallamshetti will be adjusted based on the (‘25) said. “There are fewer student’s answers to the previous questions, meaning more time questions, allowing time to be for each of them, lessening the reduced since students will not pressure during the test.” be answering questions too hard

Florida Senate Committee Passes the “Don’t Say Gay” Bill

The Florida Senate Education Committee just passed the controversial Parental Rights in Education bill.

By INGALLS WITTE, STAFF WRITER Last Tuesday, Feb. 10, the Florida Senate Education Committee passed the highly controversial Parental Rights in Education bill, colloquially dubbed the “Don’t Say Gay” bill. The proposed legislation would bar school districts from encouraging any discussion regarding both sexual orientation and gender identity “in primary grade levels or in a manner that is not age-appropriate or developmentally appropriate for students.”

Proposed by Republican Sen. Dennis Baxley, the bill would extend outside the classroom and into student counseling. It would require school district employees to disclose the student’s orientation and identity to their parents, essentially “outing” the child without their consent. Additionally, the bill would allow parents to sue if the district did not follow these requirements. The purpose, according to the bill, is to “reinforce the fundamental right of parents to make decisions regarding the upbringing and control of their children.”

your back, and my Administration will continue to fight for the protections and safety you deserve.”

Despite the immense backlash, Gov. Ron DeSantis voiced his support for the bill saying, “We’ve seen instances of students being told by different folks in school, ‘Oh, well, don’t worry, don’t pick your gender yet, do all this other stuff.’ They won’t tell the parents about these discussions that are happening. That is entirely inappropriate.”

The bill will still have to be considered by two more Florida Senate committees before it is presented to the full chamber and Florida house. If the bill is passed by Florida legislators, it would go into effect on July 1, with all school district plans having to be updated by June 30, 2023.

The proposal has been met with massive amounts of backlash from LGBT+ advocates, as they argue the bill is stripping LGBT+ youth of a safe space and endangering queer youth. The civil rights organization Equality Florida, which advocates for full equality for Florida’s LGBTQ community, spoke out against the bill as well, stating: “This legislation is meant to stigmatize LGBTQ people, isolate LGBTQ kids, and make teachers fearful of providing a safe, inclusive classroom.”

Even President Biden spoke out against the bill, tweeting out Feb. 8, “I want every member of the LGBTQI+ community — especially the kids who will be impacted by this hateful bill — to know that you are loved and accepted just as you are. I have

Sela Teplin (‘23)’s backpack is embellished with a rainbow ribbon pin in support of the Gay-Straight Alliance on campus.

(Photo Credit Sarah Teplin)

NEWS

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Construction Updates: Q&A with Principal Bhoolai The new RHS is well on its way to reality.

By SAMUEL ELLIOTT, PRINT MANAGING EDITOR & WHITTALEY BOWDEN, STAFF WRITER B: There certainly have been unexpected difficulties… there are water lines that run across campus which need to be worked on in order to take the building down, and they realized that it can’t be done while we’re at school, so we’re getting creative on figuring out how to do that. Also, some materials, such as the gate which students enter, The front entrance to Robinson High school, now barred with chain link fence and were back ordered due to COVID-related flanked by construction equipment. delays. It looks like we’re on schedule so far.

(Photo Credit Samuel Elliott) Knight Writers: So since construction Planning, demolition and materials have all has been going on, how might students’ and been on schedule so far. staffs’ schedules look in the next school year?

KW: Students’ parking had a major overhaul this year. Could you talk a bit about Since the end of the first semester, Mr. Bhoolai: We’re actually in the students have been traveling to and from process of scheduling courses for next year that, and how that might carry on into next classes under a bustling deconstruction this week. I would not anticipate too many year? operation, eating lunch with the creaks of changes to your schedules, and things should B: Absolutely. The temporary parking heavy machinery in the distance, and sharing look pretty similar to this year. lot that students park in now was meant the fenced-off walkways with construction to give students more ability to park, as crew and contractors as they file into their KW: And how is it going with the city, it’s a very large lot, as well as to relieve the newly-built temporary classrooms, or concerning the move in student parking to congestion from student parking and parent “portables”. This comes with the promise of Rembrandt Drive? drop-off/pick-up.

By having the two separate, a completely new campus for Robinson High things are going much better.

We have new B: So we’re going to close the road– the School, set to arrive in roughly 14 months. city actually voted to close Rembrandt, and dedicated crosswalks, and now that students To learn more about how things are the district is in the process of obtaining gates aren’t passing by where parents are driving, the pedestrian danger element has gone down going so far, and what things might look like in order to close the road itself. by a lot. in the future, Knight Writers caught up with KW: Have there been any setbacks, or Principal Robert Bhoolai on-campus last KW: You said that COVID stopped the week, amidst wires hanging overhead and a unexpected difficulties so far, in the process student gate from being fixed, what else has of construction? blue fence enclosing an area of deconstructed COVID delayed in construction? concrete.

Controversy sparked with Florida House Bill 747

New subvariant spreads fast in U.S.

HB 747 to allow healthcare professionals to decide whether or not to treat patients based on morals.

BA.2 is the direct subvariant of the newest COVID-19 variant, Omincron.

By GRACE HILTON, SPORTS EDITOR

By JAYDN GRAYES, STAFF WRITER Since the end of November, the Florida Senate has been moving forward with a bill proposal that would allow healthcare professionals to use their conscience when deciding whether to give patients treatments or not. Inevitably, this sparked a debate amongst Floridians.

Since Jan. 26, HB 747, also known as “Protections of Medical Conscience” has been under consideration by the judiciary committee. It has been described by the Fla. Senate as a provision of protection for healthcare workers which gives them the right to not provide services that violate their consciences without facing legal action. State laws already allow doctors to refuse certain treatments, such as abortion; however, this bill would expand it to every health service, as well as health insurance companies.

The proposal of this bill has opened up many conversations questioning whether the bill is morally sound for both healthcare professionals and patients. Some citizens feel as if this bill is necessary to honor the fact that doctors are still humans with morals that should not be shed at the doors of their workplace.

Representative Sam Garrison of Fleming Island shared this ideology, expressing that “Physicians are not robots, they are not machines.”

KW: Just to cap things off, what’s the feature you’re most excited about with the new school?

B: Personally, I’m most excited about the new culinary space. It will be a full-fledged culinary restaurant, which will give us the opportunity to serve the community and cater to most of our extracurricular activities.

Our prior culinary kitchen worked, but it was very small. This is going to be state-of-theart and will function just like a restaurant. I think we’ll have the best culinary space in the county when this is finished.

Currently infecting more than 8,000 people in Hillsborough County, new ‘BA.2’ strand has developed from ‘BA.1’ which is commonly known as Omicron The new subvariant is shown to be the most transferable so far and is currently “highly transferable” in Florida. It was officially added to the CDC COVID Data Tracker in early February, showing about 96% of the country having high counts of the virus. During these high rates, many people are scared that the new strains might cause lock-downs or a return to early COVID-19 quarantine measures after getting somewhat back to normal environments.

“It doesn’t include shutdowns or lockdowns, but widespread vaccinations and boosters and testing a lot more,” President Joe Biden told CNBC reporters.

The other side of this debate is the belief that it could further allow for marginalized groups to be discriminated against when it comes to possibly lifesaving health services. They express beliefs that faith is something that should be kept separate from professional environments because not everyone shares the same moral beliefs.

Additionally, John Hopkins University did a study that showed lockdowns were ineffective to COVID-19 deaths. While this is up for debate, it is unlikely that lockdowns will come back.

“We want our children in school; we are going to take new steps to make sure it stays that way,” Biden told CNBC.

A large voice of the opposition to this bill is Jacksonville doctor Jennifer Cowart.

Regardless, there is still a lot that is unknown about the new strand. So far it is not seen as a threat despite how fast it is able to spread. It is believed to be less dangerous than previous strains and is holding a very low number of deaths in the country. Although it is still very early in the spreading process of the strain, as it recently reached the United States from Denmark, it doesn’t appear that there is much to be feared.

“Patients most at risk of harm include those with the most difficulties in access, which include our LGBTQ population as well as those who live in poverty and those who live in rural areas estimated at nearly two million Floridians who may not have the luxury of seeking out another provider when their provider says no,” Cowart said.

Despite the major division the Fla. House bill has caused between both citizens and representatives of Fla., it has continued to move forward through the house.

B: Great question. Generally, I think COVID has impacted all industries, construction probably the hardest– because when you don’t have trucks on the road delivering materials, you can’t build things.

The construction company we’re working with, Ajax Construction, they do a great job of ordering things very early in the process, to ensure they get there on time. I think the technology is where I’ve noticed most of the delays because those are specialized parts that aren’t being produced at the same volume that they’ve been produced before, but I haven’t noticed anything in the materials we’re ordering.

Additional fear of the public is the effectiveness of the vaccine. It was developed to attack early strains of COVID-19 and is being studied and debated for its ability to protect vaccinated people from new threats.

Peyton Price (‘24) blows her nose into a tissue.

(Photo CreditVikram Sambasivan)

Top Caliber Construction, Inc. Supports Robinson Journalism

“It appears that vaccine will protect you against BA.2 just as well as it does against BA.1. So, not perfectly, but at least there’s some protection there,” CDC Spokesperson, Catherine L. Troisi, told CNBC.

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FEATURES

IN DEPTH SAT Preparations

Four easy tips to help anyone taking the SAT.

By ZOE THAXTON, ONLINE MANAGING EDITOR

A student looks over one of the provided SAT practice books in the RHS media center.

(Photo Credit Keirra McGoldrick)

The time comes for the test every that will help you study.

Junior dreads. The supposed make or break for one’s college acceptances THREE: GET A GOOD NIGHT REST track. The SAT. Yeah, yeah, I’m sure you hear ONE: DON’T STRESS this all the time from parents or Seriously. Don’t stress out and teachers, but it’s true. Eight hours overthink it. During test time, you of sleep will help your focus so you are significantly “dumber” than nor- won’t doze off during the test. mal and that’s just because of typical test anxiety. Take a deep breath and FOUR: YOU CAN RETAKE IT just go. Don’t waste time on probIf you don’t get that desired lems you don’t know, there is no pen- score, don’t worry. I keep repeating alty for guessing if you start to run it because it won’t be the end of the low on time. world. You can retake this test as TWO: PREPARE AHEAD OF many times as you want. Of course, each attempt does cost money and TIME colleges will be able to see how many You can go in blind, but it won’t times you redid the test, so make help your chance of getting that high your retakes far and few between. score. There are tons of practice onThe SAT remains an important line booklets you can buy or there part of the college application proare some tutors who can help. Also, there’s one practice that is amaz- cess. It seems scary but it doesn’t have ing for this: Khan Academy. Khan to be. Prepare well and take care of Academy is your friend. It takes your your body before the test and don’t PSAT score and personalizes practice stress out.

The 52nd Gasparilla Festival of the Arts The Bay Area arts festival returns for another year of art showcasing and a weekend of entertainment.

By JUNO LE, EDITOR-IN-CHIEF The end of winter marks Tampa’s annual juried arts festival that dates back to half a century ago.

ramic, digital art, drawing, glass, jewelry, photography, painting and printmaking, celebrating the works of both the accomplished and the emerging. GFA also has a The 52nd Raymond James scholastic program that showcases Gasparilla Festival of the Arts art from Elementary, Middle and (GFA) will be held on Saturday, High School students.

March 5 from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sunday, March 6 from 10 Participants of the HS schoa.m. to 5 p.m. and is free to the lastic showcase are composed of public for entry. It’ll be located at public school students from HillJulian B. Lane Riverfront Park and sborough, Pinellas, Pasco, Polk, attendees will be able to find paid Manatee and Sarasota counties. parking nearby. There will also be Up to ten works of art are suba free shuttle system running from mitted per county to the GFA and Poe Garage at Gasparilla Plaza to the student artists can select from Julian B. Lane. Two shuttles will the following mediums: ceramic, be available. Attendees can also digital, drawing, fiber, glass, jewopt for a more scenic route to the elry, mixed media, painting, phofestival by taking the Water Taxi tography, printmaking, sculpture, circulating Fort Brooke Garage watercolor and wood. This year’s and Julian B. Lane. festival juror Janet Echelman will select three creators of winning The event will showcase art- pieces who’ll be awarded $1,000 ists of several crafts, such as ce- each. Their schools will also be

awarded $2,000 to fund their visual arts programs.

GFA supports adult artists in awards as high as $15,000 and $2,500 scholarships for current college-enrolled students. All information for contests can be found on their website gasparillaarts.com.

Beyond the art shows will be live performances. Emceeing this show will be ABC Action News Chief Meteorologist Denis Phillips and the performance lineup can also be found on their website.

GFA’s celebration of artists will showcase several works that can be bought. If you’re looking for a weekend to just appreciate the art scene, many artists will be happy for attendees to check out their work.

Freshman promotes Black History Month through T-Shirts Williams shares Black culture and history to Robinson students to draw more attention to POC struggles.

By JULIA GUILLERMO, STAFF WRITER

The Strawberry Festival Is a Sweet Treat for Everyone This year’s Strawberry Festival is full of music, food, attractions, games and fun.

By CHARLOTTE STONE, FEATURES EDITOR Florida’s annual Strawberry Festival will be back this year and better than ever! It begins on March 3 and runs through March 13. The festival will be held in Plant City and include a variety of attractions such as delicious food booths, livestock contests, a variety of rides and rollercoasters and many musical guests.

The fair will be open from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. during this 11 day period. Adult tickets (ages 13+) cost $10, kids (ages 6-12) are $5 and children (ages 5 and under) have free entry with paid adult admission. All tickets can be bought at your local Publix supermarket, or at the gate of the Strawberry Festival upon arrival.

Once inside, there are three main sections full of attractions: Belle City Midway, Kiddie Korral and Neighborhood Village. Belle City Midway is always fun for guests of all ages; it’s full of over 80 rides, rollercoasters and games and is often the highlight of many guests’ visits.

Belle City Midway opens every day at noon except for Saturday, Sunday and Monday when it opens right at 10 a.m.

for younger guests.

Finally, Neighborhood Village is the perfect place to take a break from the heat and relax while browsing through home-crafted items made in the community. There are two separate categories for kids and adults in which Florida residents can submit their handmade masterpieces for judgment. There is a myriad of categories for these projects including baking, jewelry making, knitting, etc. Whether you enter or not, it’s still a great way to pass your time cooling off and observing some amazing crafts.

Last but not least, here’s what you need to know about the COVID-19 regulations at the Strawberry Festival. Bringing a mask is a necessity. It is recommended that all guests wear a mask while inside the fairgrounds and is required while indoors and inside enclosed tents. It’s also requested that all those who are experiencing symptoms refrain from coming to the festival and asks that all guests follow social distancing guidelines.

No matter your age, the StrawKiddie Korral is specialized for berry Festival is a great way to spend younger kids’ enjoyment. It opens your weekend or start off your Spring daily at 10 a.m. and includes smaller, Break. more gentle rides to accommodate

Williams (front center) sits with her friends, who’ve volunteered to help her run the table during lunch.

(Photo Credit Juno Le)

Jaleah Williams is an IB Freshman at RHS who has made quite an impression on herself within the last few weeks. Despite being an underclassman, Williams went out of her comfort zone to do something not many people her age would have the willingness or passion to do.

stride and doing her best to make the most out of the current situation. She further expresses what she feels as though her obligation is to her community as a Black person in America.

“Black History Month is a month where we talk about the accomplishments of other Black people. Our history is important because it is American history.

Black people who have done amazing things and broken records, prove all the stereotypes wrong,” Williams said.

celebrate such a historic month inspires me. I am glad to have my ideas, thoughts, and feelings of this month being put into play with the people I love and adore most,” Perez said.

“If I want to make a difference in this world, I can start by being an advocator and spokesperson for my As Black History Month began at the beginning people, while educating others how we are important, of February, an idea was brought up in Williams’s how we matter, and how we have a voice,” Williams home about selling Black History Month t-shirts. She said. instantly fell in love with the idea and ran with it. The Izzy Perez (‘25), a friend of Williams and a person idea was later approved by Principal Robert Bhoolai of color (POC), shared her sense of gratitude for the and Williams began her project. Not only was she selling shirts, but she even went out of her way to create time and dedication that was put into promoting and a Black History Month spirit week for the whole school selling the t-shirts. to participate in.

“Seeing Jaleah put her heart, time, and soul to

For Williams, she didn’t want this to be another month where students overlooked another part in her peoples history, but unfortunately, that is exactly what was happening. Williams discussed how she was dissatisfied with the lack of effort the school had been putting forth in promoting Black History Month.

As Black History Month is slowly coming to a close, Williams has also outlined what she desires for people not of color to take away. She finds it important that those who are not black are informed about the history and racial inequality that still continues in our society.

“I want people to not judge us on stereotypes, prejudice or what the media portrays us to be, but to be “I don’t see teachers and staff promoting anything and the kids are not participating. Mr. Boohlai said seen as humans,” Williams said. we were doing trivia, a door decorating contest and With William’s advice, she wants individuals to be presentations in the library. So far the only thing that intentional about learning the culture and the heroic has been done is trivia. We need to promote more and people within her community, as well as informing get students excited or interested,” Williams said. others about it as well. More importantly, she wants Despite Williams’s frustration, she is taking it with people to recognize that being an ally for POC goes beyond the month of February.

SPORTS

Post-Season Aims from Veteran Baseball Leadership The knights are looking to come back from last seasons 9-15 to make the playoff run.

By ARAYA STEARNS, STAFF WRITER

Besides the senior leadership, the Knights have a strong group of underclassmen. Sophomore Aleks Yarich, underclassman are looking forward to grow with the team and make an impact. "I expect a dominant season especially on the mound and lots of

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sports

The Knights baseball team has been working on wins this year," Yarich said. improving their pitching strengths, chemistry, and "Last year I gave my all everyday at practice and defense to increase their wins from the previous year's tired to constantly learn from the older guys what 9-15 season. they did to get to where they were.'' Yarich said.

The Knights are looking forward to having key Coach Barron has led the team for four seasons players return, including seniors Joe Whitaker ('22): and continue to improve the team no matter the second baseman with a fielding percentage of 0.968, circumstances. and Lamont Akins ('22): a pitcher with 11 runs and 15 hits.

"The inevitable downs in between the ups, the things that don't go our way," Barron said. "Guys Whitaker, last year's Hillsborough County not in the [position] they want to be in, but trying district player of the year who had stats of 0.381, 21 runs expects the knights to go deep into the playoffs, to be a good teammate to see if we can put all that which hasn't been accomplished since the final four together in the course of 25 games and end it in the way that we want." appearance in 2015.

Some upcoming games to watch are Jefferson "My goal for senior year [is] to win a state (March 8), Sickles (April 7), Steinbrenner (April 19), championship, nothing else," Whitaker said.

Lennard (April 21). Also, Robinson's rivalry, Plant Akins has some high hopes with the team this (March 25), which is a home matchup this year. year as well.

"Always Plant. There is always fireworks there "I expect us to have a really strong season and with the rivalry and then, outside of that, Sickles and shock a lot of people," Akins said.

Steinbrenner are always strong," Barron said.

Lamont is one of the starting pitchers. With an ERA 2.73, WIN 1, IP 33.1, K 40, OBA .264, FP .955

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Joe Whitaker (’22) sliding back into first base at Strawberry Crest on Feb. 18.

(Photo Credit Zoe Thaxton)

ROBINSON TENNIS LOSS TO SICKLES The knights are looking to come back from last seasons 9-15 to make the playoff run.

By NICOLAS DIAZ, STAFF WRITER Robinson's girls' varsity tennis team played against Sickles on Feb. 10 the girls lost 1-8 and fought hard.

The Knights didn't play to the best of their ability but it's the beginning of their season and they are trying to find their rhythm. Robinson showed great sportsmanship against Sickles and both teams enjoyed the games they played; the Knights didn't give an inch to the opposing team and played their hearts out enjoying the sport they love.

P L AY E R P R O F I L E : Mia Reineke

Mia Reineke ('23) Tapping the ball over the net.

When asked how she started playing tennis, Reineke said: "I played Tennis when I was younger and I stopped playing when I started volleyball. When I was a freshman, Mr. Everhart was my bio teacher and started coaching the tennis team. He asked me to play and I decided to join."

Mia Reineke ('23) receiving the ball from the opponents serve.

Mia Reineke ('23) beginning her swing to hit the opponents serve.

"I practice for tennis by going through drills, serving over and over, and hitting different techniques. The key to getting better at tennis really is just to play a lot" Reineke said.

"I prepare for games the day before, really just running through all the movements I'd use in a game and then playing some practice matches" Reineke said.

Real Food & Lifestyle Inspiration For Real Busy Families

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PREVIEWS

Low Running Times & High Expectations for the 2022 Track Season As the Spring season begins, the track and field team hopes to make it to States.

By JADYN GRAYES, STAFF WRITER

The Robinson track and field team kicked throwers on the team that show promise. He off the new season with a home meet against hopes these new additions to the team will help Chamberlain and Tampa Catholic on Feb. 23, and lead them to States.

Coach Manuel Montero has high hopes for the “Keep an eye out for a couple of throwers...E.J. 2022 season.

Archield, he’s a good football player this year, he’s Montero hopes that the team this year will going to be a very good thrower,” Montero said. surpass the achievements of last year. “Well last He also pays appreciation to the former year, we had zero kids make it to states but we had best throwers from last season. “I can’t neglect fourteen make it to regionals, so I’d like to improve Lexington, was our best thrower last year for girls, on the group, like how many kids get to regionals Lexi Burgess, and she also made it to regionals last and I’d like to get some of our kids to States,” year,” Montero said.

Montero said.

RHS students share the same excitement for Montero expressed hope for some new

Tennis Season Begins With a Great Swing The girls and boys tennis teams start off the season full of spirit.

By SALMA BOUGHDIRI, STAFF WRITER Spring season is right around the corner.

Along with it, Robinson’s girls’ and boys’ tennis team has recently been formed. With the boys’ team consisting of seventeen players and the girls consisting of a large mix of juniors and sophomores, the tennis teams seem to have a promising start.

One of the captains on the girls’ tennis team is Ally Clement (‘23), and it is not her first time being the team captain. In fact, during her sophomore year, she was also given this role.

“There’s more responsibility being a captain. I sort of have to coordinate what uniforms we’re wearing, what fundraising we’re doing. We bring snacks to every match, so the captains need to see who’s bringing the snacks on what day. We have an Instagram, I don’t run it, but another captain runs that and helps with the drills during practice,” Clement said.

of last year’s players rejoined this year, which School. They want people to attend home means that the team now has a handful of games but most importantly the Plant one more experienced players. This would make considering it would be the biggest game. their goal of passing districts possible.

“I think our expectations are to just keep The girls’ team would like people to on improving and at the end of the season, be attend home games because it’s exciting and a lot better than we were at the beginning and not too far. Although, most of their games are hopefully win all of our matches,” said Ruyle. far away. The team really enjoy the far games Both teams have a very hopeful start, and because they are a lot of fun, and they get one as they keep up with the cheerful mindsets, or two days off. hard practices, bonding exercises and The boys’ tennis team consists of juniors, fundraisers they are bound to accomplish their two seniors and a couple of sophomores. The goals and much more. team seems to be doing well with their first real match being on Feb. 10.

“Our goal is just to improve everyone all around and then do well in district,” said Max Ruyle (‘23) a member of the tennis team.

“We have a really good atmosphere, practices are a lot of fun, everyone is working together to improve and overall everyone is Clement hopes to make it past districts helping each other out,” said Ruyle. this year, it would be a challenge, but she is The boys’ team is most excited about confident in this year’s team. The majority Robinson’s rival games against Plant High

The Start of the Knights’ Softball Season The Robinson HS Lady Knights are eager to return for the new season.

By CECILIA CHENG, A&E EDITOR With spring sports starting, the Robinson softball team held tryouts on Monday, Jan. 24 at 3 p.m. and Tuesday, Jan. 25 at 4 p.m. this year.

Having four fresh faces on the team, the Lady Knights are back and more ready than ever.

Robinson softball ended their season at playoffs against Lake Region High last year. With 23 wins in the 2020-21 season and being ranked no.4 in the 4A division, the team is prepared to overcome more challenges.

“We had an excellent season going 23-5, setting multiple team records, although it did not end as we hoped,” said Coach Ed Gallio. “The challenges come this season...

Lake Region is the team that eliminated us from the playoffs last season and now with

them being in our district, it’s making things a little harder.” “The team played extremely well last season, never giving This season, 12 players re- in or giving up,” Gallio said. turned with their heads already “They were down multiple in the game. The five captains, runs but they only come fightSydney Hall (‘22), Cassidy ing back and winning more.”

Lund (‘22), Lindsey Chadwick (‘22), JC Thaxton (‘23) The Lady Knights had their and Riley Onisawa (‘23) have first away game of the seamany goals in their minds. son against Durant on Tuesday, Feb. 22 at 7 p.m.

“My specific goal for this year is to beat Plant, but to also raise “I’ve been playing for Robschool spirit for softball and to inson softball for four years play my game,” Onisawa said. and I’m looking forwards to “I hope to see a lot of people being able to play with my come out and support us.” teammates and finish my high school career on a good note,” Along with the returning Lund said. and new captains, there is a great balance of upper and underclassmen on the team. And just like any other softball player, the Lady Knights hopes to make it to State Finals this year.

this season as Coach Montero.

“I am super excited to be able friends in track at meets! I know las didn’t get to go to States but judgin additions to track and the practicin team doing after school, I see them year. Go Knights!” Abby Goebel (‘2

Based on the practices so far, C is feeling confident about the 2022 we definitely have some talented in big group,” Montero added.

The team has a meet at Leto H Wednesday, March 9. To support R and Field, see the Robinson home information.

PREVIEWS

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Flag Football Flies Right Into the 2022 Season With many new goals and opportunities, the RHS flag football team gets ready for the new season.

By CECILIA CHENG, A&E EDITOR As spring sports start again, the Robinson flag football team is coming back again for another season. Tryouts were held Monday, Feb. 14 and Tuesday, Feb. 15 this year.

to support my st year the team ng from the new ng that I see the m going far this 23) said.

Last season, the Knights were undefeated with 22 wins and won the states championship, making this the sixth state title they have received. With several new members, including 10 freshmen, on the team this year, Coach Joshua Saunders anticipates nothing less.

Coach Montero 2 season. “Yeah ndividuals, it’s a

“We’ve got a lot of young kids [this year], play-

High School on Robinson Track epage for ticket

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ing different and more important roles,” Saunders said. “I feel like this would require a lot more learning and teaching, in order for us to get to where we want to get to, to win.”

jor concern we had last year because after the previous season was canceled, we all just wanted to play,” Sterns expressed. “So to ensure we stayed safe and could continue our season, some players did school virtually, including me and others would make sure This season, senior captains Jaylen Stasio (‘22), to distance themselves in the classroom and lunchBrianna Stearns (‘22) and junior captains Julia Guill- room.” ermo (‘23) and Katejion Robinson (‘23) already have numerous goals they are prepared to accomplish.

But all this victory doesn’t come easy. The Knights have been practicing nonstop as the season “A goal I have for myself is to just stay consis- slowly approaches them. tent,” Sterns said. “I want my passing completion rate 70% or higher and want to be comfortable in my “I yell at them a lot, “ Saunders said. He admits ability to make reads. As a team that is what keeps them hardworking. “Other teams are always trying to catch up to us. If we work harder I believe we also want to win the academic state than everybody else, then we’ll keep that separation.” championship as well as focus on the #littlethings.”

The Robinson flag football team has their PreWith the team being featured in a Nike com- season Classic on Thursday, Mar. 3 against St. Pete mercial last year, Robinson flag was also recently rec- High School and East Lake High School at USF and ognized as one of the first Nike Elite High School their first game against Riverview High Wednesday, Flag Football teams in the country, along with Alonso Mar. 9 at home.

High School.

“I would say that Robinson flag has changed my “Filming the Nike commercial is definitely a core life by giving me an opportunity to meet new peomemory for most of us, including myself,” Sterns also ple and develop a lot of friendships,” Bella Rodrigues said. “Just knowing that we were a part of the process (‘23) said. “It has made being a student a lot more ento get girls across the country involved in the pro- joyable and has taught me how to be more outgoing gram was really awesome. I even got to be in a scene as well as how to manage my time well since I have to with Sydney Hall (‘22) and Christal Rolack (‘22).” balance school work with flag practices and games.”

Despite COVID bringing them a lot of chalFor more information and updates, follow them lenges these last two years, it hasn’t stopped them. on Instagram @robinsonflagfootball or visit their “Players getting sick or quarantined was a ma- website www.robinsonflag.com.

Boys Lacrosse Prepare for 2022 Season Starting from almost ground zero, the boy’s lacrosse season is on its way.

By JC THAXTON, STAFF WRITER

The Robinson Boy’s Lacrosse team is gearing up to start their 2022 season. Last year their record was 4-10 but this year, things may change.

With the loss of over ten seniors, there is a bunch of new faces to come back and take those places. Head Coach, Smithers thinks this year’s team can have a different turn than last year.

“The expectation this year is to reverse some negativity and team culture from last year and get back to the tight bond we had in previous years. We lost a lot of seniors last year,... so we have a complete rebuild,” Smithers said.

“Really our primary objective is to come together and operate as a team and not al-

low ourselves to [sperate into two] and not allow ourselves to get down when times are tough.”

led a lot of senior practices.

I felt like I was one of the best-qualified people... with coaching them and I just wanted to help lead the team,” Maybe with the loss of all Brown said. the seniors from the previous year, there needs to be some Every player has differpeople to “replace” them. ent ranges in playing includThere are now twelve new- ing skill level and the length comers to this year’s lacrosse they have played. Some have team and within that twelve, played all their life while othten people are new to the ers just started this year. sport. This complete rebuild of “Well this is my first the team makes it difficult, yet year... [so I would like to work the fresh start this team needs. on] my fundamentals and get This wouldn’t be possible without the help of Captain better as a player with the Robby Rice (‘22) and co-cap- help of the seniors,” said new tain Matthew Brown (‘22). defensive player, Ruauidhri Doyle (‘25).

“Our relationship, [with the Some games are major for freshman and newcomers], the Robinson lacrosse team grew during the fall when I including the Plant game on Feb. 15, and Senior night which is on March 30 against Freedom. These two games are the best two to attend to support the team.

“First two weeks are going to be tough, we’ve got Plant and then Alonso and the next week we have Steinbrenner and all three are pretty good; Plant being final four state championship-contending team last year so that’s our first game this year and we will learn a lot about ourselves that game,” Smithers said.

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OPINION

Abolish the iPad kid Parents are swapping out kids toys for Cocomelon.

By INGALLS WITTE, STAFF WRITER In 2010, Apple released the first generation of iPad. With this came a major step in technology- and a major step back for parenting.

Now, nearly 11 years following the iPad’s release, a new generation of techdependent kids has arisen.

I’m talking about iPad kidsthe greasy fingered, Roblox playing, temper tantrum throwing menaces we’ve all seen or heard about. As annoying as these kids are, they’re a product of a much bigger and much more concerning problem. Parents are substituting iPads for parenting- depriving their kids of formative experiences in critical developmental years.

Now I don’t want to come across as some antitech, phones are rotting your brain, 5G waves are giving us cancer-crazy people- there’s no doubt technology has greatly improved our day-today lives. I have no problem

with older kids getting a device when their parents see fit. What I do have a problem with is kids only a few months old being given an iPad because their parents are too bothered to give them beneficial enrichment.

You may be wondering, “Who in the world would give their infant an iPad?” The answer is, a concerning amount of parents. Across the internet people are posting about how they’re substituting toys for iPadsand how much easier that’s made parenting.

While iPads can be beneficial to kids in some cases, like educational apps that help with math or reading, there’s more harm done than good. Studies conducted by the Hospital for Sick Children in Canada found that toddlers who were exposed to more handheld device time were more likely to develop a delay in their

expressive language skills.

Additionally, Mayo Clinic recommends only one hour of screen time for children 2 to 5.

Opinion SOUND OFF:

The fact of the matter is that parents don’t adhere to these recommendations and typically let children have free reign of those clunkycased greasy devices. The lack of enforcement when it comes to screen time leads to kids who can’t take “no” for an answer, and temper tantrums over giving up their device.

Giving children unregulated screen time and unsupervised access to the internet can lead to a slew of problems for their development and even worse- iPad kids. So I urge every parent to put down the iPad and pick up the toys.

Your kids will thank you.

Editor’s Letter

By JUNO LE, EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

At what age do you think kids should get electronics?

“After Pre-K or in Pre-K; both of my brothers have phones now and they’re way too young for that. I think they either should have tablets made specifically for kids or none at all.”

JENNA SIDDEEQ (‘23) “10-11; If they start to have iPads at a younger age, they start to become dependent on electronics growing up and it’s only appropriate to have when they are older.”

OMEYA DOZIER (‘23) The main light source exposed to a child nowadays is from the screens of their iPads.

(Photo Credit Cecilia Cheng)

Editorial: Don’t Say Gay Bill Harms More Than Protects Spoiler: The Florida Government can’t erase the existence of the LGBTQ+ community because they don’t like it.

By KNIGHT WRITERS STAFF

Spring is nearing (no thanks to Punxsutawney Phil), which means we will finally be able to go to sports games without it being pitch black outside right before the game even starts. There are lots of things to do in the spring and I suggest that everyone takes advantage of what I like to call the “most leisurely quarter of the school year” and go out and do something. In this issue, we’ve left some suggestions on what to do, what (not) to eat and what to watch. Maybe do a crossword puzzle (check out the back page).

When we returned from Winter Break, our perspective of everything changed with this new mental map that we had to adjust to (forgive me for the TOK reference). Regardless, the school has seemingly thrived and I’d like So go outside, touch some to think that this print issue is a grass, relish the cool Floridacelebration of that.

Spring weather and enjoy Issue 3.

Issue 3 is the first print issue produced from the new RHS newspaper headquarters in room 250. Despite the new environment, the staff has done nothing but flourish in the new year and has produced my favorite print issue yet. We’ve learned a lot from Issues 1 and 2, many thanks to the comments and complaints received from fellow classmates outside of journalism.

The Parental Rights in Education Bill, rightfully nicknamed the “Don’t Say Gay” Bill, continues to pass through Florida committees even gaining approval from Gov. Ron DeSantis. As much as it gains support from conservatives, it receives a wide amount of backlash from progressives and even the White House.

their children.”

It is a blatant attack on this community. They aren’t even trying to hide their homophobia.

“Parents’ rights” is not a reason to put a vulnerable child in a worse position. Guidance offices are some of the only safe places a child might have. Guidance counselors have become outlets for these students. Schools have become an escape, only for the government to come in and take it all away in the name of “protection.”

Just hearing the name of the bill, on the fact alone that it has been deemed “don’t say gay” is terrifying. From the wording of the bill, it is silencing the voices of young children in the LGBTQ+ community. It is scaring many of Protection? Protection from them back into the closet. what? Themselves? Taking away This bill discourages any a viable resource from some studiscussion of sexual orientation dents that they thought was a safe or gender in the classroom. This space because the child might be also affects student support like outed? That is not protection. It is guidance offices. The guidance discrimination. A direct violation officials can out a child to their of one’s rights. What happened to parents because this bill believes it the Equal Rights Protection Act? is a parents’ right to know every- What happened to simple civil thing about their child. It “rein- rights? A right of privacy? force[s] the fundamental right of Discussions about the parents to make decisions regard- LGBTQ+ community should ing the upbringing and control of be had and openly talked about.

this paper was produced by a combination of efforts from the following individuals:

Publication Memberships:

Editor-in-Chief: Juno Le / Online Editor: Zoe Thaxton / Print Editor: Samuel Elliott / Publications Advisor: Nancy Oben

It’s normal. Children have two moms. Children have two dads.

Little kids understand that. Many aren’t confused about that stuff like some adults “fear.” Kids will just go “okay” and continue on with their lives, while it’s the adults that continue on and on about it.

Gay people exist just as much as straight people do. It shouldn’t be taboo to talk about it. What’s so abnormal about two people who love each other? They deserve the right to be respected in all environments, especially in schools.

Don’t take away that right for someone else.

Mission Statement: The role and goal of the RHS News 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 RHS News 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.

News Editor: Vikram Sambasivan / A&E Editor: Cecilia Cheng / Opinion Editor: Lindsey Chadwick / Multimedia Editor: Pim Kruthun / Features Editor: Charlotte Stone / Social Media Editor: Allie Barton / Sports Editor: Grace Hilton Staff Writers: Ethan Adair / JC Thaxton / Ingalls Witte / Keirra McGoldrick / Julia Guillermo / Jaydn Grayes / Christian Dingle / Salma Boughdiri / Nicolas Diaz / Izzy Rivers / Whittaley Bowden / Jeremiah Sawyer / Araya Stearns / Briana Garcia

Policies:

Robinson High School: 6311 S. Lois Ave, Tampa, FL 33616 / Phone: 813-272-3006 / Fax: 813-272-3014 / Hours: 8:30 a.m. to 3:25 p.m.

To learn more about the staff policies for this newspaper, enter this link into your web browser: www.rhstoday.com/about/staff-policies

OPINION

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9

World’s Finest Chocolate: Is It Really the World’s Finest?

Are the World’s Finest Chocolate bars really worth the hype?

By JADYN GRAYES, STAFF WRITER Everyone shares the same flicker of joy when we see students with the blue and white boxes that carry the World’s Finest Chocolate bars. Sold for a dollar a pop, these chocolates are well known and appreciated among students

for just one dollar. This makes it easy for everyone to get one and share with their friends.

The accessibility also makes these chocolate bars easy to find, and students will often be found carrying these boxes around campus all day.

You can’t go wrong with a classic milk chocolate bar.

However, an unanswered question linAll of the different flavors makes it hard gers; Is it really the World’s finest chocolate? to choose which to buy, but there is a clear hierarchy.

And the answer is yes.

1. Almond- This is the perfect sweet These chocolate bars have been around treat. The almonds add a refreshing twist to since 1949 and are still loved after many de- the milk chocolate bar. cades. This is because of their accessibility, affordability and overall deliciousness.

2. Caramel- Gooey and sweet, this bar is loved and appreciated by all.

Students sell boxes of these to fundraise for school extracurriculars and clubs. The 3. Crisp- Similar to a crunch bar, this money is going to help school communities chocolate is fun and satisfying. which is a cause that everyone can appreciate.

4. Milk chocolate- This is the classic that They are extremely affordable and sold everyone loves, and will be around forever.

6. Wafer- While this bar has a nice concept, I can not get behind the idea of wafers in chocolate. They do not mix.

Are We Getting Too Comfortable?

COVID is still a thing. If you test positive, stay away.

By LINDSEY CHADWICK, OPINION EDITOR

5. Dark chocolate- This bar is controversial, either loved or hated. However, I think that it is a classic and under-appreciated.

I’m not the only student with these opinions: “Almond is definitely the best bar, it’s top tier. Wafer though is the worst kind, it should be banished from this earth,” Carson Shields said, expressing his strong opinions on the rankings of these chocolate bars.

These beloved chocolates have been around for decades and will be well-known for many years to come. It’s time to recognize their greatness.

Is Money Buying Their Way to Success?

It’s highly unfair to allow private schools to play in the same district as public schools.

By JC THAXTON, STAFF WRITER We can all agree that private schools are ten times different than public schools for many reasons. When considering sports, private schools should not be in the same districts as public schools. It is just unfair for privates to have to play publics in playoff games.

There are so many reasons this isn’t fair including, the stacked team, “scholarships,” and the many other privileges. For some privates, they can pretty much pick out who can and can’t get into that school of choice. Privates can offer up “academic scholarships,” which in my opinion, should not exist and sounds kind of dumb. I can see why they do that for college but that shouldn’t be meant for high school.

comic by Pim Kruthun.

Is it just me or are people forgetting that COVID is still a real thing? Yes, we have vaccines and boosters in place, but people are still dying. That part just hasn’t gone away.

And yes, a lot of people are more comfortable than last year, myself included. But, if you ask me, when I know of someone who has tested positive, I don’t want to be around them. I think they should fully wait their time quarantining and wear a mask after, correctly, until the virus isn’t contagious anymore or retest until they get a negative.

According to the Hillsborough County COVID Protocols, if one has tested positive for COVID, there are a couple of different options they can take. The first option is waiting 10 days since the positive test and at least 24 hours since the last fever without any medication to lower it. The second option is waiting five days since the positive test and after symptoms are gone, one is allowed to be around people but, must wear a mask for an additional five days. I want to point out that it says once “symptoms have resolved.”

That doesn’t mean just being a little congested or having a little cough, you are in the clear. That is in the list of symptoms.

This new protocol does not require a negative test. In my opinion, that is not very smart because how is someone exactly sure that they are not contagious anymore without that negative test. Personally, I would not be completely comfortable with someone who is out and about, even with a mask on, after five days.

If they are, they should stay six or more feet away. If one goes back too soon, with symptoms, people may feel uncomfortable. This may make one feel out of place but I believe you would be doing that to yourself.

Get a negative test or wait the time.

Simple as that.

RHS students selling chocolate bars have sold over $3,000 worth of goods to their peers (Photo Credit Jadyn Grayes)

These private school kids, like the Academy of the Holy Names girls, come with many privileges.

These advantages include having money to pay for things and getting what they want. Private schools cost money to get into and therefore if they are spending money on education, they will spend money on personal trainers and better equipment for training. Any resources would be easier access to them because they are more capable of getting to these materials.

Maybe during the season, private and public schools can play against each other for good competition or to fill in the number of games, but during districts or when it really matters, they should NOT play one another. For example, during the fall season for RHS football, we played Berkeley Preparatory School and lost. Berkeley has the money for better facilities and other things. The school went to New Orleans to play a football game. I mean what school does this?

Clearly, Berkeley has funds they get into the schools because taking a whole team to a different state is a lot.

This just isn’t fair to the kids at public schools.

Another perfect example of this is from the RHS softball team. During the 2018-19 season, the girls lost to Tampa Catholic and Calvary Christian. It’s almost inevitable, that when you play a private school, they’re going to win because of the advantages they have.

Also, for example, Jesuit HS can’t be accused of recruiting or having kids transfer there because of an “academic scholarship” when we all know it’s probably just for that football team of theirs.

Then again, Plant HS tried to do the same thing in 2019 but later got caught and had a suspension of their football coach.

Other states, including Georgia and Tennessee, have two separate districts. We should do what they do because private schools should not be winning all these state championships having like ten D1 players on the team and we’re like 90 lbs. According to the Georgia High School Association (GHSA), they have separate districts for public and private schools.

On the same topic, according to the Tennessee Secondary School Athletic Association, they also have separated public and private schools so they don’t play each other. This is the same thing with Georgia and it just seems right to have two separate districts with equal levels of teams playing in both; private in one and public in the other.

This is just simply unfair. Private schools have greater resources than a public school could even imagine. There should be no way a private school should play against a public in playoffs. Each should be in their own separate tournaments and shouldn’t even cross paths once regular-season games are over. If other states can separate them into separate districts, why can’t we?

I, as well as many others, am around my family constantly. A lot of them are considered in the “high risk” categories. Even though these new protocols consider someone “not contagious” after five days, I feel there is another side to it. If someone doesn’t feel comfortable with you around them, you should see what you can do to make them feel safe.

Be courteous of other people around you. If you are going to be around a lot of other people and they don’t feel comfortable, stay away or get a negative test to make sure the disease is not spreading.

The Robinson Football team attempts to defend against private school Berkeley Prep, ending with a defeat of 36-0.

(Photo Credit Grace Hilton)

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ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

MidKnight Snacks: Chocolate covered Strawberries

Oronzo Italian Cuisine Was Awfully Disappointing

A quick and easy snack to celebrate strawberry season.

By ALLIE BARTON, SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGER

From service to the price of the water, this place was just disgraceful.

By JEREMIAH SAWYER, STAFF WRITER

With the 2022 strawberry season starting in the beautiful Sunshine state and Valentine’s Day just passing us, what a perfect time to make some delicious chocolate-covered strawberries.

Ingredients: - a package of strawberries - a bag of dark chocolate melting wafers - one bag of white chocolate melting wafers The berries I bought were from Target for $3.29. I purchased the Ghirardelli melting wafers in dark and white chocolate flavors for the chocolates. Each bag of the melting chocolates is $4.69. Milk chocolate is sadly selling out everywhere (due to the upcoming Valentine’s day) but having dark chocolate is a healthier option.

Disgraceful. Terrible. Disappointing. Unpleasant. I don’t think there is any other way to describe my dining experience at Oronzo.

Materials:

With its new location recently opening up in MidTown Tampa, there were so many things that could have been better from service to the food itself.

The storefront of Oronzo, which newly opened up in Midtown Tampa. (Photo Credit Juno Le)

First of all, the wait was forever. My mom ordered a salad which came exceptionally fast and the chicken on top was actually hot, giving me high expectations. Then my spaghetti burrito came. After 20 minutes. There was so much I didn’t expect about it.

- a pot - double boiler pot - parchment paper - a squeeze bottle

The finished product, some lovely chocolate covered strawberries.

(Photo Credit Allie Barton)

Instructions: 1. Set out a pot filled halfway with water.

2. Put a double boiler pot over the pool while bringing the water to a boil. When the water hits the boiler, you put in your choice of chocolate and stir it to help melt it 3. Once fully melted, remove the pot from the stove 4. Get some sticks, or use your hands to dip the strawberries into the melted chocolate. Once you’ve covered the berries, let them chill for 15 to 20 minutes.

5.While letting it cool, repeat steps 1 through 4 with another bag of melting wafers 6. Carefully pour the second batch of wafers into a squeeze bottle and drizzle the chocolate over the covered strawberries. After that has cooled off, you’re ready to enjoy!

I’ve never had chocolate strawberries before, and have only had strawberries a few times before.

Combining the two, I’ve found a way to enjoy strawberries more often. The mouthwatering strawberries were perfectly complemented by the velvety chocolate mixture and pairing the dark and white chocolate drizzle made for a nice contrast.

Spring Fashion 2022

Spring is rapidly approaching, and it’s time to adjust our wardrobe for the warm weather.

By KEIRRA MCGOLDRICK, STAFF WRITER With the winter season coming to a close, it’s exciting to be able to wear short sleeves again. This coming spring, there will be many new trends along with some reoccurring ones that many people love.

instead of the crisp lines and similar colors we know, there will be more contrasting colors and more mixed together.

Other patterns like plaid can be expected to be seen in matching sets this spring and we love to see them.

Many clothing trends are set to come back from last year into the spring season. For example, corset style and tops and crocheted everything. You can also expect to see color galore, color maximalism, color-blocking and more. Reoccurring low and mid-rise jeans are on their way back too. As much as many love crop tops, you can expect to see longer shirts to pair with the jeans, channeling a 2000s vibe.

Spring will be a great time of year to see people express themselves with fashion, fun colors and patterns or more monotone outfits with simple statement pieces are ways people express themselves.

For one, the burrito was folded in half so it felt as if I was biting into a massive lump of bread. It was cold, maybe because of the disregard of time by the workers, or simply because the pasta wasn’t cooked. My first bite of what I expected to be heaven was just disgusting and many of the noodles were hard as rocks. And the waiter even spilled my marinara sauce for dipping when he gave me my food.

40 minutes later, my brother’s food finally came after we asked where it was. He had ordered a choice pasta where you pick the type of pasta, sauce and meat you want.

He had gotten a pretty basic spaghetti with alfredo sauce and chicken.

At this point, I didn’t expect his food to be enjoyable and I was right. After forgetting to make his food for close to an hour, they cooked it and brought his food cold also.

Usually, I try to sympathize with newer workers as the restaurant just opened, but this place gives a bad name to Italian cuisine. It shouldn’t even be called cuisine!

I was, however, in a way, satisfied with the cost. All of our food ranged from $7.99-$9.99 which is exceptionally reasonable so I was happy. Until I wasn’t. The water was $2.75. Who pays close to $3 for water? It was unacceptable.

And to make things worse, the water was obviously not clean. And speaking of clean, with COVID rising once again, the workers weren’t wearing masks. Even though it is optional, I feel like it’s necessary when cooking people’s food to at least be sanitary.

Overall, I would rate my experience a 2/10. The only reason it didn’t get a one was that at least the tables were clean. But if you are in the mood for some Italian food, I DO NOT recommend going to Oronzo.

Ballet flats are also making a comeback, not just basic black ballet flats either, you can expect to see anything from fun colors to classic and pointy. On the complete opposite side of the ballet flats, chunky platform heels are here to stay during spring 2022. One that is particularly popular at the moment would be the Steve Madden heels in the style Charlize that come in many colors. They are a bit pricy with the total coming to around $140 but are considered the “dupe” to the Versace Medusa platform heels that come to a total of $1,425. These heels can pair with basically everything if you get them in black satin.

Many expect to see slightly more monotone colors along with the bright maximalist colors like burnt orange, pastel yellow and tones of purple. Many patterns are returning such as the retro, colorful designs that one would see in the ’70s or ’80s. The abstract swirls are back but slightly different,

Black platform wrap sandals from Aldo.

(Photo Credit Juno Le)

A floral mini dress from H&M that fits perfectly with the trends coming up in Spring 2022.

(Photo Credit Keirra McGoldrick)

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

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Artists to Look for in the Strawberry Festival Lineup The days of the strawberry festival that would definitely be worth your money.

By LINDSEY CHADWICK, OPINION EDITOR The Strawberry Festival is an annual 11-day event in Plant City, Fla. It has live entertainment, attractions and of course strawberry desserts! If you’re at a loss at which artists performing at the Strawberry Festival to watch and when to see them, I’ve compiled a guide using my country music expertise.

hilarious. They’ve got a little bit of a country tune and the lyrics are something I definitely recommend trying to hear. Okay okay, there have been multiple country artists so I’ll give you one that isn’t. Nelly is a hip-hop/ R&B rapper. He’s got some groovy songs that make you want to dance. My top three songs of Nelly’s would have to be Dilemma, Ride Wit Me and of course the classic Hot March 3 - This is the first day of the festival. There will In Herre. I could envision myself getting into these songs for sure. be three different shows with three different artists. I would recommend going to see the band, Lady A, at 7:30 p.m. This March 13 - Reset your memory of Mar 13, 2020 with a great country music band has so many good songs that just make you performance by Sam Hunt. Hunt is a country artist but he brings want to sing and dance along. My top three songs of Lady A’s, that a little pop flair into his songs. Out of the entire strawberry festival I would look forward to them performing, would be Need You lineup, he is the one person that I want to go see. My top three Now, Just A Kiss and You Look Good. But, before you hear Lady songs of Hunt’s, that I would want to see him perform, would be A, make sure you get some strawberry shortcake! one of his most recent songs 23, Ex To See and my favorite, Break Up In A Small Town.

March 9 - Jake Owen, another country artist, performs at 7:30 p.m. Owen has so many hidden gems. He’s had a little under Now here is where they get you. Buying the concert ticket 10 number one songs, but almost all of his songs are good. I does not include admission. You will have to pay an additional $5 definitely recommend grabbing a strawberry or two and watching for children 6-12 and $10 for adults 13 and older. his performance. If I was going to see Owen perform, I would Go get your tickets right now! I know I am. I have never been hope he would sing Made For You, Barefoot Blue Jean Night and before but I am so excited to get my cute little country outfit on American Country Love Song. and jam my heart out. I know I wouldn’t want to miss out on all March 12 - If you’re looking for some comedic singing, the fun and attractions.

Bobby Bones and the raging idiots will bring you some laughter.

I have heard some of the songs they have written and they are

Neil Young’s Quitting of Spotify Reveals Larger Issue at Play

Josh Turner performing at the 2018 Strawberry Festival.

(Photo Credit Nancy Oben)

STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL LINEUP PLAYLIST

The singer of “Keep on Rockin’ in the Free World” appears to be doing just that.

By SAMUEL ELLIOTT, PRINT MANAGING EDITOR

Scan here to listen!

The lineup for the 2022 Strawberry festival is here!

With amazing artists like Nelly, The Beach Boys and Lady A, there is much to look forward to. Out of the 22 artists performing at the Strawberry Festival, this playlist was hand-selected with the top 8 artists and their best songs. You are in for a treat. Although this playlist consist mainly of country for the Strawberry Festival theme, there is sure to be something for all music genre lovers to enjoy. This playlist will bring you a delightful feeling.

Not all the songs have a country feel; I wanted to provide some variety. Some are upbeat while others are slow and meaningful.

The Knight Writers have compiled a playlist of 36 songs of the most popular artists playing at the Strawberry Festival this year, if you enjoy the songs on this playlist it might just make you want to hear it live next month at the Strawberry Festival.

Folk Artist Neil Young, among the various streaming services he’s endorsed or rejected.

(Photo Credit Samuel Elliott)

On Tuesday, Jan. 24, as many have probably heard, folk artist Neil Young removed his catalog from the streaming service Spotify, in protest of their support of podcaster Joe Rogan. Young’s argument was that “The Joe Rogan Experience” was promoting false information regarding the current coronavirus pandemic, and Spotify’s endorsement of it was unsafe and irresponsible. After a few days’ exchanges of letters and condemnations, Young issued an ultimatum: remove Joe Rogan or lose Neil Young.

“All of Us Are Dead” has Me Braindead

manager. While this might be somewhat doable as a portion of income for massive artists like Neil Young, independent artists are given a far shorter end of the stick; doubly so if they’re a single-person operation.

Run for your life!

By CHRISTIAN DINGLE, STAFF WRITER With people turning into zombies left and right, there are not many places to hide inside the school.

With the sale of physical music being reduced to merely a novelty in markets such as the United States, as well as the fact that live concerts (and thus merch sale opportunities) have reduced to near-nothing within the past two years, the bulk of an artist’s income might be solely digital music. In the past, this might have been somewhat doable with the sale of actual .mp3 and .flac files, however, it just doesn’t work when artists are getting paid fractions of a penny for their hard work.

The deal didn’t follow through and Young kept to his word by removing almost all of his music from Spotify, save a few compilation tracks and features. This meant that the sole platforms still carrying his disThis really reflects a larger trend of the cography included Apple Music, Amazon devaluation of music as a whole. Streaming Music and some hi-res streaming services services provide just about the least value such as Tidal and Qobuz. consumers and artists have ever gotten for Now I’m not saying that Neil is com- their money in the music industry and the pletely in the right here (his proclamation of abandonment of these services by artists is “I LOVE APPLE” in a later Instagram post the natural consequence of that. Services was pretty cringe-inducing), but the situa- like Bandcamp have tried to pick up the tion at large alludes to a deeper problem at torch by providing an artist-friendly way to play—the inherent inequality of streaming make fairly off their music and their growth services and the problems of their industry is resultant of that. Even Neil’s recommendominance. Business Insider recently re- dations of hi-res services such as Tidal are a vealed that artists get paid $0.003 to $0.005 better option: at least they provide the user per stream on Spotify, less than a single pen- with something to keep after spending their ny. That means even if a song gets 100,000 money. streams—an insane number—the artist Neil Young’s choice to jump off Spowould receive at most $500, which is then tify’s burning ship was a good one—as it reduced further, as the first ones to be paid are often the distributor, record label and doesn’t look like it’ll be “landing on water” anytime soon.

Official promotional poster for “All of us are dead”, portraying students trying to survive the zombie apocalypse. (Photo: Netflix)

I, however, didn’t enjoy watching this show. Despite every episode ending with a cliffhanger, I couldn’t bring myself to find interest in watching what happens next.

While there’s a good balance between the timing of dialogue and action, the action scenes are very intense, while the dialogue scenes are unbelievably boring. Most of the action is just chasing scenes, and the dialogue is mostly about unintriguing drama.

Another thing I would like to warn you about is the gore. Yes, there is a lot of blood and gore in this show. If you don’t The new Korean Netflix horror film like that, then this show would definitely “All Of Us Are Dead” was released on Fri- make you uncomfortable. day, Jan. 28 and has piqued interest among To be honest, this show could’ve been American fans. The setting takes place in so much better. I was really hoping for less a South Korean city, where a zombie outbreak starts from a high school science dialogue (unless there was actual good drateacher experimenting with rats. Starting ma) and more intense scenes. The setting is with a girl getting bitten by an infected rat, also limited to a school, which makes the she slowly starts her transformation into a show less intriguing. On a scale of 1-10, with 10 being very good, I’d give this show zombie. a 5. While I DID enjoy the chasing scenes, As the outbreak starts to spread further I can’t help but point out the repetition. If throughout the high school, students pan- there was good drama to compensate for ic and try their absolute best to escape the the repetition of the action, I would defichaos, making this show very fast-paced. nitely recommend watching this show.

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RHS journalism's Mardi Gras Playlist Mardi Gras, or Fat Tuesday, is celebrated on the first of March this year Louisiana and elsewhere. To celebrate, we've put together a playlist of authentic Cajun, Zydeco, and Blues music from the area and elsewhere.

Laissez les bon temps rouler!

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