Issue 4
Volume 62
May 4, 2022
free!
Nicolai Merrild ('23) gazes at the sea life that Rachel Murry ('23) is pointing out to him at Prom. (Photo by J. Le)
oh my god guys look this one is like a square that’s so cool
Knight Writers
Knights took over the Aquarium for a "whale"-y fun night. By JUNO LE, EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
The year just keeps getting betta for RHS to see how all of that planning and communication upperclassmen. works," Teplin said. In true Camelot fashion, Robinson High SGA's efforts clearly paid off as the venue School brought back the Night of Knights after received generally good reactions. Such as by Priya two years sans-prom by taking the upperclassmen Sambasivian ('22): "I was super impressed with under the sea and into Atlantis. prom at the aquarium. I think SGA members, especially the juniors, did a fantastic job setting Well, not actually. But the Florida Aquarium everything up, and I'm happy knowing that this supplied just enough sea life to fit the theme. prom will be one to remember." A good majority of the event was planned and Other students loved prom as well: organized by the incoming Student Government Association (SGA) leadership, Sela Teplin ('23), "I loved the location because it was nice to be SGA President, and Sara Gainer ('23), Senior able to walk around and not be stuck in one place. Class President, who rallied students and teachers The Aquarium made Prom feel like a Hollywood to a Prom Pep Rally the day before. celebrity party," Madeline Stimac ('22) noted. Students were greeted with a jellyfish tank as soon "It was my first time talking to different as they walked through the ticket check right professionals involved with these kinds of dances, by the escalator, which would take them to the like the photo booth guy, and that was super cool second floor. There, they had the chance to stick
Get In The Know On... FEATURES . . . 2&3 SPORTS . . . . 3 NEWS . . . . 4&5 A&E . . . . 6 OPINION . . . . 7 MULTIMEDIA . . . 8 & Much More!
their hands in the tanks (two fingers of course) to "I thought the photo booth was a great touch either starfish or stingray. addition to the entire experience. I'm really glad they included it because I've always seen at other Away from prying hands were more sea school dances, people do photo booths and leading animals. Tanks lined the walls in a long hallway up to prom I was thinking 'Woah I hope they have that led to an even more massive display. Attendees one' so it was a really nice surprise," Celeste Lara of the dance were able to gaze at sharks, sea turtles ('23) said. and even smaller crustaceans like the crowdfavorite, sexy shrimp. In true Floridian fashion, it But of course, what's a dance without the was an opportunity for fish enthusiasts to geek out actual dancing. Everyone krilled it on the dance alongside their classmates and dates over the sea floor despite the unpopular DJ. creatures. "The DJ overplayed every single song...30 After gushing over the marine life, one seconds more than it needed to be played. He could've gone to a Dippin' Dots stand for a just wasn't the best and the Homecoming DJ was complimentary cup of the ice cream snack. Flavor better," Xavier Difo ('22) commented. options varied from cookies and cream to rainbow For wallflowers, the night could've been ice and even brownie batter was available. Students were hooked on the unlimited free ice cream and spent wandering existentially and observing sexy shrimp; others could've (sea)horsed around on the tended to return for at least two more cups. dance floor. Overall, the event reeled in a lot of Memorabilia of the event could be captured excited attendees who left the Aquarium mostly with the prom-classic photo booth. SGA secured a satisfied with the night. mirror photo booth team to provide attendees an opportunity to capture not-so-candid memories of the night, with pose prompts and a prop table.
COVER
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Culinary Students Help Out Cafeteria Staff Cafeteria staff gets a couple of extra hands from Culinary students. By ALLIE BARTON, SOCIAL MEDIA EDITOR
Mariah Scott ('24) (front) and Giselle Denson ('23) (back) seen helping out the cafeteria staff by crafting some lunches for the student body. (Photo by A. Barton)
Throughout the 2021-22 school year, Robinson has felt the blow of "It would be impossible for us to sustain feeding all of the students being understaffed, especially in the cafeteria. The current staff includes the we serve daily without the help of these student volunteers. I am extremely new Student Nutrition Manager, Michelle Armstrong, and the three student proud of the work they are doing and their professional behavior in the nutrition employees, Samantha Heflin, Ileida Rodriguez and Hattie Rowe. kitchen, it has been an honor and a pleasure to work alongside them and I am truly grateful for their help," Armstrong said. Recruitment and hiring have been a struggle across the Hillsborough County District, impacting Robinson more than most schools in the county. With staffing at impossible lows, it was necessary to look for alternative With our school only having three student nutrition employees diligently options and recruit from within. The Access Point Students are involved in hanging in there and serving the students daily, help is needed at this point. a community-based vocational training program, and they saw the need Armstrong reached out to Chef Mitch Smithey, who runs the culinary in the kitchen/cafeteria and volunteered to help. They have been doing a program at Robinson, to see if there was a way to allow the culinary students fantastic job in the mornings, ensuring the supply of cookies remains to gain kitchen experience while helping the kitchen staff feed RHS's student constant. Currently, they have four student nutritionist positions open for body. Smithey agreed and since then the students have been a considerable anyone 18 and up. For more information, you can go to the Hillsborough help daily. district website, go to Employment/Vacancies or you can email Armstrong at michelle.armstring@hcps.net.
Best Summer Jobs for Students
Summer jobs are a big topic for high school students this time of year. When there's no time during the year, summer is the perfect time to get an idea on how the job world works. For some, summer is a great option to start their first job and keep on a routine similar to school days.
Summer is the perfect time for a job, it's time to get started on it! By KEIRRA McGOLDRICK, STAFF WRITER
Some jobs teenagers could take part in this summer could be becoming a dog walker, babysitter, being a lifeguard, or even working at a fast food Working at a movie theater or becoming a life guard are also great or retail job like McDonald's or Chick-fil-A. If it's a good fit for you, you can even continue it into the new school year just as a part-time experience. options for over the summer especially life guarding because of all the people visiting the beaches and pools this time of year. Simple, non-franchise, jobs such as dog walking, babysitting and Other more "traditional" types of jobs people think of when you say house sitting are great options for those just entering the job world and it teaches people responsibility and accountability that is necessary for careers the words "summer jobs" would typically be something along the lines of in the future. "Getting a summer job can boost many skills and habits that fast food or retail. Sometimes the more traditional route isn't a bad one at can carry throughout a career," Tara Struyk said on why summer jobs can all. Teenagers tend to lean more this direction when thinking of a part-time job over the summer that could also continue into the school year. be beneficial in the long run. Baby sitting and dog walking jobs can be easily attained by simply asking around and seeing if anyone needs what job you're offering to give like babysitting, dog walking, house sitting, etc.
Summer is just an amazing opportunity to put yourself and getting a job over the summer enhances the possibilities of meeting new people and becoming a more responsible individual.
RHS Talent Show Wows Audience The first talent show since 2020 takes place on April 14. By GRACE HILTON, SPORTS EDITOR
Hunter Patterson ('22) during her show-winning singing performance. (Photo by G. Hilton)
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FEATURES
Last year, COVID-19 stopped all school From drumming to singing to dance, the events from taking place, including the yearly show had a large range of talent that made for an talent show. Now, the Tri-M Club has decided that interesting show. they would host the show and bring back one of After the show had ended, each performer the highlights of the year for musically inclined stood on stage next to one another. Mr. Revett students. announced the winners from last place to first. This show is special because of the cash prize In third place, Priya Sambasivan ('22) and offered to the top three winners. The auditions Lucy Frank ('22). Frank played guitar and sang started at the end of May and closed on April 1. During the show, there were a total of twelve acts, "The Ballad of Mona Lisa" by Panic! At The Disco including RHS teachers Maureen Pelamati and alongside Sambasivan. Aline Loges as exhibit performances. The show In second place, Jayden Fernandez ('23) lasted an hour and had a large turnout of friends performed "Bitter Sweet," a self written song, and family of performers. which was performed on piano.
Lifeguard Robbie Rice ('22) keeps things safe at his job at the South Tampa YMCA. (Photo courtesy of Robbie Rice)
I was excited and I hope that people liked my song," said Fernandez. In first, Hunter Patterson ('22) sang "On My Own" from "Les Misérables", which won her the first place cash prize. "I was surprised because I've done the talent show two years before, my freshmen year and my sophomore year, both years I didn't win," Patterson said, "I kind of went back to my roots, which is musical theater. So, I went back to a song I used to audition with." The show was able to raise money and celebrate the talent of Robinson High School.
The Bucket List For An Epic Summer Let's have fun in the sun!
By CECILIA CHENG, A&E EDITOR With exams being just around the corner, you know what that means! Summer is finally (almost) here! You can just feel it in the air, with this ridiculous heatwave that has got me literally glued to my air conditioner. Whether you plan on doing more studying over the break or just relaxing, we all need to have some fun after being under so much constant stress. Here are 15 ideas you can add to your summer bucket list. 1: Go to a rage room: what better way to get all your stress out than destroying and breaking things. 2: Have a lake day / pool party: have a fun day with your friends while also cooling off.
Robinson Knights Take Loss to Steinbrenner The Knights lose to the Spartans (5-0) . By NICOLAS DIAZ, STAFF WRITER The Knights went against the Spartans on Tuesday April 19. The boys played hard against the Spartans all throughout the game. In the second inning, Lamont Atkins III almost made it to home base to score the first point. Sadly, he was forced out before he made it to the base. In the first inning the Knights' pitcher was able to strike a couple of batters out, but their pitcher did the same to us. In the end, our team lost the game 5-0.
3: Road trip: if you are anything like me, traveling with friends or family is one of my all-time favorite activities. You can make so many great memories and even explore new places. Russell Sandefer ('23) about to release his pitch. He's reflected on potential growth for the team. "Our lineup just needs to fix and improve their approach. Our coaching staff has been doing a great job of going out there and being competitive," Sandefer said.
4: Go to a concert: The Weeknd is coming to Tampa on Aug. 4 along with Doja Cat! Buy a ticket before it's too late! 5: Pull an all-nighter: now that we don't have to wake up at 7 a.m. every day, why not challenge yourself and stay up all night and have fun? 6: Have a "food tour": take a day and go around with your friends to find the best food in town!
Photo by N. Diaz.
7: Beach day: a must-do for the summer. I mean, we live in Florida. 8: Go thrifting: I went thrifting with my friends for the first time earlier this year and I had a blast! Going thrifting is great if you are looking for some new clothes on a budget. 9: Have a photoshoot: time to spice up your Instagram with new pics! 10: Tie-Dye day: although this can get a little messy, it is a new fun activity to try with your friends and family. You can even get your younger siblings to participate too. 11: Movie night: you can never go wrong with these. Grab a bowl of popcorn, sit back and enjoy the movie. 12: Have a painting/picnic day: I'm not the most artistic person, but I'll definitely be there for the food.
Nathan Jennewein ('23) finishing his pitch to Steinbrenner. After games, players could think about what they could've done differently. "I think we had chances, but in the end we couldn't finish and the bats just went cold." Photo by N. Diaz.
13: Go scuba diving: even though I have never done this before, it's not a bad idea to get scuba certified over the summer. 14: Learn a new skill: whether it be knitting or learning a new language, summer is the perfect time to learn something new. 15: Escape room/Haunted mansions: I went to an escape room with a few of my friends last summer and had a blast! It's definitely on my bucket list again for this summer. You won't regret it! Regardless of your plans over the summer, I think all of us deserved this long-awaited break. Now, go make this summer a blast and the best it can be! There is only ONE "summer 2022," so make it worth it!
Flag Football pushes on Robinson's Flag Football team is giving it their all this season. By SALMA BOUGHDIRI, STAFF WRITER
This year Robinson's flag football team has of their players are somewhat new, they play quite achieved many goals and won numerous games, well and have adanced to a great extent. ultimately marking them the number one team in Brianna Stearns ('22), one of the team the state at the moment. The team's current goal captains, said,"On varsity we have a couple people now is to win the state championship. that came up from JV. But we do have a lot of "We won five in a row, so anything could younger JV. Kids this year." be less than that obviously in terms of winning, When big games are approaching, the team that [the state championship] has to be the goal. But obviously our goal all the time is to improve likes to practice on the basics. our general team and I think with our group of "We just practice the little things, catching freshmen and sophomores we have done that," said balls and pulling flags, we do scout teams to see Joshua Saunders, the team's coach. what other teams are going to do," Stearns said. The team is consisted of 41 members, The This is not Stearns's first year as captain. She biggest class being sophomores. Even though a lot was also the junior varsity captain last year.
Dominic Fernandez ('24) about to bunt the ball. As a sophomore, Fernandez has future seasons ahead of him to grow as a player. "I just need to improve my batting and get better at judging the pitch." Photo by N. Diaz.
"We have a head captain and then there is three other captains on varsity. We just help organize team bonding activities and help lead the stretches and the jumping jacks before and after games," Stearns stated. Coach Saunders feels confident in this year's team. "I think they are doing a pretty good job for the most part. We are the number one team in the state right now so if we continue to do the things that we are suppose to do I think we have a good chance to be at the state championship," said Saunders.
FEATURES & SPORTS
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4 / NEWS The vote came to a close tie, but as the tension built "The coronation process was stressful," Hill said. up, it was announced that Malachi Hill and Mattie Ward "I think I had a decent chance at winning but never will be Robinson's 2022 prom king and queen. underestimated my opponents. They're all good guys "I remember the feeling of being nervous and to hear with plenty of friends. I'm just happy for the people who my name called out in front of the whole school was just a decided to vote for me." big relief," Hill said. "It felt like I was on Cloud 9." Additionally, Ward was grateful she got the Ward was also surprised when she heard her name opportunity to be a part of this process. She voiced how being called over the big speakers. Many have told her that running for prom queen has even helped her make new she was for sure going to win. Despite all the support, she connections and build her confidence when it comes to didn't let this get in her head and still treated all of her talking to new people, which helped her in the long run. fellow nominees with respect.
On Friday, April 22, the Student Government Association (SGA) put on a Pep Rally to celebrate the crowning of this year's prom king and queen in preparation for Robinson's first prom in two years. Dylan Carson, Gunnar Gibson, Malachi Hill, and Sam Valenti were the nominees for this year's king, while Jocelyn Carron, Christal Rolack, Joleyne Rodriguez and Mattie Ward were the queen nominees.
My favorite part about Robinson would have to be cheering at football games," Ward said. "I’ve cheered at pretty much every varsity game since freshman year and I am so thankful for the experience. From tumbling in front of the crowd to hyping everyone up I will never forget my high school football experience."
Hill will be attending University of Central Florida in the fall while Ward will be traveling to Baton Rouge, LA to attend Southern University and A&M College.
"When I won prom queen, I was so shocked," Ward While running for queen taught her several valuable said. "Malachi and I were both stressing before we walked life lessons, just like Hill, she also admitted it was a lot to out and hearing the announcer say my name for queen manage on top of her school work at times. was so calming. I am so thankful for everyone who voted "To be honest I started campaigning for prom queen for me." since homecoming," she said. "It was definitely stressful Hill decided to run for king because he thought it but worth all of the hard work. The other candidates did would be one last "bang" before leaving high school, but have me a little worried, but at the end of the day If I he did admit that while he had fun, it was a lot of work. didn’t win everything would’ve been alright.
Knights'Coronation the
NEWS / 5
Caroline Brindise ('23) presents the prom queen's crown and sash.
Charlie Thaxton ('23) jumps up and down during the junior call part of the spirit chant.
Some RHS students, such as Nathan Pham (’22) are in agreement with these policies in the
In a statement provided by Georgetown University’s Chief of Public Health Officer, Ranit Mishori, he explained the reason for the reinstatement of masking policies, explaining that the new measures are in response to “…significant increases in COVID-19 cases, mainly among undergraduate students.”
In reaction to the recent large spikes in the number of cases of the Omicron subvariants BA.2 and BA.2.12, many universities across the nation have reinstated quarantine-era mask policies as a method of reducing cases. Such universities include, but are not limited to: Columbia University, Georgetown University, George Washington University, University of Rochester, American University, Johns Hopkins University, and more.
“I personally wasn’t too bothered by reinstated mask policies, just because I’ve been wearing one in a school setting for so long. I think that for my school specifically it was very extreme in that they went from no requirement to requiring KN95's everywhere (which is what we started the spring semester with). I would’ve liked to see at least some transition with the op-
“It’s hard to define justified in this sense, because if my school really cared about COVID precautions they would’ve established surveillance and even mandatory testing much sooner,” said Woodward. “I think that testing should be the core of the COVID safety approach, rather than flip flopping between mask mandates, just because there’s always going to be people going
tion to wear surgical masks since we’re all fully vaccinated and boosted, but that’s my only “I think the mandates are in accordance critique. As someone who is currently infected with recent spikes in covid cases. It seems as with what I’m pretty sure is the BA.2 variant though we’ve all forgotten about the pandemic, though, I think AU made the right call timbut it still exists. Masks stop the spread— it’s ing-wise” Woodward said. that simple” said Pham. As with any issue that deals with one’s own RHS Alumnus Anna Woodward (’21), personal rights, the justification of the authoriwho currently attends American University (one ty's right to institute these infringements, in the of the colleges with the strictest COVID-19 reg- name of public safety, can be drawn into quesulations), stands in agreement with Pham. tion.
name of public health and safety.
out, especially in a big city that has not had a mask mandate for a while. Overall I’d still say that colleges are somewhat justified just because they’re trying to keep people safe, even if I don’t fully agree with their approach.”
By VIKRAM SAMBASIVAN, NEWS EDITOR
Omicron subvariants have caused a recent increase in COVID-19 cases, affecting policies at many colleges across the nation.
Resurgence of Quarantine-Era Making Policies at Many Universities
Jacob Maskin ('22) dips Rafael Toronzo ('22) during the dance off between each grade level.
Photos By ZOE THAXTON, ONLINE MANAGING EDITOR
Story By CECILIA CHENG, A&E EDITOR
As summer is fast approaching many people are looking for ways too cool off. These two recipes are a great place to start they are both leave you feeling refreshed and hydrated.
Cobb Salad
MidKnight Snacks: Summer
Ingredients: 1 head medium head of Romain Lettuce 2 Eggs 1 cup Cherry tomatoes 6oz Bacon, browned and chopped (6 slices) 2 Chicken Breast 1/2 Red Onion, thinly sliced 1/2 cup Feta Cheese 1 sliced Avocado Cobb Salad Dressing 3 Tbsp Balsamic Vinegar 1 Tbsp Dijon Mustard 2 Garlic Cloves minced or pressed 1/3 cup Extra Virgin Olive Oil 1/4 Tsp Salt & 1/8 Tsp Black Pepper
Story & Photo by WHITTALEY BOWDEN, STAFF WRITER Watermelon Mint Smoothie Ingredients: 1 Watermelon 1 cup chopped Cucumber, peeled and seeds removed 3 Large Mint Leaves Directions: - Cut watermelon into cubes and slice cucumbers into bag and then freeze. - In a blender combine the watermelon, cucumber, and mint add a splash of water then blend with food processor or blender.
Directions: - Sauté chopped bacon on a skillet until browned and crisp, then transfer to a paper-towel-lined plate to cool. Cook 2 hard boiled eggs then peel and quarter. - Chop and rinse romaine lettuce and place in a large bowl. Arrange remaining salad ingredients (chicken, eggs, avocado, tomatoes, onion, feta cheese and bacon) over salad then sprinkle the finely chopped parsley over the salad. - Transfer dressing ingredients to a mason jar and shake until well blended. Drizzle over salad before serving.
Summer Fashion 2022 As the weather heats up, it's time for a new wardrobe. By KEIRRA McGOLDRICK, STAFF WRITER As the summer season quickly approaches, it's time to update our wardrobes to fit with the coming trends. So put away those sweatshirts and jeans, it's time for the tank tops and shorts! There are many styles that are coming back and staying from Spring. The crocheted and knitted look is here to stay from the Spring season. From tank tops, to skirts, to shorts, crochet is becoming the style of the year with the way it can be worn by anyone, everywhere. There is also the idea of "dopamine dressing," which is the mixing and matching of different patterns and colors. The best part of "dopamine dressing" is the fact that there are no rules and you can do whatever you want with it to express yourself.
color with more monotone outfits. There will be different shades and tints of purple, hot pink, pale yellows and scarlet red, which is a bright red with a hint of orange. Sky blue is also making a comeback as it is flattering on any skin tone and hair color. There will be shoes like mules, which are backless sandals, especially ones with small heels. Also 2000s platform flip flops if different colors and styles are staying in style this summer than ever. Retro sneakers such as the New Balance 550s and the Reebok classics will also be a big thing.
Since summer is coming up, it's time to talk swimsuits. Underwire bikini tops and straight, square necklines are both coming Silk and satin are also huge candidates for the style of the year. in style this summer. Cutouts in one-pieces are going to be more Satin has been in style since fall of last year, has not gone away and prevalent along with glitter. Towel textured material is a fun contrast is not suspected to go away any time soon. Low and mid-rise skirts to the traditional swimsuit material we are all so used to seeing over are also coming into fashion along with midi and maxi skirts and the years. dresses. Summer is a great time to show your personality through Color, color and more color. This summer, if you see anything, clothing. Fun colors and patterns are a great way to express yourself it's going to be lots and lots of color. There will be bright pops of if you just let them move you.
A sage green, flowy mini-dress from Fashion Nova which acts as the monotone aspect of the outfit and the white heels acting as the attention grabbing bright color to tie together the perfect summer outfit. (Photo by K. McGoldrick)
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ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
Top Caliber Construction, Inc. Supports Robinson Journalism
this paper was produced by a combination of efforts from the following individuals:
Publication Memberships:
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.
Editor-in-Chief: Juno Le / Online Editor: Zoe Thaxton / Print Editor: Samuel Elliott / Publications Advisor: Nancy Oben 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 / Jadyn Grayes / Christian Dingle / Salma Boughdiri / Nicolas Diaz / Isabella Gonzalez / Izzy Rivers / Whittaley Bowden / Araya Stearns / Briana Garcia Robinson High School: 6311 S. Lois Ave, Tampa, FL 33616 / Phone: 813-272-3006 / Fax: 813272-3014 / Hours: 8:30 a.m. to 3:25 p.m.
Policies: To learn more about the staff policies for this newspaper, enter this link into your web browser: www.rhstoday.com/about/staff-policies
Blood Donation: is it worth it?
OPIN ION
RHS students go Head to Head.
By CHRISTIAN DINGLE, STAFF WRITER You're in a big, smelly bus. The next thing you see is a sharp, pointy needle poking into your veins. Drawing blood from your own body, extracting the very fluid that keeps you alive. Sounds scary, doesn't it? The repulsive thought of a long stick of metal breaching the surface of the skin. The question is: do students really need to be donating blood?
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The American Red Cross Blood drive has been going on for a while now. According to the American Red Cross website, students started giving blood in 1898 to “provide medical support to American soldiers and their families during and after the Spanish-American war.” I've only been at Robinson for two years, and every time the blood drive comes around, I notice that only a few people actually participate in it. I mean, it would make sense that people would be scared of having a needle extracting blood from their arm. But, I also believe that people actually do care about other people's health, and that's why they donate blood, regardless of the big scary needle. But what about the reward? Sure, you may feel good after saving someone's life, but what else do you get out of it? Some chips? Maybe a cookie? A T-Shirt? I think if they properly compensated donators, more students would donate blood. It doesn't have to be a cash reward, maybe a pizza party or a field day would be better. I think it'd be better off if they did blood drives at workplaces and offices, not where students are. It makes more sense to do that, as I believe adults would feel more inclined to donate blood than students. Students couldn't care less about the blood drive here, so why continue doing it?
Mission Statement:
By SAMUEL ELLIOTT, PRINT MANAGING EDITOR I'm a frequent blood donor, and have been for two years now. I try to donate whenever possible, and the school's blood drive really helps with that. In fact, out of the seven times I've donated in the past, five of them have been through an event organized at Robinson. Yes, I am blatantly biased here. Through donating, I've learned that I have the "universal donor" blood type, meaning my blood can be donated to anyone. This means that the Oneblood donation center leaves me several voicemails, emails, and physical letters as soon as I'm able to donate again, trying to suction up as much as they can of my iron-rich liquid gold. It's all completely worth it though, for many reasons. For example, did I mention how much FREE STUFF I get from giving blood? Like seriously, you get so much FREE STUFF from giving blood. Here's an itemized list of what I've been granted in the past three years: T-shirts (3), Pairs of socks (2), Fleece Blanket (1), E-gift cards (~$60 worth), Cans of Coke (5), Bottles of Gatorade (2), Bottles of water (3), Slices of pizza (2), Assorted cakes & cookies (4) Not to mention, at post-donation, you ascend to the morally superior blood donation club, where you get to exchange thumbs-ups with other people on the street who are also wearing the t-shirts or still have gauze wrapped around their arms from donations. It's like the "Jeep Wave" but with the added coolness of not being afraid of needles. Speaking of moral superiority, this is a completely infallible argument. If you choose not to donate blood, you're literally making it harder for someone in a life-threatening situation to get the blood they need. Not only that, but for people like myself, who can only take blood from the same blood type, knowing that there's a decently-sized store of it somewhere, thanks to other donors, alleviates a lot of worries if I were to end up in a life-threatening situation. You want to become an objectively better person? Donate blood. Giving blood has a myriad of health benefits, as well. For one, given the fact that there is simply less blood in your body post-donation, your blood pressure experiences a temporary drop and kicks your bone marrow into blood-producing high gear again. Not to mention, you're provided with a full health screen after each donation, allowing you a free and easy way to track your cholesterol, blood pressure, and iron count. I even got a free COVID-19 antibody test with a donation last year. Unless they have a pre-existing condition, can't donate for health reasons, or anything else, I don't see why one wouldn't bother donating blood if the opportunity presents itself. And there being a donation option at Robinson, makes it all the easier. It's a good way to make a positive impact in your community while also having a good time.
OPINION
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Songs for Summer
... and another Editor’s Letter
By LINDSEY CHADWICK, OPINION EDITOR The Knight Writers are hooking you up with the best summer playlist you will be able to find. These songs can be played in the car, at the beach, by the pool, or just to listen in your headphones. With this playlist, you will not be able to resist even the smallest head bob. This compilation has everything: slow, catchy, upbeat and vibey songs.
Multimedia Editor’s Letter By JUNO LE, EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
With basically a month left of school, we’re now entering the phase of constant assessments and exams. I don’t know about any of you but I will be using Issue 4 as a reminder that I did have fun during my junior year before the burnout hit. Issue 4 may look a lot different than previous issues of Knight Writers this year, but if you really compare the writing, there’s been clear growth in work. We’ve had a lot of growing pains together but I wouldn’t trade the experiences I had with this year’s staff for anything in the world. With this, I strongly encourage anyone avid fan of Knight Writers to consider joining the staff next year (See Mrs. Webster in Room 250 if interested). This is the last issue the Knight Writers staff will produce with Samuel Elliott as our Print Managing Editor. I am so grateful for all the work, talent and time he’s provided for this publication and I will miss him dearly. Not a single print issue this year would’ve been possible without his extensive knowledge. It’s been a wild ride and I wish Sam the very best of luck in college.
By SAMUEL ELLIOTT, PRINT MANAGING EDITOR They've asked me if I could do one as well, so here we go: We went with a shorter issue this time, for many reasons that luckily anyone reading this paper doesn't have to care about. This is also my last issue as Print Managing Editor, as next year I'm moving on to university. I started working in the journalism team in 2020 as a staff writer, and in 2021 they asked me if I'd like to take the position of Print Managing Editor. I tentatively accepted, and after a summer's training in InDesign & Photoshop I went into the position. Given that my main job is overseeing the production of the newspaper, I've tried to make it so each issue is, if not good, at least fun and interesting. Over the course of this year, we've worked together as a staff to produce four print issues, with each one better than the last. The entire editorial team, as well as every last staff writer, has put in their best work in each issue, and it truly can't be understated how much of a collaborative effort making a newspaper is. My sincere thanks goes out to everyone on staff for dealing with me messaging them at 3 a.m. for stuff, and for making it a great time. Here's to Issue 4.
Knights @ FSPA 2022 The Knight Writers staff recently attended the FSPA State Convention 2022 in Orlando, where they had fun, took journalism classes and particpated in a plethora of journalistic contests against other schools. We're happy to present one of the results of those contests, an "Edit to The Beat" timed video made by RHS Multimedia Editor Pim Kruthun. Scan the QR code below with your cell phone or other device to check it out!
This also goes for the other four seniors on staff. All five of you have worked diligently to act as excellent mentors for the younger staff members as well as amazing friends. Good luck with your post-graduation endeavours and may the adult world treat you well. Finals are right around the corner, but so is summer. I can't wait to welcome everyone back in August when I return for my second year as the Editor-in-Chief of RHSToday.com and Knight Writers. Enjoy your summers!
thanks forr!a great yea
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