RHS Knight Writers Vol. 62 Issue 1 | Oct. 2021

celebrating our 62nd BIRTHDAY! as Knight Writers

Volume 62

Issue 1

Knight Writers

Get In The Know On...

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

October 15th, 2021

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Camelot Cleared for Construction Robinson’s campus to be rebuilt, catching up to the 21st century.

By JUNO LE, EDITOR-IN-CHIEF After over six decades of its establishment, Robinson The buildings themselves will be exterior-oriented. All High School is at the cusp of a makeover. students will enter the class from the exterior of the building, similar to the entrance to the main office, so there won’t Starting as an air conditioning replacement project, the be that middle hallway that everyone’s used to. Egro, the school’s old-age has become sort of an issue. Established in classrooms will be bigger and there’ll be a smaller courtyard.

1959, the majority of Robinson’s campus was built before modern air conditioning was common in the state of FlorSince classrooms will expand as a result of the new deida. The windows, walls and tiles of the school aren’t quite sign, the beloved catwalk above the patio outside of the cafrated for air conditioning. eteria will not be returning. The design of the campus must take into account hurricanes and high winds, adjusting the As a way of guaranteeing a 21st-century learning space, stairwells for safety measures. The catwalk, however, does Principal Robert Bhoolai has been advocating for the school not. to be rebuilt since he first joined the staff six years ago.

There’ll no longer be a separation of the offices and “I am of the mantra that if you’re going to do some- guidance and they’ll be on the same floor as each other, makthing, you should do it right the first time. And finally, I ing room for more classrooms upstairs. The college and caconvinced someone to listen to me,” Bhoolai said. reer counseling, CUBE, will join that building and have its When students return to school in January, the school own lab and office. Some of Robinson’s elective programs day is going to look a little different. Five buildings on cam- will also be seeing upgrades. pus will be rebuilt: the English building, the math building, The Knights’ Tavern will have a state-of-the-art culinary the Main Office, Student Affairs and IB Office building, the cafe that also has a restaurant attached to it. The goal is to CTE building, everything below that as well as journalism. allow students to serve restaurant-style food to their fellow Other areas on campus will see renovations. classmates and the community.

Construction will take about 18 months.

“I’m most excited about seeing how it looks like how big it can be and how much space we’re going to have. I’m looking forward to maybe baking like a really big cake,” Khysharah Haynes (‘25) said. As a freshman, it’s her first year in culinary and she’ll be among the underclassmen in the program to experience the new kitchen.

As a substitute for the missing classrooms when those buildings get torn down over winter break, students can expect some of their classes moved into the portables. Approximately 40 portables will be placed on campus in the current student parking lot and the football practice field, with each portable serving as its own individual classroom. StuJournalism will be moving upstairs with an upgraded dent parking will likely be moved to a vacated Rembrandt, TV Productions facility. though discussion of vacating the street with the city is still ongoing.

Once the buildings are done, the sports facilities will be upgraded, and with it, a new football field.

There will likely be an adjustment period for students to get used to switching classes between the portables and the “I’m a huge advocate of this not being something that’s center of campus may be closed off from walking through. happening to you as far as your learning experience, but something that you’re a part of. I want students to feel a “We are a school that performs really well academically. sense of pride and ownership in their school so that they can My vision has always been to provide a space that matches proudly say that they’re a Robinson Knight,” Bhoolai said. that for y’all,” Bhoolai said.

Images shown are renderings of the new school building and courtyard area.

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Marching band makes a comeback Robinson’s marching band is back in participating in competitions.

By SALMA BOUGHDIRI, STAFF WRITER COVID-19 has affected many people, including the marching bands that use to compete against each other. Last year Robinson’s marching band cut short their performances on the field, they played songs such as jazz and didn’t attend any competitions.

This year however, their season is back to their Pre-COVID activities.

obviously longer and it has way more moves,” a lot of students that have been quarantined Revett said. “So we’ve started competing or out or sick so we are working on getting again on Saturday this month and we’re kind through those challenges.” of back to where we were before with workLast weekend was Ronald “RJ” Sharp’s ing on a longer show production.” (‘24) first competition.

At their first competition, the Seminole “It was really cool, I like how the other Sound Spectacular, the band placed first in bands were very supportive and cheering us the 3A division. They also were best in color on the whole time,” Sharp said. “I was nerguard, percussion and brass. vous because it was my first competition and This year’s drum major is optimistic I’m a sophomore so it was a pretty good exabout this show. perience but nerve racking.”

“Last year due to all the restrictions most of the bands in the county did not do a marching halftime show, we are the few that actually did,” band director Christopher Re“Last year was weird because of COVID vett said. “We did two songs we had way less and all that we had a show but we didn’t commovements because we just spent less time pete or anything it wasn’t as good as it could and we didn’t have any competitions or anyhave [been],” Noah Fingley (‘23) said. “It was thing.” just kind of like a weak show. This year I like However, this year they expect every- this one, it’s a good show lot of sets and good thing to be back to “normal.” The band is music.” competing a show called “By the Sword.” The There are some challenges for this season. show details the a knight’s quest to retrieve the sword of Camelot.

“It’s been kind of hard because we have almost two groups, freshmen and sophoThe band has four competitions culmimores, that have never really done the comnating with their MPA competition. petitive thing before so it’s trying to get them “So this year the competitions are back both to understand what competitions are and we’ve been working on our show that is and how they work,” Revett said. “We’ve had

After the first competition, the band staff were happy to be competing again.

“I would say that the team is very excited,” Starlets director Siara Espejo said. “I’m very excited and we are really happy to see other marching band programs and see the level of passion that the activity still has and generates for students and staff. People have come back and are working hard and excited to be back just like us.”

Junior Takes on The Role of Orchestra Teacher RHS student Vianca Ramirez guides her fellow students into symphony

By JULIA GUILLERMO, STAFF WRITER Walking into Open house; IB Junior, Vianca Ramirez expected to see a familiar face in the orchestra room, but instead, she walked into her fourth new orchestra teacher in three years. With last year’s orchestra teacher, Mr. Sanchez, transferring to Coleman; the orchestra was introduced to a new teacher, Ms. Stow. While they had a teacher present, Ms. Stow had little experience in orchestra, leaving Ramirez to take on the responsibilities of directing her class. While Ramirez and her peers were finely adjusting to their new teacher, Ms. Stow had put in her two-week notice, which left Ramirez in a position to teach her classmates for the remainder of the first quarter.

Ramirez has been in the orchestra since the start of her sixth-grade year. However, her interest in music actually began at a young age, as she found a passion for playing the violin. Ramirez took up the violin almost eight years ago and has continued to play for the Robinson orchestra.

“I began playing the violin because I knew I loved music from a young age and have always wanted to play a string instrument,” Ramirez said.

An IB Junior, Kristina Nguyen, is one of Ramirez’s orchestra partners, as well as friend.

Nguyen discusses how Ramirez has done a profound job at maintaining a functional Within the last three years of Ramirez classroom environment, while also balancing attending Robinson, her orchestra experience her own responsibilities. has been nothing short of normal. While, “Vianca has conducted our music several Ramirez has had more orchestra teachers times in class, and she has helped us with notes than the time she has been in high school, her or measures that we struggle with. She also passion for playing the violin has remained has been very bright and enthusiastic to start the same. However, Ramirez makes it appar- the class each day, ready to learn new pieces,” ent that it has become less and less feasible, as Nguyen said. “ I have learned from Vianca the teaching is inconsistent. that it takes a lot to be a student leader but as students, we “My experience in Robinson orchestra must has been a roller coaster of both good and bad.

I’m so grateful for everything I’ve been able to do these past 3 years, but also disappointed in the lack of communication and support that comes with our school orchestra.” said Ramirez.

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persevere and never give up because any Although Ramirez isn’t a teacher, she opportunity given to us can lead to a better has been doing an excellent job leading her and greater one.” Nguyen said. class. During an unfortunate time like this, Ramirez has continued to stay optimistic, deFor Ramirez, it is important that she spite the circumstance she has been presented and her peers continue practicing their in- with. struments, despite not having a teacher to conduct their class. Without a conductor, “Despite not having a teacher, us orchesit makes it difficult for students to remain tra students remain in high spirits. We find focused, while also working on improving ways to practice together and maintain our their musical skills, but Ramirez has made it orchestra community,” Ramirez said. a priority that she and her peers are staying IB Junior, Drew Zacharias, is anothon task. er classmate of Ramirez, who has expressed “Being in an orchestra, or any music how Ramirez has graciously led her class for elective for that matter requires individual the past two weeks. Zacharias expresses that practice in order to succeed. This has been as an instrumental group, every person has especially important for us because we don’t their own obligations they are responsible have a teacher,” Ramirez said. for, which is why Ramirez found it important to stay persistent when it came to practicing When asked about being the director of their musical pieces. the class, Ramirez was opposed to this title, and rather discussed how she has been more “Vianca has done a great job directing than willing to help assist her peers, in any and keeping our class together during the way she can. With Ramirez having more than two weeks we had no teacher. She has helped enough experience in orchestra, she has been organize the different sections together and able to benefit from keeping the classroom helping us maintain our learning until our running. new teacher came. She really displayed leadership during a time where we needed one “I wouldn’t call myself a director. I just try and I find that very inspiring for the rest of and help out the orchestra in any way I can. the orchestra,” Zacharias said.

It has been hard to play as a group without a proficient conductor or teacher to guide us, but we still make it work,” Ramirez said.

Reece Hawker: A Lifelong Swimmer Reece Hawker is a decorated swimmer on the RHS Men’s Swim Team

By VIKRAM SAMBASIVAN, STAFF WRITER Senior Reece Hawker has been swim- and sheer determination get him where he ming competitively since he was 12 years old, wants to go. It’s incredible.” but the competition has never been what’s At the Swim Team’s most recent meet at driven him. It’s always been more about the Academy of the Holy Names, Hawker won people. the Boys 50 Meter Breast event with a time “[Last] year, after I got back into swim- of 35.99 seconds and the Boys 50 Yard Free ming after taking a year and a half break from with a time of 22.22 seconds. Hawker also it, it was mainly because my sister wanted me holds the school record for the 100 meter Fly to do high school swimming with her and all event. the people on the club team and now all the Highly acclaimed by his coaches, James people on the school team, that was most of Atkins comments on Reece’s great swimming it. The racing part is fun, but it just wouldn’t ability, tenacity and willpower. be the same without all those people that I actually like seeing,” said Hawker.

“Reece swam quite well as a Freshman, got hurt, skipped his Sophomore year, and Thrilled with her brother’s return and was one of the very few swimmers that [were] continued performance, Hawker’s sister, Avable to come back and start swimming his Juery Hawker said, “Watching him race is innior year and make it all the way to state, and credible. He just gets up and does what he placed high in 100 fly and 50 free and expects needs to achieve what he wants. His strength

to do much better this year as a Senior,” said Atkins.

After high school however, Hawker’s future is undecided.

“I don’t know if I’m going to go to college or not,” Hawker said.

He plans on perhaps going to a trade school for carpeting, plumbing, or welding (something with which he has some experience) if he doesn’t attend a university. Swim will remain as more of a fun pastime.

“Don’t take it too seriously. Swimming is not really a game, but it’s the same principle, it’s supposed to be fun. If you’re not enjoying it then what’s the point?” said Hawker.

Friday Night Lights With the Knights 5 Knights explain what they do to get ready for a football game.

By ZOE THAXTON, ONLINE MANAGING EDITOR Football games are one of the most important things about high school. Those “Friday Night Lights” with the cheering crowd will leave long-lasting memories and friends for many students. Much of the student body at Robinson gets involved every week. Whether they’re in band, on the field playing or in the stands cheering, everyone has their own routine to get themselves ready.

Knight Writers asked five students the following: How do you prepare for each game? Any pregame rituals/activities?

Alex Galvin (‘23): student section “For me, football games are a really fun way to show my school spirit, so I like to go all out. I recently started wearing the knight outfit to all the home games and it’s been really fun hyping people up! Usually, I grab dinner before the game, then head straight over around 7-7:15 so I can be there early for when my friends get there.

Then when we go in, I walk through the stands, getting people hyped up for the game and continue that spirit the rest of the night.”

Julia Giarelli, a Knightmare on the Golf Course The dedicated leader for RHS’s Golf Team.

By ISABELLA GONZALEZ, STAFF WRITER Senior Julia Giarelli, captain of the golf team, has been on the team for all four years of high school, and she’s loved every minute of it. “I love playing golf. The coach is amazing, and honestly has made golf amazing for me.” She said.

She enjoys the hard work and dedication it takes to be team captain; a split leadership between her coach and herself, allowing her to call the shots. “I like how my coach runs everything by me and asks for my opinion, he trusts me and that makes me feel appreciated for all the work I’ve put into golf ” said Giarelli.

Gunnar Gibson (‘22): football punter “Before each game, I join the team for the pregame meal. Then I normally walk around and listen to my playlist with Jason Derulo, Justin Bieber and Pitbull a.k.a Mr. Worldwide to help get in the zone.

Then around 5:45, I go to the field, stretch and start to warm up until it is time for the game to begin.”

Gabby Toranzo (‘25): starlet “I eat candy before every game. I don’t really know if candy actually does this, but for me, it calms the adrenaline and anxiety of the show.”

Sara Valencia (‘24): band “I prepare for every game by putting on my uniform. We have this dumb game where we hang wooden clothespins on each other’s back, and we sometimes play games like duck duck goose, etc. to wait for call time.

It makes me feel relaxed ad ready to give knight pride and spirit.”

One of her fonder memories from golf was at Districts last year when she played her best round yet feeling as though all her practice and hard work payed off for that very moment: when she hit that perfect shot and her club made a ‘crisp’ noise. “it’s so gratifying” Giarelli said.

As an IB student, Giarelli has to balance her time between practicing consistently to get better at golf to try and make it to states but also has ‘buckets’ of homework every night. She manages by doing her homework during free time in school to be able to put her best foot forward in golf practice.

“To be honest, I end up going to bed kind of later than normal but I’ve been keeping up with everything so far” Giarelli said.

Giarelli feels very confident about this season.

She believes they will make it to regionals and play well there to hopefully make it to states. “We’ve been off to a good start so I hope we can keep that going” said Giarelli.

Green Grows in Leadership Senior member of the cross country team returns from injury.

and surreal.” Green sees himself as a sort of a role model to the other boys on the team, “I have to keep all my boys inline which is all the ground rules.” It’s been hard for him harder sometimes [because] they don’t really to get back up to his season-best where he know what they are doing so I have to bring placed 27th out of 77 runners at the Western them up and help know what to do.” He wants future teams to remember him as the Hillsborough Invitational. “cool captain”.

“Leading the boys cross country team is Roman Montero, a sophomore teamrewarding to me, it is awesome to watch as my boys improve through[out] the season,” mate of Green’s, has some things to say about Green said. Even though he loves being on Green’s leadership: “Hanks been a really the team he describes his senior year as “slow good leader. He knows what he is doing...

By KIERRA McGOLDRICK, STAFF WRITER Hank Green is a Senior on Robinson High School Cross Country team. Green was on the cross country team since his sophomore year. Now as a senior, Green has since been nominated to the captain of the team.

Green had a big setback when he got injured his junior year and is “playing catch up” to get back on track for this year. “I was out for six months so now I have to remake up

he’s good at keeping us hype and making sure we’re focused at practices.” It’s safe to say that Green is good at keeping his team in line, “[Green] encourages me to stay more determined during my runs to stay focus more and to put my all, even into training runs” Montero said.

As Montero said, the cross country team looks up to Green and his “cool captain” title fits glamorously.

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A Field Trip to Remember RHS biology teacher takes students out of the classroom, and onto the water

By SAMUEL ELLIOTT, PRINT MANAGING EDITOR Almost every year, Mrs. Oliver, Robinson High School’s HL Biology teacher, takes her students out on what she hopes will be the highlight of their school year: a field trip through the waters of Tampa Bay, putting the principles they learned in the classroom and seeing the real effects of what they’re studying.

“Any time that I can get us out and away from the classroom, and get us putting into practice the things that instead of just reading them in books.. that’s always the goal and that’s always the best way of learning. Because I know that what we learned on the trip will stick with people a lot longer than just something that they’re reading about.”

Oliver plans this trip every year, although sometimes it doesn’t come to full fruition-most years she has to rely on fundraising or community help to provide the requisite funding for the trip. While this can present a problem at times, luckily she’s found funding from a different source this year: a full grant from the Department of Defense STEM sciences grant, per the stipulation that she is required to use a supplied submersible Remotely Operated Vehicle, or ROV. This not only provided the necessary funding, but also the opportunity to look at the water from a new point of view; the bottom of the seafloor.

“We’re very lucky to have [the ROV] here at Robinson... we’re the only school in Hillsborough County that has that. The ROVs were used on the boat in those two lo-

cations to do a Benthic survey, meaning that we launched it on the bottom to go look for fish and invertebrates, and to see what kind of life we would find on the bottom.”

In addition to a Benthic survey, students also got to take part in a choice of two other scientific activities: water quality testing, in which students measured the parameters of the water, and plankton collection, where students used complex equipment to trawl for small lifeforms living in the water. Each activity had two groups of people working on it, in different locations and at different times. As such, students were able to get an accurate measurement of how the water and life in Tampa Bay changed with location, be it inside of the shipping channels or out into the bay.

lifeforms can only survive in tight parame- types [of plankton], and the abundance of ters... We also dropped a Secchi disk, which is those in different locations tells us how they’re a measurement of the turbidity of the water, doing in different spots.” helping us determine how clear the water is.”

However, seafaring excursions weren’t All this is in the effort of determining the the only part of the field trip. The trip was orconditions of the local ecology in Tampa Bay. ganized through the Florida Aquarium, who A key element of this is determining to pres- supplied the boat and crew. After returning ence of so-called “indicator species”, which is to shore, students had the opportunity to where the plankton survey came into play: explore the aquarium for a limited amount of time, getting the chance to see the large “We know that some live better in what variety of creatures exhibited there. This was we’d call cleaner water, with less nitrates and coupled with an exclusive Q&A with aquarpollution in the water, and if we’re seeing less ium staff, where students gained firsthand of those, then that’s an indication that some- knowledge of the careers of people working thing’s going on. There are many different in biological fields.

“Whenever there’s people, and there’s industry, and there’s houses and subdivisions.. we’re getting a lot of runoff into the water every time it rains, from roads, and houses and factories. I wanted to do a comparison of how the ecology is affected the closer you are to shore.”

“I split everyone into groups and everyone had a job to do.. and at each location we had a group that was doing water quality testing; they took a sample of water at site 1 and site 2, and they tested the parameters of temperature, pH, salinity, dissolved oxygen, and nitrates. We were looking to see the levels of pollution, because we know that certain

“The Q&A session was something that I’ve never done before.. I wanted to get a look at how the aquarium supports the well being of 9,000 animals there. What I was looking to do with the Q&A was to get five biologists who work in different areas around the aquarium, and get an idea of their background, connections, and their viewpoints on conservation and its importance.”

Overall, the trip provided a great opportunity for students to take their learning into the real world-- Oliver hopes that this can provide a jumping-off point for many students interested in biology as a career, as she’s seen in the past: “I can not tell you how many times I have had students come to me afterwards and say that this really opened my eyes to things I have never considered before, this really got me thinking about what career plans, even what majors I might consider in college. That is something that’s so exciting for me, because there’s nothing better than knowing that I might have sparked a new interest in understanding the importance of conservation.”

Students reflect on their past year as eLearners We reached out to some RHS students to get their opinions on the eLearning experience.

By CHARLOTTE STONE & DESIRAY HUNTER, STAFF WRITERS (seen top to bottom) Tyler Curry (‘24) Cassidy Lund (‘22) Rizwan Ahmed (‘23) Alexis Dietrich (‘23) Malachi Hill (‘22) Abrianna Lockwood (‘24)

antine all the time, and my mom works in the medical field so if I, for whatever reason, caught COVID, I didn’t want to give it to her and [then] she can’t work.

MH: “I chose eLearning last year because my dad has a underlining medical condition so it’s the safe way As we all know, eLearning was to go not an option this school year. While this may not be a big deal for many AL: “I get sick a lot so my mom didn’t of us, some students haven’t been to want me to catch COVID.” school in over a year. This can have Q: How did being online afmany positive or negative effects fect your mental health (in a good on students in a variety of ways in- or bad way)? cluding: their grades, mental health, and involvement in the school com- TC: I feel like it was a lot more stressmunity. As the first quarter ends, ful. There were less social interactions, ex-eLearners share their experiences so if I wanted to see my friends, I had with virtual school and how it com- to like schedule it outside of school. So, it was worse. pares to in school learning.

a lot of work to do, just like kids that had to be in school.”

be there in person, so you don’t get to experience that kids in school have.”

MH: “ eLearning was tuff because I didn’t get out the house much, but I still played sports, so, like, it wasn’t so much of negative [effect.]

MH: “ It was easier for sure I was finishing at like 1 [PM].”

AL: “In a bad way, I felt like I didn’t make friends... now coming back to school, I don’t know [anyone]”

AL: “ It was easier for me.”

Q: Do you think that students should have the option to eLearn this year?

Q: Was it easier or harder TC: I feel like the virtual school does a good enough job for that. I feel like than being in school? eLearning would prolong how things TC: There are pluses and cons to both. are going and it would take up a I feel like online, if the teacher was whole class period and makes things explaining something and they asked harder for teachers in a sense. you how to do it, it would be easier to like look for help or watch a video on- RA: I think unless Covid cases rise line. You had more time to like kind of significantly again, then there shouldn’t schedule your own things during lunch be an option for online. since you just got a free hour but in CL: I think eLearning should only be person it’s easier to speak with teachers an option if a student were to get quarQ: Why did you choose to be RA: Online took off some stress from and kind of get advice from them on antined because being online was very normal school, but it also had its nega- how to do stuff. online all year? difficult for both teachers and students tives with the lack of interaction.

TC: It was easier for [my parents] RA: Definitely easier than in school AD: “I think they should because I because they were working from home CL: Being online was both good and since I had more free and control over know a lot of kids whose parents are bad for my mental health. I was able due to Covid, so they didn’t want to my schedule. in the medical field and they caught to do more productive things throughtake me to school and risk getting my COVID. They don’t want to give it out the day and get in more exercise CL: I think it was harder than being niece sick either. to their parents and... if their parents because I had more time which helped in school because there were many caught COVID from a patient RA: My parents made the decision to with lowering my stress levels. Howtimes where I had to teach myself a and they can bring it home to their keep me at home. ever, I could not see my friends every topic because the material was being day which made it hard to talk about given in a way that was beneficial for kids [and then they could] spread it CL: I chose to be online all year so I through the school.” things that were on my mind. the in person learners rather than for would still have the opportunities to the e-learners MH: “I think it should be a option, see my family members and not put AD: “So I think it’s kinda like 50/50 like if you were to get... quarantined them at greater risk. cause I think most teachers felt like AD: “ I felt like it had it’s pros and [and you could] tune in with your “oh, they’re doing online” so it felt like cons...Like with journalism, it was AD: “I choose to stay online last year more work, but at the same time it felt hard to learn how to do certain things classes. [But] everyone being at school because I known going back to school is better for educational purposes.” easy because you’re at home... but it in InDesign. With science, it’s a little and it was going to be an issue with was still stressful because there was still bit different, because you can’t actually AL: “yes” having to go back home and quar-

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SPIRITweek

By ALLIE BARTON, STAFF WRITER

As homecoming reared its head on Oct 9th, Robinson showed their support during spirit week. The themes for the week were Meme Monday, Y2K Tuesday, Jerseys vs Jersey Shore Wednesday, Celebrity Thursday and Pink out Friday.

On Monday Oct 4, students showed up in trending items or their favorite meme from vine/online. With Y2K Tuesday, people dressed up as celebrities or trends from the year 2000. Jersey Wednesday, students wore their favorite sports team jersey or dressed as characters from the T.V. show, Jersey Shore. Cameras were out on Celebrity Thursday when students dressed up as their most loved celebrity! Everyone showed their support for National Breast Cancer Awareness Month by dressing in all pink for Friday.

Connor Trimble (‘23) and Jayden Fernandez (‘23) dress up as Shaggy Rogers for Meme Momday. a group of students suit up in their favourite teams’ colours for Jersey Day.

A Comic by:

Pim Kruthun

Gunner Gibson (‘22) and Lindsey Chadwick (‘22) performing as Ed Sheeran for Celebrity Day

Gunnar Gibson (‘22), Lindsey Chadwick (‘22) and Mattie last name (‘22) looking fresh for Y2K day.

NEWS BRIEF: Mask Mandates

By CHAMFAY ESTRADA & ADDISON KIM, JOURNALISM 1 STUDENTS At the Oct. 5 meeting, the Hillsborough County School Board decided that masks would no longer be mandatory.

requirement of the face-covering mandate, allowing for parents to opt-out on masks without any medical documentation required.

wear them will satisfy everyone and meet their needs. The mandate will allow the people who are still a little worried to wear a mask, and the others to kind of just do their own After considering the There topic garnered thing. I think this new manmost recent COVID cases quite the mixed reaction, date is a great compromise.” and the rate of isolations and however. quarantines of all staff and “I support this mandate Whereas, some students students over the past seven wished the mandate stayed weeks, Hillsborough Coun- because we already do so with only the medical opt-out. ty School Board members much together without our decided that the rates and masks, like eating lunch, play- “I don’t support the new amount of cases have de- ing sports, and we even see mask mandate,” Kennedi creased since the most recent some of these people outside Kleisinger (‘25) said. “I think face covering mandate. This of school on the regular,” Ar- we should all wear masks to resulted in the removal of the iana Milsaps (‘25) said. “So, prevent the spread of COVID medical exemption opt-out I think that being given the and keep everyone safe.” option to wear them or to not

Sra. Espejo dressed as Mrs. Frizzle for Celebrity Day.

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What Knights Had to Say...

“Everyone dancing and jumping together in “The drinks were nice. I would’ve wanted the mosh pit was the best part of homecom- more water, or bigger cups at least.” ing.”

- Lauren Launitktis, ‘25 - Casey Kemp, ‘23 “I thought it was really funny that how sweaty “I crowd-surfed... it was fun... everyone was everyone got in the dance circle, cause I kept yelling at me... and I was dabbing people up.” seeing my friend just come out like they were really sweaty. I also thought the venue was re- Andres deVries, ‘24 ally nice. I heard Homecoming in other plac“Some of it was a little stressful because I’m es were in their parking lots and I was like a part of SGA, so I was apart of... planning “thank god we’re not in our parking lot.” ... It [Homecoming], but once I got there, every- was a really good first Homecoming.” thing came together really nicely.”

- Ally Linsky, ‘25 - Homecoming princess Sara Gainer, ‘23 “They played a lot of good music. They took all of our suggestions really well.” (About the venue) “I liked that there was both an inside and an outside, so you could always take a break if you wanted to go outside.”

“This year’s homecoming was a great experience to say the least. If I had to describe the dance in three words I would say ‘lit, crazy, movie’. From dancing in the mosh pit to talking with friends, this homecoming has been my favourite.”

- Alexander deLise, ‘23

- Gunner Gibson, ‘22

“It was a really good way of...getting the school community back together again after...COVID and having everything being... shut down. So it was a lot of fun to have that again.”

“It was really fun to be able to have a break from school with a lot of friends. Hoco was also a great way to socialise with peopleyou don’t know too.”

- Isabel Alonso, ‘24

- Camille Sai, ‘23

“Homecoming was super fun and I think a “I appreciate the time and effort student well needed event for everyone. It showed council put into the event in the time they a lot of valuable school spirit we definitely had. The venue was great and I enjoyed my needed with everything going on.” time there. With that said, the music sucked.” - Nina Browne, ‘24 - Brooke Elrod, ‘22

“The venue and food was nice, and the DJ “Everyone was all dressed up, even the teach- did a good job on playing music that got the ers; did you see Ms. Morman?? She was eat- crowd involved. Everyone seemed to be in a good mood, and it was well organised.” ing it up with that dress... yep.”

- Pimpaka Kruthun, ‘22

- RJ Sharp, ‘24

“The part before [Homecoming] is really fun, “I had such an amazing time. I’m glad that when you go with your friends and take pic- after being in a pandemic for so long we were finally able to have some fun.” tures and you get dinner.”

- Vianca Ramirez, ‘23

- Madeline Berg, ‘24

“I thought that this is exactly what we all needed to get back together as a community.

It was nice because I felt like I wasn’t really worrying about COVID or really anything... because it was the end of the quarter. It was nice that it brought [the school] together, didn’t matter the grade, IB, Traditional, whatever it was, I felt like everyone was... happy to be together after such a longer time of being separated.”

“To be honest, Hoco was better than I expected. It was better to experience rather than just to think about it and be home so I’m glad I bought a ticket.”

- Sela Teplin, ‘23

- Grace Barrett, ‘23

- Angelo Alvarado, ‘24 “It was crazy to be able to have a Hoco after such a long time and at a really great venue too. I had a really good time with my friends and I hope they bring the same DJ next year.”

“The best part of homecoming was the mu- “It was fun and the food was good! The mosh sic. The DJ was a little smelly, like he played pit was my favorite!” it really bad... other than that, it was great.”

- Julia Barrett, ‘24 - Arason Subramanian, ‘23 “I think the event was amazing! It seemed “The mosh pit was wild” like everyone was having a great, I know that I was enjoying myself. I’m incredibly proud - Joey Trevino, ‘25 of SGA for pulling together to plan such an “It was pretty exciting. The energy was really event so quickly!” high... for all four hours of the dance. Every- - Priya Sambasivan, ‘22 one was making mosh pits in the middle.”

- Suraj Nijhawan, ‘22

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Defensive Showdown Against Middleton At Homecoming Game The Robinson knights suffered a 15-12 point loss.

By GRACE HILTON, STAFF WRITER The Knights and their division rival, The Middleton many catches. The opposing side took advantage of that Tigers, end in a close match on Friday, Oct. 1. By the end and carried their team to a win. of the game, the Tigers managed to run down the clock to Despite this loss, the Knights have managed to put up their win. The Knights lost their homecoming game 15a good defense and provide a competitive game.

12 as Middleton pulled together the game.

“We are practicing very hard. I think we are progressKnights successfully started the game, going strong ing well,” Coach Marlo said. With the next game is the in the first and second quarter and putting the first points last home game, there is one more chance for the school on the board. During the third quarter, Robinson started to defend Robinson football on home turf. to lose their grip at Middleton’s score was increasing. The home team crowd that initially had high hopes began to “I like what I saw, from what I saw in the matchup,” get nervous. team manager Vince Garibaldi said, ”...but I’m happy for The game was very engaging to watch. Robinson may where we’re going and I see something special happening have had a few touchdowns, but managed to miss just as at Spoto.”

stone

The Sword In The

A Robinson tradition continues with this year’s homecoming game, in which candidates attempt to remove “excalibur” from the “stone”, declaring themselves homecoming royalty.

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Local Halloween Events in Tampa Halloween is right around the corner- here are some safe and fun local activites.

By ALLIE BARTON, STAFF WRITER If you’re a huge fan of the hit film “Hocus Pocus,” on Oct 30 at Dairy Joy located at 3813 S Manhattan Ave, Tampa, FL 33611 you can see the Sanderson sisters and eat some spooky ice cream specials. During this event, you can meet the Sanderson sisters from 1-3 pm, there is a costume contest at 2:40 p.m. and the sisters will perform at 1:30 and 2:30!

Ave, Tampa, FL 33606, there will be a pumpkin patch ready for families to pick out their perfect pumpkin and would be a cute spot to take photos. They have a variety of pumpkins. For mini pumpkins, they are $1. For a small pumpkin, it is $5. For a Medium/ Large pumpkin, it’s for $10. For Disney fans, they have a Cinderella pumpkin for $15 and their extra-large pumpkins are for $20 apiece.

Throughout the whole month of Octo- Mondays through Thursdays it will be open ber, in Hyde Park (located at 1602 W Snow from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. and Fridays to Sun-

perfect

How to Have The Halloween Party

A guide to the best Halloween party!

By SARAI COCHRAN, SENIOR STAFF WRITER What’s Halloween without a Halloween party? Halloween is a day where you dress up as whoever you want and to eat as much candy as you want and why not have guidance on how to have the best party at home?

The most obvious thing to prepare for your Halloween party is to have a costume. You can’t throw a party and not have a costume on while everyone else is dressed up.

Don’t be afraid to go all out either, you’re the host/hostess of this party, so you have to be the spotlight.

A party isn’t a party without music. If your throwing a party where everyone is dancing then dancing music would be great. However if everyone is just hanging around talking, you could play Halloween themed music for Halloween spirit.

Having games at a party is an amazing idea. It keeps your guests interested and wanting to stay longer.

Make sure to have games that has everyone playing and games that keeps everyone busy. You could play a game called “beer pong” but instead of alcohol have it swapped out for juice or Decorations are one of the most a sparkling drink. Or you could play important things to have at your twister where everyone can participarty. You don’t want to have a crazy pate and have a good time. amount of decorations, but you want people to look at your place and want A party doesn’t have to be big to walk inside, expecting to have a with people everywhere. A party good time. Some good decorations could be just with a few friends who could be a skeleton sitting on the want to have a really nice time and front porch in a chair, spider webs, enjoy themselves. A party also doesn’t wall decorations, bats, pumpkins etc. have to to have to be engulfed in HalThere’s so many decoration options loween, the less the better but just around Halloween you’d never not make sure it’s what draws people in. have an idea of what it should look A Halloween party is a great like. yearly thing to do. You can have difAnother very important thing ferent themes for different years and to have at your Halloween party is make memories doing so. food and drinks. It could be homemade or it could be bought depending on preference. You could also have guests bring in there own dish that’s Halloween themed too. There’s things like strawberry chocolate ghosts, spider cookies, or mummy hotdogs. There’s an endless amount of ideas to do.

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days, 10:00 A.M. to 6:00 p.m.

On Oct. 30, at the South Tampa Farm from 2 p.m. to 10 p.m., you can play games, make some arts and crafts, see some farm animals, take a hayride and even take some fun photos in their photo booth. There will also be a pumpkin patch and a cakewalk. You can visit their site southtampafarm.com to see a map of the place and for more information on paying methods and parking options.

Grab your costumes and head to ZooTampa at Lowry Park, located at 1101 W Sligh Ave, Tampa, FL 33604. From 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays throughout the whole month of Oct, children of all ages can have some fun in outdoor adventures, frightening characters, creepy culinary delights, and much more! NightShadow will headline this year’s family-friendly scare-fest.

A Guide to The Best Halloween Costumes With the holida just coming up, we all need some fun and last minute costumes.

By CECILIA CHENG, STAFF WRITER Spooky season is quickly approaching. From the fall aesthetic to the mountains of candy, it comes close to the top as one of the best holidays. It doesn’t matter how old you are, people from age two to eighty dress up for this fun and festive time of the year. If you’re like me, you probably still have no idea what to dress up as for this year. Here are a few easy and quick costume ideas, because believe me, we are all going to end up needing this.

As it rises to the No. 1 show on Netflix, “Squid Game” is a thriller set in Seoul, Korea. This popular series is about a group of 456 people, all in major debt, playing children’s games under life-threatening circumstances to win a cash prize. A fun, easy and cheap costume to do with your friends, you can easily buy a tracksuit off amazon and customize it to your own liking.

Yup, you guessed it! Thanks to TikTok and Netflix, the “Twilight” movies are yet trending again. With some flare jeans, a flannel and a pair of converses, we can easily become the girl that we were jealous of back in 2010. The real question is, are you on team Edward or Jacob?

I can literally go into my closet right now and pull out a few items that fit perfectly with any character from “The Outer Banks”. Living in Florida, dressing up as these characters should be a piece of cake for all of us! So don’t put away those shorts and bathing suit yet because yes, they ARE coming in handy in the end of October.

As one of the most popular pop stars of this era, you can easily dress up as one of Taylor Swift’s many eras.

From Fearless to Folklore, your options are endless! My choice would be to dress up as Reputation Taylor though because her comeback was iconic and in my opinion, it is the quickest to put together last minute. All you need to do is to wear all black to achieve this look. You can also accessorize with a snake, the symbol of this era. If you don’t have a fake snake, don’t worry! You can make one using aluminum foil.

I think we all know who these four girls are. “Mean Girls” is a classic and iconic movie that we were all obsessed with at one time. This can, without a doubt be another super easy, but yet creative Halloween group costume. With a cute pink top, a platted skirt and heels, you can own Halloween, Regina George style.

Halloween is around the corner and it’s MidKnight Snacks: the perfect time to make some delicious treats!

These Halloween-themed chocolate truffles Halloween Truffles are so delicious and fun to make. It is also

By ANNEKA DEVRIES, STAFF WRITER

a great dessert to bring to parties and events, it’s something different than the cookies and cupcakes everyone brings.

The prep time is around 30 minutes long, the cooking time and refrigerate time are both around an hour. This recipe makes around 24 truffles so you can double, half...etc. the recipe depending on the amount you would like to make!

Ingredients: - - - - - - - -

12 oz Semi-sweet chocolate chips 1/4 cup unsalted sweet cream butter (softened) 1 cup Heavy whipping cream Halloween colored sprinkles Cookie sheet Parchment paper Small cookie scoop or spoon 9x9 glass dish Instructions:

1. Line a cookie sheet with parchment paper then set it off to the side.

2. Put chocolate and butter into a large bowl then set it off to the side.

3. In a small saucepan, heat heavy whipping cream until it starts boiling.

4. Pour whipping cream over chocolate mixture in the bowl and let it sit for two minutes.

5. Whisk until smooth.

6. Pour the mixture into the 9x9 baking pan.

7. Refrigerate for at least one hour(or until firm enough) 8. Pour Halloween sprinkles into a large bowl.

9. Using the scooper, scoop out some of the truffle mixtures and roll it into a ball.

10. Roll the truffle into the sprinkles and place the ball on the cookie sheet.

11. Repeat until all of the truffle mixtures has been used.

12. Put the truffles in a container with a tight-fitting lid and refrigerate for at least one hour (or until firm) 13. Store in refrigerator.

What’s “In-Style” This Fall?

The truffles were amazing! They are a delicious treat for any chocolate lover. The smooth texture of the chocolate goes great with sprinkles and everything was really easy to make. The truffles are a great thing to make for parties and gatherings.

Here are some must-haves in your wardrobe this autumn season!

By BRIANA GARCIA, STAFF WRITER

We’re finally in fall and wondering what to wear...or more specifically what’s in trend right now. Taking advantage of the cool weather arriving soon, we can now wear long sleeves and pants without sweating to death.

Dark, natural tones are a great way to match your outfit regardless if they do actually match. Burnt Orange, Burgundy, Navy Blue, Brown, Beige, or anything that gives a dingy but put together look. Simple colors but textures are key. Incorporate different textures like suede, velvet, and wool in your outfits.

Knitted sweaters are a great look if you don’t want to do much but still look good and comfortable.

Vintage sweaters are typically easily to find and all have their own unique qualities.

All around the school, you can see students expressing themselves in their jacket or button up shirt choice since its a lightweight option (because it is still Florida and its very hot). Cool button ups are super simple to find and add an extra touch to outfits.

Many different “vintage” or retro style of jeans are coming back in style.

The most popular this year are a high waisted 70’s wide leg, low-rise flare jeans and just the simple baggy jeans.

Time and time again have plaid pants made their comeback but now with a twist.

They’ve been seen in shorts, flares, and more!

The part many don’t typically think about is jewelry or, more specifically, accessorizing. Gold jewelry really ties together an outfit together whether its statement earrings or layered necklaces.

Gold has made its way to becoming more and more common since its a universal color and great for neutral, fall tones.

A simple designed tee is always a great to look comfy and cute. For a more upbeat look, tie up the tee and pair it with some high-rise jeans.

Even a baggy look is a great look paired with flare pants.

Our generation has become very big on shoes. While Converse sneakers can be an affordable way to spice up a look, you can really top it off with a pair of Nike Dunk’s or Jordan 4’s.

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Review: Only Murders In The Building

Hulu’s new original series is a modern spin on the classic whodunit story

By JENNA FALKOWSKI, STAFF WRITER Only Murders in the Building is a new show that is a Hulu original. It features Selena Gomez, Steve Martin, and Martin Short.

I love this show and really think everyone should give it a try!

They are three strangers who share an obsession with true crime when they end up all mixed into one. A gruesome death occurs inside their apartment building. They suspect there is more to the death and is actually a murder. They have trouble trusting each other and have went through some hardships.

However they soon realize the killer could be living amongst them and they hurry to decipher the case before it is too late.

corny and witty character, he previously had his own podcast that dealt with murders, and then Oliver (Martin Short) plus Mabel (Selena Gomez) go on to make their own podcast about the murder in their apartment building. Even now with the last two final episodes of the season are coming they still have not found out who the culprit was, despite how CLOSE they were. I love shows like this and like Criminal Minds. This show takes you through each step, just as they are finding clues and information you are right along there with them. It is kind of like a game of clue.

Although, Selena Gomez has not acted in awhile she does amazing in her role. There is an age gap between her and the other actors, but together they are amazing. Charles can’t really relate to others because he is afraid of losing them. While Oliver is creative and will do anything to pursue his dreams. Then you have Mabel who is very meticulous and relentless. They are all very different, yet they

balance each other in the most insightful way.

However, I would not give it a full 10 stars just because I have not finished the show yet. I can not be sure of how I feel until I see how it all plays out and who the murderer is.

The episodes keep ending with an interesting twist and cliffhanger that keeps you wanting to keep watching the show. Another aspect is there is hints of comedy. I do recommend watching it!

a&e There are a total of 10 episodes and the first episode released just this past August.

Currently there is a rating of 8.3/10 and I would agree with that rating.

I just finished watching episode 8 and this show definitely keeps me on the edge of my seat. Charles (Steve Martin) is a very

PREVIEW: Broadway Knights

Local Music Review: The Stick Figures’ Archaeology

Theater performs for an in-person audience in their annual variety show

By SAMUEL ELLIOTT, PRINT MANAGING EDITOR

By JADYN GRAYES, STAFF WRITER

The inaugural release of Archaeology on Pittsburgh, PA label Floating Mill Records was probably the most important thing to happen to the contemporary Tampa post-punk scene since the Family Germs played their groundbreaking debut show in St. Petersburg last May.

Robinson’s troupe #2660 has hosted “Broadway Knights” for seven years, and the eighth annual production will be held October 20th and 21st at 7pm in the auditorium.

But to put things in terms people actually understand, this album is a compilation of works by the little known Tampa band The Stick Figures, whose shortlived late 70’s existence merely resulted in a single self-titled EP released during their career.

For a long time this was the only piece of music ever put out by the band-- that is, until now.

Asked About You, albeit with a more frenetic tempo.

This is best exemplified with the rather succinct “Ellis Otivator Dub”, which goes heavy on the effects and oddities to provide a fitting endcap to the more (relatively) conventional works prior to it.

However, the only gripe I have about the record is that some of the tracks are a little out of place-- specifically the last one, a remix of the song mentioned above. The modern production quality has a jarring transitional effect from the more raw mixes before it, causing it to seem a little ‘tacked-on’.

Nevertheless, it’s insignificant Collecting the four tracks compared to the amazing works from their eponymous EP displayed prior to it. alongside unreleased recordings, The album has recieved the live tracks, and even a remix, Arfull treatment in terms of physchaeology is surely the ultimate ical releases as well, including expression possible from a band vinyl, cd, and cassette.

A link so unlauded in their lifetime. to the Bandcamp page can be The music itself is difficult found through the QR code beto pin down-- the arty style and low. use of violin lends somewhat to the inevitable Velvet Underground comparison, however there is an antsy, jagged edge to the Figures’ music that requires a mention of punk to really explain. As for me personally, the persistence of strong melody through the noise and experimentation reminds me of bands like Quickspace and Everyone

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most excited about the new people we have, especially our crew who I know is going to do amazing things this year with the lights, sounds, backgrounds and costumes,” said Ea Leonard (‘22), the traditional troupe This year will be a comeback Vice President. for troupe #2660. Last year, their show was moved online last minute.

Since their show last year was “Well, mostly I’m just so excited that cut short in some aspects, the troupe we get to perform live in front of a is eager to showcase all of the talents real audience again. Last year it was that the members have. “Broadway so disheartening for the troupe hav- Knights, a variety show, which is going to move performances to zoom ing to happen this month, will have last minute,” says Ava LeClair (‘23), such amazing talent in the show so I the IB troupe Vice President. This think people should definitely check was new to everyone, and many peo- it out!” Leonard said, expressing her ple felt it took away from the overall excitement for this year’s show. experience of seeing a live show.

Aside from Broadway Knights, However, this year the show troupe #2660 also hopes to have will be in person and the troupe has more upcoming shows throughout big plans. Because it will be held in the year. “I’m also excited to do Chiperson, there is also expected to be cago in the Spring because that will more people to see all the talent that be fun,” Leonard said. We are excitthe crew has to offer. There are many ed to see all of the productions that new members of the crew that show troupe #2660 has in store for us this big potential and promise. “ I’m year.

The SAT does not accurately determine how smart someone is.

OPINION

By LINDSEY CHADWICK, STAFF WRITER The College Board has created a test that almost every high schooler takes: the SAT. It has reading, grammar, and math. Seems simple, right? We have been taking reading and math classes our whole life. This should be a breeze. Well, not really.

First of all, there is a lot of geometry, trigonometry, and algebra being tested. I know I am not the only one who hasn’t taken geometry since 8th grade and finished algebra 2 freshman year. This is a struggle because now I am having to remember all different topics from these subjects. I have to take a long test on them that basically decides whether I get into college or not. That doesn’t make sense. I can barely remember what I ate for breakfast this morning, how am I going to remember math from three to four years ago?

Your solution to my problem might be to get a tutor. Well, that is exactly what I did, but not everyone is fortunate enough to be able to afford a couple of thousand dollar tutor. Some people can’t even afford to take the SAT more than once. They can only afford to take the free one given at school. They get one chance.

They get one chance to get a good score so they can get into college.

That should not be a significant factor in how you get into college.

you’re supposed to get the correct answer? I just do not see how the SAT represents how smart you are and I believe it should not influence college’s decisions.

I understand the SAT is supposed to be somewhat of a baseline to show students’ readiness for college.

They want to see students’ different abilities on reading comprehension and problem solving, but College Board makes the questions extremely wordy. They have too much fluff in their questions and you can barely figure out what they are trying to say. It takes you like half of the time you have on the question trying to figure out what they are asking you.

Then, you barely have enough time to think through the answer choices.

You can’t rush through the sections because then you aren’t actually comprehending the passage or questions and get even more wrong.

All in all, this three-hour-long enduring test does not measure your intelligence. It measures more on your ability to work under a time clock and how good your guessing game is. My recommendation is to cancel the SAT. Scratch it all together. Colleges look at our scores to accept or deny us but it isn’t accurate, so it needs to go.

Additionally, some people aren’t good at taking tests. Personally, I am not. I do not do good under time pressure. I am smart and I will figure out the right answer but I need to be able to take my time to figure it out.

On the SAT you have anywhere from 48 to 87 seconds per question (depending on what section you’re in).

And in that short amount of time,

this paper was produced by some combination of efforts from the following individuals: Editor-in-Chief: Juno Le / Online Editor: Zoe Thaxton / Print Managing Editor: Samuel Elliott / Publications Advisor: Nancy Oben Staff: Pim Kruthun / Sarai Cochran / Ethan Adair / Lindsey Chadwick / Julia Guillermo / Ingalls Witte / JC Thaxton / Allie Barton / Briana Garcia / Vikram Sambasivan / Grace Hilton / Jadyn Grayes / Cecilia Cheng / Charlotte Stone / Salma Boughdiri / Araya Stearns / Anneka deVries / Isabella Gonzalez / Kierra McGoldrick / Nicolas Diaz / Jenna Falkowski / Christian Dingle / Zoey Gonzalez / Kayla Rosa / Rudy Jordan / Desiray Hunter / Whittaley Bowden / Faith Rowland 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.

Life, Liberty, and The Pursuit of COVID-19 Give me liberty or give me death!

By INGALLS WITTE, STAFF WRITER On December 31st, 2019, the first case of COVID-19 was reported in Wuhan China. Exactly a month later the World Health Organization International Health Regulation Emergency Committee declared the coronavirus outbreak a Public Health Emergency of International Concern. By March 11th, 2020 the World Health Organization stated COVID-19 as a pandemic. In April of 2020, with 23,036 dead, the United States became the global leader of reported COVID-19 deaths, no thanks to our slow reaction, inadequate policies, and inability as a nation to follow simple mandates.

A little over a year following the start of the pandemic, more than 42 million cases have been reported in the United States and with hospital admissions averaging around 10 thousand a week, the coronavirus doesn’t seem to be going away anytime soon.

Since the start, right-winged outrage over wearing masks and social distancing rang loud and proud throughout our country and even Capitol Hill. Former presi-

dent Donald Trump spent his last months in office downplaying the severity of the virus, mocking mask wearing and going so far as to suggest injecting disinfectants such as bleach. Trump’s negligent actions not only resulted in thousands of Americans sick, but thousands dead as well.

The spread of “fake news” this past year seems to have spread faster than the virus itself, with popular right-wing network Fox News contributing greatly. Early on, coverage surrounding the coronavirus was downplayed, as Fox New personalities pushed the notion that COVID-19 was no worse than the flu. As the pandemic progressed, even more outrageous claims were spread. Fox anchor Tucker Carlson stated Dr. Anthony Fauci created COVID-19, that the vaccine didn’t work and even likened children wearing masks to child abuse.

While these over the top notions may be enough to strike the average person as absurd, millions still tune into Fox News every day and, ironically enough, their most popular age demographic are those most susceptible to COVID-19.

Due to the rampant misinformation delivered by the right, it’s no wonder no one wants to mask up or get vaxxed. When you’re placed in an echo chamber of people repeating the wrong thing, sooner or later you’ll begin to believe it’s right. A vast majority of Americans believe it’s within their personal liberties to refuse. However when donning a mask or getting a shot aids in saving other’s lives-or your own-the line between your personal liberty and being a empathetic human being tend to blur.

Since the implementation of COVID-19 restrictions and mandates, protests in defiance have cropped up across the country.

The party of “facts over feelings” choosing to completely disregard the WHO and CDC in favor of Facebook posts and Fox News. Despite their confidence in falsehoods of COVID-19 and its legitimacy, figureheads of right-winged groups and even local, state and federal officials have died due to virus.

ing our own Hillsborough County.

Yet the measures put in place to protect children and teachers have sparked outrage, as self-proclaimed “patriots” flock to school board meetings to scream baseless claims about vaccines and masks. In Vail, Arizona one woman stated “It’s my constitutional right to be as mean as I want to you guys.” Protesters at these meetings have harassed officials relentlessly, often resulting in violence and said patriots being escorted to a police car. The abhorrent lack of respect for school board officials over something as trivial as

a piece of cloth over your face illustrates the iron will of the anti-maskers across the country and, consequently, how long this pandemic will truly last.

As anti-maskers continue in their valiant efforts against the face covering that poses such a threat to their livelihood, we can still enact change: continue to wear your mask, get vaxxed if you haven’t, and stay vigilant against misinformation by getting you facts from reliable sources, such as the CDC website.

Together, we can end this pandemic for good.

The start of this school year has kicked off with mask mandates mandates across the nation, includ-

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Lifting off with...

It’s not often that a former Robinson student becomes JV coach.

By GRACE HILTON, STAFF WRITER It’s said that when one door closes, another one swings open.

Sometimes your foot gets caught in the door when it shuts. This is the case for Vince Garibaldi as his injury lead him to do what he loves: coaching.

Coach Bird

“I don’t really care about any goals Sayers commented, “Its very for myself, the main point is just weird, but he was my classmate seeing this team win. I think that’s first. So it’s weirder seeing him as the greatest feeling of all.” a coach.

For all Coach Bird contribNo matter what you call utes, he has gained a fair share of him (Coach Bird, Vincent, Vince supporters on the team.

Vibes), Garibaldi is unmistakably a Meet “Coach Bird” (who got huge part of the school and plays a “He is amazing and put a lot large influence on Robinson foothis name for being an Eagles fan), a student coach for the JV football of work into our team.” Malik Wil- ball. When it comes to finding a team. Bird was a Lineman on the liams (‘25) said. coach, sometimes it helps to have team when he got hurt and had to Logan Sayers (‘24) adds sim- someone that is sitting directly in quit. He still wanted to support ilar praises, “He’s doing good, do- your shoes. Williams mentions, the team so he reached out to help. ing his part, and his very well liked “He makes the team feel good Coach Marlo of the Varsity foot- among the players and staff.” about ourselves.” When you look ball team offered him a position at the people in authority of you, He has noticed a clear dif- a lot of the time we may wish that as assistant coach. Hence, Vince became the first student coach of ference in the classroom from that person knew what it was like when he wasn’t a coach yet. “I do to be one of us. It’s time to give our Robinson. get treated a little differently but youth more credit.

While you will definitely see there’s still a sign of respect,” Bird him on the field during varsity said, “They all recognize me as or While not a captain, RHS volleyball player Maddie Hill games, he spends a fair amount think that I’m an actual coach, and still contributes in many ways. of time with the JV team. As their that’s really cool.” But from 8:30 to

By JC THAXTON, STAFF WRITER coach, he works to bring up the 3:30, Vince is a friend of many of team, create stars, and take each the teammates. player to a district championship.

Seniors are almost au- may not make perfect, but it and communicating on how tomatically seen as leaders definitely makes you better the connection between her from their underclassmen with a lot of it. and her teammates can be teammates, regardless if better. Whenever she can see This senior season has a fellow teammate in their they hold captain positions.

They understand the game had a rough starting to it head, she tries to help them and have experience to help. but the team has managed. get out of it and continues Senior Maddie Hill exem- Every team should be ver- to encourage them.” satile, but for some teams it plifies this statement. takes longer than others and Though the may not be Hill came onto this it can be weird right off the a captain, she sure does help team with three years expe- bat. “This season has been this team out a lot whether rience prior to high school. different. Our setter had a its on the court with serving,

By JUNO LE, EDITOR-IN-CHIEF She started when she was 11 season ending injury but or just helping her teamyears old and came onto this we’re all trying to adjust,” mates out. The season is still As a big fan of zodiacs, I’m kind of superstitious when it comes to the Lunar calendar team as a beast; she made Hill said. not over and Hill has a lot zodiac signs. This year is the year of the ox, and I immediately saw it as a time of hard work varsity as a freshman with coming for her. in rebuilding.

Setter Madison Wilthe skills to offer better opliams (‘23) has been on the portunities for the team.

The Knight Writers has acquired a rather large staff this year and for that I am grateful. sideline because of her seaI’d like to thank the staff and Ms. Oben for putting up with my perfectionism. No matter Hill is a key player on son ending injury but still how many times I say I’m going to quit, you guys keep me going. A lot of this year’s first issue the court: a middle. She may is in the game mentally. She talks about the student effort in rebuilding and strengthening the spirit of Robinson. It’s been not be the main setter or said, “Maddie is a great and a crazy tough two years but we keep pushing through regardless. libero but the middle blocks key player for our team. Her and hits hard to make it dif- energy and excitement to This time of the year may just be my favorite. There’s always so much going on around ficult for the other team. As play is reflected when she school, regardless of what obstacles come our way. I’d say the best thing about RHS is our a volleyball player one must plays and helps encourage diligence and flexibility. We keep pushing through every storm that hits us and we do it tobe able to adjust fast and others to be excited. She gether. While it may not get any easier, we’ll keep working with what we got. have quick reaction time for never fails to make people locating and getting the ball laugh and have fun in pracup and over the net, which tice and while playing.” she does phenomenally.

Another key thing in “My strengths as a player are volleyball is to have everybeing able to adjust whenevone’s back and a great way to er and serving,” Hill said. do that is to communicate Hill’s height helps her on and off the court. with blocking and getting Williams continued, up for power when serving.

“Maddie communicate[s] a She continued, “We practice lot with her teammates on it a lot so I feel like I have the court, being encouraging to be good at it.” Practice

A Leader from Within

EDITOR’S LETTER

Juno Le, Editor-In-Chief

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Zoe Thaxton, Online Managing Editor

Samuel Elliott, Print Managing Editor