SNN June 2011 by JourneysIn Journalism

Lakewood High School - June 1, 2011

snntoday.snn.pcsb.org

Spartan News Network

GAVIN ZITMAN | SNN

Science teacher James Kostka and students collect samples in the water during an AMSET field trip to clean up Mirror Lake in downtown St. Petersburg.

AMSET making Mirror Lake shine ... page 4

Some seniors wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t walk at graduation .. page 3 Budget cuts may mean job cuts ... page 3

the hub

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A word from

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By TAYLOR LAPUMA SNN Editor in Chief

A lot happened this school year and there were many ups and downs. After the retirement of principal Dennis Duda and a poor grade given to our school as a whole, this year started off rough. We were under the watchful eye of the state; we got a new principal, new rules, procedures and even new carpet. Administration cracked down on dancing at homecoming and shots were fired just off school property at a football game. Positive things happened as well, though. The girls’ basketball team won the state championship and we eventually raised our school grade to a C. (See page 13 for more highs and lows of this year). At SNN we were hit hard with many important stories, many that required some digging. I’m proud to say we stayed on top of the game, covering everything from head-to-toe, a-to-z. I’m glad I had the opportunity to be the editor in chief of SNN during this newsworthy year, and for the first time in my four years at Lakewood, I actually feel proud to be a Spartan. This year has been the best year of my life, and it flew by so fast – almost too fast. As most of the SNN editors are graduating and going on to college, we are passing down our roles to students who we’ve seen excel in the newsroom. We’re sure to leave you all in good hands. As we continue to grow as a paper, the editors we have chosen for next year are: Editor-in-Chief – Sofia Damos Managing Editor – Julia Pohlmann Design/Copy Chief – Chris Deister Photo Editors - Maddie Glassman and Katie Atkisson Entertainment Editor – Symone Brown Opinion Editor – AJ Valdes Sports Editors – Jalon Edwards and Elijah Flewellen Chief Web Editor – Molinseai Elcius Assistant web editor - Jessica Thornton Web Technician - Lauren Hastings I can’t believe this is already the last issue of SNN. To all seniors, good luck in college or whichever path you choose to take. I know we’ll all go far. Congrats Lakewood High class of 2011. We finally did it.

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NATE PLAINES | SNN

Studying hard: Senior Chris Burney reads out of his notebook in C-wing on May 3. For more pictures from around campus, check out snntoday.snn.pcsb.org and click on multimedia.

Survey says ... students do cheat By PAUL BAGARIC SNN Staff Writer

What do you do when your teacher assigns homework? If SNN’s latest survey is any indication, you may copy someone else’s homework. SNN surveyed about 300 Lakewood students earlier this semester and found that the majority of students say they have cheated at some point in school. Here are some of the findings: • About 65 percent of freshmen say they cheat, while about 80 percent of seniors say they cheat. • Homework and classwork are the most popular answers for “What do you cheat on?” Likewise, “Copying other students” was the most popular answer for “How do you cheat?” • About 40 percent of students said they cheat weekly while 20 percent of students said they cheat daily. For more survey results please go to snntoday.snn.pcsb.org.

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Budget cuts leave wounds By KAYLA GARCIA SNN Staff Writer

As a result of state budget cuts, 23 teachers at Lakewood are not having their contracts renewed for next school year. Though they all have a chance of being rehired, some teachers’ chances are slimmer than others. The cuts mean the county will receive about $600 per student, said principal Bob Vicari. To help cover this shortfall, Pinellas County decided to lay off first- and secondyear teachers. The economy is bad and enrollment is dropping. With fewer students entering the public school system every year because of a rise in online, private and home schooling, not every teacher will earn their spot back, said Vicari. “Out of 23 teachers, I think I’m going to have 20 of them employed next year. Three of them I am anticipating (may not be here),” said Vicari. Some teachers believe performance should be the deciding factor in their employment rather than experience, including teacher Rani Wright. Wright is a reading teacher in her second year. When she was given the news that she may not be coming back, she said she felt underappreciated because it didn’t matter how hard she worked. Wright and Maureen Kearney, a firstyear reading teacher, are concerned about their students and plans for next year. Part of reading includes building relationships with their students, they said. “We were cruising along looking forward to next year, and the wind was taken right out of our sails,” said Kearney. “We were building our department, becoming stronger and stronger.” “Even though students know they aren’t going to have me next year, they’re dis-

traught,” said Wright. Some students say they agree with the teachers: performance, rather than years of service, should come first. “I feel like it’s unfair because some teachers are good teachers and don’t deserve to be laid off just because they’ve only been teaching here a year or two,” said junior Keyana Hawthorne. Junior Bria Fuller said some of the older teachers don’t perform as well as newer ones. “Those are the teachers that need to go,” said Fuller. Even with a chance of being reinstated Wright feels uneasy about her job security. “There’s nothing consistent or concrete,” said Wright. Danielle Johnson, guidance counselor agrees. “I mean, you have some hope that it all works out, but at the same time, it is nerve wracking when you have a family to take care of,” she said. Johnson said she thinks Vicari has beensupportive the whole way, and first-year Spanish teacher Alexander Seoane agrees. “Mr. Vicari really is honestly trying his best to get all first- and second-year teachers back, and I’m very grateful for that,” said Seoane. Haley Forsyth has been teaching geography and history for a year and a half. She was devastated after finding out that she was one of the teachers to be laid off. “Teaching means everything to me; it’s the only career I ever wanted to do,” she said. “Every day I feel like I’m doing something that’s important.” - AJ Valdes and Lauren Hastings contributed to this story. To watch a multimedia report on budget cuts, go to snntoday.snn. pcsb.org.

KASEY DILLARD | SNN

State administrators walk from portable nine discussing their opinions on what they observed in the class they assessed on May 4.

The ‘state’ of things at LHS By SHERRISH GAINES SNN Staff Writer

Students should expect to see familiar faces from the Department of Education back on Spartan grounds next year. The school will still be under state observation for two more years because of grant money it received during the 2010-11 school year. Lakewood High School, classified as a “D” school, was under state supervision for the past school year. The objective of the state’s presence was to work with teachers and staff to improve student performance. “They’re very complimentary,” said principal Bob Vicari. “They come in and make some good suggestions and we’ve done everything they’ve suggested.” Throughout the school year, staff members from the Florida Department of Education worked with Lakewood staff to improve lesson plans and create a better environment for both teachers and students. “I think it went fairly well,” said senior John Nguyen. “It got easier and more comfortable as the year went on.” The last state walkthrough was May 4. Attendance for teachers increased on state walkthrough days, according to assistant principal Peter Oberg. “It’s that hidden message that we’re sending, that the staff is sending,” said Oberg. Vicari says that after the DOE representatives spent time at the school, they understood that sometimes “it’s not because people aren’t doing their jobs, it’s because of life circumstances.” Assistant principal Susan Alvaro shared a series of compliments given by DOE staff members sent in an email. “It’s obvious that the staff works hard to develop and maintain positive relationships with the students,” wrote one observer. Another complimented that “the infrastructure that has been established this year supports [the] highest student achievement.”

It’s graduation time! (But not for everyone)

By TRENIECE GREEN SNN Staff Writers

Senior year is the time of your life. It’s the end of high school but also the start of a new chapter: your first year of college. And the only way to get there is to walk across the stage and receive your high school diploma, but there is an obstacle: the FCAT. This month 56 seniors received a letter telling them that they have not passed the FCAT and they are at a risk of not walking, principal Bob Vicari said. Specifically, 45 seniors failed the reading and 11 failed the

math, he said. Seniors found out the news on May 12. “It was a massacre. It was like people had died and their confidence toward school was gone,” said senior Byron Boykins, who passed the FCAT in his junior year, but had several friends this year who weren’t so lucky. “It was the worst day ever. It was sickening.” Senior Jonathan Dupree is one who didn’t pass the FCAT and is only receiving his certificate of completion. He says that

he was called down to his guidance counselor’s office on the day the scores came out, and they told him the news. “I was mad,” Dupree said. However, he said he’s not going to let this slow him down and will retake the test this summer. In the meantime, he will continue running his car-washing business. Some teachers were saddened, also. “I think it’s unfortunate that in this state you take a test that doesn’t test you on what it’s supposed to and is preventing

kids from graduating,” said English teacher LaTonya Hill. Students who didn’t pass the FCAT can substitute the ACT for it if they scored an 18 in reading and a 15 in math or higher. Also, Vicari said, those students who didn’t pass the FCAT can still walk on graduation day if all of their other requirements are met. The first retake for the FCAT will be at the end of June.

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AMSET shining up Mirror Lake By GAVIN ZITMAN and QUAN JONES SNN Staff Writers

As most students at Lakewood High School were working indoors, students in the Academy of Marine Science and Environmental Technology spent their day submerged to their necks collecting data that they hope will help change Mirror Lake. AMSET is continuing its efforts to help make the lake near downtown St. Petersburg more eco-friendly with their recent trip. A total of 50 students and two teachers visited the lake on May 13 with the goal of helping the environment and collecting useful data. AMSET has been working at the lake for more than three years, but for the first time Lakewood’s Intro to Environmental Tech students went with AMSET’s seniors to work on the lake. “It’s the first real hands-on project for the freshmen,” said AMSET coordinator James Kostka. Mirror Lake was once a source of drinking water for all of St. Petersburg, but today it is infamous for its homeless population and large amounts of litter. The mission has been to clean up Mirror Lake, but high amounts of phosphates are making it difficult. To help, Kostka says they plan on launching “artificial islands,” about 5 feet by 5 feet in size, to help balance the environment. The islands will be made of plastic and will have plants growing on them. “The lake has too many phosphates… and plants (in the islands) absorb the phosphates,” said Kostka. The islands will also provide the lake’s wildlife with adequate nesting areas. In addition to planning the launch of the islands, students went to the lake to collect data that in the future will help AMSET understand the lake. Students collected data in groups, and walked around the lake changing their positions for hours. The method of collecting data differed among the students. Some fished, while others collected water samples and observed the birds. “If we know what kind of birds are out here, we know what they eat,” said freshman Bryce Raeford. The data may also be put on plaques that would line a proposed boardwalk and give visitors information about the lake’s ecology. “It will help map out the area,” said freshman Michelle Naue.

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Photos by AUSTIN DELGADO | Special to SNN

James Kostka and his students show what they have found at the bottom of Mirror Lake during a clean-up field trip to the downtown park. For more images from this event, go to snntoday.snn.pcsb.org and click on multimedia.

Kostka measures the width of a tree on the bank of Mirror Lake.

Kostka stands with a group of his students and explains how to measure the width and height of the trees at Mirror Lake.

But for most students it was about “helping the environment,” said senior Maria Martinez. As the lake clean-up efforts continue, some are worried about the future prospects of the project in light of recent grant cuts. “I’m concerned there may not be enough funds,” said neighborhood coordinator Shirley O’Sullivan who is working

with Kostka on the lake. The money for the artificial islands was guaranteed by the Florida Learn and Serve Grant, but the cuts have eliminated servicelearning projects all over the country. “We will have to find money from other sources to pay for materials,” said Kostka “but more importantly (we will have to find money for) transportation.”

“It’s the first real, hands-on project for the freshmen.” - AMSET Coordinator James Kostka

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features

Gospel choir: how sweet their sound By JADELIA JACKSON and BRIAN BARFIELD SNN Staff Writers

Julian Anderson was a student at Lakewood High School in the early 1990s and was instrumental in starting a gospel choir on campus. After he graduated in 1992, however, the Lakewood Gospel Choir dissolved. Anderson, an exceptional student education teacher, has returned to Lakewood where he has had the opportunity to continue something that was started more than 20 years ago. Anderson, with the help of band director/music teacher Michael Kernoodle, started the second generation of Lakewood’s gospel choir on March 16. The band is welcoming anyone who is interested in joining. Anderson’s experience as a music minister for 17 years is what encouraged him to start the gospel choir. “The goal is that the Lakewood ... Gospel Choir will continue to grow to over 100 active participants consisting of singers and musicians,” Anderson said. The choir will give Lakewood students

“an outlet where they can express their praise through music and song,” he said. Senior Kendra Anderson joined the gospel choir as soon as it started. She wanted to join because she has always been in a church choir until she moved here to St. Petersburg where she has no home church. “Having a school choir is a perfect opportunity,” she said. She sings soprano in the choir and plays the clarinet in the band. Senior Vanessa Myrthil joined the gospel choir because she loves to sing and she is a religious person. She also joined because her church does not have a gospel choir. The Lakewood Gospel Choir will perform at various events, both on and off campus, including local churches and choir competitions. The choir rehearses on Tuesdays after school in the band room or auditorium. Students who missed the first meetings can still join by picking up an application from guidance secretary Viola Bates.

MOLINSEAI ELCIUS | SNN

The Lakewood Gospel Choir and director Julian Anderson pose for a photo at their last meeting of the year.

A masterful musician By ALEX BRACKX and JACOB PHILLIPS SNN Staff Writers

Junior Nicholas Hughes is a mildmannered student by day. But once he gets behind the piano, magic happens. Hughes has been playing piano, guitar and singing since he was 12. Now he composes music for the Lakewood Drama Club. He arranged the music for the recent production of Sleeping Beauty and last year’s production of Dracula. “Nick is an outstanding musician who composes original masterpieces,” said friend and fellow musician Henry Ngo. “He’s easy to play with.” Hughes finds inspiration in the music of Ben Folds, the front man for the Ben Folds Five, an alternative piano-rock band from Winston-Salem, N.C. Hughes wanted to play everything that Folds played, and he has spent countless hours studying Folds’ style. Hughes has played local shows, but he mostly does open-mic nights at various restaurants and cafes around town. He recently found enough money to start a makeshift recording studio in his house. The studio – his bedroom – consists of two microphones with an audio box. He uses one microphone to capture the low

notes and the other one to capture the high notes on his piano. Hughes said that he started playing the piano because he thought it was a cool thing to learn. As he took lessons and got better his piano playing turned into a passion. “There’s so much meaning in (my) music, ” said Hughes. “I just want to get (my music) into a higher regard, I guess.” Drama teacher Colleen Coughenour already thinks Hughes is an exceptional musician. “I am blown away by Nick’s ability to watch a scene onstage and capture the mood in his compositions and performance,” Coughenour said.“From my observation of audience reaction, I’m not the only one who feels that way.” Hughes is the only student to ever compose music for Drama Club performances. He has been doing it for two years. “I’m thrilled that Nick has shared his exceptional talent with the Drama Club. I believe he will go on to compose some incredible music,” Coughenour said. Hughes says he starts a composition by first choosing chords and expanding on

JACOB PHILLIPS | SNN

Junior Nicholas Hughes plays the piano in the Lakewood auditorium. For a video about Hughes, check out snntoday.snn.pcsb.org and click on multimedia. them. He then adds the melody and lyrics. Hughes, who wants to compose music as a career, does not know where he wants to go to college.

“After you play for a while, you just know what you want to do,” Hughes said.

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Back when I was in high school ... By JALON EDWARDS and DRE WALKER SNN Staff Writers

Like many students these days, Lakewood’s driver education teacher Rudy Coffin played sports when he was in high school. Coffin, now 60, played one year of football, ran one year of track and played four years of baseball Coffin as a junior and basketball. But high school back in Coffin’s time was very different than it is now – mainly because of segregation in the south. Until 1966, the school Coffin attended, Dunnellon High School, was an all-white school. That year it was desegregated, which means students of all races could go to the same school. “But everybody got along,” said Coffin, who has been a teacher for 28 years – five years at Lakewood and 23 years at Clearwater High School. While at Clearwater, Coffin was the boys head basketball coach for 17 years and the assistant coach for four years. He also was the head coach of boys basketball at Tallahassee Lincoln High School.

LEON TOMLINSON | SNN

Rudy Coffin instructs driver’s ed class in the bus circle at Lakewood High on May 16. Behavior issues were also different. Gas was 25 cents, a hamburger at McIn fact, students could not get suspended. Donald’s was 12 cents, cheeseburgers were “If you messed up in school, then you got 15 cents, Coke was 10 cents and gum was paddled by your teacher,” said Coffin. a penny.

On days that Coffin was not in school he and his friends would go snorkeling, swimming and do anything they could do to have fun. The National Football League wasn’t the only professional football league. Instead, it shared the stage with the American Football League until they merged into the NFL in 1970. Soon after, Coffin graduated from Florida State University in 1974 and in 1979, he got his masters degree. Students didn’t have cell phones: instead, they used the phones in telephone booths, Coffin said. Here are some other things, according to Coffin, that were different: - Very few people came from single-parent households. - Houses had only one TV in them. - There were only three channels on TV: ABC, CBS, and NBC. - Few people used profanity in public. - School lunches actually tasted good. - Typewriters were manual – there were no computers. - Most families had only one car. - Kids had record players, not iPods.

For teachers, when school ends work doesn’t By BRIANNA JOHNSON and BASIL ROLLE SNN Staff Writers

A special thanks to

Carrabba’s Italian Grill, 1951 Fourth St. N., St. Petersburg, for making the SNN Journalism Banquet exceptional!

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Packed, loud hallways, tons of paper work. Fresh air, sunshine. Two completely different environments. Lakewood High School’s assistant principal and athletic director Deb Fabrizio works in both worlds. Fabrizio owns a painting company with her husband that they started 20 years ago. It all began when Fabrizio’s husband – who is now a teacher at St. Petersburg High School - was working as a painter and all of his coworkers quit. When this happened she began to help her husband. Seeing that they are both School Board employees, they always needed extra income. They decided to use painting to help bring in the income. She said she enjoys the summer work because, “I like to see a beginning and end product.” Fabrizio and her husband only paint the houses of School Board employees. All of her clients find her “by word of mouth,” she said. They usually do about six houses

a summer. Fabrizio said she is nearly booked for the summer, but has two slots left to fill. *** From an educator’s salary to a bartender’s salary. Christopher Otto, Lakewood High School’s testing coordinator, receives both. Otto picked up bartending seven years ago to make extra money. “It’s nice to be busy over the summer and the money is extra helpful,” said Otto. Otto started out working as a barback at 18 years old. He now works the tiki bar at Crabby Bills on St. Pete Beach. During the summer, he makes about $150-$250 a night. Otto also does private weddings. Last year, Otto started weddings with a friend but now does them on his own. *** Whether it is coaching the girls’ basketball team at Lakewood or helping out at Carlton Manor, a group home for boys ages 6-17, reading teacher Necole Tunsil says

she enjoys giving back to the community. Tunsil used to coach basketball at Eckerd College alongside Floyd Watkins. Watkins was already helping out at Carlton Manor but asked Tunsil to bring a “motherly touch” to the group home. She agreed and also brought reading teacher and assistant basketball coach Anthony Lawrence into it. This June, Tunsil will have been working there for a full year. She says that she plans on working there as long as possible. “It feels great to make these kids feel as if they have some sort of family in this world,” Tunsil said. But the most difficult part she said was it’s “easy to get attached and it’s difficult to let them go.” Overall, the reason for teacher take summer jobs is because they need more than the teacher’s salary.

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Juniors rising to the top

By TA’KEYA MONTGOMERY and ARIANNA CHEVER SNN Staff Writers

As the year comes to an end, Lakewood High School juniors prepare to face the rewards and challenges of their last year in high school. All through high school freshmen, sophomores and juniors anticipate the day they will finally be “on top”. “It seems like just yesterday I was a freshmen,” says junior Justin Pierre. Some juniors feel as though their high school career has flown past them, but others don’t feel quite the same. “Certain years went by slower, but this year went by fast. I hope next year doesn’t go by as fast,” says junior Jessica LaRue. Up-and-coming seniors Duquincesia LaRue Jackson and Jazmyne Kennedy said they are looking forward to senior privileges and activities and getting closer to a college education. Although there are many rewards to being a senior many juniors worry about challenges they may face. For Jackson, that means “staying focused and

attending school on a regular basis.” Some say one of the biggest challenges of becoming a senior is catching “senioritis.” Juniors had different takes on if they think they’ll catch it or not. “I have junioritis now so of course,” says Kennedy. Pierre, however, doesn’t think senioritis will be a problem for him. “I have too many colleges looking at me,” he said. Senior Rashad Banks gives juniors a little word Kennedy of advice on staying on track. “Stay focused and keep thinking about where you’re going to be in the next five years,” says Banks. The one thing he regrets about his senior year: He wishes he would have studied more. “Don’t slack, because when you turn in your last transcript, it can determine whether you get into college or not,” says senior Deonna Mims.

Dressing up your dormitory By DEONNA MIMS SNN Staff Writer

When thinking of college, it’s all about budgeting. Buying cheaper clothes, food and books - but what about your home away from home? Yes, I’m talking about the small dorm room that is always grey and shabby but with help and patience can be turned into an ideal space. Websites and stores such as Walmart, Bed Bath and Beyond, IKEA and Target have wonderful pieces that create a homey feel to an otherwise sterile space. When looking for things to buy for your dorm room, the major necessity would be storage. Space is limited so having a place for all your necessities is a must for staying organized. Storage bins come in all shapes, sizes and colors that will surely fit any style you plan to achieve for your “college look.” Being stressed out about essays and tests will be a common part of college life and the last thing you should want is to return to a stressful room. The color and the pattern of your bed sheets can determine whether your dorm room will be tranquil and calm, so stay away from loud prints such as zebra and settle for more earthy tones such as blues, greens and peaches. Many colleges only have extra large twin beds so make sure you buy the right type of bedding and don’t forget to bring a mattress pad along. Try and refrain from bringing your own ancient and shaggy favorite items from home, you have to remember that it is not only your space but also the space of your roommates. Sharing the responsibility of decorating a common area together will also give you time to bond, compromise and get to know the personality of your roommate. Another thing that is extremely important is pre-planning. Don’t wait until the last minute to decide what you want to bring with you to college. This will only bring stress and confusion and no one likes to leave something that they really needed. Also, you don’t have to purchase boxes all on your own. Go to your local stores such as Walmart and Family Dollar and ask for the unused boxes, they will gladly hand them over. Remember that with a smaller space you have less room to be messy. Wash your clothes weekly. Do not follow in the footsteps of TV show college students, returning home and dumping loads and loads of clothes onto their parents to wash. Though the washing machines may be a little “pricey,” you’ll be glad when your roommates won’t complain about the mini city dump you have stored in your room.

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Class of

Seniors by the numbers

The seniors in the Class of 2011 have seen numerous changes throughout their high school careers. Every year brought new policies, different rules and changes in administration . The seniors have dealt with the ups and downs and learned many lessons about life . As the seniors move on to bigger and better things, they will always be able to cherish the memories and experiences theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve received in the hallways of Lakewood High . - Kala Funderburk, SNN Staff Writer

Graph by KALA FUNDERBURK | SNN

of 2011

Seniors: Are you afraid of the future?

Since we were little, people have always asked us what we wanted to be when we grew up. Now we’re graduating, and it’s time to pick our college majors. SNN conducted a survey and results showed that Lakewood seniors aspire to be everything from actors to soldiers to doctors. So, Lakewood, what do YOU want to be when you grow up?

“(I’m) not really afraid ... I’m not really scared of growing up. I just like to be young.” - Tiffany Browning

“You can’t control the future; whatever happens (is going to) happen anyway,” - Rejai Goodridge

Survey by ALEX BRACKX, JACOB PHILLIPS, JAMEZ WALKER, KATIE BLEVINS and KRISTIN HARDY | SNN

“A part of me is ready to take the big step and see what life is like outside these high school walls. A part of me feels like I’m just not ready to go.” - Tymecia McAffee

“For one I have God on my side and for two (I’m going to) stay focused ... It’s been a long journey, but I enjoyed it.” - Takira Black

Lakewood’s Class of 2011 lines the bleachers for one of the last times they will all be together: the senior panoramic picture. SNN singled out students who were dubbed “outstanding” at the annual awards ceremony. Illustration by SPENCER BLEVINS | SNN

“Yes and no.Yes, because I’m so used to someone holding my hand and no because I’m ready to break free and have that independence.” - Jasmine Gilgosch Quotes gathered by Jannelle Ward and Caleb Baker

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Ho L L YWo o D ’ The sounds of summer A L o H l Your page for reviews of the latest movies, books, fashion and music.

By DEONNA MIMS SNN Staff Writer

The sun is out and the quest for hot music has returned. With spring break behind us and summer quickly approaching, I say it’s time you break out the pen and paper and create your blazing hot playlist for summer 2k11. Well, SNN is here for you with a playlist that you are sure to keep from the beginning of summer to the end. We all know songs by artists such as Nicki Minaj, Wiz Khalifa and the Black Eyed Peas. But now it’s time to recognize the underground artists who are making big names for themselves with tours overseas and secret - almost hard to find - mix tapes. MTV recently featured indie artists from around the world for Indie Music Month, and I will fill you in on each group. First up is indie rapper Theophilus London, who is quietly storming our neighbors across the pond with his newest released CD Love Holiday, which features Flying Overseas and Girls, Girls, $ – but the U. S. resident and the Brooklyn-native claims the throne for his borough with his simple retro beats, throwback sense of style and mannerisms. New up-and-coming artist Oh Land (singer Nanna Oland Fabricius) is making her way to success with electric and soulful sounds on the airways and was one of MTV’s artists of the week. Her self-titled CD was released in March and, with her unique voice and electronic-inspired pop songs, it's hard to imagine anyone overlooking Oh Land's music or confusing her with a one-hit wonder. Although the group 3D Friends is considered old news, it made its official comeback when one of its songs was featured on MTV’s version of the originally-British show Skins as the theme song. A part of the “chill wave” music revolution, its debut album Lina Magic, released in November 2010, was the poster child of “chill.” With soft piano sounds and catchy-repetitive lyrics, this group is a definite listen on calm evenings. Caution! For those of you who do not have a good sound system this artist may not be the best choice for beloved cars. Bay area rapper Wallpaper, brings back the 1980s and 1990s electronic beats and heavy bass action with his MTV hit song #stupidfacedd. Following in the steps of artists such as Too Short and E-40, Wallpaper is in it to win it, and bringing his unique style of music to his hometown. His debut album Doodoo Face, was released in September 2009.

Coming to life on the big screen By TIFFANY BROWNING SNN Staff Writer

Hunger Games, the novel that is an ALA Top Ten Best Book for Young Adults, that has been on the New York Times best seller list for more than 100 consecutive weeks and is now in the process of being transformed into a movie. The book takes place in a country called Panem, the ruins of what was once North America. It’s made up of twelve districts. Every year, the country holds what is called the Hunger Games. Each district sends one boy and one girl to represent their district and they all fight for their lives. In the book, we follow Katniss Everdeen, from district 12, as she volunteers to be put in place of her younger sister Prim during the reaping of the Games. Also chosen to represent his district is Peeta Mellark. When Katniss and Peeta are in the arena during the Hunger Games, Katniss uses her experience of hunting with her best friend Gale back in district 12, along with her excellence with a bow and arrow to help her survive in the arena. The book had me hooked to the point where I couldn’t put it down; just imagine how great the movie will be. Being a big fan of this excellent trilogy, I can’t wait for the movie. The release date for the Hunger Games is March 23, 2012, and the Lionsgate movie company has been letting out only little bursts of information. So far, we know the main characters have been cast. Jennifer Lawrence (academy award nominee for Winter’s Bone) has been cast as Katniss Everdeen. District 12’s baker boy, Peeta Mellark, is being played by actor Josh Hutcherson (The Kids Are Alright and Bridge to Terabithia) and the teen heartthrob, Liam Hemsworth (The Last Song), is playing Gale. The district tributes of Panem are being cast with just a few roles still being considered. The director of the movie is Gary Ross. Everybody has their own views of what each character looks like in their head, and now that it’s being made into a movie, the process is kind of exciting. I can’t wait for the movie, but my only worry is that the movie won’t be as great as the book.

Listen with caution: Perri’s ‘Lovestrong’ may cause tears to fall By SYMONE BROWN SNN Staff Writer

Christina Perri’s debut album Lovestrong plays on the heartstrings of the love birds and the lovesick. This collection by the inked singer is full of cutesy acoustic numbers and heartwrenching ballads. Perri belts out wellpenned lyrics with her imperfect voice, conveying passion and raw emotion.

SNN

Lovestrong is geared mostly toward the heartbroken. The album blends the angst and hurt of heartbreak into a melancholy masterpiece. Even the more upbeat love songs have a dark cloud hanging over them, with sorrow seeping through the sappy lines: “I’ve never truly loved ’til you put your arms around me and I believe that it’s easier for you to let me go,” Perri sings in Arms.

Along with sap, the piano pop album employs quirky lyrics (“Like a soulmate, you’re my penguin”), genuine expression and vulnerability. It isn’t a dog and pony show; Perri displays her feelings with simplistic beauty. This is an album you listen to when Cupid’s arrows sting. Lovestrong should be sold with a box of Kleenex.

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fashion

‘As free as my hair’

Gone today: Hair is a part of a person’s personality, and what you do with it shows the world who you are. With red hair you show you’re bold. When you Myrthil wear weave it shows you’re fashion-forward. Perms and highlights mean you have different sides to your personality. But what does natural hair tell others about you? Senior Josianne Myrthil is natural, but she hasn’t always been. “I’ve had relaxed hair and I would wear it in ponytails, but I don’t know what to do with a perm,” she said. So she decided to go back to natural and she cut all the permed hair off. Right now she wears a very short afro, a style she’s had for three months. She

got the idea from a YouTube video and watched other African-American girls talk about going natural. With change, however, there is a challenge. When she first went natural, “I was scared. I was only 11. Everyone had their hair, and they would tease me.” People didn’t accept the change, even her mother. “She thinks you have to have long hair,” Myrthil said. Having natural hair doesn’t mean Myrthil opposes relaxers, “but at the same time it’s not loving who you are.” Here’s her advice to other girls who may want to go natural: “Don’t be scared. Just do it. ... It’s sending a good message that you don’t need chemicals to be beautiful, and it’s okay to be different and stand out,” she says. - Treniece Green/SNN Staff Writer

Pretty boy swag By BYRON BOYKINS

Hair tomorrow: Cascading curls and long luscious locks flow from the heads of the starlets here at Hollywood High. Freshman Bre’asia Norton is one of Norton the glitter girls who isn’t afraid to embrace her hair-whether it’s her own or store bought. Norton began wearing extensions upon her arrival to Lakewood. She says she feels pressured to wear weave, because “you have to dress up at Lakewood.” “Everyone that goes here comes with the biggest and baddest outfits. Every chance they get, they strut their stuff with no hesitation,” she says. Though at times she is faux-fabulous, Norton will also take a break and wear her dark brown, collar-bone length, relaxed

hair. “My real hair is long, very thick and healthy,” says Norton. But she prefers to be versatile when it comes to hair extensions. “You’re able to try many different styles without damaging your real hair,” says Norton. Norton has rocked hairstyles from asymmetrical ‘dos to silky twists to fish bones. She achieves these styles by using glue, sew-ins and braids. She gets her hair extensions from Beauty Depot splurging anywhere from $50-80 to get name brands like Batik and the Janet Collection replacing the extensions. “Everyone around me inspires me to wear hair extensions. From how uniquely different their hairstyles to how they stand tall with pure confidence because they know they look good,” she says. - Symone Brown/SNN Staff Writer

Old is the new new By SHANTE SHEDRICK

SNN Staff Writer

Swag is not something I have; it’s not something I do. It’s something I express. I rock whatever I’m feeling even if society doesn’t approve of it. I wear my clothing - such as LRG, American Eagle, 8732, Akoo, Tommy, Nike, Jordan, Adidas and even non-major labels - with precaution but also persistence. Many days, I just throw on a white or black V-neck shirt with some gym shorts, cargo shorts and even plain jeans to express that I’m just cooling it. But when I’m feeling like it’s a day to come correct and go hard, I show off my swagger. Truthfully, it’s all about kicks for me. I’d rather have some off-the-wall kicks than an outfit. When you have a nice pair of shoes, you can always throw on some jeans and a crisp t-shirt. Well, I feel anybody can wear all brands of shoes and clothing, but if you don’t have your own swagger or style you’re nothing but another person in the crowd. In other words you don’t stand out. On the other hand, I have the type of swag that can’t be bought, stolen or borrowed because mine is never the same. I have to switch it up and let the world know that I’m not afraid to experiment. - Byron Boykins has been writing this fashion column all year. This is his last installment before he graduates and heads to college.

The end is near. As seniors depart for college or embark on other journeys, cautious spending is as crucial as ever before. This guide will help you as you choose inexpensive clothing by thrifting. Everything in a thrift store is from last season or even a decade ago… or two. Though it may not be your typical clothing store, it’s one that will save you a lot more money in the long run. Believe it or not more and more people are relying on thrift and consignment shops for basic clothing essentials. Some have no other choice due to financial hardships; others are uber-stylish hipsters who turn to thrifting for vintage pieces that can’t be found elsewhere. “It’s all about finding inexpensive clothes that have history behind them and having fun - kind of like a hunt,” said senior Sydney Solan. From ancient shirts, to shorts, skirts, blazers and even prom dresses, there’s no doubt that it’s fun to mix and match vintage clothing with the latest trends of the season. “The cheapest piece I’ve ever bought was a black velvet corseted prom dress I wore to prom my junior year. It fit awesome, and I only got it for $5,” said Solan. Everyone has different ways of creat-

Self portrait by BYRON BOYKINS | SNN

ing a unique style. Thrifting is one that has been around forever but has recently become more common in our age group. The best part is that you’d never know unless someone spoke of it. “One thing to keep in mind when thrifting is that when you go in looking for something, you’re most likely not going to find it because it’s not like a regular store. Instead, when you least expect to, you discover something that makes your whole trip worthwhile,” explained Solan.

Here are a couple of local thrift shops you can explore: MISRED Outfitters 615 Central Avenue. Art Poole Gallery 919 1st. Avenue North. Friends of Strays 2911 47th Avenue North Second Image 9103 US-19 North

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opinion W e d n e s d a y, J u n e 1 , 2 0 11 Editorial

Give more, get more Spartan News Network Staff Editor-in-Chief: Taylor LaPuma Design/Copy Chief: Spencer Blevins Multimedia Editors: Katie Atkisson, Madeline Glassman Opinions Editor: Sofia Damos Sports Editor: Julia Pohlmann Online Editors: Molinseai Elcius, Jessica Thornton Chief Photographer: Tyler Holcombe Video Editor: Morgan McCabe

Code of Ethics As journalists for the Spartan News Network, we work together as a community with respect, professionalism, accuracy and curiosity. We collect information and dig deep to get to the bottom of the most current events to produce and distribute hard-hitting and honest news to the Lakewood community in a timely manner. SNN is an open forum that strives to accurately report a balanced and truthful depiction of the news while remaining objective. Our main goal at SNN is to build and maintain trust with the people, to give a voice to the voiceless and to succeed at not just painting the picture, but telling the story behind the art. SNN is produced by the students of Lakewood High School. 1400 54th Ave. S St. Petersburg, FL (727) 893-2916, ext. 2163 SNN is printed by Lakewood’s business partner, the St. Petersburg Times.

For more news, go to the SNN web site:

snntoday.snn.pcsb.org

SNN

Our year at Lakewood: a new principal, the constant presence of state officials and future-debilitating state budget cuts. After the stress of the year simmers down to a boil, many wish to spend their summer lazing around, relaxing before school next year, wasting valuable time that could be spent doing something else. For a number of students, hours are needed for scholarships and personal involvement. And for a number of students, cash is a must for the summer season, meaning long days searching endlessly for a summer job. If you’re a tree-hugger, who wants to help improve the environment, spend your summer assisting City and County Park Services, or if fish and seaweed is more your style, try the Clearwater Marine Aquarium. Assisting the elderly is always a popular choice – assisted living facilities and nursing homes may fit the bill. If you’re a future medical worker you may be eligible to spend your summer volunteering at a hospital, or at the American Red Cross. Mentor programs like Big Brothers/Big Sisters of America could be a fulfilling way to spend your summer, influencing a child’s life in a positive way. There’s something out there for everybody, with projects ranging from legal issues, to mentoring at-risk students. Now every student needs a little cash, but there is a country-wide epidemic concerning summer jobs for teenagers: you have to be 16, 18 in some places, to get a real job. And although the jobs themselves are hard to find, don’t agonize over that - with persistence you are sure to find something. But, if you fall below that age line, don’t worry. There are jobs for you: babysitting. With a certification in CPR, and any other necessary skills, you can make big bucks taking care of kids. The same, if not more than you would make at a regular job with consistent hours. You could also have the opportunity to tutor kids, who may need help in subjects like reading or math. It is possible to find listings in newspapers, or you can hit up the local library to see if there is a calling for useful-tutors. In essence, this year has been an interesting one – with changes that have been both positive and negative, summer vacation is a time to relax. Yet, don’t fall into the trap that many teens do: wasting time that could eliminate future worry. Volunteer, a few hours a day, a few days a week, a few weeks of the break and you’re done. This editorial reflects the opinion of the SNN staff and was written by Sofia Damos, editor editorials.

Letter

Gov. Scott’s policies will hurt state Dear Editor: In the last issue of SNN, a piece was done in defense of Gov. Rick Scott. I feel like that piece was totally lacking in facts and perspective, much like Scott’s policies. Does money come out of nowhere? Well it certainly doesn’t come out of the pockets of rich business owners like Gov. Scott. Scott just gave a corporate income tax exemption that allows about 15,000 businesses to not pay about $37-million in taxes to the government. While the rich get richer, the poor keep losing jobs. The state legislature is planning on eliminating 4,492 state jobs this coming year, but don’t worry everyone, those 4,492 people (and the rest of the 1,029,664 unemployed Floridians) can just take some initiative and do a fundraiser to cover their salaries for the rest of their lives. And if that fundraiser works, those people can look forward to not having Medicaid because Gov. Scott has had a reform plan approved to send nearly three-million Medicaid recipients into managed care, then allowing, yep you guessed it, HMO’s and other big businesses to bid on managing these managed care recipients. So now that these unemployed people have taken initiative and been sent into a living environment with 200 other elderly people, they can just sit back and wait for their uneducated kids to come visit them because with Gov. Scott’s multi-billion education budget cut, their kids will not have the type of education that used to be valued in this country. In the column in the last SNN, it mentioned how Gov. Scott’s approach is just like the laissez faire economics of the 1920s. What the article failed to mention was that the economy during the ‘20s was due to increased production to fund World War I, not laissez faire economics. You may ask, “Matt, what proof do you have of this?” and I might tell you that my proof is a little thing called the Great Depression, which occurred immediately after the ‘20s. If you honestly think “Scott plans to cut back on programs that hold little value in today’s society,” then you really have no idea what society values. - Matt Saunders, junior

In your words SNN surveyed students, asking, “What will you be doing this summer to better yourself or help others?” “I’m volunteering at West Care. It’s a center that takes care of people with drug abuse problems and anger issues. I teach computers. I used to do it for Bright Futures, but now I’m doing it for myself.” - Brittney Ramirez, 12th grade “I will be volunteering in the gift shop at All Children’s Hospital. I want to get extra volunteer hours so it looks good on a college application plus when I apply for a job it looks good on a resume.” - Cassandra Owa, 11th grade “I will be volunteering at the VA Medical Center. I will be helping the patients get to their rooms, do paperwork and make phone calls. My mama told me I had to get out of her house this summer plus it looks good on a college application.” - Arnieciea Little, 10th grade “I am working doing an internship with a medical practice. I will be following the doctor around and see what they do on a day to day basis. I want to be a doctor and it will help to see how doctors operate.” - Janae’ Hines, 12th grade “I am volunteering at Westminster twice a week all summer long. I’m also working at Larry’s Ice Cream Shoppe and going to volleyball camp.” - Zora Wells, 11th grade “I am cleaning up the environment at parks and beaches. I am an environmentally conscious person.” - William Baylor, 11th grade

Share Your Opinions Letters to the editor should be sent to tobink@pcsb.org. They should concern an opinion on a featured editorial or news story. They must be signed, accurate and at most 150 words. Letters may be edited for taste, length and grammar.

W e d n e s d a y, J u n e 1 , 2 0 11

opinion

Columns

Students flake out on awards ceremony By KALA FUNDERBURK SNN Staff Writer

When I first received my invitation to the Lakewood High School annual awards ceremony, I was curious about what award I would be receiving. Dianne Roth, who was persistent about my presence on the upcoming Tuesday night, I actually began to get anxious about the ceremony. However, when I arrived at the Lakewood auditorium at 6:15 for the 6:30 start, the auditorium was not even half full. The ceremony opened with the presentation of the awards to the traditional and CAT valedictorians and salutatorians. I was shocked when one of the students didn’t show to receive this prestigious award, but the attendance only got worse as the night went on. Several of the Doorways recipients

were not in attendance; some were walking in late as their names were being called and some sat in the audience choosing not to go on stage to receive their awards. I honestly sat in the auditorium and laughed because no one seemed to take this ceremony seriously. The first embarrassing part of this ceremony was the presentation of the book awards. The Smith Book Award and the Mt. Holyoke College Book Award recipients did not show, even after being praised highly by the visitors who took time out of their night to come and recognize students who embodied the characteristics of these awards. The second and most embarrassing part was the Florida Holocaust Museum Anne Frank Award recipient who did not show. Edward Rudd, the representative from the Holocaust Museum, gave a five-minute speech about this wonderful girl who vol-

unteers her time to children and the elderly and is praised highly by her teachers. I was looking forward to seeing this girl and when he finally announced the name of the recipient all the applause was laid to rest when the crowd determined the girl was not in the audience. Rudd’s face turned from joyful to embarrassed. After talking highly of this girl and not being able to present her with the award, he just quietly and awkwardly left the stage in silence. I felt bad because it makes our school’s student body look like we don’t care about being recognized for the good we do or that we can’t take the time to thank others for recognizing what we do as students. As the night went on the tallies racked up for the students who weren’t in attendance. There were no shows for recipients of senior plaques, medals and certificates in almost every category that was to be presented. This night was supposed to

recognize students who are quietly doing good, but it seemed that there were few people who looked at this ceremony in the same way that I did. There are certain circumstances that kept students from attending, which vary from parents being at work, living too far away from school and having no transportation; but from what I heard around school many students just didn’t want to go. Maybe we didn’t advertise it enough in school, maybe it was because students didn’t know what award they were getting or maybe they didn’t feel this was a prestigious enough event. But I think that if the teachers and administrators put effort into creating a ceremony just for us students and nominating students who deserve to be recognized, we should show more appreciation and at least show up to the event.

Hollywood highlight reel By JOE CRUZ

SNN Staff Writer

We Spartans have made it through another year. For 10 months students have roamed the halls, pushed their way to the front of the cart line, worked hard in and out of class and on the track and the field. Here’s a rundown of major events and issues that affected Lakewood this year: Highlights • FCAT passing rate – Lakewood’s juniors and seniors achieved the highest passing rate among the county for FCAT reading retakes in the fall. • Girls’ basketball championship – The girls’ basketball team won the state 4A basketball championship, the first time Lady Spartans have won since 1989. • Major academy changes – Last year, students found out small learning communities were getting eliminated. This year, the Center for Journalism and Multimedia was created. • School renovations – The school used some of its grant money to replace doors, renovate stairways and install new tile floors in classrooms. • Less skipping and fighting – The rate for skipping decreased sharply, which means students spent more time in the classroom. Discipline referrals for student violence were not as frequent. • Improved school grade – Last year, we were a D school. We improved to a C school. Lowlights • Violence near Lakewood – At the beginning of the year, gunshots were fired near the football field during a game. Although no one was hurt, it was a scary situation. In a separate incident, a student was stabbed near Lake Vista as he walked home from school. • Homecoming – Outrage over Lakewood’s no grinding policy at school dances inspired students to organize their own off-campus homecoming event. The official school dance struggled from dismal attendance. • New attendance policy – Most students enjoyed last year’s policy of unlimited absences. Changes to the policy year meant students who missed more than five classes couldn’t exempt any of their final exams. • Retirement – Assistant Principal Laurie Beam retired.

SNN

sports

W e d n e s d a y, J u n e 1 , 2 0 11

Black and Gold

Sophomore Marquez Valdez (11) catches the ball as he runs down the field during the Black and Gold football game on May 20. Lakewood’s football team played mentally and physically tough during the game, coach Cory Moore said. The scrimmage gave coaches an opportunity to examine the team’s strengths and weaknesses, Moore said. “The offense was very explosive, very fun to watch,” Moore said. “The defense had an attack style that … allowed the players to play fast and aggressive.” - Jalon Edwards/SNN Staff Writer

RACHELLE GADDY | SNN

Tether time By JAMEZ WALKER and DEVIN RILEY SNN Staff Writers

DEVIN RILEY | SNN

Seniors Shannon Hamilton and Warren Witherspoon play tetherball during gym class.

SNN

They stood opposite of each other, separated by a pole and a ball, ready to battle. Warren Witherspoon and Shannon Hamilton, both seniors, faced each other in one of the newest activities in gym class: tetherball. The game is new to Lakewood. Coach Daniel Wright said they added the sport this semester because the weight room is under construction, and they needed another activity. “It’s a great game, man,” he said. Hamilton said she has been playing tetherball since elementary school. “It’s a hobby,” Hamilton said. “I’m a die-hard fan.” Tetherball is played with a round ball that resembles a volleyball. The ball is attached to a nine- foot cord that is attached to the top of a seven- foot pole. One theory is that tetherball was invented by one group of people near Russia

in the ninth century. These people captured their enemies and attached them with a rope to a pole and beat them around with sticks. Nowadays, the game is played with two people on playgrounds and in gym classes. The players stand on either side of the pole and hit the ball until the cord and ball wrap around the pole. A foul is caused by a player who strikes the ball with any part of his or her body other than his or her hands. The player who wraps the ball around four times wins the game. A set is seven games. The player who reaches four first wins the set. In mid-April, Hamilton and Witherspoon were slamming the ball around the pole until it came off the cord. The game ended in a draw because there wasn’t enough time left in gym class for another match.

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sports

End-of-the-year stats

As the year dwindles to an end, we compiled the varsity fall, winter, and spring sports records and thoughts from the coaches.

Fall

Cross Country

Coach: Royston Dillon Opinion of the season: “Cross country is a grueling sport,” athletic director Deb Fabrizio said. Thoughts for next year: “We hope to have as many (cross-country runners) as we do track runners,” she said.

Golf (5-18)

Coach: John Toronski Opinion of the season: “We had a young team this year with just (one) senior,” Tronski said. Thoughts for next year: “Next year the juniors need to step up,” he said.

Football (9-4)

Coach: Cory Moore Opinion of the season: “It was a good year, (but) we have a long way to go to be great,” Moore said. RACHELLE GADDY | SNN

Lakewood standout Dante Fowler smiles on the sidelines while taking a break during the Black and Gold game at Lakewood on May 20. The defensive end has verbally committed to Florida State University. For an audio slideshow about Fowler, go to snntoday.snn.pcsb.org and click on multimedia.

Hitting hard with a smile By DEANDRA EAST and MARTEZ ANDERSON SNN Staff Writers

Junior Dante Fowler is a star defensive end on the varsity football team. He’s been at it since he was 5 years old. When he was 9 he had to switch little leagues because he was too heavy, a rule that is in place so that no other kids will get hurt. Fowler’s size would prove to be a big factor in his success in high school. “I was big,” said Fowler. “I eat a lot.” Since playing at Lakewood, he has received numerous awards and recognitions, including being nominated as an Army All-American and being ranked 11th in the nation by Rivals.com, a Yahoo sports web site. He is only the second five-star athlete (since his cousin Chris Davis who plays for the Tennessee Titans) ever named in Pinellas County. Scouts began hounding Fowler when he was in ninth grade and playing for St. Petersburg Catholic. At Lakewood High School, where he transferred when he was a sophomore, he stands at 6’3, 230 pounds, towering over the competition. At the end of the 11th grade Fowler said he was verbally committed to Florida State University, but other schools are still looking at him. “I like the way he plays. He’s a great rusher. He comes off the edge and gets at the quarterback. I like the way he hustles,” said University of Florida coach Derek Lewis, who recently visited Lakewood.

Although Fowler’s accomplishments are lengthy, his grades may come up short. He may be a superstar on the football field, but he struggles to show the same results in the classroom. Fowler and other football players get help from teacher Chantella Moore to help better their academics. “(I’m) trying to get them up there, ”said Fowler about his grades He said he especially struggles in Spanish and geometry. He currently has a 2.03 GPA and hopes to raise it. He goes to tutoring for several hours and often goes to practice late so that he can get his work done, he said. Coach Cory Moore, however, said he thinks Fowler will be able to go to college. “He’s a very good player (with) a very high motive,” he said. Florida State coaches are aware of his grades, Fowler said: “They said they’re going to be by my side.” When he goes to college he is going to study criminology and hopes to become an FBI agent. He wants to go to the NFL and play for the Baltimore Ravens who are known for their strong defense. Fowler’s mother is very involved in his life. He said she worries about him a lot. “She wants the best for me,” he said. “I promised my mom that I would go to college all my four years.”

Thoughts for next year: “We need to play more as a team,” Moore said.

Swim and Dive

Coach: Katie Davidson Opinion of the season: “I think that they did very well. I would have liked to see more numbers out. But I think that it is hard for them when practice was at Northeast,” Fabrizio said. Thoughts for next year: “I’m hoping that the practices will be at Lake Vista so that would help on the location for more people,” Fabrizio said.

Volleyball (15-7)

Coach: Sean O’Flannery Opinion of the season: “We had a good start, could have been a better finish,” O’Flannery said. Thoughts for next year: “I think the team is a state contender and final four,” O’Flannery said.

Winter Boys Basketball (13-13)

Coach: Daniel Wright Opinion of the season: “Although our record was not what we expect for our boys basketball program ... it was rewarding. The players gave us a tremendous effort every night out, and I commend them for that,” said Wright. Thoughts for next year: “As for next year, I think they have a chance to get back to the kind of basketball we have become accustomed to around here. Winning ball!” Wright said.

Girls Basketball (26-4)

Coach: Necole Tunsil Opinion of the season: “We won a state championship,” Tunsil said. Thoughts for next year: “The expectation is to come back next year and win another championship,” she said.

Boys Soccer (5-6)

for the talent we had, but I’m very proud of them,” Seoane said. Thoughts for next year: “Next year, we will make it to the state playoffs at least,” Seoane said.

Girls Soccer

Coach: Walter Blake Opinion of the season: “They did well; we have a lot of talented girls. So with new uniforms, new goals, and new equipment will bring out new people,” said Fabrizio. Thoughts for next year: “I’m hoping that the 11th and 10th graders will get better and it will be hard to replace the seniors that we are losing,” said Fabrizio.

Wrestling

Coach: Frank Niles Opinion of the season: “They did well. I feel that more guys should come out like guys that do fall sports. We are getting a new weight room, new wresting ropes and new uniforms,” said Fabrizio said.

Coach: Alexander Seoane Opinion of the season: “We could have done better

Spring Track (Boys 8-5, girls 9-4)

Coach: Anthony Snead, Megan Geidner Opinion of the season: “It was very succesful. In the beginning, it looked like it was going to be shaky. I took the most (players I ever have since I’ve been here) to states. (We were one of the) tops in regional and states,” said Snead. Thoughts for next year: “We’re losing a lot of seniors. We hope we will get a lot of new hardworking players. I hope we’ll stay on top,” said Snead.

Flag Football (9-4)

Coach: Necole Tunsil Opinion of the season: “We did well with what we had. It was a lot of fun coaching them,” said Tunsil. Thoughts for next year: “I hope we get a lot more young ladies to come out. Like always, our number one goal is to win a state championship,” said Tunsil.

Tennis (boys 7-8, girls 8-7)

Coach: Brian Taylor Opinion of the season: “They both did pretty well,” said Taylor. Thoughts for next year: “We need some new blood for next year. We change districts for next year so we will have a winning record,” he said.

Baseball (8-12)

Coach: Cory Scott Opinion of the season: “It took us half the season to get the team playing as a unit, to get them used to the coaching staff, and to get them to find passion within for the game. We played this kind of baseball the last half of the season, and competed with some of the top teams in the county and kept close games.” said Scott. Thoughts for next year: “The 2012 year will be a successful year. Coach Newman and I look forward to continuing what we have started and putting Lakewood baseball on the map in Pinellas County,” Scott said.

Softball (6-10)

Coach: Haley Forsyth Opinion of the season: “Making it throught the first round of districts was a big triumph for our team! I believe the 2011 Spartan Softball team was able to really bond as a team,” said Forsyth. Thoughts for next year: “I hope I am able to work with these ladies for years to come. Go Spartans!” Forsyth said.

SNN

Tug-o-War, Nov. 11, 2010

Softball Star, Nov. 28, 2010

MADELINE GLASSMAN | SNN

RACHELLE GADDY | SNN

Evening, Sept. 3, 2010 JANAE’ HINES | SNN

Flipper, Sept. 2, 2010

State Champs, Feb. 26, 2011

Gryff, March 24, 2011

JALON EDWARDS | SNN

MADELINE GLASSMAN | SNN

SYLVIA CZYSZCZON | SNN

SNN presents the 2010-2011 Pictures of the Year Jam Session, Feb. 18, 2011

Behind the Designs, Nov. 30, 2010

ALEX BRACKX | SNN

WILL BOLINGER | SNN

Pep Rally, Nov. 12, 2010

RACHELLE GADDY | SNN