The wheels on the bus are late, again

pg. 3

& black

Florida’s first high school newspaper Hillsborough High School 5000 N. Central Ave. Tampa, FL 33603 December 2013 hhstoday.com @hhstodayonline Volume 114, No. 4

Learning their A, B, Seas: Students entering the Naval Academy pgs. 4-5

Wrestlers dominate at home tourney pg. 14

Holiday Hooplah

pgs. 8 -9

PAGE

2news

hhstoday.com | December 2013

& black Editors-in-Chief Nikki Ferrera Ellie Rodriguez

News Editors

Entertainment Editors

Ivy Bennett-Ford Maria Roberts Kathy Xie

Daniel Dolford Vijata Patel Shelby Shoup

Opinion Editors

Life Editor

Hayley McAleese Cade McCurdy

Holly Schroeder

Sports Editors

Photo Editors

Samantha Votzke Daniel Hamilton

Katie Frost Aleesha Mundra

Graphics Editor John Veliz

Irresponsible drivers abound

cal

A Bradenton mother was convicted of using inhalant drugs and falling asleep at the wheel of her car at an intersection on Dec. 6 while her 1-year-old son was in the back seat. According to police, Jennifer Ann Lee said she “I think that it’s right fell asleep while at the intersection and, when asked about her motives, offered that she was arrested. If an explanation of “I was tired, and it she does something like happens.” this again in the future, While being read her Miranda rights, police said that Lee unleashed a she should have her baby violent vertaken away.” bal attack on all — Gage Steinke, 9 officers present. Officers removed approximately 20 containers of inhalant drugs from her car, and Lee is currently facing a criminal charge of child neglect. Manatee County

lo

Florida teachers ace evaluations

stat

Nearly all of Florida’s teachers who underwent a new system of evaluations were given one of top two rankings. Over 97 percent of teachers ranked “highly effective” or “effective,” but ratings varied widely among school districts. “This isn’t fair because The evaluation system is partial- some students really don’t ly based on grades on high-stakes care, and it reflects negatests and partially based on classtively on the teacher.” room observation. The system has — Thomas recently faced Mercedes, 9 criticism because of its reliance on test Florida scores.

e

Staff Writers

Adviser

Joe Humphrey, MJE

Principal Johan von Ancken

The Red & Black belongs to the Florida and National Scholastic press associations. The paper is subject to prior review by school administration. The staff editiorial reflects the view of student editors and the columns represent the viewpoints of their authors. The R&B welcomes letters from students, teachers and members of the Hillsborough community. Letters may be edited for brevity and clarity, and should be submitted to Room 506 or to the Red & Black, 5000 N. Central Ave., Tampa, Fla. 33603. Advertising content is subject to approval of the editorial board. The Red & Black is printed in partnership with The Tampa Tribune. This newspaper includes content from the MCT Campus wire service. Phone (813) 276-5620; Fax (813) 276-5629; e-mail hhstoday@gmail.com Red & Black: All-Florida, FSPA; First Class, NSPA HHSToday.com, All-Florida, 2012-13

www.hhstoday.com

Too fast, too furious

Typhoon strikes Philippines

Paul Walker, best known for his roles in “The Fast and the Furious” movies, died Nov. 30 in a car accident “‘Fast and Furious’ movies are amazing, and and explosion Valencia, in Southern Calif. [Walker’s death] was California. He tragic. “ was 40. — Matthew Padilla, 9 Walker was in the passenger seat of a 2005 Porche driven by a racing team partner. The car slammed into a light pole and burst into flames in Santa Clarita. The Los Angeles County Police department confirmed that the driver was likely driving up to 50 miles per hour above the speed limit.

n o i t na

briefly

Vincent Bencomo David Blanchard Sarvika Bommakanti Clayton Callison Josie Chappell Sophia Diaz-Carraway Dana Dinh Valean Hawkins Kenni Holland Jose Leon Kourtney Melendi Monisha Pillai Vishwa Shah

The Philippines were struck last month by what is being called “the worst storm in human history.” Typhoon Haiyan ravaged the city Philippines of Tacloban with winds of 140 mph, 13-foot f l o o d “I hope people continue levels and a death toll resting to help and support the at almost 10,000. Haiyan also left 10 Philippines during this million citizens of Tacloban facing hard time.” new lives as homeless, injured or or— Nikki Trasmonte, 11 phaned. Citizens of countries around the globe pitched in to send aid to the island nation. Many organizations, such as the International Committee of the Red Cross, worked to send disaster relief to help victims of the destruction Typhoon Haiyan left in its wake. - Kathy Xie

wor

ld

Hillsborough accommodates Sunday Market Every second Sunday of the month from October to May, local vendors gather to sell their goods on Hillsborough’s front lawn. The multitude of vendors offer a wide selection of locally produced products, including hand-made soaps, clothing, vegetables and fruits. For those arriving around lunch time,

sandwiches, crepes, drinks and other lunch options are available. Hillsborough’s drama teacher, Jeff Pittard, has performed a few times with his band at the market. The next Sunday Market will be on Dec. 22. - Monisha Pillai

PAGE

news3

December 2013 | hhstoday.com

Of 130 students asked, 98 said that they ride the bus.

90 percent of bus riders report being late to school.

Students wait to board a bus that has yet to pull through the queue to ferry them home. (Photo by Vishwa Shah)

WAITING Dozens of students are stranded daily because their school buses are late. Students can blame this on procedure, pay and a bus driver shortage. Vince Bencomo Staff Writer The sun’s blazing radiance has a bizarre effect on high school students, seemingly left abandoned by their only way of getting home. They may become filled with rage, or sheer boredom. Perhaps they are a tad perturbed. Just when it seems as though all is lost, a chariot, forged of yellow metal and 11 miles per gallon, graces the veil of heat. The children board sweaty, dizzy and wondering why it took so long to perform a task that seems so simple: riding the bus home. This may sound like the closer of a postapocalyptic novel, but in reality, it is just the average afternoon of more than 100 students. Due to a severe lack of drivers and a procedure that causes buses to take double the time

62% of students have taken a detour to or from school

78% of students have been on an overcrowded bus

it normally would to pick up their riders, students are left waiting for sometimes up to an hour just to get a ride home. “It’s late literally every day,” said junior Andry Sanchez. “My driver said that it’s because she has to go across the county to pick up elementary kids, and then she has to come all the way back to get us. I think it’s ridiculous.” The problem extends to the morning as well. Junior Patricia Mesa said, “Sometimes we can’t even get breakfast.” According to Assistant Principal Quasar Givens, morning buses are often called out to make up for a lack of drivers. Sophomore Sierra Collins was angered by the lateness of her morning bus as well. “My bus is supposed to get here at 6:15 a.m. but for two weeks straight it’s gotten here at 7:15 a.m.!”

(Graphic by John Veliz)

Givens said that one of the primary reasons the buses are late in the afternoon is because they have to pick up the elementary students, who have first claim to buses and different protocol to follow. Every single elementary student who boards the bus must be signed into a roster; this adds up to 15 extra minutes to the time it takes for them to be taken home. Another protocol is that if a child is on the wrong bus, or left on the ramp, another bus must be dispatched to them to ferry them home. The entire process often cuts into time that could be spent getting middle and high school students home. Junior Jose Reyes recounted a time when such an event occurred. “It got changed and I had to wait for like an hour.”

A bus driver shortage also leads to late buses, according to Givens and district officials. In October, The Tampa Tribune reported that the district, which needs about 1,200 drivers, had less than 1,000. This causes drivers to have to take on extra routes and more students, which makes them even later. Givens, who has handled bus duty since he got to HHS a decade ago, said low pay makes it hard for the district to attract drivers. “At $9 an hour, it’s hard to find people who will willingly drive 80 kids across Tampa two, sometimes three, times a day,” Given said, “when they can drive a city bus and make twice the money and can drive easier routes.”

Best Buddies parent night

Poetry jammin’

On Dec. 5, Best Buddies had a parent night in order to bond and strengthen members with their buddies and get to know each other beyond the time at school. The attendees ate pizza and deserts, and made foam picture frames in lieu of the holiday seasons with each other to grow closer and eventually insert photographs of the buddies together. - Kenni Holland

This year’s Poetry Jam on Dec. 5 saw student poets and lyricists performing original pieces. Rated by a panel of judges, each competitor wrote a freestyle poem and performed it on a small stage with microphone in hand. Casey Craig (pictured) claimed first place, with runners up Alisha Miller and Derek Vick. - Jose Leon

PAGE

4news Two seniors headed to Naval Academy hhstoday.com | December 2013

Anna Paz

She’s known, from the second grade, that she’s wanted to be president. “I love the United States, with everything I am. It’s a civic duty, a calling and it’d be an honor to serve my country,” said the student body president, nationally ranked rower and a future member of the U.S. Naval Academy’s Class of 2018. Being accepted into the Naval Academy is the next step towards Paz’s dream. “I don’t want to give them any opportunity to deny me,” she said. She has made sure no one will have that opportunity, even if it means she has very few opportunities to sleep. “I get maybe three hours a night,” she explains with a smile that could easily pass for well-rested. The former speed skater trains for crew eight hours a day, before and after school. Her sister, junior Samantha Paz (for more about Samantha, see page 14), can’t help but laugh when she explains that “[Anna] has no life. All she does is study, study, study, study, study, crew, study, school, crew.” Paz has received two Congressional nominations (an irregularity, an applicant only requires one nomination to get in), passed her physical exam and has an appointment, which essentially guarantees her a spot among the next incoming class. Paz has maintained a 3.8 unweighted GPA score and, after only one attempt, scored a 2100 on her SAT. Still, “The application was the most difficult

After all their hard work and perseverance, seniors John Garza and Anna Paz are ready for the Naval Academy, with hopes of someday becoming a naval architect and the president of the United States. (Photo by Katie Frost) part,” Paz explained that every component was like an entire college application itself. Constantly devoting her time to activities that she loves, Paz acknowledges that her extracurricular activities are the majority of her social life. Juggling myriad activities and complicated situations is not unfamiliar to last year’s recipient of the principal’s service award and a Book Award from Princeton. Paz explained that she has faced adversity, especially regarding her home life, over her middle school and high school years. “I don’t want pity,” she explains, “I just want people to know that I’m strong. That I can handle whatever [comes my way].” “I am Anna Paz. And I am enough.” -Ellie Rodriguez, Editor-in-Chief

John Garza From the moment he entered high school, John Garza had his sights set on a military academy. Three years later, he is on his way to the Naval Academy. “I was completely in shock,” Garza said of receiving his presidential appointment. “It was crazy and I was speechless.” The long process for Garza started after he attended a seminar the summer of

junior year. The Naval Academy caught his eye and he fell in love with the school, making it his number one pick. He first had to get a preliminary nomination then he was given a special application from the academy. This special application was offered to him because both of his parents were active members of the Army. He did not have to meet with any representatives, because it was online. “Usually you have to meet with a local representative,” he said. Before getting the presidential nomination, he had to complete many application essays online. “I was really stressing out. I have a hard time talking about myself.” He wants to study to become an engineer. “I want go into naval architecture. Designing fast ships seems really cool and I would like to do that in the future.” He believes the work load from the IB program has thoroughly prepared him for the academy. Because he wants to be an engineer, succeeding in physics is crucial. “[John] has this special enthusiasm for physics and the sciences. He has diligence and perseverance, and will do well at the Academy,” said physics teacher Neal Mobley, who has been teaching Garza for the past three years and led him to a passion for engineering. “My main goal is to make a difference in the world,” Garza said. “I believe by joining the service I will be able to develop into the best leader possible.” -Katie Frost, Photo Editor

Blood mobile returns to Hillsborough Students had the opportunity to donate blood through the Florida Blood Services on Dec. 11. Three blood mobiles occupied the track during the school day, where students above the age of 16 and weighing above 110 pounds could donate blood with a consent form signed by a parent or

guardian. Free snacks and drinks were provided for student donors, as well as a Florida Blood Services T-shirt. One donation has the potential to save three lives. “I know it goes for a good cause,” junior Chantel Alvarez said. “Everyone should try it.”

According to Katie Harsanje, a Florida Blood Services representative, the complete process of registration and donation takes about one hour, while the blood donation takes approximately 15 minutes. - Vishwa Shah

PAGE

news5

December 2013 | hhstoday.com

US Academies are schools for...

The United States has five major service academies: West Point, the Naval Academy, the Coast Guard Academy, the Merchant Marines Academy and the Air Force Academy. Each academy has specific standards regarding the physical, academic and moral traits of applicants. Hillsborough students have already taken steps to ensure a successful service. Only the most qualified are accepted. -Maria Roberts and Ivy Bennett-Ford, News Editors

...leaders Christian Montgomery has been in JROTC at Hillsborough since he was a freshman and when he was inspired to join the military. Four years later the senior has received his letter of assurance and his nominations. Normally this would guarantee his spot in the class of 2018 at West Point, but Montgomery has been medically disqualified. He has one shot for a military career. For him it’s “go to the academies or no military and that’s not my choice.” “I could never ask someone else to risk their life for my freedom unless I was willing to do so myself.” He said, “I want to serve and lead soldiers.” Now all he needs to achieve this goal is a medical waiver. “I’m done and just waiting for a waiver,” said Montgomery. If he can qualify for a medical waiver Montgomery will be able attend the West Point Military Academy or the Naval Academy. Without the waiver Montgomery is disqualified from any military service. He said his advice for juniors hoping to attend an academy is “apply very very early.”

...careers Adam Montgomery wants a job that will satisfy him for the rest of his life. He said joining the Naval Academy would fulfill his future career. According to Montgomery, the application process to join any military academy is lengthy. He has a letter of assurance that guarantees his spot if he can get a Congressional nomination. He recieved the letter Dec. 12 and is officially in the Naval Academy clss of 2017. “My application started when I applied for Summer Seminar. All my information went over,” Montgomery said. Summer Seminar is a program run by the U.S. Naval Academy to entice rising seniors to join up. “I didn’t really have any motivation to join,” Montgomery said of his initial position on the Navy, back when he was a junior. “I didn’t know which majors I wanted to pursue. I was unsure.” Montgomery said the most influential person in his decision was his brother, Christian. “I want a job that can use my talents. I want a job that will help me become what I am supposed to be,” said Montogmery. He feels that the Navy can provide him with such a job.

...a great education

Zach Wolf is a senior with military aspirations. He has received a nomination, finished his applications and is waiting for an appointment. “It’s something I’ve wanted to do since the ninth grade.”

In order to achieve his goal he has applied to the Naval, Air Force and Military academies. “I want to serve my country and receive an excellent education,” Wolf said. The academies would allow Wolf to achieve his dream to serve as well as providing him with a world class education.

...fighter pilots

When most kids were dreaming about being astronauts, doctors or firemen, Chris Reigel wanted to be a fighter pilot. “When I was a little kid I always wanted to be a pilot,” he said. He chose to apply to two academies because the US Air Force and the US Navy utilize fighter pilots. “It’s all a waiting game now,” said Reigel, who has finished his applications and interviews and is waiting to hear whether he has received nominations from Congressional representatives.

...service

...sightseers JROTC member Marlon Dorsey applied to both the Naval Academy and the Military Academy. “I really want to be an officer and play sports at the schools,” said Dorsey. Dorsey said he will join the military even if he is not accepted to either academy. “I want to see the world,” a wish that enlisting would grant. Dorsey is from a military family and said that he has always wanted to serve in the military, because it offers “more opportunities and higher rank.” Dorsey’s top choice is the Naval Academy. The most difficult part of the application process according to Dorsey was maintaining the GPA required by the academies for acceptance.

Charis Lee has lived on 12 different military bases because of her dad’s service. She plans to continue this family tradition by attending a US military academy next year. Lee has applied to West Point, the Merchant Marines Academy and the Naval academy. She has received a congressional nomination to the Naval Academy and the Merchant Marines and now just has to wait for an acceptance letter. “I want serve,” Lee said. She said as a child she saw “the impact the military has on the immediate community.” Lee said she thinks the academies “look at you holistically,” and that they want well rounded students who bring diversity to the school. “There’s no specific formula for an officer.” “From a young age, I’ve wanted to serve.”

For updated information, visit hhstoday.com

NHS toy drive

Books and bow strings

For two weeks in December, National Honor Society hosted a toy drive. Used toys sent to room 532 were donated to the Joshua House. NHS members said that the toy drive was rewarding because abandoned toys that they used as children could come to life once more in another child’s hands. The gift of giving really defines the true meaning of the holiday season. - Sarvika Bommakanti

The Red and Black Orchestra performed at the local bookshop for their annual gig on Dec. 12 for a small, yet appreciative crowd. As a full orchestra, the musicians played the gig music that they each receive in freshman year, including “Dance of the Tumblers” and “Eine Kleine Nachtmusik.” - Shelby Shoup

PAGE

6opinion

hhstoday.com | December 2013

It’s not all about Miley

editorial

A Syrian dictator, the founder of Amazon and Miley Cyrus walk into a bar. No, this isn’t a joke — although if it were, it would probably have a killer punch line. These three people were among those on the shortlist for Time magazine’s Person of the Year Award. To many of us, seeing Cyrus on the list of finalists for the eagerly-anticipated award was a bit like a game of “one of these things is not like the other.” Even though she was not ultimately the winner, realizing that a former child star’s name was considered among those of world leaders, business moguls and political personas who have had significant influence on global affairs seemed, well, bizarre. To some, even seemed outrageous. That’s not to say that Miley hasn’t been a cultural game-changer in her own right this past year. For better or worse, it is undeniable that she has been one of the most publicized people of 2013; one staff member even likened her impact on headlines to a “media sharknado.” The issue is not that Cyrus has not generated a ton of news, or that the Person of the Year should be the do-gooder, humanitarian type, or even that the award should go to some super-serious political figure. The

issue is that we aren’t really sure whether or not we want Miley Cyrus to be the type of person who defines 2013. We couldn’t help think that there were individuals who were more deserving of widespread recognition for their undeniable influence on the year’s events, so the Red & Black staff decided to nominate our own People of the Year. Pope Francis – When Jorge Bergoglio selected Francis as his papal name, in honor of Saint Francis of Assisi, the patron saint of the poor, it was clear that we would be seeing a transformed Church. With his comments on religiously divisive issues such as gay marriage and contraception, his devotion to charity and his drive to rid the church of corruption, Pope Francis is on his way to modernizing an institution that hasn’t changed much since the middle ages. Edward Snowden – Snowden is the man responsible for what is considered the most major breach of classified information from the National Security Agency (NSA). He leaked more than 200,000 government documents to the media, including evidence of internet and phone surveillance programs. Public opinion on Snowden varies (he can be considered anywhere on the spectrum

from hero to havoc-wreaker). He is currently exiled from the United States and is hiding out in Russia. Wendy Davis – This summer, Sen. Wendy Davis literally stood up for women’s reproductive rights during an 11 hour filibuster in the Texas Senate. Davis and her pink sneakers made national headlines for her efforts to prevent a bill that would restrict abortion abilities in Texas. Although the bill later passed at a special session, Davis became a feminist favorite, and in October, she announced her plan to run for governor. Last week, Time officially announced its Person of the Year. As it turns out, Pope Francis was given the honor, with Snowden in second place, so the worrying about Cyrus was somewhat unwarranted. Still, if we as a society want to complain about her place on the list, we have to be willing to take the blame. We, as consumers, as tweeters, and as products of the modern age are the ones who skyrocketed Cyrus to relevancy. If we want our news to be serious, we need to focus on serious people. We need to be the ones who dictate what is important, and who is worthy of representing a year.

Honorable mentions: Nelson Mandela Nelson Madela, who died Dec. 5, was South Africa’s first black president and focused on dismantling a system of racial segregation.

Netflix A service that streams movies and TV shows instantly over any internet-connected device. It’s in more than a quarter of American homes.

(Photo by MCT Campus)

Boston PD The primary force behind investigating and apprehending Dzhokhar Tsarnaev and Tamerlan Tsarnaev, the alleged people behind the bombings in Boston on April 15.

ME

R C IA

L

M

st

n

M

M

are being replaced with those of finding mass produced gifts sitting underneath the faulty LEDs of a plastic Christmas tree. I’m not saying to completely give up the act of exchanging gifts, but between the opening of presents and bickering about holiday shopping deals, we should take a step back and be grateful for those around us. Make some time to spend with family rather than in department stores. Bestow kindness to friends and strangers alike. And most of all, remember the real reason why we celebrate this time of year.

IS

so-appealing Santa and his bag of gifts. This time of year is meant to remind us to be grateful for the family and friends we have around us and to give to others who are not as lucky. Instead, our minds have become preoccupied with what to buy for our families and friends, who’s going to cook what, and how we’re going to afford all of it. Advertisements bombard us every day telling us to buy this and that, all the while reinforcing the idea that happiness this time of year comes from what you purchase for others. Memories of Christmas traditions

I

John Veliz Commentary As we eagerly await the festivities and delights of the holiday season with our families by our side, and food in the oven, who could forget the most important part of this time of year? The presents. As Americans focus on the materialistic side of the holiday spirit, businesses around the country rejoice. Christmas dinners and caroling have been thrown aside for the ever-

CO

‘Tis the season to be greedy

u o n e y We Tr

PAGE

opinion7

December 2013 | hhstoday.com

Learn to love your body Jasmine Caya Commentary The teen years are when you’re most impressionable. You find yourself trapped between the desire to be unique and wanting to fit in. You cut your hair, you grow it out, you try to find the right makeup, the right clothes, the right sports. Inevitably, as a result, you compare yourself to others. And that’s when the nagging voice in your head starts. It tells you, too fat. Too thin. Too short. Too tall. Big feet. Big nose. Bad hair. No boobs. That voice is going to bother you until you want to crawl into a hole and never see another human face, unless you

stop it. When I realized the only thing size zero about me was my self-esteem level, I knew I needed a new outlook. So how to go about stopping that pesky conscience… The first step is to accept you as you are. Yes, it’s tacky, and of course, it’s easier said than done. There’s always going to be someone a little bit thinner, a little bit fitter, a little bit taller, or shorter, and there’s no changing that. If you’re still unhappy with something you can change, then do something about it! If you think you have a big nose or big feet, you probably don’t; the mind distorts the image of oneself. You have to understand that all those little flaws you think you have are what distinguishes you.

yousaid it

However, if you’re sitting on the couch watching the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show with a tub of ice cream in your lap and crying because you don’t look like Miranda Kerr, get off your butt and go for a run. Most importantly, don’t change to make others happy. There is a difference between changing for others and changing for yourself. Do it for your own happiness. Skipping a meal because you think it’s going to get you model thin is not the solution. So, love yourself. And eat healthy. Get more exercise. Or don’t. Remember that it isn’t society’s job to judge you. The next time you look at yourself in the mirror, ask yourself, is this who I want to be?

Would you prefer exams before winter break or do you like when they are now?

“Before. You don’t remember anything after.” -Yamilee Corudjo,9

{ } “Before. During break, nobody studies.”

- Jose Reyes, 11

{ } “Before, that way you can relax during the break.”

-Hamad Megahed ,10

“Before, so that I don’t forget everything I’ve learned.” -Nicole Cagnina,10 - Clayton Callison and Valean Hawkins

Illustration by John Veliz

Handling holiday households Sophia Diaz-Carraway Commentary Family members come as quickly as the holiday break does, and they bring many problems with them. Whether it’s the ranting uncle or the whiney younger cousin, cringe-worthy situations are bound to happen. Here are some ways to overcome them. There are some people who speak just to hear their own voice, and if you get sucked into their trap, you may never get back out. Investing five minutes of your time will save you hours of agony. Give them your undivided attention for a very short period of time, but you must beware of talking about yourself or asking too many questions. This will only prolong your interaction. Make a few laugh-worthy points and wait for the conversation to lull. At that point, a quick escape can be made with the excuse that you have to work on a school project or do chores you would rather blow off. Sometimes, sacrifices have to be made. Of course, avoiding them altogether is an even better alternative. The most effective method would be to lock yourself in your room, but that is not always an option. Reading a book, wearing headphones or watching

television may discourage them from trying to converse with you. If none of these hinder their attempts to talk to you, you may have to employ a new exit strategy. Go for a long walk around your neighborhood, or make plans to see a friend. Of course, this won’t be possible if you are the one visiting your relative. In that case, you will have to become more creative. If you’re desperate, chores can get you away from the family, especially if they are outside. Just offer to mow the lawn or walk the dog. If a family member has strong opinions, keep the conversations trivial. Stay away from controversial topics such as religion or politics by any means necessary. Don’t bring up any life choices you have made if you know they won’t agree with them. If they get too nosey keep your answers vague and try to change the subject. But the sad truth is, you can’t completely ignore the bothersome relatives. If you do not acknowledge them at all, they may be offended and uncomfortable feelings may arise. Say hello, compliment their shoes, give them the awkward one-armed hug and then book it to your predetermined place of refuge. However, even the most fool-proof plans are not 100 percent guaranteed and if your mission does fail, you just have to grin and bear it. These methods will help you survive holidays with relatives for years to come.

focus9

PAGE

December 2013 | hhstoday.com

hhstoday.com | December 2013

Y A D I HOL season

Jingle Jams There’s a point every year when everybody and everything seems to be noticeably happier; some would even say glowing. Among the decorations, constant shopping, cold weather and nights of drinking hot cocoa, one thing pervades: the annually-savored music we’ve all come to instantly recognize and inevitably sing along to. “My favorite holiday song has to definitely be Last Christmas. It

brings me to a happy place that reminds me of my significant other, and how he makes me feel this time of year,” says senior Lexus Jackson. Here is a list of my favorite holiday classics to ensure that no one misses out on one of the merriest time of the year. - Danny Dolford

1. Frank Sinatra- Santa Claus is Comin’ to Town (1948) 2. Perry Como and the Fontane Sisters- It’s Beginning to Look a Lot like Christmas (1951) 3. Bobby Helms- Jingle Bell Rock (1957) 4. Brenda Lee- Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree 5. Chuck Berry- Run Rudolph Run (1958) 6. Dean Martin- Let It Snow! Let It Snow! Let It Snow! (1959)

7. Bing Crosby- Winter Wonderland (1962) 8. The Beach Boys- Little Saint Nick (1963) 9. Elvis Presley- Blue Christmas (1964) 10. Paul McCartney- Wonderful Christmastime (1979) 11. Wham!- Last Christmas (1984) 12. Mariah Carey- All I Want for Christmas is You (1994)

NUMBERS BILLION

1

dollars in Christmas ornaments were imported from China in 2013

25.9

BY

the

Better than fruitcake

billion dollars in sales during December 2012

212

feet largest Christmas tree ever decorated Facts from www.census.gov

Red Velvet & Dark Chocolate Cake Pops 1. Bake two 9x9 cakes 2. Make/Buy cream cheese frosting (2-3 cups) 3. Once cake is cooled completely, crumble the cakes into the frosting and knead together. (This helps with cake-pop consistency!) 4. Once completely mixed, roll small chunks of mixture into small balls. (Size of your preference.) 5. Put the balls on a tray lined with wax/parchment paper and leave in freezer for 30 minutes. 6. Melt about 3 cups of chocolate chips (measurement depends on yield of cake balls). 7. Using lollipop sticks or wooden skewers, dip the pops into the melted chocolate, completely coating them. 8. OPTIONAL: add sprinkles of crushed peppermint to the top 9. Place in freezer for chocolate to harden. For more holiday recipes like Peppermint Pound Cake as pictured above, visit hhstoday.com. Recipes compiled by Sophia Diaz-Carraway and Josie Chappell. Photo by Josie Chappel

DIY Gifts Hot cocoa for Friends Supplies: Mason jar, 6-8 packs of Swiss Mix, Half bag of mini marshmallows, bow, and gift tag 1. Pour all packs of Hot cocoa into jar 2. Add marshmallows up to the top of the jar 3. Put a bow around the top of the jar and add a gift tag

DIY Crafty Christmas frame Supplies: a wooden frame, paint, magazines, a paint brush, and glue. 1. Paint the wooden frame 2. Cutout your favorite sayings or pictures from a magazine 3. When the paint is finished drying glue your magazine cutouts around the frame 4. Place picture in the frame and your gift is ready!

New Year’s Resolutions

- Gatherd by Holly Schroeder, Kourtney Melendi and Aleesha Mundra. To see more DIY gift ideas, visit hhstoday.com.

“I want to be able to get “I plan to start going “I don’t have New Year’s “In 2014 I’m going “My New Year’s resolution is my back handspring and resolutions ... I’ll try, but to the gym and lose to volunteer more.” eat healthier.” to do better in school. I want -Sarah Lucker, 11 weight. I I don’t want to be -Stephany to get all want to Medina, 11 pressured to have A’s and B’s.” try to be to do it. I have -Alex Harris, 11 healthier.” enough stress in -Maria Castro, 11 my life.” - Susan Hunt, media assistant

PAGE

8 focus

n build your ow

PAGE

10life

hhstoday.com | December 2013

A+ educators get awards Kenni Holland Staff Writer AVID teacher Jazmine Clarke has had big shoes to fill. She is a third-generation educator in her family, and her grandmother was the first African-American woman to receive a degree from the University of Florida. “Every one in my family is an educator,” she says “I thought I would become a motivational speaker, but never a teacher.” Clarke was elected to be given the Ida S. Baker Diversity Educator award. “It blows me that I have a support system here, its shows that my peers like me.” Ohio University alumnus teacher William Baker originally just wanted a “good steady job” when he decided to become a teacher, but didn’t know how much it would mean to him in the future. “It turned out that I loved it, it became my dream, what I was meant to do,” said the 10th year English teacher. Baker was selected as teacher of the year for this school year. Although he is very honored to have been selected, he asserts that “We [teachers] all work very hard, and all of us deserve it.” IB secretary Vivian Hernandez was this year’s recipient of the award for instructional support. Graduating from Jefferson High School, she furthered her education to Hillsborough Community College. Before working for the district she was a legal assistant in a law firm for 12 years, but after taking a temporary position in the English Language Learners (ELL) program at Gaither High School, she was recommended for the position as IB secretary. “I thought it would be hard with the new schedule,” Hernandez said. “It took me a month to get used to it, [but] my teachers are good to me.” (Photos by Kenni Holland and Katie Frost)

17 hours later: Aleesha Mundra Photo Editor I have never done anything like this in my life. I had never imagined I would wait 17 hours in the rain for a concert. It started at 3:30 a.m. when I woke up to drive the hour and a half to Orlando. I was going to the Hoodie Allen concert at the House of Blues at Downtown Disney. My friends and I wanted to be first in line because we were able to meet the artist and take photos with him. Then the wait began. Though my friends and I arrived at the venue at 6:30 a.m., Disney’s security prohibited us from entering Downtown Disney until 8 a.m. Luckily we brought lawn chairs, umbrellas, homework and food to keep us occupied during the long day that was ahead of us. We were there for one purpose and one purpose only, to snap a picture with our favorite, Hoodie Allen. When we were finally allowed to enter the venue at 8 a.m. there were already people that somehow snuck ahead of us to be first in line, despite instructions to wait outside. We feared that because we were no longer first in line, or part of the Hoodie Mob, we’d miss our opportunity to be pictured with him. Fortunately the girls we met were friendly, and said that we could be in the picture together. When going to any concert it is key to make friends with the people around you; your experience will be so much better. As the time passed it started to drizzle, I mean it could have been worse… there could have been a thunderstorm. At approximately noon, Disney security came out to tell all of the other people in line that lawn chairs were not allowed on the premise because it was a “safety hazard,” even though my

waiting for Hoodie Allen

friend called the day before to ask if they were permitted. The girls in front of us were nice enough to let us put our chairs in their car so we didn’t have to hold them the entire time. So I waited. In the rain. Just then the House of Blues staff members came and asked if we wanted “Fastpasses.” I didn’t know that I was waiting for a Disney ride. I did not wait for 8 hours just to be notified that if anyone who bought $20 of merchandise could skip me. So I walked the walk of shame as I entered the general admission line. This was not going to happen. Enter twitterverse. Somehow, through the powers of Twitter, my friends got Hoodie Allen and his management involved. There were questions as to who were first in line, as some people tried to stay over night, but the park wouldn’t let them enter. So seventeen of us formed a group to be the first in line. At about 4 p.m., we finally met Hoodie Allen. I was shocked; I didn’t know what to say, I started blurting out questions like “What’s your Chipotle order?” and “What do you want for Hanukkah?” Luckily for me, he was incredibly down to earth and seemed like a typical guy. Next thing I know, we’re in the House of Blues, and funny enough, we were in before the fast pass purchasers. I got my shirt and he signed my ticket and we took an individual picture together. Seventeen hours later. We had made it, through the rain and through the drama to meet Hoodie Allen. I was in the front row and I met him twice. I am still not over the concert that might have been one of the best experiences that I could have ever had . Warning: You will have no motivation the day after.

Hoodie Allen performs at recent Orlando show. (Photo courtesy of Laura Paloumpis)

PAGE

life11

December 2013 | hhstoday.com

Once an artist, always an artist Art teacher Peggy Watts retiring in the new year after 42 years of teaching

change over time and “become betDana Dinh ter people.” Now, after 42 years, 16 of Staff Writer those at Hillsborough, Watts is retirEvery morning, Peggy Watts’ ing. She made the decision to retire alarm goes off at exactly 5 a.m. She because her husband Ralph, also an leaves home 45 minutes later and art teacher, retired in June and they stops at Starbucks for tea or cofwanted “some quality years together” fee before entering her classroom at before they “get too old.” 6:15 and getting all of her “ducks in “You always think about retirea row.” For her entire life Watts has ment when you’re working, but it alwoken up with a “preset purpose” to ways seems so far away. Right now it her day: to teach students art. seems so surreal, almost like a dream, Even before she became an art but I’m excited to venture forth in this teacher, Watts has loved art, espenew time in my life,” Watts said. cially drawing and painting. After retiring, Watts plans to spend “I like seeing the new, creative a lot of time volunteering at her grandways that people think about art and children’s school. She has two grandexpress it on canvas or paper. I like children, Raleigh and Aiden. how we can all look at the same obShe will also be spending time ject and see it differently,” Watts said. pursuing her many creative hobbies, However, Watts’ initial career including painting, scrapbooking and plan involved a different kind of art. “I was originally going to become “Mrs. Watts taught us the basic principles [of designing children’s clothing. Watts may be getting ready to seta graphic designer, but I knew that I art] and gave us the freedom to express ourwould have to move to a bigger city selves, which is the true essence of art,” senior tle into quieter life, but her departure from Hillsborough definitely won’t be and put in more hours … I wouldn’t Aaren Zhu said. (Portrait by Aaren Zhu) quiet and unnoticed. have time for family,” Watts said. “I Junior Ferriss Thomsen said that decided to become a teacher because he’ll miss Watts, but he’s glad that she is “moving to less stressful I liked the work schedule and I’ve always loved kids.” According to Watts, teaching has been a gratifying experi- life.” According to senior Stranesha Thomas, Watts is a “wonderful ence. The best part was the friends she made and the students she taught. Her favorite part about working with students is art teacher, a great person to talk to and a caring person with a watching them overcome their struggles and frustrations, good heart.’

Psychology students get altruistic Aleesha Mundra Photo Editor IB psychology seniors plan to donate goods to underprivileged families in the coming weeks. The project was created after students learned about altruism or selflessness in the IB psychology class. The students receive service hours for helping the families; however they

do not receive either extra credit or a grade. IB psychology teacher Nicole Richardson said “I started the project when I was at Armwood, it is important for students to help someone else.” Psychology Club president Yanet Cordova has been coordinating the project. The project allows students to apply what they learn in class in the real world.

After-school eateries Josie Chappell Staff Writer To stay in competition with big corporations and chains, small businesses have to bring a lot to the table These are three examples of restaurants only minutes from the school.

The Refinery is one local restaurant. The Refinery wants to promote the community by buying fresh and in-season ingredients from local vendors. The combinations of components may seem strange the flavors always combine perfectly.4 stars. 5137 N Florida Ave, Tampa, FL 33603

From the street view of Cappy’s, one might assume it’s just another drab pizzeria, but that couldn’t be further from the truth. Large booths and arcade game classics line the walls. The menus are printed onto old record sleeves and a small motorized train circles the restaurant, creating a vintage ambiance. You can watch the pizzas being freshly made through the view of the open kitchen which adds to the ambience. Cappy’s is a great place to take a group of friends.Due to the unique atmosphere and the fact that they only sell pizzas by the whole. 5 stars. 4910 N Florida Ave Tampa, FL 33603

Mikey’s Café and Bakery Co. is a small local restaurant that offers a great casual dining experience with a variety menu options. The décor features pieces from the Seminole Heights history throughout the ’40s, ’50s and ’60s. Mikey’s is great for lunch or in between meals because it offers a variety of foods such as soups and pastries. 4 stars. 6114 N Central Ave, Tampa, FL 33604

PAGE

12entertainment

2013in rewind

hhstoday.com | December 2013

We asked 60 students to tell us their favorite music, movies, TV shows and celebrities. Students ranked the top three choices from five options. Staff members also picked out four events on the timeline.

played. I don’t think it really has a purpose anymore.” –Deloris Stevenson, 10

Beyonce’s performance at the inauguration on Jan 21

March

Feb an Kim Kardashian by names her baby North West

Macklemore’s breakthrough year starting Feb. 2

“More like a compass.” –Madison Stuart, 10

Amanda Bynes’ downward spiral starting March 21

Jennifer Lawrence’s breakthrough year, starting Feb 24

April May

June Now You See Me premieres May 31

July

Lorde’s song “Royals” is released on March “Annoying. 8 Over-

Despicable Me 2 premieres on July 3

Justin Bieber says he hopes Anne Frank would’ve been a fan

Miley Cyrus’’ performancee at the VMAs on Aug. 25

Aug

Sept

Catc Catching Fire premier mieres on Nov 22 “I loved Catching Fire. Jennifer Lawrence made the whole movie.” – Sarah Harwell, 9

Walking Dead premiere on Oct. 13

Nov

Breaking Bad finale aires on Sept. 29

Oct All photos via Creative Commons

PAGE

entertainment13 December 2013 | hhstoday.com

The Hobbit: Desolation of Smaug is fiery hot Daniel Dolford Entertainment Editor The Lonely Mountain now has a tiny change in scenery, thanks to a small and unlikely burglar. “The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug” is the second installment in a developing trilogy of adventure, violence and a little contribution of wit from the series’ protagonist, Bilbo Baggins. For those who are unfamiliar with the series, “The Hobbit” is an epic tale which precedes the Lord of the Rings trilogy by about 60 years. It beautifully details the story of an introverted hobbit named Bilbo Baggins, who accompanies 13 dwarves and

the powerful wizard Gandalf as they trek forward to the dwarves’ former great kingdom, now inhabited by a very powerful and smart dragon named Smaug, with the intention to steal back their treasure and home. The latest installment of the movie adaptation was released on Dec. 13. It details the company’s arrival and descent into the Lonely Mountain, where Smaug dwells. My expectations for this film were set extremely high, based on the quality and success of the first film in the series (“The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey”) and partially due to my status as a dedicated fanboy of both Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit trilogies. I was excited to see the film portrayal of some of my favorite scenes from the original text, such as the navigation of the black forest in Mirkwood, the escape from the dungeons of the wood elves and the famous introduction of the film’s titular character, Smaug. This film is too good to wait for the DVD release. Everyone should take a journey for themselves next week to the nearest movie theater.. Graphic by John Veliz

Frozen to my seat Jose Leon Movie Review Disney’s “Frozen” is being called “The Biggest Thing Since ‘The Lion King.’” A clear step above its Disney princess movie predecessor, “Tangled,” it pushes the limits in animation and storytelling. The story, based off of Hans Christian Anderson’s “The Snow Queen,” is about the young princess Elsa who can create ice and snow. When she was young, Elsa accidentally freezes her sister Anna and their parents, the king and queen. She hires trolls to save Anna and erase her memories of Elsa. The King and Queen die at sea, and Elsa becomes ruler. And then all the problems ensue. It follows the basic Disney format, though it is distinguished by its mature themes of sisterhood and self-confidence. It resembles past films with its lightheartedness and scattered musical numbers, preserving the innocent tone that Disney is so well known for known for. “Frozen” is an instant classic that warms the heart of all viewers.

It’s Britney, sadly

Sarvika Bommakanti Album Review “Britney Jean,” an old nickname from a friend, now adorns Britney Spears’ newest album cover as the title. It is supposed to be a personal album for fans to connect with; however, the reality of the album comes nowhere close to the expectations that were set before the release. “Britney Jean” in no way represents the artist that once encompassed the idea of extravagant, unique and enticing pop music. The executive p r o d u c e r, will.i.am, seems to have incorporated too much of himself into Britney’s work. Most of the beats in her songs are nearly identical to those in his latest album, “#willpower.” This LP is the least personal an artist can get in the music industry. The melody and rhythm overpower her voice, and the lyrics are senseless. The only songs with any substance are “Brightest Morning Star” and “Now That I Found You,” which are only featured as bonus tracks. “Britney Jean” is not representative of the Britney Spears we used to know and love. It can never be compared to “In the Zone,” “Circus” or any other classic Britney albums.

A Day to Remember rocks out during their set at 97x’s Next Big Thing. (Photo by Shelby Shoup)

Next Big Thing in fests Shelby Shoup Concert Review Screeching guitar riffs scraping at my eardrums. My ribs bruised from of moshing. The stench of strangers’ sweat and marijuana filling the air and clouding my nose. My mental image of what 97x’s Next Big Thing concert would be like was somewhat terrifying. As a lover of acoustic music, when I saw that this year’s lineup included Sleeping with Sirens, A Day to Remember and Thirty Seconds to Mars, I was not excited. Besides my extreme loathing for hardcore music, I questioned the bands’ overall place in the concert. Most of them are a few years old, with the crowned veteran being the 15-year-old band Thirty Seconds to Mars. Basically, they’re not exactly the “next big thing.” However, my loyalties to 97x lured me to Vinoy Park for the festival for the second year in a row. By the time the last chord had been strummed and the lights began to dim, my perspective was totally different. Each of the bands that I had witnessed had given their all during their sets. Dirty Heads soothed the ears and soul with their distinct rhythmic reggae rap. A Day to Remember went all out, the climax of their performance when frontman Jeremy McKinnon climbed inside of a giant inflatable hamster ball, and ran through the sea of hands below him. Although the metalcore music that dominated the concert isn’t quite my favorite genre, it got people pumped. The moshing that I had once viewed as a brutish and uncivilized act was just a commonality of the concert, no different than singing or dancing. And the sweat served to tell me that the headliners had done their job of performing right. Although some of the bands seemed outdated, they exceeded my expectations. The concert allowed me to expand upon my musical horizons, and reminded me that I should not judge a book by it’s cover. Overall, 97x NBT 2013 was an eye-opening and truly spectacular experience.

PAGE

14 sports

hhstoday.com | December 2013

Athletes shine in out-of-school sports David Blanchard Staff Writer

There is a wide range of students on campus that partake in Hillsborough sports. However, many students participate in off-campus sports that often go unnoticed. One of those students, senior Christopher Reigel, has been playing hockey since he was 6. “I had previously played soccer but I was having hip problems so I took time off,” Reigel said. When discussing hockey with a friend, “my father came in and told us that if we were interested, we could try the sport at a local rink that his friend owned.” Reigel faces challenges with playing a traditionally Northern sport in Florida. “There are only six rinks that the local teams use often,” Reigel said. “With all the different age and skill levels of all the local teams, plus figure skaters and the general public trying to get time on the ice, ice time is hard to come by.”

Senior Samantha Paz is a speed skater, having skated now for “three or four years,” with Team Odyssey. “I started skating because my dad’s been in the sport since he was little. He always made it look like so much fun and I just really wanted to be a part of it.” Both Paz and Reigel face the difficult task of balancing these sports with school. Paz said she trains “three times a week, usually a very vigorous workout, and have practice three times a week.” Reigel said that his “coaches and directors are mindful of our schedules and work with us the best they can.” Senior Sarah Martinage competes in “the Equestrian competitions in the Equitation and High Jumper Divisions.” Martinage said it is just as difficult “sacrificing a normal teenage life to commit fully to horses,” as compared to managing it with IB work. “I ride every day and during show season I spend almost every weekend at a horse show.” Still, preparation time is key to all three. “I have based my entire philosophy of riding from a quote [famous trainer] George Morris said to all of the Olympians: ‘Practice does not make perfect; only perfect practice makes perfect,”’ Martinage said. “The thing I most prepare for is my mental game. I believe if you don’t have it together in your head you can’t put it together on the floor,” Paz said. For Reigel, he said “there is a lot of stuff that you

have to do to prepare to play hockey.” One of the things he must do is put on a lot of equipment, and it has to be right. “If one thing is wrong with your gear, you’re going to feel it.” Through all the work, it remains worth it for the three. “Almost 12 years of this has given me a lot of great memories,” Reigel said. “By grabbing a little bit of mane, the reins and faith, I know that only the sky’s the limit,” Martinage said. Preparation and hard work are key to succeeding for junior speed skater Sam Paz and senior equestrian jumper Sarah Martinage. (Photos courtesy of Paz and Martinage)

Wrestling team defeats 6 schools at home tournament

At the one home tournament of the year, senior Jeremy Gardner grapples with a Bloomingdale wrestler. Hillsborough won the tournament, defeating all six teams. (Photo by Hannah Baade)

Samantha Votzke Sports Editor Streaks of sweat mark the mat as two wrestlers struggle to pin each other on their backs and win the match. They move quickly, each trying to anticipate the move of the other in an effort to counter-move, grabbing ankles and wrists in a variety of contortions. “Wrestling is all about improvising,” said junior Luis Clough. “It’s all about how much you know and how well you can use it.” Moves and techniques are shouted from the sidelines by the coaches of the wrestlers, complete

with physical demonstration. “You have to just nod, and show Coach you understand,” said junior Sergio Ledo. Each wrestler begins the match with a game plan, according to the team, wand the rest is attempting to make that game plan work. “You have to use fundamental techniques,” Clough said. “If your technique gets taken away, you’re going to get beaten.” This year so far, the wrestling team has only been defeated by Durant and rival Riverview, and aims to go undefeated for the rest of the season, making it to states. Last year the team went unranked at the end of the

season, although one wrestler nearly made No. 1 in the state, only failing to make weight at Regionals. On Saturday, Nov. 7, Hillsborough hosted a tournament against Blake, Jefferson, King, Bloomingdale and Tampa Bay Tech. The day of the tournament, sophomore Marcus Heyder was confident of the team’s abilities. “These other teams are weaksauce,” Heyder said. Hillsborough won the tournament, scoring at least 59 overall points above each opponent.

PAGE

sports15

December 2013 | hhstoday.com

Improper benefits plague college athletics David Blanchard Commentary College athletes are praised for their true love and passion for their game. They don’t get paid like professionals do, or at least they shouldn’t be. Some play to reach professional status; others play just because they want to. But they all love the game. However, should some of these same athletes even be out on the field? Whether with legal or academic issues, there are players going out on the field every gameday that simply don’t belong there. Some student athletes are getting away with acts that would lead to punishment for a regular student. This problem is caused by the impact the players have on the team they play for. Last year’s college football season concluded with Alabama defeating Notre Dame 42-14. More than the game, however, was a man who was playing in it. We do not know his name, and we probably never will, but we do know that a player on Notre Dame’s team was accused of sexual assault in 2010. The accuser, Lizzy Seeberg, reported the apparent assault to the police the day after, but charges were never filed. She received threatening text messages from a friend of the player that told her not to “do anything you would regret” and that “messing with Notre Dame football is a bad idea,” according to cbssports.com. Ten days after the alleged assault, Seeberg committed suicide. Following the Jameis Winston story, in which he was accused of rape, a Florida State professor wrote a letter to deadspin. com in which he discusses the same “culture” that plagues Tallahasse. In other cases, a student cornered a female professor because she reported his poor behavior and another disappeared from a class roster before he failed. Both of these students remained on the team. This isn’t a new problem, but it is one that needs to be corrected before it becomes unfixable.

How to: Shoot a free throw

Steven Maurice, a junior member of the varsity basketball team, teaches you how to make a free throw. Step two: Dribble three times. Make sure that after the last dribble you have a good grip on the ball.

Step one: Make sure you are square to the free throw line. Place the center of your body in a line with the hoop.

Step four: Shoot the ball, snapping the wrist of your dominant hand in the process. Make sure you put arch into the shot. After shooting, hold your final position until the ball goes into the hoop.

Step three: Slowly raise the ball using both hands to face level. Your non-dominant hand should be on the side of the basketball.

Boys basketball beats Leto 48-45

Going for a two-pointer, junior Bruce Nowell leaps to avoid Leto’s defense. Nowell made the shot, and the game continued in a furor of action. Hillsborough won with a slim margin, beating Leto 48-45. (Photo by Ivy Bennett-Ford)

PAGE

16 sports

hhstoday.com | December 2013

For some, it’s all in the family

Winter Sports

Updates

Boys Soccer 5-4-1

Girls Soccer 6-4

Boys Varsity Basketball 3-5

Boys JV Basketball 1-1

Girls Varsity Basketball 8-4

Wrestling 23-2

A word from a basketball player

“

Above left: As a Newsome player kicks the ball down the field, junior Gina Pamplona runs and tries to steal the ball away to help the Terriers score. Above right: To keep Newsome from scoring, sophomore Cassandra Cooper dribbles the ball down the field to Wolves territory to score. (Photos by Katie Frost). the assistant coach. “Anyone would rather their education major from the University of Tampa, dad not be coaching, but it doesn’t really make a adding to his coaching credentials. difference to me.” “It’s really nice when we can discuss the At age 6, Cooper tried soccer, and has been games in the car on the way home. It’s in these playing ever since. She has even competed in a small moments that I really bond with my tournament in the Turks and Caicos Islands. daughter,” said Cooper of the moments shared “It was fantastic to be able to play teams from between him and his daughter. “He teaches me to have a better outlook on all over the world,” said Cooper of her once in a life and telling me to work harder at things to lifetime experience. This is Cooper’s first year as a coach, but he have a better outcome,” Pamplona said of her is no stranger to the soccer or sports in general. grandfather’s words of wisdom. “All the years of coaching with my son and “I have watched at least 600 of [Cassandra’s] competitive soccer games,” said Cooper of now coaching my granddaughter, I just love it learning the game well enough to help out his and wouldn’t trade it for anything,” Pamplona daughter’s team. Cooper also has a physical said.

19 years, two countries, one sport

“

We want to win districts and possibly go from there, but the main goal right now is winning districts. Our toughest game coming up right now would be Armwood next week I think. We’ve been struggling a lot, but I do think we have a chance to do it because the only real team that’s gonna be our competition in our district right now is Armwood. So, if we beat Armwood we’ll be fine.

Katie Frost Photo Editor Some students complain that their parents are too involved in their social life or extracurricular activities, but for Gina Pamplona and Cassandra Cooper both their grandfather and father coach the girls’ soccer team this year. Pamplona, a junior, has been playing soccer since she was 4, when she started at HC United. Her soccer roots run deep, dating all the way back to her grandfather, Ted Pamplona. “He was some sort of national champion and almost went to England to play,” Pamplona said of her grandfather’s notable soccer background. Not only was he a national champion, but he also coached his son, Gina’s father, while he was at Hillsborough. “I coached [my son] for three years: 1989, 90, and 92. That year he was a Parade All-American,” Pamplona said of coaching his son, who was one of the best high school soccer players in the country. Before becoming head coach of the girls’ team last year, Pamplona was a youth soccer coach for 28 years, giving him a lifetime of experience to guide his coaching. “He started out by giving us tips here and there, but then he became our head coach after [Maria Gonzalez] left,” said Pamplona of her grandfather’s coaching beginnings. With any sport, pressure and stress tend to sneak up periodically, but for Pamplona it’s a constant worry. “I don’t want the other girls to see it as nepotism,” she said of walking the fine line between being the coach’s granddaughter and just another one of the girls. Cooper, however, doesn’t get bothered by the fact that her dad, Christopher Cooper, is

-Khoi Wilson, girls varsity basketball player

Daniel Hamilton Sports Editor Jeanrony Jeanbaptiste, a senior, beat the Florida High School Athletic Association age limit of 19 years nine months by five months. He currently plays as the starting center midfielder on the Jeanrony Jeanbaptiste, left, attempts varsity boys soccer team. to steal the ball during a soccer game Jeanbaptiste, born on Aug. 6, against King (Photo by Ben Muschol)

1994, moved from Haiti to the United States at 15, and everything changed: his school, his lifestyle and his favorite sport, soccer. “Everything is different.” Jeanbaptiste said, “[Here,] you get free school. In Haiti you have to pay for school, but you get free lunch. If you didn’t do your homework in Haiti, your teacher

beat you.” Jeanbaptiste has played soccer for as long as he can remember, starting in Haiti. “It’s a lot more competitive in Haiti. Soccer is the No. 1 sport in our lives. We don’t play around with soccer. We play like we mean it.” To read the full story, go to www.HHSToday.com