Red & Black, March 2020

r& b

Hillsborough High School | HHSToday.com 5000 N. Central Avenue | Tampa, Florida 33603 March 2020 | Volume 121, Issue 5

CAUTION

Coronavirus causes Hillsborough County confusion p. 2 illustration by marin fehl

Military recruiters on high school campuses | p. 4

HCPS is implementing new sex ed curriculum | p. 5

Trump doesn’t belong in a post-Parasite world | p. 14

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NEWS

March 2020

RED&BLACK

hhstoday.com

VOLUME 121, ISSUE 5

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Marin Fehl WEB EDITOR Jaden Shemesh PAGE EDITORS Alex Croft Javier Cuevas Asher Montgomery Reema Patel Adrianna Rodriguez Kylie Smith Carolina Tortorelli STAFF WRITERS Atiya Anderson Micah Arbelo Kaitlyn Bradley Johnathan Doan Patrick McCurdy Edilawit Seyoum Rahul Yalamanchili Meredith Yen ADVISER Joe Humphrey, MJE PRINCIPAL Gary Brady ABOUT Content decisions are made by student editors MEMBERSHIP Red & Black belongs to the Florida, National and Columbia Scholastic press associations AWARDS 2019-2020 FSPA All-Florida 2018-2019 NSPA Pacemaker Finalist 2018-2019 NSPA First Class 2018-2019 CSPA Gold Medalist Bylined COLUMNS represent the viewpoints of their authors We welcome your LETTERS, which may be edited for brevity and clarity.

Submit via email, deliver to Room 506 or mail to Red & Black, 5000 N. Central Ave, Tampa, Florida 33603.

LEFT Lysol wipes and hand sanitizer bottles are being provided for faculty members in Room 112. RIGHT A microscopic image of the first U.S. case of COVID-19. INSET A CDC illustration of the “ultrastructural morphology exhibited by coronaviruses.” | photos and illustration by jaden shemesh and the CDC

Hillsborough County schools respond to coronavirus Amid crumbling global markets and travel bans, countries are attempting to restrict the spread of COVID-19. According to The New York Times, there are currently 500 confirmed coronavirus cases in the U.S., 22 of which are confirmed deaths. The virus has quickly spread to Florida where there are 12 positive cases. Since the discovery of two confirmed cases of the coronavirus in the Tampa Bay area last week, Hillsborough County schools have taken several preventative measures.

What are schools doing?

Hand sanitizer dispensers are currently being installed in school buses, every school’s main entrance and every school’s cafeteria. According to a countywide memo from Acting Chief of Schools Shaylia McRae, “Schools are now able to order Lysol wipes from Staples with internal school funds,” McRae said. In addition, soap and paper towel supplies will be monitored more frequently. School clinics are to designate a separate room for sick students and sick absences are considered excused.

Disease prevention posters reminding students of sanitary habits began being posted on Monday March 2, according to the Tampa Bay Times.

who said it?

Announcements regarding these habits will also be spread throughout every school. The videos and announcements encourage students to “wash hands often for at least 20 seconds, cough or sneeze into your elbow or sleeve and stay home if you’re sick,” according to a new HCPS webpage.

The district has encouraged teachers to update Edsby with lesson plans and assignments more frequently so that students can do work from home, if need be.

What if someone in school contracts the virus?

“There is currently no evidence that coronavirus is in any of our schools,” the webpage said.

“The Florida Department of Health is not recommending closures or deep cleaning for schools. We work very closely with the health department and always implement their recommendations.”

According to the same webpage, if a student or faculty member tests positive for the virus the following steps may be enacted: -- Isolate specific students or groups within a school and restrict large gatherings.

-- Close the school as a last resort measure.

-- Send surveys into the surrounding commu-

nity to determine relatives and others who could be infected.

-- Submit to the leadership of the Florida Department of Health, which would direct a larger response.

Despite these measures, the county is still not prepared for a full outbreak. According to the Tampa Bay Times, the district is not as far along in planning as others in Florida. “We really want to get this right,” Hillsborough County schools acting superintendent Addison Davis said.

What about my spring break travel plans?

According to HCPS, “If you travel to a place where coronavirus transmission is happening and then you develop symptoms, you will be isolated by the Florida Department of Health for at least two weeks.”

Symptoms can include fever, shortness of breath and a cough. If you believe that you have contracted the coronavirus, please contact the Florida Department of Health Office in Hillsborough County at (813) 307-8000. compiled by jaden shemesh

How do you feel about the county’s response to the spread of the coronavirus?

Phone: (813) 276-5620 Email: hhstoday@gmail.com Twitter: @HHSTodayOnline Instagram: @HHSToday Visit us online at HHSTODAY.COM CAROLYNA SERENA, 9

“I guess it [is] a good measure but they should be more strict with sanitizing things, especially for the kids.”

“The [county] needs to do more. A lot of people here [think] they have the coronavirus.”

SHARHONDA JOHNSON, 11

HIRSH KABARIA, 12

“I don’t see any cause for concern at the current moment, [but] we have to wait a few more weeks.” compiled by jaden shemesh

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March 2020

hhstoday.com Cavaliere, right, and his friend, senior Shawn Gist, listen to music together at lunch. “We’ve been friends since 10th grade,” Gist said, “I always try to motivate him to get his work done and follow his dreams.” | photo by asher montgomery

Senior back on track after a rough start For three years, senior Charles Cavaliere skipped school on a daily basis. He slept in late.

He didn’t want to go to class. He missed 40 percent of his junior year. When he was at school, he fooled around in class, wanting to be a class clown.

It was the thought of disappointment that turned him in his tracks. When his family learned that he wasn’t on the path to graduation, that’s when he knew he needed to change. “I felt like I let family members and people I loved down, so I decided to change the way I was doing things,” he said.

Far From Ready

Neither of his parents graduated high school.

His dad is a truck driver that he’s not close with and his mom, who does not work.

He didn’t want to go down the same path as them.

Last summer, between his junior and senior year, his guidance counselor made his case

sound hopeless. Cavaliere had missed too much and he wouldn’t be able to make it up.

Then, Kara Kotarsky arrived at Hillsborough.

She became a guidance counselor for students with last names at the top of the alphabet. One of her students was Cavaliere, who was far from the path to graduate.

“He was an underachiever,” Kotarsky said.

“He’s very intelligent, but when you lack motivation and there’s no one to hold you accountable it’s easy to ask ‘well what am I doing here?’”

Finding a Mentor

Over the course of the school year, Kotarsky and Cavaliere developed a close relationship.

“He’s my adopted son,” she joked. “I feel like I’ve played an intricate role in developing his drive and want to be successful and that built a relationship that’s deeper than being a guidance counselor.”

Cavaliere feels the same.

“She’s like my best friend,” he said. “She really

made me put the work in and has helped me overcome the obstacles in order to graduate.”

Kotarsky knows that Cavaliere is an intelligent student. She said however that his problems with school come from having a lack of accountability.

“I think he’s just had no one to hold him accountable for his actions,” she said. “There’s no one saying no or asking what can I do to be helpful.”

Kotarsky has met and helped a number of students in similar positions as Cavaliere. There’s several advantages to graduating, which is why Kotarsky wants students to make it there.

“This diploma opens other avenues for life, it’s your paycheck, it’s a piece of paper you can walk all over,” she said. Another importance in graduating according to Kotarsky is saying you’ve completed something.

It wasn’t just handed to you, it had to be worked for.

Comparing HCPS graduation costs Most school across the county charge seniors a fee for the combined cost of graduation, including ordering a cap and gown and a walking fee to pay for the venue and other costs. Hillsborough’s graduation fee of $79.95 and includes a walking fee of $50 which students pay even if they are not ordering a cap and gown. (Note: Financial assistance is available if necessary). Some schools, however, only offer a flat fee, meaning that the same amount must be paid to attend graduation regardless if a student already owns a cap and gown. For questions related to Hillsborough’s graduation, see Mrs. Fiore in Room 535. story by asher montgomery graphic by reema patel

$77

$79.95

Putting in Work

Since his senior year started, Cavaliere has been doing everything he can to get back on track. This includes participating in credit recovery, retaking classes, showing up to school every day and keeping his grades up. After high school, Cavaliere says he might join the military for the benefits like health care, despite not having much interest in it. Outside of school, he plays video games and basketball and practices photography.

This year, Cavaliere finds that he’s more mature and willing to put in effort because of his new found motivation. He admits that doing the work he needs to graduate isn’t difficult. “I go to class, do my work and get what I need to get done,” he said. “It’s easy, I wish I would have started freshman year.” story by asher montgomery

$82.09

$87

$68.96 $60

Chamberlain

Bloomingdale

Strawberry Crest

Hillsborough

Alonso

Jefferson

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NEWS

March 2020

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Recruiters market military on campus On Feb. 19, junior Arieana Deleon Alvarez lifted her right hand and repeated the National Guard oath, becoming the third student to be in the National Guard this year, following seniors Relisha Perry and Johnathan Doan.

The National Guard provides assistance during domestic emergencies.

The process to joining was long and frustrating according to Alvarez, especially the medical procedures. It involved a lot of tests and physicals. They took blood and urine samples.

Afterwards, officials reviewed the information to make sure everything was correct and that they are fit for the military, not being obese or having an underlying condition. They gave clarification about the program and Alvarez signed paperwork. Lastly, they went over when she will leave for basic training and that her job as a chaplain’s assistant would entail organizing religious activities. After all of that, she could swear in.

“I don’t think it fully kicked in like, ‘wow I just signed my life away,’ but I was definitely excited,” she said. She was nervous she wasn’t going to pass her medical exam out of anxiety, and she had been waiting to be sworn in since 5 that morning (she wasn’t sworn in until 4 p.m.). “[After] the whole process, it was like ‘wow, I finally did it,’ so I was very excited.”

She learned about the benefits of the military at a presentation her sophomore year. Her main reason for joining is that the program will pay for her college. 100 percent of her bachelor’s degree and 50 percent of her master’s degree will be covered by the National Guard. “I want to be a labor delivery nurse, so college is essential,” she said. “I thought ‘this is the perfect chance for me to be able to get that paid for.”

Alvarez’s contract lasts for six years. During the course of those six years, she must go to basic training one weekend a month and for two weeks over the summer. The National Guard’s purpose is to assist with local and domestic emergencies, so if there is an emergency nearby, she may be required to assist. Although very

say, ‘here is an option if you’re not looking to go to university, the military is an option.’” she said.

Senior Army Instructor, Lt. Col. Demetrius Green sees the benefits enlisting in the military out of high school has, pointing out that the scholarships offered allow students to pursue a career without having to pay for college.

Approached through schools However, he is vigilant with the recruiters, She learned about the National Guard in her making sure either he or Munoz is in the room sophomore year from a recruiter. She said she with a student and a recruiter. “We make sure thought about it, but she never acted on it until the students aren’t being lied to,” he said. “I am she turned 17 when she decided that joining is very quick to say, ‘nope, he’s lying.’ Green’s standwhat she would have to do. She was really motipoint is that regardless of service, in JROTC they vated to go for it when the recruiter came back represent him, so he makes sure he is part of the in at the beginrecruiting process, ning of the school not allowing them to year. The recruit“You have to make an eight-year give “his Army” a bad er, Sgt. Worthy, commitment to the military. If for name. would become an They also attempt some reason, you do not get an important part of to provide a balthe registration honorable discharge, you lose the ance to the types of Alvarez went college financial aid benefit as well recruitment presented through to join to JROTC students. as other veteran’s benefits.” the National Guard, coming - KATE CONNELL, DIRECTOR OF Green brings in recruiters from USF in every week to TRUTH IN RECUITMENT and HCC as well. “We check on her. know the military Worthy isn’t for everybody recruits for the National Guard at seven schools and university isn’t for everybody.” in the area. She said in her job as a recruiter, she unlikely, she says there is a chance she could be deployed overseas. “Say god forbid a war broke out and the army needs extra backup they could deploy me there,” she said. “But the National Guards main purpose is, let’s say a hurricane hit Miami, then they’d send me to Miami to assist.”

presents the information and helps interested students, she doesn’t push students to join. Although she doesn’t have the exact numbers, she said that most students likely don’t go on the join the military after their contract ends because most students join for the college benefits.

“I wish everyone would join,” she said.

“There’s a lot to be gained as a young person from helping your community.” Alongside the payments, it’s a win-win she said.

Worthy recruits through the JROTC program at Hillsborough, as do many high school military recruiters. According to 1st Sgt. Ana Munoz, the JROTC Army instructor, recruiters come to Hillsborough at least once a month. “They just

Why us?

Recent articles from Teen Vogue and The New York Times suggest that the military is targeting high schoolers for recruitment more than ever, especially poor students, as enlistment rates drop. The Poverty Draft, a term coined in the 1980s, is the idea that enlistments were made up of poor young people, especially those of color.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, in 2006, 6.7 percent of non-Hispanic black students enlisted in the military soon after high school, compared to 3.9 percent of non-Hispanic white students and 4.5 percent of Hispanic students.

Some oppose military recruitment in high schools. The organization Truth in Recruitment

aims to provide alternative information to what military recruiters provide so students can make balanced choices. According to the director of the organization, Kate Connell, college debt is one of the biggest reasons students will join the military, but the financial aid from the military isn’t free. “You have to make an eight-year commitment to the military,” she said. “If for some reason, you do not get an honorable discharge, you lose the college financial aid benefit as well as other veteran’s benefits.” Truth in Recruitment aims to make sure students are prepared to make big life decisions and help them consider all other options.

In a Truth in Recruitment brochure titled “What You Should Know Before Joining the Military,” issues with joining the military are outlined. “If you can’t finish your first enlistment term, you could lose all or part of the education and any other benefits you were promised and be forced to pay back any ‘bonus’ you received,” the brochure reads. “Historically, about onethird of all new recruits do not finish their first term.”

According to Worthy, less than 2 percent of high school students go on to enlist in the military once they graduate. Both Worthy and Connell agree that students generally enlist to pay for college.

Studying as a student full time while dedicating one weekend every month for the next six years, Alvarez will enjoy the benefits of little to no college debt if she follows through. She would recommended join the National Guard to students who are dedicated and willing to go through the hardships of being in the military.

“Like my colonel says, the military isn’t for everyone,” she said. “You have to be very dedicated and be really sure you’re ready to go through with this, because even though it’s just one weekend a month, you’re are still in the military and you need to be the example and have that conduct of a military personnel.” story by asher montgomery

By the numbers: the military on Hillsborough’s campus 11

On average, 16 Hillsborough students join the military after graduating.

3 HHS students are currently enlisted in in the National Guard.

About 136,000 of the 33.4 million Americans aged 17-24 are in prime condition for enlistment.

graphic by jaden shemesh sources: JROTC, GoArmy.com

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March 2020

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HCPS implements new sex ed initiative Hillsborough County is expanding sex education in schools across the district. Sexual Health Education has been included in Health Opportunities through Physical Education (HOPE) course, however the new content will support three areas: sex education, sexual health services and a safe support environment in order to equip students with the knowledge they need to make healthy decisions.

A purpose of the new curriculum, according to Ashlee Cappucci, supervisor for K-12 physical education, health education and dance in Hillsborough County, is to make sure that the sex ed curriculum is consistent for all schools.

In the past, for the most part, it was up to the teachers to decide what would be taught, meaning what was being taught at one school could be different from what was taught at another.

The implementation will start with 13 schools: Alonso, King, Tampa Bay Technical, Jefferson and South County Career high schools and eighth graders at Buchanan, Ferrell, Franklin, Madison, Memorial, Pierce, Young and Woodson. The district chose the schools using the ZIP codes around the school, seeing which areas had the highest rates of STDs and STIs. According to Cappucci, the program is on Year 2 of five of the grant. The 13 schools will serve as a sort of pilot for the new curriculum. They will then receive feedback from parents, community, teachers and students, evaluate the success of the program, and fix anything necessary before proceeding to

include the curriculum in the middle schools and high schools in Hillsborough County.

For the time being, sex ed will continue to be taught to high schoolers in HOPE, a course required for graduation. Students in programs that do not require HOPE will continue to not have a sex ed for the time being.

The new curriculum will be a revision to the Sexual Health Curriculum found in HOPE classes, which is based off the Health Education Curriculum Analysis Tool (HECAT) provided by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

The purpose of the partnership with the CDC is to provide students with an evidence-based approach to help prevent HIV, STDs and unintended pregnancy in teenagers.

Abstinence has always been and will continue to be a strong theme in the new sex ed curriculum, district spokeswoman Tanya Arja told the Tampa Bay Times.

“That can be a religious choice,” said senior Angelys Nunez about teaching abstinence. “ But it shouldn’t be pushed on other people.”

According to the Times, recent risk behavior studies show more than a third of high school students in Hillsborough and throughout Florida have had sexual intercourse while only 58 percent used condoms in their last encounter.

Studies by the CDC give strong evidence supporting the effectiveness of sex ed, showing that information about contraception and abstinence

Resources available at women’s health clinics While locations such as Planned Parenthood are sometimes just labeled as abortion providers, these clinics provide other benefits and services. Anything from regular check-ups to education for everyone on what safe sex means, beyond just abstinence. The services they provide are based on what you need as an individual considering your situation and age. Services of a Planned Parenthood include: 1. They can get you set up on the right kind of birth control for you and get you refills if the pill is the route you choose.

2. They offer exams and check-ups to prevent the spread of cancers or detect them early on.

3. They offer the testing and treatments for sexually transmitted diseases.

4. Planned Parenthood also provides pregnancy testing, pre- natal care and counseling about options available to you.

5. The closest Planned Parenthood to Hillsborough is located at 8068 N. 56th St, and there are also other clinics scattered around Tampa. compiled by kylie smith graphics by alex croft Birth Control

help young people delay sex and avoid STDs and unwanted pregnancies when they do.

Some forms of sex ed, however, such as those promoting abstinence until marriage for instance while withholding information about contraceptive methods does stop or even delay sex. Moreover, abstinence-only-until-marriage programs can actually place young people at increased risk of pregnancy and STIs, according to The Journal of Adolescence Health in 2016.

Some students have ideas about what they believe should be added to the curriculum. “They should teach about peer pressure,” Nunez said. “A lot of people are pressured into having sex. They should teach how to say no and how to recognize a situation where they may be in trouble.”

Freshmen Shellee Nelson and Neyrelis Olivares suggest more curriculum aimed at preventing STDs. “They should teach how to ask your partner if they have STDs and how to get tested,” Olivares said.

In order to combat controversy among the more conservative parts of the district and those that support sex ed in schools, Cappucci said they were able to meet in the middle on ideas for the curriculum.

“Sex ed sometimes is seen as taboo,” Cappucci said. “If we’re able to teach students to make healthy decisions for themselves it will prepare them for life.”

story and photos by asher montgomery Jacob Viera (9), Kiarah Hogue (9) , Perla Hernandez (10) and Richard Rivero (9) complete HOPE work.

By the numbers: sexual assault, STDs and teen pregnancy 1/5 women and 1/71 men will be raped at some point in their lives 1/3 women and 1/6 experienced some form of contact sexual violence in their lifetime 52.4% of male victims report being raped by an acquaintance and 15.1% by a stranger 91% of victims of rape and sexual assault are female, and nine percent are male

Source: The National Sexual Violence Resource Center

STD cases have been surging for 5 years straight, with 2018 reaching the all-time high.

In the Centers for Disease Control’s 2018 statistics report:

1.8 million cases of Chlamydia reported – 19% rate increase since 2014 583,405 cases of Gonorrhea reported 63% rate increase since 2014

115,045 cases of Syphilis reported- 71% rate increase of infectious syphilis since 2014 Source: Centers for Disease Control

In 2017, the teen pregnancy was recorded at an all-time low, with a birth rate of 18.8 pregnancies per 1,000 women between the ages of 15-19 This was a drop of 7% from 2016 “Although reasons for the declines are not totally clear, evidence . suggests these declines are due to more teens abstaining from sexual activity, and more teens who are sexually active using birth control than in previous years.” CDC Source: Centers for Disease Control

infographic by john doan

6 March 2020

NEWS

Springing into theater’s ‘Emergency Musical’

TOP The drama students will be putting on a spring musical from March 24-26 at 7:00 p.m in the auditorium. The musical will be a parody of Disney’s High School Musical called Emergency Musical. Freshman Jamie Lohn has been singing since she was 8 years old. In one of the scenes, she has to free-fall for one of the scenes. “I felt comfortable, safe and really good knowing my friends have my back, literally.” | photos by meredith yen LEFT Alumna Tani Pittard (2015) teaches students choreography for the musical. This spring, she will graduate from USF with a degree of theater performance. “This is the first time I’m choreographing teenagers and it’s been a lot of fun playing choreographer.”

RIGHT Freshman Anthony Luis has been singing for a long time but never for a show or play. Luis usually sings for himself or friends. “Personally, I just want people to be excited about the music and everyone’s songs because they are all great.” Purchase tickets for $5 in advance to hear him sing.

hhstoday.com

Documenting HHS history The Tampa History Center will host an exhibit on Hillsborough High School since its founding in 1882 To share its 138 years of history and bring together all the classes that attended Hillsborough, there will be an exhibit at the Tampa History Center all about the school, starting April 4 through July.

This upcoming community exhibit has been on the waiting list for three years and now the HHS Alumni Association is finally able to display Hillsborough High School’s history in a special community case gallery.

Rex Gordon, an alumnus and the historian in charge says that since the exhibit was approved, the association has been planning and working on it since last year. “We want to promote HHS history and show the changes through its history, especially because students today are better with diversity in race, age, generation and religion,” Gordon said.

The showcase includes a timeline from 1882 to 2010 with 16 panels for the decades, which will have a picture of the school during that decade long with a brief description of student life during that period.

There will also be artifacts associated with sports teams, JROTC and the Red & Black. Next to the timeline there will be a big terrier statue made by Gordon that is meant to unite all generations of students. In a different room, there will be a running slideshow that is more informative. Later, Tampa City Councilman Guido Maniscalco, alumni president and

a guest speaker from the history center will give a speech.

Tickets bought at the museum or online will give access to the whole museum and the HHS Exhibit. At the museum, it is $14 or $10 if tickets are bought online in advance.

“Terriers that have graduated don’t realize we have an IB program that’s been around for 20 years or all the great things Terriers are doing today. It’s the same the other way, younger Terriers don’t know a lot of things that happened back then, so we’re trying to connect everybody and show our wonderful history,” Gordon said. “We also want to inspire future generations to do something positive for the community.” The group tried to gather information and artifacts from a wide range of events and activities.

“I’m hoping there are things there regarding the founding of the school, the beginning of the oldest school in the county. I also hope that there are cool kinds of documents and pictures of when the school was first founded,” math teacher Michael Welch said, who graduated from Hillsborough in 2008. “I think that would be as a student and a teacher really interesting and exciting to see.” story and photo by edilawit seyoum

FCCLA is feeding the homeless

Junior Zach Long makes cornbread to include in meals for homeless families. FCCLA members also helped make cake and green bean casserole.

Family, Career, and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA) partnered with the culinary program to make meals for homeless families at Hillsborough. The club worked with the culinary program and cooked and packaged meals for five families of four to nine people each.

The culinary program prepared 15 chickens as the main course of the meals, and FCCLA made cake, cornbread, and green bean casserole. The club also partnered with administrators and social worker Essie Giraud to ensure that the families were able to pick up the food they needed.

After the meals were made, only three FCCLA members along with their sponsor, Jessica Raia-Long, met the families and helped them carry the meals to their cars.

“We wanted to keep it as confidential as possible for the families,” president Sheila Kratzer said. “They were really happy and appreciative.”

Once the meals had been delivered to the families, the leftovers were donated to those who had contributed. “The rest of the food we made went to some of the administration, like (Principal Gary Brady) and (social worker Essie Giraud), who helped us,” Kratzer said. story by reema patel photos by jaden shemesh and sheila kratzer

March 2020

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SNAPSHOT

DR IP ON C E NTR N T RA L

ABOVE Senior Zacarrah Cheatham crutches down onto her knee and shows off the English flag design in her jeans. To acccesorize the outfit, she chose to wear an all red Gucci belt, a gold necklace, a Michael Kors watch, as well as a white, red and blue pair of FILAs. “I get my tomboy and hip-hop style from rap artists. I just visualize it in my head first but I always start with my bottoms then I visualize the colors that would fit and I try to make sure I have two or more colors so that one color wouldn’t stand out,” Cheatham said.

compiled by alex croft

hhstoday.com

BELOW Juniors Brianna Hernandez-Lujano and Anthony Gutierrez pose on a set of stairs in front of the school, showing off their contrasting styles that seemingly go very well together. “My e-girl style reflects the genre of music I listen to and it also reflects my mood,” Hernandez-Lujano said. “My style is definately streetwear and athleaisure, I’m inspire by artists like Lil Uzi Vert and Kanye,” Gutierrez said.

RIGHT Senior Jessica Hernandez sits on the red brick, flaunting her pastel pink ruffled long sleeve and her ripped jeans that have bedazzled beading to cover the holes. To accesorize she chose to wear a black belt that has a silver heart buckle and a pair of black and white canvas Vans. “I consider my style to be modern preppy. I’ve always been into older fashion like mom jeans and a plain white tee, so I take two styles and incorporate them into what I wear,” Hernandez said.

LEFT Senior Jorge Vasquez shows off his black Steelers T-shirt and khaki shorts. Vasquez styled his outfit with his navy blue and black fanny pack that is wrapped around his shoulder, a pair of black and white canvas vans and a gold ring on his right hand. “I really like thrifting and I think that it is an easy way to make a style of your own. I usually get my inspiration from my favorite artists,” Vasquez said.

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FOCUS

March 2020

Young voters are finding their voice As more young people register to vote, candidates on all sides are fighting harder for their support.

Every Tuesday, an announcement about voter registration information for students tells those who are 18 how to register online and how those with a learner’s permit can pre-register. The initiative, led by math teacher Michael Welch, is aimed at getting more high schoolers involved in the electoral process. And this is for good reason.

A changing electorate Sen. Bernie Sanders, one of the two Democratic frontrunners, has policies aimed at eliminating student debt, while former Vice President Joe Biden has made an effort to modernize his policy stances.

Issues like climate change, which according to MSNBC polling is the most important issues to younger voters, have pushed to the forefront of the presidential race.

And high schoolers aren’t just advocating issues.

Senior Gillian Bennett is planning to volunteer. Although she hasn’t started phone banking and canvassing yet, she’s planning on it as soon as the Democratic nominee is chosen.

“I honestly really don’t want to campaign for Biden if I don’t have to,” she said. “But if Biden is the nominee and Trump seems to have a good chance to beat him, then I would campaign for Biden.”

Despite the fact that Biden isn’t her first choice, she does understand the importance of young people in the political process. Earlier, when she first understood the importance of young people to the election, she considered campaigning for Elizabeth Warren or

Sanders, and has since cast her primary vote for Sanders as well. In fact, in the 2018 midterm, voter turnout from 18 to 29-year-olds jumped 79 percent, according to the U.S. Census.

She isn’t alone in her activism. Senior Alekhya Peddu wasn’t eligible to vote in the primary, but does plan on voting in the general, as well as advocating for policies she supports.

Increased engagement This increased engagement among younger voters doesn’t necessarily come as a suprise. Thousands of young conservatives were treated to a speech by President Trump late last year at a Turning Point USA gathering in South Florida.

Statistically, though, voters 29 and younger are not only more likely to identify as a Democrat, but more likely to support progressive policies like raising the minimum wage, eliminating student debt and universal healthcare, according to recent polling by CNN. For these reasons, younger voters like Peddu are more likely to get involved so they can push party platforms towards policies like this. “I voted for Bernie because I liked his ideals,” senior Shreya Kothapalli said.

“I like health care for all and a lot more.”

“I plan on voting for a Democrat, but I want that Democrat to support the polices myself and my friends are interested in,” Peddu said. “I don’t want to see the same old. There are so many problems: climate change, gun violence, income inequality, and I don’t want to feel like those are still being approached from the same vantage point as they always have been.”

She isn’t alone in her motivation for systematic

change. Student activist groups like Students Demand Action have been after an overhaul of gun policy in Congress since the Parkland shooting, and have led the charge of young people demanding systematic change.

“They were really inspiring,” Peddu said. “Really, the [Parkland students] were saying things that we knew all along, but it was powerful to see people my age shape the political narrative like that. That’s what I want to do too.”

Progressive versus moderate candidate Joe Biden As a former vice president under Barack Obama from 2009 to 2017, and senator from Delaware for 36 years, Biden is an experienced politician. He is also one of the oldest at age 77, and has run for president two times prior. Biden’s campaign emphasizes the “battle for the soul of America.” After initially losing momentum at the start of the campaign, he regained steam following the South Carolina primary. Since, he won nine of the Super Tuesday primary states and has positioned himself as the self-proclaimed moderate contender for president. His success can be largely attributed to the supoort that he’s garnered amongst the African American electorate.

Breaking down the United States census On April 1, the national census will be held for the 24th time, tallying up the population of 50 states, Washington DC and five United States territories. The U.S. Census Bureau conducts the survey each decade, providing every home with the opportunity to participate in a questionnaire. This can be done using the internet, cell phone or physical copies distributed by mail. Households will begin to receive official Census Bureau Mail in mid-March.

Participating in the census is a legal obligation, as the

A desire for change And Bennett agrees. Also a member of Students Demand Action, she pushes her fellow classmates to advocate for progressive views, even encouraging her classmates to take quizzes to become more familiar with their political beliefs.

After the 2018 midterm election, the congressional landscape changed as the Democrats gained a majority in the House of Representatives. According to the U.S. Census, this is largely because of increased turnout from young people and minorities, specifcally Hispanics and African Americans.

The push for systematic change mirrors the changing electorate, a change that citizens 29 and younger play a large role in.

“I know that we have the power to change the political landscape,” Peddu said. “That’s why it’s so important for everyone who can vote, whether in the primaries or the generals, to vote. We can’t be a generation that roots for change if we refuse to make that change happen.” story by marin fehl

results of the census impact community resources.

The data gathered through the census contributes to the provision of public work projects. The billions of dollars in federal funding generated by census data goes to schools, hospitals, fire departments and other community resources. An undercount in the census would limit access to programs depended upon by individuals, families and communities.

Census results are also used in population apportionment, which determines state representation in the House of Representatives. Due to individual members of the House representing roughly 700,000 constituents, it is important that the 435 members be divided properly between states. In order to reapportion the House to represent the population, census data must be accurately reported among the 50 states. story and graphic by javi cuevas

Here’s everything you need to vote For both early voting and voting on Nov. 3, voters are expected to provide a valid photo ID which could include: Driver’s license U.S. passport Student ID

Bernie Sanders Sanders was a U.S. representative for 16 years and is currently a Senator for the state of Vermont.

Sanders’ campaign includes proposals such as subsidized housing, Medicare for All and a $15 minimum wage. He was the presumed frontrunner until Biden revitalized his campaign in South Carolina.

Now, Biden and Sanders are neck and neck in a race between moderate and progressive platforms. He has seen a large majority of support from younger, first-time voters and working class people. compiled by reema patel photos by nikolas liepins and carter marks

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These are the voting locations closest to you: Seminole Heights Library Wellswood Baptist Church St. Chad’s Episcopal Church Jimmie B Keel Regional Library story and graphics by marin fehl

Looking back at the previous primaries As the Democrats decide their nominee to challenge Republican President Donald Trump, here’s a look at this election season so far.

Iowa

The Iowa caucus ended in disaster for the Democratic Party. The results showed Indiana mayor Pete Buttigieg in the lead at 26.2 percent with Vermont Sen. Bernie Sanders directly behind him at 26.1 percent.

However, confusion reigned the night of the caucus as a new app for recording results developed by the Democratic National Committee failed to streamline reporting and phone lines backed up.

The results were not reported from every precinct for days following the caucus and multiple errors were pointed out among the official counts.

As a result, Sanders and others called for a recanvassing of results. The results show Buttigieg with 13 delegates and Sanders with 12, although one Iowa delegate has yet to allocated.

New Hampshire

New Hampshire holds a semi-open primary, meaning that voters who are not affiliated with a party are able to vote in either party’s primary, but voters who are registered with a party must vote in their party’s primary.

This year’s primary results showed Sanders in the lead at 25.6% and Buttigieg trailing with 23.4%.

New Hampshire has a total of 24 delegates.

Sanders and Buttigieg each won nine, Amy Klobuchar won 6 delegates, and Warren and Biden received zero.

Nevada

Nevada holds a closed caucus, meaning only party members may participate. The state allocates 48 delegates, with 36 being pledged delegates who are allocated based on caucus results. Prior to official voting in Nevada, the ninth official

debate among the candidates was held on Feb. 19.

In the 2020 caucus, Bernie Sanders won by a wide margin of 40.5 percent, winning 24 delegates. Biden trailed Sanders from afar with nine delegates.

South Carolina

South Carolina is the fourth state to hold primary elections. The state holds an open primary in which all registered voters may place a ballot for a candidate, but party members must vote along party lines. The state awards 63 delegates, 54 of which are pledged delegates.

Final counts in South Carolina showed a major surge in support for Biden, who won 48.5 percent of the vote with 39 delegates, and placed first in every county in the state. Behind was Sanders, with 19.8 percent of the vote. Following this primary and before the essential Super Tuesday elections held across the country, candidates Pete Buttigieg and Amy Klobuchar suspended their presidential campaigns.

Both Klobuchar and Buttigieg, who had gained wide followings, endorse Biden for president.

Super Tuesday

Super Tuesday, taking place on March 3, is the name for the election day in which the greatest number of states hold primary elections. Fourteen states, with a total of 1357 delegates, voted on Super Tuesday holding 34.1 percent of the nation’s vote. States voting on Super Tuesday included California and Texas, who hold some of the most delegates.

The results of the Super Tuesday elections showed a comeback for Biden, who won in Alabama, Arkansas, Maine, Massachusetts, Minnesota, North Carolina, Oklahoma, Tennessee, Texas, and Virginia. Sanders, the previous frontrunner, won Colorado, Utah, and his home state of Vermont. The votes in California are not fully accounted for. Bloomberg also suspended his campaign after the results of Tuesday’s elections and endorsed Biden.

Check HHSToday.com for more election coverage. story by reema patel photo from pixel bay

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EDITORIAL

March 2020

The first period bell. Stacks of textbooks. The final bell rings. SAT’s, ACT’s, college applications, repeat. It takes a lot more to push through to graduation than just attending class. And seniors still have to pay to walk across the stage.

Everything is a commodity. Seniors pay for college applications, to take standardized tests, to send their scores from those tests to colleges and for all of the extras: homecoming, prom, Grad Bash, the whole shebang.

But graduation isn’t an extra. It’s part of the high school process and if someone earns it, they shouldn’t have to pay $79.95 in addition to all the other expenses just to attend.

It’s hard enough

And let’s face it, it’s not like high school is a breeze for everyone. There’s the school portion, sure, but there’s also the coming of age, the trials and tribulations, the personal and the public crises and yeah, it kind of sucks.

The whole thing is just a grueling process.

Most people look back on who they were freshman year and think “OK, what was I thinking?”

It’s not uncommon because everyone changes. You walk in fresh out of middle school, out of the awkward braces-wearing or emo phase but you walk out of high school as a legal adult, or pretty damn close to one. The change is drastic.

And a lot of the time, that means getting to that point had its ups and downs.

A big deal

So, it can’t be denied that even making it to graduation is an accomplishment. And not just for the reasons that our principal repeats in the morning announcements.

You got through the academics, but you also got through all the things that are apparently dramatic and exhausting enough to inspire thousands of cliché, over-simplified movies. It’s a big deal.

Given all of that effort, it seems a little unethical to make finances a potential barrier to

attending graduation.

Because, you really already paid for that diploma during those four years.

Every student should have the means to attend graduation, to invite their family and friends, and walk smiling across the stage while wearing a bright red gown reminiscent of a Hefty garbage bag. It’s their right. And what right does anyone have to make doing that harder than it already is?

Not everyone has $79.95 lying around. Sure, for some it’s no big deal, but it is for others.

Regardless of socioeconomic status or available spending money, students deserve to be able to attend their own graduation. Even though financial aid is available to those who need it, n one should have to ask.

To celebrate their accomplishments and to mark the transition from childhood to adulthood with a ceremony. It’s worth it. Students are worth it.

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Not a privilege

And to potentially deny any student of what they are worth is a grave oversight. It’s not just Hillsborough, every high school in Hillsborough County has a similar graduation rate, give or take $10.

And all of them are wrong. Attending graduation isn’t a privilege, it’s a right, much like the 13 years of public school that seniors have to attend to find the diploma within their reach.

The rationale for these prices is admittedly understandable: schools have to pay for the space. But in all honesty, if a school can fundraise for school dances, parent associations and the football team, it can fundraise to drastically reduce, if not eliminate the cost to attend graduation.

There is no reason to require students to pay to attend the ceremony they should be guaranteed.

THIS EDITORIAL REFLECTS THE OPINION OF OUR EDITORIAL BOARD, WHICH IS WHY IT APPEARS WITHOUT A BYLINE. WE WELCOME YOUR LETTERS TO THE EDITOR DELIVERED TO ROOM 506 OR EMAILED TO HHSTODAY@GMAIL.COM graphic by john doan

March 2020

OPINION

We need menstrual products at school Menstrual cycles are just a part of the lives of women. We have them and unfortunately, there’s no turn off switch. Since periods are a part of life, we have little to no choice but to spend money on feminine products to be sanitary.

What are menstrual cycles? For those who do not understand what it is, they may think that it’s just the time of the month when my mom, sister, girlfriend, and so on are hormonal and steering clear seems like the best way to make sure that you remain on their good side. There is much more to menstrual cycles than just mood swings.

The main symptoms of menstrual cycles include PMS, bloating and cramps.

The infamous sign of a menstrual cycle is the constant blood flow from the uterus. The amount of bleeding varies from woman to woman and even then, some periods are heavier than others.

To prevent messes and embarrassment, most people will use feminine hygiene products such as pads and tampons.

Some of us view those two things to be basic commodities that we are used to having when need be. Unfortunately, that’s not the case for everyone, in some households, they

are luxury items. This issue of people not being able to afford feminine hygiene products is known as Period Poverty. To combat period poverty Always, a popular brand of feminine hygiene products has started the campaign #EndPeriodPoverty, which donates pads to girls across North America.

Some states, such as Massachusetts and Delaware, have put in place legislation that requires schools across their state to provide free feminine hygiene products.

Recently, the state of Florida has caught on to this trend. Back at the beginning of last September, state

Our bathrooms need menstrual products

Sen. Lauren Book managed to get the “Learning with Dignity” bill passed which would make feminine hygiene products available in the restrooms of all primary and secondary schools in Florida. The bill will be in effect in September of this year, which would be the start of the 2020-2021 school year.

Until then, it’s up to the students and faculty to push for immediate change. Despite the complaints of students wasting products that are already available to them (like toilet paper) schools must consider this issue because it has an impact on not only mental health but education as well. Many times, girls will miss school altogether because they don’t have the supplies they need, rather than risk embarrassment or discomfort. Here at Hillsborough High School, attendance is a major thing that’s stressed when it comes to staying on track for graduation, so we need to bring awareness to this. column by atiya anderson; graphic by marin fehl

Abortion isn’t a parent’s choice, even if lawmakers think so In late February, Florida lawmakers passed bill HB 265, which requires physicians to obtain notarized consent from legal guardians to terminate a pregnancy for minors. In short, abortion under 18 needs parental permission. And in no way is that acceptable.

No one else has a right to make decisions about someone else’s body, even if that person helped make the body. People aren’t objects. They aren’t up for debate. Neither are their choices.

Unfortunately, most lawmakers don’t seem to get it. Because naturally, a young woman’s entire future should be decided by others. Sure, she would be the only one pregnant, but obviously it’s more important that people get to have their two cents over her health.

This discussion is so tired. But it doesn’t come as a surprise. Since the summer of 2019, conservative states have pushed for more robust abortion regulations. Lawmakers and pro-life pundits are the first to say that these restrictions are in the interest of health, but we should acknowledge that instead, the interest is in control.

Admittedly, the recent bill requiring parental consent isn’t as harsh as restrictions in states like Alabama, but it still will deprive teenagers of agency, and in a lot

11

of cases, access to a potentially life-saving form of healthcare. Not every teenager is in a position to tell their parents about an unplanned pregnancy, or to even expect support from them.

Not only was this a vote against individual choice, it was a vote against preventing teen pregnancy. It was a vote against a minor’s ability to decide their future, to attend school with confidence they had made the right decision. It was a vote to prevent some teenagers from the choice of terminating or maintaining their pregnancy, but it wasn’t up to them.

And the fact that this is a decision anyone is comfortable with is inherently wrong, and so is the idea that there should be compromise. Let’s review: this law is archaic, and so is the idea that anyone, even the parents, have a say. It’s also exhausting.

How many more men are going to claim that their jurisdiction extends to someone’s uterus?

And honestly, the answer is simple.

People should get to choose. Period. Full stop. It really is not more complicated than that. Unless of course you think that other people’s bodies are up for debate. column and graphic by marin fehl

Other Fl abortion restrictions Patient must receive state-directed counseling that discourages abortions.

Affordable Care Act healthcare plans only cover abortions in the case of life endangerment, rape or incest.

Abortions are only publically funded in the case of life endangerment, rape or incest.

Patients must undergo an ultrasound and be offered to view the image prior to an abortion.

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Balance promises with realities of military life

Whether it be in a school cafeteria or a classroom giving a presentation, military recruiters can be found in various places and at various times during a student’s high school career. Depending on the student, military recruiters can have a major impact on student’s life by providing options for life after high school.

The opportunities presented can often be used to take advantage of lower income students especially at school in low economic areas. Taking advantage of any student at a high school based off their economic status is inexcusable. To be on a school campus to provide any information to students, recruiters first have to get the administration’s approval to alert the student body of these options.

This is done through the information recruiters give on the various training options and certifications available that can benefit life outside of the military. In the army for example, going to Advanced Individual Training (AIT) for a combat medic gives an EMT certification that can be used to get a job outside of the army.

On the other hand, recruiters often leave out the negative of the military of combat during deployment and mental strain gained in any aspect of the military. This is all disguised through incentives of the offer of a “new car” or travel to “see the world”.

While some may believe that military recruiters force seniors without plans to join the military, most recruiters will sit down with students with a parent if required for students under 18 and show them all of their options based off the students ASVAB scores.

This allows students to see what they are qualified to do if they choose to pursue the military and they can even see their specific areas of weakness to improve their score. However, they do this in most cases to encourage the student with the “money” and “opportunities” available to them. Recruiters will leave out the negative in most cases unless there is anyone who can point them out for leaving out the negatives. This is how recruiters are able to prey on students in lower income families by flaunting the positives of the military without the negatives such as combat and mental illnesses such as PTSD. Students are often blindsided by MEPS, which is a medical evaluation required by all branches. Most recruiters are not able to tell students limitations they may have which are found at MEPS. During that time, students sign their contracts for the military but are sometimes forced for change due to limitations found during their evaluations.

This is part of the reason why recruiters are viewed as negative in a high school environment.

The promises of money that’s given to students that are situated in lower income are the reason they will often blindly chase these promises without being told about the harsh reality that awaits them in the contract they sign. column by charles diaz

source: Guttmacher Institute

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12 March 2020

US

K E VI N VO NDRUSK A THE SKATER There he was, at the USA Roller Sports National Championship with a silver medal. It all started five years prior, at Learn to Skate class when he was only 10. The class had a special guest, a figure skater, and he was astonished as the skater performed a series of interesting jumps and spins. It was at that moment that freshman Kevin Vondruska knew he wanted to figure skate.

Vondruska started skating late compared to his peers that had been practicing since they were five, but he never let that obstacle hold him back from dominating the more advanced skills. “I sort of had a disadvantage starting since most of the people I compete with started when they were like five, but I’ve practiced really hard with no distractions, and I skipped some of the baby steps,” he said about overcoming that challenge.

Finding his motivation

His motivation in catching up to his peers also played a major role in his development as figure skater. “I want to be the best skater I can be,” he said. Being an excellent student as well, Vondruska finds ways to balance his sport with school work and other parts of his life. He practices every Tuesday through Friday at Skate World, for about 2 to 3 hours. “It’s a very demanding sport,” his mother Karen Vondruska said, “But Kevin is very self-motivated so he knows when he needs to do the homework, when he needs to practice, and when he needs to go to bed.” The skater says he does not feel overwhelmed managing school with his passion.

“I usually do my homework after practice. It allows me to de stress”, Kevin Vondruska said.

With a strong drive, he was able to master basic skills, such as balance, very quickly, and now every six months he watches

videos of himself skating to check on his progress. “You will fall a lot before you learn where your balance point is. I still fall a lot” Vondruska said.

When he first started, he used to get very frustrated when he had trouble mastering a new skill or when he fell. “As he grew, he shot up six inches and actually became very mature. He is now taking on a leadership role in the club for sure,” Vondruska’s coach, Michelle Kolch said. “He is an awesome mentor for the little kid skaters between eight and 12.” Vondruska does artistic skating, which is very similar to ice figure skating but in quad roller skates. “My favorite thing about skating are the spins,” Vondruska said. He really enjoys a particular one called the camel spin, in which he spins in arabesque. He is now exploring other areas of figure skating such as compulsory dances, which is a ballroom dance style with a partner, and a free dance, which has essentially the same movements as ice skating.

Facing challenges

Another challenge Vondruska had to face was winning over the judges. “The judges don’t like you initially. They have to notice you first and then you need to work your way up,” he said. “I’m starting to earn my spot now.” He has now been part of over 50 competitions and among those, the Southern Regional Championships in June and the America’s Cup in January, an international competition with skaters from all over the world, in which he earned first place at in both 2019 and 2020.

However, the most important competition to him was the United States Nationals, where he became a National Finalist last year, and ended with a silver medal in his event. “When you’re

hhstoday.com

Freshman Kevin Vondruska practices his free dance and compulsory dance for the 2020 Easter Invitational in Orlando. He has been figure skating since he was 10 years old and won second place in Nationals last year. “I did not expect Kevin to win Nationals, especially because it was his first time. I just wanted him to skate his very best, and he did!” Vondruka’s coach Michelle Kolch said.

stressed you don’t do it right and you end up all stiff and nervous,” he said. But that was not the case during nationals. He was actually very calm during his big performance, and that allowed him to skate his routine perfectly and do his very best. “They don’t tell you when you win until they call you to the podium, so when they said I won it was really cool,” Vondruska said.

Looking forward

His family has always been very supportive of his passion and are always present in his competitions. “I’m really proud of Kevin. He has really stuck with this sport and gone from being a very beginner to now being a national medalist,” mother Karen Vondruska said. He is currently practicing for the 2020 Easter Invitational in Orlando, which is not a major competition, but his ultimate focus is on working towards Regionals and Nationals which are coming up in a few months. He has now aged up into a harder division, the sophomore division, that has more challenging dances and requirements.

His goal is to reach the Senior World Class, being able to participate on the world championships, and possibly become a figure skate coach or judge in the future.

“I looked at the competition when I got to the National Championship and I was like, oh I might actually have a chance,” he said. Vondruska’s confidence and dedication took him a long way at Nationals. “I’ve been working really hard in the past 3 to 4 years, and I did a lot of practice leading up to it, like almost every day, so it was nice to see that happen.” story and photos by carolina tortorelli

March 2020

13

LIFE

hhstoday.com

Hangouts in the Heights 1. Nebraska Mini-Mart

Ping pong. Giant Jenga. Kimchi bulgogi sandwiches. Located at the intersection of Nebraska and Osborne, this is perfectly situated to be a Friday night hangout with the squad. Grab a seat indoors or on the giant lawn outside xand play ping pong, bocce ball, shuffleboard or giant Jenga. Or just sit back and enjoy the soft rock music and delicious food. Located at 4815 N Nebraska Ave.

2. Spaddy’s

LEFT Sophomore Lauren Novorska likes to hang out with these kittens and volenteer at The Humane Society of Tampa Bay. RIGHT Sophomore Sophia Welch volenteers by preparing meals for the less fortunate at Metroplitan Administries

Serving your community The end of the third quarter is approaching. Students are stressed, CAS is due April 16 and service hours for Bright Future applications are also coming up. Here are some ideas of volunteering opportunities:

The Humane Society of Tampa Bay

For people that love being around fuzzy friends such as kittens and puppies, The Humane Society offers a daily shift working with the kennel staff to clean the shelter each morning.

The requirement is to be at least 16 years old. “I’ve volunteered at a couple places, but the Humane Society was really my most passionate volunteering opportunity, and that’s the one I’ve really continued to do. I love working there,” sophomore Lauren Novorska said. Learn more at https://humane societytampa.org.

The YMCA

The YMCA is a nonprofit organization that focuses on taking an active role in strengthening the community. Among their many facilities and programs, their volunteering opportunities include: greeting members and assisting at the Welcome Center, cleaning and organizing equipments on the Wellness Floor, and more. “My favorite part is meeting new people and seeing them trying to enhance themselves, when they don’t necessarily have

to,” sophomore Ian Smith said. Sign up at https://www.ymca. net/volunteer .

Metropolitan Ministries

The Metropolitan Ministries seeks to ensure families find help when they need it. There are many shifts and possible volunteering opportunities, such as the kitchen, where you can prepare meals, serve the metropolitan ministries residents, stock shelves and more. You can also volunteer helping their clients shop at the Family Outreach Center, rock babies at Promise Land, or help sort through donations received each day. “We get to interact with a lot of people, and I like helping people so it’s a really good time,” sophomore Sophia Wehle said. Sign up at https://www.metromin.org/how-you-can-help/volunteer.

Meals on Wheels

With Meals on Wheels, volunteers can deliver meals and bring nutritious food, visiting people with disabilities and seniors in the community. There are different volunteering opportunities to deliver meals, such as weekly and monthly deliveries working with one other person, with a group, or just by yourself. Visit their website to learn more. story and photos by carolina tortorelli

Tampa considers single use plastic ban Tampa lawmakers are pushing to pass a single-use plastics ban.

The proposed bill would ban single use items such as Styrofoam food containers and plastic bags on city-owned property.

In 2008 Florida became the first state to preempt local plastic bag bans. Just a few years later, Florida also preempted the regulation of polystyrene. These laws stopped local governments from enacting plastic bans or polystyrene bans.

Last year, the state legislature passed a ban on local straw ordinances. This ban would have prevented local governments from enacting their own plastic straw bans, but Gov. Ron DeSantis vetoed the bill and gave local governments the opportunity to regulate plastic straws.

The bill is meant to be beneficial to the environment, as it would reduce the amount of microplastics that end up in the

water supply. However, it would only apply to property owned by the City of Tampa, which means private properties and businesses would not be affected by the ban.

To sophomore Jeevanram Munnangi, the bill appears to focus more on individual responsibility from consumers. “Consumers are just going to have to switch over to better things for their

The perfect spot for before/after school coffee and Cuban toast. Situated just across from HHS on Wilder and Florida, Spaddy’s is renowned for its relaxing environment and rich selection of coffee. For an added bonus, try the café con leche and ask for sriracha with the Cuban toast. You can thank me later.

Located at 5206 N Florida Ave.

3. Whatever Pops

Located right across from Spaddy’s, this is a bit of a pricier option for food, but you won’t find better acai bowls in Seminole Heights. Vegan soft serve and grilled cheese sandwiches are paired with an excellent Spotify playlist, making this a great after school option for catching up with friends. Located at 5127 N Florida Ave.

4. Bodega

If you’re looking for a more meal-oriented hangout spot, this is your place. With crispy, flavorful chicken and mango sandwiches along with dozens more options, this restaurant packs a true gourmet punch. Shuffleboard and aesthetic décor only add to Bodega’s reputation as the go-to night-out-withfriends spot in Seminole Heights. Located at 5901 N Florida Ave.

5. Bo’s Ice Cream

Beloved by the Seminole Heights community, Bo’s is the epitome of the phrase “simple, yet sweet.” Soft serve, ice cream floats and shakes are only a few of the decadent options available. This spot is great for late-night meetups and postsports games celebrations. Located at 7101 N Florida Ave. story and graphics by jaden shemesh

groceries and stuff, it’s whatever,” Munnangi says. “Why should we hurt the environment? Switching to sustainable alternatives is worth it if it means it’s protecting the environment. It’s going to be more expensive, but it’s worth it.”

The restriction to public areas makes the bill seem pointless to junior Emma Zimmerman. “Like, why noy just make the whole of Tampa plastic free? It just defeats the purpose of having a ban anyway, like you can’t use plastic here in Curtis Hixon but you can use it at Taco Bus across the street? It’d all just end up in the ground anyway,” Zimmerman said.

The bill is still being considered by city council however, so the limitations of the bill still must be discussed. The city council will discuss the ordinance this month. story and graphics by john doan

14

ENTERTAINMENT

March 2020

Spring break binges Crashing

‘Invisible Man’ is a psychological thrill The “Invisible Man” premiered in movie theatres on Feb. 28, providing deep and twisted psychological emphasis on your biggest fear – what you can’t see.

The movie is about a young woman, Cecilia Kass, escaping a very volatile and abusive relationship. Her abuser, Adrian Griffin, is a very rich and well regarded optics scientist who works for the government.

In the movie, he manages to haunt her even after his death from an apparent suicide.

Domestic abuse is at the core of this film’s plot, giving insight into a deep psychological trauma from her ex-boyfriend. Giving a new perspective to the horror film industry by showing that even events that happen every day such as domestic abuse can be scary and send chills up your spine. It was absolutely genius the way they portrayed it as being something of a supernatural nature when in reality it was just a very controlling and abusive man hunting down his partner by any means necessary.

HBO may not have Game of Thrones anymore, but it still has several creative shows in its arsenal.

“Crashing” follows a goody-two shoes stand-up comedian after his marriage falls apart. What ensues can only be described as a combination of a wonderful clash of dark and witty dad jokes and a star-studded cast of famous comedians.

Schitt’s Creek

Currently wrapping up its sixth and final season, “Schitt’s Creek” is a heartwarming comedy following a rich family’s descent from the penthouses of New York City to a motel in the town of Schitt’s Creek.

Appealing to all ages, this show taps into the ups and downs of the familial bond, leaving viewers bursting with laughter and tears of joy.

Bojack Horseman

Light-hearted in theory yet serious in content and execution, “Bojack Horseman” is no silly cartoon. Will Arnett incredibly portrays the sad, humorous Bojack Horseman in an animated world that nearly mirrors the actual world of “Parks and Recreation.” The show has recently ended after years of providing disturbing laughs and plotlines to its viewers, making it a great binge during the break.

The Good Place

No description can capture the magic of “The Good Place.” Having wrapped up its fourth and final season a couple months ago, I’ve had some time to reflect on this ambitious philosophical comedy. Never before has a comedy show had such sharp and clever character development whilst also bringing the viewer along his/her own completed journey. Ultimately, it is a sophisticated yet simple response to the question: “What is the answer to life?”

Love Island

A binge list cannot be complete without one reality show, and that show is “Love Island” for me. Britain has reinvigorated the genre that brought us “The Bachelor” and “Bachelor in Paradise” simply by being British (intended only in the best way possible, of course). review and graphic by jaden shemesh

who said it?

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The movie’s director, Leigh Whannell, missed his opportunity to use the movie’s music to convey emotion and instead fell short. If they had put the energy into creating a unique soundtrack to fit such a unique concept, the movie would have been far more enjoyable.

With each suspenseful scene, loud drumming and orchestra music would play in an almost corny way almost like every horror movie ever; the same loud beating when something would about to happen. With the music giving away almost every action scene, it almost lost all suspense for some of the most intriguing parts of the movie.

All in all, I would totally recommend this movie for anyone who loves a good psychological thriller.

Disregarding the corny soundtrack used throughout the movie, the storyline and cinematography used in this film are far superior to any minute details like the music. review by alex croft graphic by javi cuevas

Trump does not belong in a post-’Parasite’ world On the evening of Feb. 18, President Donald Trump halted one of his routine fluff rallies and proceeded to unleash a series of attacks directed at the 92nd Academy Awards. One jab in particular, which concerned the Best Picture victor “Parasite,” fueled the entranced crowd. “We’ve got enough problems with South Korea with trade, on top of it they give them the best movie of the year,” Trump said.

The President did not state whether he had any problems with the actual film, or whether he had even watched it at all.

Instead, he addressed the fact that a foreign language film had beaten out all domestic nominees. This upsets the president and his mono-cultural voters, who consider United States’ film industry to be the pinnacle of modern cinema. To the president and his crowd, the mere thought of a South Korean film triumphing over a catalogue of American films is cause for concern.

Giving “Parasite” the Oscar for Best Picture represents the end of a 92-year history in which Western culture has reigned supreme.

Instead of listing more deserving titles from the category of Best Picture, Trump instead cited 20th century films such as “Gone with the Wind” and “Sunset

Boulevard” as superior films. Confusing as it may be, it is no surprise that the president would rather acknowledge an outdated film with racist undertones than a modern tale of class conflict.

This conflict is indicative of a larger issue which the film industry is currently facing: the subjugation of foreign film to domestic film. When an overseas motion picture gains any sort of traction in the Oscar race, its inclusion in any category other than Best International Feature makes it an underdog. Voters and viewers commonly consider origin before merit.

Though this trend will likely persist following the “Parasite” victory, this year’s Oscar ceremony promises an impending end to the sentiment expressed by our president. review and graphic by javi cuevas

What are you listening to over spring break?

“My friend, (freshman) Ella Coble, made me a 36-hour playlist with artists Mac De Marco, Tyler the Creator, A lot of Calpurnia , David Bowie, -ELIZABETH Wallows, Tame Impala.”

BAKKE, 9

-KENYON BOOTH, 9

“Rap, Kodak, Youngblood, I can relate to what they’re saying. They speak the truth.”

-MONICA CARRILLO, 9

“Classic rock, a lot of AC/ DC and Led zeppelin. I like how the music feels like it’s not trying to copy others, it’s more original.”

15

SPORTS

March 2020

hhstoday.com

Girls’ basketball is stronger as a team

LEFT Sophomore Dylan Cantrell was the sixth man for a majority of the season before injuring his right arm, rendering him unable to help his team in their playoff run. RIGHT Senior Howard Fleming finished off his walkoff season strong by making the regional final championship. | photos by luis rodriguez

Terriers bounced in Regional Finals A 3-point loss to the eventual state champions ended the boys basketball season in Bartow, but that was not the most devastating loss of the season.

After the game, coach Chris Ward announced he would not be returning as head coach next season. While Ward was in charge, the team had 129 wins and 47 losses, including a 22-8 recrod this season.

The team went to five regional finals and two state Final Fours while he coached. The district champion team is losing four seniors, three of which started the majority of the games.

After the regional finals

The seniors still think the team is safe for next season. “I think we have some good guards and good leadership for next year,” senior Cantia Rahming said. “This year we had a lot of inexperienced kids but it feels good that we made it to states with them and now they have that experience.”

The team faced constant doubt and criticism throughout the season. They used it as motivation to go further. “Doing something people thought we could not do feels amazing,” senior Howard Fleming said. “We made it this far, and I am glad. We made it this far together, not individually, [but] as a team.”

Even though the game was a tough loss, the younger players on the team want to use it as an

opportunity to grow. They know that the only way to prepare for next season is to keep working in the gym and on the court.

“I won’t let this game define me,” sophomore Justin Anderson said. “I just have to push harder next year. I [have] two more years to go.”

“Doing something people thought we could not do feels amazing. We made it this far, and I am glad. We made it this far together, not individually, but as a team.”

- HOWARD FLEMING, 12

Going strong

The regional playoff run was impressive including two wins one of which was by 20 points.

The Hillsborough Terriers won 71-51 against the Kathleen Red Devils at home in the regional quarterfinals. After a rough first half, Hillsborough came out in the second half and took control of the game. The game was led by a 17-point game for senior Tyriq James. “It was a big win and a big confidence booster.” James said. We just have to keep our minds right for next game.”

Finishing the season

The next game was the regional semifinals.

The Terriers played Lakeland at home and won 71-69 in a very close matchup, which was not decided until the very end.

Multiple players said this was because of the amount of turnovers Hillsborough gave up.

“We really let their press get into our heads,” John said. “We still got away with a victory even with the turnovers in our back court. I still believe we can make it out of our region.”

The Terriers tried to extend their run to make the state playoffs for the second consecutive year. They played against Bartow at their court. Bartow was 28-1 going into the game.

Hillsborough lost 68-65 and it evoked a large response from the team. All the seniors wish they could have done more but the younger players are preparing for next season to see where they can go.

The younger players on the team want to hold each other accountable. “We are going to work our hardest every day in the gym,” freshman Ishaan Bhadouria said. “It is important that we take nothing for granted and keep pushing so we can win.” story by patrick mccurdy and rahul yalamanchili

The team might have lost to Bloomingdale in the district playoffs, but this season the girls basketball team finished with a winning record of 11-10.

They won their first game in the district playoffs against King.

Few believed that Hillsborough would win a majority of their games let alone one game.

“We were really the underdog this season because how we played last year,” sophomore Avery Ferrera said. “Nobody thought we would go anywhere at all.”

The older players on the team tried to make everyone feel like a family and united. They said emphasizing teamwork is the only way to get better over the years especially since there is only one senior on the team.

“Our coach made us do a lot of team exercises,” Sandra Onyebueke said. “We went on a lot of trips together. “Sometimes we would go outside with a big chain and go up and down the stairs together.”

The team has a group chat to keep each other accountable. They know that is the only way the team can get better. The team makes sure to emphasize the importance of teamwork and family. They know that without it their wins mean nothing. “Let’s get some rest and play hard tomorrow,” sophomore Kathy Simpson said to the team. “We are a family win or lose.”

The Terriers have a lot of faith going into next season. The team is full of freshman and sophomores. They also have a chemistry that has not been there in seasons past. “We have a bunch of time together,” Ferrera said. “We are just going to keep building on what we started.”

Although 11-10 is a better record than last year, they still seek more. “For next season we have to work harder, make changes to what we have weaknesses in, and stay positive,” freshman Tyra Kennedy said. story by patrick mccurdy photo by luis rodriguez

16

SPORTS

March 2020

hhstoday.com

Girls track team place second in Steinbrenner invitational

TOP Sophomore Jazmyn Wajd clears the hurdle during her 100- meter hurdle to make her time of 15.28 seconds.“My motivation comes from wanting to do better, if i get tired just remember that I can’t get better through quitting,” she said.

BOTTOM Freshman Nia Randell pushes through her 400meter dash where she placed second overall. Her motivation is her team “they say your name and cheer you on and that causes you to to run faster in your race,” she said.

The scorching hot sun, the sweat dripping down your face, a team cheerful and supportive and this year records are being broken.

The track team has started the season strong with of their athletes placing in top three for many events. The girls placed in seven events, and the boys placed in four events overall. The track team is motivated to work harder and get faster improving every day.

The team is either on the track or in the weight room five days a week preparing for their upcoming meets.

At the Steinbrenner Invitational on Feb. 22 the girls placed second overall.

Several female runners from Hillsborough had placed including freshman Nia Randell who came in second overall for the 200-meter and 400-meter dash. She ran the 200-meter in 26.74 seconds and she achieved a personal record for the 400-meter with a time of 58.97 seconds.

Randell’s says her motivation to do well is the team, “They say your name and cheer you on and that causes you to run faster in your race.” When she races, she’s focused on one thing and one thing only, “Don’t be in last!” she said.

The girls track team had several third-place recipients at the Steinbrenner meet, including sophomore Jazmyn Wajd for high jump with a mark of 1.57m and 100-meter hurdles with a time of 15.28 seconds, sophomore Justyce Murphy for the 400-meter with a time of 59.44 seconds and junior Natalya Zavala for pole vault with a height of 2.85 meters.

Sophomore Durnecia Bell and juniors Shawna Woodall, Chaze Wilson and Chian Wilson came in third for the 4x400-meter relay with a time of 50.07 seconds.

This is Chaze Wilson’s first year at HHS and she likes the team aspect of the sport.

“We all work together and we all encourage each other and we’re just one team,” she said. The team is supportive of one another and this helps them win.

The boys track team is full of many fast sprinters especially sophomore Erriyon Knighton who placed first in the 100-meter dash with a time of 10.67 seconds, the 200-meter dash with a time of 21.55 seconds and the 400-meter dash with a time of 48.11 seconds.

He is set a personal record for the 100-meter dash.

Knighton came first in all of his events at the Steinbrenner Invitational but he has a preference for races where he can build up his stamina.

“My favorite event is the 200m because it gives me time to reach my full speed,” he said. Knighton also placed first in the 4x100-meter relay along with juniors Angel Mendoza-Bayron, Matthew Garrett and Herman James with a time of 3.31.21.

Mendoza has been working to increase his 400m time.

“I like the 400m because it is the perfect balance of speed and endurance,” he said.

This will also help his relay team get a faster time.

Both teams placed a total of 11 times in the Steinbrenner meet and with help from the coaches they will only get stronger.

The athletes run their own events but are supported by their fellow teammates from the sideline. The track team is crushing times and are working towards victory. story and photos by adrianna rodriguez

Welcome to the dojo BOTTOM LEFT While working to the outside of his opponent, Elijah Bigos plans in his head what his takedown is going to be. “I read whatever move they decide to use,” he said. “I think to myself ‘if they do this I’m going to do that.’”

TOP LEFT The 132 pound weight class competitor Justus Holt is breaking down his opponent in order to pin him. “Winning feels like going down a water slide on a nice hot day,” he said.

BOTTOM RIGHT Nick Suarez starts to move to the side of his opponent so that he can prevent him from moving while he pins him. Before a match, Suarez warms up his by stance jumping and keeping his mind relaxed. “I also make a game plan for the first few seconds of the match so I don’t go onto the mat with my mind on something else,” he said. “After that, it’s all instinct.”

TOP RIGHT After starting in neutral position, Antonio Watkins sprawls to block the opponents shot. His favorite position is called the twister. “It’s unexpected and if done right leaves the opponent confused and already on their back,” he said. In order to successfully execute the twister you have to have your chest on the back of your opponent’s head with their left arm stretched to their opposite side and forward roll with their left side while grabbing the inside of their left leg and roll them to their back. | compiled by kylie smith