The Hoofbeat, Vol. 19, Issue 4

Feb. 2021 the

J.W. Mitchell High School 2323 Little Road New Port Richey, FL 34655

https://connectplus.pasco.k12.fl.us/jwmhs-hoofbeat/

Issue 4 Volume 19

hoofbeat

“We really wanted to be cautious because of COVID-19 so we plan on going on a little picnic, then going home to watch the new Studio Ghibli movie and exchange gifts for Valentine’s Day,” Pearl Torres (‘21) said, with Michael Smith (‘21). Page 7 Photo by Hailey Kroll

Issue Four Table of

Contents (pg. 6)

Photo by Hailey Kroll

News (page 3)

• Pfizer and Moderna vaccinations in the U.S. • Black History Month and its importance • Senior advice for underclassmen for course selections

Lifestyles (pages 5-7)

• The Lunar New Year and what it means • Faces in the Crowd: What did 2020 teach you?

• Students’ personal New Year’s resolutions • The absence of the All-State Band concert • COVID-19 safe dates • Five self-care tips for an inside Valentine’s Day • Closer Look on Krismeyer Phillips’ (‘22) knack for unique voice-overs • Feature on Catherine McWee’s (‘21) AP Research project that will save the world

(pg. 7)

(pgs. 11)

Photo by Hailey Kroll

Photo by Olivia Hunt

Centerspread (pages 8-9)

• Love Languages quiz and Zodiac Compatibility

Sports (pages 11-13)

• Super Bowl fun facts and scores • Varsity girls and boys basketball teams lead the year • Student athletes talk about quarantining • Condition and Nutrition for the New Year • Boys Varsity soccer goes to Districts • Varsity Girls soccer stay driven despite issues • Gregg Schindler Girl Athlete of the Month Julie Rueda (‘23) • Gregg Schindler Boy Athlete of the Month Logan O’Leary (‘22)

Entertainment (page 14)

• 2021 movie set list • Students hope for theater to stay alive • Music unites despite differing genres

Opinions (page 15)

• Editorial: Capitol riots were at the fault of Law Enforcement and the National Guard • Is senior year ruined or just different?

• Debate on gun laws after Parkland Anniversary

Back Page (page 16)

• Should the ACT/SAT have such a big impact?

Connect with us on Twitter and Instagram at

@mhshoofbeat

Check out our online newspaper:

https://connectplus.pasco.k12.fl.us/jwmhs-hoofbeat/

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HOOFBEAT

CONTENTS

(pg. 11) Provided by Gigante

Editorial

Policy

Published six times a school year, the student newspaper of J.W. Mitchell High School is a public forum with its student editorial board making all the decisions concerning its contents. Unsigned editorials express the views of the majority of the editorial board.

Letters to the editor are welcomed and will be published as space allows. Letters must be signed, although the staff may withhold the name upon request. The paper reserves the right to edit letters for grammar and clarity, and all letters are subject to laws governing obscenity, libel, privacy and disruption of the school process, as are all contents of the paper.

Opinions of letters are not necessarily those of the staff nor should any opinion expressed in a public forum be construed as the opinion or policy of the school administration, unless attributed.

(pg. 6)

Photo by Laynie Mazur

HoofbeatStaff Editors

Gracie Glover

Hailey Kroll

editor-in-chief

editor-in-chief

sports editor

news editor

Jelayna Vasquez Ashley Hoskins Emma Diehl sports editor

Hayley Fliss

centerspread editor

Riley Curie

Emma Rogers

business manager/copy editor

Valerie Farrar

Reporters Davis Burnette Luke Cartiglia Nicole Sofia Barrios Moreno Sofia Chianella

Faith Giambarberee

backpage editor

lifestyles editor

Alexa Grubbs

Ostina Myrtil

Laynie Mazur

Amelia Marty

online/social media manager

Tori Marjan ent. editor

opinions editor

Susan McNulty adviser

Marina Saviceva-Noti

Avery Weber

Bye COVID-19 Spreading awareness

What schools can do to help promote awareness for Black History Month

New vaccines give students hope for normality Avery Weber staff reporter Since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic during March, there have been a current total of 25.3 million positive cases in the United States.

Despite social distancing efforts, this number continues to climb.

However, on Dec. 14, the first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine were given to healthcare workers who face this illness in hospitals every day.

“The first group to get the vaccine should be the older population and the frontline health workers because they are the backbone of providing care to COVID-19 patients. I also believe that government workers, for example, teachers, should get the vaccine because they come into close contact with hundreds of students and adults,” Simran Saini (‘21) said.

According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), there are currently two different vaccines available: the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine and the Moderna’s vaccine. Both require two doses taken about a month apart. The second dose acts as a booster for the immune system’s response to the virus. Moreover, receiving both doses is vital for full protection against the illness.

While the ingredients of both exclude eggs, preservatives, and latex, the CDC recommends that those who receive the

Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine be ages 16 and older while those getting Moderna vaccine be 18-years-old or older.

“If I could take the vaccine right now, I would. It would not only help me but everyone around me become safer and help the scientific research that comes along with the vaccine,” Alyssia Luna (‘22) said.

Currently, around 15.7 million doses of the vaccine have been distributed throughout the nation. Although this seems like a larger number, it is only approximately 4.8 percent of the United States population. Thus, resulting in the continuation of the spread of the virus. Only about 2 million Americans returned to receive the second dose. Nathan Combs (‘22), whose father has received the vaccine, expresses the pros and cons of immunization.

“The COVID-19 vaccine will help reduce the amount of cases.

People would be able to live semi-normal once the vaccine is in circulation. [However], you never know what’s going to happen in the long run,” Combs said.

Until a significant number of students receive the vaccine, social distancing guidelines will remain in place and continue to be followed. Masks will still be worn in order to restrict the spread of the virus as much as possible.

Amelia Marty staff reporter

At the start of February, Black History Month begins as a dedication to the African American population to honor their culture and spread awareness for racial equality.

Black History Month’s origins can be traced back to Carter G. Woodson, the founder of the association for the Study Of African American Life And History. The association sponsored a national Negro History week in 1926, choosing the second week of February to coincide with Abraham Lincoln and Frederick Douglass’s birthdays. The event inspired schools and communities nationwide to organize local celebrations, establish history clubs, and host performances and lectures later, turning the week into a month of celebration. Every president since 1976 has dedicated the month of February to remember the importance of the Black community and celebrate the lifestyles and cultures within.

“It is very important to learn about and recognize Black History Month. It’s a time for people to remember and cherish the things that African Americans have done for our country and how they’ve positively influenced culture. It’s not only that but remembering what they’ve gone through over the past

century. We should spread more awareness for the community.

I would also like to see the school get more involved and incorporate Black History Month as well,” Hannah Henry (‘22) said.

This past May, protestors gathered in the streets of Minneapolis and other major cities around the United States during the Black Lives Matter protests, which began the rise of acknowledgment in the country.

The Black Lives Matter protests and movements have been eyeopening for many people.

“Black History Month should be more relevant this year because of the racial unrest that has occurred this past year. I believe this awareness month should be discussed more at school and specifically during the RANCH periods since there is extra time,” Natalya Bozolo (‘23) said.

The Student Union on Black Awareness and Culture Club, run

by Ms. Tonia Waterman (FAC), has been organized to allow students to serve as a voice for Black students on campus and provide an opportunity for students of all races to celebrate and learn about Black culture, lifestyle, and history.

“I plan on posting little known Black history facts around the school for students to learn about African American contributions to the United States because it’s important for all students at Mitchell to learn

about those contributions,” Waterman said.

Students around campus encourage others to make a difference by promoting awareness for Black History Month through lessons revolving around the culture.

“There should be more awareness of racial equality, and we need to do more to appreciate the Black community for our school. Many people are not aware of Black History Month, so we should incorporate lessons during February,” Patricia McPhee (‘23) said.

Faculty and staff promote Black History Month with the use of social media and technology on campus. Social media is one of the many ways the school keeps in contact with the student body, so promoting Black History Month on their socials will ensure that they will see the information.

“As the principle throughout the month of February, we are putting little known Black History facts on Twitter, and hopefully people start retweeting them at some point. During RANCH, we’ll be showing and highlighting different achievements for Black Americans from the past and present so that more people can come familiar with the excellence and contributions of Black Americans,” Ms. Jessica Schultz (FAC) said.

This year is The Black Family: Representation, Identity, and Diversity.

Seniors give advice about electives AP Capstone

In class, we learn new things about naval history, learning how to march/ drill, training/studying for field meets, and working out. I would recommend it to others because I believe that you can make some really good friends in the unit, stay healthy, and learn interesting knowledge.

I took AP Capstone to increase my research skills and set myself apart from other college applications.

We start with building our researching background by participating in various group and individual research projects.

The best part [of this class] is knowing that you’ve made a difference.

Megan Maxton (‘21)

Band I would recommend others to join if they simply enjoy listening to music and would like to make music with others while creating memories. Something a lot of people don’t realize is that the band is a lot like a huge extended family.

Steven Alvarez (‘21)

AP Computer Science

Business Academy

NJROTC

It’s a very good life skill to have. It is so much more than just business, too.

You get to explore several technological routes. Pursuing this academy is an amazing opportunity to get certified in things such as Microsoft Specialist and learn more about business.

This is an easy class so you do not have to risk getting a bad grade in a harder class.

You can test out what you think of coding with this class and if it is something you want to pursue you can go on to the more advanced classes. This is a good class to take to explore.

Sainandan Challagundla (‘21)

Salma Balile (‘21)

Matthew Aldino (‘21)

AP Psychology The class is very spontaneous and interesting. Unlike a lot of other classes I took last year, it sort of “unlocked my mind” and showed me new aspects of human behaviors I never realized before in life.

Carson Decker (‘21)

Medical Academy I would recommend this class for those who want to go into the medical field and want exposure to the medical environment. It gives you experience in the basic skills of health care providers and learning these things can help you decide in the future what you want to do.

Simran Saini (‘21)

NEWS

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Thanks for being my Lit buddy :) To: Jelayna From: Avery

Thank you EICs! To: Gracie and hailey From:Emma diehl

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thanks for being my valentine for the 4th year in a row <3

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hey frogs!! be my valentine <4

love you my king xoxo

Love you bae!

What you doing Feb 14th?

Love you bae!

Friends forever

To: Mariano DeCarvalho From: Hailey Kroll

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YOU'RE LOVED!

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Thanks for being a great adviser!

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You’re unBEElivable

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Adore you

Love you bunches!!

To: Ms. McNulty From: Emma Diehl

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happy valentine’s day bug <4 !!

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If you are interested in advertising or sponsoring the Hoofbeat, contact: smcnulty@pasco.k12.fl.us 4

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ADS

To: layne From: danny

If there’s a way to do it

better , find it

AP Capstone Research student creates new design of Class III Biological Safety Cabinet for world countries to study diseases

Emma Rogers business manager COVID-19 continues to negatively affect the world as we enter 2021.

However, the pandemic does not stop the spread of other viruses that continue to infect people.

Outbreaks of different diseases such as Ebola continue to plague the world, specifically small world and impoverished countries.

Catherine McWee (‘21), an AP Capstone Research student, chose to research and redesign a device to study infectious diseases.

She will examine and create a new design that is a cheaper and more user friendly alternative to the Class III Biological Safety Cabinet, a device used to study highly infectious diseases that she will use

as a model for her research project. The cabinet fully encloses a system that runs on its own air filtration system and requires a secondary boundary, which will allow healthcare workers in impoverished countries to quickly and effectively identify possible epidemics before they cause a large loss of life.

“Impoverished countries are constantly battling infectious diseases which claim innumerable lives.

Cholera is still a problem in Africa, along with many other neglected tropical diseases that kill upwards of 500,000 people a year.

This device will allow them to conduct research on-site without the need of foreign aid,” McWee said.

The Class III Biological Safety Cabinet costs about $65,000 and the model McWee’s working

to improve costs up to $50,000 to create. The goal for the cabinet McWee will design is an updated prototype that will function as a hand-held design for impoverished countries to continue to study diseases at a reduced cost.

“For my method I plan on finalizing a draft of the design, by constructing a cardboard prototype to work through problems before the materials come in so as to not waste money, and then working with the actual materials in construction and adding the computer components, and, of course, making sure everything works in tandem. The box will run on a computer system which will monitor the inside temperature, humidity, and pressure, along with a lock and

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unlock mechanism, the filtration system, and a self sanitizing system,” McWee said.

McWee, with the feedback of her peers and Ms. Jamie Oreggo (FAC), writes a research paper where she will prove whether or not it is possible to create an effective alternative to the Class III Biological Safety Cabinet. McWee wants to find a way to make third world countries capable of studying diseases without outside assistance.

“I chose this project on a whim. I was thinking about the current pandemic and how improper lab protocols were thought to be the original reason COVID-19 was released.

This led me to the thought process of, how can I make labs failsafe to prevent this from happening again?

After some preliminary research, I settled on improving the current Class III design as it is already effective in its purpose.

However, a more accessible device will allow for more people, especially those in impoverished countries, to take steps towards preventing large epidemics,” McWee said.

Catherine McWee’s (‘21) cardboard prototype to model the altered size and manage it as a hand-held cabinet. “I will be constructing a cardboard prototype to work through problems before the materials come in, as to not waste money, and then working with the actual materials in construction and adding the computer components, and of course making sure everything works in tandem,” McWee said. Photo provided by Catherine McWee

Animated to reality

Video games and animated shows call for a meaningful voice Laynie Mazur opinions editor

I love you guys, we are going to have the best season!

To: JV Winterguard team From: DayAnna

Be my galentine To: gracie From: jelayna

only you To: nicole From: jelayna

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Thank you for everything you do for us!

Can I take a few shots at your goal?

i love u, but only platonically

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hey, man. we needed to fill in some more of these, so this one is for u. don’t let it go to your head.

this is only high school, you don’t have to pick out classes for your career just yet. live your life.

join the school newspaper. we love to write, take pictures and have parties. safely, of course.

To: Mariano From: Gracie

To: underclassmen From: a senior

To: students From: the school paper

Time,” “Neon Genesis Evangelion,” and “Spongebob,” Phillips saw the opportunities available in the world of voice acting. He then voice-overred video games like “Danganronpa,” “Final Fantasy,” and “Earthbound” in his free

Phillips said.

At school, Phillips works behind the scenes of the In the world of animated News crew, producing films, shows, and an episode daily on local highly-detailed video school news in addition games, the dependency on to national updates. strong and well-delivered By working daily with dialogue is necessary production and film, for connection between Phillips acknowledges the animated the importance of characters and the media and vocal those playing acting.

I got interested in voice acting the game. After “Voice actors are just by watching shows or playing playing video responsible for giving games, seeing the emotion voice games lacking a characters in different actors put into their roles and voice, Krismeyer forms of media a voice.

Phillips (‘22) and I’m not in anything how iconic certain characters can his friends saw official or professional; become solely by the sound of the need for more I do it as a hobby, but their voice. moving dialogue.

I do have aspirations Krismeyer Phillips fills in the to do it professionally roles that he feels in the future,” Phillips are missing. said.

“My friends Vocal acting, ask me to read whether professional lines from dialogue-heavy time. or for fun, provides a games with little to no “I got interested in voice link between the events voice acting. It’s helped acting just by watching taking place on screen me find my vocal range shows or playing games, to the emotions and and has provided us some seeing the emotion voice thoughts of a character. good entertainment,” actors put into their roles By appreciating the world Phillips said. and how iconic certain of vocal acting and the Currently as a hobby, characters can become effectiveness of good Phillips voice overs various solely by the sound of dialogue in animation, video games and shows. their voice. I wanted to Phillips’ hobby may Gaining inspiration from take a shot at it myself and become a career. shows like “Adventure I ended up enjoying it,”

Philips (‘22)

FEATURE

HOOFBEAT

5

Celebrations for this Lunar New Year

Even from the United States, those who celebrate the Lunar New year can embrace their culture and celebrate their traditions Marina Savicova-Noti staff reporter Friday, Feb. 12, 2021 marks the day of the Chinese Lunar New Year, also called Spring Festival.

While the regular new year date is based on the solar calendar, this date comes from the lunar calendar, based on the moon’s phases, and falls between Jan. 21 and Feb. 20. This year, 2021, is the year of the Ox. “Chinese New Year is the most important holiday for all Chinese people across the world,” Mr. Yan Li (FAC), the certified Chinese language teacher at Seven Springs Middle School,

said.

Most celebrations, like parties, feasts, and shows begin one week before the actual date, with the house being cleaned and food being prepared for the main event.

“On New Year’s Eve, families will have a feast, either at home or in a restaurant, and then wait for New Year’s Day to arrive while playing games, such as Mahjong, and watching the annual fivehour long special TV program,” Li said.

Celebrations for the festival are similar to celebrations for the new year based on the solar calendar. Travel in China

increases in the days coming up to the festival as families gather together to celebrate.

Some people travel thousands of miles to see relatives or visit their home country. Homes are decorated with cheerful new year’s decorations and fireworks shoot across the sky and family members exchange gifts, which usually contain brand-new clothes. In the days after the celebration, families go around the city and wish everyone a happy new year and give each other small red squares with the chinese character for good luck.

Hannah Henry (’22) took Chinese for two years in middle

Facesin thecrowd I’ve learned that it’s difficult to change ignorance and people have to be willing to accept you for your race.

Syieda Williams (‘21)

It taught me how to be strong and how to remain cool despite facing adversity.

Matthew Clark (‘22)

We need to be grateful for what we have and respect each other’s opinions in any given situation.

Jaelyn Slawiak (‘23)

school. For Chinese new year, each class period would celebrate with a party to immerse students in the festivities.

“Mr. Li ordered us Chinese food and we made decorations based on the animal of that year on the lunar calendar. We also watched some traditional Chinese cartoons and played music,” Henry said.

Several other traditions developed for the new year celebrations, like eating dumplings on every day of the festival. The color red is an important symbol for luck, a main focus and wish of the new year.

After new year’s day comes the

Lantern Festival, also known as Yuan Xiao Festival, on the fifteenth day of the new year. The last day of official celebration, where people launch thousands of lit lanterns into the night sky, honors dead ancestors and represents peace and forgiveness.

“When I was a child, Chinese New Year meant firecrackers, new clothes, and dumplings.

Now that I am in my forties living on the other side of the world, it means dumplings, and a good time celebrating with my new family and friends in my new home while reminiscing the good times with my parents,” Li said.

What did 2020 teach you?

It taught me to be grateful for the people I have in my life.

Preston Williams (‘21)

I learned how to deal with change and that change is okay considering I moved here from Minnesota.

Ceyphora Wamba (‘24)

Committing to New Year’s resolutions Setting goals each new year and sticking to them creates many unique experiences for those who take part in this tradition

Faith Giambarberee staff reporter As the new year rolls around, goals and expectations are set through a traditional practice known as “New Year’s Resolutions.” However, the typical challenge is actually following through with them.

Elizabeth Billet (‘23) plans on staying dedicated to her goals throughout the new year by taking the necessary actions to help her achieve them. Staying hydrated in hopes of feeling better and keeping her grades up to be able to get into a good college will motivate her to fulfill her resolutions.

“Drinking more water will

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HOOFBEAT

be easier because I constantly getting a job working for his dad have my water bottle on me, over the summer. The job has but staying good pay motivated and will help with my him save up I was successful in school work for college. meeting last year’s will be more He’s also difficult. I making sure resolution because I plan to try there isn’t just studied more than to set aside any reason more time he won’t usual. Also, I paid more for school be able to attention in class. work and work in the Vasilis really focus upcoming on it. If I summer. don’t set any “I was expectations successful for myself, I in meeting might start to slip and not hold last year’s resolution of focusing myself accountable.” Billet said. more on school because I just Vasilis Pappas (‘23) plans on studied more than usual. Also,

Pappas (‘23)

LIFESTYLES

I paid more attention in class.

If you don’t set expectations for yourself, then you will never know what you are really capable of achieving,” Pappas said.

Several students find themselves struggling with staying focused when trying to meet these standards they set for themselves. Cierra Gamble (‘21) finds it easy to get lost and off topic. However, Gamble found new ways to persevere this time around.

“My New Year’s resolution is to make it a better year and to do good in school. Graduation will keep me motivated to be able to move on. My friends also motivate me. It’s important to set expectations because if

you meet them, they make you feel better about yourself and it’s good to have things to move up to. My resolution last year was to focus on school. I wasn’t successful because I let myself get distracted.” Gamble said.

According to The University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) Medicine News, less than eight percent of people actually stick to their resolutions each year, yet, several continue to still set standards for themselves in high hopes of fulfilling their goals for the new year. With the support of their friends and family, Billet, Pappas, and Gamble are hopeful for success in holding themselves accountable with their New Year’s Resolutions.

All-State band

Dating safely in COVID-19

A concert to show the talent of the students accepted in All-State band is nowhere to be found Celebrate Valentine’s Day with a partner while staying safe and healthy Laynie Mazur opinions editor

In late September, high school band students across the state of Florida submitted their virtual auditions to the Florida Music Education Association (FMEA) for the chance to play in the All State Band for the 2020-2021 school year. However, with COVID-19 restrictions, those that made it to the prestigious All State level have no information on when their hard work will pay off in person.

Benson Thacher (‘21), Olivia Duquette (‘23), Victoria Thomas (‘23), and Abigail Herbage (‘23) made it to All State this year, yet FMEA found an alternative for performing in the conference.

They plan to Zoom in to the event over the weekends of Jan. 16, Jan. 23, and Jan. 30, but as of now, no performance-date is known.

“Not knowing when or if All State [concerts] will happen is kind of frustrating because this might be the only time I ever make it. So knowing this is a once in a lifetime experience and I might not even get to do it is sad,” Duquette said.

All band students receive the opportunity to audition for All State. Practicing well before the submission deadline in September, those auditioning must submit a video of them playing 13 scales on their instrument in addition to two songs with differing difficulty levels. Playing the soprano clarinet, Thacher made it to this level after playing clarinet since the fourth grade.

“I’ve practiced a ton, and it’s helped me get extremely

familiar and comfortable with my instrument. I have practiced many times when I don’t feel up to it, but I am a better musician because of it. I’m disappointed that there is a good chance COVID-19 has taken away my All State experience, especially since this is my senior year,” Thacher said.

In previous years, the Tampa Convention Center hosted the All State Band concerts, providing those achieving the All State level the recognition they worked for. Other, more local performances such as Solo and Ensemble chose to limit the number of guests allowed to be present during their concert, allowing students to perform.

With All-State members, including high schools from all over the state, this limit becomes difficult to enforce with such a large event. Making All State for the second year in a row, this year looks a little different for Herbage.

“To get to the All State level, I practiced hard and persevered.

The main struggle that gave me trouble was the feeling of doubt. Once I was able to overcome the feeling that I wasn’t good enough, then music became much easier and more enjoyable. For the next three weekends, I will be attending [All State] from home,” Herbage said.

Despite their lack of a payoff in the end, the satisfaction of achieving the All State level remains. In other band updates, the All-State students, along with the rest of the band, played solos for friends and family in their Solo and Ensemble concert on Feb. 26.

“I plan on maybe going out to dinner or even staying home and making dinner for Valentine’s Day.”

“If we do go out, I’m sure it will be something outside, like the beach, so we don’t have to be around people.”

“Valentine’s Day should be spent with the person you love most. Doing anything will work on that day, as long as you two are together and having a good time.”

“For Valentine’s Day, you can go out to dinner, walk around the sponge docks, or hang out at the causeway.

I’ll probably go mini-golfing with my girlfriend.”

Michael Garcia (‘22)

Alexander Rivera (‘24)

Baillie Phipps (‘23)

Olivea Voigt (‘21)

No

partner

required

Take care of yourself with the simple methods from these Valentine’s Day tips

1. Treat yourself to a gift.

4. Write out 10 things you love about yourself.

3. Do a social media cleanse; unfollow who bring you down.

2. Put on your favorite outfit and take pictures of yourself.

5. Pamper yourself with face masks.

Playing in front of middle school band students to encourage them to take band in high school, Herbage performs a solo during their jazz performance.

Photo taken by Laynie Mazur.

LIFESTYLES

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LOVE LANGUAGE QUIZ

Directions: For each question, there are two options. Choose the one that describes you most and circle the letter to the corresponding question. At the end tally up how many times you answered each letter. The letter you circled most determines your love language which can be found in the hearts to the right.

Love Language Quiz based on the books by Gary Chapman and pulled from studentlife.mit.edu

1

I like to receieve notes of affirmation .................................................... A I like to be hugged ................................................................................ E

11

I’ve got a surprise for you ..................................................................... C We can make something really cool together ...................................... D

2

I like to spend one-to-one time with a person who is special to me .... B I feel loved when someone gives practical help to me ........................ D

12

How did you know how to do that? You’re brilliant! ............................. A I can’t wait to give you your present! .................................................... C

3

I like it when people give me gifts ........................................................ C I like leisurely visits with friends and loved ones ................................... B

13

Would you like for me to scratch your back? ........................................ E Let’s spend the day doing whatever you want to do ............................ B

4

I feel loved when someone I love puts their arm around me ................ E I feel loved when I receive a gift from someone I love or admire ......... C

14

I feel loved when people do things to help me .................................... D I feel loved when people give me a reassuring handshake or hug ....... E

5

I like to go places with friends and loved ones ..................................... B I like to high-five or hold hands with people who are special to me .... E

15

I value praise and try to avoid criticism ................................................. A Several small gifts mean more to me than one large gift ..................... C

6

I like to be told that I am appreciated .................................................. A I like for a person to look at me when we are talking ........................... B

16

I need physical contact with people everyday ...................................... E I need words of encouragement and affirmation everyday .................. A

7

I like when people give me cards, flowers, or other small tokens ......... C I feel loved when people affirm me ...................................................... A

17

I know a person is thinking of me when they give me a gift ................. C I feel loved when a person helps me with my chores or tasks .............. D

8

Words of acceptance are important to me ........................................... A I know someone loves me when they help me ..................................... D

18

I enjoy when someone gives me undivided attention .......................... B I enjoy when someone does some act to serve me .............................. D

9

What someone does affects me more than what he or she says .......... D Hugs make me feel connected and valued ........................................... E

19

I like for people to shake hands or hug when they see me ................... E I like when people listen to be and have interest in what I am say ....... B

10

Would you help me cook dinner? ......................................................... D I like going fun places with you! ............................................................ B

loved when someone celebrates my birthday with a gift ............. C 20 II feel feel loved when my birthday is celebrated with meaningful words .... A

Which Zodiac sign is right for you?

Compiled from Daily Horoscope App

Aquarius

Pisces

Aries

Taurus

Gemini

Cancer

[ Jan. 20 - Feb. 18 ]

[ Feb. 19 - Mar. 20 ]

[ Mar. 21 - Apr. 19 ]

[ Apr. 20 - May 20 ]

[ May 21 - Jun. 20 ]

[ Jun. 21 - Jul. 22 ]

Aquarians have a sensitive personality with a fear of being vulnerable. It may take them time to open up, but their love can last a lifetime full of acceptance and trust.

Aquarians can also be very independent.

Pisces are very nurturing and when in love, they fall hard. Pisces are very affectionate and if they take time to slow down in relationships, Pisces can build a strong foundation for their relationship that will grow to great lengths.

Aries are very charming, which attracts others easily. They do not take no for an answer and are straight shooters. Aries can be aggressive, but they have a daredevil personality that can also be found as exciting to others.

When it comes to romance, Taurus tend to be shy and withdraw themselves. They can look confident; however, they are insecure when it comes to love. They love people who are outgoing and make their feelings obvious.

Geminis love deeply; however, they do not always show it.

This can result in miscommunication is relationships. This can be overridden by doing the little things Gemini’s love and by making a conscious effort for them.

Cancers are one of the most devoted signs as well as sensitive and sweet. Although Cancers are loving and loyal, they tend to be more on the shy side when it comes to showing their affection while in public.

Match best with Leo, Libra, and Aquarius

Match best with Taurus, Cancer, and Scorpio

Match best with Libra, Sagittarius, and Leo

Match best with Scorpio, Virgo, and Capricorn

Match best with Sagittarius, Leo, and Aries

Match best with Cancer, Capricorn, and Pisces

Match worst with Scorpio, Pisces, and Cancer

Match worst with Gemini, Leo, and Aries

Match worst with Taurus, Capricorn, and Virgo

Match worst with Aries, Leo, and Sagittarius

Match worst with Pisces, Cancer, and Scorpio

Match worst with Aries, Leo, and Sagittarius

Love Language Results

Words of Affirmation

If you answered mostly A, then you like to use or receive words of affirmation. These are the ways you express your gratitude and needs to someone else in a positive manner. Examples are verbal compliments and encouraging words.

Quality Time If you answered mostly B, time spent with another person with your undivided attention focusedon them. You like to focus on togetherness and quality time/conversations with people or your significant other.

Receiving Gifts

If you answered mostly C, you feel content and loved when you receive gifts from others. A gift is any tangible item that reminds you that someone was thinking of you when they gave it to you.

These gifts don’t have to cost money, just showing they care.

Acts of Service

Physical Touch

If you answered mostly D, you have a way of expressing love or care for someone by serving them, doing something for them, or helping them to accomplish a task without expecting anything in return.

If you answered mostly E, you express love by having some sort of positive physical contact with another person. Physical touch can be especially important in times of high stress or in some crisis situation.

A

B

C

D

E

Tally: Total:

Designed by H. Fliss Photos licensed for resuse if not otherwise credited

Leo

Virgo

Libra

Scorpio

Sagittarius

Capricorn

[ Jul. 23 - Aug. 22 ]

[ Aug. 23 - Sept.. 22 ]

[ Sept.. 23 - Oct. 22 ]

[ Oct. 23 - Nov. 21 ]

[ Nov. 22 - Dec. 21 ]

[ Dec. 22 - Jan. 19 ]

Leos are very open to showing their affection.

They are strong, loving, and loyal. Leo’s will defend their partner as they are very protective of them. In addition, Leo’s will honor and trumpet their partner’s achievements.

Virgos are hard to read.

They still love deeply, but their partner may find themselves wonder what they are thinking.

Virgos are encouraged to show their emotions.

That way, it can help them have more fulfilling relationships.

Libras are fascinated with love. This leads them to fall in love easily and sometimes too easily. Attracted to looks, they have to stop themselves to think about if the love interest traits blend well with their own.

Scorpios are harder to win over, but once they fall, they will love deeply and passionately.

While they are known to be the most alluring sign, they are still very affectionate. If you do something wrong, there is no going back.

Sagittarians are always surrounded by loved ones. They enjoy deep conversations and lots of laughs. Even though they want to be with someone, they value their independence.

They want to live life to the fullest.

Capricorns tend to be hard-headed when it comes to love. They do not know how to end things since they often hope their partner shapes into what they believe they should be.

Capricorns can still have fulfilling relationships.

Match best with Aquarius, Libra, and Sagittarius

Match best with Pisces, Taurus, and Capricorn

Match best with Aries, Gemini, and Leo

Match best with Taurus, Pisces, and Cancer

Match best with Gemini, Aries, and Leo

Match best with Cancer, Taurus, and Virgo

Match worst with Pisces, Cancer, and Scorpio

Match worst with Leo, Aries, and Sagittarius

Match worst with Virgo, Capricorn, and Scorpio

Match worst with Gemini, Aquarius, and Libra

Match worst with Pisces, Scorpio, and Taurus

Match worst with Leo, Aries, and Sagittarius

10

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Hoops, I did it again Wrestling first place

As a sophomore on varsity, Julia Rueda (‘23) leads her season

Ashley Hoskins news editor

Starting basketball at eight-years-old, Julia Rueda (‘23) strives for excellence as a sophomore point guard on the varsity girls basketball team at J.W. Mitchell High School.

Rueda leads her team to victory by scoring numerous points during games, with guidance from her coach, Mr. James Devins (FAC). Through previous friendships with her fellow teammates, she learns what it takes to become a leader and encourage others on and off the court.

“During the season, I try winning one game at a time. Lifting up my teammates during games is very important, especially if we’re down by a few points. I tell them to shake it off and

get the ball back on the next play in order to keep them focused on the next possession. We’re hoping to make it to districts, then states and further towards the end of the season,” Rueda said.

Making varsity two years in a row comes with joy but also hardships needed to work through. Rueda received a mild injury during the fifth game of the season, which meant taking time away from the sport she loved most.

“I thought getting up early and spending long hours of practice was going to be the hard part of this journey. I had gotten a concussion around the middle of December and was out for about a month. Since it wasn’t too major, I knew I would come back at some point. Being patient was the difficult part,” Rueda

said.

With endless conditioning and long practices, Rueda plans on considering basketball as a college path once she graduates high school.

“Since basketball has always been my number one sport, It would be nice to play in college. I would definitely look into options, such as Division one schools like the University of South Florida or the University of Central Florida in the future,” Rueda said.

Rueda continues to succeed as she leads her team by 17.4 points and 6.6 rebounds per game, and 4.6 steals per game.

During their six-game winning streak, she had led the way, which included critical victories over Fivay High School, Nature Coast High School, and Calvary Christian High School.

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Captain, Logan O’Leary (‘22), brings hope for wrestling team Jelayna Vasquez sports editor

Although the Mitchell wrestling team has not placed first in any tournament in the last six years, that could be changing thanks to the efforts of Logan O’Leary (‘22). O’Leary has been wrestling for three years and has become an important member of the team according to his coach, Michael Loguidice.

“He is undefeated this year with a record of 8 wins and no losses.

Logan is one of my two team captains and always goes above expectations.

His leadership got us to get first place at the Gulf Christmas Duals,” Loguidice said.

The wrestling matches are divided by weight class. Starting with the lightest weight class of no

more than 106 lbs., each team or school sends the teammates that fit in that weight class until they reach up to the heavyweight class.

“To prepare for matches, the team jogs, stretches out, then we go through our moves and wrestle with our team to get warm.

The team is like a family, we are all really close and we do the best to push each other to be better,” O’Leary said.

O’Leary decided to join the team his freshman year after his father had the idea for him to try it. He was interested in wrestling and realized he liked it, so he continued to keep up with it. By junior year he earned a leadership role on the team.

“As co-captain, it’s my job to make sure everyone is working their hardest in practice, in their matches,

and that the team stays motivated. [ The other co-captain ] and I work really well together. We both started wrestling at the same time and we’ve gotten really close. We both do our best to keep everyone in the right head space,” O’Leary said.

So far this season, the team has a record of 12 wins and 25 losses. One of O’Leary’s most recent wins brought his new record to 20 wins and 6 losses, with just one more team tournament left this weekend.

So far this season, the team has a record of 12 wins and 25 losses. One of O’Leary’s most recent wins brought his new record to 20 wins and 6 losses.

O’Leary was quarantined from Jan. 22 to Feb. 2. He will return to the gymnasium on Feb. 5 and 6 at Hudson High School.

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Conditioning Kicking into soccer season and Nutrition The varsity boys soccer team finishes regular season strong, moving on to districts Emma Diehl sports editor

Fun facts on healthy eating and exercising

LAUGH A LOT Laughing 100 times actually has the same impact as 15 minutes of exercise on a stationary bike (University of Queensland). Plus laughing also stimulates your organs and relives stress (Mayo Clinic).

GOOD DIET Make sure to include superfoods like berries, fish, leafy greens, nuts, whole grains, cruciferous vegetables (including broccoli, kale, etc.), tomatoes, and other healthy foods in your diet (Harvard).

EXERCISING It is recommennded that adolescents from six to 17-yearsold do at least 60 minutes of moderate to strenuous physical activity a dayW, according to the Physical Activity Guildline for Americans.

DRINK WATER Women should be drinking 11.5 cups of water daily and men should be drinking about 15.5 cups a day, said the U.S. National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine.

MODERATION As stated by Unity Point, moderation when eating is important. Denying yourself your favorite foods, results in a higher likelihood of you overeating when you do not eat them.

Rain falling lightly on the grassy field, the varsity boys soccer team played against Land ‘O Lakes high school, beating the gators two to one with a goal in the second half. So far this season, the team has a record of 15 to 5 to 1.

With COVID-19 still in effect, goalie and team captain Justin Fisher (‘21), has been leading his team through the challenge of the pandemic.

“COVID-19 has dramatically affected our season, as we have had many players quarantined.

It’s not at all what I expected my senior season to look like, but I believe we are making the best of it. A bunch of people are working to make sure we

can keep playing,” Fisher said.

Teammates and coaches alike work together on drills, communication skills, and more in order to have a more successful season.

After years together on club teams, the boys have formed a strong bond.

“The team is like a family, we’re constantly with and rely on each other to win games. Coach Oscar helps me understand what I have to do when I get onto the field,” Medin Kukuljac (‘22) said.

The weekend of Jan. 10, the team won the Tampa invitational tournament at Jesuit High School. AJ Misemer (‘23) was thrilled with the victory. “[My favorite moment of the season was] probably winning the Tampa invitational tournament at

Jesuit, because we beat some of the best teams in the nation. It’ll give us encouragement.

I think we have a good chance to make a pretty solid run again this year [at the playoffs],” Misemer said.

After winning the District title last season, the boy’s soccer team hopes to advance to the state playoffs once again to claim the trophy.

Ending their regular season Elias Pasiourtis (‘21) runs down the field, with a record of 15 attempting to shoot the ball up to a to 5 to 1, the boys teammate and past a Land ‘O Lakes High ranked 68 in the School defender. The boys ended up state of Florida. winning the game on 1/15 two to one.

The boys had their high school on 1/27, and last regular season game entered the playoffs on away against Anclote Feb. 3.

Living out their

goals

The varsity girls soccer team continues out the rest of their season making strides Luke Cartiglia staff reporter With the Varsity soccer season underway, this group of athletes persevere through so they can to overcome the obstacles of the season such as . One key element to achieving this is the tight team bond that the girls have developed. To an athlete, support and kind words of encouragement are crucial to building one’s self confidence and making them feel better about themselves when they have nobody else to go to.

“My team is like family to me. We all make each other laugh and get along very well with each other, especially considering

the fact that we are all in different grades than each other and play for different club teams. I would do anything for these girls and I know they would do the same for me,” Julianna Michael (‘23) said.

With the pandemic in place, it is hard for the team to find quality bonding time together.

However the team still finds ways to overcome these challenges any way that they can.

“For soccer it hasn’t had that big of an impact since we don’t take buses to games. The only thing is wearing masks on the sideline for some games.

You have to wear it on the bench, take it off if you’re going in, and then put it back on when you come

out again. Quarantines also “My teammates are have a huge impact on always there for me no the season. Schools have matter the situation. On to cancel or reschedule and off the field they games due to lack of always push me to do my numbers. Some schools best,” Gabriella Meyers even have to combine their (‘23) said.

JV and varsity teams for This group of athletes the game because there is do not make excuses and no room in the schedule to instead they find a way to fit them in,” Michael said. get the job done.

This group of athletes strives for success no matter the situation.

They find time to get extra practice in and are determined and driven to Christine Wicker (‘21), Captain Destiny Sanchez accomplish (‘21), Athena Colvin (‘21), and Kaley Hudak (‘21) anything in marked the end of their high school soccer catheir path. reers on senior night, 1/18. Photo by Emma Diehl

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Historical hometown Super Bowl LV

Logos licensed for reuse if not otherwise credited

The Buccaneers beat the Chiefs, winning the Super Bowl 55 with a score of 31-9 at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa Bay, FL

Tampa Bay Buccaneers versus Kansas City Chiefs [Playing on the Buccaneers home field] was amazing because it’s the first time in history.

We smacked the Chiefs and we’re coming back next year.

I feel as tho the Chiefs didn’t show up to play. I believe some of the calls were bad and it got into the Chiefs heads. I believe the main reason we didn’t score any touchdowns was because Travis Kielce and Tyreek Hill were being doubled marked almost every play.

Christine Wicker (‘21)

Jacob Livingston (‘22)

Total touchdowns: 3 Past Super Bowl wins: 1 Total interceptions: 0 Bracket Rank: 21

Photo by Hailey Kroll

Photo by Hailey Kroll

Winner: Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Total touchdowns: 0 Past Super Bowl wins: 1 Total interceptions: 2 Bracket Rank: 21

Stand tall, play B-ball Stuck at home Both Varsity basketball teams’ players work on their leadership skills

Athletes share their quarantine experiences

Sofia Chianella

Davis Burnette staff reporter

staff reporter With the basketball season coming to a close, the girls and boys varsity teams have been constantly practicing. As of Jan. 28, the boys varsity team earned a record of 5-12 and the girls 16-6. Players have stepped into the roles of leaders, continuously motivating each other through positive attitudes and team sportsmanship.

Never playing on the basketball team before, did not stop Jason Richardson (’22) from supporting his fellow teammates, despite difficulties.

“This is my first year on the team, so my goals are to improve and do the best I can to support the team. I plan on being a good role model and having a positive attitude while we get through this difficult season.

It’s my first season, not my last, but it’s definitely an interesting experience with COVID-19 going on,” Richardson said.

On the contrary, previous experience with basketball helps Stephen White (’21) support the players on the team by giving them guidance and constructive criticism.

“My relationship with the team is very good. I plan on being a

leader by mentoring younger players and building them to be better players in the future,” White said.

In regards to leadership, the girls varsity basketball team is similar to the boys. Hannah Judd (’22) who has played since the 4th grade, gives her advice and knowledge to her teammates as a captain.

“I plan on being a leader by allowing anyone to come to me with issues that have occurred and need help being fixed, having high energy in a winning or losing game to give a little extra motivation to push through, and being very vocal on the court so my teammates know what is happening,” Judd said.

Stepping into the role of senior captain, Katryna Adamski (’21) keeps her fellow players motivated through her leadership skills and constant commitment to her making her team successful.

“As captain, I help keep the team focused and support others. I try to lead by example, and always put my best foot forward. Additionally, I help formulate team goals for the season and what needs to happen to achieve those. I have a closer relationship with our coaches and try to be

a link between both JV and varsity. Over the past year, our team relationship has grown significantly. We consider each other family and have a very strong bond that will carry on throughout the season,” Adamski said.

Both teams’ regular seasons ended last week, the boys with a final record of (fill) and the girls (fill). The boys had their last regular season game against Bishop McLaughlin High School on Feb. 5 while River Ridge versed the girls varsity team for their last game on Jan 29.

“I made sure [to stay] in shape by practicing at home, and I kept in touch with my coach and teammates through social As the Mitchell sports teams media,” Byrne said. practice and attend games, Being isolated from face to student athletes have been face interaction can be difficult quarantined from school and the for students to handle. Alexander sport they participate in. While Ageladelis (‘22) was quarantined getting quarantined affects both during his soccer season. the student and team, both “I am used to having lots of continue to work together in practice and order to stay being with productive for the team the rest of the I helped support my often. With season. quarantine, I Larry Legg (‘21) team while in quarantine by keeping up with the had to settle was quarantined with watching during his senior game, then telling the my team go varsity soccer boys congrats after the on without season and wins. me. It was adapted to the Larry unfortunate new situation by to have not working out and been able to supporting his participate for team from home. two weeks,” Ageladelis said.

“I really worked to stay in Those who know friends or shape by practicing alone with family in quarantine should a ball, running, and biking. I remember to communicate helped support my team while in with them virtually to check in quarantine by keeping up with on them and make sure they’re the game, then telling the boys doing okay. congrats after the wins,” Legg “[To the quarantined], I would said. say it’s going to be over soon.

While quarantined, staying in If you want to play and enjoy shape and communicating with the season, I would make sure the team is important. Hailee to stay in shape and focus on Byrne (‘21) was quarantined from yourself,” Legg said. cheerleading in January.

Legg (‘21)

As Alec Hilliard (‘22) shot towards the net, he faced two Wiregrass Ranch High School defenders. Leaping for the net, Hillard was able to get past the Bulls defense and score. Photo by Sofia Chianella

SPORTS

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The upcoming 2021 movie madness

As 2021 begins, viewers are able to get excited for new movies coming to them in theaters and other streaming platforms

Keanu Reeves will star in this fiction action film, planning to be released December 22, 2021. Matrix 4 will also include Carrie-Anne Moss, co-starring next to Reeves.

On May 28th, 2021, Fast and Furious fans will be able to enjoy the ninth movie of this blockbuster series, following the exciting lives of Dominic Toretto and his crew.

Spy James Bond, played by Daniel Craig, is on a mission to find a kidnapped scientist while keeping the public safe. This iconic movie will be released on April 2, 2021.

In this sci-fi movie, humanity is trying to wipe out both Godzilla and Kong, in hope of getting their planet back to normal. This movie will be air on May 21st, 2021.

This franchise movie will be released theaters near you March 5th, 2021, giving the audience a look into a mother and her two children’s many chilling ghost encounters.

Return of the live, in person, theaters After the spring shut down Broadway due to COVID-19, students predict what future of the live theater shows will look like RIley Curie backpage editor With the arrival of two new COVID-19 vaccines, some hope returned for things to return back to normal. Among those are Theater and live production.

Broadway shut down last spring with New York City’s first lockdown and has not opened back up since. The normally busy street remains closed and empty with no one in sight. Although there is no set in stone plans for the future of theater, fans predict that the reopening will be exciting.

Theater allows for people to

come together for one cause.

It brings people that normally would never be together through songs and stories. Isabella Napoli (’21) performs on stage and enjoys connecting with other people.

“My favorite part about theater and live performance is meeting new people and connecting with the audience when you’re on stage. Every audience is different, so it’s a lot of fun to figure out which direction to take a performance based on what they like to see,” Napoli said.

Not only was broadway canceled in spring 2020, but the local theaters also got shut

down. Actors and performers all Virtual performances and sing over the country put their lives a longs’ took the place of live on hold. Gavin Gallagher (’22) performances over the summer. who participates in local theater Since there is no set in stone had a performance plan for the comeback of As someone canceled due to broadway and musicals who enjoys both COVID-19. besides slow rollouts once watching theater “As someone the vaccine is distributed, and performing, who enjoys both live theater has been [the shutdown] was devastating. watching theater at a standstill. Kole Gavin and performing, Kemple (’22) believes that Gallagher (‘22) [the shutdown] was continuing to do virtual devastating. I was substitutes will help keep looking forward to a performance the musical magic alive.

I had coming up that had to be “I think they should look into canceled. All I could think about doing more virtual performances was all the work my friends and of songs. Not even necessarily I put into the show that got the whole production, but just a wasted,” Gallagher said. live showing of the cast members

from their home singing. It could be a good way to raise money and keep the broadway spirit alive while also being safe and aware,” Kemple said.

Scientists predict that the majority of the population will get vaccinated closer to summer with children receiving it even later. This will bring the world closer to running theaters like normal. Predictions from directors include having a set capacity, shows opening one at a time, and only a certain number of shows being open at a time.

Safety remains a priority with people waiting at home for the return of the live performance.

Universally, music brings us together Each genre uses its platform to express what the creator and listener are feeling, which brings friends together musically

Emma Rogers business manager Each genre of music encases different types of ways to deliver messages, and each genre uses its platform to express what the creator and listener feels.

Musicians utilize the contrast principle of music which presents opposite sounding ideas to create one song that is not monotonous to listen to.

Over quarantine, users on TikTok decided to create a new musical production. Broadway noticed the work people on the app put in and created the latest Broadway production of “Ratatouille” to be completely

14

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virtual and feature choreography created by TikTok users.

“I listen to whatever catches my attention. One specific group is musicals, they tell a story, so they have meaning behind them.

Plus because they have to tell a story you get a lot of different types of songs from it. Some of my friends listen to musicals too, but everyone has different taste so some don’t,” Jaslyn Shriver (‘24) said.

Musicals and concerts may be virtual; nonetheless, with the new found down time, artists within the country music genre such as Thomas Rhett and Eric Church are producing new albums to be released during April according

to the “Taste of Country”.

“Country is my go to genre to listen to, but my friends aren’t big fans of listening to it.

Even though we have clashing music tastes, we found a way to compromise with a different genre to listen to when we hang out,” Josiah Wilkins (‘24) said.

New albums of the Hip Hop genre are on the radar for being released during 2021 such as Drake, Travis Scott, and 50 Cent. Drake pushed back his initial release of his new album, “Certified Lover Boy” due to a surgery he received in January 2021, so the release has yet to drop.

“The [hip hop] is fun, and right

ENTERTAINMENT

now it’s a popular genre, which makes it feel more exciting.

Majority of my friends like Hip Hop, but they have different tastes depending on the artist.

For the most part, it’s relatively the same music,” Mina Bashay (‘23) said.

There are opportunities to connect with new people like creating a playlist together or sending songs to one another to slowly emerce each other into a common genre. “As someone who loves to sing, I think music and performing is something very important, and brings everyone together,” Hailee Brown (‘22) said.

Hailee Brown (‘22) enjoys the once in a lifetime experience of the 2020 Grammy Awards show. “This was a eyeopener for me, with the world of music, I’ll miss seeing shows and musicals in person,” Brown said.

Photo provided by Brown

Forces against protests must be equal An editorial on the inconsistency in Federal Law Enforcement and the National Guard against protesting groups in the U.S. On Wednesday, Jan. 6, 2021, former President Donald Trump’s supporters gathered at President’s Park for Trump’s “Save America” rally. During the President’s speech, he claimed Democrats committed voter fraud.

Not long after Trump’s speech, his followers took his orders to march down Pennsylvania Avenue to the United States Capitol, where rioters made their way onto the inauguration platform and forced open the doors. This astonished many Americans because Capitol Police knew of the scheduled rally days prior and should have been on guard, especially since Congress was meeting to confirm the Electoral College votes for the Presidential election.

Intrusion into the Capitol was caused not only by former President Trump’s words that day and the days prior but by a lack of security.

During this riot, there were no signs of Federal Law Enforcement or the National Guard, unlike the summer when Black Lives Matter protests were prominent, primarily in Minneapolis after George Floyd’s case. In fact, on Jan. 6, police were not prepared with the same gear as they were during the Black Lives Matter protests.

Defensive items present during the summer gatherings include riot gear, tear gas, shields, zipties, and rubber bullets. These items were nowhere in sight on Jan. 6.

According to a Washington

Post interview with Kim Dine, chief of the Capitol police from 2012 to 2016, there should have been no way that the rioters could be so close to the Capitol Building, let alone up the steps.

Dine also was surprised that rioters were not immediately arrested upon breaking into the Capitol.

“It’s like watching a real-life horror movie. I mean, we train and plan and budget every day, basically, to have this not happen. How it happened I can’t figure it out. We protect the people, the place, and the process that makes us the United States. That’s why we’re there. The people, the place, the process all were attacked.” Dine told The Washington Post.

On multiple videos and

photographs posted online, Capitol officers were seen taking photos with the rioters and opening barricades. Police misconduct allowed these illegal activities, causing injuries and the death of at least five people In defense of the situation, claims were made that there was no sign of upcoming violence, despite crowding around the Capitol as early as Mon., Jan. 4. Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez shared details of her experience on Instagram live Feb. 2. Shestated that other congressional staff warned of violence; yet, Capitol Police leadership told them they had everything under control.

“Essentially what Capitol Police told the house [administration] is, ‘Don’t worry, all of the plans

are taken care of. We can’t tell you the details because telling you the details may leak, and we don’t want people who are trying to plan harm to know the details of our security plan,’” OcasioCortez said.

Capitol Police and National Guard should have been prepared for the situation and prevented the Capitol breach.

There should have been more than a waist-high fence.

There should have not been any deaths, let alone two law enforcement suicides from guilt and shame. The storming of the Capitol should have never been allowed to happen. This storming was the fault of a lack of thought put into Law Enforcement’s actions and the National Guard’s absence.

Disaster or different? Debating gun laws

Seniors express mixed emotions on changes to their final year

Reflecting on Parkland, students’ opinions vary on gun control

Valerie Farrar

Hailey Kroll

lifestyles editor

editor-in-chief

Since Kierstynn Stefanik’s (‘21) freshman year, she dreamed of how much fun her senior year would be. However, COVID-19 put a stop to many of these plans. According to a poll of J.W. Mitchell High School seniors, cancellations and limitations have about 42% of seniors feeling their year is ruined.

“I feel that our senior year is ruined because there are so many restrictions upon us. For instance, we had no homecoming, no pep rallies, no senior picnic, no guarantee for prom, Grad Bash, senior breakfast, or even graduation.

We’ve all been waiting for our senior year since we were freshmen, so for this to be the outcome is super unfortunate. School itself is hard to get through, especially without the fun incentives that we were originally supposed to have,” Stefanik said.

Stefanik is not the only senior who feels her idealized experience has been ruined.

Julia Walter (‘21) decided to take her classes online this year in order to protect herself and her high-risk family from getting sick.

“I switched to online classes this year, but I think I would have enjoyed them more had I gone back to school in person. I’ve also found it more difficult to participate in several of the clubs I am in, like Students for Service and Mu Alpha Theta. However, I feel like these changes are completely justified. Of course it’s a bummer that we’re missing out on a normal senior year, but in the end it’s protecting the health of our community,” Walter said.

On the other hand, Maya Savoie (‘21) believes that while COVID-19 has made her senior year different, it is

Maya Savoie (‘21), Hannah Long (‘21), and Sophia Morgan (‘21) dress up in togas for their final “first” home football game The student section smiles despite the required masks.

Photo provided by Nick Costantino (‘21).

not completely ruined. Although, she recognizes the difficulties presented by the school’s contact tracing policy.

“I am still hopeful. I hope they offer our prom, graduation, and senior breakfast.

However, it’s a lot easier to be quarantined now because if you sit by someone with corona, you’re automatically sent home, which affected me when I was sent home for a week. Almost everyone I know has been quarantined at some point. It made it extremely hard with AP and DE classes,” Savoie said.

Between masks, quarantining, and event limitations, the changes cultivated a senior year with unprecedented challenges.

Whether the senior class feels this has ruined their senior experience varies, depending on their outlook and how they are individually affected.

who believe the right way to protect citizens from shootings such as the one in Parkland is to increase the amount of Nearing three years since the shooting guns. Blake Delaney (‘23), for example, at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High thinks school staff should be armed.

School in Parkland, Florida on Feb. “After finding out about it, I thought 14, 2018, the debate over gun reform schools should allow administrators or continues. Since the attack, advocacy teachers to hold weapons to protect the for greater means of protection arose students in case of something like this to whether that be stricter gun laws or happen again. I’m very two sided about increasing the number of armed peoples this movement because I believe there is a in case of emergency. way we can control guns, but taking them The fatal shooting left lasting impacts away all together is not the right move. If on students, resulting in differing opinions we were to do this, on the matter. Syieda it would be putting Williams (‘21) reflects our lives in more on the events, and danger because I think it has opened the expresses her stance on someone will get a eyes of our generation to increased gun reform. gun somehow and “I remember silence the bigger picture of the then how would we in my class. I remember defend ourselves,” violence of this world and some classmates saying Delaney said. that change needs to be that their friends or There have been made in order to stop it. relatives went to that advancements on school. I felt confused. both sides of the Erik I feel as if there should argument. In March be more control on gun 2018, Florida laws. There should be passed the Marjory background checks as Stoneman Douglas well as psychological evaluations before High School Public Safety Act that raised owning a gun,” Williams said. the minimum age for purchasing guns to Never Again MSD, the student-led 21, set waiting periods, and established committee that organized March for the need for background checks. Then in Our Lives works to increase attention to Feb. 2019, the House of Representatives gun related issues, specifically to inspire passed the universal background checks younger generations to become involved. bill, which is deemed the most major Students like Erik Hendrickson (‘21) agree federal gun legislation in over two that they actively meet their goal of decades by Refinery 29. However, in May uplifting others to participate.

2019, Governor Ron Desantis signed a “I think it has opened the eyes of our bill for the “armed guardian” program, generation to the bigger picture of the allowing each Florida county to allow the violence of this world and that change arming of teachers. The increased interest needs to be made in order to stop it,” in younger generations has re-sparked Hendrickson said. the debate on both sides of the argument On the other side stands students with positives and negatives for each.

Hendrickson (‘21)

OPINIONS

HOOFBEAT

15

ACT & SAT have too much power Test scores continue to be impacted by socioeconomic status and test anxiety which unequally affect students Alexa Grubbs staffer Standardized testing divides students. The SAT and ACT, play significant parts in the college admissions process.

In 2017, the International Association for College Admission Counseling, representing 3,000 school counselors, issued a statement that it lost confidence in the ACT and College Board, who creates and administers the SAT. Consequently, leading to the belief that the SAT and ACT should have less impact on the college admissions.

After the highly publicized 2019 college admissions

bribery scandal, the testing and admissions process has been questioned, especially concerning student’s socioeconomics impacting their test outcomes. The Washington Post reported that students from families earning more than a $200,000 yearly income, averaged a score of 1714, while students averaged a score of 1326 if they came from a family earning under $20,000 a year.

“Those tests promote social inequality, because those who have more money and time on their hands are able to obtain resources that will greatly benefit their scores and test-taking ability,” said Justice

Sales (‘21).

Students with test anxiety also face difficulty when test taking. According to psychologist Richard Driscoll of the American Test Anxieties association, a study estimates that 16 percent of college and high school students have high test anxiety and 18 percent have moderately high test anxiety.

“The SAT/ACT should have less impact on college admissions because some people have bad anxiety when it comes to testing and just simply aren’t good test takers. Someone could even be having a bad test day,” said Taylor Harpley (‘22).

Despite test cancellations in the spring and summer of 2020, the Tampa Bay Times reported that for the 2020 college admissions in Florida universities, the SAT/ACT requirement would not be waived despite the pandemic.

Still, steps are already being taken to reduce the SAT’s impact.

“More and more people have been speaking up about standardized testing and their negative opinions on it, and that may cause a change in the future,” said Alina McCoy (‘21).

All in all, the SAT and ACT should permanently have less impact on college admissions.

Keeping test scores on the board Testing scores of the SAT and ACT and their requirement for colleges applications aid with new circumstances Tori Marjain entertainment editor The Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT) and American College Testing (ACT) began last year for juniors and seniors.

College preparation for juniors and seniors this year started with a rocky beginning due to COVID-19 interfering with testing, especially during 2020. Despite all of this, SAT and ACT testing of the 20-21 school year continued and students who will test continuously work hard.

College admissions use testing scores to get a general idea of what students score in certain areas of

academics. These scores show your readiness for college work. Students can work on improving in areas they did not score in well. Most four-year colleges require a submission of test scores and a few two-year colleges recommend them.

There’s lots of controversy about colleges using test scores to decide whether to accept a student or not.

The SAT and ACT evaluate skills you need to succeed in college, which makes it essential for colleges to use these scores when admitting new students. Some studies show standardized testing scores help to predict a

student’s success in college, especially in the first crucial year.

“It’s more of a cumulative way to measure how well a student utilizes time management skills and working under pressure,” Grace Livingston (‘21) said.

Colleges can use test scores to decide course placement of students who were accepted and place them in classes based on their skill level.

Standardized tests also can qualify students for certain college scholarships.

“SAT scores are important for colleges to use in my opinion as you can gain scholarships from them. This

is an advantage for juniors and seniors in the application process as well,” Antonella Nunez (‘22) said.

SAT and ACT scores aid students greatly in their first crucial year at college.

“I feel like the SAT and ACT are good for students to take and submit with their college applications. They give colleges a good look at how well you do in certain areas and help them decide your placement,” Vann Jones (‘22) said.

The requirement of SAT and ACT scores for college applications helps students start out on the right track for the next chapter of their life.