The Hoofbeat, Issue 3 Volume 20 March 2022

March

2022

the

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

Issue 3 Volume 20

hoofbeat

“I love the community [at Starkey Market] and how friendly everyone is. I also enjoy the live music and the events they have for the community,” Emily Triglia (‘22) said. (Page 6-7) Photo by Emma Diehl

Issue Three Table of

Contents (pg. 10)

News (page 3)

Photo by Ashley Hoskins

(pg. 5)

Photo by Hanna Carberry-Simmering

•GEM Middle Eastern awareness •Shortage of cars due to high demand •National English Honor Society read out loud project

Lifestyles (pages 4-5) •History and celebration of St. Patrick’s Day •Important upcoming senior dates •Easy promposal DIY ideas •Eco-friendly •Nutritional facts from athletes

Centerspread (pages 6-7) •10 ways to spend your 10 days of spring break

Sports (pages 8-9)

(pg. 6)

Photo by Emma Diehl

(pg. 8)

Photo by Michelle Fetz

(pg. 3)

Photo by Keira Walter

(pg. 8)

Photo by Alyssa Baker

•Varsity cheer team goes to states •Boys weightlifting season and common goals •Girls varsity soccer •Varsity boys soccer recap •JV boys basketball recap •Gregg Schindler February and March Athletes of the Month •JV boys and girls soccer combined recap

Entertainment (page 10) •New seasons of T.V. shows on streaming services •Wind ensemble trumpet players qualify for the live rounds •2022 Florida State Fair

Opinions (page 11) •Social media’s effect on mental health •Genocide and China •Standing for the pledge

Back Page (page 12) •Going to prom single v.s. taken Connect with us on Twitter and Instagram at

@mhshoofbeat

Check out our online newspaper:

jwmhshoofbeat.com

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HOOFBEAT

CONTENTS

Editorial

Policy

Published online throughout the year, and in print four times per 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.

Hoofbeat Staff Editors

Emma Diehl

Ashley Hoskins

editor-in-chief

editor-in-chief

Alexa Grubbs

Sofia Chianella

bus. manager/ lifestyles editor

ent./ opinions editor

Susan McNulty adviser

Reporters Aerial Stonis

Bella Melby-Mazzei Hanna CarberrySimmering Keira Walter Luke Cartiglia Mattox Sartori Maya Hernandez

GEM Club Middle Eastern awareness

Members of the GEM Club come together by bringing awareness to the Middle Eastern communites during difficult times Keira Walter staff reporter The Global Empowerment Movement Club (GEM) members turned their attention toward the front of the classroom as Sama Saleh (‘25) shared topics about hate and stereotypes of the Middle Eastern community. Saleh’s parents were born in Iraq and moved to America.

On Wed., Jan. 27, at the ninth GEM meeting the co-presidents of the club, Sofia Chianella (‘23) and Brooke Ealy (‘23), welcomed Saleh to the floor to represent the Middle East.

According to Saleh, there are 20 middle eastern

countries, two of which are not Arab countries, including Palestine, Egypt, Iraq, and Syria. Saleh informed the GEM Club members of the religions, culture, and products from the Middle East.

“The Middle Eastern world includes Muslims, Jews, and Christians. In all Middle Eastern countries Arabic is the official language. Eastern and some southern shores of the Mediterranean sea is where the Middle East is located. So daily things that we use, such as coffee, tooth brushes, and telling time were all invented in the Middle East,” Saleh said.

After Saleh shared some of her facts about her homeland, she played

a video on the screen.

The video depicted Arab Americans telling their story about how they have been treated by their friends and strangers because of where she’s from. Following the end of her video she shared what she experienced in school and with friends.

“Some bad issues Arab Americans have experienced include racism in school, like discrimination against culture and their homeland. I, for one, have been made fun of because of my food and how different it looks. And I have also been mistreated by teachers just because I am from a different background, I was graded biasly and they kept

talking about politics,” Saleh said.

Even through her bad experiences Saleh still shared positives. During the meeting, Saleh was very open to questions and made the meeting not just about hate and stereotypes.

“There are also good experiences that include people that are openminded, and value what you have to say about your culture. I had a history teacher last year and we were talking about Iraq.

She had said misleading information about that country, and because I’m from there she offered for me to talk about the country because she was not that educated about it,” Saleh said.

She, as a black teenager, At the end of Saleh’s plans to talk about her speech she introduced the activity of the meeting. Ms Heather Daniel (FAC) brought in evil eye gems, so that the members of the club could make bracelets to wear throughout school. The evil eye originates from the Middle East and is known to bring Talking up in the front of the class, Saleh presents her experiences as an Arab in good luck and school and everyday life. Taking place at the protect whoever GEM meeting, they take up the new topic wears it. Flowing of Middle Eastern awareness, starting with into the next Saleh’s story. month, GEM will story and bring awareness be bringing awareness to to the school, starting with Black History month with GEM. Ceyphora Wamba (‘24).

Shortage of cars due to high demand

With demand outpacing supply from semiconductor chips, students around campus must work longer and harder for a new car

Mattox Sartori staff reporter According to Kelly Blue Book, new and used cars have been in high demand, forcing the prices to rise significantly higher than previous years, leaving customers on the sidelines waiting for cars.

Due to a shortage of semiconductor chips, which help improve the engine’s efficiency and lower emissions, and supply chain problems, car

prices increased by 13% in under a year.

Sean Tucker, an author at www.Kbb.com explains the increase in car prices.

“The average new car in America sold for $46,329 in November. That’s $5,392 more than just one year before — a 13% gain.

It’s just $393 higher than the average at the end of October – an increase of 0.7% and a slower rate of climb than Americans have grown accustomed to in 2021,” Tucker said.

High school students who plan to save money for their first car have to start putting in extra work to raise an additional 13% towards the expense of their car.

Kassidy Von Hussen (‘24) put in extra work this year to afford her first car.

“At the beginning of the

year in 2021, I had been looking for affordable and safe cars to save up for,

and with a long time of

research I finally had my mind set on a used BMW ranging around $15,000.

After a year of working my minimum wage job, and some help from my mom and grandmother, I was able to reach the $15,000 goal. When I checked the site to attempt to contact the seller, I noticed that the price of the car had been raised by an additional two grand, making the new cost of the car $17,000 plus tax. After realizing the price change

of the vehicle, I plan to work an additional two months towards achieving the additional $2,000, if the price does not increase anymore,” Vonhussen said.

In order for students to reach their money goal, an additional amount of work needs to occur. Students looking for a car can check www.kbb.com and https:// www.cars.com/shopping/ cheap/ to help keep their car cost low.

Members of NEHS read their stories

The National English Honors Society takes their members over to the Little Scholars at Dayspring to read to the preschoolers Keira Walter staff reporter

Lined up on their colorful carpet the preschoolers of Dayspring Academy focus their attention at the front of the room as Marissa Haberlin (‘22) reads a Dr. Seuss book to the kids.

Starting this year the National English Honors society (NEHS) took their trip over to the Dayspring academy Little Scholars

preschool to share their children’s stories with the classes.

The NEHS Club provided their members a way to gain volunteer hours while also getting to share an experience with the kids of Dayspring. Continuing her second year in NEHS, Haberlin took her second trip to the preschool and hopes to go again.

“I love it, when I’m older I want to be a pediatrician

so it’s really nice to already be interacting with kids and they are really cute. I definitely want to go back again,” Haberlin said.

Taking on his first year as President of the club, Kole Kemple (‘22), had expressed his satisfaction with the members and the school’s experience.

“The people there say the kids look forward to it and the members always have positive feedback. The

members actually sign up for more dates than they need to for credit cause they just like doing it so much” Kemple said.

Carter Smith (‘22) and the other members all come to the preschool providing their own childhood books. On Feb. 28 Smith brought his childhood book from home to share with the kids.

This is Smith’s first year in NEHS and he hopes to

come back to the preschool again.

“I was so happy that the kids were so lovely and were so cute and welcome. I brought Wacky Wednesday, all the kids were very Sitting in the front of the class, Haberlin interested and reads a Dr. Seuss book to the preschool they crowded students. Taking her second trip Haberlin around,” Smith plans to return to the school to visit the kids said. again. Photo by Keira Walter

NEWS

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Five last minute ways to prompose If you haven’t promposed to your special someone yet, here are five ways to ask them to the biggest party of the year

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CHANNEL THEIR FAVORITE SHOW

SHOOTING YOUR SHOT

I LIKE YOU A LATTE

RIDING IN STYLE

DONUT SAY NO

Is the person you’re into, into sports?

If so, then this is a option for your promposal. Buy a poster board and then decorate it with a clever quote related to their sport. And while at the store, also buy some sports equipment to give them.

This is the one for coffee fanatics.

Take a trip to Dunkin’ Dounts or Starbucks, and buy a drink for your potential date.

Ask the baristas to write “Will you go to prom with me?” on the cup and then give them the drink at the right moment.

Grab a couple car window markers and write your promposal on their car. If you can, get their keys and fill their car with a bunch of balloons.

When, they walk out to their car after school or before going to their favorite restaurant, they’ll see what you have done.

Donuts are an easy way to prompose.

Go to a donut shop, order your future date’s favorite array of donuts, and then ask for the workers to write “Prom?”, with a donut for each individual letter. Give them the donut box and when they open it up, they’ll see the promposal in icing.

Figure out what your future date’s favorite TV show is and then create a poster centered around the show.

Next grab a gift related to their favorite Friends or Office reference, and that makes a quality promposal.

Healthy competition

Athletes discuss how good nutrition impacts their performance in sports Luke Cartiglia

care of your body. You could go through a company or a body coach at places such as TB12 so you can get on a nutrition plan Many athletes prioritize as well as get workouts to stay building strength, practicing in shape. You can also research hard, and building mental what you should be doing for toughness in their sports. the specific However one goals you crucial aspect in want to sports that some Nutrition is so crucial achieve athletes overlook because it makes such as is the significance or breaks your getting of good nutrition. stronger or performance on the Olivia Desiante (‘25) developing field. finds the importance more in having good Alexis speed. For nutrition and example, treating your body Medical like a temple.

News “Nutrition is Today suggests including protien important to me because I into each meal, eating whole workout a lot and want to make grains, eating more greens, sure I’m staying in shape and a eating healthy fats, and more. lot of what you eat affects how “When I am in a game and I well you do,” Desiante said. ate the wrong thing that day, There are many different or did not do what I needed to avenues you can go down to do that day, then I do not do as learn more about how to take well as I should’ve for my team,” staff reporter

Barber (‘23)

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LIFESTYLES

William Fliss (‘23) said.

Some also say that having a nutritional lifestyle can make them feel positive about not only themselves, but also about their team around them. Overall, they attribute good nutrition to their outlook in a game. Softball player Alexis Barber (‘23) has discovered how influencial good nutrition really is to her performance during games.

“Nutrition is so crucial because it makes or breaks your performance on the field. It also makes you a positive source to be around as your mindset changes due to what you’re having,” Barber said.

Many athletes see the importance of nutrition. Even for non-athletes, having a nutritious diet can be a key factor in having a successful day and living a healtrhy lifestyle. More information for healthy living, including tips for good nutrition, can be found at Harvard’s School of Public Health website.

Irish you a happy day Senior Dates St. Patrick’s Day traditions celebrated by students and their loved ones

Aerial Stonis staff reporter During Ms. Tara Campbell’s (FAC) years at Ryerson University in Toronto, Ontario; she celebrated St. Patrick’s Day by going to pubs and drinking green beer with her friends.

St. Patrick’s Day is an IrishCatholic holiday, however it is now celebrated by many other cultures and religions. Drinking at pubs, wearing green, eating corned beef and cabbage, and having parades, are many ways people celebrate the holiday, but how did that come to be?

Most St. Patrick’s Day traditions did not start in Ireland, but in the United States. According to history.com, the first recorded Irish-American “celebration” of St. Patrick’s Day was in Boston in 1737, which contrasts with the original gloomy religious services and feasts. Over time, the holiday grew in popularity as more Irish immigrated to the United States. Major American cities now have parades, bars offer St. Patty’s drinks and events, and companies create and market products for the holiday.

Every year as it nears March

17, McDonald’s comes out with a “Shamrock Shake” in honor of the holiday.

The green, minty milkshake was introduced in 1970 and has been sold over 60 million times, according to Fox News. After Christopher Saintvalle (‘23) Courtney Thurber (‘23) enjoys her shamrock shake from her local McDonald’s in late February. She waits each year for tried his first the shake, which is only available during the proximity of McDonald’s Shamrock Shake St.Patrick’s Day. “I like shamrock shakes because they are last year, he is a limited edition drink that tastes really good. I like that it comes around St. Patrick’s Day because I’m Irish so I grew excited to get up believing in the leprechaun and have always celebrated them again. my Irish heritage.” Photo by Aerial Stonis “I drink them the tradition going, especially if I around St.Patty’s day because it have kids one day, I’m definitely brings out the festiveness of the going to pull out traditions I did holiday,” Saintvalle said. with my grandparents,” Pekarek Michael Pekarek (‘24) said. spends every St. Patrick’s Day For those wanting to with a family dinner at his participate in St. Patrick’s Day grandmother’s house. She festivities this year, check out prepares corned beef and the “Easy Corned Beef and cabbage, a popular St. Patty’s Cabbage” recipe on allrecipes. day meal. Pekarek plans on com and remember to wear passing the tradition on for green on March 17 to celebrate future generations this year.

“I think it’s important to keep

Always thinking green Around campus students make simple changes to help stay eco-friendly Hanna Carberry-Simmering staff reporter Only one Earth exists, and according to National Geographic pollution, burning fossil fuels and deforestation are main factors to the damage that exist today. Students like Reese Norwood (’22) become more eco-friendly in hopes of doing their part to help the earth.

Norwood originally got inspired to start being more eco-friendly after she took AP Environmental Science and noticed how people affect the environment.

Simple things like taking shorter and colder showers can help by saving water and energy.

Northern Arizona University reported that the average 10minute shower uses about 18 gallons of water.

“I take shorter showers, try not to take long drives, and turn off the lights. Basic stuff that all people can do,” Norwood said.

Other simple ways to help include using less plastic. instead of using plastic shopping bags and water bottles, use reusable

alternatives. According to the United States Environmental Protection Agency, instead of making new products that produce greenhouse gasses and play a role in climate change, we can reduce and reuse them.

Not only does it help cut down on waste in landfills but it helps save money and sustain our environment for future generations.

Maisa Patankar (’24) uses reusable water bottles and metal straws to help keep the plastic out of the ocean.

“All the documentaries of turtles with [plastic straws] stuck in their noses. it was just awful to me. I hated all the plastic in the ocean, especially if we can change it, I think we should try to,” Patankar said.

Eight million tons of plastic end up in the ocean every year according to a 2018 UN Environment report. These plastics harm all different types of animals like sea turtles, fish, sea birds, whales, dolphins, seals, sea lions, and many more.

An estimated 100,000 marine mammals die every year from

eating plastic pollution as WWF Australia reported. There is a chance that plastic microfibers will be in the fish used today to make many meals. Keeping plastic out of the ocean not only helps marine life, it helps keep food safe too.

Gianna Perugini (’22) the president of the Ecology Club, was inspired to start being ecofriendly because of her passion for animals.

“One thing I can suggest to others trying to be more ecofriendly is patience and don’t get frustrated. Today’s society makes it super hard to stay sustainable and no one is perfect. Every little step leads to big change, so start small and gradually transition to a more eco-friendly lifestyle when possible,” Perugini said.

When becoming eco-friendly, it doesn’t matter how small of a step you take because any step is an improvement. Some other examples are carpooling, turning off the lights, making sure to reuse what you can, or something bigger, such as going to clean-ups, and only using biodegradable products.

Here are the important dates for seniors

Prom Promise Wednesday, March 9

Prom Promise is a dramatic reenactment of a drunk driving accident with students as the actors. All students are encouraged to attend to see the consequences of drunk driving first-hand.

Prom

Saturday, March 26 Innisbrook is a golf resort in Palm Harbor that holds prom yearly. Tickets for prom can be bought on Rycor.

Grad Bash Friday, April 8

Buses depart at 4 p.m. and return at 4 a.m. See Ms. Heather Daniel in room 811 with any questions.

Senior Yearbook Distribution Friday, April 29

Seniors who ordered a yearbook get it during 7th period and get to join their fellow seniors at a signing party.

Senior Night of Excellence Tuesday, May 17

Seniors are awarded with their cords and stoles from clubs and also receive their cord relating to their grade point average.

Senior Breakfast Tuesday, May 24

From 9 a.m. to 12 p.m, the annual Senior Breakfast is held at Spartan Manor.

Graduation Saturday, June 11

Seniors graduate at 6 p.m. to roughly 8:30 p.m. at the Sundome. Students can invite friends and family to the event, with up to as many guests as they want.

LIFESTYLES

HOOFBEAT

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10

ways to spend 10 days of

Spring Break 1

Photo from Creative Commons

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Egmont Key This trip departs from the Bay Pier inside Fort De Soto.

Departure Times: 11 a.m. Tues. – Sun. 8 a.m. to sunset, 365 days a year No fee required Must travel to island by boat

Painting With a Twist Prices range from $37- $60 per person, depending on your chosen painting, surface size (i.e. canvas, wood board, pallet) and event duration.

Monday-Saturday 12 p.m. to 5 p.m.

Photo from Creative Commons

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Photo from Creative Commons Kennedy Space Center 1-Day Admission Tickets Best $60.99 located on Merritt Island, Florida, Open Sunday-Saturday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Check out old space shuttles and mars rovers, eat astronaught ice cream, and more!

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Photo from Creative Commons Escape Room March 16 all day, $25.95 8042 Old Country Road 54 New Port Richey, Florida 34693 Wednesday & Thursday: 12 p.m. to 9 p.m.

Friday: 12 p.m. to 10:30 p.m.

Saturday: 12 p.m. to 12 p.m.

Sunday: 12 p.m. to 6 12 p.m.

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Starkey Market

Photo by Emma Diehl

3460 Starkey Boulevard, New Port Richey, Florida Open SundaySaturday 8 a.m.- 8 p.m.

Pick blueberries or strawberries, go visit the cows, buy some coffee and ice cream, or just hang out with friends!

Photo by Emma Diehl

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Photo from Creative Commons Golden Spirit Alpaca Ranch 10937 Tarpon Springs Road Odessa, FL For more informtion, call: Phone: 813-382-5733 Cell: 727-809-2253 OR Email info@goldenspiritalpaca.com Meet local alpacas, and purchase products made from alpaca down (no animals were harmed)

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Photo from Creative Commons Odessa Wildlife Rescue Resort and Sanctuary 18404 Rustic Woods Trail, Odessa, FL Check Odessawildlife.org for more information about private tours and photo opportunities Meet zebras, horses, goats, alpacas, and more interesting animals!

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Highland Ax Throwing Friday & Saturday: 6 p.m. – 10 p.m Sunday: 1 p.m. – 5 p.m.

Parents or guardians must accompany throwers under 18 years of age.

Parents need to sign a waiver for throwers under 18 years old.

Photo from Creative Commons

Galaxy Bowling Friday 10 p.m. – 1 a.m.

3 hours unlimited bowling $14.50 per person Saturday 7 p.m. – 1 a.m.

Two hours of unlimited bowling $14.50 per person *skates included* 8631 Old CR 54 New Port Richey, FL

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Photo from Creative Commons

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Winter Park Sidewalk Art Festival March 18-20 The festival runs from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Friday and Saturday, and on Sunday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

It will take place in Central Park and along Park Avenue in Winter Park, Florida.

Lifting to the very top Kickin’ it up a notch Boys weightlifting team plans on making their way to districts Mattox Sartori staff reporter The boys weightlifting season starts off with a 4-2 record as of March. 2, and discusses their plans to improve this season.

To prepare for the season, the weightlifting team practiced diligently before going into the school season.

Aaron Waxler (‘25) explains the work that the team puts in during and after practice and the bonding that is created.

“We work out outside of our regular practices which Is 3-4 times a week at school. I have a gym at home and do CrossFit to practice lifts and workouts,” Waxler said.

With the challenging work that is put in for the weightlifting team, the outcome of the work will significantly affect the team’s future record in the upcoming years.

Niko Ferraro (‘24) explains the significance that will come from the demanding work.

“As the work that we put into this season progresses, our ability to lift more weight as the season goes on increases,” Ferraro said.

The hard work put in outside of school at the gyms helps students on the team bond outside of their normal practices along with many of the new teammates.

“I think that we have potential in the coming year or two to really do great.

Some people are just starting to learn technique and build strength which takes time. Workouts outside of school is mostly when we get together and bond, many of the teammates go to crunch fitness to work out,” Waxler said.

The workouts that are performed everyday are all a part of the weightlifting

teams plan to win in districts.

“The hard work that the team puts in on and off practice, is all a part of the goal to win in districts,” Ferraro said.

Throughout the remainder of the spring season, the weightlifting team faces off against multiple district teams, building their way to up.

“I always make it my priority to attend every practice and put in more reps under the bar to eventually improve and reflect during the competitions. Every guy on the team gives it their all. If you come to any meet, you can witness how the atmosphere transfers from weight room to weightroom. Our team is very uplifting and supportive which makes it easier to reach a common goal at the end of the day,” Anthony Bucaria (‘25) said.

Aaron Waxler (‘25) lifts the bar, with weights attached, above his head during practice. The team plans on working hard to make it districts.

Waxler clean and jerked 165 lbs against Springstead and River Ridge High school Photo by Evan Carpenter

Girls varsity soccer wraps up as they prepare for next season Maya Hernandez staff reporter Outside of the left-field, Mekenzie Lorenzetti (’22) found herself with no nearby opponents, wound her leg back, and shot the ball towards her teammate in midfield during the home game against the Seminole Warhawks on Jan. 13, tying 1-1.

Top-performing player of the ’21-’22 season, Lorenzetti began as an intricate part of the defense, later switching between forward and midfielder, to add an offensive spark to the team’s overall performance.

“This season I definitely performed way better than I thought I was going to. I felt confident in what I was doing and wasn’t stressed out about anything. I was actually having a lot of fun being out there, especially for it being my last year,” Lorenzetti said.

Maintaining a 57% win rate this season, the girls varsity soccer team’s highestscoring game finished with a box score of 14-0 against the Anclote Sharks. However, the team’s more competitive games remain number one in enjoyment for the girls. Maya Agren (’22) recalls her favorite game of the season.

“Our second game against East Lake was probably my favorite because it was really close and we all wanted the win.

Even though we ended up losing, we all tried our hardest and that really made it one of the best games to play this season,” Agren said.

The team placed third overall in districts behind Land O’ Lakes and Sunlake, one place higher than the previous season.

The midfielder, Evan Pippio (’24) played in the final match of the season between

Mekenzie Lorenzetti (’22) goes to kick the ball in their Jan. 13 game against Seminole High School. Photo by Alyssa Baker

Sunlake, losing 7-1.

“Even though we didn’t win playing against Sunlake, it was still a fun match because they were always kind of rivals of us and it was our last game with the seniors, too,” Pippio said.

The girls varsity soccer team learned new methods this season under the leadership of the new coach, Christopher Castro.

“This season, because of Covid, things were still a little strange. Typically I would have summer conditioning weight lifting and mainly conditioning in footwork drills. I am looking to implement that this upcoming summer and fall before the tryouts and season starts. I’m also going to try and do more team building functions or events with this group,” Castro said.

Cheering their way to the state finals The varsity cheer team takes second place at state finals while performing in their last competition for this years season Keira Walter/Bella Melby-Mazzei staff reporters Lining up in their positions, the competition cheer team set off on their final performance of the season at states. On Feb. 1, the team competed at University of Florida in Gainesville, scoring second place in the Medium Division 2 Non-tumbling category. Leading up to the state competition, the team competed in regionals and took second place which sent them straight to finals for states according to Malesa Zullo (‘23).

“We worked our butts of just to hopefully score a high place because we’ve never gone straight to states before. We’ve never made it in second place at states before, so we were super happy to be there,” Zullo said.

This ended Taylor Cook’s (‘22) 12th season of cheer and her first season as

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captain. Cook led her team along with Hailey Dolen (‘22) from regionals to states.

“To get second place at states it took a lot of preparation. We watched our last performances and cleaned up every little imperfection we saw. We practiced twice a week doing full out after full out.

We were super hungry to win, so we did everything in our power to put out our best performance,” Cook said.

Cook and the team faced a lot of challenges throughout the cheerleading season, but were able to come together in the end.

“At the beginning of the season, we did not really have a competition team. We had to kind of pull one together at the last second. We had to deal with some people leaving and some people getting hurt. We just had to dig deep inside of ourselves and find the power to push through the season, and I really think that’s what made

SPORTS

us all come together towards that end,” Cook said.

Going into the competition, the team prepared knowing what they were going to need to do to achieve the best score.

With their practice to improve their stunts, voices, and performance they made school history with the highest score yet at Taking the floor at the UF gymnasium, the cheer team competes for states. “They take into account every detail and mistake in your routine, states.

“They score us based so that’s why its so important to be perfect when you hit the mat at on the difficulty of our states,” Taylor Cook said. Photo by Michelle Fetz stunts, how well we nationals, their state competition marks perform our stunts, based on our cheer, the last of the season. Continuing into the and how loud we were,” Dolen said. next school year, cheerleaders will start After deciding not to continue onto the the season again in the fall for sidelines.

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Every shot counts Fighting for victory JV boys basketball team found strength on and off the court Alexa Grubbs bus. manager/lifestyles editor After school, boys on the J.V. basketball team start dribbling and running drills to get ready for their home game against Hudson High School on Jan. 12. They ended up winning 62 to 16. Playing against a total of 13 other JV teams, they played Fivay, Anclote, and Gulf twice. The head coach for the JV team this season was Mr. Darone Frierson (FAC), who was helped by several assistant coaches, and the varsity coach, Mr. Jason Vetter (FAC), who oversaw the entire basketball organization.

Team shooting guard, Cameron Herzek (‘25) was introduced to basketball by his father when he was younger. He transferred from Gulf High School this year and found basketball as a way to connect to the school.

“I was school-choiced here for the education and to get away from Gulf,

because that was where I came from, but coming here I saw the basketball organization, talked to [Coach] Vetter, and I decided to try out. It was awkward at the beginning, but towards the end of the season we started to connect,” Herzek said.

Benefits of playing high school sports, such as basketball, include improved academic thinking and time management, according to the NYU Dispatch. For Joel Adamski (‘25), playing basketball has been therapeutic and he has created his own pre-game ritual.

“I’m really competitive and enjoy playing. It also helps me get my anger out. I usually get a piece of chocolate cake from Publix [before every game],” Adamski said.

Finishing with a 6 to 10 record, Herzek and Adamski plan to play basketball next year too. Until next season, the JV basketball boys will continue practicing for when they are back on the court.

The boys varsity soccer team makes it to the state semifinals Emma Diehl Editor-in-chief The varsity boys soccer team regular season has come to a close, with the team taking home the regional championship.

Two year varsity team member Medin Kukuljac (‘22), a striker, has consistently scored above the national average for goals, pts, and assists. Kukuljac was the player of the game for the team’s match against Anclote high school on Dec. 13. “[Our] best moment had to be beating Jesuit in the Tampa Bay Invitational back to back seasons. The amount of hard work it took really made it pay off,” Kukuljac said.

Adam Naim (‘25) is one of only two freshmen and has also scored above the national average for assists and points scored throughout the season. His most recent achievements include two points and two assists in one of the team’s latest games against Jesuit and being named

player of the game for the team’s match against Fivay High School. “[I love] all the brotherly love from the freshies to the seniors. Our coaches have helped us tactically and really shown us how to position ourselves on and off the ball. [My favorite moments have to be] hanging out with the team on and off the field and scoring big goals that mean a lot to us,” Naim said.

Kukuljac spoke on how Coach Frick has helped the team to grow over time through drills and training exercises.

“Coach Frick trains us on Fridays and we only shoot on those days. We call those practices Freaky Frick Fridays. The reason I know it has helped me so much is because all my goals this season are almost identical to the drills we did in Freaky Frick Fridays,” Kukuljac said.

The boys are fought it out in their playoffs, winning their regional championship, but losing their state semifinal match against Veira High School.

Gregg Schindler featured athletes

Read about these five athletes at jwmhshoofbeat.com, selected for their stellar athletic performance and leadership skills

Dominick Phanco (‘22)

Photo by Hanna Carberry-Simmering

Izabella Guillan (‘23) Photo by Breanna Mahan

Ava Mance (‘23)

Photo by Adia D’Piazza

Alexander Cortier (‘23)

Taylor Cook (‘22)

Photo by Colson Gantt

Photo by Michelle Fetz

Reflecting on the JV soccer successes Bella Melby-Mazzei staff reporter Girls JV finish out their season strong Manda Khella (‘24) saw many games where the team came together. The team won both times against Gulf with a score of 8-0.

“I think [we did our best during] our first Gulf game. The second [game] was kind of rough, I think we played our best in the East Lake game even though we lost. They were just a challenging team,” Khella said.

Niamh Kirkwood (‘23) plays center midfield, and is one of the four team captains. As a captain, Kirkwood dealt with difficulties like schedules and injuries.

“I guess the [hardest thing about being team captain is the] pressure to be in charge of the team, but we had fun with

it and had a good season, It was just fun getting to know everyone,” Kirkwood said.

In his first full year as coach, Mr. Jason Moenter (FAC) took over the team.

“I felt extremely honored to coach.

They showed hard work and dedication to the sport, and each other from day one, Moenter said.

The coach witnessed the team’s drive and determination to improve, always fighting to the very last whistle.

“I am incredibly proud of each and every player on this team. Everyone had their moments of leadership this season, but all the captains lived up to their title and position,” Moenter said.

On Jan. 11, the girls’ JV soccer team finished their last game against Cypress Creek High School, and ended with a 7-2 record.

Boys JV finds friendship and fun On Jan. 15, the boys’ JV soccer team finished their last game, and completed the season, ending with a 9-5-1 record.

Quentin Hanson (‘25) is a defensive player for the boys JV soccer team.

“We’ve been doing really good, [and] we have a lot of good players this year.

It’s fun because I have friends on the team, and we get along with each other,” Hanson said.

After reflecting, Hanson said that their best game was against Sunlake, on Dec. 12, and the Mustangs came back to score three goals in the second period.

“We were losing two to nothing and then we won three to two. We just did really good that game,” Hanson said.

Cameron McKinney (‘24) is one of the team captains, along with Ace Irwin (‘24). As captains they have more

responsibilities on the team.

“Mostly communicate. If your team is down, you have to pick them back up,” McKinney said.

As well as being one of the captains, McKinney also plays goalie. At one of their last games, he had a chance to score, which rarely happens.

“I did score [at] Berkeley [Prep which was] our last game. They put me in [as a] striker [for] the last five minutes. It’s forward like the person that scores the most goals,” McKinney said.

According to Coach Tim Harrigan (FAC), the boys played every game with heart and determination, training every day.

“I can honestly say [it was] some of the most fun I’ve had coaching in years.

[I’m] looking forward to next season and watching this group of boys become young men,” Coach Harrigan said.

SPORTS

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Triumphant trumpets Time for T.V. Musicians qualify for the Live Round of the National Trumpet Competition

Viewers stream new shows multiple on platforms

Luke Cartiglia

Ashley Hoskins

staff reporter

editor-in-chief

While working at his job, trumpet player Ethan Rogers (‘23) had been informed that he as well as the rest of the Wind Ensemble qualified for the Live Round of the National Trumpet Competition. Right after finding out, he performed a dance nicknamed “the griddy.”

The group prepared for the competition by breaking the music into chunks to identify troubled issues, then breaking it down further by part to find out what they needed to work on.

“A big part of our success is Mr. Dennis Laorenza (FAC), our trumpet ensemble instructor. Mr. Laorenza is a highly accomplished teacher and instructs other trumpet ensembles that had made it to the semifinals in the past. Mr. Laorenza is a great person to be around and will always tell it to you straight, without beating around the bush. This sense of reality makes all of us want to succeed and progress,” Rogers said.

In addition to Laorenza, the group credits Mr. Ryan Harring (FAC), Director of Bands and Orchestra, for guiding the players to reach their highest potential.

“They help us get better by

Tristan Butts (‘23), watches “Stranger Things”, a show set in the 1980s, featuring young teens that witness supernatural forces and government experiments.

“I’ve been watching ‘Stranger Things’ since it came out in 2016. I am excited to watch the fourth season whenever it comes out in mid-2022. I love the show because it’s imaginative and has a lot of colors and visuals that have been innovative for Netflix shows and I want to see more of them. My prediction is that I think Will is going to die, because every season he’s been in severe trouble, and that Jim Hopper ends up living because of the teaser that was aired a year ago,” Butts said.

Ranked no. 1 on the charts as the most-watched Netflix T.V. series, “Outer Banks” remained the show of the summer, reaching over 2 billion viewers back in 2021, after the season 2 release. A huge fan since it first aired back in April 2020, Garrett Bagnall (‘22) prepares for the new season, expecting many unsolved mysterious.

“The show has always been my favorite because I like the area where it takes place and the theme is really good. Even though the main character,

As Ethan Rogers (‘23) and John Habib (‘22) practice during first period, some of the other trumpet players attending the Live Round of the National Trumpet Competition watch them perform their skills. Zander Netwon (‘23), Thompson Borree (‘23), Joivan Ortiz (‘23), and Kaitlyn Ritt (‘22) are attending to the competition with Rogers and Habib. Photo by Sofia Chianella

encouraging us to perform to the best of our ability and push us to strive to be the best musicians we can be,” Thompson Borree (‘23) said.

The competition’s semifinals take place on April 2, for high school level players, and from there, the top ten groups in the nation will be broken down into three groups, for places 1, 2, and 3. The players perform live in a concert hall and it will be adjudicated by highly recognized judges that narrow down the best groups in the nation.

“I think we made it because

we put in the work and worked well as a group. I also credit a lot of our success to Mr. Laorenza. Most of the members in the group now were in it last year, when we also made it.

Unfortunately, due to COVID, we couldn’t travel to nationals and had to submit an online recording last year,” Rogers said.

Making it to the Live Round of the National Trumpet Competition would essentially be like making it to the college football playoffs for trumpets.

They travel to Delaware on April 1 and will return April 3.

Chase Stokes, split up with his co-star Madelyn Cline, I think they’ll still be featured together in the show. The season ended with many of us questioning whether or not they’re going to get the gold, or if we’ll meet his dad, but we’re hoping to find out more information once it comes back,” Bagnall said.

Coming out on Disney Plus, “The Mandalorian” plans on releasing another season in 2022.

Due to COVID-19 protocols, they delayed filming because of the new variant and the significant rise of cases within the past few months. Previously reported, they still plan on releasing a new season, which Lauren Clark (‘25) waited for since 2021.

“I like the show because I’ve always been a huge Star Wars fan and it fits the expectations that I had for, such as action. The show is about “The Mandalorian” becoming who he is and I think he will end up becoming a Jedi.

It is a pretty popular show and I think others are excited as well to watch it when season 3 comes out,” Clark said.

Netflix series, “Stranger Things 4” and “Outer Banks 3” plan for a mid-2022 release, as well as The Mandalorian, set to come out in late 2022. For more information, follow these streaming services on Instagram or Twitter for further updates.

Festivities at the Florida State Fair

Students attended the Florida State Fair as a way to experience fun with friends while getting in the mood for summer Hanna Carberry-Simmering staff reporter With 500,000 people from all over Florida attending the Florida State Fair in 2020, according to their official website, the number sets a high expectation on how many people planned to attend this year from Feb. 10 to Feb. 21. On weekdays the fair opened at 11 A.M. and 10 A.M. on weekends, allowing people who attended the fair to enjoy music, rides, food, and a petting zoo.

Reagan Stephens (’24) went to the fair with her softball team to experience the activities while being active in the community.

“We rode a lot of rides, we won goldfish, pet animals, and ate a lot of food. [Next time] I would ride more of the spinning rides and try different things food wise,” Stephens said.

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HOOFBEAT

The fair had rides such as Wipe Out, the Alpine Bobs, Spider, Sizzler, the Typhoon, and a Ferris wheel. In addition, there were many exhibits, most were animal related like the livestock barn and Giraffic Menagerie. New fair foods were also introduced,including loaded fried pickle nachos, pop rock smoothies, loaded onion rings, deep fried fruit kabobs, and funnel cake tacos.

After Meghana Reddy (’22) went to the fair with five friends, she planned on giving herself more time to enjoy all of the fair activities during her next visit. “ We went on some crazy rides and there was an area with music we spent some time over there.

It wasn’t really the fair that made it fun, it was the people that I was with. It was a good group of friends,” Reddy said.

Going to fairs and other events in the community can be a way to make new memories with your friends and have fun while never running out of things to do, see, or try. This year there was music like Dennis Lee Band, #NoFilter, Holy Rocka Rollaz, Right on Key, Soul Citrus Cowboys, The Broken Hearts Tom Petty, One Man Band and more.

With over 70 different rides at the fair this year, Elijah Lopez (‘22) labeled the variety of rides as his favorite part. “ The rides we went on were really fun and really quick. The expense for one ticket is trouble, it’s a lot of money,” Lopez said.

The Florida state fair ended on Feb. 21. With the Strawberry Festival starting on Mar. 3 going till Mar. 13. Admission for adults are $10 and children five and up can get in for $5, any kids under

ENTERTAINMENT/OPINIONS

five can get in for free. You can also pay extra for a ticket to see headline Entertainment which includes Nelly, Sam Hunt, The Bellamy Brothers, and many more. They have free entertainment as well like eating contests and Battle

of the Bands. If you missed the Florida State Fair and are looking for an opportunity to have fun with friends, the Strawberry Festival is an 11 day festival with something for everyone.

Every year the Florida State Fair has a petting zoo with animals like goats, pigs, and cows. They also have other animals that are not included in the petting zoo like the welsh ponies with the live carousel. Photo by Ashley Hoskins

Protest of the Pledge of Allegiance

As more tensions arise in the United States, students debate whether or not they want to sit or stand during the Pledge Maya Hernandez staff reporter At 8:35 a.m. Jacob Lee (’23) remains in his seat as the rest of his peers stand for the Pledge of Allegiance during the morning announcements. Beginning at five years old, standing for the pledge has become habitual in the lives of American students.

First enacted in 1892, the pledge was recited in classrooms across the nation to recognize the 400th year of Columbus’ discovery of the Americas, along with the installation of U.S. flags on school grounds. Identifying as non-patriotic, Lee expresses his refusal to stand for the pledge.

“I do not stand for the pledge because I believe when you do something in a ritualistically

synchronized manner the more complacent you become to realworld issues that are occurring. I believe that I have a right to do what I want to do and I’d like that to be respected,” Lee said.

Written by Francis Bellamy in the late 1800s, the Pledge of Allegiance acts as a promise of devotion to the United States of America. Cooper Sabatini (’23) believes the pledge honors those who have died in war and the soldiers who currently serve.

“The Pledge of Allegiance represents America and I feel like if you do not stand for the pledge you are disrespecting the soldiers who fought for our freedom by sacrificing their lives,” Sabatini said.

When reciting the Pledge of Allegiance, it is not uncommon

Struggling

with

for people to contemplate all aspects of the country they are pledging loyalty to. Immigrating to the United States a few years ago, Paulina Benitez Corral (’23), challenges the expectation of standing for the people who did not fight for her freedom.

“It’s not right for people to come up to me and tell me that veterans have fought for my freedom when they didn’t.

I urge people to think twice about why they stand and about what the pledge represents and ask themselves, ‘Is that being fulfilled for all people in America currently?’” Corral said.

Debate continues to spread and students should remain respectful of individual opinions Think about what the Pledge of Allegiance means to you.

socials

An editorial on the harmful effects of different social media platforms Social media changed the way the world works, from the ways businesses market their products to how people communicate with each other. It is an integral part of today’s society that is fairly new, only becoming popular in the last two decades. With that in mind, it has increased levels of anxiety and depression for younger generations. Social media negatively affects mental health in numerous ways.

When many social media users are teenagers, young adults, or even children, it can become an issue because this age group is impressionable. Apps such as Instagram or Facebook are designed to have it’s users go on the app as often as possible.

According to teenwire.org, a study in 2019 discovered the average screen time for teens is 7 hours a day. With so much time being spent on phones, teens consume so much content of people posting the best versions of themselves: posed, Photoshopped, showing only the interesting aspects of their lives. This leads to users feeling insecure about themselves while increasing the anxiety and depression of their mental state.

Numbers of minors having depression have increased throughout the years. A pewresearch.org analysis on data from the 2017 National Survey On Drug Use And Health concluded that 13% of teens in the U.S. underwent a depressive episode, which was 8% in 2007.

Rudi Russell (‘25) scrolls on Instagram while waiting in line for the bathroom. “If I ever have a fight with a friend and I see what they post on social media it negatively affects my mental health.

I tend to over think so things my friends post sometimes cause that.”

Russell said.

Photo by Aerial Stonis

This increase can be linked to the popularity of social media, with Instagram being launched in 2010, Snapchat released in 2011, and Musical.ly, now TikTok coming out in 2014.

Adolescents tend to be insecure in general, however social media has further made the issue worse. This can be from cyber bullying or constantly seeing seemingly “perfect” people.

According to a 2017 huffingtonpost.com poll, 60% of social media users agree that the use of different platforms affect their self-esteem negatively.

While insecurities are inevitable, consuming content that feeds them is not good for mental health.

Although social media can be

a fun way to spend your time, it can be deadly.

Limiting yourself with screen time or only following or watching things that make you feel good are ways to keep social media a positive thing. In addition, when on social media, search for online groups that contain similar users, as they can produce a sense of comfort as well as reassurance that others face common issues that are popular among people in general, especially adolescents.

When on social media, make sure to remember that apps such as FaceTune and those that alter physical appearance, are not producing a realistic image. Allow social media to be a beneficial tool that gives you the opportunity to connect.

Jacob Lee (’23) stays seated as the Pledge of Allegiance plays throughout the school. “I believe we need to bring awareness to political issues and continue to promote student opinions in clubs such as the Teenage Republicans and the Young Democrats,” Lee said. Photo by Emma Diehl.

Olympics ’22 Debate on whether or not to watch the Olympics Sofia Chianella ent/opinions editor As the 2022 Winter Olympics started on Feb. 4 in Beijing, China, a genocide is occurring towards Uyghurs and other Muslim minorities in Xinjiang, a providence in the western region of the country. With approximately two million Uyghurs and other Muslim minorities facing sexual abuse, violence, and forced labor that is regulated by the Chinese government through detention centers, questions have arisen on whether or not to watch the games in an act of protest of the perpetration.

Relating to the struggles of American athletes participating in the Beijing games, Izabella Guillan (‘23) is the captain of the girl’s weight lifting team, as well as a participant of Olympic weight lifting, and a possible future member of the Youth World Championship Weightlifting Team.

As Guillan learned about the genocide condemned by the Chinese government, who are also the organizer of the 2022 Winter Olympics, her attitude towards China has been impacted but not her respect for the American athletes attending.

“I feel like it doesn’t affect my support for the USA team, and of course other countries, because I would still want to support the United States and other athletes.

OPINIONS

I definitely think they deserve to be there no matter what the conditions are, but I think the conditions just aren’t great,” Guillan said.

As a member of the Muslim community, Lina Elshaer (‘24) brought up the point that with Ramadan soon approaching, there is a high possibility that the Chinese government will not allow the Uyghurs to fast during this time of religious festivities.

With this in mind, Elshaer watched the Olympics with partial enjoyment, as she understood that one half of the country is celebrating the publicity from the Olympics, while in another region people are suffering from violent repercussions, which Elshaer feels has not received enough attention.

“I mean in history you talk about the Holocaust and everything but know one brings up the genocide that is going on currently and people are talking about slavery, and I know it’s not slavery, but it is still holding people captive and I feel like there is not enough of attention brought to it,” Elshaer said.

The closing ceremony of the Olympics took place on Feb. 20, leading spectators to wonder if the next Olympic location that simultaneously participates in human rights abuses will still be allowed to host a event promoting peace.

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11

You should go to ...with a date Aerial Stonis staff reporter While some prom go-ers spend it single or with friends, going with a date allows you to get the full experience.

You get the best of both worlds since you can hang out with your friends while still having a date by your side the whole night.

First things first: you are guaranteed a buddy the whole night (depending on how good your date is). With a date, you’ll always have someone with you, whether it’s pictures, the dance itself, or dinner. Sarah Martinez (‘23) is relieved by the fact that she’s going with her boyfriend, Christian DeSousa (‘23) for her first prom.

“It’s nice to always have someone with you, by your side, rather than a bunch of friends that might leave you.”

Martinez said.

When the slow music starts playing, you will have a partner to dance with.

You can always dance with your friends, but with a date there is no need for finding a partner when you are insured one.

“When it comes to the slow dance, you don’t really dance with your friends, you dance with your partner,” Martinez said.

With your prom date you can have someone to pose

Gavin Gallagher (’22) Cosette Ganci (’22) Shaye Cochran (’22)

Prom

with for pictures and you’ll always have a cute memory to look back on. Courtney Thurber (‘23) is spending prom with her friend group in addition to bringing her boyfriend as her date.

“I think it’s better to go with a date when you have friends too, because the prom pictures look better and it’s just nice to have someone always with you there,” Thurber said.

You can match or coordinate colors with your date. Whether it’s the suit, tie, dress, or corsage and boutonnières, a little bit of matching adds some spice to your night.

“This is my first time going to prom so it’s really nice to have a date because I get to experience not being alone and it’s cute to match,” Thurber said.

Overall going to prom with a date is better than spending it single. Having a date lets you get the full experience of prom to create lasting memories past high school.

...without a date Emma Diehl editor-in-chief We’ve all heard the rumors of what happens to single people at prom: they get bored, they get lonely, or they have no friends. This simply isn’t true! Going to prom single can

have plenty of benefits, and speaking from experience, it can be more fun than going to a dance with a date.

The first reason why you should go to prom without a date is that there’s less stress about what to

wear to impress other people. Without a date, there’s no need to coordinate colors and/or patterns, leaving you with infinite possibilities. Want to wear a crazy pattern or a bright color? Go for it! Without a date, there’s no need to find a matching tie or dress for the other person to wear, leaving you free to express yourself.

Yet another reason why you should go to prom single would be that there’s less potential for drama. If you don’t bring a date, there’s no need to worry about them hitting on or dancing with someone other than yourself. Without having to worry about an unfaithful date, you get to spend more time enjoying yourself and the company of your classmates and friends.

Also, without having to worry about a date, there’s no need for excessively time consuming coordination of photos.

Without a date, you are free to take as many goofy photos with your friends as you want, and don’t have to worry about parents talking to each other about which couples’ pose you and your significant other need to do.

Without a date, there’s no need to worry about someone holding you back! For example, if your date is boring, and

...

wants to do nothing but sit at a table and snack, or even fall asleep, you don’t have to worry about having to stay with them. You, as a single person, are free to hang out with your own friends and dance the night away.

There’s nothing wrong with taking breaks or resting, but each person should be able to make that decision for themselves, not having it dictated by another person, which is what makes going to prom single such a wonderful thing. No date equals no having to worry about what someone else expects you to do.

Finally, going to prom single allows you to meet new people. While most singles go with their friends, there is always the possibility that you could meet new friends, or even someone that you’re interested in dating. Meeting new people is a crucial and exciting part of life, and what better way to do that than by dancing the night away with them at the biggest party of the year.

All in all, there are several reasons why you should consider going to prom single. The top five reasons that the Hoofbeat recommends are that you have more freedom of expression, there’s less of a chance of drama occurring, there’s no awkwardly forced photos, there’s no need to worry about someone holding you back, and you get a chance to meet new people. Now, go out there and enjoy yourselves, single people!