POP February 2016

‘ PEP O PLANT

H.B. Plant High School• 2415 S. Himes Ave • Tampa, FL, 33629 •February 2016 • Volume 89• Issue 5

Is studying in a group advantageous or simply too distracting to be productive? See what students think Page 11

Check out why the Dali Museum still serves as one of the area’s top exhibits to visit Page 17

Find out more information on the newly begun boys’ and girls’ lacrosse season Page 19

As this year’s Presidential Election gets near, many students have already polled in their thoughts on the candidates.

Check the results on Page 10

2 • Advertisement

February 2016

February 2016

G = Girls

B = Boys

News • 3

A = Away

H = Home

Check out pepoplant.com for new articles!

Calendar compiled by: Gianna Cacciatore

World?

February 2016

in the

What

4 • News

Picture of a potato sells for millions Celebrity photographer, Kevin Abosch, sold his “Potato #345” for $1.08 million to a businessman.

Abosch is most known for his photographic portraits of Johnny Depp, Steven Spielberg and a glass of milk, among others, and usually sells his pictures for around $500,000. But now “Potato #345” is the 15th most expensive photo ever sold. After a few glasses of wine the buyer gave in.

“I see commonalities between humans and potatoes that speak to our relationship as individuals within a collective species,” Abosch said.

“Generally, the life of a harvested potato is violent and taken for granted. I use the potato as a proxy for the ontological study of the human experience.”

Well said Abosch. Well said.

Why should you care?

Potato.

(Sources: CNN, Fox News)

Oklahoma standoff ends after 40 days

Gravitational waves discovered

Zika virus spreads to US

The armed protesters occupying the Malheur National Wildlife Refuge in eastern Oregon surrendered on Feb. 11.

The group was led by Ammon Bundy. The leader is the son of the anti-government rancher, Cliven Bundy, who fought the government when they tried to stop him from illegally cattle ranching on public land. The group that held the wildlife refuge wanted the government to give up control of the refuge because it had taken up the space of 100 ranches.

Why should you care?

The long, armed occupation ended without violence after one of the members of the group declared war on the government and accused it of “chemically castrating everyone” and hiding U.F.O.s. He surrendered shortly after. A few days earlier, Bundy was captured while outside the refuge.

(Source: CNN)

Gravitational waves, ripples in spacetime that transport energy as gravitational radiation, were discovered by scientists with the LIGO observatory on Feb. 11. The waves resulted from the collision of two black holes more than a billion light-years away and the discovery is the first direct evidence for Einstein’s prediction of gravitational waves in his theory of general relativity.

Why should you care?

100 years after his theory, the confirmation of gravitational waves supports Einstein’s idea of a universe where space and time are interwoven. Einstein said that energy in the form of these waves distorts the universe by creating a disturbance in spacetime causing it to stretch, collapse and jiggle. The result is the effect of gravity. This new evidence for gravitational waves paves the way for the study of the events that cause them.

(Sources: Scientific American, New York Times)

Travel-associated transmission has infected 52 US citizens of the zika virus. Transmission of the virus can occur through inheritance, sexual contact and blood but the primary form of infection is with mosquito bites and there is no US mosquito populations carrying it. However, the CDC predicts that in the US the number of cases will likely increase and 80% of these cases will remain undiagnosed.

Symptoms include fever, rash, conjunctivitis (red eyes) and muscle pain. People very rarely die from the virus.

Why should you care?

There is no vaccine or treatment for the virus. In addition, the virus has grown to a pandemic level after the massive outbreak in Brazil and it has been predicted that four million people will be infected by the end of the year. The biggest threat is to fetuses. There is a confirmed link between zika and microcephaly.

(Sources: CDC, USA Today) Compiled by: Joseph Rosenberger

February 2016

News • 5

Fantasy author speaks to students with The Coal Elf Emilia Difabrizio Copy Editor

PO’P Emilia Difabrizio

This is the cover for Devivo’s first novel, “The Coal Elf”. The book was published in 2012 and tells the dark story of an elf who mines coal for naughty children in the North Pole.

Author and teacher Maria Devivo spoke to Plant students on Jan. 28 in the media center.

The New York native currently lives in Florida and has been teaching 7th grade language arts at Randall middle school for the past 16 years. She has published two novels thus far: “The Coal Elf ” and “Rise Of Sturd,” both in the fantasy genre.

While speaking to Plant English classes and aspiring writers, she told the story of how she became an author and the trials and tribulations that came with it.

“Everybody’s journey is different,” Devivo said. Her story started with her father reading to her as a child and at eight years

old she had formulated a plan. She was going to be a teacher during the school year and write during her time off, time which she had assumed would be plentiful.

The self-described, “goth kid by nature” had a goal to walk into a bookstore, point to a book and say she had written it.

Achieving one part of her dream initially, she taught at a Catholic school in New York City, but life got in her way as her brother had a baby, her mother got sick, and other unforeseen life circumstances prevented her from doing the writing she wanted.

Finally, her husband gave her some extremely valuable advice: “Why are you letting you get in the way of you?”

Her husband played a major role in her evolution as a writer, being the first to edit her original

manuscript of her first novel, “The Coal Elf ”. After seeing purple ink edits on every page, she was devastated.

Two roads emerged for Devivo: quit or continue. Choosing the latter option, she spent six months revising and editing the manuscript, finally coming to the point where she was ready to have “The Coal Elf ” published.

Devivo noted that being published is a whole other beast.

After over 105 rejections, she was shattered, saying, “It broke my heart, it really did. But I knew it was something I really, truly wanted, but I wasn’t going to let that stop me.”

She compares the publishing game’s selectivity to Hollywood, yet eventually, she received an email from a small editor that had mistaken Devivo’s email for spam.

She was interested. Devivo says, “all it takes is one person.”

In 2012 her dreams came to fruition, and this past year, the sequel to “The Coal Elf ” was published as well.

Her advice for young writers: “Grow a tough skin. You’re gonna have people put you down, knock you down, reject you, all of that.

Don’t think your writing is the best first thing out of the park. It might be, but it might not be. Set yourself for high expectations but always know that there’s going to be somebody to block you in the road, but if you develop that thick skin, you can get through anything.”

The third and final book of the trilogy is currently in the works, and she aims to one day make a full time living off her writing.

February 2016

9 • Features

‘Why Define Us’ mentors young girls Allison Figueroa Centerspread Editor

If anyone made it their personal mission to aspire towards the messages in Beyonce’s “Flawless,” they would probably end up with a club like Why Define Us. “We mentor middle school girls from seventh to eighth grade, with the lessons ranging from a variety of topics,” Emma Frierson, president, said. “So far we’ve done Self-Expression, Social Media, and Body Image. The lessons consist of big and small group activities and sharing mentor stories.”

On January 25, Why Define Us headed out shortly after first period. The chilly, rainy weather didn’t dampen the girls’ spirits, they seemed eager to get to the school and start helping young ladies realize their potential. The same eagerness inspired the club founders, who are still active in

PO’P Allison Figueroa

Emma Frierson, senior, and Kristina Renaud, sponsor, discuss new possibilities for Why Define Us. ‘Why Define Us’ visited Coleman and Wilson on January 25

the group chat, and check inwith members during collegbreaks.

“It all started five years ago,” Kristina Renaud, English teacher and club sponsor, said, “Rachel Dibenedetto and Jaclyn Ancona literally thought up the idea on their own after having a discussion about how they were ill prepared coming from the private school to public school.” Renaud calls being the sponsor “one of the best compliments ever.”

“Probably failing every day, but [still trying] to make an attempt at good decisions.”

Frierson had this piece of advice for any young girls dealing with social difficulties: “As soon as you stop caring what other people think, their opinions towards you become invalid. So just be spontaneous and be you and let others adapt and enjoy your presence.”

6 • Features

February 2016

Female drum captain stands alone Katie Chae Business Manager Gracie Johnson, senior, has been in drumline throughout all four years of high school. When other female members left, she decided to stay and pursue what she enjoys doing. Competing in competitions and playing for Friday Night games. She even holds the position of Drum Captain. She hopes that when she graduates in a couple of years, there will be some female drummers willing to stay in drumline.

1. What made you so passionate about Drumline?

A: I started playing drums in 2nd grade and it was kind of a passion for percussion and I wanted to continue on it through high school. So it’s something I worked really hard on and therefore is passionate about.

2. How do you feel about being the only female member?

A: It’s difficult at times being the only girl amongst a field of boys but, it’s an interesting leadership experience. Because I don’t think I would’ve experienced that anywhere else.

PO’P Katie Chae

Gracie Johnson, senior, poses with her drum as she gets ready to play. She has been the only female member in the drum line but continues to stay a member.

3. Describe your favorite memory in drumline.

A: Going to Daytona with the drumline for a competition for a season of ours called indoor season and we performed and got 6th place in the state and it was a really cool experience.

4. What interested you in joining drumline?

A: I started playing percussion

in the 2nd grade and I was in the drumline in middle school and there were some high schoolers from drumline on Plant that would come to Coleman and would help us. I got interested and wanted to pursue it in high school.

5. After you graduate, how will you feel about future female drumline members and what will you tell them?

A: I would just encourage them to stick with playing drums even though situations will get tough because I had experience dealing with difficult times. I would encourage them to keep going with what they’re passionate about.

6. How have you and drumline bonded as a family?

A: We just gotten closer as a group because we’ve spent so much time practicing on marching techniques

February 2016

7 • Features

Plant affects community Allison Figueroa Centerspread Editor

PO’P Allison Figueroa

Henry B. Plant’s legacy remains in the form of the Museum near University of Tampa.

Since he was a founder of Tampa and Florida, he was an essential part of the school and of creating aspects of the city that are still in use today.

As influential as Henry B. Plant was to the city of Tampa and Florida itself, the finer details of his achievements are relatively unknown.

Plant’s rise to stardom began with a tragedy. At age six, he endured the death of his father and sister, and had to move to New Haven, Conn., where he worked on a steamboat called “The New York”.

His grandmother wanted him to attend Yale to become a clergyman, but Plant decided to defy her and keep working in the steamboat industry instead.

Eventually, a woman did persuade him to change his lifestyle several times. After he married, Plant decided to come ashore and work with a company mailing packages, effectively switching his career from steamboats to railroads.

When his wife fell ill, Plant

made another major life change for her. Under advisory from her doctor, the two moved south to Jacksonville where Plant was shocked and intrigued by how underdeveloped Florida was.

A second move gave Plant the opportunity for transportation authority over all territories south of the Potomac and Ohio Rivers, which he quickly transformed from an unorganized mess to a thriving, dependable rail.

But with the Civil War approaching, the company became worried that their Southern land would be confiscated, so they sold them to Plant for an IOU of $500,000, an equivalent of nearly $12 million today.

With all these new rails, Plant founded the Southern Express Company. With his fast and reliable rails, he gave Florida orange growers quicker and cheaper access to Northern markets.

Plant had such a great reputation that Davis, the president of the Confederacy, made him the

main transportation for collecting tariffs and transferring funds.

But in the middle of the war, he claimed a serious illness and travelled to Bermuda to recuperate.

When he finally made his way home to Augusta, Georgia again, the railroads were nearly destroyed, as was most of the South.

As other companies went bankrupt, Plant capitalized by winning the bankrupt railroads in auction.

By the end of his life, he had fourteen railway companies with 2,100 miles of track, several steamship lines, and a number of important hotels. Plant developed much of Tampa and west Florida.

The $3 million Tampa Bay Hotel was Plant’s prized possession, and many historians theorize that this pride was the result of being able to show up Henry M. Flagler, who was developing the east coast of Florida.

His son, Morton, is his most famous descendant, and has his namesake on a hospital in Clearwater.

Political clubs gain interest from students Zoie Ashmeade Public Relations

Plant administration rarely accepts new clubs. Recently, two political part based clubs the Alliance of Plant Republicans and the Dedicated Alliance of Democratic Students have joined Plant.

Founder and president of the Alliance of Plant Republicans Nick Jungers, Junior has spent hours of his time jumping through hoops in order to create his club including creating a petition.

“The inspiration was the fact that I felt that the education system is forcing people down a line to be more and more liberal, and to create a better environment for republican students at plant and to provide opportunities for spread ing conservatism,” Jungers, said.

PO’P Darnell Henderson The Alliance of Plant Republi- Co-Presidents Macie Lavender and Grace Summers tally votes for board of D.A.D.S. They wanted to promote democracy in their cans Kelsey John, Junior ,and Sa- club by having members vote for board. mantha Jacosen, Junior, became involved through Jungers.

“I’m a Republican so I saw an about,” said John. “I wanted to with is the Republican Parsaid.Founders and co-presiopportunity to get involved join because the ty and to allow students to voice dents of the Dedicated Alliance of in something I feel passionate political party I affiliate myself their political opinions,” Jacobsen Democratic Students (D.A.D.S.)

Macie Lavender, Sophomore and Grace Summers, Sophomore soon created their club after the emergence of their republican counterpart.

“Our inspiration to start the club was the fact that there wasn’t a uniform group of people to talk liberal politics with, Now, with D.A.D.S. as an official club, we can ensure that democratic students can discuss their political opinions and share ideas about politics,” Lavender said.

D.A.D.S. is still in the process of electing their board members.

“I’m really glad that we are able to have a democratic club on campus. I know a lot of students are interested in politics and hopefully this club will allow them to take part in opportunities that they wouldn’t be exposed to without it, I also am glad that we are able to open people’s minds to the democratic political platform and allow them to fully understand what we are about,” Summers said.

Both clubs create a bipartisan relationship.

8 • Ad

February 2016

10• Centerspread

February 2016

Decide wi 20

Visit isidewith.com for more information on candidates and take a quiz to match up their views with yours!

Hillary Clinton

“My favorite candidate is Clinton because she would be the first female president and she has experience,” Urvi Kaushik, junior

AftonbladeBL/Zuma Press/TNS

Clinton is a former U.S. senator from New York (2001-2009), Secretary of State (2009-2013), and first lady to Bill Clinton (1993-2001).

Bernie Sanders

This is Hillary’s second time running for presidency, following her 2008 campaign. Clinton’s campaign features the most progressive views on gun control and LGBT rights, as well as a promise to improve the middle class.

She has also recently been involved on a scandal of shared confidential emails. Clinton is the only female expected to make it to the primary elections.

“My favorite candidate is Bernie Sanders because I identify with the socialist party and I like that he makes a point to shed light on the situations of the [disenfranchisement] of the country,” Cecilia McLaren, senior

Olivier Douliery/Abaca Press/TNS

Sanders’ main campaign points include lowering college tuition and creating health care free of deductibles, which in turn promises a raise in taxes.

Sanders is also strongly against the corporate leaders on Wall Street.

Sanders is the oldest in the race for candidacy and the only self-proclaimed socialist. He has served as Mayor of Burlington, Vermont, in the House of Representatives (1991-2007), and is currently a Senator for Vermont (2007-present).

Many have criticized his plans, believing that they will only increase the national debt. Sanders also plans to cut the military budget to pay for social welfare programs.

Sanders wishes for an immigrant-friendly country with health care coverage for immigrants under the Affordable Care Act and a reform of the the current visa system to regulate future flows, while maintaining a secure border.

Clinton plans on providing a clear way for those undocumented to receive equal citizenship.

Sanders plans to separate health insurance from employment by creating a federally administered single-payer health care program, meaning comprehensive coverage for all Americans; there would be no more copays or deductibles.

Clinton wishes for lower health care prices, and defends the Affordable Care Act. Clinton also plans to defend women’s access to reproductive healthcare.

Abortion:

Sanders is pro-choice, holding a belief that abortion is entirely the woman’s choice. Sanders also hopes to expand Planned Parenthood services.

Clinton is pro-choice, declaring that abortions should be safe, legal and rare. She supports Planned Parenthood. As Senator, she repeatedly voted against anti-abortion laws.

LGBT:

Sanders is a long time supporter of LGBT rights and is on a mission to end all discrimination. Sanders is current supporter of the Equality Act and plans to sign it into law, if elected.

Clinton is a more recent supporter of gay rights, but has pledged to defend LGBT individuals, a continuation on a pledge of making sure all are treated with equal rights.

Immigration: Healthcare:

None

None Trump Cruz

Copy by Savannah Lowry, Ar Design by Allison Figuer Survey of 80 studen

Centerspread • 11

February 2016

ith style 016

Primary Election: Tuesday, March 15 General Election: Tuesday, November 8

Donald Trump

“My favorite candidate is Trump because he says what’s on his mind and he won’t take my money,” Will Hesse, sophomore Trump plans to simplify the tax code, promising middle class relief and for Americans to keep more of their own money.

He also has strong views on immigration reform, wanting to deport all illegal immigrants, which caused great controversy at the beginning of the race. This backlash included his removal from “Celebrity Apprentice”.

Dennis Van Tine/Abaca Press/

Trump is the expected primary candidate with the least amount of political experience. He is well known for his successful New York real estate development and former TV show, “Celebrity Apprentice”.

Ted Cruz

“My favorite candidate is Cruz because he supports a 10 percent flat tax that will support economic growth and protect low class Americans from high taxes,” Nicholas Jungers, junior Sanders

Clinton

Cruz holds mostly conservative views, except for drug policy, as he is in favor of states pursuing their own drug policies.

His foreign policy stance allows the United States to restore power on the global field and defend allies.

He also believes in the notion of strong American defense against forces such as ISIS.

Immigration: Healthcare: Rubio Carson

Abortion:

Kasich Bush

rts and Entertainment Editor roa, Centerspread Editor nts from all grades

LGBT:

Yin Bogu/Xinhua/Zuma Press/TNS

Cruz is the former Solicitor General of Texas (2003-2008) and current U.S. Senator for Texas (2013-present).

Trump plans to put the needs of working people first with his immigration reform. He plans to build a wall across the southern border, payed for by the Mexican government, and also to deport all criminal aliens.

Cruz plans to improve border security to stop illegal immigration and protect American workers. He wants to halt legal immigration as American unemployment rates remain high.

Trump promises to take care of all in regards to health care, but also he plans repeal Obamacare.

Cruz is against Obamacare and in support of the Health Care Choice Act, a more personal, market-based reform. He is also against taxpayer support of Planned Parenthood.

Trump is pro-life, which is also a change in position, as he used to be pro-choice.

Cruz is strongly pro-life and supports causes that seek to end abortion, in favor of parental notification in the situation of a minor and policy that ends funding for abortions.

Trump is against gay marriage, but has mixed tactics on ending bigotry. He supports revising the Civil Rights Act of 1964 to be more LGBT supportive, but he also expresses support for the First Amendment Defense Act, which has the possibility of leading to more discrimination.

Cruz believes that marriage is between a man and a woman and as Senator he has prevented federal courts from further interference into a state’s definition of marriage.

12• Opinions

Pep O’ Plant 2415 S. Himes Avenue, Suite 103 Tampa, Florida 33629 (813) 272-3033 ext. 247

Editors-in-Chief Bennett Taylor Erce Phillips News Editor Joseph Rosenberger Features Editor Rachel Ferreri Opinions Editor Matt Blydenburgh Arts & Entertainment Editor Savannah Lowry Sports Editor Jacob Robinson Centerspread Editor Allison Figueroa Photography Editor Ysabella Canto Public Relations Zoie Ashmeade Webmaster Gianna Cacciatore Business Manager Katie Chae Circulation Manager Sam Werner Copy Editors Emilia Difabrizio Blair Eustace Maggie Fitzsimmons Staff Artist Zoe Antinori Photographer Darnell Henderson Staff Writer Pershia Haj Faculty Adviser Louisa Avery The Pep O’ Plant is Plant High School’s studentrun newspaper. Opinions expressed may not reflect the views of the entire staff or school. We welcome signed letters to the editors. Letters can be brought to room 103 or placed in Louisa Avery’s school mailbox. We reserve the right to edit, condense or reject any letters. Some material courtesy of MCT Campus High School Newspaper Service. Professional associations include Florida Scholastic Press Association, Southern Interscholastic Press Association, the National Scholastic Press Association and Quill and Scroll.

Follow us on Twitter @plantpop

February 2016

Political discussion deserves fair conversation Editorial As a new election cycle for the presidency begins every four years, the more political side of most Americans pokes its head out to join in on this exciting display of democracy. This makes way for a large increase in discussion over national policy.

While many of these individuals have a sound understanding of our nation’s political system and understand what exactly each of these candidates have based their campaign platforms on, quite a large amount of people have an extremely minute understanding of politics in general.

Sadly, it is these very people who seem to have the loudest voice in our society, leading to a mess of incoherent, unintelligent statements from countless citizens whose own biases serve only to prevent the creation of politically knowledgeable voters.

Those with the most extreme opinions on various subjects most often have the loudest voice in the majority of discussions, silencing the arguments of those with a more broad understanding of each candidate’s qualities.

In order for the population of voters to have the best understanding of the candidates appearing on the ballot, it would be

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PO’P Zoe Antinori

best suited for them to hear from some of these officials who understand the functions of politics and can explain the full ramifications of certain policies if enacted into law.

Every voter has a right to know the traits and qualities of every candidate on the ballot and to

play as big of a role in the democratic system as any other citizen. However, there are still those whose biases greatly impede upon the population’s gain.

The best way to avoid this overall is for those with these one-sided views to keep their opinions within the confines of their own

respective parties. Arguments have the most persuasive capabilities when they concede to the viewpoints of the opposing side yet refute those ideas in a coherent manner. Simply yelling about making America great again will not bring much support to your side.

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Opinions• 13

February 2016

Pro Vs. Con:

Is group studying a productive activity?

Column Darnell Henderson Photographer There is an immense number of study tips that claim successful results. Though many of these prove ineffective, there is one that can help students learn material faster and more thoroughly than just studying by oneself, this method being studying in groups.

Group studying, which usually consists of four people, is an effective and resourceful way of studying.

When four individuals come together and study the same material, all can contribute extensive and varied knowledge on the subject.

This aids other students in the group who are unclear or confused in a specific area of the topic, and then in turn the student clarifies an area of trouble for another member of the group.

Not only does it clarify, but it

also improves the group’s knowledge on the subject. This makes it a beneficial technique to completely understand information on upcoming test or quizzes.

In addition, students have their own tips and tricks in gaining a better comprehension of the topic, which they will then teach the individuals that they are studying with, aiding all in truly grasping the concepts that will later appear on test.

Although, the larger the number of people students study with can lead to annoyances when scheduling a group study session, since there is not only one, but four people’s agendas to consider.

However this method is highly worthwhile and should be a priority for students.

Students also have a tendency to worry themselves when they don’t recognize or understand concepts on review material, but group studying alleviates some of that stress due to the comfort of being surrounded by peers who want all in the group to succeed.

The weight of not being knowledgeable about a topic is lifted as students clarify, educate and help group members until everyone is enlightened.

Group studying is a successful and adequate method for studying for any and all tests, providing all students in the group with new and practical information that will help them perform excellently on test and quizzes.

P R O

Column Bennett Taylor Editor In Chief

C O N

All throughout the fantastic and incredibly arduous journey that is every high school experience, comes the part that is rarely covered by the open house presentation: the work. Surely everyone knows that high school will come with some load of work.

Homework, projects, studying and other academic endeavors all require out of school effort and hours put into to be successful.

Alas, this workload always gets conquered by hard working students, intent to succeed in high school as to prepare for college and the workplace. But how this work is done has been twisted and distorted by the rise of the “Group studying time.”

A silent internal cry rings out throughout my frontal cortex as I process the meaning of such a phrase, one that wastes time and breeds false context for proper

studying techniques. Never before has English homework, such as reading or study guides, been done in the context of a group.

For starters, a majority of groups I have witnessed “studying” at the likes of a Panera or a Starbucks chain consist more of eating and socializing, rather than any intellectual conversation or discussion of ideas and problems that so called “Group Studying” are intent on accomplishing. Snapchat stories of friends in booths with a caption reading “Study Buddy” reveal that nothing is being accomplished, with a late night ahead scheduled for the homework not done while socializing at the restaurant.

Cheating also breeds in such groups. With the joy of group messaging on wireless networks comes the creation of study groups who often meet to study the subject that they all share a class with together. But more often than not, such groups are converted to homework factories, where a few kids will actually do all the work and give it out to friends who use various shaming techniques to get the work done.

Granted, some subjects thrive on group discussion: Math can be understood, English stories better explained. But when did such honest studying occur when the last group study occurred? Does the rest of the homework just have to be done at home, with a self reflection regarding the huge waste of time earlier? Often, it is.

Man on the Street

Which presidential candidate do you believe is best for the 2016 presidency?

“I think Donald Trump is the best option this race.”

-Tripp Glover, junior

“Well I think Rubio could do a good job, I just hope it’s not Trump. He’s too crazy.

-Alex Gabler, junior

“Carly Fiorina”

“Donald Trump”

-Sabrina Paredes, freshman

-Dillon Baker, freshman Compiled By: Darnell Henderson

Arts and Entertainment• 17

February 2016

Dali still serves as artistic escape

Buddy cops humorously takes on drugpin

Erce Phillips Editor in Chief

MCTCampus

Column Bennett Taylor Editor in Chief Have you ever seen a movie alone? If not, perhaps try the AMC Westshore theater on a Monday afternoon, fresh at 3 pm after an early release day gives an extra hour of enjoyment to stem the pain of the beginning of the week.

And yes, I did just that. Indeed, the new movie theater bar stood as quiet as the audience of the sequel that I trekked to at the back theater, infamous for almost off the screen shows and those that underwhelmed. This was the latter.

So much negative and brutally cruel criticism could be dished out for the second edition of the Kevin Hart and Ice Cube collaboration known as “Ride Along,” starring the aforementioned comedic stars, along with a threadbare supporting cast of static characters that fit the mold of the classic cop-catchingthe-evil-business-man movie.

So predictable the plot, it almost pained me to watch the comedic chasing a bad guy through the neighborhoods of Miami, and knowing that Hart, playing Ben Barber, would run through an apartment of poolside women who he would say hi to before running again.

Again, too much negativity to dive into headfirst. But I’m

here to discuss another tragic fact that was further confirmed by this 102 minute runtime of a travesty, one that plagues not only the movie industry, but also that of the design industry.

But first, let’s dish some background. Think about these fictional companies: Stark Industries, Wayne Enterprises, OsCorp Technologies (Spiderman).

Now yes, they are all superhero movies, but reflect on the company logos of each of these corporations.

Similar indeed: a basic, black font, seemingly modern and sleek as a way to show off the unique characteristics of such fake business.

Why do such logos always correspond to a bad, evil company? Evil businessman Antonio Pope, in the film, runs his company with his logo slapped across cars and other merchandise.

Such branding, along with the scary men in dark suits behind the wheel of the otherwise blank cars, always immediately gives the company away as the bad guy in the story.

Modern companies look out; a sleek modern design may mean that evil is not far away.

But the comedic version of a “Fast and Furious” film did nothing at all to distinguish itself from other similar films. Most likely not a good use of the extra hour of free time on early release Monday; but life, and early release Monday, still goes on today.

For students who seem to be in a lazy day slump, stuck with nothing in particular to do, there is one option for fun that has been a staple to the bay area for years now, but seems to often go on overlooked as a fun activity. Stationed in marvelous glass stature atop the edge of the coast overlooking the bay is the Dali Museum, a renowned art museum that most residents in Tampa can declare they have visited, or at least familiarized themselves with.

For those who have been living under a rock for the past few years, the Dali Museum was given a new home, with an all new exterior design created by architect Yann Weymouth.

From the exterior, the most notable feature of the museum is the glass “Enigma”, which was built to pay homage to the Geodesic dome Dali placed over his own theatre-museum in Spain.

However, once actually immersed by the Dali, visitors will find that the place is much

more than a pretty building. Inside, where the exhibits are, is where the true fascination begins. The setup of the museum is divided into different wings, with a permanent collection of

PO’P Ysabella Canto

A tourist views one of Dali’s famed paintings, The Ecumenical Council. The 1960 painting is shown in the permanent exhibit, meaning that it will never leave the museum.

pieces scattered around each.

Those with a fascination for art can probably revisit and view these pieces over and over and

still find a fascination for them, because even from the perspective of someone who simply appreciates their artistic value, revisiting provided a great experience.

Revisiting should be emphasized in this sense. One of the museum’s best pulls towards a revisiting value is the constant setup of special new exhibits that are centralized around a certain theme, brought in for a few months, then taken down to be replaced just months later.

The most recent passing exhibit was “Escher at the Dali”, an exhibit highlighting renowned artist M.C. Escher.

Currently, an exhibit called “Disney at the Dali” is set up, which is a multi-media exhibition telling the story of the alliance of unlikely artist duo Salvador Dali and Walt Disney.

This exhibit is scheduled to be taken down June 12, so although it’s going to be around for a bit longer, it’s worth keeping in mind to visit before it’s taken down.

Entrance to the Dali is 17 dollars for students, a small price to pay to visit an artistic getaway

14 • Arts and Entertainment

February 2016

Gasparilla festivals bring inspiration to tampa Gasparilla festivities continue Blair Eustace Copy Editor The Gasparilla Pirate Festival is a beloved tradition unique to Tampa, but many don’t know that the festivities continue after the parade. Throughout the spring, there are a number of festivals celebrating Tampa’s creative scene and giving residents a chance to showcase their skills.

Gasparilla Arts Fesitval The Gasparilla Festival of the Arts takes place in Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park in Downtown Tampa Mar. 5 and Mar. 6. The event is free to attend and showcases the work of hundreds of local artists, with many works available for purchase. The park

is transformed into a museum while attendees enjoy food from vendors, live entertainment and special activities for children.

Gasparilla Music Fesitval

Next, on Mar. 12 and 13 the very same Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park is transformed into an outdoor multistage concert venue to host the Gasparilla Music Festival.

Enjoy cuisine from the Tampa area’s most well-loved restaurants while taking in live music from acts such as R&B artist Erykah Badu, folksy Greensky Bluegrass and alternative pop band MS MR. Ticket options range from two-day passes, general admission and VIP, and cost from $30 to $60.

PO’P Blair Eustace

Gasparilla International Film Fesitval Lastly, from Mar. 30 to Apr. 1 is the Gasparilla International Film Festival. Launched in 2006, the festival has since grown into a full three-day showcase of local to international talent. The festival is operated by the Tampa Film Institute, which promotes “yearround support for film screen-

ing, production and education throughout the Tampa Bay region” (gasparillafilmfestival.com).

Attendees have the opportunity to not only view many independently produced films in virtually every genre, but also participate in Q&A sessions with directors, producers, screenwriters and actors after the screening.

The schedule for this year’s festival, as well as information

regarding location and ticket prices will be released in Mar. Not only do these festivals offer a range of exciting events in our area, but they also give students a chance to get involved.

Each festival is in need of many volunteers to help orchestrate its many aspects and volunteering is a unique and beneficial experience.

To get involved, visit the website for each respective festival.

Art show displays variety of earth day works Savannah Lowry Arts & Entertainment Editor Students flood the doors of the main hall lobby just before the late bell at 7:33am and dash through them at the sound of dismissal at 3:00pm, without a second glace.

However, this overlook has changed with the new addition of the art show to the lobby walls.

The entire show was matted and installed by the art club, and the works depict the theme “Earth Day Every Day,” through all forms of art.

“What I love about the art show is that there is an overarching theme and both language and visual arts and music are included. Plus much of it was selected through a student voting process,” said art

club sponsor, Ginger Goepper.

The art show brings together a variety of creative genres from Alex McDermott’s 3-D artwork entitled “Opposites

PO’P Darnell Henderson

Attract” to Anna Lise Barksdale’s drawing entitled “Autumn garden”. Even with their

differences, all works encompassed the environmental theme.

For Aury Morales-Pacheo, junior, the creativity of the show is what appeals to her. “I like making my own creative artwork and seeing the creativity of other,” said Morales-Pacheo.

The theme of the art show also allows for variance of interpretation and representation.

“I like how, not just in my piece, but in everybody’s pieces, a sustainable environment was incorporated into each artist’s design to help promote healthy living, a clean environment and protecting animal habitats,” stated Kyle Snyder, senior.

The art show has really brought all the arts of the school together. Like in how the picture, “Grass Roots” by Kayla Nelson,

junior, is posted next to the musical composition of Carson Wiltshire, sophomore, and his piece, “Spring Melody In C Major”.

Morales-Pacheo is most ex-

PO’P Darnell Henderson

cited to “see the different entries and read poetry.” A drawing is certainly nowhere near the limit of this art show.

Snyder sums up the variety and strong message of the art show’s

theme with the statement, “I like the fact that the theme of the show can both spread awareness about improving the environment and also help students display their art and get recognition for it.”

Each art work displays the unique creativities of each artist, while still maintaining a unity to the show with their environmental themes.

This provides a dynamic to the show, making it a place of great interest in the school halls.’

The art show features the art work of students from all grades.

Open for viewing to students and faculty, all hours of the school day in the main hall lobby display cases. The starting Feb 9 and ending Apr 25.

Arts and Entertainment• 15

February 2016

South Tampa offers variety of coffee options PO’P Maggie Fitzsimmons

1. DI Coffee Bar Rachel Fererri Features Editor & Maggie Fitzsimmons Copy Editor This cafe is a coffee shop by day and an espresso and wine bar by night. This spot has everything from lattes and iced coffee to teas and pastries. During the day, it is a great spot to get coffee for group studying because it is spacious with big tables. Their coffee is extremely strong and can be on the expensive side. The coffee bar is usually not too busy, making it a good spot to hang out and spread out homework.

PO’P Maggie Fitzsimmons

Anna Renou, junior, tries a latte from The Blind Tiger Cafe. She participated in taste tests at a few other coffee places around town as well.

2. The Blind Tiger Cafe

This chic, hipster cafe is also located in Ybor City. Walking into the cafe, coffee drinkers will automatically feel comfy from the atmosphere (couches and counter tops line the whole restaurant).

A fun place to bring friends to catch up, this cafe also provides the option to choose whether to sit inside or outside. They have a great variety as well, including their popular drink, ‘Cafe Bonbon.’ However, their menu is not as big as The Bunker’s and their prices are significantly higher for the size of the drink that is given.

The store has the unique aspct of being a cozy cafe in a busy area.

3. Datz Dough

Located on MacDill Avenue, this shop is a small extension from the popular restaurant, Datz. The shop has many types of coffee as well as an interesting assortment of desserts to their drinks. While it errs on the pricier side of coffee shops, the intimate environment is a great spot for dates or a quick treat. Their coffee is also on the sweeter side, so this will not be a favorite place of strong coffee lovers. Customers can choose from a varity of flavors and add many other flavorings to their coffee also. But for those with a sweet tooth, it will be easy to fall in love with this cute place.

4. The Bunker

Located in Ybor City, this small, cozy cafe is a great spot to grab coffee and study for tests or meet up with friends. The cafe has a variety of options to make each coffee the way each customer likes it, such as 30 different flavor shots and different types of coffee, from iced to espresso. Their unique flavors include options such as ‘Cupcake’ and ‘Cheesecake’ and they are able to be mixed together, giving the consumer the opportunity to make a new flavor for their coffee. Another great thing about this coffee place is the price; it is relatively cheap for the amount of coffee given.

PO’P Maggie Fitzsimmons

5. Buddy Brew Coffee

Located on Kennedy, this coffee shop is more difficult to reach because the parking situation is poor. The inside is not spacious enough to accommodate a large group, but includes comfortable couches to hang out on with a couple friends. While the crowdedness is a pain, it could also show that the place is well liked by many people. Their coffee is extremely strong, so it would not be the best place for those who like a sweeter or milder taste to their coffee.

Their food menu is impressive because of its variety of sandwiches, breakfast items and pastries. This is a good sunday brunch spot.

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February 2016

18 • Sports

February 2016

Lacrosse boys start exciting season Rachel Ferreri Features Editor With a new season starting, the team has a whole new roster of talented players competing for Plant. This year, the lacrosse team plans to achieve many goals such as: making it to states, beating Jesuit High School and Lake Highland Prep.

“Last year, we were younger and less focused. This year, we have our heads screwed on right,” Alex Alonso, sophomore, said.

Alonso also said that it helps that they only lost five seniors last year, so this year, he thinks that that their season will be successful.

According to some of the players, this year is also likely to be successful because the team has more leadership than past years, and with a strong senior class, they are more focused.

“The best part of being on the lacrosse team is winning the big games that come down to the last second, like when we played Jesuit,” Wright Holman, junior, said.

Holman said that beyond Jesuit, their biggest challenge will be playing Lake Highland Prep, in Orlando, FL. All the players also prepare for each of these games in their own ways.

“Right before the games, I always prepare for it by messing around with my friends,” Zach Turton, junior, said.

Other players confirmed that special music also helps them to get “pumped up” before games.

“I have to listen to Thunderstruck right before the game or else we lose,” Holman, said.

“To quote Michael Scott, ‘I am not superstitious but I am a little stitious.”’

Jack Schifino, sophomore, explained that his pre-game ritual for every game involves tapping both goal posts with

his stick.

The players also have many individual goals, which will help them reach the long term ones like making it to States.

“Personally, my goal for the season is to get 10 or more goals,” Alonso, said.

Dow Walker, freshman, explained that his major goal was to improve his skills so that he can become a starter next year.

However, a majority of the players said that their main goal of winning states will start with beating rivals like Jesuit, Berkeley, and Newsome.

“This season, winning districts and advancing to the playoffs will be aided by our senior class,” John Shaw, coach, said. “This team has no weaknesses.”

“Our team is very athletic and we are all friends, this affects our playing,” Jackson Misner, senior, said.

The team played their first game on Feb. 8 at Newsome, in which they won 12-10.

PO’P Rachel Ferreri

Coach John Shaw leads the boys lacrosse team in pre-practice warmups. The team ran sprints before stretching, and after, began running drills.

February 2016

19 • Sports

Bottom Line Is... Lightning look ready for another playoff run

Column Jacob Robinson Sports Editor Jon Cooper is one brilliant head coach. His Tampa Bay Lightning have not missed many strides so far this regular season; and when it comes down to it, there is no doubt that they will continue to make a run towards the playoffs this year.

The team does not look quite exactly like it did last summer when it won the Eastern Conference over the likes of the Montreal Canadiens and New York Rangers; but nonetheless, the team is heading in the right direction. At a record of 26-18-4 and at 4th place in the Atlantic division, a reason for optimism is that they are only one point behind thirdBoston- and 2 points behind

second in the Detroit Red Wings. Aside from the magical run the Florida Panthers have been on, the division is still within reach for Tampa Bay. The focus have shifted off of players like Jonathan Drouin and Steven Stamkos, and instead to how they Bolts have bounced back from an early season catastrophe, going 5-7 in October and November, and 7-6 in the month of December.

Ben Bishop has defied expectations, posting a 2.02 Goals Against Average (GAA), and a save percentage of .926. Nikita Kucherov and Steven Stamkos both have 20 goals on the year, and the Lightning share the puck so often, even players like Andrej Sustr have highlight reel goals to brag about.

As we look back to the AllStar game for top-name players ( John Scott?) providing quality entertainment, one of the many storylines for the second half of the regular season will be how the Bolts can finish out the year strong, potentially earning a 4-8 seed, and making some noise in the playoffs.

But with how hard the Atlantic Division has been this year, the Lightning have to continue to dominate both

on offense and defense. What has been struggling against Tampa Bay has been executing on power plays, in which they rank 14th in the NHL. To be more of a quality team to go the distance, it needs to crack the top ten.

The Bolts also struggle with creating opportunities. They are 20th across the league in terms of shots for per game.

The pace of the offense needs to go more smoothly in order to rack up more wins, and improve the ranking within the Atlantic Division.

But with any team in the National Hockey League, there is reason for optimism.

Besides the playmakers that score goals and a solid goaltender in Ben Bishop, the Lightning boast quality wins against high-caliber teams. Back on Jan. 21, the Lightning beat the hottest team in hockey, the Chicago Blackhawks, who they lost to in last summer’s Stanley Cup Finals. They also have great wins against teams like Pittsburgh, New York, Los Angeles, and even Florida.

And in the playoffs, they match well against possible opponents like Florida. In a possible “Sunshine State Showdown”, the Lightning match up well against Florida, and in a 7 game series, they do have the edge besides the

Lacrosse girls start spring season Persha Haj Staff Writer Girls Lacrosse season has begun, and they are ready more than ever for the upcoming season, with hopes of making it to states this year.

Practices consist of hard work, filled with lots of stick skills and conditioning, as well as working on personal field positions. “It was difficult first starting Plant Lacrosse because I was used to playing on a middle school level. Transitioning to high school became a lot more challenging, but all the girls who were previously on the team have been super welcoming and helpful to all of the freshman,” said Cailey Clarke, freshman.

The girls all agree that the advantage of this season is that they have all grown really close, and help each other out when they face obstacles.

“Our team this year is way closer than it has ever been

and I think that’ll help us a lot more to reach states. The best part is being friends and meeting all these awesome girls. We all run in different groups and it’s just awesome that we all bond over this,” said captain, Hannah Scheultz, senior.

Delaney Turton, junior, explains that Vero Beach High School will be the team’s biggest rival this year and are hoping to overcome them on their road to states.

“Our biggest challenge will definitely be to not beat the other teams by too much.

Sportsmanship is an important part of the game, and we must maintain our respectful reputation as we continue to go undefeated for another year,” said Turton.

Alex Schobert, sophomore, explains the best part of being apart of the team is because she loves seeing her friends everyday while at practice.

“We are focusing a lot on positivity and unity this season

and are extremely excited for the upcoming games,” Schobert explains. Grace Owens, junior commit to the University of Manhattan in November. “It’s taken me about two years of constantly emailing coaches and going to camps, clinics and tournaments in order to make my name reoccurring so they would recognize it,” said Owens.

Owens has been to the school twice already, and has already built relationships with the people on her team, excited and prepared for her transition into college.

Girls lacrosse had their first game on Feb. 8th, in which they won, 18-6 against Newsome. They then went on to beat Robinson 15-5 on Feb. 11th.

streak that Roberto Luongo and the Panthers have created.

The Bolts should be excited of continuing the play that they have been on and earn a playoff berth. If they improve on certain aspects of play, there’s no telling how far Jon Cooper’s bunch can go.

‘‘

The Bolts should be excited of continuing the play they’ve been on and earn a playoff bearth. If they improve on certain aspects of play, there’s no telling how far Jon Cooper’s bunch can go.

Upcoming Lightning home games:

2/14 vs. STL 2/16 vs. SJS 2/18 vs. WPG 2/23 vs. PHX 3/5 vs. CAR 3/8 vs. BOS 3/11 vs. PHI 3/22 vs. DET 3/25 vs. NYI 3/28 vs. TOR 3/31 vs. MTL 4/2 vs. NJ

PO’P Persha Haj Girls anticipate the moments before their name is called to enter practice. The Plant girls are so far undefeated in this young season, and all of them are looking forward to what the 2016 season brings.

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February 2016