POP October 2014

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PEP O PLANT

H.B. Plant High School • 2415 South Himes Avenue, Tampa, Florida, 33629 October 10, 2014 • Volume 88 • Issue 3

Check out behind the scenes of Howl-O-Scream Page 5 Hungry? Students rate best pizzas in South Tampa Page 11

October 2014

2 • News

Havoc on Himes: the sequel

Construction on Himes inhibits flow of traffic around school Nikki Lund Staff Writer

Since the beginning of the school year, the stretch of Himes avenue between Bay to Bay and Euclid has been under construction. This has caused numerous problems to the flow of traffic for the 2014-2015 year.

Students are now finding new ways to traverse to and from school every weekday.

Julia Burgin, senior, now spends her morning devising a way to get around the parents and underclassmen also going in the Dale Mabry entrance.

“I live on Himes. I used to be able to drive straight down to school, but now I have to drive around,” Burgin said.

“It seems like there’s construction everywhere now,” Rachael Benner, senior, said. “I have to take like 20 different routes home every day.”

Students who either cross or walk down Himes are now having to maneuver around giant piles of gravel and bright orange detour signs.

Many who walk home can be seen at the end of each day walking through the dirt and rubble, trying to make it home without any injuries.

Students are now waking up earlier than usual in order to make it to their class, through the hallways teeming with kids, up until the few seconds before the chime of the late bell.

“Every time school starts, it seems like they’re constructing something. Every time!” Allison Torres, senior, said.

“It makes it so I have to take a longer route to school, which means waking up earlier. It sucks.”

The construction on Himes in past years has also affected the flow around the area. Many

PO’P Haley Babbitt

Detour signs flank the path home for many students. It took many an extra 5-10 minutes to get home.

students have already prepared new routes as a side effect of past occurrences.

“I already tend to avoid that

area,” Claire Anderson, senior, said. “This just gives me more of a reason.”

The havoc on Himes continues

into the school year, adding another chapter to the saga of traffic affecting the student body and their families.

October 2014

News • 3

New anti-rape product causes controversy Allison Figueroa Public Relations

A

new date rape prevention method is set to help women feel safer. But, is it creating new ways to blame victims of sexual assault?

Eighteen percent of women are assaulted in their lifetimes and 25 percent of college-aged women become victims of rape or attempted rape by the time they graduate, according to ABC News.

“Undercover Colors” is a nail polish developed by four students at the University of North Carolina.

According to their mission statement, they aspire to “invent technologies that empower women to protect themselves from this heinous and quietly pervasive crime.”

“Hopefully I wouldn’t have to use it,” says Jakob Starnes, junior.

“I don’t see any flaws in it, but I’d rather live in a society where that sort of thing doesn’t happen.”

The polish allegedly detects common date rape drugs like Rohyphol, Xanax and GHB. A user simply dips their finger into a drink, and the color will change to alert them of the presence of the drug.

“It’s truly a great idea,” Heather Wakefield, chemistry teacher, said. “I don’t know exactly what it is chemically, but its really awesome [and] plausible that college kids could do that.”

The product won first place in NC State’s LuLu eGames, a competition in which students develop functional solutions to various world problems.

“I’m a huge fan. But we honestly shouldn’t have to prevent it,” Alex Goforth, junior, said.

“We should educate more people about [sexual assault].

However, its still a very good, revolutionary product.”

Not everyone is so convinced.

Maya Dunsenbery, executive director of popular blog Feministing, is certainly not

excited. She points out the fallacies of detecting drugs that aren’t the key factors in date rape.

Ironically, drugs slipped into

PO’P Nikki Lund

an alcoholic drink aren’t common. It’s mostly the consumption of the alcohol itself which rapists use to facilitate the assault.

The National Institute for Justice reported in 2007 that only 2.4 percent of female undergraduates who had been sexually assaulted suspected they had been slipped a drug.

Dunsenbery also criticizes that the polish may create a false sense of security for women who don’t know about the small probability that their drink will be spiked successfully.

Dunsenbery addresses the company directly, asking them if they thought at all about the repercussions of their product on the future victims of date rape.

She says women who are assaulted without wearing the preemptive nail polish will be blamed for not doing everything in their power to ensure their own safety.

Legions of popular feminists, like Dunsenbery, are criticizing what they believe to be another addition to the laundry list of things women are required to keep in mind to avoid assault.

They are also speaking out against products whose sole purpose is to prevent women from being raped.

They believe that innovative minds shouldn’t be developing more anti-rape products or creating new lists of “Do’s and Don’ts” for women to worry about as they simply walk down the street.

“It’s ridiculous,” Goforth said. “[The problem is] some people just aren’t informed. They don’t understand that it can happen to anyone.”

Marci Robin, who writes for XoJane, an online women’s magazine, referred to these problems as a sexual assault epidemic, and claimed that the only way to stop placing the blame on women is to educate men and boys not to rape at all. “[But] its like our military,” Starnes said. “We won’t put down our guns and try to convince others not to attack. That’s just not going to happen.”

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October 2014

4 • Features

Student releases “The Kraken”

Sophomore builds one-of-a-kind guitar from scratch Henry Jetmundsen Webmaster

Many aspiring musicians look for something to set them apart from the array of others just like them. Some create unique sounds that haven’t been heard before.

Others create a memorable stage personality. Sophomore Dominic Bonaventura is one of these musicians.

Bonaventura started playing the guitar when he was 10 years old and was introduced to Virgil Mandanici a year later.

Mandanici is the owner of Virgil Guitars where he custom builds and designs guitars. A year ago Mandanici offered Bonaventura an apprenticeship at Virgil Guitars to which he gladly accepted.

“Dominic would help out around the shop and do tasks such as cleaning in exchange for

my help in showing him how to build the guitar,” Mandanici said.

Bonaventura spent his summer after sophomore year at Virgil Guitars learning how to build guitars. At the end of the summer, he created his own guitar that he named The Kraken.

“Virgil walked me through the entire process. He basically showed me what to do and I had to repeat it,” Bonaventura said.

The Kraken features a cutaway body with an octopus and other various ocean life.

“I’ve always loved octopi and thought an ocean scene on a guitar would be really unique,” Bonaventura said.“I would definitely say that music is one of my main focuses for a future career, specifically acoustic finger style and instrumental electric.”

Mandanici taught Bonaventura how to make the artwork and place it on the guitar.

“We started slow and I showed Dominic how to use Adobe Illustrator and we gradually progressed,” said Mandanici.

Mandanici seemed pleased with the work that Bonaventura produced over the course of the summer.

“All of the artwork and inlay featured on the guitar was actually drawn and cutout by Dominic himself,” Mandanici said.

The only parts that Virgil wouldn’t allow anyone but himself to do were the most intense and dangerous ones that could result in serious injury. Routing is one of these steps, and requires drilling cavities and holes into the body and neck.

The Kraken exemplifies some of the talent possessed in the world of music and art. The same talent that can be seen at sold out concerts, can be seen walking the halls.

Courtesy of Nina Bonaventura

Dominic Bonaventura shows off his guitar, The Kraken. With the assistance of Virgil Mandanici, he was aided in building and designing this guitar at Virgil Guitars over the summer.

October 2014

Scan Here: pepoplant.com

To see sophomore Riley Moran participate in a mock audition for Howl-OScream scan code or visit www.pepoplant.com Howl-O-Scream is hosted at Busch Gardens from Sept. 26 - Nov. 1 and runs from 7:30 p.m. - 1 a.m.

The Experiment House requires online reservation prior to the night of the event.

seaworldparks.com/ en/howloscream

Features • 5

Howl-O-Scream’s undead welcomes fresh face Senior ‘brings the scare’ at popular local Halloween attraction Jessica Jagodzinski Print Editor-in-Chief

While Florida doesn’t experience the traditional markings of autumn, Floridians can still participate in one annual October event: Busch Gardens Howl-O-Scream.

Senior John Dominici contributes personally to the horror by working among the midst in the returning Blood Asylum, Death Water Bayou and Circus of Superstition houses. Dominici works as a “bungee”, an actor supported by a bungee cord harness who jumps from the ceiling of the houses and is pulled back over the heads of people walking through.

Auditioning on Aug. 22, in a back lot of Busch Gardens, Dominici was among hundreds of other applicants vying to become one of the undead, haunted and scary. The crowd was divided up into groups and taken on to their rehearsal stage.

“There they had a mini haunted house set up where they had us show the casting directors how we would scare people,” Dominici said, “followed by some [improv] activities like showing how we would chase after people in character and how we would react in a type of group-mob of a specific character.”

During auditions applicants were asked to perform multiple improvs such as to personify their greatest fear, portray a child who is about to die, or collect prey like a zombie. Every situation a plausible rehearsal for acting in a Howl-O-Scream environment.

There are certain factors that actors had to represent, according to Howl-O-Scream Project Manager Ben DeWitt. The ability to anticipate, scare and reset were judged by a panel of casting directors “American Idol” style. The directors were watching for auditionees getting tired during exercises, and if they were able to “bring the scare.”

Annually there are 900-1000 applicants, but 700-800 are typically hired, according to DeWitt. Because the minimum age to apply is 18, teenagers make up only small percent of the acceptance rate.

“We were all a little nervous, but as we were watching people leave, we saw how many of them got green slips, which meant they were hired,” Dominici said. “We calmed down and felt pretty confident

The Experiment, a house designed to exploit participant’s biggest fears, returns this year to Howl-O-Scream.

House designers continuously study society’s prominent fears in order to effectively scare park-goers.

because we all thought we did well.”

The casting directors reassured the auditionees that they were hiring their biggest cast ever “because they are trying a few new big ideas this year so they needed a lot of people,” Dominici said.

“My official job is that I’m a sub, which means that I fill in for people who are not going to be there for that evening,” Dominici said. During Howl-O-Scream, “that evening” means 7:30 p.m. to 1 a.m., which is a problem limiting many working teenagers because they are still attending school.

“Well it just happens that my manager is also a teacher in Pinellas county, so she understands that I can’t work as late as other people.”

Dominici said, “I will only work until 11:30 p.m. on Thursdays and Sundays and I don’t start until 5 p.m., which gives me two hours for homework.”

“I thought that it would be an awesome experience to have, especially for my last Halloween in high school,” Dominici said.

Howl-O-Scream will feature two new houses: Deadfall and Zombie Containment Unit 15. Deadfall is a haunted Victorian greenhouse garden complete with eerie sound of child whistling and singing throughout the house.

Zombie Containment Unit 15 is the first house that allows the guests to “fight back,” Director of Creative Services Scott Sweson said.

Guests will be equipped with Zombie Eradication Devices (ZEDs), which paralyze the zombies walking through the house. Beware: not all zombies can be stopped.

The returning houses are The Experiment, Death Water Bayou, The Basement, Blood Asylum, Circus of Superstition and Zombie Mortuary. The scariest, most personal and intense house, according to Dominici, is The Experiment, which will feature new tests, live insects and reptiles. Swenson said the Blood Asylum has also been “rebloodied” and is “bloodier than ever.”

“I think everyone should come out to HOS. This year is going to be a lot different than other years. The people designing the event are all new staff and the two new houses for this year are just incredible,” Dominici said.

Courtesy of Busch Gardens

Death Water Bayou features the Voodoo Queen and her zombie minions.

This Howl-O-Scream attraction is among the oldest returning houses.

October 2014

6 • Opinions

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

Print Editor in Chief Jessica Jagodzinski Online Editor in Chief Robby Killette News Editor Katie Whitson Features Editor Melissa Jassir Opinions Editor Bennett Taylor Arts and Entertainment Editor Helen Kahassai Sports Editor E.V. Phillips Centerspread Editor Meg Barrett Photography Editor Haley Babbitt Public Relations Allison Figueroa Webmaster Henry Jetmundsen Online Editor Morgan Robinson Business Manager Matt Blydenburgh Copy Editor Emily Greiwe Staff Artist Nikki Lund Photographer Emalee Herrera Ysabella Canto Circulation Manager LaNae Fluellen Staff Rachel Ferreri Katie Chae Allyssa Ashmeade Faculty Adviser Louisa Ogle

Society desensitizes teens to violence Editorial Read the headlines. What does it probably say? War? Energy crisis? Economic crash? Unlikely.

Instead, bold letters spell out an eight letter word, littered today’s news- violence. The stories spans all sections; whether it be professional athletes accused of abusing their wives or big name celebrities involved in domestic violence.

But violence, especially domestic violence, occurs mainly with teenagers in high school and college.

Violence in modern culture exists everywhere, appearing in headlines across all mediums of the news- TV, the radio, and the physical newspaper. A celebrity accused of domestic violence, a deadly riot, arson-- all forms of violence appear daily in all parts of the country.

For high school students, these stories tend to go over their heads;

these issues have filed into a daily issue, a statistic that will be a part of the nightly news after each day.

But when news of domestic violence hits a high school population, students feel a direct impact to the incident.

The world has grown numb to violence, as it constantly appears in the news and on social media.

Teenagers often are on the front lines of violence, with fights and

arguments constantly arising among high schoolers.

The Internet has become a breeding ground for the manifestation of violence, as Twitter accounts, hashtags, and Facebook posts all display cruel forms of violence, from drunk fights to domestic disputes.

High schoolers need to learn to actively oppose such accounts, as they desensitize the public and

Teenagers must treat issues of violence with equal weight.

lead to even more violent encounters. By eliminating these accounts and videos, teenagers should learn to treat all instances of violence seriously, not finding humor in some cases.

Teenagers must treat issues of violence with equal weight; condemning some instances of violence while laughing at other instances is a grand form of hypocrisy. If students witness violence, they must learn to report it, and properly handle issues among fellow students. Students should not engage in violence, or actively aid in hurting another person. If someone witnesses a problem or abusive relationship, they must contact the principal or teachers, if the matter is within the school. For encounters outside of school, The national domestic violence hot line can be reached at 1-800-799-7233.

Over 70 percent of all domestic violence goes unreported. If students see any of the following signs, they should contact proper authorities.

The Pep O’ Plant is Plant High School’s student run 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 Ogle’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.

Like us on Facebook pepoplant Follow us on Twitter @plantpop Follow us on Pinterest pepoplantnews Follow us on Instagram @pepoplant PO’P Allison Figueroa

October 2014

Opinions • 7

Students only join interest clubs for resumes

S

Melissa Jassir Features Editor

tudents can rattle off an endless list of the interest clubs they “participate” in. Their idea of participating is different from its true definition. Often times, their participation does not actually mean that they help and collaborate to make the club excel.

A common misconception students have is that joining as many clubs as possible is impressive. Students think that participating in the 20 plus interest clubs offered will look impressive on college applications. Joining clubs means paying fees, showing up to the club meetings to get out of class, and never thinking of those clubs again.

However, colleges are not impressed by this superficiality.

They want to see students that are affiliated with a small amount of

clubs in which they have made a true difference or impact.

The school does not offer a variety of clubs so students will join them all. The purpose of the school offering a variety of clubs it to appeal to students with different interests. The point of astronomy and ecology club, for example, is not to have hundreds of members that want cool t-shirts; these clubs want members who truly care about science and the environment.

It is unfair for students to join clubs just to “look involved.”

Best Buddies is a club in which students are paired with students with disabilities with the intent of fostering friendships.

However, the purpose of clubs like this one is defeated when kids who don’t care join; all they want is to look like they are participating in a beneficial activity. They expect praise without putting in effort.

By caring about clubs, students will be more apt to participate and help the club excel; it will also benefit the clubs, as they will be taken more seriously.

Students should refrain from joining a multitude of clubs because when they are reporting

them to colleges, especially when using the Common App, they cannot just list all of their clubs.

The Common App asks its applicants to list ten activities that they care about- in detail. If students

are just joining clubs to boost their resume, it is going to be evident.

Instead of haphazardly joining clubs for superficial reasons, students should apply to clubs

PO’P Emalee Herrara

that they are truly passionate about. Students should join to share their enthusiasm for the topic; it will be beneficial to both students and clubs to have students who care.

Class performance outweighs boost from AP classes

Matthew Blydenburgh Business Manager Most students feel immense pressure to choose as many AP classes as possible during the class selection process. However, many don’t consider their ability to succeed in the college level, strenuous classes. The reward of a .08 GPA increase per class heavily sways many students’ thoughts of what classes to take in high school.

The potential for a student to perform poorly in these advanced classes is caused by the increased

inclination of a student to take an AP course, rather than an a regular or honors class.

Juniors are limited to three selections for their English course: English 3 Honors Gifted, AP Language and Composition FUSE, and AP Language and Composition.

Taking into account that two of these classes are college-level, students once again are exposed to this inclination to take such rigorous courses.

Also, there is no option for a “regular” class, further encouraging students to stray towards advanced classes.

The introduction of a “regular” level option would allow for a wider array of options. This would allow for a more accurate assessment of students’ skills and predict which class they would find

the best success in.

For the school as a whole, 81 percent of students participate in AP courses. The workload associated with college level courses only increases the stress associated with the average high school student.

There is a seemingly endless stream of pressure generated by peers for students to take part in as many AP’s as possible. Spring programming sessions bring about an increase of this pressure, as peers begin sharing what classes they intend on taking the next year.

Those with less rigorous courses than friends have an increased likelihood in increasing their workload, to avoid the potential for ridicule presented with this choice.

Students need to take stronger

consideration into what courses they themselves feel would be in their best interest. Also, guidance counselors and parents both need to take an active role into what they view would be the best

choice to suit the skills of their student. Because of this, GPAs have a greater capability to increase, and the pressure so heavily placed on students will greatly reduce.

PO’P Matt Blydenburgh

October 2014

8 • Centerspread

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There is no better time of year than the month of October to make popcorn, curl up on the couch and fully indulge in the horror genre.

Here are some recommendations to get started.

‘ ‘BEETLEJUICE’ “Beetlejuice,” directed by Tim Burton, is a family friendly, appealing mess.

Michael Keaton’s performance as Betelgeuse was surreal, demented, and delightful, and Burton’s early work was sweet and funny, and not terribly frightening.

The sensibility of the film is not completely straight, and the movie has a rhythm that is somehow easygoing and frantic at the same time.

The supernatural dark comedy would be enjoyed by viewers of all ages and horror experience levels.

Internet Movie Database

“The W horror m the warm “The W of a man house, an in the m The m his first Potter.” franchise wizard t trouble o

October 2014

Centerspread • 9

‘JAWS’ The masterpiece that is “Jaws,” the 1975 horror classic directed by Steven Spielberg, can be appreciated by any audience.

The shark attack thriller evokes feelings of tension and fear, which prevents the viewer from ever looking away from the screen. People can watch the film over and over again without it getting old.

Even those who haven’t seen the film know the premise - a colossal

great white shark attacks beach marine biologist, police chief and professional shark hunter team up to hunt it down) and its classic lines, such as “You’re gonna need a bigger boat.”

If a student is a fan of horror, “Jaws” is a must-watch. If somebody isn’t a fan of horror, “Jaws” is a must-watch.

Spielberg knows the human mind, and exactly how to reach the deep terror inside.

Internet Movie Database

‘AMERICAN HORROR STORY’ on TV, but is not for the faint of heart either.

The series is suspenseful, but includes weird and creepy moments, such as the strange deaths, insane characters or the random musical numbers.

If students enjoyed the novel “Miss Peregrine’s Home for Peculiar Children,” they should enjoy AHS because of the similar, slightly eerie atmosphere, kids with paranormal powers and evil villains.

The fourth season “Freak Show,” is set in 1950s Florida, and premiered on Oct. 8.

‘THE WOMAN IN BLACK’

Woman in Black,” is a British movie that can give chills to even mest people.

Woman in Black” tells the story n attempting to sell a haunted nd experiencing the terror of it meantime. movie stars Daniel Radcliffe in adult role after filming “Harry Enthusiasts of the Potter e will be urging the former to use his wand in times of or fly on his broom rather than

walk the creepy, deserted road in the middle of the night.

The film exchanges the blood and guts of gruesome murders for the suspenseful anticipation of long dark hallways and eerie rocking chairs, and while not a nail-biter for intense horror fans, could be nerve wracking for those new to the genre.

For long-time horror fans, the lack of screamers and horrific deaths may bore them, but those elements would appeal to those unfamiliar with the genre.

CBS Films

Artwork by PO’P Nikki Lund, Story by Centerspread Editor Meg Barrett

Effects Networks

If people enjoy supernatural horror, such as “Sleepy Hollow” or “It,” then they would enjoy “American Horror Story (AHS).”

While not a scary movie, “AHS” is still a solid choice for horror fanatics.

It stars people such as Evan Peters, Jessica Lange and Emma Roberts.

Each season features a different storyline with the same actors playing different characters.

The first season was titled “Murder House,” the second season was “Asylum,” and the third season was “Coven.”

The show is not the goriest horror

10 • Advertisement

October 2014

October 2014

Arts & Entertainment • 11

Pizza War Grips South Tampa

Review

‘The Maze Runner’ entertains

Students vote on local pizzerias Allison Figueroa Public Relations

hhhgg Bennett Taylor Opinions Editor The joys of a freshman English class: awkward silences, lackluster lessons luring listeners to sleep and the kindling of friendships among 14-year-olds.

From the joys of grammar lessons to the confusion of reading books like “To Kill a Mockingbird”, most lessons from this class often fades into darkness, never to be searched for or found in the future. One of these lectures likely explained the use and purpose of rhetorical questions.

But who cares about rhetorical questions? None other than the writers of “The Maze Runner”, another book adaptation of a book series that rivaled “The Hunger Games” series in popularity for years.

Wes Bell directs the movie starring “Teen Wolf ” star Dylan O’Brien as Thomas, an oblivious hunk who refuses to follow instructions given by any of the other characters.

Thomas Brodie- Sangster plays Newt, the co-leader of the boys stuck in the Glade, surrounded by a concrete and metal maze.

The plot of “The Maze Runner” excites and scares viewers, combining dystopian themes with classic survivor ideals, such as a history of unrest and the formation of a tribal hierarchy.

Viewers also can look forward to a sequel, as a thrilling twist leads to more questions than answers.

With multiple crises, gory action and shocks sprinkled throughout, the action of the film succeeded in attracting fans to the bloody and adrenaline packed violence the movie entails.

But no creation is without sin.

In “The Maze Runner”, the writers lived and breathed rhetorical questions when writing the screenplay.

The constant firing of backto-back questions, like a revolver operated by the best of cowboys,

unnaturally haunts every conversation.

The typical line “What am I doing here?” might have been said by the characters a dozen times.

The character’s conversations are unnatural, full of awkward silences and predictable lines.

Besides the few main characters, all of the boys in the Glade remain nameless, without any recognition.

The few main characters only exist as static characters, with few traits.

In addition to weak character development, abundances of cliches, such as a chubby, goofy supporting character, dozens of dumb lines and the everpresent “ Oh, no, I’ve been shot and the main character cries over my dead body as he’s dragged away” situation.

The movie also struggles in adding key details from the books, such as telecommunication between two characters, and insults that the Gladers use as a part of their developed speech.

The film presents intriguing situations that symbolize events that have happened in history.

When Gally confronts the Thomas during the Glader’s escape attempt, he says that they belong to the Glade; they must stay there.

This can be related to current situations where children form close ties to a home or place.

If they are taken from the home or place, they will break down, as they leave the only place they have every known; the future, dark and unknown, is extremely terrifying for the child, like Gally was of the outside world.

“The Maze Runner” delivered an intriguing mix of drama and thriller in 113 minutes.

Unfortunately, the action scenes must be buffered with lingering, robotic dialogue between undeveloped characters.

But if thinking about which movie to see, “The Maze Runner” is worthy of the $10 investment.

It’s just a piece of bread with sauce and cheese on top. A simple food, but it transcends borders of state and country, a worldwide sensation with thousands of different styles.

One mention of pizza, and people wage war like it’s the Crusades, debating Chicago deepdish vs. New York thin crust and countless other regional variations.

When you peel back the cheese of this simple food, you reveal the saucy details: pizza is truly a big deal. Forgetaboutit.

Sally O’ Neals has been around since 1985 and describes themselves as “South Tampa’s Gourmet Delivery.” On their website, they claim to visit farmers’ markets for all their vegetables, prepare all their sauces by hand and use only the highest quality ingredients. At $11.25 for a 12 inch cheese pizza, this attention to detail doesn’t come cheap, but it sure pays off.

“The crust is awesome,” Caroline Montgomery, freshman, said.

“Its actually edible!” The cheese is obviously top-notch as well, making for a great overall experience with minimum grease. “Its good gourmet pizza,” Sky Moore, junior, said. Sally O’ Neals is a very general pizza experience, not focusing on a particular style or region, but it’s definitely worth a trip.

If you’re looking for a New York style pie in the Tampa Bay area, Eddie and Sam’s is the only

place to go. The crust is perfectly thin and crunchy; in fact, the dough almost cracks when folded.

“They import New York water,” freshman Zach Robinson said. “So you know it’s authentic.” The cost of importing water surprisingly doesn’t seem to affect the price at all. In fact, a 12 inch cheese pizza runs at $8.99. The cheese can be a little bit greasy and may require some blotting

But 14 inches is the smallest size they sell. “Westshore has huge pizzas,” Karlita Garelli, junior, said. “They’re amazing and delicious!” The crust is relatively standard, not too thick and not too thin, but the cheese is what sets it apart. “Cheese at Westshore is a lot better than other places.” Drew Taylor, junior, said.

Pizza has grown into the most widely sold food in the nation,

PO’P Allison Figueroa

with a napkin, but the diner-type environment and by-the-slice purchase options make it feel like a little slice of New York.

Westshore Pizza seems to be a favorite among students. With 30 Bay Area locations, according to Westshore Pizza’s official website, its easy to see why half of all students surveyed went with them.

Not to mention the outstanding service and quality of the pie overall.

The Westshore Pizza website freely distributes coupons, but the price is fairly cheap. $11.99 can get you a 14 inch cheese.

stretching across the continent like Louis and Clark. From Margherita to Neopolitan, all the way to New York style and Chicago deep-dish, pizza will continue to change as long as people still love it.

It has become as distinct as the people of the United States themselves, as varied as our nation’s great landscapes, as recognizable as a sharp New York accent or a sweet Southern drawl.

Who would have thought Italian bread, sauce and cheese would evolve into such a staple of American cuisine?

PO’P Jessica Jagodzinski

Tag your concert photos #POPshows and you can be featured in the next issue of the Pep O’ Plant!

October 2014

12 • Arts & Entertainment

Troupe 0817 prepares for Individual Events LaNae Fluellen Circulation Manager The theatre department home to a variety of gifted students, on Oct. 18, these thespians will showcase their singing, acting, and technical abilities at Individual Events.

Co-president of theatre, Orlaugh O’Rouke, senior, shared the general guidelines of IE’s. Members of Troupe 0817 will compete at Wharton High School against other thespians and theatre students in District 9. Everyone will perform an individual event in front of three judges.

The events include, monologues, duets, ensembles, pantomimes, solo’s, or large group

Review

E.V. Phillips Sports Editor A new doughnut-centric cafe is in town, with a personal approach that sets them apart from big corporate doughnut chains. Perk’s Donut Bar, a neighborhood restaurant, opened on Dale Mabry on Sept. 4. The gourmet approach is rare, yet adored by foodies and average hungry customers alike.

musicals. There are also technical events, such as makeup, costume, and sound design.

The judges give the performers a score, a superior being the highest.

In every room one event is chosen to perform in front of the entire district and out of those performers one event is chosen to represent the entire district at the state competition in March.

Still climbing the ranks of prestige, the drama department had a huge success at IE’s last year.

According to VP of House, Jaide Garcia last years seniors Nick Santanach, Danielle Oakley, and Shelby Gilberto’s ensemble received straight superiors, and was chosen to represent District

9 at the state competition.

“It was amazing, we didn’t expect to be selected to perform in front the entire district, let alone represent the entire district!”, Shelby Gilberto, theatre alumni, said.

Going into IE’s this year the drama department has a title to retain.

“Since our school was selected to be the District 9 representative last year….I hope we are able to do it again this year!” Lauren Vu, secretary, said.

Vu’s ensemble will be performing an original pantomime.

“This year I am performing a duet scene from a play, hand picked by Dan Franke [new drama teacher]. It’s quite interesting:

secret love affairs, lesbians, you know the good stuff ”, senior Logan Bell said.

“I will be performing a duet acting scene, and look forward to a great day of theatre friendship,” Summer Provance, co-president, said.

IE’s offer more than just a chance to perform in front of judges. ”I loved getting feedback from the judges, it helped me grow as a performer, and being there with my friends made it an unforgettable experience,” Gabby Sosa, theatre alumni, said.

Sosa performed a musical solo last year, receiving 2 superiors, and 1 excellent, for an overall superior rating.

Quick Facts District 9 Individual Events When: October 18 Where: Wharton High School Time: 7 a.m. - 8 a.m.

From Plant...

40-50 participants 31 acts

Perks introduces decadent doughnuts to area The establishment itself a small, cozy place. Light blue walls and modern-like furniture may catch eyes and give the shop a sleek look upon entry, and the bar where glazes and toppings are placed are visible and open to customers.

The concept of the restaurant is not to choose doughnuts off of a menu or out of a selection like at well-known doughnut shops Dunkin’ Donuts and Krispy Kreme.

Choices are instead laid out on the menu, and customers are to “build” their own doughnut.

This allows for different combinations of their glazes, toppings and drizzles, giving people the freedom to let their taste buds and imaginations run wild.

With this type of free customization, customers may be taken back and simply want a

classic glazed doughnut. However, even the most basic of doughnuts are gourmet tasting, and though they are on the small side, every doughnut is fresh, satisfying and crafted directly in front of the customer.

Chocolate glazed with sprinkles doughnut, a classic that has been done many times before, still tastes fresh and unique when served at Perk’s.

The hot, chocolate icing creates a liquid covering that compliments the doughnuts extremely well.

Stepping away from more “average Joe” doughnuts is the exceptionally delicious maple glazed doughnut topped with bacon, recommended by employees, and for good reason.

The sweet maple drizzle and salty bacon crumbles combine to make the doughnut taste like an entire traditional pancake and

bacon breakfast.

Aside from delectable pastries, the cafe also has weekday hours catered to early risers, as well as students just getting out of school.

It’s open from 6:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 6:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Friday, and 6:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Sunday.

This, combined with the close relativity to school, makes Perk’s an ideal spot to grab doughnuts

Tag photos of your Halloween costume #Poppinhalloween and you can be featured online at Pepoplant.com After school special: Free drink with the purchase of a medium sub

PO’P E.V. Phillips

as both a before-school breakfast and an after-school snack.

Perk’s a doughnut cafe that is as captivating as it is unique, and at a reasonable $1.25 per doughnut, this new gourmettasting doughnut shop satisfies a customer’s sweet tooth, kick their taste buds in the face and put going back to the cafe for more on their agenda for the near future.

“

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14 • Sports

October 2014

Fall Conditioning

Teams begin training for upcoming seasons long before they start Katie Whitson News Editor

Column

NFL triumphs over college football Robby Killette Online Editor-in-Chief Most sports fans prefer to watch either professional or collegiate football. Both have their defining pros and cons, but it comes down to personal preference. I personally enjoy all levels of football, but professional barely sneaks out as my favorite.

The skill level that the NFL players have over college players is a reason I prefer the pros. All games are full of talented players and are mostly fair games. Some players are better than others, but only a select few have the ability to play past the college level.

When you watch a college game, there might be four or five NFL caliber players on both teams combined.

Even when the regular season is over, there’s always something NFL oriented happening. There’s the playoffs and the Pro Bowl in Jan., the Super Bowl and the draft combine in Feb., the draft in May, training camp throughout the summer and the preseason in Aug. The NFL keeps their fans busy throughout the year.

The NFL tops college football simply because of Fantasy Football.

Fantasy Football brings a group of fans together to compete, have fun and most importantly trash talk. There are not many things that are as highly anticipated throughout the year.

Fantasy Football might be bigger than the NFL itself.

There have been multiple alumni to play at both levels.

Currently, there are three former Panthers in the NFL: Orson Charles of the New Orleans Saints, James Wilder Jr. of the Cincinnati Bengals and Aaron Murray of the Kansas City Chiefs.

The beginning of fall marks the start of rigorous preseason conditioning for the soccer, basketball and lacrosse teams. Although tryouts aren’t for a few more weeks, prospective soccer players are expected to attend conditioning practices.

Boys soccer coach John Feeley thinks that conditioning allows teams to become more cohesive.

“It helps us build team unity, to start working towards a goal and to start becoming a team,” Feeley said.

Some players feel that conditioning helps even the playing field for upcoming tryouts.

“Conditioning is key to keep-

ing us in shape so that tryouts are focused on how good of a soccer player you are, not how in shape you are at that point and time,” Curtis Ford, senior, said.

Not only does conditioning allow players to get back into physical shape, it allows players to better acquaint themselves with potential new teammates. Players from different grades and with different experience levels bond while refining their skills.

“It allows for us to get to know each other and become friends before there is the competition of who is going to make the team,” Michael Themides, senior, said.

The girls and boys basketball teams have begun conditioning as well. These players share the same enthusiasm for preseason

conditioning. “[Conditioning is a] great bonding experience and it gets you super hyped for the season,” Caroline Cumby, sophomore, said.

The girls basketball team ran laps around the track and “suicide” drills multiple times per week in order to get fit for the upcoming season.

“Every year the expectations of the difficulty level are fulfilled.

The sweat and tears are worth it though. I love spending time with my teammates, no matter how difficult the task,” Emily Carroll, senior, said.

The boys basketball team used sprints, long-distance running and restraint band exercises four days a week in order to get back into shape for the season.

“It’s a tough workout but it helps our team get stronger and be more in shape and ready for the season,” Chad Singletary, junior, said.

In addition to the soccer team, the boys lacrosse team also began intense conditioning this fall.

“Not only does it get us in shape for the upcoming season, but it also grows us closer as a team and gets us working together,” Wright Holman, sophomore, said.

While there’s no guarantee that players who attend conditioning will make the team after tryouts, preseason conditioning allows teams to “enter the season with an advantage” and allows players to “accomplish more than they think they can do,” Feeley said.

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Members of the boys soccer team do pyramid sprint drills, sprints that increase in duration after doing them each time, during conditioning. The team did a variety of both core and running drills during conditioning practices to improve stamina, as well as get prepared for the upcoming season.

PO’P E.V. Phillips

Henry Brannan, junior, bench presses during boys lacrosse’s conditioning in the weight room while Tanner Anthony, freshman, spots. The team spent this session working out on various machines and doing other exercises in intervals of 30 seconds.

PO’P E.V. Phillips

Matt Hafer, sophomore, trains by doing dumbbell presses while at conditioning for boy’s lacrosse. Boys lacrosse conditions as much as possible during the offseason to build strength and become prepared before their official season stars early next year.

October 2014

Sports • 15

Ballot regarding unionization of athletes to be cast LaNae Fluellen Staff Writer

A large percentage of North American colleges and universities offer athletic programs. In past years, student athletes have received athletic scholarships, nice housing and other amenities.

As of April 2014, some college athletes are looking to unionize.

Northwestern University started things off, according to ESPN. go.com, when former quarterback, Kain Colter, allied with the United Steelworkers and oversaw the ballot to allow unionization.

Why are commits excited to play in college?

Colter said that unionization would allow for better protection of injured student athletes.

This change could also allow for the full cost of the student athlete to be covered. The current scholarship is about $3,000 short of actual student athlete expenses, forcing them to pick up the tab.

ThinkProgress.com highlighted the fact that star guard for the University of Connecticut Huskies, Shabazz Napier, goes to bed hungry, because his scholarship doesn’t cover the extra costs of living such as food and basic necessities. As student athletes, they

don’t have time to join the workforce.

Unionization of college athletics has became a topic of debate.

Future student athletes are also sharing their opinions. “I think [student athletes] do a lot for the university and bring in the most revenue. The amount of money they make for the university greatly outweighs their paid tuition.” Jake Fruhmorgan, senior Clemson football commit, said.

“Physical contact players are at the greatest risk, they are putting their life in danger. Alumni pay for most athletic scholarships,

and then the school receives all the revenue.” Raeder Frantzen, senior Florida Atlantic football commit said.

Although most student athletes would benefit, not all agree with unionization. “You’re already getting your education payed for, so its your responsibility as a committed student athlete to make money, and provide for any other necessities that you may need.”

Angel Gaskin, senior Maryland volleyball commit, said.

Not just prospective, but also current student athletes are weighing in. “I received good

housing, a laptop, paid tuition, and all I have to do is come to practice, and perform well, thats an amazing deal.” Ruthy Simpson, alum USF track and field athlete, said.

This fall, athletes should know the results of the Northwestern ballot. The National College players Association, created by Ramogi Huma, a former college athlete, said that they ultimately want better protection for the athletes.

For future and present college athletes, the results of this ballot could change college athletics forever.

Scan here:

pepoplant.com

“I get to continue playing football past high school.”

– Raeder Frantzen Florida Atlantic commit, football

“I get to make a name for the program I’m playing for.”

– Angel Gaskin Maryland commit, volleyball

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“There’s a new atmosphere there. I get to see a new part of the world.”

– Jake Fruhmorgan Clemson commit, football

Scan here to view the full profile on these upcoming college athletes

October 2014

Online • 16

What’s POPin’ Online

Go to Pepoplant.com to view more stories, sports schedules and results

Students, teachers perform at Panther Prowl pep rally

PO’P Haley Babbitt

Before their performance, La Sertoa President Rachel Goding (right) and Vice President Sara Ines (left) get in the spirit. La Sertoa won the service club dance competition.

PO’P Haley Babbitt

Melissa Sigmon, physical education teacher, leads the teachers in their performance at Panther Prowl. The teachers had a dance battle with the Danceros and the administration.

Plant routs Riverview in Homecoming game

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Players join hands while the team prepares to kickoff after a touchdown. Plant beat Riverview 46-16 on Oct. 2.

School celebrates Spirit Week

PO’P Jessica Jagodzinski

Olivia Adkins, freshman, and Katrina Dobrov, sophomore approach staff and students during lunch. Adkins, dressed as a mime, spent Circus Day not speaking.