POP December 2015

‘ PEP O PLANT

H.B. Plant High School• 2415 S. Himes Ave • Tampa, FL, 33629 •December 2015 • Volume 89• Issue 4

it could happen to anyone With a sudden rise in public mass shootings, the importance of school safety has been heightened to new amounts. Read more on Page 6

December 2015

2 • News

Campus safety rated by students Allison Figueroa Centerpread Editor

World?

in the

What

Although mass shootings have decreased overall in past years, according to gunviolencearchive. com, preventing them is still a concern. With the lockdown earlier this month, and the 47,804 incidents of gun violence recorded just in the U.S so far this year, many school campuses and other public institutions are reevaluating their security policies.

“Anyone can just walk onto campus [by new building] and I feel like no one really checks for that,” ShanTorrian Underwood, junior, said. “There’s not really a lot of cameras around there.”

Underwood rates the overall

safety of the school as an 8/10, although she thinks some precautions are a little overboard, like not being able to drop off items at the office.

The recent racially-charged threats at the University of Missouri have added a digital element, as the threats were originally made on YikYak, an anonymous posting board popular on college campuses. Scanning social media sites for threats and differentiating between serious and empty threats is a difficult task for law enforcement.

“I would only really be concerned about not knowing what’s going on,” Laura Jones, junior, said. “[The administration] would make an announcement like ‘hold everyone for lunch,’ and

I won’t know what’s going on, so it could be really serious or just ‘the cafeteria is too busy.’”

As of early October, there have been 47 school shootings, with 26 classified as attacks resulting in injury or death and 21 classified as accidental shootings or attempted suicides, according to ABC news.

At least two school shootings have occurred per month in 2015, with five in October.

Maha Farooqi, senior, has felt secure at school for all four years.

“Even with the current events [of shootings], [the administration] tries hard to lockdown the school at the right time and run drills,” Farooqi said. “If I feel [threatened or discriminated against] there’s always someone to go to, and to conference with, and that makes

me feel safe.”

All students interviewed by the Pep O’ Plant staff said they feel generally safe at school, and

believe that the administration overall does a good job keeping students secure.

China builds artificial islands

Terrorist attacks prompt new plans

Climate talks aim for aggreement

Li-Fi improves upon Wi-Fi

With the attacks in Paris and San Bernardino, terrorism has been the most discussed topic of recency. The 14 Americans that were killed in California prompted President Obama to address the nation four days later on Dec. 6. The California shooters, Syed Rizwan Farook and Tashfeen Malik, pledged allegiance to ISIS. Obama’s plan to protect Americans from ISIS stated in the speech includes continued airstrikes, training and equipment for Iraqi and Syrian forces, ceasefires and political resolutions to the Syrian war.

Why should you care?

The terrorist attacks are terrible acts upon society. In addition, they have magnified previous controversies including immigration, gun control laws and war on terror. Like many issues, there is no clear solution to terrorism and it has become one of the defining problems of the past decade.

(Sources: The White House)

Held in Paris from Nov. 30 to Dec. 11, the 2015 United Nations climate talks achieved a legally binding agreement between all the countries in the world. This universal agreement intends to provide solutions to limiting the change in global temperature below 2 degrees Celsius by the year 2100. In addition, political leaders are attempting to solve other environmental problems like the preservation of the rainforests.

Why should you care?

Two degrees Celsius may sound low but it is actually large and significant considering the surface of the entire planet is heating up by this amount.

According to the New York Times, the heat accumulating on the Earth because of human emissions is about the same as the heat that would be released by 400,000 Hiroshima atomic bombs exploding across the planet every day.

(Sources: New York Times)

Now onto a lighter matter: LiFi or light fidelity. It is similar to Wi-Fi except that it uses visible light waves instead of radio waves and is 100 times faster.

Essentially, a modified LED light bulb can provide high speed Internet to any kind of device as long as it shines light on the device. It is being developed by Professor Harald Haas and his colleagues and is predicted to be a $113 billion industry by 2022.

Why should you care?

Radio waves are how we currently transmit wireless data but they are limited and expensive. LED light bulbs are much more energy efficient and readily available than radio waves. In addition, they can have many applications, such as in transportation. Cars have LED based headlights which can be used to communicate with each other, preventing accidents. Plus it can allow wireless internet access on airplanes.

(Sources: ted.com, purelifi.com)

In the Spratly Islands archipelago of the South China Sea, China has been building artificial islands. The islands have been under territorial dispute between China, the Philippines, Malaysia, Vietnam and Taiwan for their possible large oil and natural gas reserves.

Why should you care?

As one of the world’s busiest shipping lanes, over 10 million barrels of oil move through the sea, according to the US Energy Information Administration. In addition, a United States warship passing 12 nautical miles from one of the islands has angered the Chinese. "If the United States continues with these kinds of dangerous, provocative acts, there could well be a seriously pressing situation between frontline forces from both sides on the sea and in the air, or even a minor incident that sparks war," Chinese Admiral Wu Shengli said.

(Sources: New York Times)

PO’P Gianna Cacciatore

Joey Carlo, senior, struggles to get in the school through the locked front doors. Administration has kept the front doors locked for safety.

Check out pepoplant.com for new articles!

News • 3

December 2015

Tampa’s Downtown on Ice continues Maggie Fitzsimmons Copy Editor Returning to Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park this year is Tampa’s Downtown on Ice, an ice skating rink open to the public located in the heart of Downtown Tampa. Tampa’s Downtown on Ice opened on Nov. 20 this year and will stay open until Jan. 3.

The admission cost is $12 which includes skate rental and 90 minutes of ice skating.

“This year is our sixth season with Tampa’s Downtown on Ice. The purpose was to activate Downtown Tampa and Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park as well as to extend the holiday season in Tampa and start new family traditions,” said Linda Carlo, executive director of Friends of Tampa Recreation, Inc. Over the years the rink has gained popularity and continues to ensure its annual return. The

PO’P Zoe Antinori

Laura Jones (junior) and Isabella Pittman (junior) skate through the night as the Christmas classic, “Walking in a Winter Wonderland,” plays from the rink’s speakers.

rink receives over 20,000 skaters each winter and thousands of more spectators.

“My favorite part about the skating rink is watching people wipe out on the ice and learning

to skate with my friend,” said Isabella Pittman, junior.

Making a tradition out of going to the rink with family or friends has become common among students. Many have found that the skating becomes more enjoyable and easier each time they go.

“This year was my first time going skating [in Curtis Hixon] in three years, so it was also really nice to go back because I remember when I used to go there with my younger sister and brothers every winter. Even though we don’t do that anymore, I love going back with my friends because we always have so much fun,” Pittman said.

Many students really enjoy skating and continue to visit the rink throughout the holiday season. "[Ice skating] is so fun and I love going fast. At first I hold onto the rail and then eventually I

get the hang of gliding on the ice instead of trying to walk, which makes you go faster," said Lauren Hines, sophomore.

Others are happy just hanging out there with friends and buying food at the snack bar. Some, though, can agree that ice skating can be difficult if you’ve grown up in Florida where ice doesn’t last long without melting, even in the winter.

“The hardest part of going to the skating rink was using muscles I’m not used to using and knowing that it will hurt after my eminent fall. I liked it, though, because everyone was happy and nobody was verbally judging me for being terrible at skating,” said Adam Jones, freshman.

Whether you enjoy ice skating or not, Tampa’s Downtown on Ice is a tradition that will hopefully continue to aid in making holiday memories for thousands of people every year.

4 • Features

December 2015

Study hacks help ace midterms Zoe Antinori Staff Artist The countdown to Christmas break is on and that means relaxation, right?

Wrong. Even though it is the holidays, stress levels are through the roof.

With semester exams right around the corner, many students feel the need to be glued to their desks. This is wrong as well. There are many study hacks that students can use to keep their blood pressure down and their grades and spirits up this holiday break.

1. Create a quiet, relaxing atmosphere where it’s easy

to focus and avoid distractions such as friends, family and electronics.

2. Power down phones and all other devices that may grab ones attention.

3. Prioritize the day’s work by creating a To-Do list on a sticky note and color code each assignment or task by importance. Even if a homework To-Do list has already been made, it is best to make another to help organize the day’s schedule.

4. Have an array of snacks at the ready. Healthy snacks are always the best option because they boost energy. Be warned, if an unhealthier option is chosen a sugar high will lead to a sugar crash. Tea is also

a great drink for trying to power through a late night study session, because it’s awesome for refueling and caffeinating.

5. DO NOT PROCRASTINATE. Study each subject for at least ten minutes a day. Cramming is worse for learning because the person commits long term information into the short term memory. This makes forgetting information easier.

6. Type up past notes. By typing up past notes students are able to go over the information while also creating a good study guide that is easy to read and reference when they need to glance back on it later on.

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7. Take breaks. Reward yourself with 15 minute breaks after you finish a 45-90 minute study session. During this break just relax, read a book or talk to family.

8. Create a glossary of words that are hard to understand and write down personal definitions for these words. Make flashcards out of the list later on to help review.

9. Use Khan Academy. This

website is great to use for studying subjects such as math, science, economics and finance and arts and humanities. This site is great for learning specifics and overviewing entire sections and subjects. On Khan Academy, students can even take practice tests and quizzes to see just how prepared they really are.

10. GET SOME SLEEP.

December 2015

5 •Features

Student expresses passion through writing Marissa Sandler Chae Chat Katie Chae Business Editor Marissa Sandler, senior, wrote an original one act

play, entirely performed and directed by students.

SQUAT: A Semi Epic Journey for Truth. is the name of her play.

Q: 1. What is your play about?

A: A: The play is about this young adult who finds out

he’s adopted at his father’s funeral, and he goes to meet his real family. When he gets there he doesn’t realize his parents are out of town and all the people inside are squatters who have to fake that they’re his family to avoid going to jail.

What inspired this play?

Q: 2.

A: I always liked writing when I was a kid. I liked A: writing scripts and when Franke gave me the opportunity [to write the play], I was totally up for it.

How did you feel when you watched your play Q: 2. being performed?

A: I watched the whole process happen and it was A: very stressful because what I wrote could’ve translated really well or really poorly on stage. In the end, when we showed the semi finished product, I was very happy because everyone worked really hard.

Q: 3. What is your favorite theme or element of writA:

ing?

A: I like comedy but more of a dark humor. That’s what I go for when I write.

How do you overcome writer’s block?

Q: 4.

A: I would email my script to Franke and he would A: give me feedback to write some more.

Is there a novel, auQ: 5. thor, or playwright that

A:

inspires you?

A: I really like SNL and comedians like Tina Fey and Amy Poehler, who write and direct their own works.

Where did you get Q:6. most of your ideas

from?

A: A: A lot of it came from talking to Franke and Mary-Olive Gauthier, who helped me at the beginning. The rest came from my head. We tried it out on stage and then had to change some stuff to make it work.

December 2015

6 • 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

Follow us on Pinterest pepoplantnews Follow us on Instagram @pepoplant

School safety still looming in policies Editorial Snickering students and locked doors often sum up the events of lockdown drills performed at various times during the school year. Sass and attempts at witty humor about such drills are voiced by students and teachers alike, questioning the reason for a simulation of protocol. Student safety is not a joke.

Surely an international community of local and national politicians and law enforcement have taken a string of school violence seriously. Administrators and the school board should continue to implement policies that protect students while not infringing on daily lives and their education.

These policies are, sadly, reactive. In many situations, education budgeting depends on what’s being discussed in media or in influential figures. Especially in the Hillsborough County budget, which experienced a budget net decrease of over a

PO’P Zoe Antinori

million dollars, more dollars sent towards new programs and improvements are hard to finalize. But current procedures at school can help protect safety as a whole.

Lockdown procedures are important. Knowing how to act in such an event helps promote

calm and safety when the moment comes when it must occur.

Various lockdowns have occurred throughout the last few years of school, with each running relatively efficiently and smoothly- mainly because of drills that simulate the procedure.

Few students bother reading

the student handbook; even fewer pay any attention to handouts outlining such procedures. So continued drilling will further prepare all on campus for any incident that may arise.

Quickly reminiscing to a few years ago, parents were free to bring in lunch to students in the office, in hallways or even in the parking lot. Opening safety policies outlawed this practice, to the raucous outcry of students who had forgotten theirs- or those craving any number of restaurants located in South Tampa. Outlawing this prevents a constant flow of unaccounted for people into the school.

Each specific policy in of itself was created in an effort to stymie any threats that may arise on campus; and, even if it bothers some students routines or even teacher’s lesson plans, the concrete enforcement of such rules ensures smooth operation of school functions from the early morning walk to first period to the last bell of 8th period. So keep up these policies- and don’t mock them, either.

Materialism takes over Christmas season

Column Rachel Ferreri Features Editor Every year, people start celebrating Christmas earlier and earlier. In the past, people would begin celebrating on or after Black Friday, the Friday after Thanksgiving. However, in recent years, it has become a concept of putting Christmas songs on the radio in late October and decorating shops with décor and lights as early as September. This has led to people only associating Christmas with materialism and presents instead of giving and

kindness.

As Christmastime comes, people love the lights that align every street, the decorations in people’s yards and in stores, and the food associated with Christmas. However, Christmas is meant to be a seasonal time about family and friends and for some people, a time for religious reflection.

Christmas trees are decorated with colorful ornaments, people bake cookies for their friends and for Santa and buy presents for loved ones. Sometimes families carol in their neighborhoods.

But lately, Christmas has been about things. What do you want?

What’s on your Christmas list?

This way of thinking is logical, since gifts are given on Christmas. But in recent years, it seems that the biggest worry in people’s minds is stuff. People worry about what to get their friends and family members.

This materialism hurts the meaning of the holiday. People struggle with what to get people and think about money and savings and deals.

PO’P Zoe Antinori

But, this holiday should be about spending time with family, caroling door to door with friends and doing kind things for other people.

In malls across the world, there is a spot where kids can take a picture with Santa and tell them what they want for Christmas. It is well decorated with Christmas décor. The employees all dress up as elves and they hand out candy

canes to all of the children who go visit Santa. The tradition of going to see Santa at the mall has been going on for a long time but a growing question from this tradition is influencing kids into thinking that Christmas is all about stuff and presents.

This promotion of materialism has taught children a flawed meaning of what is truly important.

7 • Opinions

December 2015

A.P.’s advocate for sleep deprivation Column Darnell Henderson Photographer Certain analogies can be made between students who take several Advanced Placement classes and the titan Atlas. Atlas was a Greek god who was condemned to carry the weight of the heavens; similarly students face the same burden when taking on various A.P.’s.

The persistent pressure to perform past capabilities pushes students to overload on A.P.’s. And with these A.P. saturated schedules comes a heavy consequence: ruined sleep schedules.

‘‘

The persistent pressure to perform past capabilities pushes students to overload on A.P.’s.

Sleep is a vital component to a well being, especially to growing and developing teenagers. Aiding students in recharging and restoring their energy for the day ahead of them, sleep allows a time of recovery from a taxing day.

Though, the necessary amount of sleep needed for teens is 8 to 10 hours, according to the National Sleep Foundation, and with the immense workload that is dispensed from A.P. courses, in addition to the numerous extracurriculars students participate in, A.P.’s ensure that students are not receiving those recommended hours of sleep.

Furthermore this lack of sleep, due to the laborious effort given towards satisfying A.P. classes’ demands, result in many negative outcomes, including: limited ability to learn, listen and concentrate, driving drowsily, aggressive behavior, binge eating, an increase of acne. (National Sleep Foundation) An insufficient amount of sleep can also transpire depression, suicide, and risk taking behavior, states the National Institutes of Health.

Even if students take the opportunity to sleep at an earlier time they are most definitely procrastinating on finishing their homework until the next day or till one of their free periods the next day, where they will put themselves under more work and stress.

Not only do students have to perform adequately and stay above level when it comes to work in A.P’s, students also have to make sure they are doing and keeping up their grades in classes that aren’t A.P.’s.

This can result in even more

PO’P Zoe Antinori

pressure and anxiety as students attempt to satisfy all their classes requirements and deadlines.

In this given dilemma students find themselves in a stalemate; either they take less A.P.’s and let anxiety levels rise as they worry if they will possess the prerequisites, and some, to make it into their dream universities or they can suffer through the unpleasant and tiresome hours of homework, studying, all the while reducing their greatly needed time to recharge. All for the chance that all these sleepless nights will guarantee them a spot into college.

Teachers of these rigorous

college level courses must take students health and schedules into consideration when planning and assigning test, quizzes, and homework. How are students expected to score decently on a test when they are receiving five or less hours of sleep the night prior, because they were not only studying for that one test, but for four other A.P. test?

The strain placed on students when taking A.P.’s causes one to consider the option of taking less of these challenging courses. But this is highly unlikely, students have been ingrained with a need to constantly push themselves in

all school aspects, and they naturally take on the hardships that come with taking these difficult classes.

Regardless of the fact that advanced placement courses diminish students sleep schedules; students will continue to bury themselves in work in order to reach the impossible standards they have been instilled in their heads.

A.P. teachers and students need to find a balance that can please both sides. For A.P.’s, completing the coursework timely and for students, the ability to go to bed at a sensible hour.

“Ew”

“The Lives of the Rich and Famous”

“Oh Jeez”

“The Kronicles of Kyle”

-Logan Franke, freshman

-Tyson Bell, junior

-M.E. Schatzberg, senior

-Kyle Snider, senior

Man on the Street

If your life was a book, what would its title be?

Compiled By: Blair Eustace

8 • Centerspread

December 2015

Winter Wonderland delights elementary kids Gianna Cacciatore Webmaster

Blair Eustace Photographer

Allison Figueroa Centerspread Editor

Winter Wonderland was started by Gina Piloto in 2000 when she was Human Relations Specialist and later became an AP of Curriculum. The event was started mainly to help disadvantaged elementary students have a better holiday season. Susan Gray took her position as HR Specialist in 2003 after Piloto’s promotion. Winter Wonderland was smaller and less popular in it’s first years, but gained notority during under Gray’s supervision The event is usually run by the HR Specialist at the school, but this year there is a slight change. A social science teacher and reading coach are running the show but there won’t be any major changes seen this year.

This year is the 16th annual Winter Wonderland that the school is holding and is the first under new supervision.

“This is my s Wonderland Society. I like t and get excite last year we mentos in too the bottle befo McCumber, se

“I enjoy getting the kids outdoors and giving them a chance to have some fun.

This will be our second year participating in Winter Wonderland and we have almost doubled our targets and upgraded our nerf guns. My favorite part is watching the kids reactions when they hit their first target.

[Last year], the smallest little girl nail the furthest target on her last shot.”

- Mark Gauthier, senior

“I just tried to do what she did. She was in charge of the Student Advisory Committee (SAC) and they started Winter Wonderland inviting some of our feeder Elementary schools. It got bigger and bigger and bigger to where at one point I had 1,600 kids out there [600 children and 1,000 Plant students and faculty]. It’s a really cool concept because the 600 first graders that come, only first graders are invited, are students who will be here in eight years.”

Every club, sport and organization is given a chance to participate in Winter Wonderland either by having a small booth for games or activities or by doing a performance.

“It’s a community event. Everyone knows in the first grade you get to go to Winter Wonderland. There’s a list of what the clubs do and it’s good to do something involved with their club [a child version of their sport or activity]. We’ve always had Santa and it’s always been a good day.”

Gray expressed that though the day is fun, it has been one of the most stressful days of her entire year for the past decade.

“It’s an awesome day and I’m really looking forward to it, especially since I don’t have to run it. Very few things ever go wrong but there is so much that can go wrong.”

“I have done Winter Wonderland with Cross Country before [this is the third year], and each year we have done the same activity which is a obstacle course for the first graders. I am most looking forward to awarding the kids for their efforts in the obstacle course because their smiles get me every time. The idea for an obstacle course has been used for Cross Country for the past few years, and I figured we would carry on the tradition because the kids seem to enjoy it every year, and the candy they win doesn’t hurt either.”

- Laura Jones, junior

“It’s my first e looking forward member of tech terrible robot co Aaron, Preside going to be ther and goodie bags - Korina Hernad

December 2015

9 •Features

second year doing Winter with Science Honor to see the little kids smile ed by science. I remember accidentally dropped the o early and ran away from ore it exploded.” - Alaina enior.

ever doing it. The thing I’m d to the most is having [a h club] dress up in a really ostume and hand out candy. ent of Tech Club, and I are re all day handing out candy s to the little kids.” dez, senior

“This is my first year doing Winter Wonderland with yearbook, but I painted faces with Kiwi sophomore year. I’m looking forward to making all of the kids excited about the holidays because it’s such a happy time! We’re doing face painting this year because it’s something that yearbook has done in the past.”

- Katie Martin, senior

“I love playing for the kids as they arrive because drumline forms a tunnel through which the kids walk, and they are always have such awe on their faces! It’s adorable.

We’ve done it every year that Winter Wonderland has been a thing, so forever!

During Winter Wonderland, we set some of our drums down on the field for the kids to come play on. They’re tentative in approaching initially, but they eventually warm up to us and unleash their first-grader drumming skills. It’s so cute. Who knows, maybe this exposure will plant the seeds for future [female] snare drummers.”

- Gracie Johnson, senior

Jazmina Toledo, Social Science teacher, began working here last year and is already taking on the task of Winter Wonderland coordinator.

Toledo is currently in her Graduate Program at University of South Florida for Education Leadership.

“Mr. Nelson asked me if I was willing to help out with this because it’s a great opportunity to work with the students and teachers at Plant, as well as other schools around us. I assume that Mr. Nelson would expect [Ms. Farino and I] to be doing it for the future and tailor it to what would best suit our needs and other schools’ needs and their recommendations.”

This year the only changes that will come with the event are simple organizational ones so that [the event runs] more smoothly.

“We are really excited and will actually be on the field this year. I think it’s stressful because we are dealing with 600 first graders,” said Toledo.

Toledo insisted that she is keeping Winter Wonderland traditional this year but will make tweaks in the future.

Amy Farino is the new reading coach and this is her first year at Plant. She is taking on Winter Wonderland as part of her internship for her Masters, as well as balancing all her other responsibilities.

“I’m really just looking forward to making sure all 650 first graders, are smiling. That’s my biggest concern. And to make sure they don’t get lost in the school. [I’m hoping that] they are all just smiling and we can get them on the bus at the end of the day.”

Farino has taken charge of organizing what all the clubs are doing, collecting the sign up sheets and making sure everything is in order.

“I’m excited to see all the activities they planned. Every one of the clubs came up with something great. We have face painting, musical chairs, a snowball fight [and] one of the groups is doing something with milk and dye. [Some are] not just fun crafts but something that the kids can actually take a look at. I think it’s actually more science related and just seeing what happens with that.”

10 •Arts and Entertainment

December 2015

Please stop two part madness

Column Bennett Taylor Editor-in-Chief As “The Hunger Games: Mockingjay Part Two” released, the last fumes of the teen dystopian craze winded down to a close, pending the finish of the “Divergent” series. This craze began with “The Hunger Games” and kept up its fire for about five years; I can remember my 8th grade class, decked out in custom Team Peeta or Team Gale shirts, analyzing the first book of the series in English class with passion, and sometimes passive anger.

Ever since “Harry Potter” decided to milk out extra profits by splitting the final book in the series, other film companies have taken this to be a norm.

For the overwhelming majority, this practice of splitting the novel is unnecessary. Too often in “Mockingjay Part Two,” I felt myself staring at a blank scene without music, only hearing a soft munch of popcorn or of my brother whispering to my dad about the current scene.

A “Mockingjay” film would likely be an epic showing of intense action and unique political undertones that the series is known for.

While it may contain extraneous scenes, those moments described in the book, coming alive in the theater, provided a fresh and unique interpretation.

While not at all what I pictured, the visualization of such scenes gave the book a fresh

look at how it could happen.

And Katniss finally deciding on Peeta, while defying my prediction for a Gale/Katniss family, ended a lot of unnecessary drama that the series heavily drew upon in previous installments.

Maybe it’s a current mindset brought upon my literary lenses learned this year in AP Lit, but the political themes of the series popped in this series in particular, with the fall of the supposed wise and honest rebel leader Coin by Katniss herself.

And for our world with huge political implications, seeing this sort of political commentary in the form of a novel complexes and creates a greater appreciation for the novel itself.

MCTCampus

MCTCampus

‘Jessica Jones’ improves upon success of predecessor Matt Blydenburgh Opinions Editor

After the massive success that came from Marvel’s “Daredevil”, the first in a group of shows released through Netflix to later come together in the “Defenders” series, fans were in rabid anticipation of the release of “Jessica Jones”, the second series leading up to the eventual crossover.

This series not only built upon the established universe surrounding these smaller-scale heroes, but also managed to show an even darker side to the superhero genre that, at times, made its predecessor seem more tame by comparison.

Krysten Ritter stars as the titular heroine, a private investigator in the community of Hell’s Kitchen, New York City.

However, Jones was endowed with the ability of super strength after a car accident during a family vacation which killed her parents and younger brother.

What separates Jones from other supers in the Marvel Universe is the fact that her superhero career came to an end before the events of the series take place.

However, after, encountering

the series’ villain, Kilgrave, who has the ability to influence a person’s mind through his speech.

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David Tennant perfectly represents the extremely disturbing nature of this villain,

adding to Netflix’s growing roster of near-perfect Marvel villains that began with Vincent D’Onofrio’s Kingpin.

Much of the dark subject matter of this show stems from Kilgrave’s ruthlessly manipulative and heinous actions against Jones and her associates, not shying away from rape and murder simply because he needs a form of entertainment.

Creator Melissa Rosenberg clearly and accurately displayed the extreme damage that abuse can do to an individual, noting on the feelings of hopelessness and helplessness that his victims all exhibited upon their escape from his enslavement.

Jones’ own Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder was attributed to an eight month period of constant sexual and physical assault by her captor.

“Jessica Jones” offers yet another refreshing look into the comic-book genre that has become so popular today, with standout performances from the entire cast.

Its thorough depiction of real-life atrocities so brilliantly executed by the show’s writers and director add to why this series is one of the best shows streaming online.

Arts and Entertainment • 11

December 2015

Bartaco adds new meaning to Taco Tuesday Sam Werner Circulation Manager Located in the chic area of Hyde Park Village, Bartaco creates a new standard for gourmet Mexican food that will keep taste buds wanting more.

Inspired by the seaside culture of Punte Del Este in South America, Bartaco creates a vibe that mimics this atmosphere. The restaurant features an outdoor patio area and big windows that are left open on cool days.

This completely open design allows for a nice breeze to pass through the restaurant, creating the windy feel of a beach.

Also adding to the coastal ambiance is the food. The menu, somewhat limited has three categories: tacos, rice bowls and not tacos.

The taco category includes fillings from chicken to duck, taking taste buds on a culinary adventure, but the tacos are very small, only lasting for two to three bites. So, if desiring a dinner sized portion, its recommended to order two or three tacos. This gives the

opportunity to try a variety of tacos with different fillings, and receive a dinner sized portion.

The not taco group includes side options like guacamole, chips and salsa, tamale and pretty much everything else a Mexican restaurant is expected to have. The authentic, spicy, fresh Mexican style food is everything expected and more. The quality of the gourmet cuisine was highly impressive, it’s comparable to a five star restaurant along the South American coast.

Following the recent health food craze Bartaco’s menu features many items that are gluten free, and drinks are made with squeezed juice. Menu items are not only healthy but tasty.

The spacious dining area with tasteful decor, a coastal facade and rustic feel create a relaxing atmosphere that keeps the conversation flowing. An efficient restaurant layout keeps volume on the dining floor low for those eating, something unique to the foodie scene.

Bartaco’s ordering system is unlike all other dining options

along Snow Ave. Each table in the restaurant holds a container with cards and pencils. The cards hold a space for the patron’s name, and menu items with boxes next to them. Once deciding on what to order, using the pencil provided check the box next to the item you want, and place the cardboard card into a slot at the end of the table.

A server will then come by and take the card and put in the order.

When needing service throughout the meal there is a separate dragonfly card to place in the slot at the end of the table.

This signals any waiter, possibly a different one than the one who took the order, to come by and take care of anything that is needed. This procedure allows for the wait staff to be more efficient in helping out customers, in turn giving the patrons a better dining experience.

Bartaco is a great eatery option compared to all the other restaurants in the Hyde Park Village culinary scene, leaving you with not only tasty food, but a coastal experience.

PO’P Gianna Cacciatore

12 •Arts and Entertainment

December 2015

Holiday music brightens up Christmas cheer Emilia Difabrizio Copy Editor Christmas is steadily approaching, therefore one can expect to be bombarded with hopeful, cheery holiday songs that can often get on a person’s nerves.

Throughout stores and within all forms of media, the theme of Christmas is inescapable this time of year, however there are multiple holiday albums worthy of a listen.

To get into the holiday spirit, or at the least in order to tolerate obnoxious relatives and tedious parties, there are a plethora of musical options from which to choose.

As taboo as it is to admit, the early Biebs has a great couple of holiday songs like Mistletoe, which dominated radio in 2012.

Other nostalgic pop Christmas songs include Britney Spears’ “My Only Wish (This Year)” and Madonna’s “Santa Baby”.

For the dads and other classic

rock fans, Elvis’ Christmas album is an instant go-to with the “King of Rock’s” flowing melodies and warm instrumentals Neil Diamond takes another original spin, especially with his Christmas album from 1992, aptly titled, The Christmas Album.

Mariah Carey’s album Merry Christmas is another iconic piece by the talented diva herself.

The album plays with R&B and choir-backing as well as upbeat dance drums topped with Carey’s wide range.

90’s boy band fans cannot disregard *NSYNC’s Home for Christmas, after all, who would want to miss young JT’s riffs and the funky beats.

Additionally, Michael Bublé’s Christmas is a renowned album, with Bublé’s fantastic vocals and traditional holiday s o n g s . T h e Tr a n s - S i b e r i a n Orchestra’s classical rock-infused instrumental takes on Christmas

tunes leaves an audience breathless.

Finally, Bing Crosby’s White Christmas is the quintessential Christmas album.

Rock legend David Bowie also joins Crosby with a rendition of “The Little Drummer Boy” from 1977.Holiday song favorites among students include songs by Mariah Carey, junior, Shantorrian Underwood said, “Mariah Carey is supreme because she’s amazing and her voice is on point, and you wouldn’t expect such a powerful voice.” Favorites of sophomore, AJ Labarta include, “Probably all the Elvis Presley soundtracks.

I like a lot of the older singers…

Nothing with wind chimes or any that, I hate that.” Other artists also have holiday themed songs or albums, such as U2, the Killers, and Bruce Springsteen assuring even the most cynical can be in the season’s spirit.

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December 2015

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14 • Sports

December 2015

Two sophomores contribute to dominating team Jacob Robinson Sports Editor Last year, the Plant Panthers hockey team endured a season many would like to forget. They finished with 1 win, 16 losses, and 1 tie. But going into a new year, many players were optimistic on how they would do this time around. They improved by learning under a new coach, Vaclav Prospal, who was an NHL player for many teams, including the Tampa Bay Lightning from 2005-2008, and 2009.

Instantly, Plant started seeing success. They started out the season at 6-2-1, crushing many opponents, matching and exceeding the win total from last year. Sophomores Jacob Grossman (Center) and Sam LaFrance (Left Wing) are two of the many contributors to this new squad. Returning from last year, they looked to new opportunities to do better than last year. “Robbie Barnard and Coach Prospal have helped us structure-wise. Coach also helps whatever team he goes to”, said LaFrance.

The Panthers have turned

the tables since last year, going from being dominated against to dominating opponents. “Shooting the puck well, being physical and using the outside speed, while also maintaining good defensive structure helps us win regardless of the opponent,” said Grossman.

While playing at the Ice Sports Forum in Brandon, Clearwater Ice Arena, and in Oldsmar, the team also faces the pressure of playing at the home of the Tampa Bay Lightning at Amalie Arena.

But the Panthers are 2-0 playing there, with two more games left on the schedule at the Arena.

From now to the end of their high school careers, the two sophomores have big objectives.

For Grossman, it is to win the State Championship, but for LaFrance, it’s to “score a geno, or however many as possible, which is a sick goal.”

What contributes to their success both on and off the ice differs between the two. For Grossman, it’s to “eat a lot of healthy foods, get to the rink an hour early and tape up my stick.”

But for LaFrance, it’s to “zone out unless the coaches are talking and

don’t really talk to anyone else.”

The improved record from last year, makes it apparent that this hockey team is having fun while dominating against opponents.

“My favorite from this year besides my short-handed goal was when Coach would yell at others because it’s something I find very amusing”, said Grossman.

Both sophomores model their game after starts in the NHL, to help improve their play against fellow high schoolers. “I model my play after Lightning Right Winger Ryan Callahan because he’s a little like me and also physical and can score some goals” said Grossman. For LaFrance, he models his game after Lightning Center Brian Boyle.

Doing much better than last year, this team is looking to win big come post-season time. They are also improving the overall image of Plant Hockey.

PO’P Jacob Robinson Top: Players gather around Coach Prospal during a break in the action.

Bottom Left: Grossman braces for the referee to drop the puck in a faceoff.

Bottom Right: LaFrance skates up ice in a game against the Wharton Wildcats.

LaFrance tallied two goals in his team’s winning effort.

Wrestling season begins Pershia Haj Staff Writer

The 2015-2016 Varsity wrestling season is well on its way. Plant wrestlers are in full effect with the hard work they are putting in this season, hoping to have players make it to states. Under the direction of new advisor, Coach Kenney, it is highly possible.

Practices consist of early morning sprinting and two hours after school of more intense training. Placement occurs by weight range, as players must qualify in a specific range to compete on game days. This may be difficult because lots of players have to gain or lose weight each upcoming season.

Varsity players competed in a six-way (six different schools compete with each other) Preseason Classic at Sickles on, Dec. 5. Plenty of skills, such as takedowns and pins, helped us acheive wins against Bloomingdale (51-29) and Plant City (42-27). Sophomore, Jamey Nunamaker totaled 4 pins, 30

team points, and 5 individual wins, being a big help to the team.

“Coach Kenney is definitely better than the previous instructors and knows what he’s doing”, said Junior captain, Jake Kuzmick. “Kenney has high hopes for his players and is excited for this season to unravel.”

When talking about his first home dual with his coaching career at Plant that occurred on Dec. 9, Kenney said, “The student section and the lacrosse players were all fired up. It truly gave us a true home mat advantage.”

Varsity had an astonishing 75-4 win against Chamberlain at home.

Senior captain Anthony Cruz Munoz has reeled in a total of 44 match points this season and 10 takedowns, taking the lead.

“Although it is an individual sport, it’s cool because the team aspect of wrestling is more important. We all support each other and help improve one another’s skills,” said Munoz.

The upcoming match on Jan. 7 will against Tampa Bay Tech at home.

Wrestling terminology To fully understand what’s going on during a match, it is best to understand some of the terms spoken by coaches to players while wrestling: Double leg- player grabs opponent’s legs (like a tackle in football) Single leg- players grabs opponent’s one leg Stand up- player quickly stands up after falling Wing- player makes opponent’s arm look like a chicken wing Shot- go for a takedown, lunge and grab the opponent’s legs Pin- get the opponent onto their back and the match is over Sprawl- when an opponent is shooting, the player must perform a sprawl to avoid the shoot

PO’P Darnell Henderson

Sophomore Curry Guyton practices his technique against fellow Sophomore Alex Hills.

15 • Sports

December 2015

Bottom Line Is... Disappointing end to dominating career

Column Jacob Robinson Sports Editor

Unfortunately, one of the greatest NBA players if not the greatest of all time is seeing an ugly end to a flourishing career.

Kobe Bryant has seen better days in his 20-year career for the Los Angeles Lakers.

A five time NBA Champion, Bryant can boast he won an MVP award, was a two time Finals MVP, was a 17-time All-Star, and even is the Lakers all time leading scorer, over the likes of Magic Johnson and others.

Kobe is, without a doubt, a top 5 NBA player of all-time, and to see him retire after the end of this year, is a tragedy

felt by many NBA fans worldwide. Plagued by injuries from his shoulder to his achilles, Bryant must have known it was time to pass the ball on to the future players of the Lakers.

To blame others for what has happened to the Los Angeles Lakers is needed, but that doesn’t mean that the blame isn’t any of Kobe’s.

For starters, we look to behind the scenes of the organization, to General Manager Mitch Kupchak, and to the Buss family. After Jerry Buss’ passing back in 2013, he made it clear in his succession plan that his daughter Jeanie would assume his previous title as the Lakers’ governor as well as its team representative at NBA Board of Governors meetings.

However, Jeanie’s brother, Jim Buss, eventually took over for basketball operations. Letting him take over was a huge mistake on Jeanie’s part, and is the reason the Lakers are in the state that they are in right now.

Buss didn’t consult Kobe before hiring back then coach Mike Brown. He let go of nearly two dozen employees from the basketball operations staff back in 2011, including Assistant General Manager Ronnie Lester. He never had a real relationship with Coach Phil Jackson, who brought the Lakers 5 NBA

Championships. All of this is concerning, and the Lakers having consecutive losing seasons with this current season looking nothing short of one, Jim Buss has ruined this franchise and organization, and it needs to be fixed quickly.

The other fifty percent of the blame goes to GM Mitch Kupchak. And it’s easy to tell why. He let Dwight Howard leave free agency to join the Houston Rockets in 2013. He traded away Shaquille O’Neal to the Miami Heat in 2004. He didn’t trade a young Andrew Bynum for Jason Kidd when he had the opportunity to. The list goes on.

But for the last few years, Kupchak begins to make mistakes that permanently left a scar on the face of the organization.

The mistakes he made in the early years didn’t matter, because Kobe was still in his prime and won 2 rings to go with it, with one being against the likes of my Boston Celtics. And don’t get me wrong, Kupchak has made some great moves, like trading Pau Gasol for Kwame Brown and others.

Kwame Brown. I repeat, Kwame Brown.

Although, this time around, Kobe can’t deliver championships. He let Pau Gasol and Dwight Howard walk in free agency. He hired Head Coach Byron Scott, who can’t coach young players. He coaches better when it’s with veterans.

The 2012 NBA Draft was horrendous, when they were dealt no picks in the first round and the last pick of the last round which they spent on current Laker Robert Sacre. They passed up on Kent Bazemore, who went undrafted, and is having a solid NBA career so far. Today, even though the starting 5 of the Lakers is one that is quite solid, the bench is horrendous. Guys like Tarik Black, Marcelo Huertas, and Ryan Kelly have no place at Staples Center.

Metta World Peace shouldn’t have been given the contract that he was given.

Yes, some blame is rightfully shown towards Kobe Bryant. He takes way too many shots nightly. At this point in his career, he needs to stop believing he can drop 35 points a night. Because he needs to be a mentor to younger Laker players. There might be a future for him in coaching. However, one of the greatest NBA players of all time is seeing an ugly end to a dominant career. It’s his fault. It’s Jim Buss’ fault. It’s Mitch Kupchak’s fault.

But regardless of who gets what blame, we just witnessed the career of arguably the greatest player of all-time, and definitely the greatest athlete of this generation.

Thank you, Kobe Bryant, and happy retirement.

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December 2015