The leading print and online news source for all things Leon since 1931 The Leon High Life Vol. XCV Issue 3 leonhighlife.com Nov. 2014 A world champion baton twirler PAWS changes to for a math teacher increase Maribeth McClenny no one would walk by my involve- Online Editor classroom.” Currently, the video, which First-year math teacher was shot at halftime of the Oct. Karrissa Wimberley may not be ment 18 FSU-Notre Dame football well known around Leon, but game, is at 711,000 views. she is well known around the Julia Chodyla It received such national world. News Editor acclaim that ABC news received In addition to winning 24 Wimberley’s permission to air it world championship baton Due to the fact that the PAWS and it has since been featured on twirling titles, Wimberley is performances in past years have Good Morning America, MTV, the Florida State University been very lengthy, the perform- The Huffington Post, Buzzfeed Auxiliary coach, and ing arts teachers have decided to and Total Frat Move, among choreographs the marching make things run more efficiently many others. band’s halftime shows, one of and cut the number of acts. Wimberley had to teach which recently received half PAWS is a showcase of the the choreography to about a million YouTube views in a performing arts group at Leon. 500 members of the Marching week. These include steel, band, choir, Chiefs. She taught the “I started choreographing drama, dance and orchestra. choreography two weeks before the dance in my classroom PAWS will take place on Dec. the game so that everyone would after seventh period,” said 12-13. be confident in the movements. Wimberley of the Beyoncé “The downside to having Wimberley started baton tribute routine which was such a wonderful performing twirling when she was six and performed during halftime of arts program is that you want has been doing it for 22 years. the FSU-Notre Dame game. to show everyone off,” Prin- Her mother was a twirler, “I was watching Beyoncé’s cipal Billy Epting said. “This which pushed Wimberley to get Single Ladies music video and becomes a problem when the into twirling. Wimberley and trying to imitate some of the Athens Banner-Herald show’s length goes beyond two and a half hours.” choreography, while hoping Karrissa Wimberly is pictured twirling for the University of Georgia. SEE WIMBERLY, PAGE 8 In order to participate in PAWS, one must be part of Leon’s performing arts groups. Testing requirements Technology Each teacher has a spot or two in the show. Therefore, teach- ers chose who they think could change again updates at Leon wow the audience the most as TVs are smaller than a a group and give the most well computer, in contrast will be a new test Paulette Jordan Julia Chodyla Writer Promethean Board and rounded view of that art. News Editor to the ACT and SAT released in 2016 that make slide shows difficult According to steel drum di- which are written tests. will be more like the High definition to view. English teacher rector Mike Wendeln, the num- This year, the Florida The purpose of ACT. According to televisions, provided Pam Garrett said it’s like ber of acts have been reduced Department of Education the test is to see if all the College Board, by the district, are now “the cart before the horse” to only the best of the best from has reestablished new public school students the questions will be installed at Leon. and “isn’t beneficial at each department. Unfortunately, regulations for students, are progressing and an assessment about The televisions, which the moment” without the that means less students will be requiring all juniors to learning. It is also to applying real-world are $1,000 each, replaced iPads. able to participate in the show. take a standardized test. see which schools contexts. The current teachers’ data projectors. The TVs do not The tech crew of the show There is no longer a need special aid. The SAT penalizes one- When a bulb in a data tilt and are up so high has a systematic plan of order- Florida Comprehension students will get a quarter of a point for projector goes out, the that students can’t read ing the acts so that the scenes Assessment Test. grade. However, it each wrong answer price to replace them can PowerPoint slides and needing the most chairs and The new test that all will not affect their that is bubbled in. The be between $500 and can’t see them clearly. props go first. freshman, sophomores graduation and GPA in new SAT will have no $800. Now that her class has The transitions ought to be and now juniors will any way. penalty for incorrect The benefits of having had such difficulty with smoother considering that props take next March is There are fears that answers. Both the SAT the televisions are that the TVs, Garrett is back to or scenery will only be taken called Florida Standards students may not put in and ACT provide an they are expected to last using the projector screen. away and will rarely have to be Assessment. This new as much effort because essay portion to judge a at least 10 years and will The dilemma is the added or changed entirely. test came along in the they are aware that the student’s writing skills. save money overtime. result of teachers not “I think PAWS is one of package of switching to test cannot hurt them However, like the ACT, Leon will eventually getting training yet and the coolest things we do as a Common Core. personally. According the new SAT will begin receive 40-45 of them this not receiving iPads. school,” assistant principal Sar- FSA’s sections to Principal Billy making that an optional year. Leon and Lincoln IPads will come in ah Hembree said. are the following: Epting, this concerns part of the test. Students are the only schools in during Christmas break “Almost half of Leon will mathematics, writing, teachers greatly will still take it if their Leon County to have high and teachers will get be participating in the perfor- reading, listening and because the school desired colleges require definition televisions. training with the iPads in mance in some way, whether it language. There is an grade could drop the score. While many students January. is by being in the performing extended response because of this. The Almost all colleges are enthusiastic about the Principal Billy Epting arts groups or the technician question, as well. The SAT is also undergoing accept both SAT and televisions, teachers are says the transition period staff. This doesn’t even include whole test is taken on a many changes. There adjusting to them. The SEE TESTING, PAGE 4 is only natural. the audience.” 2 Nov. 2014 Opinion The Leon High Life

UPCOMING EVENTS PERFORMING ARTS WINTER SHOW- Tackling a culture of CASE Dec. 12 and 13, 7:00 p.m.

7TH PERIOD EXAM Dec. 16 (1:55-3:30) apathetic wastefulness

ST ND 1 AND 2 PERIOD EXAMS starving to death. Though I hope we all can agree Dec. 17 Muireall Brown Editorial Editor Frankly, the implications of these that this situation is an abysmal one, RD TH numbers disgust me beyond articulation: that our horrific attitude toward the 3 AND 4 PERIOD EXAMS As Americans, we, on the whole, Dec. 18 that we stand by carelessly and revel in underprivileged and our destructive have a long and proud history of our excess as millions suffer from literal throw-away habits will—one desperately TH TH 5 AND 6 PERIOD EXAMS demonstrating our insuperable degree of starvation. hopes—one day face the harshest Dec. 19 apathy and ignorance toward the plight Ultimately, what these numbers tell possible judgement of future generations, and suffering of those who, you know, us is that wastefulness—not to mention that’s not to say that there isn’t hope. LAST DAY OF THE SEMESTER aren’t white people that happened to Dec. 19 apathy and selfishness—has our culture Those of you reading this who are be born within the largely arbitrarily firmly in its odious, vice-like grip, blessed enough to have inherited—or drawn and collectively imagined borders and it is directly contributing to death created—comfortable, even luxurious LETTERS TO THE commonly referred to as “America.” and suffering at home and abroad. lives are all completely capable of Despite the many protesting cries And our lack of action, of desire to doing your part to alleviate the heart EDITORS that meet this assertion—our surety that alleviate suffering, is nothing short of wrenchingly widespread condition of we are a moral paragon to be looked reprehensible. poverty. DEAR EDITOR, upon in awe by the world at large—we The fact that Americans suffer from Instead of buying that extra bag of I’m a holiday geek, the kind that will have demonstrated this complete lack of the throw-away mentality of a consumer food that you know you’re probably not proudly wear my Christmas sweaters in empathy time and time again: from the culture is undeniable. Beyond the waste going to eat, donate it to a charitable public and cover my yard in neon lights. thousands of preventable hunger related of food—something that causes a organization like Second Harvest, Leon’s But when October is hardly over and deaths that occur daily to our disregard visceral twinge in my gut every time I canned food drive, ECHO, or even one of there are candy canes for sale at Publix, for the lost lives of non-American witness it (which happens quite often in the various and ubiquitous church-based I start to get mad. People are forcing the civilians in foreign conflicts. the halls of Leon: which is unfortunate, food pantries and diners that provide winter holidays farther and farther back With our lack of motivation to because who knows if a person who is nourishment to the underprivileged. (As on the calendar, and this year is the worst end much of this suffering abroad— suffering from hunger—and yes, there an aside, I would recommend staying case I have seen yet. something that is completely within our are people at your high school who away from the Salvation Army, as it is Now, one would expect Leon to be a power to do—one would think that of all are—witnessed you throw away half of a extremely discriminatory toward the gay sort of haven from this premature holi- the empathy we are lacking for our fellow perfectly good sandwich in a distasteful community, and there are plenty of other day madness. In a public school system man internationally, an astronomical display of privilege) we seem to be non-discriminatory charities that provide where the beliefs of all students must be amount must be turned inward, to almost deliberately intent on wasting as just as much, if not more, relief.) respected, religious celebrations—like domestic affairs and to the struggles of much as we can. Instead of paying, for instance, an Christmas—are usually taboo. So imag- our fellow human being who happen to For instance, we, as a collective exorbitant $10 for a late night movie, see ine my surprise when I walked into sev- have been born in the United States. nation, throw away 80 percent of our that matinee and donate the difference enth period the weekend after Halloween Right? recyclable materials. How anyone could to a charity of your choice. Give some to the sound of “Jingle Bells.” Picture Unfortunately, this notion appears witness that statistic with an emotion other chocolate bars to a panhandler— my horror as commercials for holiday so incorrect as to be laughable—or, it than rage and extreme disappointment is seriously, it’s not hard and it’s more shopping played on repeat during a video would be, if its inaccuracy weren’t so beyond me: I imagine that it requires a appreciated than you probably know. in class. The “Christmas Creep” has in- completely and utterly depressing. certain willful disconnect from reality. If you want to go even further on filtrated our school! I thought the walls Let me paint you a numerical People: it’s not even hard. Even on your quest to tackle the roots of poverty of Leon could block out the holly-jolly picture: Leon’s campus, practically everywhere and alleviate suffering one human at storm, but I was wrong; Christmas is Approximately 44.85 million people you turn a recycling bin lies open and a time, consider donating to Heifer coming early, whether I like it or not. in the United States are at or below the ready to accept the gift of your reusable International or giving a small loan to an Hannah Wong poverty line. According to Feeding resources. So why do I see hard plastic in entrepreneur or farmer in a developing America, within this group of people the trash every single day? Why do I see country via KIVA—most of which are DEAR EDITOR, can be found the estimated 20 percent of paper lying in a trash can that is literally paid back in full. Become an activist for During the end of each semester 80 or children living in the United States that two inches away from a recycling bin? more comprehensive policies regarding more questions are given to students by are food insecure, meaning that they have It’s insane! It’s senseless! poverty in the United States. 6 classes. This [can] be very stressful or no certain source of food, that hunger is And it ties back into the fact that we You could even just play Free Rice overwhelming to students…I think that an ever-present possibility, if not an overt must not fully understand the implications and provide food to people in need across final exams should not exist in school. reality. of our actions: really, the fact that we even the globe via the World Food Programme. Instead of final exams there should be an Meanwhile, according to the U.S. think it’s possible to “throw something All these things can—and should— option to take an alternative test to bring Department of Agriculture, Americans as away,” as if it disappears never to affect be done during the upcoming Holidays, your grade up. a whole purchase approximately 315.37 us again speaks volumes about how the “Season of Generosity,” as it were. Another alternative could be mak- million tons of food annually. However, disconnected we are from reality. However, after the Winter Holiday ing up missing assignments for half the the National Resources Defense Council All of these things: our apathy toward fervor has died down there’s no reason to original credit. This would help students reports that 25 percent of that is thrown the poor, our willingness to waste, our stop practicing generosity and kindness: make wise decisions while helping their away (and not even composted): by my very economic policies, coalesce to people suffer year round and every one grade. calculation, that’s 63.1 million tons of produce the crisis, discord, and strife of us always has the power to make a Tai-Shaun Burgess food, enough to immediately solve the that are readily apparent if one is simply difference. global hunger crisis: wasted. Thrown out willing to remove the counterproductive Compassion need not be confined to while people on this planet are literally rose colored glasses of privilege. one month-and-a-half long season. The High Life Staff The High Life

Editors-in-Chief: Rachel Joyner, John Ike Smith- Page Nine Editor: Will Rasmussen The High Life is the official student newspaper of Leon High School. The Schoenwalder Page Ten Editor: Hannah Rodriguez newspaper staff controls all aspects of content and design. Kevin Record, the Page One Editor: Julia Chodyla Page Eleven Editor: Traci Creel journalism teacher and adviser, provides guidance, supervision and assistance. Page Two Editor: Muireall Brown Online Editors: Maribeth McClenny, Emilee Bickel The publication does not intentionally publish material that is libelous, ob- Page Three Editor: Caroline Zapert Business Manager: Traci Creel scene or that may cause a substantial and material disruption of school activities. Page Four Editor: Lauren Henderson Photo Editors: Hadley Richter, Paulette Jordan Questions and comments: Page Five Editors: Michaela Westmoreland Staff Writers: Chloe Patterson, Derek Bell, Logan [email protected] Page Six, Seven Editors: Sella Kinch, Michael Ma- McLanahan 550 E. Tennessee St., Tallahassee, FL 32308 nias Artist: Stevenson Johnson Phone 488-1971 ext. 2630 Fax 922-5311 Page Eight Editor: EmmaLea Reed Adviser: Kevin Record www.leon.leon.k12.fl.us The Leon High Life Opinion Nov. 2014 3 Insensitive humor: An epidemic in itself

Offensive humor seems to be more contagious than the disease Caroline Zapert Editorial Editor The unprecedented outbreak of the Ebola virus has taken the lives of over 5,000 people in the past nine months alone. Those who are not well-informed on what the Ebola virus actually is, are usually the people who are responsible for the offensive jokes. That being said, under no circum- stances does this give those who are not personally affected by the virus the DANIEL BEREHULAK / Redux entitlement to crack jokes about those who are. of central Africa, the virus can spread social media pertaining to the boundless board to explain her absence to her According to the World Health Or- more quickly than the locals realize. “Ebola jokes.” students. It read, “Sorry I had to leave ganization, Ebola is a virus that causes This is no laughing matter. And it's not just the failed attempts early, I’m sick. Good thing it’s not an acute, serious illness which is often Foreign help at dark com- Ebola!” fatal if untreated. Symptoms and other from medical staff edy. Remarks like To someone oblivious to the dev- inevitable health issues that the victims with extensive “Sorry I had to chanting "Ebola!" astating reality of what Ebola does to of Ebola endure include fever, fatigue, knowledge on when someone people, the note left on the board would muscle pain and vomiting. disease control leave early, I’m coughs play a not have been given a second glance. This is followed by symptoms of never enter a high- major role in the If “good thing it’s not cancer” impaired kidney and liver function, and risk area without sick. Good thing diffusion of the had been written instead, the students sometimes both internal and external wearing a hazmat word into everyday would have produced quite a different bleeding. suit and dousing vernacular. response. Some even go so far to argue The more internal malfunctions are the premises with it is not Ebola!” Out of the mil- that Ebola is not a real disease. As stated low white blood cell and platelet counts chlorine. lions of responses by an anonymous thread online, Ebola and elevated liver enzymes. Ebola gained its global recognition possible for when someone will “be brought to the United States Comparable to any terminal illness, when the two outbreaks in 1976 struck sniffles a little, asking if that person has through the southern border because Ebola claims the lives of between 25 Central Africa. Ebola should not be one of them. President Obama hates America.” and 90 percent of its victims, depending Although I am not at risk for coming Inconsiderate high school students I wish I was joking. on where the patient is being treated. into contact with the virus, nor are our are not even the greatest contributor to Ebola is not a tool developed by the In less developed areas, especially bordering counties, and even the entire Ebola jokes. government in an effort to exterminate those in the densely populated regions state, I see more and more posts on A Leon teacher left a note on her the human race.

Traci Creel group of kids or individual were freedom of speech, any form the flag as representation of the think that it would be right be- Writer to be offensive then we [the ad- of speech, symbolic or verbal, South as a country during the cause that’s like someone say- ministration] could go and tell can be “prohibited” if it has the Civil War.” ing I can’t be proud of where I Everyone is granted rights, them that it is not acceptable on potential to cause an outburst of This flag was commonly was born and raised.” but do some Canof these rights getthe campus.” confederateviolence or disruption. flag flownbe during inoffensive? the Civil War era In Northern states, many shut down once we enter certain When looking more at the “There have been no com- by the Confederate states to schools made their students facilities? situation it is more of a freedom plaints by the students or neigh- show that they wanted to with- believe that the Civil War was For example, senior Hunter of speech ideal than anything bors,” Epting said. “However, a draw from the Union. between the northerners, which Bratcher flies a confederate flag else. few parents have mentioned it, When looking at the details were the good people and the from the back of his truck every I personally do not believe but most of the complaints are of this flag, there are 13 stars southerners, who were bad. day. that anyone, whether it be stu- about the loud music and the which lie in what appears to be Columnist for The Pendu- There is no regulation set by dents, parents or staff members, revving of their trucks.” an X. This layout was to help lum, Elon University’s newspa- the Leon County School Board would have a problem with Bratcher believes that the the southern states basically say per, Jason Pressberg stated that that states this is prohibited. this if someone were flying the flag symbolizes a “way of life” “mark us out of your Union” to in New York where he grew up “It really is not a big deal as American flag each and every through “Southern heritage.” the North. that the education system taught long as it [the flag] does not start day. “I don’t see why a person “I would be highly offended him that “the Confederate flag any problems,” Principal Billy In the Constitution itself, would take [the flag] as offen- if someone asked me to get rid was and is an evil symbol of Epting said. “If actions by this it states that when it comes to sive,” Bratcher said. “I view of it,” Bratcher said. “I don’t hate.”

Write a Letter to the Editor. Have an opinion? Get it in the paper. Bring letters to Room IA4 or write to us online at www.leonhighlife.com 4 Nov. 2014 News The Leon High Life Leon’s Elite spreads love of reading It is starting to become more “cool” Students are to read. The club is now in its third school year of existence. It is available only to getting ‘hooked’ freshmen and sophomores who do not have a high interest in reading. on reading This year, they will be reading six books, including Running for My Life, literature Divergent, Unsouled and Miss Pere- Lauren Henderson grine’s Home for Peculiar Children: The News Editor Graphic Novel. To get book suggestions, a facul- Sophomore Kyla Brown did not en- ty-wide e-mail is sent out. They target joy reading until she joined Leon’s Elite, books that are engaging and intriguing a lunchtime book club targeted for stu- that the readers will be passionate about. dents who wouldn’t ordinarily embrace To draw students in, a video is presented literature. that briefly addresses the books and dis- “I definitely read more books now,” cusses the club. Brown said. “I saw the movie The Help There are roughly 25 spots available and didn’t think about reading it until in the club. Students take a survey and last summer, (after she had joined Leon’s check which books they are interested in Elite) and I really enjoyed it.” and why they would like to be in Leon’s Brown’s favorite book she has read Elite. Lauren Henderson so far is Unwind. It is a genre Brown is Sarah Harris and the Elite Eight pose with their books. The club meets at lunch in English not used to and it made her think from a teacher Stephanie Toliver’s room, IA4. different point of view. Running for My Life. It is written by Don not like to read during class because she Lunch and drinks are served and the club Sophomore Anthony Copeland- Yaeger and former Florida State All- was afraid she would stumble over her reads as a group, led by a teacher. The Chandler is also a part of Leon’s Elite. American running back Warrick Dunn. words. But, after reading aloud during teachers will facilitate the students’ dis- He heard about it from a friend and asked Dunn narrates the book, telling the story their meetings, she feels more comfort- cussion of the text and pose questions for his teacher about the club. of meeting his mother’s killer. Yaeger able and does not mind reading out loud. further analysis and thought. “I watched (the Elite Club) video on- currently lives in Tallahassee and the stu- The students are more likely to be One book is read each week and dif- line and I thought it would be cool to be dents may get a chance to meet him and engaged in reading in this club because ferent students are picked for each week in a book club at Leon,” Copeland-Chan- Dunn, who regularly visits Tallahassee they do not have the pressure of a test according to what books they are most dler said. “It really caught my attention from Tampa. or quiz. interested in. when I saw that there was free lunch and “The book really caught my atten- In fact, English teacher Sarah Harris, “One of the biggest benefits is that we would be reading a book about foot- tion,” Brown said. “[Dunn] poured his who wrote a grant for the club in 2011, I get to know so many of the students,” ball.” heart out.” believes Leon’s Elite is change the cul- Harris said. “I get to form a positive stu- Recently, the club read a true story, Prior to joining the club, Brown did ture of reading at school. dent-teacher bond with them.”

TESTING Orchestra collaborates with FSU FROM PAGE 1 they were both heavily influ- Dr. Shannon Thomas, Visiting ACT scores. As of right the whole state of Florida. A Leon allowed to enced musically by their partici- Assistant Professor of Violin at now, the tests are similar in new test will be added into the be part of Cham- pation in string chamber music FSU, was the first guest teacher. the fact that they have reading curriculum called an End of programs. The program is free of and math assessments. The Year exam that is made for any ber Music Pro- “We decided that building charge and open to any inter- ACT also has an English and other core course that is required gram such a program at Leon High ested orchestra students. science section incorporated. for graduation. Each district can School would be a wonderful There is no conductor dur- The ACT tests each subject in make its own EOY. opportunity for the string play- one sitting, as opposed to the It is uncertain if EOYs will Lauren Henderson ing the performance, so the stu- ers,” Bugaj said, “and the pre- SAT which scatters the subject be up for exemption at the end News Editor dents have to listen to each other service music educators at FSU and perform on their own. areas. of the second semester. Leon students are now af- who coach the ensembles with “Participating in chamber According to assistant Very recently, the grades forded the unique opportunity input from Mr. Thayer and me.” music can provide some of the principal Sarah Hembree, it of the final assessment go of being in the Chamber Music Bugaj’s role in the program most exhilarating musical ex- is wise for students to take into teachers’ evaluations. Program, which involves the is to train and guide the teach- periences to a musician,” Bugaj both tests sometime at the end Therefore, teachers are hesitant expertise of Florida State Uni- ers and coaches who come from said. “The fact that four people of junior year and evaluate to let students exempt finals versity’s College of Music. FSU. can be playing completely dif- which one gives them a better considering that most of their Growing up in Columbus, There are four groups made ferent parts and have them all fit score. She then recommends best achieving students’ grades Ohio, Leon orchestra director up of musicians with similar ex- perfectly and create this beauti- practicing and studying even would not be factored into the John Thayer was a part of a pro- perience levels. Every semester ful and powerful wall of sound more over the summer, then teacher evaluation. gram similar to “Chamber.” these groups can change and is astounding.” retaking one of the tests in the Hembree wants to make “That organization was the new people can come in and join Chamber had its first concert fall of senior year. sure that all Leon students know best way for me to improve as a Chamber. Nov. 22 and each group per- “You have to realize that how semestral grades work. musician,” Thayer said. Performing string players formed for five to 10 minutes. there is a such a thing as “I understand that everyone Hence, it gave him the vi- who are majoring in music edu- Sophomore Faith Bruner internal reliability,” Hembree can have a bad semester,” sion to make Chamber available cation at FSU come in and each could not be in orchestra class said. “This term basically Hembree said. “One year is at Leon. have a group to “coach,” while this year because of a full means that each SAT from a little harder to keep a good “It is a very rare program,” Thayer oversees the whole pro- schedule, but being a member of every year correlates to the last GPA. However, two years is Thayer said. “There are very gram. This gives the Leon stu- Chamber gives her the opportu- one and you can learn the tricks impossible to maintain a high few in the country. dents experienced teachers to nity to practice playing cello. that can boost your score.” GPA. “There are virtually no learn from and the FSU students Bruner is in a quintet with The Leon County “I don’t expect everyone to schools that have a program like teaching experience. two violinists, one viola player, School Board has agreed on think about their future. It’s okay this.” The students also have mas- one bass player. maintaining End of Course if you don’t,” Hembree said. Thayer was speaking with ter classes, which is when each “I really enjoy being able to exams for Algebra one and “But when you slack off, you Dr. Kasia Bugaj, an assistant group performs in front of a mu- be in Chamber,” Bruner said. “It two, Geometry, Biology one, close doors on opportunities, professor in the FSU string mu- sic teacher from FSU and is cri- is a lot different than orchestra Civics and U.S. History. These and you want to leave as many sic program, and they realized tiqued and taught by the guest. and it is a great experience.” tests are the same throughout doors open.” The Leon High Life Features Nov. 2014 5 Mitchell follows suit with singing I made it through,” Mitchell Leon’s theater productions of Senior con- said. Les Misérables, Sweeney Todd “At this point it’s in my and Once on This Island. tinues sib- routine to make sure everything “My dream is to perform,” that needs to be done is done.” Mitchell said. “I think it would lings’ sing- Mitchell is a part of the be cool to get my own music Leon thespians, Melodears out there.” and Mane Event, all of which, Juliana Coughlin has heard ing tradition Mitchell says, take up at least Mitchell sing plenty of times five hours each week. including during the Leon pro- at Leon Mitchell takes Melodears duction Les Misérables and at as a class every week day and Rocktoberfest. Michaela Wesmoreland participates in vocal practices “She has a very warm and Features Editor for Mane Event every Thursday soulful voice,” Coughlin said. for two hours. “She’s very passionate about With two older sisters who Friend Max Marshall at- what she does, even if it isn’t both went to Leon and were a tended the same middle school singing.” part of Mane Event, it is only as Mitchell and believes that, Marshall also believes that, natural for senior Angelina since freshman year, she has whether it’s hanging out with Mitchell to follow in their only gotten better. friends or singing in school, footsteps. Marshall says that, if any- Mitchell is passionate about the Mitchell’s mother lives thing, she has grown immense- things she does. in Washington D.C. and her ly as a vocalist and performer. According to Coughlin, father lives in Coco Beach. Mane Event is a pop a Ca- Mitchell is also passionate in In order to graduate from pella group that Marshall and her art, and is so good that she Leon, she opted to live with Mitchell auditioned for during designed the 2014 Mane Event her oldest sister, Katalina. their freshmen year and have binder covers. Mitchell talks often with been singing in ever since. “People will tell you that her parents, but says it’s hard “She has a very emotional you can’t do it or that the odds not having them home, or voice that’s enveloping and are against you, but that just helping her apply to colleges contagious,” Marshall said. motivates me to prove them or remembering simple things “Her personality definitely wrong,” Mitchell said. Ryker Laramore she needs to do. shows when she’s singing.” “Music helped me through Angelina Mitchell performed at Rocktoberfest this year. She believes that what she Furthermore, Mitchell plays everything in life; it actually is doing is what her first year guitar and violin. heals. Mitchell has applied to the applying to three other univer- of college would feel like. During the 2014 Rocktober- “I’m very interested in University of Central Florida sities, including the University “I’m very independent, fest, Mitchell sang three songs. pursuing music therapy as a and Colorado State University. of Memphis, which is her first and living without my parents She was also featured in career.” She is in the process of choice. definitely was a transition, but

“She was always drawing in Even pugs middle school,” said her good friend, sophomore Savannah inspire Lammert. “She would even draw me Sutherlandsophomore to draws up dream of beingthings an in fourth artist grade that were better than anything I could draw make the world now.” Maati KcKinney, who has her canvas been friends with Sutherland since they were in fifth grade, says that Michaela Westmoreland Sutherland gets a lot of inspiration Features Editor from her pug, named Fritz, and that she draws pictures of pugs all the Leon sophomore Madison time. Sutherland can catch anyone’s eye “She’s a really chill person and with a glimpse of her art. fun to hang out with,” McKinney Sutherland has been a part of said. “But if you ever see her, multiple art competitions, including you’ll definitely see her drawing one at the state capitol during eighth something.” grade, when she placed first with a Sutherland uses every dragon painting. opportunity to practice and expand Her art has been displayed in the her name. capitol and at a few art shows around She is also able to make use of the Tallahassee area. a unique opportunity because her Sutherland has sold many father is a carpenter. different art pieces that were priced Sutherland’s father builds anywhere from $2 to $200. corn-hole games, which is a game “Her art has a whimsical feel to in which hacky-sacks are thrown it,” said Madeline Westcott, a friend into holes. It is usually played at of Sutherland’s. Madison Sutherland fairs or festivals. “It definitely has that surrealistic Sutherland does all the painting touch.” life since she can remember. Her skill has only Sutherland wants to follow her dream of to design each custom corn-hole Art has been a part of Sutherland’s improved as she has practiced over the years. being an artist and will do anything to get there. game. 6 Nov. 2014 The Leon High Life The Leon High Life Nov. 2014 7 Hunger: no game for Leon Leon County fighting against hunger A look large and exhaustive event. Hembree Stewart says it is a challenge to get on the food drive, in getting kids to Michael Manias said it would be overwhelming to try cans in the spring because there is less bring cans,” Stewart said. A look into various companies in Leon Country as they struggle into ‘Let’s Features Editor to undertake two big drives in one se- participation than during the holiday Stewart also said teachers used to to help those who are hungry in our community Leon High School’s annual food mester. season. During the holiday season peo- offer extra credit for kids who brought Bag It On’ Leon used to have its cancer fun- ple are generally in a more giving spirit in food cans, but since the adminis- drive used to be called “Can the “Every person touches draiser and canned food drive in the than they are around spring time. tration has banned that because they Sella Kinch Caroline Kirk Principal,” but it kind of got out of me,” she said. “I can’t even Guest Writer same semester. But, the canned food Nevertheless, Stewart was pleas- thought teachers should not give aca- Features Editor hand. fathom not having a home drive has been pushed back to the antly surprised with how successful demic credit for non-academic rea- The students collected so many As the holiday season gets to go to.” This year I have created spring for the last four years. the “Can the Lion” food drive was last sons, teachers resorted to using other cans, the principal could not even closer and closer, the tendrils of Shockingly, there is the “Homelessness: Let’s Bag According to SGA member Emma spring, when students collected be- alternative incentives to persuade stu- get into his office. fattening, sickly sweet and deli- an estimated 188 people It” project. In middle school at McCoy, the canned food drive will be tween 2,000 and 3,000 cans. dents to bring cans; such as the teacher So, now the students simply cious feasts begin to conjugate in Leon County who sleep Trinity Catholic, I began vis- held in spring once again. Stewart said charity drives allowing the students to have a class strive to “Can the Lion.” in the minds of most Ameri- outside, with no shelter to iting the Homeless Shelter in SGA teacher at school are the most success- party if a class goal is met for bringing Instead of placing food cans cans. Ingredients and recipes go to. Tallahassee with my Student Josh ful when the faculty takes in- in cans. in the principal’s office, they are start to appear in grocery stores. Publix supermarkets Council. terest in it and then promotes Leon High School has received stacked around the Lion statue in But the people often for- also have a huge part in This was the first major it to students. public recognition for its food the lobby. gotten during the chaos of the helping the homeless com- service project I ever partici- “Teachers play a big role drives. Stewart com- According to as- season are the people just pray- munity. pated in and it really changed mented that sistant principal Sarah ing for enough food to fill their While coordinat- my perspective of the home- Headline headline headline in the past Hembree, the change stomachs. ing projects with Second less. the Tallahas- was made to “Can the The homeless population Harvest and United Way Before serving lunch at the see Demo- Lion” because former continues to grow at an alarm- among others, Publix itself Shelter, I never thought of the crat, as well Principal Rocky Hannah ing rate. According to the has numerous foundations homeless. However, when I as other local was unable to work in most recent statistics, roughly directed towards helping visited once a month and ac- news sources, his office due to the im- 610,000 Americans are home- food-insecure citizens. tually began talking to some have come to mense number of cans in less. Stephanie Kilham, the of the people who came in for Leon to cover there. For this cause, numerous director of donor relations lunch, I realized how similar the food drives. Leon will not be hav- programs in Leon County have at Second Harvest, has we were. The most ing the “Can the Lion” been constructed just to help been working to help food- Ever since this experi- successful food drive these people in dire need. For insecure people for the past ence I had a calling to help the this se- HUNGER example, The Shelter is a place six and a half years. She homeless. It’s always been an mester in downtown where people was employed as a social issue dear to my heart so when because CONTINUED PAGE 7 needing a bed and a roof over worker for the previous 12 I saw an opportunity at Leon the can- their heads can spend the night. years. to raise awareness about the cer fun- The United Way is one of Second Harvest is a homeless in our community I draiser many organizations that help volunteer community that had to take it. was with the struggles of homeless is a heavily supplied food 1 in 10 of these people such a societies along with people in bank for 11 counties, feed- are children and the Shelter in dire need of health care or edu- ing nearly 115,000 people. Tallahassee offers emergency cation. One single dollar can overnight care to 220 people Founded in 1943 by nine feed four mouths. regularly. concerned citizens, it was char- “In Tallahassee, one I plan for my project to tered with the concept of raising out of every six people is take off with the start of a money for charities. Last year, hungry,” Kilham said. “Just collection drive at Leon from the United Way of the Big Bend imagine lining up six of Nov. 17 to 25. There are also collected a million dollars for your classmates, and one of collection sites at Good Shep- the homeless. Big Bend. inspired by all of the people she you is most likely worried herd Catholic Church and Once merely known as the Heather Mitchell, CEO and meets as they work through the about whether they will be Paisley Café. The drive con- United Way of Leon County, it President of the United Way of battles they face and encour- having dinner or not. sists of collecting necessary has strengthened its company to the Big Bend, has been working ages everyone to help with the “To Second Harvest, items for living such as travel become the United Way of the at United Way for 16 years. She is cause. this is unacceptable.” size toiletries, granola bars, peanut butter crackers, socks, Gaining some perspective: Helping the homeless blankets, and bags. Coalition, a safe haven for many who Heather Mitchell, President and These people inspired Leon sopho- Many homeless people How teenagers can HUNGER walk around living without are out on the streets. The Coalition be- CEO of the United Way Big Bend, more Caroline Kirk also. After visiting FROM PAGE 6 gan its outreach in 2004. Within three hopes that all teenagers can somehow the Shelter, an organization that pro- any of these items that many service the home- years, it expanded into several rural support the homeless, especially in the vides a sanctuary to people needing a canned food drive was in 2007. food drives’ success. instead of the usual $2 for ad- cause both the varsity and ju- of us take for granted. After less for the communities around Leon County. fast approaching winter in Tallahassee. bed, she immediately wanted to help Leon was able to collect 22,063 “I am proud of what these mission. Their canned food nior varsity teams were able to the collection, I will be putting For the huge effect this founda- Additionally, Stephanie Kilham these people. food items, which collectively guys [SGA members] have ac- drive ends three days after participate and they made the the items together in Ziploc coming seasons tion has, they are always searching for from Second Harvest notes how spring To do that, she has been organiz- weighed over 17,000 pounds. Ac- complished,” Stewart said. the red and white game. This red and white game a much bags to deliver to the Shelter. volunteers to be employed to assist in is often forgotten in terms of food ing a fundraiser for the homeless called cording to Stewart, it took 30 stu- Leon also has another year’s red and white game was bigger event by having the The Shelter will then be able Sella Kinch food preparation, general maintenance drives. “Let’s Bag It.” People from schools all dents and two whole days to load smaller food drive in addi- held on Nov. 6. cheerleaders and dance team to give out these bags to the Features Editor and fundraising through certain events. “We get so many food drives in over Tallahassee will come to donate the cans into two separate trucks, tion to the big “Can the Lion” Each year the basketball perform at the game. people they serve. Homelessness is a plague sur- Bret Oglesby, the director of hous- the winter,” Kilham said. “Consider- things to create care packages for the which transported the food. drive. team tries to collect between Davis says the team en- This event featured May- rounding humanity, often brought up ing and outreach at Big Bend Home- ing this is the season of giving. In No- homeless. When asked what is the mo- The Leon High School 250 and 500 cans. joys doing the food drives. or-Elect Andrew Gillum and during the fall of every year as people less Coalition, has been working with vember and December all the schools “I worked on the fundraiser over tivation behind the food drives, basketball team had its very According to basketball “It’s a way for the players the Shelter Director, Jacob Re- begin to realize the concept of not hav- those in need of shelter for years now. in Tallahassee, Leon included, support the summer, but not religiously until Stewart said that feeding the hun- own canned food drive earlier coach Rick Davis, the team to give back to the community iter, and shows the new docu- ing Christmas presents or merely a He encourages teenagers to come the homeless, but we are often in dire October,” Kirk said. gry people in the community is this month. was able to collect about 325 and get included in making a mentary. Thanksgiving meal. and help at the Coalition, to not only need towards the spring.” “Let’s Bag It” has had many do- very important. The basketball team has cans this year. All of the cans difference,” Davis said. It is my goal to unite Although Leon High School help and improve the business, but for Kilham said that three food drives nations. Kirk also mentioned that this “Taking care of those in need, been doing their annual canned are donated to the shelter each Davis says the idea for schools in Tallahassee and our healthily supports the work of helping the experience as well. per year would be perfect. fundraiser is a way for her to work helping the school and helping the food drives since 2011. year. the basketball team to have its community to raise awareness the homeless in various food drives One idea for a fundraiser, often “At the end of the day, I love being with places that aid the homeless and community is a big deal,” Stewart They collect cans by en- The first year the team own canned food drive came of the homeless. and fundraisers, many companies still suggested by local foundations, is to able to help families that need food,” advance her communication skills. said. couraging the players and their was not able to reach its goal from a group of parents of the As students, we have the need help from volunteers willing to have a donation drive. she said. “I am very proud of everything that Every year, all the cans are do- parents to bring in canned because only the varsity team basketball players. ability to change the world give up a Saturday to sort cans or do- This may involve donating jackets Each homeless person touches all has happened,” Kirk said. “I have al- nated to Second Harvest, which is food. In addition to that, at participated. Also, not many They chose to have the around us, and making the is- nate to the cause. that don’t fit, toys which are no longer the businesses that help them, enchant- ways had a connection with the home- a food bank that helps fight hunger the basketball team’s red and people attended the red and food drive in November, so sue of homelessness known is A large benefactor towards the used and food with protein and nutri- ing them with their stories and their less and I’m overjoyed that I can do in the Big Bend area. white game, guests who attend white game. the food can get to the shelter one step toward getting people homeless is the Big Bend Homeless tion. struggles. something like this.” Stewart also mentioned that can opt to pay for their ticket Since then the team has in time for Thanksgiving. off the streets. SGA is responsible for much of the with $1 and one canned good been able to meet its goal be- 8 Nov. 2014 Features The Leon High Life Lions United helpers make a difference

EmmaLea Reed more time with the Features Editor kids. All of the Senior Mason Solari values his time helpers involved with students part of the Exceptional in Lions United Student Educational program so much love to see the ESE that he has allocated two periods a day to kids laughing and be involved with them. smiling. “The times that I’m with the kids is Senior Grayson the best part of my day,” he said. “They Heath has become just always seem so happy.” involved very Solari is a part of a group of students recently with the who help ESE students called Lions club. United, an organization founded by She claims that teacher Scott Evans. Evans “recruited” Whether it’s during class time or her, and once she during lunch, there are always students came into the hanging out in the Lions United classroom to hang classroom. out with the kids, Solari, who has been involved with she had to come Lions United for three years now, spends back. his first and sixth periods with the group. “I’m in love Lions United has had a huge impact with the program on Solari’s life, and he loves to come and and all of the kids,” Scott Evans spend time with the kids. Heath said. “They Last year’s Lions United helpers poses after taking home the state title at ESPN Wild World of Sports. Solari’s favorite part about Lions always hug me United is socializing with the ESE kids when I walk through the door.” “The student helpers are treated like and she helps out in it. and just making them smile. After having an awesome experience rock stars when they come in,” Evans Since her younger sister has Downs Junior Elyse Thompson has been at the Special Olympics, Evans decided said. Syndrome, Rogers has found it much involved with Lions United since her to start Lions United. “The kids get so excited to see them,” easier to work with the ESE kids. freshman year. At first, he started out with just a Evans said. “Lions United is harmony She adores working with the students, “Everyone here makes you smile,” small group of student helpers, but it within the student body.” and they’re always making her laugh. Thompson said. “Lions United is part of soon grew. Senior Sa’Doreia Rogers began “At first, you think that they’re so my life.” People saw their friends helping out working with the ESE kids this year. different,” Rogers said. Thompson hopes to be a teacher’s with the ESE kids and decided that they Her fifth period is a sewing class that “But when you get to know them, aid for Evans, so that she can spend even wanted to help too. many of the special needs kids attend, they’re not at all.”

WIMBERLY Senior ‘Crank[s] It Up’ FROM PAGE 1 her younger brother traveled in preparation for the football with their mother to her games on Saturdays. Lewis excels performances. Wimberley also “I really enjoyed watching choreographs for other teams in music my mom and seeing how she internationally. She teaches could excite and draw in a clinics, classes and private and more crowd during a performance,” lessons. Wimberley said. Wimberley has won several Emilee Bickel Wimberley has competed awards in addition to world Online Editor individually and on teams. championship titles. In high school and the In 2009, she was a finalist Senior Mikael Lewis formed beginning of college she was for the James E. Sullivan award. a band, Planets in Transit, in his on a team that was based out of The Sullivan award is given sophomore year with five other California. She constantly flew to the Nation’s Top Amateur musically talented students. back and forth on weekends to Athlete. The name Planets in Transit California. It’s similar to the Heisman was inspired by Gustav Holst's In 2005, her team won award for football players. orchestral suite “Planets.” the world championships in Wimberley and the other The members of the band Minnesota. finalists were flown to New are Lewis, Spencer McArthur, Hadley Richter Wimberley has competed at York for the ceremony. Max Brey, Jack Rutledge, Jas- World Championships based all Wimberley also was one of per Brey and Cody Johansen. year and is now in chorus. creating a radio show called around the globe. FSU’s 30 under 30. McArthur plays guitar, Max Lewis put aside guitar to “Crank It Up” that will be re- To name a few places, This is an award FSU plays bass guitar, Rutledge is focus on his band and Steel corded at a local bike shop. she has been to Italy, London, gives to one of their successful the percussionist, Jasper plays Drums. The shop is open to anyone Holland, Australia and France. graduates who is under 30 years piano, cello and helps with the “Planets in Transit” was that wants to have their bike Wimberley’s days are very old. arranging of the music and Jo- Lewis’ original performance worked on. busy as she teaches Advanced “I love twirling because it’s hansen plays electric guitar. name. Lewis volunteers as a shad- Topics and Algebra 2 until cool to see how captivated the Lewis plays guitar and steel He wrote music for guitar, ow mechanic for Bob Delgauto, seventh period. audience is,” Wimberley said. pan. but would never record or pub- the shop’s mechanic and key After school, she has FSU “Baton twirling is a rare and He started playing guitar in lish any of the music. holder. Auxiliary practice. They have a unique sport. the seventh grade and has been "I enjoyed writing the music He began volunteering there workout beginning at 3:30 p.m. “Not many people are really playing steel pan since he was a for myself," Lewis said. "I didn't early this school year. and end practice at 6:00 p.m. good at it either, and most freshman. think it was written well enough Lewis would like to attend On Thursdays and Fridays, people do not realize how elite Lewis has also been in cho- to share." any college that has a plethora practice can go as late as 8 p.m. and competitive it is.” ral lessons since his sophomore Lewis is in the process of of courses to offer him. The Leon High Life Sports Nov. 2014 9 Character Two-sport athlete Carter excels comes Freshman looks to before talent make an impact in Will Rasmussen multiple sports Sports Editor Will Rasmussen You have probably heard of the many Sports Editor headlines that Jameis Winston has made Freshman Kate Carter is a standout on and off of the football field. athlete with a rigorous schedule. The stolen crab legs, the sexual as- Carter plays on both the Leon varsity sault, the free fountain drinks are just a soccer and volleyball teams. In addition few of the negative headlines Mr. Win- to playing for the Lions, Carter landed a ston has attributed to. spot on the 14U U.S. Olympic develop- I have a question for Jameis and mental soccer team. countless other athletes, where will the She is one of two players selected line be drawn? from the state of Florida. Carter repre- While I am sure it is difficult for ath- sents the entire southeast of the United letes to keep it together under the spot- States, traveling to tournaments as far light, there should still be some guide- north as New York and as far west as lines. Some of the most prestigious Phoenix Arizona. colleges and universities pay millions of Some of Carter’s tournaments take Kate Carter dollars in scholarship money for athletes place in the middle of the school year. Kate Carter, shown playing for ASG, slide tackles at the Florida State Invitational. who cannot even use proper grammar. “The hardest part about juggling two An athlete can get into some of the sports is the scheduling,” Carter said. “A “I started playing when I was young- ence for me and I love playing for An- top institutions purely based off of ath- lot of times, I have to put off my home- er, none of my family members are really gie.” Carter said. “She is a great coach letic ability rather than his character as work until the last minute because of a athletic so I decided I would give soccer and I have improved a lot since joining a person. tournament, game, or practice.” a try,” Carter said. the team.” I think that schools should spend While Carter earned a varsity letter in Carter began playing for the local Carter played a huge part in Leon’s more time building the character of their both volleyball and soccer, she says she Tallahassee club team ASG and fell in success on the volleyball court. Standing athletes rather than focusing on how to likes playing both sports. love with the sport from then on. By the at 5-foot-10, Carter plays middle hitter make them a better athlete. “Both sports are entirely different, time her seventh grade year came around and registered 22 blocks in her first var- The lack of character among some soccer is more of an individual sport and she found her second love, volleyball. sity season. athletes exists in high school as well. I volleyball is more of a team sport, but I Carter played for two years at Holy She received quite a bit of playing feel that there is a lot Leon can do to pre- enjoy both sports the same,” Carter said. Comforter Episcopal School before tak- time throughout her freshman season, pare our athletes for the next level, both Carter took up soccer long before ing her talents to Leon. on the field and in the classroom. volleyball, picking up the sport at age six. “Volleyball has been a great experi- SEE CARTER, PAGE 12 Having great character is probably the most important part of being an ath- lete, yet some athletes still lack in that area. Not only do some athletes have a hard Roussel leaves France, now leads Lions time in the spotlight, but some people believe that they get special treatment. It seems as if athletes like Johnny Man- Will Rasmussen ziel and Jameis Winston get into trouble Sports Editor just because they think they can get away Junior Paul-Armand Roussel has with anything. traveled quite the distance to become a If I were to invest lots of money in Leon Lion. an individual, his skills should not be just Roussel hails from Monchy-Breton, a on the field. town two and a half hours outside of Par- College coaches have started to re- is, France. Roussel is part of Rotary Inter- alize that sometimes a great person out- national, a foreign exchange program that weighs the risk of recruiting a spectacu- allows him to stay with a host family for lar athlete. Four-star linebacker Ukeme a year in the United States Eligwe of Florida State was dismissed “It was a huge transition for me com- from the Seminoles earlier this year for ing to America,” Roussel said. “I come an undisclosed violation of team rules. from a town of 400 people and this school He provides a perfect example of how has nearly 2,000 students.” serious some coaches are about building In addition to living a new American great character. Though Eligwe is a very lifestyle, Roussel has shown talent on the talented player, due to his character off of soccer field. the field he was dismissed. Roussel leads the Lions with six goals Classes on character, team rules and in just five games. In France, Roussel guidelines are a few things that Leon can played midfield but his skill transitioned do to insure that our athletes make it at nicely to become a forward here. Leon Soccer the next level. “It feels pretty good to score,” Rous- Paul-Armand Roussel controls the ball playing against Tate High School. If Leon were to take a stand on the sel said. character of our athletes, we could then When comparing the United States to United States, all of whom are soccer “People seem to think that because I set an example for other schools around Monchy-Breton, Roussel says the free- fans themselves. am French I am so much different than the country. dom has been the biggest difference. “Every Saturday back home my fam- them, I am just a normal teenager,” he To get into college on an athletic “In Monchy-Breton you can’t drive ily gathers around the television and said. scholarship you need more than athletic until you are 18, it has been great to be watches soccer,” Roussel said. “My mom “I play video games and sports and I ability, you need to be a great person both able to go places and do things with my is rarely quiet and is constantly yelling at study just like everyone else.” on and off the field. the television.” Roussel plans to play club soccer as friends here,” he said. To ensure success at a high level, Roussel left both his parents and three Roussel is not the only person learn- well for Tottenham Hotspur FC Tallahas- character must come before talent. siblings in Monchy-Breton in route to the ing from the exchange, however. SEE ROUSSEL, PAGE 12 10 Nov. 2014 Sports The Leon High Life Beyer tackles a new sport achieves victories that last him Junior sees a lifetime. Obviously, he will long re- hard work pay member the win over the Penn- off in transition sylvania state champ, who had not lost in two years and boasted from football an overall record of 150-2. Beyer is also on the varsity to wrestling football team, playing at nose guard and left tackle. Hannah Rodriguez He feels that wrestling has Sports Writer helped him greatly with his football, as it enables him con- Although junior Gabe Bey- trol other people when he is er has only been wrestling for a tackling them. year, he’s already enjoyed a dis- He has been playing football tinguished career. since he was five and wants to In his first season for the continue playing in college. Lions, the 6-foot-1, 275-pound He is already being scouted wrestler came second in the dis- by the University of South Flor- trict competition and advanced ida and Alabama A&M. to the regional finals. His ultimate dream is to Furthermore, during a na- play in the National Football tional event this past summer, League. Hadley Richter he pinned a Pennsylvania state “Gabe is just really Gabe Beyer was named an AAU All-American last year, taking silver in the heavyweight division. high school champion in 18 sec- good at football,” junior onds. Ringel said. work ethic. He is also pretty fast, which Kyle Lingo said. “He succeeds Leon coach Charles Ringel, Wrestling is in Beyer’s He works during the sum- he feels gives him an edge. because of his mind set.” on a rather unfortunate note, bloodlines. His father was a mer with Cy Wainright, a for- Beyer has daily three-hour Beyer enjoys both sports experienced the brute power of state championship wrestler and mer national champion. practices during the season and equally, but says they there are Beyer’s innate wrestling ability his mom’s brothers were also in- He feels Wainright has had a when he gets home, his work pros and cons with each one. firsthand. volved in the sport. big impact on his success. is not done. His dad, one of his Although wrestling is a During a practice last win- During last summer’s na- Beyer says when you’re in biggest supporters, will invari- team sport, participants compete ter, Beyer broke Ringel’s leg, tional event at Disney World in this division a lot of it is just ably push him to do more condi- as individuals. cracking his femur and tibia and Orlando, he placed second over- brute strength and smart moves. tioning, sometimes making him “It’s one on one,” Beyer tearing his meniscus. all in the heavyweight division “His biggest assets are his do 200 additional pushups and said. “When you win, it’s all “My foot got caught in the against 80 teams. strength and ability to process go for a run. you. mat, I felt a crunch and then Beyer’s success is no acci- and learn things quickly,” Rin- Gabe knows his hard work “But when you lose, there there was just sharp pain,” dent as evidenced by his strong gel said. pays off, however, when he is no one to blame but yourself.” Sophomore’s talent shows in arts and athletics

Hannah Rodriguez lot because it is more intense and only in- Sports Writer cludes stunts and dancing. The hardest part of flying for her is Sophomore Emily Fenton’s life is learning new tricks in the air, and for filled to the brim with extra-curricular cheering, it is getting over the fear of per- activities. forming new stunts for tumbling. Not only is Fenton a varsity cheer- For Fenton, cheer and chorus are two leader and on the cheer competition totally different worlds but they both al- team, but she is also a member of Thespi- low her to do the thing she loves. ans, concert chorale, the national ACDA “They both make me perform, which honor choir and also takes musical the- I love,” Fenton said. “Performing is just ater and voice lessons. great.” This is Fenton’s first year cheerlead- Fenton’s father is a professor at Flor- ing. She was inspired to become a cheer- ida State University for choral and music leader from her gymnastics background. studies, so it easy to see where her musi- She competed in gymnastics from an cal passion stems from. early age, starting at two and going un- She was a member of the FSU chil- til she was 13 but decided that it was too dren’s choir and has been singing for as much and stopped. long as she can remember. “[Fenton] is amazing at tumbling,” Fenton also attended middle school teammate Christina Thompson said. “She at the School of Arts and Sciences, where Emily Fenton practices not only at practice but also at she found her love for musical theater Emily Fenton is a flyer for the varsity cheerleading team. home too which continues to make her and was taught to be creative. better. Besides her father, Fenton’s mother She wants to major in choral and mu- anything she can to be the best,” sopho- “She puts so much effort into it and and brother are also very supportive of sical theater at FSU and be taught by her more Madison Barfield said. tries to improve every chance she gets.” her activities. dad. She says she is always very busy and Fenton is a flyer for the both the Though they wish that she would After college, Fenton hopes to fulfill has little free time due to juggling chorus school and competition team. choose between chorus and musical the- her dream of performing on Broadway, and musical theater, but it is worth it. The school team only cheers for the ater and stick with one, Fenton wants to but her back-up option is to become a “My extracurriculars feel like free sports team while the competition team is continue with both. professor at a university and teach and time,” Fenton said. a travel team. “I love both of them, I couldn’t just conduct choral music. I don’t really notice how busy I am She enjoys the competition team a choose one,” Fenton said. “She is really motivated and will do because they’re so fun.” The Leon High Life Sports Nov. 2014 11 Jeremy Myers uses height to lead Logan McLanahan mental game,” Davis said. “His Sports Writer physical game is strong but he hasn’t quite got there with his Despite always being tall for his age, mental game.” Jeremy Myers’ first love was not basket- Now that the season has ball. started, Myers is showing just It was baseball. how hard he has been working. However, that changed one day in Davis says that Myers has the eighth grade when his P.E. teacher started taking what he has told simply had enough. him more serious and has be- “I was forced to play basketball,” gun taking it to heart. Myers said. “I used to play baseball, but “I have pretty good moves my coach hated the fact that I was this around the basket,” Myers tall and playing baseball. said. “When I get on the inside, “So he wouldn’t let me go home one I’m good but when I get on the day until I tried out for the basketball outside, it’s real good.” team.” He stays humble and Myers, now a 6-foot-6 junior, is makes sure to stay level head- playing on the boys basketball team for ed about his skills, but he says a third year. He sees action at both center it gets difficult when the crowd and power forward. gets loud. Myers was born in Baltimore, Mary- Myers wants to play in land. He has one sister who does not play college, but he wants to play basketball. somewhere in the North. He Myers’ mom played for Godby when would like to pursue a career she was in high school. in basketball playing for the Myers said he likes basketball be- Portland Trailblazers. cause of how competitive it is. “My biggest accomplish- Camille Okonwo “I actually like the crowd response ment isn’t any of the things Junior Jeremy Myers waits for the ball in the Lions’ tip-off game. Leon beat Wakulla, 73-63. the most though,” Myers said. I’ve done in high school,” My- up from the junior varsity team, but some He says they haven’t found their “It’s his presence that sets him apart ers said. players have not played until this year. groove yet. from the rest of the team” Coach Rick “My biggest accomplishment is go- “Myers is a leader on this team and The team has hopes of making it as Davis said. “He attracts a lot of people’s ing to be when I can play professionally is helping whip all the other boys into far as it can and wants to try to make it to attention.” and provide money for my family for ev- shape for this season,” Davis said. “He the state finals. Davis has been Myers’ coach since erything they have done for me.” wants this team to succeed.” Myers would like to continue playing his freshman year and has seen a lot of This year, the team is only starting Davis thinks the team will succeed basketball at Leon until he graduates. growth in him. with only three returning players. when the players start working as a team He has big goals set for himself this “One thing he needs to work on his Most players on the team have moved and not as individuals. season. Injury challenges girls basketball team

basketball since fifth grade. Her dad played high school Lead scorer’s injury and college basketball. Barnes was influenced by her brother and father to is one of many chal- stick with basketball. Coming off of a first-round defeat to Crestview in lenges for Lady Lions last year’s playoffs, the Lady Lions hope to go even further in the postseason due to the players’ increased John Ike Smith-Schoenwalder camaraderie. Co-Editor in Chief “This year, we are more of a team,” Barnes said. “Everybody clicks with each other.” Tearing her left meniscus immediately after Beating out rivals Rickards and Godby at the end of the first couple of games was not how sopho- year is one of the girls’ main goals. more Destyni Barnes had hoped to start this sea- “The talent on our team is exciting,” head coach son. Bruce Daniels said. “We have a lot of underclassmen The Lady Lions are currently 2-3 despite and are a young team, but we are growing.” losing Barnes. The average recovery time for Without key player Barnes, the Lions will have a a meniscus tear is four-to-six weeks, so Barnes tougher time throughout the regular season as they is focusing on being at her full potential come have prepared for. postseason. “We have played through injuries before,” Barnes averaged over 10 points-per-game in Daniels said. “We will face this situations like this but the 2013 season and recently scored 18 against we have to keep going forward. Rutherford in the 2014 season’s first game. “We are pushing other people to step up.” Barnes played varsity basketball last year as In the offseason, Barnes practices and competes a freshman and has already shown potential. with the travel team Big Bend Ballerz. As a leader of the team, junior Eleana Dan- “She is getting a lot experience by playing against iels recognizes talent and indefinitely knows great competition,” Daniels said. “[Destyni] has been that Daniels will become an immensely talented Destyni Barnes playing with a lot more confidence.” player. Destyni Barnes dribbles while playing for her travel team. When Barnes returns to play this year, she has one “Destyni is very eager and hungry,” Daniels priority beside helping the team finish strongly. said. “She comes to practice with great energy, Barnes hopes to average at least 20 points-per-game “My priority is not getting hurt,” Barnes said. “I is a hard worker on the court and is always willing to this season. tend to be accident-prone.” compete.” Barnes plays small forward and has been playing 12 Nov. 2014 Sports The Leon High Life

ROUSSEL FALL FROM PAGE 9 Buy an ad in see, a club based out of England. sel said. SCOREBOARD “I played for St. Paul back home and His peers have also noticed his po- the paper. I am going to play for a club here too,” tential. Football Roussel said. “I’m trying to focus on “Paul’s experience in Europe gives Looking for a way to Date Opponent school and soccer.” him a style of play most in Tallahassee advertise? 10/31/14 Chiles, W 45-0 Roussel began playing soccer at age have never seen before,” teammate Carl- six, following the footsteps of his two ton Disalvo said. “He’s tough, goes for 11/07/14 Providence, L 30-17 Come to IA4 or contact 11/14/14 at Niceville, L 44-6 older brothers. every ball, and has natural skill to top it “Soccer is more important to me off. He’s a great addition and we’re glad our Editors in chief than school is, here in America,” Rous- to have him.” Boys/Girls Cross Country Date Event 11/01/14 District, 2nd/3rd 11/08/14 Regional 1st/10th 11/15/14 State 2nd

Boys Basketball Date Event 11/18/14 West Gadsen, L 66-53 11/25/14 Wakulla 11/28/14 Madison 12/02/14 at Thomas County 12/05/14 East Gadsden 12/06/14 Colquitt 12/09/14 at Chiles 12/11/14 Godby

Girls Basketball Date Event 11/06/14 at Rutherford, L 80-61 11/10/14 Wakulla, W 48-32 11/14/14 NHCA, L 80-17 11/18/14 Chiles, W 45-41 11/20/14 Godby, L 50-44 11/22/14 Providence 11/24/14 Madison

Boys Soccer Date Event 11/07/14 at Lincoln, W 3-2 11/12/14 at Chiles, L 4-1 11/14/14 Tate, W 6-2 11/21/14 at Episcopal 11/22/14 at Mandarin 12/01/14 Columbia 12/05/14 at Episcopal CARTER 12/06/14 Rutherford FROM PAGE 9 12/09/14 Chiles making big plays in big time games Carter would like to attend Florida against Chiles and Niceville. State University on a soccer scholarship Girls Soccer “It is a lot of pressure to be on the but she has been considering North Caro- Date Event varsity volleyball team as a freshman,” lina, Duke and Stanford. Her volleyball 10/27/14 at Godby, W 8-0 Carter said. “I give credit to coach Strick- teammates have noticed her leadership 11/10/14 Gainesville, W 2-0 land for helping me improve as a player.” and skills on the court as well. 11/18/14 at Lincoln, W 3-2 While Carter has seen success on “Kate is a great player, she is such a 11/20/14 Maclay, T 1-1 both the soccer field and volleyball court, hard worker and she inspires everyone 11/21/14 at Wakulla she plans on playing one sport in college. around her,” teammate Elyse Thompson 11/24/14 at Florida High “I want to play soccer in college but I said. “There is nothing stopping her from 12/03/14 Columbia don’t plan on playing volleyball,” Carter being one of the best Leon volleyball has said. ever had.”