THE In This Issue...

An eclectic addition to Individual holiday spirit. Into the intensity that is Leon’s faculty. page 5 Coach Rice LEON page 2 page 9

HIGH LIFEMay, 2004 550 E. Tennessee St. Tallahassee, FL 32308 (850) 488-1971 Vol. LXXXVII No.4 Celebrating 86 years as the voice of Leon. December 2005 Issue The half day is back to stay By Eden Joyner ricane season, the Leon County School system had school’s schedule. High Life News Editor extended all short exam days to full school days last Students are thrilled with the return of the nor- year. This year, exam week has returned to its regu- mal exam schedule. As the weather starts to cool down, students start lar schedule; two exams per day, and then the early “I think the fact that we’re returning to the half- to get anxious. Semester exams are just around the release schedule. day schedule is the best thing I’ve heard all year,” corner. Luckily, this year’s exams are going to be Rocky Hanna, Leon High School’s principal, junior Amy Smith said. “I’m completely relieved. less stressful. The beloved half-day exam schedule said that the half-day exam schedule will remain per- Staying at school all day was painful and tiring after is back. manent. Hanna claims that the only way that it will our exams, so the change this year will be welcomed Due to a long and disastrous 2003-2004 hur- change is if another disaster interferes with the by all, I presume.” Cowdrey’s Holiday traditions overseas at Leon By Caroline Whitney adventure High Life News Writer For most people, the holiday break By Kany Aziz consists of Christmas trees and stock- High Life News Writer ings. However, some students, like those who celebrate Hanukkah, Eid Al- Leon history professor Pete Adha and Kwanzaa, return home for a Cowdrey has done many extraordinary different kind of celebration. things in his life. He often shares these “The date for Hanukkah changes real life accounts with his students. every year, but the traditions we cel- Last month, Cowdrey visited Jerusa- ebrate stay the same,” said Jeff lem, the city that is famous for its con- Naftzinger, a Jewish Leon sophomore. flicts and its religious background. “We have a Menorah and open a Cowdrey and his wife went on a trip present each of the eight nights, the to Jerusalem with his brother because regular stuff. My mom used to work in they were all extremely interested in mak- our temple gift shop, so we have some .. ing a pilgrimage. They left Nov. 9. top-of-the-line menorahs.” “I’ve always wanted so see Another Jewish sophomore at Leon, Bethlehem, Nazareth and Jerusalem,” Sasha Ciupalo, celebrates Hanukkah a Cowdrey said. little bit differently. Cowdrey and the rest of the tour “My family and I all sit around in a party, a Catholic organization that he circle on the floor, playing dradle in tux- signed up with, followed a route that al- edos,” Ciupalo said. “Sometimes we lowed him to see many of the Christian have latkes. The mother always makes religious sites. the latkes.” “For Christians who were there to see Some students here at Leon celebrate the place, there were really powerful im- a holiday known as Eid Al-Adha, the ages,” Cowdrey said. “There’s a lot you Muslim holiday. can’t see in one day, and even 10 days “We spend the day in prayer and in is really not enough. But what we saw, the company of our friends and family,” we will never forget.” Avan Aziz, a Leon sophmore said. “It “It offers that opportunity to see the Photo by Jenny Lieb really brings the Muslim community to- birthplace of Christianity…just to walk Leon’s Pat Manderfield fakes out a Chiles opponent at a recent gether.” Continued on page 4 varsity soccer game. See story page 9. December Editorials Page 2 Generosity doesn’t need rewards people, always looking for an STUFF we don’t know what could do. have things so that we can get opportunity to help those less to do with ourselves. We give a few of our thou- things in return. It’s a vicious fortunate than themselves. But Why is it, then, that the way sands of dollars towards the cycle of materialism and lack are we really? to get us to donate goods, cause (as long as there’s a of compassion for the people In reality, most of us donate time, love, whatever, often re- prize) while Cubans give in true need. supplies in order to fill club quires some sort of selfish wholeheartedly, expecting Cynics argue that it criteria or to gain some type benefit? nothing in return. Speaking shouldn’t matter what our rea- of reward. Pierian threatens I went to Cuba a couple strictly for numbers, Americans sons are behind generosity, as By Julia Clarke probation if members neglect summers ago, and my shel- are more generous. But genu- long as we are giving. If it High Life Editorial Editor their service hours. SGA tered eyes saw poverty for the ine generosity lies in the hearts takes extra credit points to get promised free breakfast to the first time. Ironically, these of Cubans. students to be charitable, so Recently, the Can the Prin- third period class that pro- children who had nothing gave Holiday shopping in the be it, right? Wrong. We cipal drive, sponsored by duces the most cans. Teach- more than anyone else I know. United States traditionally should bring in our cans, our Leon’s Student Government ers offer extra credit points for They certainly couldn’t top translates to demand and sup- supplies, our time, for the sake Association (SGA), sent over bringing in canned goods. We 7,000 cans because they are ply, literally. Kids beg, and of helping others. We should 7,000 cans to Second Har- actually need an incentive to not financially able, but they parents buy. The news re- do it because we are compas- vest, an organization that aids give. gave all they could. They ports of fights breaking out in sionate, not because we almost needy people on Thanksgiv- America is the land of served me dinner on the best front of Wal-Mart, of a per- have an A in the class and ing. plenty. We have plenty of dishes they had; they gave me fectly kind mother yanking a those ten extra points will Earlier this year, students money, plenty of restaurants, pictures that they drew; they useless toy out of the hands of make the difference. donated money and goods to plenty of stores, plenty of ma- took me to their parks and another parent, and of shock- This time, let’s give for no victims of Hurricane Katrina terialistic teenagers, plenty of beaches; they painted my nails. ing increases in sales from the reason. Instead of buying a and helped support children in people who are simply fed too In America, that isn’t con- previous year. gift for someone who doesn’t Iraq. much. We should be gener- sidered generous, but it was For what? We are giving need it, buy one for someone On the surface, it looks like ous. We have so much the absolute best that they more things to people who who does. And don’t do it for students at Leon are generous extra credit. Letters to the Editor Recently, my wife and I placed prayers of I heard that this school from the janitors. Why can’t you’ll never see the same joined my brother Tom for a rememberence to the entire year, the school system built in students just take 10 more bathroom again. 10-day Christian pilgrimage to Leon community within it. hurricane days so we would seconds to dispose of Could everybody please Israel. For those of us making not have to make them up later. unsanitary leftovers? Most of just take some extra time to We were three of about the pilgrimage, this was a time Now that hurricane us learned proper bathroom clean up like they would at 40 people from all over the of profound new beginnings. In season is over, and we clearly hygiene before kindergarten. home? And don’t forget to United States who wer able to that spirit, it is the hope and did not use these days, when There’s no reason to treat our wipe the seat. visit the Holy Land as a group prayer that I bring back from are we getting our hurricane bathrooms like Porta-Potties. Coral Burnaman of Catholic pilgrims and to see Bethlehem and Jerusalem that days back? There is probably We are in school from and explore many of the places everyone here and our families a connection between school August to May. It’s not like where Jesus lived and taught: be especially blessed with the starting ten minutes earlier Bethlehem, Nazareth, Cana, peace and the joy of this deeply this year and the built-in days. Capernaum, the Sea of Galilee, spiritual season. Now that we do not The Jordon River, Jericho, and May we be thankful for have to worry about the Jerusalem. all that we have; may we hurricane days, school should In the company of our continue to be always open to start and end like it originally Franciscan guide and our the needs of those around us, did last year (7:45 a.m.-2:55 Muslim bus driver, we and may the glad tidings and p.m.). This would make remembered everyone at Leon good news that we celebrate school seven minutes shorter, High School in each of the always be with us. and our students would be a shrines at the above-named Merry Christmas, Happy little less tired in the morning. places. Hannukah, and Happy Carolyn Crabtree At the end of our Kwanza, to one and all. pilgrimage, we also had the Pete Cowdrey It’s not too difficult to see opportunity to visit the Wailing that our bathrooms need some Wall in Jerusalem, and we tender loving care—and not The High Life The High Life is the official student newspaper of Leon High School. The newspaper staff controls all aspects of content and design. Kevin Record, the journalism teacher and advisor, The Leon High Life Staff provides guidance, supervision and assistance. Editors: Staff: The High Life strives to serve as a forum of public opin- Alexandra Curran- Editor-in-Chief Jared Casey ion. In keeping with that goal, the publication abides by all edito- Julia Clarke- Editorial Editor Angelina Colao rial policies stated in the staff handbook and does not publish ma- Eden Joyner- News Editor Holly Johnson terial that is libelous, obscene, or that may cause a substantial and Meghan Meehan-Draper- Features Editor Brianna Kelly material disruption of school activities. Elizabeth Nelson The High Life has been published continuously since 1919. Sam Hollister- Sports Editor Chris Reber Tom Postma- Assistant Sports Editor Annalaura Rehwinkel This publication is distributed free of charge and is funded Kany Aziz- Assistant News Editor Kate Small solely through staff-organized advertising. Jessica Moody- Advertising Manager Megan Spille Questions and comments: [email protected] Caitlin Gillmore- Photography Editor Joy Weaver Kevin Record- Advisor 550 E Tennessee St., Tallahassee, FL 32308 Caroline Whitney Phone 488-1971 ext. 2630 Fax 922-5311 www.leon.leon.k12.fl.us December News Page 3 How to ace those pesky exams

By Eden Joyner High Life News Editor “I stress to my students that “First, if a teacher gives an exam review sheet, use it! After all, the they need to keep their notebooks Take-home, multiple-choice or teacher is the one who made the exam. organized. I give study guides for essay, each exam has a unique el- Students seem to forget what valuable resources their textbooks and all of my literature units, so students ement that makes it what it is. notebooks are. Usually textbooks have some sort of preview at the can look back at those before the Teachers around Leon have beginning of a chapter and a review at the end of the chapter. Additionally, exam. If students find that they helped to compile a list of tips to most teachers give lecture notes. It’s a good idea for students to go back have lost some of their notes or through their notes (organizing them if they are stuffed everywhere) and help students ace the semester study guides, they should copy them re-read the information.” exams. Whether the tips are for from a reliable classmate. Also, I recommend writing the notes, not teachers’ exams specifically or -Mindy Fulton just copying them on a machine. exams in general, they have proven The kinesthetic action of writing can successful many years in a row. actually help students remember the material.” “If your teacher gives you a “One way to study might “I know that this may sound -Martha Towey study guide, use it! Form study be to design your own semester a bit sarcastic, but the best way to groups to study for your exam. exam by going through your pass an exam is to STUDY for it. Don’t wait until the last minute to notes/or chapters covered and Students should start preparing for study and prioritize your study thinking of possible questions their exams as early as possible. time for exams based on which that could be asked. Form study They should start reviewing the “Study especially the vo- exam will do the most to improve groups with kids who are also material now and not wait until the cabulary and verbs, start review- your semester average. If your trying to anticipate exam ques- last minute. Also, get a good ing a week before the test, review exam is a take-home essay test, tions and see if they have night’s sleep and eat breakfast in quizzes and tests, read aloud and PROOF READ it before turning thought of something that you the morning.” study with a friend.” it in!” forgot about.” -Kim Garcia -Pascale Shaftel -Eileen Schaap -Janice Ouimet

“Since the semester exams “1. Take careful notes in class. “1. Start reviewing a week in mathematics cover a lot of 2. Reorganize and study your notes several times a week throughout ahead. material, the best way to prepare the semester. 2. Start working the problems is by working problems and 3. Get a study partner or join a study group and meet regularly with you don’t understand. reviewing the chapters that will be them, sharing notes, reviewing materials, quizzing each other, etc. 3. After you’ve reviewed the covered on the exam. Students If you’ve done these things during the semester, you’re already pre- material, work all of the problems. should also heed suggestions pared for your exams; if you haven’t done them, you might want to polish 4. Don’t stay up all night be- regarding any type of testing up your “poor me” speech. You know—the one about how the teacher fore your exam and get a good situation. Do not stay up too late doesn’t like you, the test wasn’t fair, you didn’t get enough sleep the night breakfast in the morning. the night before, eat a good before, your father is basically too weird for anyone to live with, you had to 5. Don’t just memorize for the breakfast, allow sufficient time to work extra hours at your job, you think you’re coming down with mono, exam, but try to actually get the get to the exam without rushing your mother doesn’t understand the needs of teenagers, they don’t have to concepts.” and bring all of the materials you take exams at Chiles, your dog. . .” -Cesar Kothe are permitted to use on the - Eileene Parker exam.” -Judy Miller

if pursuing him now is really in your best interest. something stupid, tell her (nicely of course). Don’t My advice? Give it time. Relationships don’t last make her defensive by being judgmental and be Dear Eden, forever (unless they’re soul mates) and eventually, sure to remind her you’re only talking to her about I have a crush on one of my best friends. your friend may want to move on. Then, you can do it because you care about her. If she doesn’t re- The only problem is that he has a girlfriend. I’ve all that you want to “seduce” him, but for now, I’d spect your opinion then honestly, she isn’t acting met her once (she doesn’t go to Leon) and she is re-examine the situation, lay low, and turn your at- like a good girlfriend. One of the less exciting as- so nice. I would never want to break them up, but tention to other things, while staying his friend. Your pects of having a girlfriend/boyfriend is that you deep down inside, I really hope that they do. I’ve time will come soon enough. have to listen and advise the other sometimes. If never told him how I feel, but some of my friends Eden she isn’t willing to hear what you have to say, you’ll say that he’d go out with me if he didn’t already have to make a decision about whether a relation- have a girlfriend. I’ve tried to get over him, but I Dear Eden, ship with her is still right for you. If it’s really both- can’t. Every time I see him, I fall more in love with My girlfriend and I have been dating for ering you that much, the only way to make the him. What do I do? about seven months now. Throughout that time, she’s situation better is to talk to her about it. Platonically In Love done the normal high school things, such as gone to Eden parties and gotten a little “crazy,” if you get what I Dear Platonically In Love, mean. I have no problems with her responsible us- Forget about what you can’t control (how age of such things, but lately I’ve noticed her party- he feels), and take care of what you can control ing has escalated and I think she’s been “experi- Need Advice? (who you are). You just have to figure out how menting.” Should I trust her to not do something stu- you would feel if he did break up with his girlfriend pid, or should I talk to her about it? Ask Eden at: for you. The momentary happiness of having “the Too Crazy for Me boy of your dreams” may be overshadowed by eden_leonhighlife your guilt; probably not the best way to start a re- Dear Too Crazy for Me, lationship. You have to judge the situation and see Talk to her. If you think that she’s doing @earthlink.net December News Page 4 The eclectic Dr. LeValley: Leon substitute By Kany Aziz By Kany Aziz High Life News Writer

Chorus fundraiser successful Students may recognize Dr. Paul LeValley, a sub- Leon’s chorus and Chiles’ chorus came to- stitute at Leon, by his color-matching clothes and gether to give a fundraising performance on Dec. white-blonde long hair and beard. When he subs 1 at 7:30 p.m in the Chiles’ auditorium. Chiles’ for English and history classes, students also notice Belle Chantique and Leon’s Capital Singers, his well developed knowledge of the subject. Opus 29 and selected members of the Leon or- This acquired knowledge comes from his college chestra participated in Women in Song, the pro- years at the University of Michigan, where he ma- duction they put together. jored in English and minored in history. Yet, that was not exactly what LeValley was looking for. “I was looking for something between the two, Yearbooks selling fast and humanities let me do that,” LeValley said. The yearbook staff will be selling yearbooks LeValley put aside money every way he could in during both lunches in January. Students who order to take a huge voyage. As he thinks back on have yet to purchase a yearbook have an op- the cost he does not think it was a financial prob- portunity to buy one. The price is $65. lem. “It’s no more expensive to travel than it is to stay False fire causes alarm home,” LeValley said. At age 28, he took a trip around the world. His On the week of Mon. 28, smoke was seen trip commenced with North America, down through coming from the gym. There were technicians Central America and into South America, then replacing all the air condition and heating pipes across the Atlantic to Africa, up into Europe, across in the gym, Reading Building and ROTC build- the Middle East, into India, down through South- ing. They were welding the new pipes when the east Asia and continued south to Australia. He was insulation was caught on fire. This happened able to do this within a year and be home in time for during second lunch. A fire truck came to Leon. Christmas. There was no damage done to the new pipes. When LeValley came back to the United States, Photo by Caitlin Gillmore he studied for a Masters in humanities at Wayne Dr. LeValley regularly substitutes at Leon. State University in Detroit. There he was introduced he frequently substitutes for Leon High School and Student takes a bad fall to two tracks of humanities. He could study West- Sail High School. Sophomore Kaely Stephens fell down the ern or Eastern. He decided on Eastern studies be- “Substituting is the only job I know where I can stairs in front of the band room on Tuesday. She cause he was especially interested in India. come in one day and say I have a better offer; I’ll was feeling dizzy, which caused her to tumble LeValley was lured to Tallahassee, be- see you in six months,” LeValley said. down the stairs. She never lost conciousness. The cause of the Ph.D. Humanities program at Florida LeValley has not always substituted. Three years ambulance was called and Stephens was taken State University. ago he was a fulltime teacher for half a year at Leon to the emergency room. She suffered bruises and LeValley’s interests were not limited and was also High School. He taught Mr. Cowdrey’s classes. was sore, but no bones were broken. expanding towards other areas at the same time. LeValley said he has had many different influences He began writing and published a full length novel that helped him throughout his years and experiences. called The Orfalinda Trilogy and Other Early However, there are two major influences in Phoenix digs up dirt Writings and wrote on the history of his hometown, LeValley’s success. The Phoenix club at Leon is starting an herb Morrice, Michigan, where he grew up on a farm. “[A] very scholarly high school teacher and garden in one of the practice fields. A few of the After earning his PhD, he was given the job of Thoreau’s book Walden—which made me see you herb choices are lavendar and chamomile. Phoe- develop an Islamic unit of Humanities in Florida A can live very cheaply by not wasting your time and nix plans to sell these herbs if they can grow & M University. He then continued to teach semes- money on things everybody else is chasing after,” enough. ter courses at both FAMU and FSU. Lately, the LeValley said. “That frees you up to do the things need for a semester teacher has dwindled, and now you want to.” COWDREY Continued from page 1 cracks. through several marketplaces. Cowdrey wishes he could go there in the footsteps of Jesus “One of the things we prayed for Cowdrey illustrated a typical mar- back to visit more sights and ex- and to see where all those places was real peace between all the ketplace as a colorful place with perience the life there again. He were…we feel blessed to be able groups,” Cowdrey said. many different shops. He said the is sure his experience will aid in to take the opportunity,” Cowdrey The hotel his group stayed at smell of the spices was over- his teaching of the area. He said it said. provided all the necessities that whelming and that everything has already helped him. One thing he said he continued are offered in the United States. smelled good. “We brought back some of the to notice was how close the dif- They were warned about the water Even though there was not any things I knew I could use for teach- ferent religions were mixed. and advised to buy bottled water violence, they did stumble upon an ing,” Cowdrey said. “When I read “In a number of sights, the reli- for drinking. However, they drank interesting surprise one night. about it now I think ‘Oh, that’s gious places were like this,” the local water everyone else did The whole group was woken up where Mount Tabor was’.” Cowdrey said as he twined his fin- and did not encounter any prob- one night at the hotel. There was a With all the background knowl- gers together. “The teaching of lems with it. loud popping noise interrupting edge on Jerusalem, and with this Jesus was right there, the Dome “We ate the same food that ev- the silent night. Trying not to new first-hand knowledge, of the Rock was right there.” erybody else did,” Cowdrey said panic, they asked around about the Cowdrey is able to come with a Five times daily, he heard the as he described how much he en- noise. They calmly went back to conclusion. edhaan, the Muslim call to joyed the lamb. their rooms after finding out the “It’s never been a land of peace prayer. He visited the Wailing There was not much time for noise was firecrackers from a and the history still goes on,” Wall and put a prayer within the extra activities, but they did go nearby Palestinian wedding. Cowdrey said. “But there’s good reason to hope.” December Features Page 5 The verdict on political issues

By Meghan Meehan-Draper High Life Features Editor IIssueIss Support Oppose Abortion, gay mar- riage, the war in Iraq— Gay Marriage 54% 41% these are all controver- sies that are evident in Abortion 62% (pro-choice) 34% (pro-life) today’s society. Natu- rally, teenagers will have The War in Iraq 32% 59% opinions about these rel- evant issues. The Death Penalty 60% 36% Where do Leon stu- dents stand? Are stu- Legalizing marijuana 56% 44% dents’ views balanced? The Leon High Life sur- veyed students to find out Formal prayer in school 43% 57% what political issues are supported and opposed Lowering the legal drinking age 51% 46% at Leon. Two English classes Requiring students to say the pledge every 55% 42% per grade, one general and day one honors class, were surveyed. Several stu- Requiring every person to drive a Hybrid car 32% 68% dents chose not to vote on certain issues, which is why some of the per- Increasing gun control 61% 39% centages don’t add up to 100. With that in mind, here are the results: Not your average holiday traditions

By Megan Spille comes in a velvet bag with a High Life Features Writer small hammer, and we pass it around so everyone can take Almost all families have a crack at it,” she said. “ Af- some sort of tradition for the ter that, we all eat a piece. Sup- holidays. Many holiday tradi- posedly, it brings in good luck tions resemble your typical with the new year.” Hallmark commercial. Other students try to get However, every so often, some exercise over the holi- someone breaks the mold of days. the “normal” tradition. Leon “Every year, the day after students have some interesting, Thanksgiving, our entire fam- and sometimes odd, stories to ily goes on a two mile walk,.” tell about their family’s annual senior Justine Finley said. practices during this magical “It’s just something we do to time of the year. be together, and plus people “During Christmas, my are always complaining about family and I make strands of how much weight you can put cranberries and cumquats,” on during the holidays. I think senior Catherine Earp said. our tradition solves that.” “We form them into orna- Sometimes tradition means ments and take them outside to fast food. Photo by Caitlin Gillmore hang them on trees for the “I have a friend who goes Leon’s SGA got into the spirit of the holiday season with decorating the main lobby. animals,” she said. “ My whole to McDonald’s every year the family is full of animal lovers. day before Thanksgiving,” se- together every year at my “We practice a Polish tradi- to be reminded what Christ- Animals deserve a Christmas nior Elise Worchel said. “ Ap- neighbor’s house and stand out tion every year for Christmas mas is really supposed to be. feast, too.” parently her family was on the on her porch,” junior Victoria dinner,” said senior Katie It’s not all Santa and iPods.” Senior Elizabeth Chambers road one year a long time ago, Whitney said. Grabowski. “We leave out an The holidays bring differ- incorporates German practices and the only option they had “They play every Christmas extra plate, with every serving ent meanings and rituals for in her festivities. was McDonald’s. So now song known to man on these of food on it in front of an each individual, and every “We crack a peppermint pig they’ve made a tradition out of musical bells. They do it all empty chair. It symbolizes that person celebrates differently. every year on New Year’s it. I have no clue why.” night long, and they play the we recognize there are people One trait each has in com- Day,” Chambers said. “I think Music is another form of bells so loud the whole neigh- less fortunate than us, and that mon, though, is the holiday it’s a German tradition.” celebration for the holidays. borhood can hear them. It’s they need our help. Also, dur- spirit. “This little peppermint pig “My neighbor’s church gets really cool.” ing this time of the year we need December Features Page 6 That funny girl: M.C. Strickland

By Meghan Meehan-Draper AP Lang, AP Statistics, and how paying attention to class High Life Features Editor Physics Honors. She’s been discussion at the same time,” in the Gifted Program since the Parker said. “She’s self-disci- Among her peers, junior third grade. Strickland also has plined and self-contained—a M.C. Strickland is known as a 3.67 GPA and loves English darned good student who tends “that funny girl.” She has a and history. She makes good to ‘hide her light under a bas- unique wit and an outspoken grades in her math and science ket!’” attitude. Strickland stands out classes but doesn’t enjoy them Strickland has specific likes among her classmates with her as much because she has “to and dislikes that make her per- sharp sense of humor and cun- try a lot harder.” sonality distinctive. She doesn’t ning intelligence. History teacher Betsy like people who think they “She’s ridiculous,” said her Fisher said that Strickland is a know everything or people who best friend, junior Lane Turkle. great student. After high are fake. She considers good “No, really—she makes my school, Strickland wants to go manners very important. sides hurt.” to Auburn University and be- Strickland’s guiltiest pleasures Many of her friends can re- come either a dentist or a der- are junk food and the soap op- count stories of Strickland matologist. era Guiding Light. She loves freely and gladly voicing her “I really like medicine and the sound of air conditioners opinion. stuff, but I would hate operat- and hates the word succumb. “I say the things that every- ing and doing really gross stuff,” Photo By Caitlin Gillmore Strickland loves music from one thinks but don’t have the Strickland said. “I also want Junior M.C. Strickland is known for her brains and humor. the 1990s, working out, and guts to say,” Strickland said to make a lot of money.” reading classic romance nov- with a laugh. “And a lot of the Strickland says that she is els. If she were to pick an having played before. She de- time those things are negative.” constantly thinking, which “[Strickland] is probably one actress to play her in a movie, scribes making the team as her When speaking, Strickland sometimes can be misinter- of the most devoted girls I’ve she would choose Reese biggest achievement “because frequently pushes her shoulder- preted as being shy. She has ever met,” Dilbeck said. “She Witherspoon. She is most Leon volleyball is really presti- length, blonde hair behind her an incredibly laid back de- puts her full effort into every- afraid of going crazy, and she gious.” ears. Even when cracking a meanor and is very easy go- thing she does.” wants to be remembered for Strickland said that she joke or uttering a sarcastic com- ing. Her humor is discreet, and Strickland always strives for changing the world. Her fa- pushed herself hard trying to ment, Strickland has an amaz- most of her jokes are spoken success. Approval from author- vorite movies are Pretty prove herself to the team. The ing ability to barely let her under her breath. ity figures is very important to Woman and Mr. and Mrs. second time she ever ran a thoughts show on her face. “[Strickland] is a very nice her. In fact, her biggest disap- Smith. She is often told that mile, she ran it in 7 minutes and Her eyes, which are rounded young lady with a good sense pointment is not making straight she resembles “LC” from 30 seconds. and animated, and her raised of humor…she seems to be A’s. MTV’s Laguna Beach. “I pretty much turned green eyebrows give away her sharp very well-liked by her peers,” “I hate not coming out on top But what is Strickland’s most at the end, but I still did it,” she one-liners. Fisher said. “She’s fun to have because I didn’t do my best,” endearing quality? said. Junior Jessica Dilbeck loves in class.” she said. “I love it when I meet She worships Oprah Besides volleyball, Strickland’s sense of humor Strickland says that being my expectations.” Winfrey. Strickland is in Amitie, French and personality. comical comes naturally to her. Eileene Parker is “I think Oprah should be Honor Society and Key Club. “She always has something “I never try to be funny,” Strickland’s AP English Lan- president,” Strickland said. Outside of school, she works funny to say to get me out of Strickland said. “I just say guage teacher. Parker adores “Duh.” at a private law firm, filing and my bad mood,” Dilbeck said. what I think.” having Strickland in her class. M.C. Strickland is full of making runs to the courthouse. Strickland’s clever hilarity Strickland is obsessed with “Smart and imaginative, thoughts. She always has “I try really hard,” Strickland may be attributed to the fact working hard and succeeding. [M.C.] sits quietly in the back something to say, and what- said. “I want to succeed.” that she is very smart. Her Last year, she made the JV of the room in all her blond ever she says will be funny. Dilbeck realizes this about schedule includes AP French, volleyball team without ever glory, daydreaming but some- her friend. The best childhood shows

By Elizabeth Nelson cartoon characters with eccentric names ing plot line that caused even the brav- High Life Features Writer quickly warmed its way into the hearts est eight-year-olds to run for their moms. of children. Created by Jim Jenkins, the It featured a group of teens (calling them- When people think of the 90s, a few plot centered around Doug Funnie and selves “The Midnight Society”) sitting things may come to mind: bad hairstyles, his family living in the fictional town of around a campfire and telling scary sto- the OJ Simpson trial and, of course, the Bluffington. Together, with his best ries. narrated by a different character period when was at its best. friend Skeeter Valentine and his crush and was told in hopes of being scarier Some may remember the early Patti Mayonnaise, Doug finds himself in than the one told before it. Created by Nickelodeon days: getting up early on all kinds of adventures. He records them Will Dixon and Jacques Laberge, the Saturday mornings to watch Doug and all in his journal and sometimes draws show was a huge success. Salute Your Shorts, staying up “late” to them out in comic books about a super- “Are You Afraid of the Dark? was one laugh at All That and being creeped out hero he created named “Quailman.” of the best shows ever,” senior Cole by Are You Afraid of the Dark? But “I liked watching him embarrass him- Ahnberg said. “My personal favorite was where have all these great shows gone? self in front of Patti Mayonnaise,” sopho- the story where the guy was a ghost but Nowadays, TV shows like Spongebob more Elizabeth Breslin said. didn’t realize it.” Squarepants, The Fairly Odd Parents and Junior Michael McKinnon believes the Sophomore Pierce Cassedy says he rule the prime slots and, as most reason everyone loved Doug was simple. wasn’t as brave as he tried to make him- Graphic Logo of The Nicelodeon show “Are You Afraid of The Dark?” would agree, these new shows just aren’t “Doug was the average guy who any- self seem. up to par with the old Nick. one could relate to,” McKinnon said. “His “I couldn’t sleep for around three The Leon High Life raises its glass to school had the same people you see walk- weeks every time I watched Are You which began its run in 1991, cashed in these familiar and well-missed Nickel- ing around Leon, except they’re not all Afraid of the Dark?” Cassedy said. on that love. The show centered on a odeon shows of the early 1990s. green or purple. It’s universal.” group of kids at a summer camp run by Are You Afraid of the Dark? Salute Your Shorts the heard-but-never-seen Dr. Kahn. Doug Airing from 1992 – 1996, Are you Summer camp is a beloved experience Doug first aired in 1991. Its lovable Afraid of the Dark? had an ever-chang- for many children. Salute Your Shorts, Continued on page 7 December Features Page 7 Just say no to bad winter fashion

a hobby that many people en- But there are those around joy, and I fully respect that. But school who choose to display Column for the sake of those who walk their Christmas/Hanukkah/ the halls with you, please save Kwanza spirit in sometimes By AnnaLaura Rehwhinkel the hunting garb for recre- obnoxious ways. High Life Features Writer ational wear. Huge red sweaters with Fashion mistakes are made Ugg boots Frosty the Snowman or at any point during the year. When Ugg boots first came Rudolph the Reindeer can kill Summer, spring and fall cli- out, a person couldn’t open a the joy of even the most spir- mates provide anyone, magazine or turn on the televi- ited students. If you want to whether they are a first time sion without seeing some ce- spread a little Christmas cheer, or a repeat offender, with lebrity sporting a pair of shoes stick with holiday socks. (No Graphicbycustomdesginsweaters.com plenty of room to make a that resemble Native American bells, please). This is not exactly what a multitude of mistakes. winter footwear. Thin Scarves Graphic from MossyOak.com The illusive camo jacket. person should be wearing But when winter comes, in But their uniqueness was Coats, sweaters and lay- anytime of the year. an effort to bundle up and get what made them edgy and ered shirts: pile them on to warm, students tend to go a fashion-forward. Only the hot- keep yourself warm. During little crazy, wearing things that test celebrities and trend set- the winter season, there’s are sometimes offensive to ters had them, and for the com- nothing worse than coming out onlookers mon shopper, it was months of your car and being greeted Camo jackets and before you could even get on by a nasty gust of icy wind. jumpsuits a waiting list to get a pair. Early in the morning, the air School is a place for study- That was over two years packs an extra punch, and ing and gaining knowledge. ago. The fad has died, and being constantly cold puts a Or, if you’re not particularly now it just looks like you’re damper on your day. What is academically inclined, it is a wearing the same dead wood- unfathomable to me is what place to see your friends and land creature on your feet as good a 12 foot long, shoe- Graphic from Nordstrom.com interact with other people. everyone else. string-width scarf does to in- This may come as a sur- There’s a reason why crease your warmth. The not so stylish Ugg boot Photo from abercrombie.com This scarf is simply too prise to more than a few Leon they’re called “uggs”: they’re It doesn’t keep you warm is just too cumbersome forany sort of practical use skinny too warm even students, but school is not a ugg-ly. They may be warm, in the slightest, and they drag . Twiggy up. place for hunting. There is ab- but they are no longer cute and around your feet, tripping you solutely no need to be cam- definitely no longer in style. up. ouflaged. Holiday apparel So wear them as a belt, use To the best of my knowl- It’s so nice to see the school them for decoration on a edge, there are no furry crea- getting into the spirit of the sea- snowman, or just throw them tures running around waiting to son. The holiday tree and other away, because things that give be shot. So why do students decorations that Student Gov- you no warmth in the winter insist on wearing camouflage ernment put up in the lobby fill have no business being in- and hunting gear? us with holiday warmth and a cluded in your fashion ward- I understand that hunting is sense of school unity. robe. Shows continued from page 6

The characters included Night Live for children, cluding Super Dude, Re- Z.Z. Ziff, Eddie All That featured an all-star pairman and the misfit fast ‘Donkeylips’ Gelfen, cast of teen comics who food employees of Good Sponge Harris and Dina performed in different Burger. Alexander. Created by comedy sketches and a Sophomore Sarah Steve Slavkin, the show musical guest, usually a big Walters remembers her evolved as the group spent name pop star of the day. love for All That. their time harassing the Created by Brian Robbins, “I loved Repairman. I camp counselor, Kevin All That was a huge suc- remember how he always Hand Tossed Traditional Alabama ‘Ug’ Lee. cess. It began airing in used to come on and go, Senior Lauren Leland 1994 and is still playing to- ‘Repairman man man!’ I’d Style Pizza, Calzones, and Salads thinks Nickelodeon hit its day, though with a different, run around my house say- peak with Salute Your younger and more inexpe- ing that all the time,” Shorts. rienced cast. When it Walters said. “We need to bring back started, however, the show Junior Lauren Johns Salute Your Shorts be- was at the top. Featuring obsessed over All That. cause it was a classic,” humorous teens like Lori “I watched All That re- Leland said. “No show has Beth Denberg, Kenan Th- ligiously. If anyone got in been that good since.” ompson and Amanda front of the TV during All All That Bynes, the show had many That, I beat them up,” A sort of Saturday repeating characters in- Johns said. December Features Page 8 New goals for the new year

By AnnaLaura Rehwinkel “I want to learn how to act “Get better than an ‘F’ on High Life Features Writer “Concentrate on one thing like I care,”- freshman Will my world history AP Doxee at a time, instead of tests,” -sophomores December is a busy month— a spreading myself thin,” - Charlotte Murrell and month filled with holiday shop- “Learn Hebrew,” -sophomore junior Christine Kessler ping, family vacations, and mid- Samantha Novey Handley Champion “God told me to stop term exams. It’s a hectic way to “I want to stop picking my “Get more gigs,” - eating candy cold end the year, but after the holiday nose religiously,”- sophomore sophomore Tissa Khosla turkey. So I guess I’m break, students come back re- Jeff Naftzinger going to try to limit freshed, with new hope and opti- my candy intake,” mism for the coming year. “My New Year’s resolution “Eat healthier, exercise more. The usual stuff,” - senior Elizabeth However, in order to fully re- is to be able to correctly Chambers assess themselves and reflect on pronounce ‘gefilte fish’” - sophomore Molly Bryan said. the past year, students need to senior Julia Luongo “Clean out my room. Get come up with a set of goals and “End world hunger,” - “Go to sleep earlier,” rid of old clothes and resolutions to ensure that the New sophomore John Frank junior Rachael Lewis magazines,” – junior Year will be even better than the said Tessa Kleck last. “ Make more time for “Focus on my grades friends I don’t see very The High Life talked to a vari- more,” - junior Katie “I don’t make New Years often,”- sophomore ety of Leon students about what Hendrix resolutions. I never Maggie they want to accomplish in the have and I probably coming year. Some of the quotes “Drink more water,” “Go to more school never will,” - freshman are funny and irreverent; others are - sophomore John Henry events,” - junior Alena Geringer serious and focused. Graves Elizabeth Navarro The most wanted holiday gifts

By Julia Clarke “I love my digital camera because more. People who need them by High Life Editorial Editor it’s great to be able to document the Christmas have to pay an additional crazy things you do with friends,” jun- few hundred dollars. Looks like Santa is going to have to ior M.C. Strickland said. “It’s also Senior Lauren Bryant knows about stock up on technological gadgets if fun to put them on your MySpace so the frenzy for XBox360s. he wants happy recepiants this year. anyone can look at them.” “I’ve heard crazy stories of people Ipods, flatscreen televisions, digital Laptop computers are also a popu- waiting in line for more than six hours cameras, laptop computers and lar item. These, too, are not cheap and still not getting [an XBox360],” XBox360s are five of the top gifts in toys: they can be priced at over Bryant said. high demand this holiday season. $1000. Senior Thomas Doxsee wants one Junior Michael Ash doesn’t think However, some students aren’t badly. “I don’t know the difference be- gadgets should be “it” this year. looking forward to getting a laptop. tween a stick shift and a joy stick,” “Emerson said the greatest gift is a Senior Lauren Leland, for example, Doxsee said, “but I still really want spiritual gift, like a letter to a friend,” isn’t asking for one. one.” Ash said. “I’d rather have a digital camera Despite all the hype about The ipod, depending on which one The new XBox 360 is a huge hit than a laptop,” Leland said. electronical devices, some students you buy, can store music, videos and with teens as well as adults. Perhaps the most wanted item this maintain that they want other gifts this pictures. It is perhaps the most uni- These tiny tune-holders can cer- holiday season is the infamous year. versally coveted item because of its tainly create a dent in the bank account: XBox360. It costs about $400, with “Most people are asking for some mulitiple uses. they range from $99 to $399. That’s the controller coming to $45. This item kind of gagdet,” senior Abie Bigham “I want an ipod,” junior Lane Turkle why senior Rebecca Beitsch doesn’t is in such high demand that some stores said, “but this year, I’m asking for a said bluntly. want one. don’t even have them in stock any- pony.” “I don’t want an ipod because I can’t afford one,” Beitsch said. Flatscreen televisions aren’t too cheap either. At Best Buy, the regular price for the Samsung 40 inch digital cabel-ready flatscreen is $3,099.99. And that’s not including tax. Freshman Amy Clary wouldn’t mind getting a flatscreen this year. “Flatscreen TVs rock,” she said. Digital cameras are also a must- have this season. These memory mak- ers cost about $100 to $500. The more features you want, the more money you fork over to the cashier. Photo from cannon.com The new iPod with a colorscreen. December Page 9 Winter Rage Coach Rice: a man of great intensity By Chris Reber program, ultimately leading Florida High to the High Life Sports Writer secitional playoffs. His wife, Debi Rice, heard about a head coach- The Leon Lions boys soccer team has always ing vacancy at Leon during his tenure at Florida High. had a history of greatness. Debi Rice then signed Allan Rice up for a Since winning the state championship in 1988, coaching interview, but kept it a secret from him. Leon has returned to the Final Four nine times. Allan Rice had just gotten done playing soc- What’s more, the Lions have won 16 district titles cer, and came home to take a shower, when his wife during their storied history. Being the head coach at told him he had an interview. a school with expectations this high is a rough job. He showed up for the coaching interview with So just who is the man behind the scenes of a t-shirt, blue jeans and sandals on. Everyone else one of Leon’s best sport programs? Allan Rice. He’s at the interview was wearing a coat and tie. been in the coaching business for 21 years. “I thought surely I wouldn’t get the job,” Rice Rice played college soccer at Lock Haven Uni- said. “The (athletic director) was there, along with versity and started as a right wing fullback from his two assistant principals, the ex-coach and four or sophomore through senior years. five parents.” After college, Rice went to try out for the But he did get the job and he’s never looked Tampa Bay Rowdies, a professional team, but he back. tore his ACL and meniscus. Coach Rice considers himself to be an old- Rice then decided it was time to become a fashioned coach. teacher. After undergoing his fifth knee surgery, he “I like high intensity and I don’t baby kids,” went to to finish up his Rice said. schooling. Photo by Caitlin Gillmore Senior midfielder Pat Manderfield, a team cap- Rice taught at many schools before going to tain, agrees. Florida High to become an assistant coach. It wasn’t Coach Rice strikes one of his typically pensive poses during a recent home game. long before the head coaching job was his. He Continued on page 12 coached there for six years and established a strong Coach Sam Striplin: king of the court

By Jared Casey under his belt. High Life Sports Writer Striplin has led Leon’s varsity basketball team to three district Walking into a typical bas- championships and the Lions have ketball game, cheers can be heard gone to the playoffs eight times. off to the side from the cheerlead- Several years ago, one of his ers, as the crowd enthusiastically players, Akini Atkins, was given a follows along. scholarship by the University of However, this is not the case Alabama. Akini, a center, was re- for a Leon basketball game. cruited by schools throughout the Varsity coach Sam Striplin South. easily dominates the noise while Striplin played basketball as directing his team. a two-guard at Dothan High Striplin was born in Dothan, School. Alabama. He grew up with bas- Later, he played collegiately ketball surrounding his entire life. at Chipola, where he was coached His dad coached basketball by Milton Johnson, who won over Photo by Holly Johnson for 25 years and Striplin spent 600 wins during his career. Coach Striplin awaits the outcome of the game against John Paul II. much of his youth moving from Striplin considers Johnson a leg- sons during his first few years at state to state as his father changed as an intense head basketball coach end. Leon. jobs frequently. at Leon. While in college, Striplin When Striplin looks at play- Even his uncle and his brother “Coaches are intense because considered coaching basketball ers to pick for his team, he looks coached basketball and now they want the kids to play hard,” instead of playing. for the ones that will work hard. Striplin is following in all their Striplin said. “When you’re younger, you Striplin is now leading a team footsteps. After working as an assistant like to play more, but when I got a that has mostly juniors on the ros- This 2005-2006 season is coach, Striplin came to Leon, en- little bit older, I realized that I ter. Striplin’s 11th year coaching at tering at a great point in Leon bas- wanted to coach,” Striplin said. He is glad to see the young Leon. and he came into this ketball history. Striplin started as an assistant talent operating well and to see the seaosn with more than 200 wins He had many of his best sea- coach at Maclay. He is now known seniors acting as leaders. December Sports Page 10 Winter sports bring the heat

By Tom Postma Davey Beck leads all offensive High Life Assistant Sports Editor players with nine goals this season. The Lions are currently 8-3-1 fol- The winter sports teams at Leon are lowing a 1-0 win over Mosely High battling the cold weather by heating up School. the competition and tangling with an- Boys Basketball nual powerhouses. The boys basketball team began its Boys Soccer season with pre-season wins over Boys soccer has enjoyed a hot start Florida High and Wakulla County. to its season as they had success in Junior Taylor Sexton and senior Jeff their pre-season kick off at Lincoln Baker have led the Lion’s scoring at- High School. The Lions won both of tack thus far this season. its games, beating Lincoln and Chiles. Starting small forward., Josh The boys then traveled south, where Hoffman, a senior, suffered a concus- they played St. Thomas Aquinas, the sion in the first pre-season game Photo by Holly Johnson defending state champions, and Coral against Florida High. Although only Junior Nick Brinson clears the ball away out of the defensive half. Springs. The Lions impressed many by three players return from last year’s tying St. Thomas 1-1, but then fatigue team (Hoffman transferred from set in as they suffered a disappointing ), Hoffman thinks suc- 3-2 loss to Coral Springs. cess could be in the Lions future. “We have the skill to go far, but if “We are a young, inexperienced we want to be a serious threat, we need team this year,” Hoffman said. “But we to pick up the intensity,” junior Matt have a lot of talent and potential, so if Cade said. we get it all together and everyone Junior Nick Brinson anchors a de- plays to their ability, we can be very, fense that is one to boast about. very good. “I think we have the ability to be The Lions Jeff Baker is currently the state champs this year,” Brinson said. second leading scorer in the Big Bend. “We just have to find a way for the Leon suffered a heart breaking 92- offense to be more productive.” 90 loss to Godby High School. Junior Clayton Hinson is part of the Godby’s Charles Ginnie took the offense that has not been as produc- inbounds pass from half court and made tive as most expected. Hinson, like a lay-up at the buzzer to win the game. many others, commented that although “I think the team’s playing pretty the Lions offense is currently struggling, good right now,” Sexton said. “I think the team still has a lot of potential. we could get a lot better as the season Heralded German prodigy Yannic goes on.” Maiwald has not lived up to the hype he had when he arrived as he has only scored four goals all season. Photo by Holly Johnson Round-up continued on page 12 Junior Taylor Sexton is in open position to sink a ball in the hoop. Jeff Baker looks to lead Lions to Districts

By Joy Weaver 25 points. basketball since he was 10 High Life Sports Writer Losing eight seniors, includ- years old and also runs track. ing five starters from last years Baker plays forward and his Leon High’s boys basket- team has led to what some goal for this year is to win as ball team has good reasons for may consider a rebuilding sea- many games as last year. wanting to be district champs. son. Hoffman, a senior, will also Since only winning three titles But this year will have to be be starting alongside Baker from 2001, Coach Sam Baker’s year. He’s the only this year. These two have plans Striplin and his team are hop- player to return with starting to make this a season to re- ing for a great season. experience. Striplin remarks member. At the Tip-Off Tournament, that Baker takes role as being Darrien Gibson is also hop- which was held on Nov.18, a leader. That’s why he chose ing to be a big help for Coach the boys defeated Florida him to stand as team captain. Striplin. High, 57-45. Taylor Sexton “He’s a great vocal leader,” “He’s one of my great ball had 16 points, Jeff Baker Striplin said. handlers,” Striplin said. added 10 points, and Josh Bakeradmits that he has not Gibson stands as a starting Hoffman had six pointsts. The decided on where he wants to sophomore and still has many boys also defeated Wakulla, go to school after he gradu- more years to better his game. 44-36. ates, but would not mind play- Lincoln, Chiles, Mosley, The team stands at 1-4, in- ing for a college. He wants to and Rutherford are the boys cluding loses to the Godby major in Marine Biology district for this year. With a Cougars 92-90 and Mosley “I love water and fish. Big tough district to face, they’re Photo by Caitlin Gillmore 64-57. fish at that,” he said with a hoping to come out strong. Senior Jeff Baker is the only returning player on the Against Godby, Sexton laugh. “Our number one goal is to boys varsity basketball team with any starting had 27 points, and Baker had Baker has been playing win district,” Striplin said. experience. December Sports Page 11 Clark, Epting Susanna Zorn: sophomore standout training hard By: Kate Small person to be around. for marathon High Life Sports Writer “I’m really shy at first, but once you get to know me, I’m No matter what sport it is, really crazy,” Zorn said. Susanna Zorn owns the field. Zorn holds no.19 on the soc- Zorn, a sophomore, has cer team, the same as her played soccer for 10 years. brother, Austin Zorn, when he She played flag football as a played soccer at Leon. freshman at Leon, and hopes “She’s smart, talented and to play this year as well. really knows the game,” Anna Zorn,15, is now in her sec- Laura Rewhinkle, a soccer By Sam Hollister ond year as a varsity soccer teammate, said. High Life Sports Editor player. She has also been in- When playing soccer, Zorn volved in traveling soccer for said she enjoys scoring the This January, two of Leon’s seven years now. most and just being able to be faculty members will arrive in Zorn plays on offense as a a part of and work together Orlando to compete in the forward and led in scoring last with a well-rounded team. The Walt Disney World Marathon. season. The Most Valuable Of- inspiration for playing sports Aaron Clark and Billy fensive player award was also comes from family and friends Epting have been training for presented to Zorn last year. that are very supportive. As a freshmen, she made Zorn not only performs well the past several months to run the second All-Big Bend team on the field, but maintains a 4.0 in the 26.2 mile circuit around for soccer. grade point average and has Disney World. Zorn also made the first All- never received a C on her re- It will be the first full mara- Big Bend team for flag foot- port card. She said that this Photo by Holly Johnson thon for both Clark and Epting, ball, with the team making the often causes problems be- Susanna Zorn is one of the best sophomore athletes, no although Epting has run the top eight in the state. She tween practice and staying up matter what the field is. Disney World Half-Marathon played wide receiver, where late to finish homework. she wore no.16, simply because Zorn, a “hard core” Florida three times. three years and looks forward As for this year, Zorn hopes that’s the number Coach Rocky State University fan, enjoys to continuing to play through- to score over 30 goals and help The run, which annually at- Hanna gave her. skim boarding and hanging out out high school. take the soccer team to state. tracts up to 25,000 people, “We really like to win,” with friends. She also attends In college, Zorn wants to at- begins at 6 a.m. on Jan. 8. Chelsea Parmer, a close friend church at Trinity United Meth- tend the University of Georgia, “We have to be there at and teammate said. odist. Duke or FSU. She hopes to 4:30 (a.m.),” Clark said. “And Zorn is described as very When attending Raa Middle play soccer and wants to ma- it’s a $100 entry fee. We’re competitive, uplifting, and a fun School, Zorn played soccer all jor in Biology. actually paying to hurt our- selves.” Clark has been running 40 RAGE Athlete of the Month to 50 miles a week in prepa- ration for the marathon, includ- Continued from page 9 ing a nine mile run from his By Sam Hollister “There’s definitely no time to High Life Sports Editor house to Leon’s campus. whine during practice,” “It is hard to find time to Manderfield said. run,” Clark said. “A 12 or 14 “He never lets you think mile run takes a few hours, so you’re the best.There’s no indi- I have to make time on the viduals, he keeps it a team weekends.” game,” senior goalkeeper Tho- Epting, who has been a mas Guthrie said. regular runner since his high Rice said there is a method school days, runs 20 to 25 behind his madness. miles a week, including a long “You have to scream and yell run on the weekends. to get them mentally tough. If As for their reasons for run- they can survive the intense prac- ning in the marathon, their mo- tices, they won’t have a prob- tives are similar. lem in the game.” “I’m doing it for the chal- Although Rice’s coaching is lenge,” Clark said. “It’s not hardcore during practices, he has Photo by Caitlin Gillmore something that a lot of people a different approach for the Coach Rice stands on the can do. It’s also just a way to games. Rice says he is always sidelines in a silent reage at stay in shape.” more calm. a recent home game. Epting is also using running “I’m frickin’ nervous,” Rice you’re toast.” as a way to stay in shape, and said. “I hate games. I always get “I’ve heard locker room hor- is attracted to the challenge of so uptight. Practices are much ror stories from many Leon play- less stressful.” ers about how intense he will get running 26.2 miles straight. Photo by Holly Johnson The run is set up so that the Rice doesn’t expect to lighten at half time of some games,” Junior Davey Beck has been named athlete of runners must reach a certain his coaching. Nick Wilde, a senior soccer player at Rickards, said. “Rice the month by the sports staff of the High Life. The distance in a certain amount of “When you have a reputation is considered the craziest coach 5’11’’Beck is one of many stellar athletes on the time. This way, parts of the like the Lions do, you have to in Leon County. He is a great Lions soccer team. Beck’s name has highlighted park can be opened up as the come to play every night,” Rice soccer coach though. After all, Big Bend leader boards. His stats alone say marathon is completed. said. “Every- one is always gunning for you, he is the head coach at Leon. enough about his game. Beck has nine goals in 12 cause you’re Leon. You had bet- To have a program that good, games as of Dec. 8. Continued on page 12 ter bring the intensity or else he must be doing something right.” December Sports Page 12

Photos by Jenny Lieb The Leon boys soccer team, in action here against Mosley, has experienced its share of ups and downs through the early portion of the season. Round-up Marathon Continued from page 10 Continued from page 11 The Lions are currently 1-4 follow- for a winning season,” Rowland “For example, if you don’t make biking event, will be held in Destin. ing a loss to FAMU High School. said. it to Cinderella’s Castle by a cer- Clark plans on starting training Girls Soccer In a recent road trip, the lady Li- tain time, they don’t even let you with the swim team to prepare. The girls’ soccer team has begun to ons split games as they lost 4-0 to finish,” Clark said. “My goals this Epting hopes to run in the Ma- follow up last year’s successful season district rival Rutherford High School year begin with finishing the mara- rine Corps Marathon in Washing- by compiling an 9-3-2 ( 4-1in the dis- and defeated Mosely High School thon. If I can do that, I want to try ton D.C. next October. Other than trict) record on the season.. 4-3. and finish it within five hours.” that, he has no plans for another Junior Courtney Manders was split- Girls Basketball As for Epting, he also hopes to marathon. ting time in goal with senior Sara Noel Although the Lady Lions have finish within five hours. “I don’t think I’m going to make Childers but she has taken over the job compiled record of 1-4, it’s only a Although this is his first mara- a hobby out of it,” Epting said. for good as Childers recently left the matter of time before things begin thon, Clark has plans to run a “After all that pain and suffer- team. to turn around. triathlon in August. The triathlon, ing, we get a Mickey Mouse medal The Lions offensive attack has been The Lady Lions have a lot to which is a running, swimming and if we finish,” Clark said. led by the sophomore dynamic duo of compensate for as they have to fill Susanna Zorn and Chelsea Parmer. gaps left by many seniors, including Zorn has amazed many with her scor- Shawn Goff and Amber Hall, who ing ability, especially by scoring four both signed division one scholar- goals in one game. ships. Parmer assisted on three of the goals. Freshman Whitney Houston has Parmer has not only been used on of- been the most consistent point pro- fense, but has also been placed in goal ducer as she has been a dominant at certain times. force in the post. In a recent tournament, the Lady Li- Ashley Williams, one of the few ons head coach J.D. Crum placed seniors on the team, believes that Parmer in goal for penalty kicks. the Lions are just starting to come “Coach put her in goal because when around. it comes to blocking a penalty kick, she’s “The season is off to a great a freak,” junior Cara Rowland said. “She start,” Williams said. “The team is really goes all out to block the shot and really starting to click and we should doesn’t even care if her face drags be really successful as the season across the ground.” progresses.” Despite the fact that the Lady Lions Houston recently had 20 points had to replace a head coach and a hand- in a 54-49 win over district rival Lin- ful of seniors, Rowland thinks that the coln High School. Photo by Caitlin Gillmore team will be fine. The girls recently lost to North Coach Clark (left) is one of Leon’s most athletic teachers on and off duty “We went through a lot of changes Florida Christian High School. as a coach. He has been the baseball coach for Leon for awhile. since last season, but I think we’re han- Epting (right) is the Assistant Dean of Attendance here at Leon dling them well and we have potential