The First Decade of the 2000s - 2000-2010

It was the new millennium and ZHS anticipated it with the remainder of the country as a new era. With all the hope and excitement of beginning a new century, the first new century for ZHS to have been inaugurated—this was a time of celebration. The U.S. was responding to the prediction made by the technology gurus that the computer systems of which we had now become so dependent, would malfunction at the strike of midnight in 2000. This did not occur and all technology was in tack at ZHS and most of the rest of the country. It was an indication of the changes that had come about in information and education.

The decade of 2000-2010 in the United States was marked by September 11th. Not unlike the era of the 1940s or the era of the 1960s which were marked by life-altering events in which students remarked that they remembered “where they were” when they heard the news of John Kennedy’s assassination or the bombing of Pearl Harbor, so too in 2001, a generation of students remembered their disbelief at the events of the attack on the World Trade Center in New York City. The event was vividly etched in their memories perhaps because of the prevalence of technology. With a television network within the school, students watched this monumental tragedy in their classroom, unlike the other historical moments in which they were informed by their teachers or perhaps an announcement on the intercom.

The events of this distressing and tumultuous decade bound ZHS students together in many ways. Bulldogs learned that 9-11 ended the American sense of insulated safety in the world. They learned that when hurricanes devastate, folks can help and when a tsunami hits, teens care and act. In short ZHS, like the rest of the country woke up to a global generation, immersed in technology and keenly aware that they were not the center of the universe. 9-11 did bring a new schizophrenic-type awareness of human frailty and resulted to some extent in a heightened level of tolerance and understanding. The Tampa Tribune on May 22, 2005, said:

The Camp Anytown Project, funded by the National Conference for Community and Justice, trained a yearly group of ZHS students on tolerance and understanding. Lasting from 2000 throughout the decade, this was a valuable resource.

ZHS was impacted by the Iraq War. Several ZHS alums were war heroes. Sean Woods, 1998 ZHS football player, who enlisted a month before 9-11, was celebrated with a community party upon his return in 2004. Classmates, Mary Katherine Mason and Andrew Prilliman from the class of 2001, along with Aaron Guynn from the class of 2000, served together in areas of Iraq. Mary Katherine was a driver in Iraq and injured in the line of duty. Having been a local sports star at ZHS during her time as a student, Mary Katherine was the local hero/role model. Steven Orosz, President of ZHS Class of 2006, and Ryan Orosz, President of the Class of 2005, both served in Iraq.

A stellar example of service and community involvement was the 2005 donation of $200,000 from 1930’s ZHS graduate, Owen Gall, who set-up a scholarship fund. The Zephyrhills City Councilwoman, Cathi Compton, worked with the ZHS Government teacher, Bob Hatfield, to organize the first Zephyrhills City Council in 2001. Six students served and made presentations to the English classes and held a school forum to teach about local government (Chris Black, Vanessa Bowman, Jennifer Kriebel, Ashley Parsons, Maria Risavalto, and Mamie Wise). This innovation may have set the stage for a star of the decade, Danny Burgess, to emerge. A 2004 ZHS graduate, Danny ran for City Council just a few months after graduating and walloped the middle-aged incumbent. His platform was based to a large extent on youth involvement.

In the history of ZHS, only four ZHS students have been named Pasco County Student of the year and two of these were in the decade with Kristin Benedeni in 2002 and Mamie Wise in 2001. Mamie was the state president of 4-H, the largest youth organization in the state during her senior year and brought a great deal of acclaim to the county with her national service on the national technology corps and Colin Powell’s America’s Promise Team. Receiving the leadership award for her class at graduation, Mamie attended a youth service session in the oval office, gave service awards to the National Secretary of Agriculture and the then Secretary of State, Colin Powell in 2000 and presented a proclamation in Tallahassee directly to Governor Bush and Governor Crist.

Gerri Painter became ZHS Principal in November of 2004. Ms. Painter was the first ZHS female principal when she took over for James T. Davis when he was transferred to James Irvin Educational Center in Dade City. Ms. Painter was one of many woman pioneers in Zephyrhills administration in Zephyrhills however—Mrs. Bessie Barefield, principal of the Zephyrhills Black School at Krusen, holds that distinction of being the first female principal in Zephyrhills, and the date was 1949. Other women principals in the community included Jeannette McClelland Lovelace at West Zephyrhills in 1987, Fran McCrimmon who opened Chester Taylor Elementary in 1997; Madonna Wise at West Zephyrhills in 1997 (a former ZHS teacher); Emily Keene at West Zephyrhills in 2001; Eva Hunsberger at Chester Taylor in 2004 and Kimberly Poe at Woodland in 2005. Female leaders at ZHS also go back to the very first Assistant Principal of the school, Annie Gill in 1935. Jean Benham in the 1970s and Terry Turner who served as Assistant Principal beginning in 1981 (and served for over 20 years) impacted the school and community.

In curriculum, rigor was the name of the game. Advanced Placement and Dual Enrollment allowed students innumerable opportunities. Beginning in 1998, the FCAT test started in the State of Florida as a basis for accountability and particularly in this decade, FCAT-driven curriculum was the norm. Tenth graders had to pass the FCAT to graduate and this necessitated the teaching of the Sunshine State Standards. College-admission standards were also increasing each year, so honor students were stressed to achieve, achieve, achieve.

A new band director, Russell Schmidt, maintained the strong ZHS band tradition with new millennium flare. In 2003, he took the ZHS band to the Smokey Mountain Music Festival in Gatlinburg, Tennessee. Jazz and Rock and Roll seem to be more greatly infused into the ZHS music of this decade. Some musical stars are featured in the news archives. Anna Merlack excelled with her oboe and had the opportunity to play with the Tampa Bay Youth Orchestra at Carnegie Hall. One of her selections was the William Tell Overture, and surely Zephyrhills could feel the triumphant beats of this music in their very collective soul—to have a ZHS student on this famous stage. Kristi Beinhauer was also a phenomenal opera protégé in 2002 and performed at the Tampa Bay Performing Arts and quite extensively locally.

There were quirky facts of the decade. One in 2004 stands out—the prom featured ZHS couple, Desiree D’Allesandro and date, Jon David, who created their prom gown and tux from duct tape as part of a national scholarship contest entitled, Stuck on Prom, and debuted at the prom and in the contest as finalists.

ZHS Sports continued to thrive. Two news stories stand-out to the author. The first is the 2000 State Baseball Championship game—the one in which Baseball America High School placed ZHS in the top 25 teams nationally—the first national ranking for a Pasco County baseball team. This team had a school record of 49 home runs and won 23 of their 24 games. It was an historic season for the community for their baseball team to be in the country’s top 25 and 2nd in the state. Danny Wardell, Junior outfielder was a stand-out and team member’s were Brad Howard, Mike Recine, Russell Hartley, John McClellan, Brooks Boyette, Jossie Aponte, Tyson Prickett, Jose Cuevas, Mike Stepp, Jeremy Farr, Danny Wardell, Michael Pittman, Jeremy Hinsz, Brett Cimorelli, Graham Taylor and Kyle Watson.

The second dominant item is the longevity and resourcefulness of Coach Tom Fisher. Not without controversy in years past, Tom Fisher had the stamina and character to have lasted  19 years as head football coach, the longest tenure of any coach, not withstanding patriarch, Johnny Clements. The Tampa Tribune put it eloquently and succinctly when reporter Chris Auman said on November 22, 2002:

Noteworthy football teams of the decade included the 2002 team that had a 10-2 season with tight-end, Paul Maxwell, and stars, James Adamo, Jamen Monbarren, Justin Cobb, and Derek Wallace. Fisher said himself of this team, “In 59 seasons of Bulldog Football, this group and their accomplishments will go down in history.”

The 2007 ZHS football team won the district championship. Sedderick Cunningham of the 2006 football team almost led a class 3A team to an undefeated regular season.

Other decade athletes that populate the news archives include Joe Daffau who in 2004 struck out 131 in 72 innings and of which veteran baseball coach, Bruce Cimorelli, stated, “was the best pitcher I ever coached.”

A strong boy’s golf team under Coach Bob Hatfield was dominant in 2000. Chris Black averaged 36 and his teammates, A.J. Blackstone, Kyle Pierson, and Mark Dunn were strong. The state qualifier from the previous year had been injured and limited their state contention.

Dee Dee Castro made a name for herself in Soccer. The 1999 Girls Volleyball Team was in the State final Four with the talent of Liz Torres, Ashley Tunker, Tracy Negoshian, Andrea Wardell, and Morgan Mander.

HIGHLIGHTS OF 2008

Zephyrhills High School graduate Marcus Mathes was killed in Iraq in 2008. Mathes, 26, a native of Zephyrhills, Florida, joined the Army in March 2005.

He completed basic training at Fort Sill, Oklahoma, and advanced individual training at Fort Bliss, Texas, before being assigned to Fort Polk in July 2005.

Mathes’ awards and decorations include the Purple Heart, Army Commendation Medal, Iraq Campaign Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Humanitarian Service Medal, NATO Medal and the Combat Action Badge.

Graduation is scheduled June 5th at the Lakeland Civic Center. This will be the first time since the 1950s when a graduation takes place off school campus. Valedictorian is Luke Aaron Thomas and Salutatorian is Kristen “Abbi” Chaffin. Senior notables are: Best Smile: Tyler Shea & Samantha Shoulder; Thrill Seekers: Jack Patterson & Alyssa Stewart; Most Likely to Become President: Robbie Kunkle & Kaylee Willis; Most Talented: Ben Cotrell & Alicia Hoyle; Most Athletic: Chris Henry & Jessica Davis; Most Likely to Succeed: Luke Thomas & Kristen Arnold; Most Likely to Lend a Helping Hand: Zeke Freirmuth & Stephanie Bahr; School Spirit: Alicia O’Donnell & Nick Burgess; Class Clown: Andy Patrias & Haven Mills; Most Likely to Be Famous: Jason Badia & Anya Brunner; Outspoken: Ben Stevens & Christina Wright; Best All Around: Ryan Alderman & Kristie Crowe; Best Friends: Abbie Chaffin & Carol Cuthbertson: Class Couple Miranda Burns & Myranda Vanderlyke.

Special Awards To Marotta, Burgess, Myers, Langenstein, Reakes & Toal

Weedsport, NY – March 28, 2008 – By Tom Skibinski, DIRTcar Racing NorthEast PR Director

Popular Floridian Wayne Reutimann, was inducted into the Northeast Modified Hall of Fame & Classic Car Museum on Memorial Day Weekend 2008. This driving great add his name to a growing list of Modified legends that was started in 1992 when the Hall of Fame was officially christened on the Cayuga County Fairgrounds in Weedsport, New York.

The 2008 Induction Ceremonies took place Sunday, May 25 at 2 p.m. in the NE Hall of Fame & Classic Car Museum. The evening race program at Cayuga County Fair Speedway was highlighted by the Hall of Fame 76, the third scheduled points event in the Advance Auto Parts Super DIRTcar Series for Big-Block Modifieds.

Still active today racing down in the Sunshine State as well as following the budding career of his son Wayne Jr., Reutimann, 63, followed in his older Buzzie’s tire tracks to carve his own niche in the Northeast Modified record book. Although competing up north for a just a handful of seasons, the Zephyrhills, Florida pilot made his mark at nearly every track he visited, including Orange County Fair Speedway, Nazareth Raceway, East Windsor Speedway and the since razed Reading Fairgrounds. He steered the beautiful Blair #3 and renowned Ritter & Kleintop #666 Big-Blocks, in between capturing the prestigious Eastern States 200 Championship and track points title at Orange County in 1975 aboard Richard Marinelli’s potent no. M1 machine.

Once, she was a basketball star, the all-around leading scorer in her county (Pasco), a player so smooth and efficient that she earned a nickname-“The Dream.” Once she could have followed the bouncing ball into college prominence. Once, plenty of people were convinced about her future.

Jeanine Boyd Byers made an unusual decision. In a society where sports performance often serves as currency, she gave up competitive athletics to concentrate on academics. Twenty years ago, with a striking 6 foot-3 presence, she nervously stood at a podium in the Zephyrhills High School gymnasium delivering her valedictory address. She spoke about finding your passion, exploring options. It was a pep talk to the class of 1988.

Twenty years later, Myers, 37, has lived that message. But even while graduating into a world of possibilities, could she have imagined all of this? She is married with three children. She’s a college mathematics professor who is pursuing her doctorate. She’s a professional musician. Four years ago, she embarked on a humanitarian mission to a tiny South African village, experiencing the AIDS epidemic first-hand, witnessing a steady stream of funerals, forever altering her perspective.

Her older brother, who had struggled with a debilitating disease for nearly 15 years, was withering near death last summer. Myers gave him new life by donating one of her kidneys. When asked, she didn’t hesitate.

Now David Boyd is healthy, running three miles each morning, promoted to a new job, relishing every moment.

“How can winning a basketball game compare to that?” Myers said. “One of the things I remember from basketball was pushing through the fatigue, pushing through the pain. Don’t let your feelings dictate your actions. You’ve got to be committed. You do what you have to do.

“Life is sort of like that. Life just happens. On your graduation night, you’re filled with all these hopes and dreams. You’re not exactly sure what’s ahead, but it’s exciting. Then off you go.”

Finding Her Voice: Off you go. In a way, Myers was relieved. She wasn’t comfortable being a focal point. When you are a sophomore starter on the best team in Zephyrhills history, when you score 1,755 career points, when you are the tallest girl in school, it’s difficult to go unnoticed.

“Basketball is not her whole life, not should it be,” Zephyrhills coach Ernie Pittman said at the time. “Jeanine has already learned how to succeed. Now she’ll try it at a different place, at a different level.”

Slowly, Myers found her voice-through her drive in the classroom. She had a 3.85 grade-point average at Baylor University, finishing 72nd in a class of 2,000 seniors. Eventually it wasn’t so scary to stand before an audience, not in a classroom when she was explaining math theory to her students.

Through music. She plays the piano and organ, often accompanying choirs on national tours. Through her family, she met Matt Myers during a church camp trip to North Carolina while they were both graduate students at Clemson University. They were married 15 years ago, and she followed him throughout the South, for his educational advancement and career moves. For a time, she was a stay-at-home mother, raising Rachel (12), Ben (10) and Anna (7).

“Jeanine is obviously a talented person, whether it’s basketball, music or teaching,” said Matt Myers, associate professor of mathematics at the University of the Ozarks in Clarksville, Arkansas, where the family has lived since 2002. But primarily she is someone who does things for others. She will deny herself things to help her friends and family.

Life’s True Meaning: Myers grew up with four older brothers, an arrangement she says helped toughen her for basketball, In turn, her brothers were protective of her. Last summer, those roles were reversed. In 1993, David Boyd (four years older than Jeanine) was diagnosed with a slowly progressive kidney disease. By last year, his kidney function had regressed to a critical 11 percent. He needed a transplant and Myers had been cleared as a perfect match. Nothing was guaranteed. Would his body reject the new kidney? Would her health be affected?

One year later, things could not be better. I haven’t felt this good since I was a teenage,” said David Boyd, a computer engineer in Orlando. “I think my sister is a hero. Yes, I do. “She gave me a second chance. She gave me a precious gift.” Myers more prone to logic and analytical thinking, will allow that life’s most meaningful moments are about relationships. She sensed that in 1988. Now she knows it for sure.

She’ll never know what might have happened, had she accepted a basketball scholarship. Her children have seen her scrapbook, sometimes marveling at the publicity their mother once received for playing a game. Some of Myers’ students ask her to join their intramural teams. Prodded. Myers acknowledges she can still play a little but, but now it’s recreating and exercise. How good could she have become? Her answer: It doesn’t matter.

Do I regret the decision to stop playing basketball? Myers said, “Sometimes, I’ll watch a game and see something like the WNBA and I’ll think, Hmmm, What if….”

But truly, I think I always knew there was more to life. And what I have in my life right now, I wouldn’t trade it for the world.” Once, she was nicknamed “The Dream.” Now she is simply living it!”

He has landed a full ride at an Ivy League school: the University of Pennsylvania. Some might say Luke Thomas faces a tough road ahead, but he already knows the meaning of a hard day's work. Besides attending Zephyrhills High and Pasco-Hernando Community College, Luke puts in 30 to 35 hours a week as an assistant manager and detailer at Ben's Car Wash on Gall Boulevard.

"It's hard juggling all that," said Luke, adding that he has to punch out at 6 p.m. twice a week and head straight to classes at PHCC. "I pay for all my stuff-car insurance, clothes, cell phone and gas money. And I'm saving for expenses at college."

Going to the University of Pennsylvania is a dream come true. "It's where I really wanted to go. It has the best business school in the nation."

Luke was determined to get there, working hard at everything while dealing with a crisis at home. About a year ago, his father, Gary, was diagnosed with colon cancer and has been in and out of the hospital ever since with complications. His mother, Colleen, works two jobs to keep things afloat.

So going to Penn comes with some mixed feelings.

"I kind of don't want to be that far away from my dad. But my parents are supportive. They want me to go," Luke said. "This has definitely been an experience. I guess it's been a way of preparing me for life. What I have in front of me is probably easier than what I have right now."

Zephyrhills' salutatorian, Abbi Chaffin, got a taste of missionary work a few years ago. That and the fact that she has wanted to be a doctor "ever since I was little" have propelled her.

Abbi has ventured to Anderson, S.C., Jonesboro Beach, Ga., and Fort Walton Beach with other members of First Baptist Church of Wesley Chapel. This summer she'll do mission work in New Orleans, and in 2009, she's off to Brazil.

Doing construction work and conducting backyard Bible classes for kids in impoverished areas is rewarding, Abbi said.

"Some of these kids don't even realize that there are people out there that care about them," she said. "And the parents — when we go to their houses, they are so amazed that teenagers care. It's great to break that stereotype."

ZHS Valedictorian: Luke Thomas has a weighted GPA of 4.57 and plans to major in business at the University of Pennsylvania with his future career undecided.

Most inspirational person: My mother, Colleen Thomas, because of the strength and integrity she has displayed throughout my father's battle with cancer.

Best advice or quote: "The secret to success is constancy to purpose" — Benjamin Disraeli.

Favorite place on campus: The commons area because it is a place where I can socialize with my peers, thus relieving stresses from my academics.

Favorite book: The Reluctant Fundamentalist by Mohsin Hamid.

Clubs/extracurriculars: National Honor Society, Future Business Leaders of America, Interact Club, Fellowship of Christian Athletes, basketball, golf, work at Ben's Car Wash.

If you could, what would you change about the Pasco County or Florida education system? Produce a test that would more accurately assess a student's academics than the FCAT.

ZHS Salutatorian: Kristin "Abbi" Chaffin has a weighted GPA of 4.46 (weighted) and plans to major in Pre-Med at Oxford/Emory University and eventually become a missionary surgeon in South America.

Most inspirational person/people: My mommy, Lisa Chaffin, and my daddy, Dan Chaffin. Both of them gave up the possibility of having more money in order to help their community and personally raise their five kids. They taught me that people are more important than paychecks.

Best advice or quote: "Who is wise and understanding among you? Let him show it by his good life, by deeds done in humility that comes from wisdom" — James 3:13.

Favorite place on campus: The Bulldog Inn because it allows upperclassmen to congregate and eat together in a cozy restaurant-like environment.

Favorite book: A Prayer for Owen Meany by John Irving.

Clubs/extracurriculars: National Honor Society (president), Interact Club (vice president), Dogo Spanish Music Club, Showstoppers Show Choir, Souled Out Student Minorities Youth Band (captain), teacher's assistant at Wesley Chapel Christian Preschool.

If you could, what would you change about the Pasco County or Florida education system? I wish the Florida education system would incorporate more career training and vocational opportunities for students not planning on attending college rather than focusing on making all students pass the FCAT, a standardized college-preparatory test that some will never need. I believe this will liberate more funding to go toward advanced courses for college-bound students and provide better options for all students. I believe this plan will also reduce the dropout rate immensely.

The Zephyrhills shortstop admits her district tournament plate appearances weren't what she would have liked them to be. Her final at-bat in the Class 4A-District 8 title game against Pasco likely made up for any whiffs or pop-ups she experienced during the four-day tournament.

It was her single to right field that drove in Samantha Crews from third base in the top of the seventh inning, leading to the Bulldogs' 3-2 victory against the Pirates.

"I just wanted to hit it somewhere in the outfield so she could tag up and get home somehow," Davis said. "I didn't want to strike out. I had it in my mind like, 'I can't strike out. I have to hit.' I haven't been hitting too well in the district tournament and I was hoping that my last at-bat would do something." Doing something is an understatement.

The RBI single, which led to the victory, gave Zephyrhills (20-6) its fourth district title in five years. The squad had a three-year streak of district championships (2004-06) before Pasco (23-3) knocked them off last season at Springstead.

"She's had many hits for Zephyrhills High School and I was hoping she had one more," Zephyrhills coach Craig Milburn said. "I hope she's not done, but she's kind of been hot and cold this year. That one hit kind of takes away a lot of the bad at-bats. She's a top-notch player."

The win allows Zephyrhills to stay home, hosting Groveland South Lake (17-5), while Pasco will head east to face Harmony (18-7-1).

Catcher Stephanie Hartman ended the game with a laser throw to first, catching the Pasco runner leaning for the final out of the game.

Considering the circumstances, some catchers may not have made that throw. It was the bottom of the seventh inning; had that throw gone into the outfield and been booted around, Pasco could have either had a runner at third base or a tie game. On top of everything else, Hartman was hit in her throwing hand earlier in the game, which produced soreness and swelling.

None of that deterred Hartman.

"I knew that I could make it and I didn't want to lose," Hartman said. "It's my senior year and I'm not playing anymore. I'm not going to college to play softball.

"I knew she was leaning and she was far enough off. I had confidence in myself and my first baseman Ashley Anderton. Ashley's always been there for me.

"She's amazing."

There were several plays where Anderton had to go up for the throw to first and come down with her foot on the bag Friday night. Had it not been for her solid game at first, the outcome may have been a bit different.

"They're a good ballclub," Milburn said of Pasco. "I'm very proud of our girls to beat them."

HIGHLIGHTS OF 2007

Pasco Senior Scrapbook, 2007, The Pasco Tribune, The Tampa Tribune, May 11, 2007
Zephyrhills High is about to graduate 334 seniors on Friday, May 25 at 7 p.m. in the Activity Center. Valedictorian is: Kristen Beville and Salutatorian is: Josalynn Wireman, while class president is: Josh Fletcher.
Zephyrhills received a $200,000 donation to its scholarship fund from former student, Owen Gall. In that same spirit of philanthropy, students and staff raised $1,700 for the American Cancer Society by participating in the Relay for Life. The football team won the district championship, while six boys from the track team qualified for the state finals. Academically the Algebra II Team placed third in the district math bowl and about $2 million in scholarship money was awarded to seniors. Several students from the Future Business Leaders in America placed at a recent competition. Zephyrhills was given the Golden School Award for its many volunteer hours.

Honors, Fun keystones of Area Celebrations, by Leslie Farrell, Tampa Tribune, May 11, 2007
With almost 3,000 seniors graduating from Pasco County high schools this month, there is a lot to celebrate—and celebrate these seniors will. From trips to Disney World to picnics to a community-sponsored all-night party, Pasco County seniors are living it up.
Students with stamina at Zephyrhills high will appreciate the all-night extravaganza that parents and supporters have put together on graduation night; Project Graduation, an overnight event lasting from 11 p.m.., May 25 to 5 a.m. May 26. “It’s just one last hurrah for them to do together and they really seem to enjoy it,” said parent/former graduate, Vicky Ogilbee Burgess, coordinator.

He Could Be Top Scientist by Paul Catala, Tampa Tribune, September 16, 2007
He's one step closer to becoming recognized as "America's Top Young Scientist of the Year."
Joshua Hammer, a Zephyrhills High School freshman, was notified Tuesday he's one of 40 finalists for the Discovery Channel's "America's Top Young Scientist" title. For the prize, 400 middle school students from 44 states - 37 from Florida - originally were selected. With a focus on the environment and sustainable development, 40 students were chosen from that pool as finalists and will work on teams with Earth's environmental challenges, called Operating Green.
A grand-prize winner will be picked Oct. 21-24 in Washington and will be awarded a $20,000 college scholarship. Hammer will receive $500 and the all-expense paid trip for being a finalist.
According to the Discovery Channel, the contest identifies and honors those who "best demonstrate leadership, teamwork, scientific problem-solving and the ability to be an effective science communicator."
Hammer's research project is on the effect of magnetism on the body's CD4 helper T-cells. He is studying the effects of magnetism on an organism's immune system, specifically the T-helper cell that plays an important role in establishing and maximizing the capabilities of the body's immune system.
Hammer, 14, a member of Zephyrhills High's marching band, said he was coming off the field from band practice when he got the news. "I was kind of grumpy that night and my dad wouldn't tell me who was on the phone," he said Thursday. "I got on the phone and they told me, and I was really excited. I was shocked, and I started dancing around the field."
Hammer leaves for Washington on Oct. 20 and returns to Tampa on Oct. 25.
During the competition, he will have his project judged as well as compete in some team problem-solving exercises. He hopes to become one of the top three winners, who will receive scholarships of $20,000, $10,000 and $5,000, respectively. The recognition came just five days after his uncle, Ken Donovan, founder of The Crusader newspaper, died at 58. Hammer said Donovan was one of the inspirations who fostered his interest in science.

Seniors Ready to Cap High School Experience, St. Petersburg Times, May 25, 2007
Among the many lessons Cassandra Wirth learned throughout her years of education was this one, courtesy of her father:
"Your grades are your paycheck."
Turns out he was right.
Wirth, 18, a member of the Zephyrhills High School Class of 2007, will head to the University of Central Florida in the fall with 75 percent of her tuition paid for through a Florida Bright Futures Scholarship and an additional $500 paid for by a Zephyrhills Chamber of Commerce scholarship.
She also has 20 college credits from Pasco-Hernando Community College through a dual enrollment program that allows high school students to take college classes tuition-free.
"I've been working a lot, and it's paid off," said Wirth, who will join about 270 classmates tonight for the high school's graduation ceremony.
The annual cap-and-gown ritual also will happen either tonight or Saturday at Pasco County's eight other public high schools. Zephyrhills, Gulf, Hudson, Pasco, Ridgewood and River Ridge high schools will have their commencements tonight, either on their campuses or at other venues within their communities. On Saturday, Land O' Lakes, Wesley Chapel and J.W. Mitchell high schools will conduct theirs at the University of South Florida Sun Dome in Tampa.
The seniors spent several hours this week rehearsing for the big moment and hearing last-minute instructions such as dress appropriately and don't text message during the ceremony.
Arsenio Roberts, 18, is another Zephyrhills High senior who racked up college credits in advance, taking six dual enrollment courses at PHCC. He plans to finish his associate's degree there, and then head for the University of Central Florida in Orlando to study psychology.
"People tell me I'm good at helping out people and solving problems," Roberts said. "I think that's my calling."
Roberts said he won't miss rising at 6:15 a.m. each day to make it to high school on time. He will miss - desperately - the Hot Pockets served every couple of weeks in the cafeteria.
Students choose among pepperoni, meatball and cheese Hot Pockets.
"Pepperoni is the best," an unhesitant Roberts said.
Kristen Beville, 18, the Zephyrhills valedictorian, is bound for the University of Florida and looks forward to learning about life in Gainesville. She has lived in Zephyrhills since she was 4.
"I want to experience a new town," Beville said.

Zephyrhills High School Commencement, St. Petersburg Times, May 23, 2007
Zephyrhills High School Commencement will be at 7 p.m. Friday in the school's activity center.
Kristen Beville, Valedictorian with GPA: 4.4318 weighted.
Clubs/extracurriculars: National Honor Society (president), Interact Club (secretary), Math Team, Brain Bowl, varsity basketball (captain); varsity golf (captain of second team All-Conference), work at Bright Beginnings Day Care, volunteer for the Zephyrhills Youth Basketball League.
Favorite place on campus: The basketball court.
Future school: Attending the University of Florida and majoring in biology. Maybe pre-med.
Ideal Career: Research or Teaching
Favorite book: The Da Vinci Code by Dan Brown.
Most inspirational people: My mother, father and grandmother because they have supported me every day of my life. They are the most important people to me.
Best advice/quote: The Serenity Prayer - "God grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, the courage to change the things I can, and the wisdom to know the difference."
Josalynn Wireman, Salutatorian with GPA: 4.0
Clubs/extracurriculars: National Honor Society, Big Brothers Big Sisters, work at least 30 hours a week at Quail Hollow Animal Hospital.
If you could, what would you change about your high school? Nothing! I love my school just the way it is. Future school: I will be attending the University of South Florida majoring in veterinary sciences/biology.
Ideal career: Veterinarian.
Favorite book: "The Stephanie Plum" series by Janet Evanovich.
Most inspirational person: My mom. She always encouraged me to succeed.
Best advice/quote: "Life is a game and success lies within how you play that game. Once you know how to make the right moves, you can win in life." -Mr. Palmer, my world history teacher.

Bottom Row: Eric Frampton, William Shepler, Westley Thornton, Josh Ringo, Jordan Smith, Tyler Smith, Phillip Robichaud, Dannellios Ansley; row 2: Lawrence Reno, Adrienne Beasley, Alex Sampson, Mychael Floyd Sedderick Cunningham, William Murphy, Taylor Doerr, Jonathan Bice, Chris Henry; row 3: Jason Badia, Joe Maldonado, Jesus Castenada, Ben Contrell, Michael Hensley, Michael Posey; row 4: Andrew Smith, Louis Ferguson, Chris Ferraro, Quentin Amos, Tyler Guy, Sean Gray, Joey Lyman, Beau Barnes, Michael Willey; row 5: Coach Troy Hochstetler, Coach Tom Fisher; Coach Cutler; Coach Cimmorelli; Coach McDermott; Coach Meza

Mid-Season Report, St. Petersburg Times, September 26, 2006 by John Cotey
The Bulldogs stunned the county - they always knew they could do it - with a 14-7 win at Land O'Lakes on opening night and have not let up. Plenty of people deserve credit for the 5- 0 start: the coaching staff, running backs Cannellios Ansley and Phillip Robichaud, linebacker Beau Barnes, quarterback Sederrik Cunningham, the offensive line, and perhaps most deserving is receiver Mychael Floyd. The 5-foot-10, 170-pounder has made key plays in every game from touchdowns to two-point conversion, from interceptions to blocked punts. That said, coach Tom Fisher will probably cringe reading this with his biggest games yet to come.
Seriously, very little. One minor criticism might be the Bulldogs' failure to put away Land O'Lakes in the opener with more offense, but we would be nitpicking.
The season really comes down to three of the next four games with a huge Class 3A, District 8 title at Gulf on Friday. The Bulldogs follow that up at home against Hudson and Wesley Chapel, and then travel to next-door rival Pasco in a game that could hold the key to consecutive playoff appearances.
Here’s What Pasco Marching Bands Have in Store for the Coming Season, St. Petersburg Times, August 23, 2006
Zephyrhills High
"Traveling' in the U.S.A." is the theme of the Marching Bulldogs' halftime presentation that will be performed by 81 band and color guard members. Selections include America the Beautiful, Sweet Home Alabama, New York New York, Georgia and God Bless America.
Staff: Director Russell L. Schmidt, assistant director Scott Leahy, auxiliary sponsor Jamie Cross.
Trips/Special performances: To be announced, but most likely an in-state venture with the jazz band, possibly playing at the Lakeside Jazz Festival in Daytona.

HIGHLIGHTS OF 2006

Golfing, St. Petersburg Times, May 10, 2006
Golfing and Nascar? This Saturday, at Silverado Golf and Country Club in Zephyrhills, local celebrity and NASCAR Truck Series driver David Reutimann will host the David Reutimann Golf Tournament, benefiting the All Children's Hospital. The tournament will begin at 9 a.m., and the cost is $100 per person or $400 a team. Hole sponsorships also are available for $100. Included in the price is golf, a BBQ dinner and prizes. A silent auction also will be held featuring autographed NASCAR items.
The 36-year-old Reutimann, a Zephyrhills high school graduate, races the No. 17 Darrell Waltrip Motor sports Toyota Tundra. He will be on hand to take pictures and sign autographs.

Lessons in Florida, St. Petersburg Times, March 22, 2006
Did you know that—Florida is the only state that has flown under five flags: the English, French, Spanish, Confederate and American?
Dinosaurs once lived in Florida.
Dade City was named for Major Francis Langhorne Dade.
Osceola was a Seminole war leader who refused to leave his homeland in Florida...

You can find some of these facts by visiting www.myflorida.com or by tapping the brains of ZHS art teacher Deborah Gillars and history teacher Jean McNary. The two not-so-recent transplants (Gillars came from Pennsylvania in 1961; McNary from Ohio in 1968) organized a ZHS Heritage Day celebration at ZHS. There was a desire to share the fondness they have for the place they call home. We want the kids to appreciate the great heritage and history we have here. Their guest speakers have included an archaeologist, Civil War re-enactors, folks who prepare Florida foods and the famed Florida Highwayman, Robert Butler. Wesley Johnson, President of the School’s National Art Society, who helped to run the event said, “It’s really a good idea.”
...Last week the two teachers brought in three special guests: Moses Jumper, 55, a Seminole Indian who lives on the Big Cypress Reservation, Storyteller and Florida cracker, Butch Harrison and Nature photographer, Jason Hahn. Also on hand were Derrick Tucker, ZHS Principal, and Fremont Ogle, music teacher, who presented some Florida music selections. Tucker, a self-taught musician who also sings with Tampa’s Master Chorale, said, “All cultures, without fail use music as the principal basis or reaching their soul and spirit...

HIGHLIGHTS OF 2005

No Old School Ties, Tampa Tribune, April 12, 2005
When crews finish work at Raymond B. Stewart Middle, nothing will be left of the 1920’s original.
…Little by little, the 79-year old Raymond B. Stewart Middle School will expand to make way for this growing city and its growing student body. The town that once educated every child in town from first through 12th grades in this building….
(Note that: Per Jerry Pricher, “All grades, from one to twelve were housed in Zephyrhills Public Schools for many years. In the early 1930’s the top story burned and was removed. Two side wings and an auditorium were added to the main building at this time, to be followed by a junior high annex and home economics building in 1944, three elementary wings in 1952, a band building in 1954, and a gymnasium in 1967. A new media center and home economics building were constructed in 1968 and redesigned ten years later.” The original campus of ZHS was town down in 2005 as captured in the news article at right—this original building.
Built in 1926 was the ZHS campus until the new plant was constructed in 1975. The name has changed from ZHS to Zephyrhills Middle School to Zephyrhills Junior High, back to Zephyrhills Middle School, and became Raymond B. Stewart Middle School in September of 1986).

Shift to Real World Begins, St. Petersburg Times, May 22, 2005
High school graduation is traditionally a time of change.
"Welcome to the end of your mom doing your laundry," salutatorian Chloe Estep told Zephyrhills High School graduates. "Welcome to the beginning of your adult life.
But for the Zephyrhills High School Class of 2005, the changes began with the ceremony itself.
The 201 members of this year's class had someone new leading the ceremony this year, and someone new reading each of their names as they made their ways across the stage.
Friday night marked Gerri Painter's first commencement ceremony as Zephyrhills' principal. Painter took over for Jim Davis when Davis was transferred last November to James Irvin Education Center in Dade City.
Zephyrhills seniors lost another graduation staple in March when English teacher Phil Sinaguglia, known to students as "Mr. Sin," died just days after being diagnosed with cancer.
This year, at student requests, assistant principal Mike Macchiarola, stepped into "Mr. Sin's" traditional role of reading the name of each graduating senior. Class president Ryan Orosz recognized Sinaguglia's wife, who received a standing ovation from the audience.
Even in the face of change, valedictorian Suneal Bedi asked his fellow graduates to literally "find their beats."
"The essence of music is the beat," Suneal said in his music- themed address that even included a short rap. "That's what's unique to every song. I urge you to find your beat. Find what keeps you going."
The week before the ceremony, Painter said she watched videos of previous ceremonies and tried to keep commencement as familiar as possible for students. That's one of the reasons Painter asked former principal Davis to be the one to hand the Class of 2005 their diplomas, an announcement that was received with applause.
"I felt like he had been their principal for 3 1/2 years," she said. "And I thought that was only fair that they receive their diplomas from the principal that they know."
And in addition to recognizing change, the school also recognized the many accomplishments of this year's seniors. The Class of 2005 earned almost $573,000 in scholarship money and had one National Merit Scholar, Chloe Estep. The school also recognized one student, Sasha Wright, who had already earned her associate's degree from Pasco-Hernando Community College before graduation.
Now the Zephyrhills graduates are looking to the changes of the future as they go to college or into the military or off to full- time employment.
"I'm relieved," said Kristi Beinhauer, who is leaving for Florida State in the fall. "Now the real work begins."

Top of the Class, St. Petersburg Times, May 11. 2005
Valedictorian is Suneal Bedi with a GPA: 4.627 weighted.
Clubs/Extracurriculars: Founder of Gay-Straight Alliance, National Honor Society, French Honor Society (president), Model United Nations, Brain Bowl, Math Team, Future Business Leaders of America, tennis team (captain).
Favorite place on campus: The lunchroom is my favorite place because I love to eat and chat with my buddies.
Favorite book: Crime and Punishment by Fyodor Dostoevsky.
Future plans: I plan on attending Swarthmore College near Philadelphia. I plan to major in political science.
Ideal career: I would probably like to go to law school and business school and become a lawyer.
Most inspirational person: My twin brothers. They always lead me in the right direction. The love they show me is more than I could ever ask for. Moreover, they push me to be the best I can. I would love to be like them when I get older.
What kind of legacy would you like to leave the world? I would like to be known as a person who always cares for others. I hope my legacy is a path of great success in financial, family and charity areas.
Salutatorian is Chloe Estep and her GPA is 4.546 weighted.
Clubs/Extracurriculars: Band, International Thespian Society, Future Business Leaders of America, National Honor Society, Math Team, Brain Bowl, United Nations, Gay-Straight Alliance, swimming, tennis.
Favorite Place on Campus: My Spanish classroom because before or after school we always have jam sessions of Spanish folk music.
Favorite Book: Wicked: The Life and Times of the Wicked Witch of the West by Gregory Maguire.
Future Plans: Princeton University. I would love to end up as an interpreter working for the United Nations or the State Department. Until then, I would like to translate for international business or for a publishing company.
Ideal Career: Diplomatic interpreter.
Most Inspirational Person: My mother, because she is incredibly intelligent, yet chose to stay home with me when I was little. She has overcome many hardships with work and family and is now a successful high school teacher about to be published.
What kind of legacy would you like to leave the world? My love is language and through my knowledge of many of them, I would like to build bridges between people of different nations and ethnic groups. Languages are fun and preserve culture but can also be a great barrier to peace.

A Generation Award, St. Petersburg Times, May 22, 2005
They were high school freshmen when four planes crashed on Sept. 11, 2001. As the Class of 2005 moved through adolescence, they watched their siblings go to war, their school security tighten, their sense of patriotism challenged. Suneal Bedi, a Zephyrhills High student of Indian descent, learned the value of tolerance after people likened him to a terrorist. This year, he started the Gay- Straight Alliance at his school to promote understanding. Julie Anne Billedo of Gulf High said the events of 9/11 taught her and her classmates that when tragedy strikes, you bind together and extend help. When hurricanes devastate, help. When a tsunami hits, help. Members of the Class of 2005 consider themselves a global generation, immersed in technology and keenly aware that they are not the center of the world. On Friday night, 2,753 of them - 90 percent of those who started the year in Pasco County as seniors - flipped their tassels, tossed their hats and sadly, hopefully, nervously walked off one stage and onto another.

Time is Winding Down on Thomas, St. Petersburg Times, October 15, 2005
Tom Fisher is a pro at washing and folding uniforms. He's been pushing those stinky gray tubs filled with jerseys and pants for decades. Clothes get dirty. Fisher washes clothes. Laundry is a seemingly endless cycle, similar to the one Fisher faces with adjusting his football roster each season.
Seniors graduate. Underclassmen take over. Fisher wouldn't allow the masses to believe this season is any different even with two-way star Bryan Thomas handing over his No. 21 jersey for good.
Thomas' four superior seasons at Zephyrhills have been complemented with enough scholarship offers to cover his bedroom wall, each a reminder high school is ending.
He has taken his first official visit to Tennessee and plans to use the others before making a verbal commitment. But there's still a significant piece of the season remaining, including tonight's tussle with Hudson for sole possession of first place in Class 3A, District 8.
Thomas believes it's the biggest game of his career. "Every game is a big game," Thomas said. "But we really need this one. We've had two weeks to get ready to do what we have to do."
That means disabling Hudson's passing attack and rolling over its defense. Sounds simple enough for Thomas. He's scored in five of six games on either side of the ball. Most opponents are well versed in his offensive talents. Thomas has four years of explosive highlights at receiver and running back. And he has taught defensive coordinators to respect No. 21. Thomas has given offensive coordinators headaches with four interceptions, including three returned for touchdowns. Few thought his 91-yard return in a 21-7 win against Hernando could be topped. But Thomas stunned the home crowd with a career- long return of 99 yards in a 28-6 win against district foe Gulf. He contends it was at least 101 yards because he made the pick in the end zone. But a referee behind the play marked the interception at the Zephyrhills 1-yard line. Regardless, there's one mutual thought throughout the Zephyrhills locker room. "You know for a fact he makes your job easier," Zephyrhills defensive back Sederrik Cunningham said. "You know the side of the field he's on is going to be okay. "Bryan can cover half the field by himself." Thomas has been a solid starter wherever he stands. Most schools recruiting him want to put him in the secondary. But his visit to Tennessee revealed some colleges might consider using him as a receiver. Thomas has two receiving touchdowns this year, a 56-yard reception in a 34-7 loss to Land O'Lakes, and a 20-yarder in a 17- 13 win against Mitchell. His numbers don't aren't top-notch - 15 catches for 337 yards. But consider that he is often double-teamed, freeing up teammates to make plays. Fisher also points out Thomas often makes key blocks. "It's hard to get him the ball," Fisher said. "I have to do a better job of trying to get him the ball more." With four regular-season games left, time is running out. Finding a more effective plan to get Thomas the football could be the difference in making the postseason. And as Fisher tries to adjust to life with Thomas, he already has started to adjust in anticipation of a gaping cavity in his secondary next season. How much will Fisher miss his star? I've been around long enough to miss a lot of people," Fisher said. "You get over it. You get over it and go on."

Daybreak Rotary News, St. Petersburg Times, July 25, 2005
Daybreak Rotary Club recently held its end of the year banquet at the Senior Center in Zephyrhills.
The meeting was called to order by president Madonna Wise. Jean Murphy joined Wise to lead the group in a rendition of Swing Low, Sweet Chariot, complete with Rotary inserts. Clarence McKenney then made some opening humorous remarks and led the club in an invocation.
 The Daybreak members enjoyed a musical presentation by Brittany Harrelson, a 2005 graduate of Zephyrhills High School and member of the Showstopper Show Choir. She was joined by Elizabeth McLaughlin, a student at Stewart Middle School and a member of Entertainment Review Show Choir. McLaughlin did a humorous song, Last Year's Queen, inserting Rotary as a theme.
Harrelson finished the evening's entertainment with My Man, which the club dedicated to District Rotarian of the Year, Russ Miller, who attended the banquet.

HIGHLIGHTS OF 2004

St. Petersburg Times, August 15, 2004
Amanda Davis, Pasco High, and Kate Benedini, Zephyrhills High have been announced as Sam Walton Scholarship Winners by the Dade City Wal-Mart Store No. 713. Davis is a graduate of Pasco High School and Benedini graduated from Zephyrhills High School.
During her years at Zephyrhills High School, Kate Benedini was a member of the Politics Club, Interact Club, varsity track and soccer. She was a member of the National Honor Society and made the honor roll throughout high school. Kate will attend the University of South Florida where she will major in elementary education. Each Wal-Mart and Sam's Club that is open and operating as of Feb. 1 of each year l awards two $1,000 scholarships to qualifying local high school seniors. This award can be used for the student's first year in an accredited college or university approved by the Wal-Mart Foundation. The award can be applied to cover tuition, books, fees and on campus room and board.
More than 6,500 awards are given annually. Selection of recipients is based on academic record, ACT/SAT test scores, community/extracurricular involvement, work experience and financial need.
Recipients are selected by an independent panel of judges selected by an outside management service and in no instance do any officer or employee of Wal-Mart Stores, Inc.; participate in the selection of recipients. All local winners will automatically be entered into a state competition for a chance to win an additional $4,000 scholarship, for a total of $5,000. All state winners will then be automatically entered into a national competition for a chance to win an additional $20,000 scholarship, for a total scholarship award of $25,000. This scholarship program is funded by the Wal-Mart Foundation and is administered by an outside management service. Awards are granted without regard to race, color, creed, religion, age, gender, disability, or national origin. Announcement of the local scholarship winners was made by Sheryl Lullen from the Dade City Wal-Mart.

St. Petersburg Times, June 20, 2004
Project Graduation Winner
Danielle Shampine was the Zephyrhills High School Project Graduation grand prize winner for this year. Shampine's prize is a two-year lease of a Ford Ranger from Jarrett Ford Lincoln Mercury. Project Graduation has continued each year since and is an all-night party that is held at the YMCA in Zephyrhills, ensuring that the graduating seniors spend their evening celebrating in a drug- and alcohol-free environment. Jim Scott of Jarrett Lincoln Ford Mercury made the presentation to Shampine.
Teen Topples Zephyrhills Council Member, St. Petersburg Times, April 14, 2005
Hometown teen Danny Burgess, ZHS graduate of 2004, upset incumbent Celia Graham Tuesday in the only contested race for City Council.  Burgess, 18, collected 382 votes to Graham's 251 in an election with only 8 percent turnout. Burgess was born and raised in Zephyrhills and served on the City Youth Council during high school. He's now a freshman at the University of South Florida, majoring in political science, and is president and co-founder of the Reagan Republican Club in east Pasco.
Reached Tuesday evening, Burgess said that during the campaign he heard most often from residents about two issues: growth and its effect on the city's character. "I've lived here my whole life, and I want to bring back that small-town atmosphere. They shook my hand and said you do it," Burgess said.
Graham, 44, campaigned on those issues too, but said she thinks another point decided the race. During her two years on the council she voted four times to rename Sixth Avenue for Martin Luther King Jr., a position Burgess cited as his reason for challenging her. "I hate to say that, but I do believe that's what it was," Graham said of the election's outcome. But if it did cost her the seat on the council, Graham said she wouldn't change her position. "I live on that street, and I'm proud to say so," she said. "I believe that the people in this city really need to think about where their point of view is coming from and whether or not it's helping their community or hurting their community - all of the members of their community.  Burgess was sworn in Wednesday at City Hall. "I can bring a lot of positives to the city. That's my goal," he said. "I just want to encourage the youth of the town."

Prom Wear Has Couples In Sticky Situation, St. Petersburg Times, July 5, 2004 by Gail Diedtrich
Desiree D'Allesandro looked elegant as she prepared to step into the car that would whisk her away to the Zephyrhills High School prom.
But there was one small problem: She couldn't sit down. Her red, white and black duct tape dress was too tight. Wait. Duct tape? That's right. D'Allesandro and her date, Jon David, along with three other area couples created prom outfits using duct tape. The stunts were part of a national contest called "Stuck at Prom." Winners, to be chosen from 325 entries this year, will split $5,000. An additional $2,500 will go to the school whose prom they attended. Winners will be announced Wednesday.
The contest is sponsored by Henkel Consumer Adhesives of Avon, Ohio, marketers for Duck brand duct tape. The company got the idea after customers told of many items, such as wallets, they were making with the sticky tape, which federal officials suggested residents use to seal their homes in the event of biological and chemical attacks. "What if we turn those ideas into a real contest where students could have the opportunity to win scholarship dollars?" company spokeswoman Laura Domokos said. The contest began in 2001 and draws several hundred entries each year. Information submitted for this year's contest shows the individual outfit’s average 30 rolls and about $150.
"It is so amazing to take a toolbox essential and craft such creative items, going from simple to extreme," Domokos said. "We are excited every year to see what will be produced."
With help from her mother, Karen, Courtney Brooks of Land O'Lakes High School created a mermaid dress using hundreds of blue and green circles cut from duct tape. She completed her outfit with a lobster purse made from red duct tape. Her date, Travis Trottier, completed the theme with a fisherman's slicker made from bright yellow duct tape. The whole ensemble took 65 rolls of tape and cost $300. Participating couples faced many challenges. The clothes were heavy. And hot. Brooks found she could not use glue when making her dress. "Duct tape sticks only to duct tape," said Brooks, whose dress weighed 10 pounds. Colin Reed, a 2004 graduate of Cambridge School in Tampa, came prepared for wardrobe malfunctions with spare rolls of tape. They came in handy when his vest ripped.
He and date Ashley Richards of Gaither High School created black, blue and yellow outfits with a Florida palm tree design. Designed from Reed's doodles, Richards displayed a vision of "night," and Reed depicted "day." Joe Barbieri and Jenna Valenti's problems had nothing to do with duct tape but still kept them working right up until the last minute. Valenti, a soccer player and a senior at Largo Senior High Magnet Center, broke her collarbone about a month before the prom. They feared they would have to abandon their partially finished creation of neon pink and black. But after two weeks, Valenti realized she could still use her hands, and the project was on again. At 9 p.m. on prom night, Barbieri and Valenti stuck the last piece of tape on their clothes. After a short rest, they arrived and upstaged the prom queen and king. "At that time, I didn't even care any more whether we won the contest or not," Barbieri said. "It was just all worth it at the end."
As for D'Allesandro, who couldn't sit, she came up with a remedy as creative as her dress.
The couple rode to the prom in regular clothes. In the parking lot, they changed into their duct tape formal wear behind sheets their parents held up for privacy.
Despite the hardships, participants said they would do the project again. "We were the first at our school to ever do this, and I hope it inspires other students," Valenti said. "It is definitely something worth doing."
Duct tape trivia
Invented during World War II based on military need to have waterproof seal for ammunition cases and other containers; color was army green. Originally named "Duck Tape" since water rolled off it like a ducks back. World's largest roll of Duck Tape is 500 pounds, 9,500 yards or 5.5 miles. It was created by Shurtape Industries, Hickory, N. C. Now comes in more than 20 colors including fluorescent and natural shades. Can be used as a bandage. Avon, Ohio is known as Duck Tape Capitol of the World.
More than 100,000 Web sites reference duct / duck tape. High end art pieces, furniture and even shoes are made from duct tape.  Made in three layers: mesh tape coated on one side with polyurethane sealant and on the other with thick rubber based adhesive. Sticks best to itself and worst to anything wet.
Sources: www.ducktape.com, www.ducttapefashion.com, www.ducttapefashion.com, www.ducttapeguys.com, www.fancydeluxe.com, www.ducktapeclub.com

Baseball, St. Petersburg Times, June 27, 2004
All season, the only thing more confounding than trying to get a hit off Bulldogs ace Joe Duffau was trying to explain why college scouts weren't looking his way. Consider one mystery solved.
The senior right-hander dominated county batters, striking out 131 in 72 innings. He finished his season with a 0.29 ERA. And nearly two months after his season ended, Duffau found a coach impressed enough to offer him a scholarship. As a result, he'll pitch next spring for Des Moines Area Community College. "He can definitely pitch at the next level," said Zephyrhills coach Bruce Cimorelli, who calls Duffau the best pitcher he's ever coached.
Duffau's 2003 season was the high school equivalent of Hall of Famer's Steve Carlton's 1972 campaign, in which he won 27 games for a Phillies team that went 59-103. Duffau earned eight of Zephyrhills' 12 wins and had saves in two more, keeping the Bulldogs competitive in games they otherwise wouldn't be able to compete in. "With Joe pitching, we were a totally different team," Cimorelli said. "With him, we could compete with anybody in the state."
He beat the best teams in the county, pitching a three-hitter with 11 strikeouts to upset conference champion Ridgewood. His best game might have come against rival Pasco, where he out dueled lefty Dominic Brown, pitching a one-hitter and driving in the only run in a 1-0 victory.
He gave up 22 hits over the entire season, including three one- hitters and a two-hitter. His final start of the season was fitting, a 15-strikeout gem of a three-hitter in the district semifinals against Hudson.
He wasn't the most successful pitcher in the county - that would be Ridgewood senior Erik Bua, who went 11-0 and ended his season masterfully with a streak of 20 scoreless innings that included a no- hitter and a five-inning perfect game in back-to-back starts. But for simple dominance, for being all but unhittable against any opponent, Duffau was the pitcher county teams feared facing the most.
And while Bua did not bat for the Rams, Duffau was the steadiest hitter in the Zephyrhills lineup, leading the county with a .442 batting average. The only slight against Duffau as a pitcher was that his 5-foot-7 frame wasn't imposing on the mound, a disadvantage that didn't seem to show up in the box scores. His next stop will be tiny Boone, Iowa, where he'll play for a coach with 823 career wins in a program that has produced more than 70 drafted professionals, including Twins third baseman Corey Koskie. "He was a pleasure to have, a kid who just loves baseball, and you're always happy to see those kind of kids do well," Cimorelli said. "Now he's earned himself a scholarship, so I'm eager to see how he can do, without a doubt." Honorable Mention from Zephyrhills was Kyle Velez, senior, first baseman.

Team by Team Capsules, St. Petersburg Times, by Steve Lee, March 4, 2004
Zephyrhills Bulldog Volleyball update for the year includes the coach, Pat Moul in her 13th season, coming in with a last season record of 12-10. The key returnees are Jessica Reese, Sr., P/IF; Sara Johnson, Jr., OF; Melissa Miller, Jr., P/SS/OF; Terra Rosensweig, Sr., 2B; Hillary Tunker, So., OF; Caryn Allison, So., C. With the retirement of Land O'Lakes coach Jerry English, Moul becomes the dean of county coaches. The Bulldogs, who lost just two seniors, have ample experience and talent. Reese, who is coming off a nine-win season, splits time on the mound with Miller. Zephyrhills hosts a district tournament and Moul expects her team to be one of two to earn a first-round bye.
Schedule includes: March: Tuesday - Wesley Chapel, 7 p.m.; Wednesday - Pasco doubleheader, 5/7 p.m.; 12 - at Tarpon Springs, 7 p.m.; 15 - at Wesley Chapel, 7 p.m.; 16 - at Land O'Lakes, 7 p.m.; 19-20 - at Bell Tournament, TBA; 23 - at Gulf, 7 p.m.; 24 - at Mitchell, 7 p.m.; 26 - Hudson, 7 p.m.; 30 - Pasco, 7 p.m. April: 2 - at Wesley Chapel, 7 p.m.; 13 - Tarpon Springs, 7 p.m.; 16 - at Ridgewood, 7 p.m.; 20 - Land O'Lakes, 7 p.m.

HIGHLIGHTS OF 2003

Foot In a Cast, Pasco Marine, St. Petersburg Times, April 13, 2003 by Jamie Jones
Mary Katherine Mason did what most college students do. She partied. She studied. She hung out in coffee shops.
It was boring, Mason said, I like an exciting life.
After her Freshman year at University of South Florida, Mason, 20, joined the Marine Corps Reserves. She learned to throw a grenade. Dig a manhole. Ambush soldiers.
Lance Corporal Mason’s reserve unit was activated in January. She flew to Kuwait and waited for war…

Top of the Class, St. Petersburg Times, November 6, 2002
Rob Brown was named Teacher of the Month at Zephyrhills High School. Sonia Dudley was named School Related Person of the Month. Top Dogs: Kristi Beinhaur, Tyashia Black, Jessica Gay, Cassie Seekins, Tony Ford, Michael Johnson, Terra Rosenweig, Jamie Bair and Morgan Griffin. Diana Roshell received a Top Dog Award for being one of nearly 5,000 high school seniors whose 2001 PSAT/NMSQT scores placed them among the top 5 percent of more than 115,000 black Americans who requested entry to the 2003 Achievement Program.
Christopher Rodgers, a student at Zephyrhills High School, was named a Commended Student in the 2003 National Merit Scholarship Program for placing among the top 5 percent of more than 1-million students who entered the competition by taking the 2001 Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying test.

Top of the Class, St. Petersburg Times, October 9, 2002
Bill Boots has been named Teacher of the Month at Zephyrhills High School. Tina Marie Gaskin has been named School Related Person of the Month. Top Dog Awards went to the following students: Chandel Freirmuth, Vantisha Knowles, Samantha Smith, Josh Smith, and Michael Hogard.

Pierson Is Eyeing His First Medal Series, St. Petersburg Times, July 25, 2002
Consistently good for one of the lowest scores in the North Sun coast Junior Golf Association, Dade City's Kyle Pierson has finished second three weeks in a row. Next week's 36-hole Tournament of Champions at World Woods Golf Club is his last chance at medalist honors, but a good one, if a practice round Saturday is any indication. "I just haven't quite gotten there, always a stroke or two away," said Pierson, 17, a senior at Zephyrhills. "I feel like I've really come around a lot with my game this summer. I don't think I'd be playing nearly this well going into the high school season without this summer." Pierson played World Woods' Pine Barrens course Saturday and shot 4-under-par 67, a score that would be hard to beat when the juniors tee off Monday and Tuesday.
"I just went up there to take a look and see how the course was, but I played pretty well," said Pierson, who followed with 75 on Monday at Black Diamond Ranch to miss medalist honors by a single stroke in the NSJGA's final regular-season event. Five county golfers qualified among the 76 in next week's Champions field by finishing in the top three in their age group in a tournament this summer. Dade City's Cameron Knight and New Port Richey's R.C. Hyatt (Boys 14 Advanced), Zephyrhills' Erick Dokendorf (Boys Intermediate 13-18) and Wesley Chapel's Brandon Mumaw (Boys/ Girls 8-9) will tee it up.  Dokendorf, 15, a sophomore at Zephyrhills, has fared well in his first year of NSJGA play. He shot 45 over nine holes Monday to win his age group for the third time in five tournaments and said one of the things he's enjoyed most about league play is trying new golf courses.  "Black Diamond, I really liked how it was laid out, the water and the sand, and the greens were really nice," Dokendorf said. "I'm looking forward to playing at World Woods." Knight shot 79 at Black Diamond to tie Spring Hill's Austin Grey for first in the Boys 14 Advanced ranks, the sixth time he's finished with at least a share of first this summer. After next week's play at World Woods, the NSJGA will convene at Sugarmill Woods Country Club for its postseason awards banquet. A player of the year and low-stroke award will be given in each of 11 age groups. In addition, one golfer will be chosen as the circuit's overall player of the year. Divots: Land O'Lakes' Todd Webster and Wesley Chapel's Peter Dachisen are among 90 players registered for the Florida State Golf Association's Public Links Championship next month at Southern Dunes Golf & Country Club in Haines City. In the North Florida Professional Golf Association's Club Professional Championship in Brooksville last week, Zephyrhills' Fred Bender missed qualifying for the national tournament by seven strokes with a two-round 152. New Port Richey's Brian Richter (153) and Wesley Chapel's Vince Buelk (154) were close behind, along with Zephyrhills' Tim Polce (161).

Newsmakers, St. Petersburg Times, August 28, 2002
Pasco Education Foundation Scholarship winners from east and central Pasco: These students are the inaugural graduates of the Take Stock in Children Scholarship Program: Land O'Lakes High: Heidi Wyka; Pasco High: Wesley Frye, Michelle Rubio; Wesley Chapel High: Laura Lee, Michael Roth, Doris Towner; Zephyrhills High: Valerie Beverlin, Marc Kiesel, Tabitha Masters, Ariel Rothschild Goldman. Memorial Scholarship: Justin Wortley, Wesley Chapel High. Pasco County Fair Association Scholarship: Charles Abraham, Pasco High; Marie Risavalto, Zephyrhills High. The Keith Isaac Phillips Memorial Music Scholarship: Kyle Small, Land O'Lakes High. DSBPC Wellness Team Scholarship: Christina Craig, Land O'Lakes High. Nick Walker Memorial Scholarship: Justin Wortley, Wesley Chapel High.

Ambitious Season Series, St. Petersburg Times, by Michelle Miller, August 13, 2003
There's no official theme, but lots of rock n' roll for the Zephyrhills Marching Bulldogs. About 73 band members will blast out Chicago's Make Me Smile, followed by Beatles tunes, Eleanor Rigby and I Saw Her Standing There. A medley of Earth, Wind & Fire songs will finish the halftime show.
"It's a pretty good gamut of the best rock we have to offer," director Russell Schmidt said.
Besides getting his band into shape, Schmidt is working on plans for a trip to this year's Smokey Mountain Music Festival in Gatlinburg, Tenn.

Top of the Class, St. Petersburg Times, January 15, 2003
At Zephyrhills High School, Maggie Mead, Ashley Millim. Andrew McKay, Melissa Workman and Wilma Naber will have their art work displayed from Feb. 6-17 in the Youth Fine Art Exhibition at the Florida State Fair in Tampa. Top Dog Recipients from the principal included: Andrew Counsel, Dean Marshall, Demetrick Searight, Jonathon McCullough, Christian Malter, Heather Brodeak, Karen Hogard, Corey Harris, Anthony Price, and Michael Carter.

Jubilation Punctuated By Hesitation, St. Petersburg Times, by Cory Davis, May 25, 2003
For a moment, you got the sense that J.J. Jivan, valedictorian, wouldn't be able to do it. He had worked so hard to earn the privilege of giving this speech, and now that the moment had arrived and he was standing before a standing-room-only crowd, the words wouldn't come. "Whew," he said.
"You can do it!" yelled a fellow graduate. Something must have stirred J.J. He came on strong.
"We came, we saw and we conquered!" he said, his voice rising in a crescendo. Zephyrhills High School graduated 267 bright-eyed seniors Friday night in a 90-minute ceremony filled with celebration and promise, flashbulbs and teenage stunts. There was not an empty seat in the school's gymnasium as proud relatives and friends scrunched together to make room for the overflowing crowd. Even the rafters were packed with standing well- wishers - 15 minutes before principal Jim Davis took the stage to kick off what turned into a sometimes reflective, sometimes raucous ceremony. The ceremony was interrupted about 8:30 p.m. when a woman walked to the stage as a school administrator was speaking to the graduating class. Police identified the woman as Deborah Louise Mosley, 37, and said she stepped to the microphone and told the audience that her son had not been allowed to participate in the ceremony. Mosley, who appeared angry, was arrested by a Zephyrhills police officer as she walked off the stage. She told police: "I wanted recognition for my son," according to an arrest report. Mosley was arrested on a charge of disrupting a school function and was held in the Land O'Lakes jail Saturday on $250 bail. The night offered plenty of speeches, music and tassel-turning, as well as the usual garden-variety graduation stunts: the volleying of an elusive beach ball, air horns blaring, cow bells ringing (this is Zephyrhills, after all), and one boy's celebratory dance across the stage with diploma fresh in hand.
Kyle Pierson, in his salutatorian speech, set the bar high for his classmates. He challenged each of his fellow graduates to make a difference in the world. “We are not given our talents to let them go to waste," he said. "We all have something we can give to society. . . . Commit yourself today to be a giver to society, not a taker." Jivan said the significance of the evening "fills me with joy and relief." He probably wasn't alone. Just then, an adult confiscated the beach ball, and the Class of 2003 booed in unison. Class president Taleesha Powell asked her fellow graduates to turn to their left, then their right. Good-byes, she said, are not easy in a small town where so many friendships begin in first grade, if not before.
But if the past is any indication, she said, the future holds great things for the Class of 2003.
“We were unstoppable.”

Top of the Class, St. Petersburg Times, May 7, 2003
The Valedictorian is Ashik (J.J.) Jivan with a GPA of 4.5 weighted.
Clubs/Extracurriculars: Interact Club, National Honor Society. Volunteer service at a library and hospital.
Plans: I plan to attend the University of Florida, then medical school. I plan to work in the medical field.
Ideal career: surgeon (neurological or cardiology).
Favorite place on campus: Cafeteria
Most inspirational person: My parents are the most inspirational people in my life. They have given me all I need to succeed in life. They have encouraged me to do my best at all I do.
What kind of legacy would you like to leave? To be able to help people live their lives to their fullest; to give them the opportunity to live a healthy life; to give back to the community the chances it has given to me.
Salutatorian is Kyle Pierson with a GPA of 4.16 weighted.
Clubs/Extracurriculars: Interact Club, National Honor Society, golf team, volunteer at Woodland Elementary School, church and various community events.
Plans: Attend Florida College in Temple Terrace to obtain an associate's degree, then attend the University of Florida and enter the premed department pursuing a career in dentistry.
Ideal career: orthodontist.
Favorite Book: the Bible
Favorite place on campus: cafeteria.
Most inspirational person: My parents because they set an example for me of how to act and live. They have taught me well through their good example.
What kind of legacy would you like to leave? To be able to help people in whatever career I pursue. To be known as someone who gave back to his community and made it a better place.

Top of the Class, St. Petersburg Times, June 4, 2003
River Ridge student Doug Webber was named the 2003 Outstanding Senior Student of the Year. Nominees were: Ruth Vaughn, Gulf High; Tarah Marinelli, Hudson High; Ian Jurgensen, Mitchell High; Nicole Naar, Land O'Lakes High; Amanda Newsome, Pasco High; Cathy Kelly, Ridgewood High; Rhiannon Loomis, Wesley Chapel High; and Kyle Pierson, Zephyrhills High.
These students from Zephyrhills High School were recently honored at the annual JROTC Awards Ceremony: Senior Book Awards: Tabitha West, Lisa Chaika, Christopher Tassallo, Chandel Friermuth, Ricky Valentine, Matt Flanagan, Vantisha Edgecombe-Knowles, Derek Martell, Charles Poole, Danny Huffman, Jaclyn Conklin, Michael Hogard, Anna Strait and Karen Hogard; Varsity Letters (earned for participating in rifle drill team, color guard, Raiders or Rifle Marksmanship for two years, participating in 75 percent of the events): Ryan Johnson, Robbie Bice, Matt Kuykendall, Rickey Valentine, Nicole Mears, Jonathan O'Neil, Corey Morrissette, Tony Price, Josh Smith, Ashlee Malone, Michael Carter, Anna Strait and Michael Hogard; Most Improved Cadet: Corey Morrissette; Distinguished Cadet Award for Academic Excellence: Dustin Barber; Academic Excellence Awards: Matthew Flanagan, Geoffrey Leach, Chandel Friermuth and Dustin Barber; American Legion for Academic Excellence: Shawn Mears; American Legion for Military Excellence: Thomas Flannery; AMVETS: Vantisha Knowles; The Association of the U.S. Army: Josh Smith; Daughters of the American Revolution: Anna Strait; Daughters of the Colonists: Matthew Flanagan; Order of the Daedalians: Matthew Mickle; 82nd Airborne Division Association: Tony Price; Military Order of World Wars: Corey Harris; Military Order of the Purple Heart: Bethany Wiltrout; Purple Heart Certificates: Chandel Friermuth, Robert Bice, Nicole Mears, Thomas Flannery, Corey Harris, Trina Lynch, Matt Kuykendall, Ryan Johnson and Michael Carter; Noncommissioned Officers Association: Matthew Kuykendall; 101st Airborne Division Association: Ricky Valentine; Reserve Officers' Association: Angel Stewart; Military Officers Association of America: Terry Compton; Senior Army Instructor Leadership: Tiffany Woods, Steven Wolf, Michael Carter and Derek Martell; The JROTC Booster Club presented the following awards: Black Beret Plaque - Ryan Johnson; Leadership Development Plaque - Nicole Mears; Golden Rifle Plaque - Michael Hogard; Bullseye Award - Ashlee Molone; Colonel Michael J. Cockill Leadership Excellence Plaque: Jacklyn Conklin; Scottish Rite of Freemasonry: Robert Bice; National Sojourners: Stephanie Straw; Sons of American Revolution: Jonathan O'Neil; United States Army Recruiting Command: Jason Herndon; Veterans of Foreign Wars: Trina Lynch; Department of the Army Superior Cadet: Karen Hogard, Ryan Johnson, Nicole Mears and Nelly Guzman.

Top of the Class, St. Petersburg Times, May 21, 2003
These students were named winners of Art Beat 2003, the Pasco County high school exhibition sponsored by The Pasco Arts Council: First place: Jeremy Paulin, Mitchell High; second place: Jon Poe, Zephyrhills High; third place: Thomas Lawson, Zephyrhills High; merit; honor: Melissa Workman, Haley Smith, Allison Beasman, Ashley Millim, Desiree D'Alessandro, all of Zephyrhills High. Art departments from each school were awarded a materials grant for participating.

HIGHLIGHTS OF 2002