The BluePrint - Volume 15, Issue 5

the

blueprint Hagerty High School

Vol. 15, Issue 5

May 1, 2020

Oviedo, Florida

The quarantine issue

COVID-19 FAQS Frequently asked questions about Oviedo, CDC, Hagerty and College Board. page 2

new horizons Animal Crossing: New Horizones becomes a favorite passtime during quarantine. page 13

SLADEK SPEAKS Rules, guidelines and suggerstions put in place by Oviedo mayor Megan Sladek page 4

Missing You DIY WITH LESS Pass time and save money with DIY activities, such as bleached jeans and cropped t-shirts. page 10

Senior Grace Germer reflects on the season being cut short and what she misses most. page 16

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News

Answers to your COVID-19 questions

Questions regarding the state of Oviedo based on information given

by Mayor Megan Sladek.

Q: How many people in our community have been diagnosed with COVID-19?

A: As of April 26, 5,530 people in Seminole County have been tested for coronavirus and only 359 have been diagnosed.

Q: Where can families get food?

A: Hope Helps is a food pantry based in Oviedo. To request help click here. Schools and Crosslife Church have food pantries available to families in need. The Sikh Society is also giving out meals.

The Center for Disease Control’s information to help prevent the spread of COVID-19 nationwide.

Q: What are the symptoms of the coronavirus?

A: Symptoms for the coronavirus include fever, coughing and shortness of breath. Emergency symptoms include trouble breathing, pain or pressure in your chest and blush lips or face.

Q: How can I prevent the spread?

A: The best way to protect yourself and stop the spread is to limit exposure to the virus, and practice good hygiene by washing your hands frequently.

Principal Robert Frasca’s response to some frequently asked questions from the Hagerty community.

Q: How are students going to return textbooks and other things of that nature this year?

A: Administration is working on creating a drop off system for students to drop off school property.

Plans will be finalized within the next few weeks.

Q: How can a student come to campus to pick something up from their locker?

A: Students will need to set up an appointment using this form to schedule a visit to campus.

Schools closed due to coronavirus Skyler Glenn

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Information provided by College Board regarding schools.

Q: Will I be able to take the SAT again?

A: Although May and June SATs were canceled two new testing dates were added in August and September. Registration for these dates will be available at the end of May. Q: What do I have to do in order to re-register for my AP exams?

A: In order to make sure your AP testing ticket will go to the right place, make sure to re-register for the AP tests. For details on how to complete this click here.

COVID-19 Updates

Journalism 1 Student

n April 18, Gov. Ron DeSantis announced that all Florida public schools were to remain closed and continue distance learning for the rest of the 2019-2020 school year due to the rise in Coronavirus cases.

“We’ve got pretty good momentum for distance learning… it’s obviously not the ideal situation, but given where we are in the school year, we felt that that was the best decision to go forward,” DeSantis said in a press briefing on April 18.

Schools were originally to remain closed only through April 30, but the virus does not seem to be slowing down. Healthcare officials say that Florida will likely not reach its peak in cases until early May, leading students and Governor Ron Desantis announces that K-12 schools will be closed for the rest of the school teachers to believe that there was no chance of year. Distance learning will continue during this time. going back.

“I had prepared myself for distance learning and everyone is doing everything they can to seconds to honor the seniors, streaming it on for the rest of the year once we didn’t come make a tough situation go as well as it can. I Facebook Live. Along with that, the SCPS food back in April,” biology and chemistry teacher really appreciate what everyone is doing in pantries have remained open for students who Tawni Small said. “Although, I do think it was this unprecedented time, teachers, staff, and need a meal. students,” Frasca said. the smart thing to do.”

“It’s been weird not being able to see Among the hardest hit by this decision my friends and teachers every day, but I’m Distance learning has not been easy for is the class of 2020. Prom thankful that we’re not getting sick,” freshman many students. Teachers are graduation are two big Alonzo Torres-Nieves said. expected to give students a “I had prepared and milestones, and seniors are minimum of two hours of There are other struggles for the nation work per week. Some teachers myself for distance unsure if they will be able to beyond school. States are struggling with the offer live lessons through learning for the rest have these experiences. In an decision on when to reopen. As of April 28, Webex or Google Meets, but of the year once we email sent to HHS families 10 states have controversially begun opening it still does not compare to indidn’t come back on April 17, Frasca said that up a variety of public places—even bowling person learning, according to in April, although, I events were postponed until alleys. Georigia, Florida’s closest neighbor has June, but that is subject to made the decision to open select locations to junior Beth Logston.

“I don’t feel like I’m do think it was the change at any time. Hagerty the general public. Florida has opened a few learning anything. It’s just smart thing to do.” hopes to hold their annual public beaches, but ultimately has not made Sammy’s event in addition to a decision, and the stay-at-home order is still busywork,” she said. “But I - Tawni Small guess it’s better than going Biology teacher these two events. Leadership in effect for the time being, The current plan hopes to host this event the in the State of Florida is for schools to open back and getting sick.”

Principal Robert Frasca has been pleased afternoon before Prom is held. again in the fall, but SCPS has not made any However, SCPS is trying to make this announcement yet as to how that will happen with how students and staff have handled all of situationa little better. On April 20, schools lit or if there will be changes from how the school these changes, despite the struggles.

“Overwhelmingly, the feedback is positive up their stadium lights for 20 minutes and 20 system normally runs.

SCPS CORONAVIRUS UPDATE #16

April 3 – Superintendent Dr. Walt Griffin has released another update concerning COVID-19 and how it is affecting schools. This four part update includes tips for success in online learning, warnings against unprotected teleconference programs, a reminder for students to follow the Acceptable Use and Safety policy when using school laptops, and a notification that eCampus was closed for thirty minutes on April 5th for maintenance.

UCF OPENS DRIVE-THRU TESTING SITE

April 6 – University of Central Florida opened Orlando’s second Coronavirus testing location. This appointment-only site is offering a drive through option to test for the virus. In order to get an appointment patients must be prescreened by a local healthcare provider.

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news

College board moves AP tests online Leah Luedeman

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Staff Reporter

ue to the state-wide school closures as a result of the Coronavirus, students taking AP courses will no longer take College Board tests in their usual format for this year. Instead of an in person test that is hours long – with handwritten responses, the tests will be offered in an online format with three written responses.

“It is not my preferred method of testing, however, under the circumstances I feel that students should have whatever opportunity presents itself to earn college credit in the classes they have been preparing for all school year,” AP World and European History teacher Erin Foley said.

Exams will be given from May 11-22, and they will only include topics and skills that should have been taught by early March. Students will be able to take these online tests on any device connected to the internet such as computer, tablet, or smartphone.

Most exams will be 45 minutes long with five additional minutes needed for uploading. College Board said that students will need to access the online systems 30 minutes early to set up.

“It made me kind of paranoid that my computer might die halfway in the test,” junior Jonathan Polera said. “I don’t really mind it because at least we get to have the AP testing still.”

With the new testing procedures, teachers like AP US History teacher Dali Stires and Foley continue to teach as normal with the only difference being that students and teachers do not see face to face.

“My intentions are to have as many opportunities to have virtual face to face so I can encourage them, help them, guide them. Still be there for them,” Stires said. “I still will hold my students accountable for their review work.”

Stires plans to prepare her students by giving them review assignments that have them collect evidence for key concept questions they have focused on all year. She will also be giving them practice quizzes for each time

STUDY BREAK Junior Sahil Shah enjoys a brain break in Dali Stires’ AP U.S. History class. photo by Eileen An

period, writing practices, and review videos.

“Personally, many AP teachers are actively trying to find ways to bridge the ‘distance’ factor; either with podcasts, recorded lectures or web streaming,” Foley said. “Now, whether students tune in for these has yet to been seen.”

Polera is going to take the exams for AP Spanish Lang, AP English Lang, and AP US History. His plan to prepare will be going to his teacher’s online sessions to ask questions, getting work done for classes, and reviewing previous lessons.

“The student responses will have to show that the students know their subject matter and it will require students to provide evidence that they truly understand,” Stires said. “I believe that it can be challenging if a

AP FAQs (answers from College Board) Q: How will we take the tests?

A: Students will be able to take exams on any device they have access to— computer, tablet, or smartphone. They’ll be able to either type and upload their responses or write responses by hand and submit a photo via their cell phone.

Q: How will we get into the test?

A: College Board will send you an e-ticket by email two days before each exam you’re registered for. This e-ticket is unique to you and not transferrable.

Q: Does it matter how we access the test online?

A: The AP Exam will only open in the latest versions of Chrome (recommended), Firefox, Safari, or Edge. AP exams will not work in Internet Explorer.

student does not prepare.”

Students taking world language and culture exams like Polera will have to complete two spoken tasks consistent with free-response questions three and four on the current AP exam. They will not be required to submit written responses.

Also, students taking Art and Design: 2D, Art and Design: 3D, Computer Science Principles, Drawing, Research, and Seminar will not take online exams. AP scores for these courses will be based on work submitted from their digital portfolios. Their submission deadline is May 26 before midnight.

“Every year I have a positive attitude when students go to take the test,” Foley said. “This year is no different.”

AP Exam Info

Q: Can we use notes?

A: Like many college-level exams, this year’s AP Exams will be open book/ open note. Get tips for taking open book/open note exams.

• AP exam times

Q: How long will each test last?

Exams are shorter than usual this year, and they’ll only include topics and skills most AP teachers and students should have already covered in class by early March.

• Exam security

Q. If a student doesn’t want to test this year, can they cancel at no charge?

A. Yes. They won’t charge anything for an exam that isn’t taken.

Click here for more FAQS

• Make-up exam dates • Exam features and timing • Exam scoring

More tips for success • While you prepare for your notes and resources before your AP exams, keep these facts in mind • • Check out College Board’s YouTube channel for videos to help you prepare for your exam

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Politics

Coronavirus takes its course

A political pandemic Laura Shaw

The White House takes official action.

Race to gain access to tests intensifies.

Jan. 21: First confirmed case in the United States.

Jan. 31 The United States takes travel precautions.

Coronavirus reaches Florida.

March 2 Seminole County annouces a state of emergency.

March 19 A UCF student tests positive.

April 1 Florida’s stay-athome order takes effect.

March 18 A Florida congressman tests positive for COVID-19.

Staying away from large crowds of people is advised.

Grades K-12 will utilize remote learning for the rest of the school year.

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Staff Reporter

ith everything happening, the main question on most Oviedo residents minds’ is “When will life get back to normal?” Behind this tricky question is the list of policies and guidelines set in place by the government to do exactly that: get everything back to normal.

Seeing as the last major pandemic that significantly impacted the United States was the 1918 flu from 1918-1920, COVID-19 has hit the community hard.

Government policy must adapt to this crisis to reduce spread and mitigate the economic consequences. The federal government has implemented policies including stimulus checks, travel restrictions and social distancing orders.

The first reported case of coronavirus in the United States was reported in midJanuary in Washington state and as of April 29, there are 1.05 million cases.

On Jan. 29 President Trump created the White House Coronavirus Task Force to combat the effects of the virus. The formation of this task force only after the first reported case, has left room for criticism.

“On the national level, we lost a month we could have been using to prepare for this pandemic,” Sophomore Sana Yooseph said.

Florida has 32,138 recorded cases of corona and 1,088 deaths as of April 29.

Gov. Ron Desantis issued a stay at home order, that took effect April 1.

Oviedo Mayor Megan Sladek recommends that all citizens listen to the executive order so they can stay safe.

“Stick to the guidelines. I don’t think there’s any value in doing anything more than what’s already out there,” Sladek commented on the policies.

Many students have expressed frustration with the state government’s slow response to the virus.

“Florida should have been enforcing CDC social distancing procedures since early March when they came out,” sophomore Sana Yoseph said, “Our state should have taken this seriously from the beginning instead of downplaying the risks for economic gain (from spring break tourism).”

Other students, however, agree with Sladek and think that there is nothing else that we can do except follow the guidelines.

“I think local governments should be more strict about people being out and should really work to enforce the state

Words from the mayor Distinguish wants from needs

Quarantine forces us to change our day-to day lives and we have to let go of some things. Prioritize what you need to do over what you want.

Establish a “Risk Pod”

“Your current Risk Pod is you plus anyone with whom you have come in contact the last 14 days.”

Exercise caution and reduce exposure.

Take care to set rules and boundaries for those in your “pod.”

Your group also includes any who come in contact with pod members who go out. The group is only as strong as its weakest member.

Meet your needs

Be aware of your environment and how to keep your life running as smooth as possible. Be sure that your house is equipped for long distance learning, if there are any children present. Save as much money as possible. Cancel any unnecessary payments. Consider your health, both physical and mental. Make sure you have access to certain resources if you need it.

Be there for your local businesses

Participate in the #EatOviedo Challenge.

1. Order takeout from an Oviedo restaurant.

2. Take a picture of your food laid out ready to eat. Be sure to include something to identify the restaurant you visited so we can all tell you #EatOviedo 3. Post it somewhere in social media with the hashtag #EatOviedo Support local restaurants and the HOPE food pantry! order. Follow the state order, that’s all we can do, just stay inside,” junior Izzy Pacheco said.

Seminole County declared a local state of emergency on March 2, a month before the statewide stay-at-home order was enacted, and has since updated it multiple times with more restrictions.

It was announced on April 18 that all schools would remain closed throughout

the end of the year.

Something that Sladek and DeSantis agree on is limiting the constraints on personal freedoms. Many of the policies are more of a personal choice than anything else, and Sladek agrees that it is a person’s own decision whether to follow them, even if that is controversial.

“How far do you want to go to protect the weakest of the weak,” Sladek said.

Opinions

5

OUR TAKE

DRAWN OUT Quarantine: alone but stuck together

by Alexis Madlang

A letter to the Class of 2020

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n the last day before spring break, you left concerned about prom, graduation, your senior trips, or if you would get another chance to walk across the courtyard. This was supposed to be your year. You were supposed to attend the Sammys, participate in Senior Week, go to senior breakfast, and be with your friends before venturing into the unknown. But then the coronavirus stole it from you, and we are sorry. However, we are here to offer some encouragement.

Come together

You are not alone in this, not only are there 500 plus seniors from your high school, but there are hundreds of thousands of students across the U.S. going through the same thing. Reach out, talk about it. Practice social distancing, but stay social as ever. FaceTime, text, tweet, Snapchat, make TikTok videos. Use these platforms to stay connected and uplift one another. If you want to take it one step further, reach out to mend broken relationships or reach out to peers that you wanted to talk to but never got the chance to. Class of 2020 will always be remembered as the class who did not have the “full senior experience.” But you can change that and make the class of 2020 be remembered as the class who came together.

Be patient and be aware

Even though the school districts are in crisis mode and trying to accommodate students who need internet access or meals, know that you are not forgotten and that we care.

Districts and businesses are working in creative ways to make this situation the best they possibly can for you. Prom and graduation are not cancelled, just postponed. Businesses such as So Sweet Boutique are also hearing concerns and working on organizing a community prom. Be patient and work with the school district. We know that these plans are not ideal and we do not want to down-play the situation, however, know that they are working hard and are worried about you too.

Other people are working to help the community and our well-being, such as doctors and nurses. We know it is hard to look past this situation and not be able to see friends, go to school and do all the fun senior activities, but be aware that there are people putting their lives and their family in danger,so that at some point we can go back to “normal.”

Look for the good

You have been in high school for four years. Look back and reminisce on all the good parts of high school that you did experience. Your first day of high school, your first football game, making tie-dye shirts in Chemistry, your first privilege day and your first last day of high school.

There is nothing we, or anyone, can say to make up for losing what is supposed to be one of the best years of your life. But we can offer you some encouragement. Right now, you have the power to make the most out of this situation.

Finish off your high school career happy and proud and then go get your diploma on the football field for that High School Musical ending you always dreamed of.

the

blueprint Hagerty High School 3225 Lockwood Blvd.

Oviedo, FL 32765 hagertyjourn@blueprint.com Phone: (407) 871-0750 Fax: (407) 871-0817

Barking Mad Barking Mad is a collection of short submissions about things that tick students off around school. If something at school makes you mad, e-mail us at hagertyjourn@gmail.com and it may be featured here.

“Some teachers are ridiculously bad at communicating online.”

- Natasha Nilsen 11 “People are not able to maintain a relationship during social distancing.”

- Timothy English 11 “People crying or freaking out over people leaving their house to work or just drive.”

- Michael Self 11 “I am stuck inside all day and can’t go hang out with the boys.”

- Jake Hinton 10

The BluePrint is a student-produced newspaper in which the student editors make all content decisions.

The newspaper belongs to the Columbia Scholastic Press Association, the National Scholastic Press Association and the Florida Scholastic Press Association.

Opinions expressed within the newspaper do not represent the staff’s views as a whole (except for Our Take), the views of Seminole County Public Schools or Hagerty High’s administration and staff.

For information about advertising in the paper, please contact us via e-mail or phone. We reserve the right to reject any advertisement.

“I don’t like the media overexaggerating President Trump’s statements. It is dishonest of them and causes unecessary panic in a time where we already have enough.”

- Billy Bohan 10 “I hate just sitting at home doing the same thing every day. The combination of that with virtual school is all so annoying and boring.”

- Daimyan Diaz-Rivera 9 “Some teachers are giving way too much review for AP exams.”

- Michael Maxwell 12 “Why am I expected to turn in assignments at different times during the day? Let me turn in stuff at midnight.”

- Bella Knowles 10 “Senior privileges do not make sense if you have to come back. I should be 5th or 6th period off.”

- Samuel Mallay 12 “I miss my friends and I miss being at school with them and the teachers.”

- Natalia Cruz 11 “Teachers are giving me more work than normal.”

- Jessica Sorensen 10

Editor-in-Chief Jessica Maldonado Print Editor Zoey Young Online Editor Charlotte Mansur

“Schedule changes went by too fast.”

- Riley Boice 11 “I have taken a look at the t-shirts for the class of 2021, and I think the designs should be reconsidered.”

- Jackson Schwerdt 11 “I am not really able to learn math virtually.”

- Sergio Leyte-Vidal 10 “People don’t understand that if you don’t stay in your house this whole situation will just increase, and that you’re not only affecting others but you’re affecting yourself.”

- Emmalys Caamano 9 “Kids with abusive families are stuck inside, and many do not have any food.”

- Sarah Rifenberg 11 “I think it was imprtant to take precautions and be safe, but I think everything was shut down way too fast, destroying small business and causing so many to lose their jobs.”

- Marianne Duncan 10 “I don’t like distance learning becuase it feels optional and I don’t have motivation to do my work.”

- Tatum Trainor 11

News Editor Sharika Khondaker Lifestyles Editor Lukas Goodwin Opinions Editor Andrea Izaguirre

Staff Reporters Haley Hibdon Noah Kemper Chanson Cadet Leah Luedeman Sophie Woodburn Laura Shaw

Sports Editor Hayden Turner Graphic Designers Milea Dozier Parker North Jolie Miller Business Manager Alexis Madlang Adviser Brit Taylor Principal Robert Frasca

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Stepping up your binge game Chanson Cadet

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Staff Reporter

rey’s Anatomy, Tiger King, New Girl, Gilmore Girls… junior Lillian JacquesBaker has always been a binge-watcher.

But with quarantine keeping everyone indoors students have relied on binge-watching to keep themselves entertained. “[Before] I would binge shows but definitely not this many and not this fast,” Baker said. “Staying home just makes it a lot easier to watch TV because you are on your own schedule and not worrying about getting up at 6 a.m.”

Students now have a scaled-down version of their regular school schedule. Not having to be awake for the normal 7:20 a.m. start time means students are watching more Netflix than ever before. However, according to a study by Netflix in 2013, 61% of users were already watching between two and six episodes of a show in one sitting.

Junior Madison Chandler has binged three

shows since the beginning of quarantine.

“I normally binge-watch shows but I have a lot more time now that I’m always home,” Chandler said.

According to a survey conducted by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics in 2018, the average American spends 2.8 hours watching TV daily which accounts for over half their leisure time.

“I get hooked on a show and I want to know what is going to happen, so I keep watching,” said Baker. “Having the time to do this has made binge-watching a lot easier too.”

Being quarantined has meant that people no longer get to see their friends and even extended family. So, Netflix users have started using a chrome extension called Netflix Party.

Netflix Party is a free extension that allows users to watch TV shows or movies at the same time that also contains a live chat feature for friends and family to communicate.

Freshman Catherine Bunn has used Netflix Party over 50 times since being in quarantine and continues to do so.

“I discovered Netflix Party when I was

watching Tik Tok and someone posted about it, so I suggested it to a lot of my friends and then we were all watching movies by that night,” Bunn said.

Netflix Party has been a way for people to binge-watch shows while also maintaining a social output throughout quarantine.

Junior Lucas Duchefrense has used Netflix Party about six times with his friends to watch shows like Atypical and Outlander.

“If my friends and I watched the Netflix show separately but tried to synchronize when we watch it, it would be more difficult to make jokes and react to it because everyone wouldn’t be at the exact same point,” Duchefrense said.

Binge-watching has always been popular with teens; Netflix Party is just an extension that allows binge-watching to be made into a social hangout as many teens struggle with not being able to spend time with friends or family.

“It’s been good to have been in quarantine because I’ve had time to do different chores and time to relax and just watch shows that I normally wouldn’t be able to,” said Duchefrense.

Beacause You Read Both Stories: (Click on the icons to see an interacitve sidebar)

Take a stroll down memory lane Sophie Woodburn

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Staff Reporter

oing outside is high-risk nowadays, getting within six feet of anyone is forbidden, and being productive at home can be a struggle. After exhausting your Apple or Spotify music playlists, after sitting on Zoom with your extended family for an hour, and after finally finishing that puzzle, there’s nothing left to do. Or is there? Work is an option, but some take a different route and binge watch their favorite T.V. shows. There is no better time to rewatch a movie or find a new one than now, and streaming services like Disney+ and Hulu are catching on.

Re-watching your favorite titles like “Phineas and Ferb” on Disney or “Brooklyn Nine-Nine” on Hulu can be nostalgic and in a time of global unease, television can be comforting for some, especially to sophomore Olivia Martin.

“I usually watch more Disney shows than Netflix shows,” Martin said. “Watching High

School Musical just reminds me of when things were easier, especially with everything going on it’s comforting.”

Binge-watching gives an escape from day to day life and is a way to soothe a tired soul. According to a 2017 survey from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average American watches 2.7 hours of T.V. per day or nearly 20 hours each week. More time spent at home means more ample time for bingewatching, and Disney+ and Hulu are working harder to keep up with the “bingers.”

Lots of new titles are dropping on Disney+ and Disney’s owned service Hulu. This gives Disney an edge on platforms like Netflix and Amazon Prime. Disney+ released their recent big-screen movies “Frozen 2” and “Onward” to stream early, and are releasing a Simpsons short April 10.

“I watched the new Onward movie this weekend with my mom. We always watch the new movies together, even if we can’t go to theaters,” sophomore Kat Bell said.

More shows and movies arriving on the

service, meaning subscribers are more likely to choose Disney+ over its competitors.

According to Screen Rant, app analysts reveal that Disney+ is not only popular, but engaging, with users spending more time watching their shows than on competing services.

Disney is not the only one dropping new titles, Hulu is too. “Detective Pikachu,” “Parasite” by Bong Joon-ho, and “Risky Business” were made available early April.

Apart from the new releases, the old shows are just as enticing. Disney+ has that element of nostalgia, and tough times like these make people like junior Xiomy Sam want to look back to certain movies, like her favorite movie “Aladdin.”

“I rewatched the original ‘Aladdin’ movie, and watched the whole trilogy in one weekend, I have all this time so I figured I’d rewatch them,” Sam said.

Hulu and Disney+ are doing their part to stop the spread of coronavirus. Instead of going outside, sit back on the couch and binge watch some nostalgic Disney or Hulu shows.

Entertainment CHAY’S CLOSET Cow print: the next moove in the fashion industry?

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Chanson Cadet

fter a three-course meal at Olive Garden consisting of unlimited soup, a bowl of Chicken Alfredo, and a slice of chocolate cake the size of your face, your date seems to be in shock. Well, they were shocked after your third bowl of soup but once you asked for an extra entree to go you heard them cough something you weren’t meant to catch, “moo.” The comment probably had something to do with the cow print skirt you were currently rocking.

Animal print has always made an appearance in the fashion world, but traditionally designers stick with the classics: leopard, snake, and cheetah print.

These animal prints often featured strong or feared animals, intending to convey their power to the wearer. So why is the newest trend in animal print something that lacks power and intimidation all together: a cow.

One of the most notorious origins of the cow print trend comes from Doja Cat’s 2018 music video “Mooo!.” With the video currently having over 70 million views, one of her outfits in the video is easily recognized featuring a cow print tie-top and skirt.

Although the video was posted in 2018, the trend gained popularity in late 2019 due to its appearance in New York Fashion Week with brands like Burberry.

Celebrities such as Megan Markle and Kylie Jenner solidified the trend in 2019, incorporating it into pumps, boots and bathing suits. Although this trend began in 2019 it has currently amassed greater influence with teens and young adults.

TikTok has encouraged this trend with users painting their rooms and incorporating the print into their wardrobe and everyday life. The hashtag cow-print has a current standing of over 11.9 million views.

Cow print is a fun and vibrant take on animal prints. It comes often in the standard black and white scheme but for a subtler look, brown and white print is also available.

But like snake skin and other animal prints, some companies choose to use real cow fur to make their products. It is important to check labels and what a company stands for before purchasing any animal goods.

Styling the pattern can go one of two ways: either you cover yourself in the pattern head to toe, or you use it in small doses like accessories or nail polish. It’s a hard pattern to pull off and takes a lot of confidence. But if you are looking to make a statement, it could be the print for you.

Yelling “Moo” at someone or calling them a cow has always been an insult or way to make fun of someone’s weight or body type.

Although this pattern is meant to be a “fun” and “youthful” take on animal print, I also see it as a way to assert and take ownership of the insults.

We should all try and be more confident in what we wear and how we wear it because in the words of Doja Cat, “I’m a cow.”

Click the image to acess a pinterst board with more inspiration.

Entertainment R E V I E W B O X

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“3.15.20” Childish Gambino

Childish Gambino (Donald Glover) dropped his newest album, “3.15.20,” on March 22. The unconventionality of it, the blank white album cover, and the angelic techno opening, may have put off many new listeners. However, after diving deeper into the album, Glover’s music quickly shifts to spunky R&B beats, which reflect back on his life and embrace his ethnicity as a black man. This album provides a good balance with light-hearted tunes like “47.48,” which encourages the listener to focus on the present and stop thinking about the violence and turmoil in the world. “47.48” is definitely the highlight of the album, from its poignant message that rings true amidst the pandemic, to the endearing recording of a conversation about loving oneself with his son as the music fades to ambience.

-Lukas Goodwin

“Outer Banks” (Season 1) (Netflix)

“Outer Banks,” released April 15, is a new show on Netflix that follows a group of teenagers in search for treasure.

The show is catered towards teens, and is made obvious when the main character John, played by Chase Stokes, takes his shirt off any chance he gets. When I realized this, I thought I was going to get a bad Riverdale-esque story set by the ocean, but I was surprised. Filled with plot twists and surprises, once you start watching it it is really hard to stop. The acting is the cherry on top, though. Normally with these kinds of shows you get pretty faces without a lot of talent, but these characters make you feel like you are on this crazy adventure with them. I recommend this show to anyone looking for a good binge.

-Charlotte Mansur

“Self-Made” (Season 1) (Netflix)

“Self Made” limited miniseries, released March 20, follows real life African American female millionaire Madame CJ Walker and her story of how she became the first self-made female American millionaire in history, by making hair products catered to women of color. The series creates a wonderful balance between fictional and realistic storytelling. Octavia Spencer, who plays the main character Walker, gives life to the character. She portrays her with a large range of emotions and does not allow the character to fall flat. “Self-made” is a welcoming addition to Netflix, taking itself seriously but has great comedic timing as well. It is perfect for a quick binge during quarantine and shows a part of American history without being boring.

-Michelle Pham

“Heartbreak Weather” Niall Horan

If you’re looking for something new, “Heartbreak Weather” provides uniqueness and creativity. Niall Horan did an amazing job putting together an enjoyable album with original lyrics and music. Horan released his second album, “Heartbreak Weather,” on March 13, containing 14 songs. All of the songs are enjoyable to listen to; the album has a very good balance of upbeat and slow songs.

The first song on the album, “Heartbreak Weather,” is very upbeat and exciting. It’s a great opener to the album and is perfect to listen to when you’re in a happy mood. There isn’t much voice manipulation or noticeable auto-tune in the album, which makes it refreshing to listen to. All in all, “Heartbreak Weather” was a successful album.

-Ana Spina

“The Letter for the King” (Netflix)

A young squire (Amir Wilson) is sent on a dangerous quest to deliver a secret message to the king that will determine the lives of everyone in the kingdom in the first season of “The Letter for the King,” released on March 20. Just like any fantasy drama, there are too many character names and plots to remember. Most of the characters are boring; they can not make up their mind about their personality. The plots are predictable with the regular good v evil cliche as well as the boring storyline of fulfilling a prophecy. With the exception of the first episode, each seemed like a repeat of the previous with horrible fighting scenes and cringey acting. The show is realy only worth a watch to see Ardawen, the horse, and the beautiful landscapes of New Zealand and Czech Republic where the show was filmed.

-Leah Luedeman

“CALM” 5 Seconds of Summer

In the midst of the corona outbreak it’s hard to stay calm, but with the release of “CALM,” on March 27, it just got easier. The album consists of many songs that reflect on their journey, sort of like a message to their younger selves. The band included ‘80s synth-pop in its electric flair into the album, which is something different for this pop-rock band and was not poorly introduced.

The sultry, catchy choruses and broad influences mixed with their pop-rock origin are what make this album so good. The album reaches new lyrical depth with all the songs reflecting on their lives and past romances and how sometimes relationships are frustrating. Overall the album was refreshing, leaving listeners hyped; definitely something to listen to.

-Valentina Hernandez

“Onward” Disney+

Pixar is notorious for fashioning movies that pull at the heart strings. When people heard that Pixar was releasing a new movie, they expected Pixar to rise to the occasion.

Spoiler alert: they did not. The animation was phenomenal, but the plot had more holes than a slice of Swiss cheese.

Two brothers, ones who never met their dad, try to bring him back to life and learn the power of brotherly love along the way. The concept was good but the execution, not so much. It conveys the impression that the producers gave up crafting a substantial plot line and retained the mindset of, “Hey, let’s have Chris Pratt and Tom Holland star in this movie! People love ‘Avengers!’ Big stars = big profit!” Like before, Disney did a better job of advertising the actors than the movie.

-Gabrielle Lewis

“Money Heist” (Season 4) (Netflix)

After blowing up on Netflix, what was supposed to be only a two-part limited series for a Spanish network became a favorite for all. However, season 4 released on April 3 was the first season where I realized why this was only supposed to be a two-part series. Not only did the storyline feel like they had run out of ideas and were very random, but it also was contradicting. For example, Tokyo (Úrsula Corberó) whispers at one point, “Don’t fall in love in a heist…It only brings bad luck.” Yet, almost every character has some kind of significant other. While the action was amazing and unexpected as always, the conflicts and the structure of the show remain the same. The bad thing is, what is charming the first time, does not have the same pull every time.

-Jess Maldonado

3. No chickening out

10 million

people filed for unemployment insurance between April 3-16.

WHAT ’S YOUR STORY?

Sharika Khondaker

I

t is hard to go a full day without worrying about the effects of the pandemic. This generation has never before dealt with a virus as severe as COVID-19, and often we feel helpless to what happens in our surroundings.

However, times like this allow us to take a step back and appreciate family, friends, and little moments of normalcy. The coronavirus impacts everyone, whether directly or indirectly.

Loved ones can be infected with the virus or even work on the front lines of the situation, risking contracting the virus themselves.

While most people follow stay-at-home orders, some do not have a choice. Essential

“I believe people should take this more seriously and be more cautious.”

- Henry Arcena 10

Continue to care

Andrea Izaguirre

As of April 28, there are 981,246 confirmed cases with 55,258 deaths in the U.S.

J

Opinions Editor

unior Cely Perez spends seven days a week working at the Tremont Retirement Home and despite all the recent changes made in response to COVID-19 concerns, Perez remains a daily figure at the home.

Perez spends her shifts distributing meals to residents in the home and finds the new work conditions “strange but manageable.”

“Once I adjusted, it was pretty much routine.

I had to get used to keeping my distance since we’re not allowed to have direct contact with the residents anymore,” Perez said.

News Editor

The new protocol involves gearing up in gloves and masks to distribute meals in disposable containers. Instead of gathering in the main dining room, residents now eat alone in their rooms where their food is brought to them and set at the foot of their door by employees like Perez.

“I know they miss coming outside and talking to us so the changes have been hard for them,” Perez said. “They always have a story to tell and most of them are still pretty funny and active behind the closed doors. A reassuring presence during these times means the world to them so I try to keep a smile on when I’m there even if they can’t see me.”

Sharika Khondaker

E

veryone knows the Chick-Fil-A uniform: the signature red polo with black pants and a black belt. Pair that with a face shield and mask and you have the new and improved uniform, fit for employees working during the quarantine. Junior Ben Steinebronn has gotten used to this by now; he works around 15 hours a week and is considered essential.

Steinebronn works in the back of the house, where he prepares and assembles the food. He wears his mask to work and puts on a face shield when he arrives, keeping it on for his shift. At the end of the shift, all employees soak their face shields in bleach to eliminate

“A reassuring presence during these times means the world to them so I try to keep a smile on when I’m there even if they can’t see me.”

-Cely Perez 11

workers such as medical professionals, grocery store workers and delivery drivers put their lives at risk to keep society healthy and functioning.

Low-wage workers cannot afford to leave their jobs either, as they need to provide for their families.

Even while maintaining social distancing, a handful of people stepped up to provide support for others during this time. From sewing masks for essential workers to donating to food banks and relief efforts, people can make a difference even from inside their home.

With the changing times, everyone has felt the impact, and the BluePrint staff is highlighting the stories of several students and teachers, each one dealing with their own unique circumstances.

Just an extra mile

Follow the

President’s Coronavirus Guidlines for

America: 30 days to slow the spread

Andrea Izaguirre

G

Print Editor

A

s a critical care doctor working in the ICU, junior Mariam Abou El Maali’s father has seen many patients suffering from COVID-19, including a respiratory therapist, his colleague who had been working closely with him. El Maali has admitted that she is afraid that her father is at risk.

“I am scared that my dad might contract the virus,” El Maali said. “I worry for his health.”

In an effort to take the stress off her dad, El Maali helps her sibling with online classwork and long distance learning. While her siblings

in middle school adjusted to the new format quickly, her younger siblings needed help using the new online platforms.

“I helped them in the beginning, such as how to maneuver Google Classroom and their other classes,” El Maali said.

Her family understands the severity of the situation, especially with El Maali’s dad being exposed to the virus at work, however their main focus is being prepared and taking precautions.

“We are not terrified but instead we are cautious,” El Maali said. “We take quarantine precautions very seriously and believe everyone should do the same.”

Essential workers must be: • • • • •

Pre-screened Regularly monitored Wearing a mask Social distancing Disinfecting and cleaning work spaces

Opinions Editor

iven recent events, communities around the world have seen both the best and the worst of humanity spring forward in response to COVID-19.

Donna Frawley, a paraprofessional at Hagerty made an impact when she went above and beyond the call of duty to deliver a laptop to an anonymous student in Sanford who had previously been doing all their schoolwork on

2. Thank you doctor Zoey Young

News Editor

germs.

“You can get very intimate with the food while working in the back, so it is important that we wear these face shields in order to not transmit any germs,” Steinebronn said. “It can get uncomfortably hot, but it is what we have to do to protect people.”

Chick-Fil-A has only kept their drive-thru open and limited the number of employees working at a given time, following many of the other restaurants nearby. Regardless of the stay-at-home order, it can still be busy at times.

“We have been getting more family orders, so sometimes we make eight sandwiches for one order,” Steinebronn said. “People like Chick-Fil-A, and people keep coming for Chick-Fil-A, regardless of the conditions.”

her cellphone.

Although she was incredibly appreciative of the recognition she received from Principal Frasca and her coworkers, Frawley insists that “no praise was necessary.”

“I was only doing what any staff member would have done in the situation,” Frawley said. “Everyone at HHS is working together as a team to make whatever adjustments need to be made to help the students in this unprecedented time.”

Sick with worry Zoey Young

W

Print Editor

ith the number of tragic deaths and horror stories growing daily, sophomore Jason Arcena was dreading one of his own. Arcena’s father, Henry Arcena,who works at rehab department in New Jersey. He had fallen sick, with fever and chills, despite following social distancing guidelines at work and wearing a mask.

Henry had taken care to remind his staff on precautions to avoid contracting the virus. He had previously believed that it was transmitted through water droplets from coughing or sneezing.

“Never in my mind, did I think I would get sick with this virus,” Henry said.

Arcena was overcome with emotion when he heard the news; as his father lives far away, it was difficult to reach out.

“My first reaction was to call my dad and ask him his condition and how he was; I cried about that,” Arcena said. “Me and my

family here could not do much.”

Henry immediately self isolated after feeling sick; over the course of the next week, he had visited the doctor and gotten tested.

“My course was eight days of on and off fever with chills. I started to get short of breath. I went to see my doctor for my second visit and my chest x-ray was done.

The result was bilat basilar pneumonia (infection of the lungs),” Henry said. “After my doctor visit, I got a phone call saying I am positive.”

Henry continued to stay hydrated and maintain his intake of Vitamin C. After getting over the worst of the symptoms, Henry expressed gratitude for his family’s prayers and encouragement.

Arcena celebrated his father’s recovery on social media and has since gained a new perspective on COVID-19.

“It made me think that it is more serious and dangerous but recovering from it would be a challenge. I believe people should take this more seriously and be more cautious,” Arcena said.

Hover over numbers for some fun

10

lifestyles

Passing time on less than a dime

Popular DIY YouTubers

Alexis Madlang

Staff Reporter

Rather than sinking deeper into the couch watching the ceiling fan twirl, sophomore Kayley Gilman decided to start painting again and learned to sew a dress during quarantine.

Gilman could not find the time for it during her regular school schedule, but while staying home she picked up her brush and needle for some DIY. DIY, short for Do It Yourself, is the activity of decorating, building, and making repairs at home by oneself for home improvement, fashion, “hacks”, or art. Over 100 YouTube channels are dedicated to creating DIYs, such as 5 min crafts, LaurDIY, Karina Garcia and TroomTroom. Several companies also make DIY crafting kits for bracelets, painting, squishies, slime, soap, perfume, and more.

Students like Gilman have found that making DIYs during quarantine has been a fun way to occupy time.

“I’ve done DIYs my whole life,” sophomore Kayley Gilman said. “Sewing, painting, redecorating our house, tie dye, pottery, making paper for birthday cards, really anything.”

Similar to Gilman’s previous DIY projects, she already has most of the materials she needed at home such as the acrylic paint, canvas and fabric pattern she had bought a couple months before quarantine.

Gilman sat outside to paint by herself, but also FaceTimed her friends so they could paint together. For her dress, she got help from her mom, who had previous experience with crafting and DIYs. Although the dress is not complete, Gilman is proud of her painting and excited to see the results for her dress.

Like Gilman, junior Ashley Munro says DIYs have been a part of her life, from doing them in her spare time to pottery and painting.

Munro was asked to make a ping pong table for her older brother while making some money. All Munro needed was for her brother to make the table with wood from Home Depot, then she began painting the logos as accurately as she could.

After two to three weeks of painting, Munro got used to painting every day.

“I felt accomplished because it took so long and I was glad to be done with it,” Munro said. “I finished and grabbed a canvas and painted some more.”

Sophomores Lauren Andres and Abby Nicolas took the fashion approach to their DIYs. Andres participated in the half-bleach jean trend and Nicolas cropped some shirts, or cut the shirts to a shorter length, that she had got from thrifting. Both girls decided to revamp their clothes by adding a twist.

Andres bleached her jeans after she saw it trending and thought she could do the same with an old pair of jeans. She

LaurDIY

This video: Lauren goes head-to-head with her boyfriend, in a blindfolded painting challenge Also on her channel: Completed series of DIY challenges, hacks, vlogs, and DIY room decor

HALF AND HALF Sophomore Lauren Andres poses in her finished half-bleach jeans. photo provided by Lauren Andres

found that the DIY was cheap and affordable since she had all of the materials at home.

“I was proud of what I did because they turned out really nice,” Andres said. “I felt accomplished because I wasn’t just wasting my time on Netflix or other things.”

Other than being proud of the result, Andres added that after doing the DIY, she wanted to do more up-cycling with other clothes she has.

Nicolas was also happy with her results and being able to see the end goal of having better looking shirts.

“I like learning to make new things and continue working to improve,” Gilman said. “I really enjoy being able to have the freedom to create, especially in a time like this where it is important to de-stress.”

5-Minute Crafts

This video: Fourty-two hacks that will help save money, such as how to erase sharpie Also on their channel: Craft ideas, life hacks, and Stay At Home videos to cope boredom

Rock painting DIY! Troom Troom

This video: 14 Weird Ways To Sneak Food Into Class / Back To School Pranks Also on their channel: Videos following home decor, accessory DIY, pranks, and life hacks

Life Saving DIY

After the shortage of masks due to COVID-19, one of the recent trends is DIY masks. Many videos have been made on the internet, covering multiple techniques of how to make a mask. Crafting and creativity is encrouraged more than ever through making custom masks that will also keep you safe.

Karina Garcia

This video: Karina makes 3 different lipsticks, and puts them into nail polish containers Also on her channel: Majority of her videos relate to the gooey slime she makes at home

Lifestyles

11

These lasagna chicken roll ups are killer. Photo by

Keep it simple with this blueberry muffin recipe that is to die for. Photo by Sally

Jessica Merchant

Mckenny

W This super easy Foccacia bread has less than ten ingredients and goes well with any meal. Photo

by Sarah Jampal

These Molasseses cookies are the best because they use ingredients already found in the farthest corner or your pantry.Video by Charlotte Mansur

Cooking in corona

Comfort is a rarity during quarantine, and nothing is more comforting than these cinnamon rolls. Photo provid-

by Charlotte Mansur

ith businesses and schools being closed due to the coronavirus, many of us find ourselves stuck at home with nothing to do. Some may flock to game consoles or bookshelves to help pass the time, but more than ever, it seems people are picking up a spatula. Cooking can be a fun way to get through quarantine, but for some of us the hobby has been tainted by these unfortunate circumstances. Coronavirus has changed the face of home cooking, and I am not here for it.

Suddenly every middle-age housewife thinks they are a professional chef. With more free time people have taken to social media to document every step of their latest recipe. If I have to see one more sourdough starter or banana bread on a Facebook or Instagram story, I am going to personally come over to feed the next loaf to the ducks. Just because you can mix water and flour in a Tupperware container and leave it out on your counter for a couple days, does not make you the next Gorden Ramsey, Karen.

It is because of Karen’s everywhere that grocery stores are looking more and more like my precalculus quiz sheet everyday, pretty empty. It is not like any of us are willing to brave a trip to the store for a jar of kalamata olives anyway. The shortage of ingredients have forced home cooks to become more resourceful when it comes to meals. Meatloafs and frozen tater tot casseroles have made a shameful comeback to dinner tables across the nation, or at least some of them. If you are anything like me, you may be living off of blueberry bundt cake and roasted potatoes, too.

Baked goods for dinner have become more common now that bakers have no one to give their treats to. There are no more staff meetings, dinner parties or even general gatherings to bring a plate of cookies to. The only option left for bakers is to eat all 24 muffins on their own, and as enjoyable as that might sound, the taste of vanilla extract gets gross after a while.

It is great that people are using their time to do something other than binge-watching all 356 episodes of Grey’s Anatomy in one sitting, but sometimes you have got to know when to put down the Tupperware and order some car

Broccoli chips are delicious and nutritious. Photo provided by Sprouting Zen

ed by Food Network

Nothing is more shareable than sheet pan nachos. Photo

by Joe Lingeman

This steak recipe is complicated enough so that you feel like a pro chef, but also has less than five ingredients making it perfect for quarantine. Photo by Stephen Johnson

Stuffed peppers are a way to dump the forgotten ingredients in your pantry into a delicious a nutritious vessel. Photo by Joe Lingeman

The best chicken and dumpling soup you’ve ever tasted Ingredients: One 4 pound chicken 1 carrot, cut in 2-inch pieces 1 celery rib, diced 1 onion, quartered Cold water 1 1/2 tsp. salt 4 tbsp. butter softened 1/4 cup of flour Salt and pepper

Directions: Place chicken and vegetables in a Dutch oven or large soup pot. Cover with cold water and bring the water to a boil. Once you reach a rolling boil reduce the heat to low and cover the pot for an hour. Meanwhile prepare your dumpling mixture. When the chicken is cooked take it out of the pot and pull the meat off the bone.

Bring the broth to a simmer, add salt and dumplings, then cover for fifteen minutes. Mix butter and flour and stir into the broth. Add the chicken and salt and pepper. Serve and enjoy.

You can use any basic drop or pie dough dumpling, but these are by far the best for this soup recipe.

Ingredients: 2 cups flour 3/4 tsp. salt 1 tbsp. baking 1 cup milk powder 3 tbsp. butter Super Soup The final product is a thick flavorful soup filled with veggies and chicken. Photo by Charlotte Mansur Chicken Dinner The whole chicken gets cooked with vegetables in a Dutch oven.

Photo by Charlotte Mansur

Directions: Whisk together the flour, baking powder and salt in a bowl. In a small saucepan bring the milk and butter to a simmer. Add the dry ingredients to the pan. Mix with a fork until the mixture comes together. Add to any hot broth and enjoy.

lifestyles

Fun activities to do when “hanging out” with friends

12

Face to face

Sharika Khondaker

N

Netflix Party/TwoSeven

Workout

Virtual Lunch

Jackbox Games

by Ddara

News Editor

othing seems odd about a group of friends playing a party game on a Nintendo Switch. The same Nintendo Switch being shown through a phone screen while on a video call with six other people, however, may not be what people initially picture. But, that is exactly what junior Kevin Cosio and his friends did when playing Jackbox, a multiplayer party video game, that was originally meant for in-person use.

Self-isolation and staying at home has become the new normal due to the coronavirus, and days consequently feel bland and repetitive for many students.

Although there is a physical barrier, that has not stopped students from using video calling platforms such as Zoom, Google Hangouts and FaceTime to “see” their friends and family. “[Playing Jackbox] has helped the situation feel more normal and gives me something to look forward to,” Cosio said.

During the quarantine, video conferencing apps have seen a drastic increase in downloads. According to Statistica.com, for the month of March, globally there were 38.2 million downloads for Zoom, Skype and Houseparty combined. With these apps, people can communicate in a different way, whether it be for meetings, class, or just to talk.

“I’ve reconnected more with friends from England who I didn’t have much time to speak to before,” junior Charlotte Razzell said.

New outlets for activities

by Darius Dan

“[My group] has group FaceTime calls almost every night now, and it has definitely strengthened our bond.”

- Sana Yooseph, 10

Painting

Poptropica

by Freepik

Mad Libs

Skribbl.io

Psych

Club Penguin

Turning to technology is not always a bad thing. Apart from reuniting with old friends, students find ways to have fun. Sophomore Sana Yooseph attempted to cut side bangs while on a group FaceTime call with her friends, taking inspiration from Instagram.

“My friends advised me against it, but I said ‘It will be a source of entertainment, I’m going to do it,’” Yooseph said. “Though it did not end up looking good and I have to [grow] my hair back, we all got a good laugh out of it.”

Teenagers usually enjoy watching movies together at theaters as well. However, with movie theaters shutting down, many have used the Netflix Party extension and others similar to it to watch movies and TV shows with one another. These extensions can be downloaded from the Chrome app store and they allow people to simultaneously watch something while still being able to chat with one another. To use it, one has to pull up what they want to watch and click on the extension to share the link to others, who can then watch it. Razzell used Netflix Party to watch “To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before” with her friends.

“It makes it easy to talk to each other while watching a show or movie that we all love. Plus, it makes it feel like we are together even when we are physically apart,” Razzell said.

Others video call their friends and play games while talking to each other, such as Club Penguin and Risk. Senior Aashni Patel plays Risk on her phone with seven people from around Orlando, talking with one another as they take turns.

“It keeps me from going crazy because it is nice to talk to other people besides my family. Normally, we do not talk often, but having a game night gives us an excuse to talk to one another,” Patel said.

Video calling others even allows day-to-day activities within the house to go by quickly. Eating lunch and working out may seem like menial activities, but for junior Shannen Chacon they became special. She eats lunch with her friends from time to time over a group FaceTime, and works out with a group over Skype.

“We have been doing workouts from YouTube together, rotating who picks the workout and then using the screen share feature so all of us can follow along at the same time,” Chacon said. “It makes me feel productive.”

Feeling the connection

by Freepik

Karaoke

“My friendships are becoming deeper. I know that once this ends, I’ll have a newfound gratitude and presentness in the time I get to spend physically with my friends.”

Shannen Chacon is typing...

Playing Cards

by Nhor Phai

“The few of that use Google Hangouts created a group to play Jackbox. Though it would not be the first people I would think of playing with, it made me closer to them.”

Kevin Cosio is typing...

The use of technology during these trying times has made an impact on people’s daily lives and relationships with others. For many, it tightened the existing bonds within friendships.

Before the outbreak, Yooseph did not text as often and communicate with people much outside of school, as she would rather interact with them in person.

However, her communication methods have adapted to the conditions. “[My group] has group FaceTime calls almost every night now, and it has definitely strengthened our bond. After all of this is over, I think we are going to continue FaceTiming more,” Yooseph said.

While video conferencing has strengthened friendships, it also strengthened relationships with loved ones. While most have been avoiding physical contact with their grandparents because of virus concerns, people are still keeping up with their older relatives to make sure they are in good health. Chacon has not been able to visit her grandmother who lives close by as often as she could before; instead, she opts to FaceTime her instead twice a week.

“It’s hard not to be able to visit with her, but she and I have both really enjoyed getting to use FaceTime to talk,” Chacon said. “Keeping relationships healthy is important in general, but even more so in a time like this.”

13

lifestyles Opening

"New Horizons" in quarantine

structure that people need to feel stable in their day-to-day, even Lifestyles Editor if it is as simple as logging on for 20 minutes to water some flowers and gather fruit.

A lot of students, like freshman Julia Lavoie, are also stressed lot of people are sick and tired of coronavirus and quarantining. It is the only thing on the news, it is over the transition to online school, even if it is meant to bring all anyone talks about, and it is hard to think about back some structure to students in its own way. However, New anything else. However, one of the most popular alternatives Horizons has proven to be a great pastime.

“It really helps with stress and it gives you something to do,” to moping around is turning to the newest, adorable addition to Nintendo’s life simulation series, Animal Crossing: New Lavoie said. “I think the game lets you have control over what’s happening, unlike what’s going on right now.”

Horizons.

Despite the stigma around how video games can limit The Animal Crossing series originated in 2001, and the social interaction, New Horizons actually has a lot of current installment launched on March 20. The massive opportunity for connecting with others— success that followed was phenomenal, whether using online play, in which surpassing 1.88 million copies within the up to eight players can meet up on first three days in Japan and reaching someone’s island, or local play, similar patterns around the rest in which up to four players can of the world. New Horizons has “When I pick up the game play simultaneously on the become one of the fastest selling there’s so much to do. I’ll lose same Switch.Nintendo Switch games, and track of time and play hour Lavoie enjoys online that is no coincidence. play, as it lets her keep in The announcement that after hour until it’s 4 a.m.” touch with her friends in a social distancing would be more entertaining way than a extended to April 30 in the U.S. has - Nathan Do, 11 “regular Facetime call.” But for deterred a lot of faith that normalcy those who may be exhausted with will soon return, but in the meantime, being holed up with loved ones for so New Horizons has quickly become the new long, the game is just as fun for solo players, favorite solution to surviving quarantine. and they still have the island residents to talk to.

“I think my dad felt bad that I was locked up inside the Interacting with the virtual villagers can be equally as house,” junior Samantha Sutch said. “So when I asked him for amusing as playing with other people, as junior Sacha Gilbert the game, he immediately said he would buy it for me.”

New Horizons prompts the player to create their own avatar learned early on in the game.

“I remember logging on on my birthday, and they had thrown and settle on a randomized island, where they can then do almost anything they want. Cute animal villagers who move in, a birthday party for me. It was pretty funny, since I couldn’t a new crafting system allowing creation of tools and furniture, have an actual party because of quarantine,” Gilbert said.

At first glance, Animal Crossing: New Horizons may come and the classic collect-a-thon aspect involving fishing, bugcatching and fossil-digging are staples of the game. If any off as a bland game that grows boring and repetitive after a few aspect of Animal Crossing has caught consumers’ attention, it hours of playing, but there is a reason the hype for it is so big and why people keep coming back to it. Earning Nook Miles, is how time consuming it can be.

“When I pick up the game there’s so much to do,” junior the new currency for special items, catching rare creatures to fill Nathan Do said. “I’ll lose track of time and play hour after hour the museum, and creating a beautiful island will leave players fulfilled and craving more for weeks to come. until it’s 4 a.m.”

“There’s always something to do in this game. Even when Self-quarantining has shattered regular structure, and although students must continue online schooling, it is still a you’ve grinded and collected abundant amounts of resources, new setting that does not follow the same rigid, seven-hour you can even chill in the game,” Do said. “I could watch my schedule. Games like Animal Crossing can fulfill some of that cute little character just visit other islanders for hours on end.”

Lukas Goodwin

A

Birthday Celebrations

Critter Collections

Fossil Excavations

Meteor Showers

Art Showcases artwork by Andrea Izaguirre and Alexis Madlang

14

lifestyles

Six feet of Andrea Izaguirre

S

Opinions Editor

ince being declared a global pandemic, the county has seen an incredible surge in face masks and an unprecedented lack of toilet paper in response to COVID-19.

To further prevent a large-scale outbreak within the community, numerous guidelines and instructions were set forth specifically encouraging social distancing. This has sparked a wave of controversy between those who remain glued to their phones waiting to receive the latest county update and those who continue to go about their daily lives unbothered. In response to the call for social distancing, students must now decide whether to oblige by the guidelines or continue to interact in public areas.

Waking up in a tropical paradise every day, junior Hannah Cannata has chosen the latter and remains unfazed by the increasing concerns surrounding the spread of COVID-19 and the demands made by officials and the public alike to practice social distancing.

Having spent the last few weeks with her friends in a beach condominium surfing and tanning, the news of the county-wide lockdown has not hindered Cannata’s plans at making the most of this unprecedented situation despite the warnings.

“I really thought social distancing was kind of stupid, I’ve already been around my friends for so long, what’s the point now?” Cannata said. “I think everyone needs to take a chill pill because it’s not that big a deal, if you’re concerned stay inside and if not, just do you.”

Juniors Izzy Pacheco and Kylee Ruf have followed a similar ideology. On April 2, a few days before the county officially went on lockdown, the two rushed to quickly put together a small birthday celebration for Ruf. “We didn’t think to take many precautions because we’d already hung out and been exposed to each other [before].”

Pacheco said.

Pacheco’s father Clay Pacheco had a say in the timing of the event as he had set his own rules in regards to the isolation of his home. “[Since the official start of] quarantine, our family’s been on lockdown. Nobody in nobody out, period.” Clay Pacheco said.

While some students have taken a relaxed approach to handling the social distancing orders, others and their families have heeded the guidelines,despite the difficult mental and physical repercussions.

Senior Chris Ballentine has found the separation from his peers especially difficult to maintain.

“Because it’s so unexpected, we never really got the chance to say our goodbyes to all our mutual acquaintances,” Ballentine said.

“It’s a terrible situation, but hopefully I can catch those going their separate ways during the summer because I know socializing during this time isn’t the best idea.”

Junior Jonah San Miguel has also struggled with maintaining friendships and connections while socially distancing himself.

“I wish there were some people I’d stayed in touch with during this time but they haven’t maintained a conversation or reached out...so I suppose it shows who you’re actually close with,” San Miguel said.

Students who choose to practice social distancing often experience increased feelings of isolation and loneliness according to Dr. David Dameron, a clinical psychologist at Mynd Matters Counseling in an article published by ABC News. Dr. Dameron suggests that changes in sleep, appetite and a loss of drive or enthusiasm are all common reactions to social isolation.

However, this is not the case for San Miguel. While he admits that the quarantine is taking a toll on his mental health in other ways, San Miguel’s concerns for others continue to outweigh his own desires and further his enthusiasm for social distancing.

“I’m so worried about receiving news of any of my friends or family testing positive or worse ending up in one of the

separation hospitals right now that I’d much rather just stay inside to avoid contributing to the spread at all,” San Miguel said.

Junior Emily Taylor also attributes her reasoning for supporting social distancing to the prevention of continuing the spread of disease.

“I originally didn’t choose to socially distance, it seemed like a decision based solely on fear,” said Taylor.

“But now I am socially distant for my friends, family and father. [He] works in healthcare and could be directly exposed at any time.”

Like Taylor, sophomore Abby Lee also experienced a change of heart when it came to social distancing.

“At first it wasn’t something I listened to because I didn’t think it would get as bad as it has,” Lee said . “But now I’m actually following the rules so this can go by faster.”

Given the recent surge in support of social distancing, Dr. Anthony Fauci, a top expert on infectious disease and member of the coronavirus task force stated at a White House press conference on Monday, April 6 that the drastic social distancing measures that some Americans have participated in seems to be having an effect in major disease hotspots, however Fauci warns against prematurely celebrating the results of social distancing.

The U.S. is currently reporting 981,246 active cases as of April 28, with 31,290 of those cases occurring in Florida.

For students like San Miguel, Ballentine, Lee and Taylor, the practical implications of socially distancing are worth the short-term sacrifices being made.

“I’ve experienced tragedy in my family many times and I certainly don’t want to cause that for someone else,” said Taylor. “If staying in my house for a few more weeks will support bringing the numbers down, so be it.”

CDC Social Distancing Guidelines According to CDC.gov

#1:

Stay at least 6 feet (2 meters) from other people. #2: Do not gather in groups and avoid making plans with numerous people in public and private areas. #3: Stay out of crowded places and avoid mass gatherings as people who do not practice social distancing put themselves at risk of becoming potential carriers, whether or not they exhibit symptoms.

Assimilating in groups can prolong the spread of disease and endanger large parts of a community. To ensure the safety of friends and family, stay at home.

To view Instagram posts uploaded by HHS students coping with social distancing orders, click the arrows.

sports

15

Spring sports canceled Noah Kemper

T

Staff Reporter

he cancellation for all spring sports teams is another example of the second and third order effects of COVID-19.

On Monday, April 20, the FHSAA announced on Twitter that they were canceling the remainder of spring sports for 2019-20.

When the corona virus outbreak occurred, it affected every spring. Sports like boys weightlifting were just finishing up their regular season heading into the district playoffs before being postponed and eventually canceled, while other sports such as volleyball only played three games of the regular season.

“I hate that the season is canceled because we worked so hard to only play seven games,” varsity third baseman Bryce Fitzgerald said.

“There is nothing else to do except sports so it’s disappointing.”

Throughout the delay and now with the cancellation, teams have had their own ways to condition and stay in shape.

“I’ve asked my players to run sprints, daily

sets of 16 and to time their 105’s independently three times per day and if possible, to continue working on their work skills,” boys lacrosse head coach Ken Hofer said.

“It would be disappointing if their high school season and careers end this way,” Hofer said. “Senior night, senior festivities and our end of the year awards banquet are all in limbo.”

FHSAA also announced that there would be no spring football practice and that, unlike college, no athletes would be granted an extra year of eligibility.

Prior to the cancellation, seniors were concerned this might be the end of their high school sports career and wanted to finish out the season. Even after the FHSAA announcement, they still hope there will be some chance to play.

‘Having your final season getting canceled right when things were heating up is really disappointing. It kills me knowing we will not be able to fight for the district title one last time,” lacrosse midfielder Cameron Garrison said. “A summer season would be something I’d be interested in, anything to just play lacrosse again.”

SURPRISE FINISH Between Trent Caples’ (top left) no hitter against Oviedo, Cameron Garrison’s face off win against Seminole (bottom left) Dylan Lujan’s kill against Lake Howell (middle) or Josh Bozzacco’s record lifts (right), there were big highlights despite abbreviated seasons in spring sports. photos

by Faith Marino, Madison Sophia, Ryan Schmitt

ATHLETE OF THE ISSUE who

Adam Gray

team

Boys volleyball

date

March 3

what

Leads team to first victory

where

*deadline is Friday, May 9

Oviedo High School On Tuesday, March 3, the boys volleyball team narrowly defeated rival Oviedo in five sets after a dominating performance by outside Adam Gray. After being tied two sets to two, the team pulled off a clutch 15-11 win in the fifth set. ”The more energy we had, the better we played,” Gray said. “It takes everyone to win.” Gray led his team to victory with 15 kills, two aces, and seven digs. With new coaches Tanner and Troy Buis, both teams finished their season 1-2 before the cancellation.

sports

16

Missing more than the game

Senior Grace Germer reflects on the season being cut short and what she misses most Hayden Turner

S

Sports Editor

enior outfielder Grace Germer has had a roller coaster softball career. From playing baseball with boys until she was 7 to travel softball, winning a state title, almost quitting, to a senior season comeback where she has been the leading batter for the varsity softball team.

Germer misses the sport more than ever now due to the coronavirus putting the season on hold. But getting on base and scoring runs is not what she misses most. She misses the constant that has remained through the years: her teammates.

“Working four years of your life just to have it taken away and not being able to play with the team you love, it’s heartbreaking,” Germer said.

She has played softball with a lot of the girls on the team at Oviedo Babe Ruth, including second baseman Courtney Ramirez, center fielder Angel Villanueva and shortstop Olivia Lipari. They would travel across the district to face other all-star teams in the district to advance to the softball world series.

“I have played with these girls since I was 8,” Germer said.

“All of us being on the same team and having the best time of our life plays as big motivation just to play with them now.”

Another aspect of playing with lifelong friends is that the team has great team chemistry, which can lead to success on the field.

Because of the relationship with Lipari and Villanueva in center field, they can work together to determine what ball the other can and cannot get.

“She has such an outgoing personality and when she is energetic on the field, it helps boost my energy,” Lipari said. “She talks about the goods and the bads about the game with us too.”

Prior to the season being cancelled due to the coronavirus, Germer had a batting average of .452, the second highest on the team, with 17 runs and three home runs. She is also the lead-off hitter for the team. Germer bats first and gets on base for her

teammates to hit and move her around the bases to score runs.

After losing six starting seniors, there was uncertainty in how their season would go. The team was 10-2 and riding a six-game winning streak, which included defeating 2019 state champs and rivals Winter Springs, 4-3. The team had great momentum going into spring break. They were holding on to the last bit of hope for the season to stay postponed, rather than cancelled.

“You can’t sugarcoat it,” Germer said. “Knowing that [the season] could be cancelled and never be able to play again, it sucked.”

Back in November, Germer accepted a scholarship to play junior college (JUCO) softball at Seminole State College and says she hopes to transfer to a Division I school in two years.

With graduation coming up, and other seniors playing at other colleges, this is not the ending that Germer envisioned.

“We were doing so good, but it was interrupted, and I can’t do anything about it,” Germer said. “The only thing I can do is be the number one supporter for the girls going to play in college and the girls that will still be playing at Hagerty.”

SPORT-LESS BLUES “The energy during the games and how fun it was playing with the boys.”

-Brian Camacho, volleyball “I miss not getting the chance to finish the season with an amazing team and going to practice to have fun and get better.”

-Angel Villanueva, softball “I miss going on the field and just playing with by boys.”

-Trent Caples, baseball “The team dinners and just beng with everyone before the games was fun.”

-Dominick Smith, lacrosse “I miss working out with by boys and the coaches. We had a great bond in the weight room.”

-DJ McCunney, weightlifting

HOME OF THE HUSKIES Outfielders(left to right) Grace Germer, Angel Villanueva and Josie Ormsby after the National Anthem against Winter Springs. photo by Erin Thornsbury

“I miss my team and the game days the most.”

-Erin O’Connor, lacrosse