The Lion's Tale - Volume 50, Issue 1

Q&A session with Kherington Payne, cast member of Fame and former “So You Think You Can Dance” contestant.

page 18

Find out how many hours it takes to prepare for a football game.

pages 14 and 15

LION’S TALE September 25, 2009

Volume 50

Issue 1

601 K ing Street

Stressin’ out

Oviedo, Florida

Homework increases with additional class period Nirvani Khan one extra class period because staff reporter they are gaining important time

J

unior Mackenzie Schweinberg comes home from an exhausting day at school. However, there is no time to relax because she has loads of homework to do. Unlike last year when she had only six classes to keep up with, she now has seven.

Schweinberg said, “From having a seven day period, I have twice the amount of homework. Since the classes were shortened I have to finish what we are doing in class along with all the homework I receive.

Also since I have more homework, I have less time to study and manage my time because homework is the priority because it’s usually due the next day for a grade.”

Sophomore Brandon Koller also shares this viewpoint.

“Now I have to cram four AP classes into my schedule, which puts more work on me, which causes an overall decrease in the time I can put into everything,” said Koller.

On the contrary, some students at OHS appreciate the addition of

management skills and they now have the ability to explore different electives.

Sophomore Haley Bolt said, “I think one of the newest things I am getting used to this year with seven periods is managing my time. Last year, I wasn’t really pounded with so much homework, so I didn’t have too hard of a time managing my time. AP World History is a great class, but requires so much work. It has really taught me to manage my time.”

Sophomore Karen Thomas efficiently manages her time by getting the majority of her homework completed at school, which lessens her burden after she gets home.

“My work ethic has changed because of the seven-period day. I see SEVEN, page 4

photo/KEVIN VELOSO

DASH TO CLASS. With only five minutes between classes

instead of seven, senior Emily Brown, junior Areianna Castro, and senior Callie Porcher rush to class after lunch.

New bell sc hedule causes students to quic ken pace Wesley Wynne

S

photo illustration/CARSON BAILEY

staff reporter

ophomore Amy McDaniel rushes to get from her chemistry class to her geometry class. As the bell rings, disappointment sets in. This will be another tardy.

“I’m late to my geometry class because I have to go from building 12 to building 5,” said McDaniel.

During the past three years, OHS has been under construction and the passing time was extended to seven minutes. But now with the construction over, time has been reduced to five.

And it’s not just the bell schedule that’s the problem. Many students have commutes all over campus.

“There’s not enough time to get to your classes,” said sophomore Sarah Davis. “And even if you don’t get to your locker you’re still late”.

Although some students do have problems getting around campus, administration believes that students have enough time to get to class.

“I walked from the top of building 13 all the way to building 5 between classes and had a few seconds to spare,” said Assistant Principal Greg Register.

Usually by this time in the year, teachers discipline students who are late a number of times. But this year, some teachers exercise leeway on tardiness.

“Obviously I can’t be [strict],” said science teacher Kathy Savage. “They are good students and I have checked their see PASS TIME, page 3

Board toys with idea of uniforms Hallie Lavery

S

staff reporter

eminole County Public Schools is considering adopting a private school trend - uniforms.

According to Orlando Sentinel staff writer Dave Weber, Seminole board members say the ineffective nature of the current dress code-which allows everything but mid drift shirts, the visibility of undergarments, or clothing baring offensive language and signals, is time-consuming to enforce.

“I have mixed feelings, but I wish it was stricter as a disciplinarian,” said Assistant Principal Greg Register.

The final decision for requiring uniforms President, Katie Morton said, “The School is in control of the Seminole County School Board wants to tighten dress code, they Board, not the individual school. say it would be easier if there was “There is going to be a uniformity. Oviedo and Hagerty committee of teachers, students, were the only schools [in Seminole parents, and even business people County] that didn’t want it. ” from the community to develop Specifics are still vague. the idea of uniforms,” said “I really don’t know anything Seminole County School Board about uniforms honestly, only that member Diane Bauer. it’s a topic for discussion,” said At this point in time, the Andres Vera ‘12 Register. uniforms would be pants with belt Officials are undecided. loops and a knit shirt with collars in varying “We really haven’t made any decisions colors, according to the Orlando Sentinel. yet about uniforms.” Bauer said.

Senior Student Government Association Opinions among students vary.

“We don’t need uniforms. This is high school. Uniforms don’t let people be individuals,” says sophomore Lisa May. Freshman Hanna Jordan shares her opinion.

“That’s terrible. You can dress yourself in different ways to express yourself, and show your unique style…you can’t do that if you have uniforms.”

Some people look at the idea of uniforms from another perspective.

“People aren’t disciplined enough and they should require it [uniforms],” Morton said. see UNIFORMS, page 6

2

News

September 25, 2009

News

The Lion’s Tale

Members offered chance to win

PTSA members: Don’t forget to pick up your free ice cream sandwich after each pep rally. PTSA members have a chance to win a two-night stay in Crystal River, so register today. Contact Shannon McClain at smcclain2@cfl.rr.com for more information.

PSAT test date and registration

The 2009 PSAT is scheduled to take place on Wed, Oct. 14, during the school day.

Juniors and freshmen who wish to take the test may register at the orange table in the center of the Commons for a fee of $20. All registrations and payments must be received on or before Oct. 9.

All sophomores are pre-registered, and need only to attend testing on Oct.14.

Eight seniors qualify as National Merit Semifinalists

Eight seniors qualified as semifinalists for the National Merit Scholarship, a scholarship based on the NMSQT/PSAT scores earned in sophomore year. These students, who represent the top 1% of PSAT scores in the nation, will apply for consideration to be National Merit Finalists.

National Merit Scholarship Semifinalists Paige Lenssen Amanda Eifert Victoria Persampiere Morgan Gill Jonathan Thomas Melissa Jones Eugene Katsevich Michael Yanckello

Student-led leadership and service club accepting members

Oviedo High School’s Key Club, sponsored by Deborah Boyarsky, is currently accepting new members. Membership fee is $15.

Meetings are held after school the first and third Tuesday of every month from about 2:30 p.m.-3:15 p.m. The Key Club is a studentled club that teaches students leadership and service skills.

Mane Attraction sponsors clinic

The Mane Attraction Dance team is hosting a dance clinic for boys and girls ages 5-17 on Oct. 3. The cost is $20 at the door. Participants will learn new dance skills, perform a dance routine at the end of the clinic, receieve a Mane Attraction bag, and may be selected to perform at the Mane Attraction Spring Show.

photo/COURTESY OF CAROL COULON-WOODS

MIND OVER MATTER. The InvenTeam (Senior Jordan Hugh Sam, senior John Johnson, graduate Nate Enos, and senior Devon Flynn) discusses business models with inventor Eben

Bayer at MIT. The InvenTeam was invited to spend about a week at MIT to present their eco-friendly, solor powered frost prevention device (called “Thermatent”) and to meet with accomplished inventors, scientists, and MIT alumni.

InvenTeam goes to MIT John Campbell

F

creating a cost-efficient way of keeping project,” said Hugh Sam. “I learned about

staff reporter Oranges from freezing in the winter. The taking my thoughts and turning them into a

or ten hardworking students, the Massachusetts Institute of Technology offered the opportunity of a lifetime.

“Working on such a large project took a lot of effort. We made many teams to organize different parts of the project. It was basically set up like a business is, with a marketing division, research division and what not,” said Senior Jordan Hugh Sam, a member of the team.

Earlier in the year, the InvenTeam entered their invention designs into EurekaFest, an MIT program designed to spark interest in engineering among students. A board reviewed the submitted designs and became interested in the project. The board concluded that the project has the potential to help Florida’s local orange farmers and boost the multibillion dollar orange market.

“I think that we were awarded the grant because our project was unique. It was one of the only ones that dealt with problems of agriculture in Florida. Many of the other projects focused on solving problems with people,” said Hugh Sam. Because of the project’s practical and useful applications, the board granted the InvenTeam $10,000 to continue research and development. Later, the project became known as the “Thermatent” project.

The Thermatent project focuses on

final product became a tent that completely tangible product, and I also learned how to enclosed the orange tree. The tent utilized work in a group efficiently,” Johnson enjoyed his experience at MIT. the greenhouse effect to warm the tree “I liked walking around at MIT. We during the day while storing energy with a solar cell on the top. At night, the stored saw some amazing projects by the world’s energy heated the tree from inside the tent. greatest minds and got to hang out with “We kind of stumbled onto our project them for a while. One of the projects was idea. We noticed that there was blankets about growing an insulator for houses using tied around trees to keep them warm during a mold and Styrofoam mixture, I thought that was pretty cool,” said winter and Johnson. started thinking of better ways The InvenTeam also “I learned a lot from working on this attended a SolidWorks to keep the trees warm.

The convention. SolidWorks project. I learned about taking my idea just stuck is a computer program thoughts and turning them into a that engineers use to with us, so we pursued it,” said create 3-D models of their tangible product.”

Hugh Sam. inventions.

Jordan Hugh Sam, ‘10 Later on, “SolidWorks is like an the InvenTeam Engineer’s Photoshop,” invited MIT said Johnson. “They use Alumni to help them with their project. it to design a visual model to help explain They came to visit the lab and see the their work to others.”

Thermatent project.

The program expanded Johnson’s “We were all very excited to work with understanding and inspired him to continue the Alumni,” said senior John Johnson, a to work hard.

“Just the experience alone was amazing. member of the team. “It gave us a chance to show off all of our hard work.”

Not many people get the opportunity to be The team had the opportunity to go to a part of a program like this. I know a lot MIT and showcase their invention along more about creating inventions now than with only 16 other high schools. The I did when I started. MIT was inspiring InvenTeam stayed in the MIT dorms and ate and really opened my eyes, these are the on campus while attending their showcase. people who will pave our future and set the “I learned a lot from working on this standard for us,” said Johnson.

Girls participate in program to spark interest in science Caitlyn Braswell

S

staff reporter

ophomore Rachel Brockman tore through sand dunes and dust attempting to maneuver a hefty Army tank. She swerved side-to-side trying hard to avoid the obstacles ahead of her, including innocent humans.

No, Brockman wasn’t in training to be shipped overseas.

Instead she and 30 other girls spent time this past summer testing a simulation program for military troops as part of their learning experience in the Tri-IT group.

“Over the summer we went to research park over by UCF and drove the simulator cars that they use to train people in the Army. We learned how they work and what they are used for. I think so far that’s been my favorite thing,” said Brockman.

Science teacher and Tri-IT mentor Christine Clark explained that the simulator was specifically built to help teach people new to the military to drive tanks overseas.

“The girls would drive the simulator on one computer and the other one would record their progress. At the end of their drive the computer would calculate how they did and how many people they killed while they drove,” said Clark.

Tri-IT, a program which specifically targets girls, helps foster an interest in technology and the related careers.

“The program was created by the National Science Foundation as a kind of experiment. It’s been created to see if after two years these girls who joined will be more likely to follow and use technology as part of their future careers,”

said Clark.

Last year, freshman girls all attended an assembly specifically held to interest them in joining the Tri-IT program.

Those interested applied and a total of 30 girls were accepted into the two year program.

“I want to be a pharmacist. When I heard about this group last year I was really intrigued in everything it had to offer. It has a lot of science involved and I had friends joining so I made sure I applied,” said sophomore Victoria Fairman.

Clark, who monitors the girls’ progress and encourages them during the meetings, says everything is run under the National Science Foundation’s criteria.

“Every part of Florida that is under the Tri-IT program is involved in a different part of the science field. One part of town works with GPS while our team works with things like podcasting and the ALICE program,” said Clark.

The Tri-IT area includes Winter Springs, Hagerty and Lake Howell High Schools.

“We get to talk to the other Tri-IT girls through webcams sometimes during our meetings. It’s cool to see what they have been up to because they are doing other projects that are focused on other fields like GPS,” said sophomore Simone James.

Other projects the girls learned and continue to work on is the ALICE program.

“The ALICE program is this simulation project where we create these 3-D worlds and we can change things around kind of make our own world out of it,” said James.

Along with learning about new technology, the girls also get their hands on free items like USB hub ports and possibly even iPods.

“We have gotten a few cool items through the program. photo/ COURTESY OF CAITLYN BRASWELL We’ve been HAPPY SCIENTISTS. Tri-IT participants Rachel told we may Brockman, Simone James, Nirvani Khan, Allie Boardman, get iPods as and Marija Cokovski snap a photo in front of SCC. The girls well. I would represent only a small portion of the total participants in be pretty happy Tri-IT, a program to establish interest in science careers for if we did end young women. up with them,” said Brockman.

The Tri-IT group plans to stay together for their required two years.

“Our school doesn’t fund this program. It entirely relies what the National Science Foundation decides. If they apply for another grant for a program than maybe it will be available for future students,” said Clark.

The Lion’s Tale from PASS TIME, page 1 schedules and they actually come from across campus.”

Teachers may not be strict on tardiness, but the front office is. However, a limited number of students have arrived in the office for tardies.

“Very few [disciplined] so far,” said Register.

“Only two to three. We’ve looked at their schedule and worked it out with them and most of them confessed that they were talking to their girlfriends.”

Students are getting to class, but some would prefer that the passing time to be lengthened.

“It should be back to seven [minutes],” said McDaniel. “It’s easier.”

Some teachers agree.

“I think six minutes would have been more reasonable,” said Spanish teacher Cyndy Miericke. “Students need to go to their lockers, use the bathrooms, and walk to class in a very limited amount of time. Some students say that they have no time to go to their lockers so they carry everything in their back packs.”

But it doesn’t appear that the intervals are changing.

On Monday, Sept. 14, the school introduced the new warning bell. The warning rings a minute before every class, so students will know that the bell will be ringing.

But why would the school need a warning bell anyway?

“My guess is that many students were late to class,” said Miericke. “Also I heard that the other high schools in Seminole County have warning bells.”

Even though the reasons for having a warning bell are unknown, it does work and people think it helps students.

“I do,” said Register. “Students hear the bell and it clicks in them to get to class.”

With the inclusion of the warning bell, the five minutes between classes probably aren’t likely to be changing anytime during the year.

And of all the changes made, the new time between classes appear to be the least welcome.

“I think even 30 seconds would make a huge difference,” said Savage. “I would like to see it be six or seven minutes.”

September 25, 2009

News

START

END

START

END

Timed Trial

In an effort to record the difficulties of the new bell schedule, Co-Editorin-Chief Miranda Ghali put the five-minute passing time to the test. In a two-day trial, she spent one day moving between her classes at a brisk pace, without any stops in between. She made it on time to all of her classes, with an average passing time between them of about four minutes.

On the second day, Ghali squeezed in small tasks such as locker stops and talking to the teachers between her classes. Ghali was late twice and walked into one class as the bell was ringing. So, The Lion’s Tale’s verdict? While it is possible to go cross-campus in five minutes, mid-day locker stops are oftentimes impossible.

Half Page Citizen’s Bank Ad. This ad is NOT MADE yet.

If you know anything about it, tell Tori!!

3

4

News

September 25, 2009

The Lion’s Tale

Teens speak out about healthcare Miranda Ghali and Jordan Hugh Sam competition usually works better co-editor-in-chief and co-opinion editor than the lack of competition,”

W

ith medical debts as the leading cause of said Musante.

Vera experienced first hand, bankruptcy and Americans spending more per person on health care than any other nation, the current health care system.

“My mom was diagnosed the call has been sounded for health care reform. President Barack Obama got into office by promising change to this with cancer about two years ago. country. Currently, he is working with Congress on a health Yeah, we had Medicaid at that time and through Medicaid they care reform plan to do just that.

As of now, Obama keeps away from giving any specific could operate on her and if she details on a plan, but across the political divide, debate had to go to chemo[therapy] she rages whether a government-run system of universal health could, but we still had to pay a lot. My dad would get paid, and care should exist.

Senior Pearson Danecker expressed satisfaction with basically 90% of what he earned went to health insurance,” said the current health care system.

“I think that as of right now our health care is fine, Vera.

The effects of the low income people work and put health care at the top of the list of things to pay for, and those who don’t have it, usually don’t for the Vera family show.

“Since my mom couldn’t work,” said Danecker. work and my dad was the only Senior Shelby Weisinger agrees. one working, we lost the house.

“People should get what they earn,” said Weisinger. photo/VICTORIA PERSAMPIERE Weisinger’s biggest issue with universal health care We had to sell the house and we FREE HEALTHCARE. Cathy Lowe assists former student Alex Williams with a torn ligment in the have to move to an apartment,” involves paying for others.

Ahtletics Department.

“Other people will have to pay for other people,” said said Vera.

Weisinger. “It’s stupid because people that can afford it Through all of this, Vera is still pay, but if you don’t pay the government gets charged appreciative of the health care he does have. shouldn’t be pushed to pay for other people.” right there,” said Miller. “That money goes to the IRS and “If we didn’t have health care it would have been you have to pay, the government back through taxes with Sophomore Daniel Vera, on the other hand, thinks that’s impossible. Even if you have health care, it’s interest, so its paid and they are making money off of it, but a key part of the plan. barely possible to keep up with it.”

“At first not a lot you are covered when you go to the hospital.

“We need a national discussion Vera supports America adopting universal The plan even covers illegal immigrants.” of people will approve health care like in Canada and France in which of it [Obama’s health rather than a national shoutin “If there is an illegal and they can’t pay, their country taxes pay for medical treatment. care changes] because it is charged and if the country doesn’t pay it, then [it’s taken Danecker disagrees. involves a lot of people Alan Musante, away from] the money that we send that country in aid,” “I think that the whole idea for health care for said Miller. helping out each other and Economics Teacher everyone is great, but the quality is not. They have sometimes people want to Even with such widespread opinions, there is one thing slow doctor’s offices and sometimes don’t get that almost everyone agrees on: America does need some be greedy and they don’t treated if the injury is considered mild,” said Danecker. want to help each other out,” said Vera. type of reform.

There are also those that are for some type of reform, Economics teacher Alan Musante also wants reform, Musante said, “I think it really truly is one of our most but don’t necessarily agree with Obama’s plan. Junior important issues in the country and I wish that everyone but not a total government take over.

“I think that it should be a mixture. I think that it would Allison Miller read about a plan and thinks that it’s the best would stop yelling at each other about it and settle down and be a mistake to go totally private or totally public. There idea she’s heard. really think it through because we need to get it right. We “When it comes to going into a hospital, if you don’t need a national discussion rather than a national shouting are some parts of our population that are best served by the government, that is publicly financed, and on the other hand have insurance or you are paying out of pocket, you can match.” information as last year, but have weeks less from SEVEN, page 1 now have to do more during classes and lunch of time for instruction. They practically run a because the teachers don’t have as much teaching marathon everyday. Everyone taking time and therefore give more homework. any AP is definitely at a disadvantage. We This can get very overwhelming and since have to complete the same course and take the I don’t want to have to stay up late doing same test as everyone before us, but now we homework, I have to do most of it during have much less time.” school,” said Thomas.

However, sophomore Ed Miller believes Still, other students believe that the seven the shortened class periods are good. period day hasn’t changed their work ethic “I really hated being in a class for [almost] at all. a whole hour [last year] and those extra eight Sophomore Garrett Urban said, “My minutes made a pretty big difference,” Miller work ethic haven’t really changed because said. of the seven period day, it just adds more In addition, the social lives of some OHS time to my homework.” students have also been impacted with the Some students feel that, due to the eight- inclusion of a seventh period. minute reduction in each class from last year, Sophomore Allyssa Appleget said, “My it’s challenging to learn the teachers’ daily free time has been affected a lot. On school lessons because teachers don’t have as much days, the whole time I am at home, it’s all time for long explanations. homework. I don’t have time for anything else, “The seven-period day cuts all class time especially because I took difficult classes this and I have less time to year. The teachers learn. On Wednesdays, assign a lot all the classes are a more homework “It’s a lot of stress to deal with. At waste because as soon they have first, I was overwhelmed. I’ve never because as we start taking any less class time, notes, class is ending. been challenged like this before. so now I have to On regular days, class spend all my free discussion is cut and so Colleen O’Kennedy, ‘11 time catching up.” are lessons. I have four Others do not AP classes and three believe that the of them suffer because seven period day we don’t have time. Because we can’t cover affects their social events and activities. new material well, we end up having a “My free time hasn’t been affected. We copious amount of homework that is only still get out of school at the same time and that half understood,” said senior Alan Zegarra. still gives a lot of time after school. Besides Junior Blaire Scheller agrees. maybe the 10-30 minutes of extra homework Scheller said, “Teachers are definitely every day, everything just seems the same,” feeling the pressure with the shorter class said sophomore Colton Jaqueth. periods and shorter time between classes.

However, the seven period day is not They are required to teach just as much entirely blamed for the increase in school

work and the decrease in free time. are also impacted by the seven period day Sophomore Omar Mulero said, “My free and they also believe the students are time has been cut, but I don’t believe it’s from impacted strongly, whether they think there seven periods, I believe it’s from AP classes.” are negative effects, or positive effects.

Stress has also increased among some Biology teacher Lynn Klemann said, students, but they’re adapting.

“It will be very difficult to get a lab done “The stress is probably the worst thing and then cleaned up in fifty minutes. On about the seven period day because it’s Wednesdays, I think it will be almost horrible when you look at the clock and impossible. Some labs may be able to be it’s midnight and you still have divided into two parts. The AP five more pages to read and take Biology labs will be very difficult notes on or you have three more to accommodate. Up to this point, problems to do. [Also] it’s kind I have been agonizing over what of depressing when you look at a activities I will have to leave out problem and you have no earthly and what topics to omit. In AP idea how to do it,” said sophomore classes, with the national exam at Sarah Kaiser. the end of the year, this shouldn’t Junior Colleen O’Kennedy has be done.”

Kathy Savage a related point of view when it Chemistry teacher Kathy comes to stress.

Savage said that she is still adjusting “It’s a lot of stress to deal with. lessons to fit in the shorter time At first, I was overwhelmed. I’ve never been periods and has to give out more homework challenged like this before. However, I’ve to make up for time lost in class. adapted, and I know how hard I need to work Savage said, “So far, I’ve found that to maintain good grades in my AP classes I have had to assign more homework for while also focusing on soccer,” O’Kennedy both my honors and advanced placement said. classes. There is not enough time to go over Though, stress is not an issue for some problems in class that students are having students. trouble with so they either have to somehow “Because I’m in marching band and going figure out where their difficulties lie on their to play sports like soccer and track, it makes own or find ways to stay after school for it a little bit harder to get in all the homework extra help.” from seven periods. But, I’ve been able to On the other hand, interior design teacher manage it so far this year,” said junior Sadie Janice Latimer is very fond of the seven Yanckello. period day and thinks it is beneficial.

Sophomore Malinda Bass ensures she has “I don’t think students are disadvantaged. time to take a break from time to time.

They are forced to plan. To me, that is an Bass said, “At times, no matter how much advantage,” Latimer said. “I believe in homework I have, I’ll just fit in some breaks students taking many electives in school. It here and there to relax at least for a little bit.” builds their steam, so they’ll try harder.”

Not only students, but teachers themselves

OHS B - rated, despite high FCAT scores last year

The Lion’s Tale

September 25, 2009

factors including the graduation rate, the students get the help they need, the school is

Carly Brower number of students enrolled in advanced considering home visits. co-diversions editor placement courses and those who pass, as “Once we identify students who are still

W

hen teachers came back to school many were shocked to discover that the school grade dropped from an A to a B. In the past seven years, OHS received only one B for the school grade. After reviewing last year’s FCAT scores, results show that the lowest quartile or the lower 25 percent of students in ninth and tenth grade dropped from a 58 percent to a 44 percent in reading. All schools in Seminole County dropped with the exception of Crooms High School.

“The school grade is based upon the number of a points in each FCAT section.

In order for an A you need 50 percent of the lowest quartile to make a learning gain in reading and math or under 50 percent the prior year make a one point gain,” said Principal Robert Lundquist. “So for next year if we go from a 44 percent to a 45 percent then we are good.”

The school prides itself on being an A school and it is a privilege that not all schools have.

“I definitely think it’s better for our school to be an A and I hope that we will get back to an A,” said senior Stefanie Cortes.

This year the school grading will be based on some new factors to help establish a more reliable scale.

“We will be graded on numerous other

well as dual enrolment,” said Lundquist.

“They will also look at students test scores on the ACT, SAT, and the CTP and if current seniors came in as ninth graders with a level one and two in reading and math then 75 percent of those students must graduate.”

The graders will also be monitoring students taking an industry certified exam such as auto mechanics, childcare, interior design, and computer courses. In order for this year’s students to become more motivated, the school is brainstorming ideas.

“Motivating students to work harder in school is a challenging force because some struggle. Our teachers are trained and have the best strategies to help students be more proficient. We have writing and reading workshops to help out as well,” said Lundquist. “Our math scores are outstanding so we are focused on reading and writing.”

This year a single person instead of two people will grade the writing exam on the FCAT. “If there is a disagreement between two scorers then the student would receive the average of the two scores whereas with one scorer they have the possibility of receiving a higher score,” said English teacher Don Cadwallader.

During the school year there will be more progress monitoring and in order to ensure

Mary R. Isaacs, D.M.D. www.DrMaryIsaacs.com

F a m il y

5965 Red Bug Lake Rd. Suite 233 Winter Springs, FL 32708

DENTISTRY

(407) 696-5210

Oviedian Yearbook 2009-2010 On sale now

Senior Ads are due to Mrs. Pope in room 05-021 by

$70 October16th To our friends the Oviedo Lions:

Buy one ICE or GELATI, Get one FREE! Equal size or smaller only.

Must present this coupon.

One coupon per order per visit.

Must be used before April 1, 2010.

Love Every Outrageous Spoonful™ 3573 Aloma Avenue, Oviedo (Next to 417 Greenway and Kohl’s) 407-657-LEOS (5367) www.LeosIce.com

struggling and who can benefit from home visits we may come by just to let them know we care and connect with their parents in order to build a learning relationship between home and school and bridge the gap,” said Lundquist.

One of the consequences of not being an A school is that the teachers do not receive a bonus.

“I do think that basing the bonus on the school grade does give the teachers an incentive to do a good job, but I don’t think it should be based on one test,” said American History teacher Scott Salvatoriello.

The school also has a peer tutoring program that pays the student $15 per hour.

“To qualify for the program the student who wants to tutor must have a teacher recommendation and an A or B in the subject they wish to teach,” said guidance counselor Marcia Lightsey.

After the application has been approved, the school prints a list of the tutors.

“They pick one person and they may contact the tutor to set something up. The tutoring only has two rules; that it cannot be on school time or on the school campus,” said Lightsey.

Students who need help tend to need the help in math or a foreign language but if the student needs help in a different subject then

News

5

Making the Grade

V V

OHS has been rated an A+ school for six out of the last eight years.

That’s more than any other school in Seminole County.

OHS earned the highest district scores on FCAT for 10th grade in 2009.

the school will find someone.

“We aren’t really relying on it more to bring up the school grade because we’ve always had this program,” said Lightsey.

The drop may also affect real estate.

“Families want to give their family the best quality education,” said Watson reality agent Monica Campbell. “The ratings of a school has tremendous impact. Even with older couples with no children they have to consider how living in a place with a low rated school grade can effect the value.”

Campbell explains that 85-90 percent of families ask about the local school.

“Even though OHS has dropped to a B it may only have a little effect. It’s not as bad as a C or D and a B school will have a stronger ability to go back to an A,” said Campbell.

6

News

September 25, 2009

The Lion’s Tale

School starts with scheduling problems

Unexpected packed classes greet teachers, students Julia Thorncroft

T

co-opinion editor

he school year began with crowded classes and incomplete schedules.

Junior Kaitlyn Bailey had to wait three hours in line to get her class fixed on the schedule pick-up date.

“Three hours waiting, five minutes in the room. And that was with me not being difficult,” said Bailey. “I took the first class she suggested. They treated me okay, once I got up there. I felt bad for this one kid though. About an hour and a half in, they tell us everyone with holes in their schedule for second semester should come back the first day of school.

He was at the front of the line, but he had to leave.”

Several of the schedule conflicts resulted from students having holes in their schedule. Bailey was one of the students who had that same problem.

“I’m not really angry about the hole in my schedule or anything. I mean, I don’t get why they couldn’t just look at my alternative classes when there was a problem. I thought that’s what those were for,” said Bailey.

While students like Bailey may question the scheduling process, the administration has an answer to that particular question.

“Before the student schedules are made, we have to photo/KEVIN VELOSO create schedules for the teachers,” said Principal Robert PASS THE SALT. Julia LoTempio, Michael Moore, and Cole Wheeler put together a dish in their Nutrition and Wellness class. “It’s harder with the shorter classes because Lundquist. “Schedules are made through the computer. Once we don’t really have a lot of time to cook and eat,” said Julia LoTempio of her food prep class. “But we measure the day before, so we just have to mix the ingredients together we organize the teacher schedules, we figure the amount of the next day.” students enrolled in that class. We then reduce the amount of elective teachers are not the focus.

“Mainly, the guidance counselors do that work. I do the students [if required].”

“Electives are designed for larger classes,” said Lundquist. class counts. These larger classes are why we had so many Evidently, some schedules conflicted which resulted in “You wouldn’t level a band class because band is supposed body counts at the beginning of the year. Every night, I bring students having holes in their schedules. to have a large amount of students. What we’re focusing on home this paper and check to see which classes are more “When the computer made up the schedules for the is the academic courses.” crowded than others,” said McCarthy, presenting a chart teachers, it gave most teachers their plan period during Currently, 35 teachers have classes with over 150 with writing over every inch. fifth and seventh period. This explains why most students students, 23 of the teachers teach academic courses.

Teachers with plan periods fifth and seventh hour isn’t had holes during those classes. It also explains why there “It’s definitely more difficult this year than last year,” the only reason for heavier classes. The seven period day are smaller classes in the morning and larger classes in the said AP Human Geography teacher Jason McDonald. also factors in. afternoon,” said Lundquist.

Last year, McDonald taught 110 students. This year he’s “The seven period day gave students more options for Recently, the school focused on teaching 172, that means he has 62 more classes,” said Lundquist. “So there are more classes, but leveling out larger classes. students than last year and 22 students same number of teachers.”

“The contract says whenever Having larger classes may not be as big of a problem this “It’s difficult with the shorter days above the contract guideline of 150 practicable, class size will be 150 students. year as it will be for next year, when the school has to follow from seven periods. It feels like or less. That is a catch phrase for ‘if “It’s difficult with the shorter days the Class Size Amendment, a law that determines the amount we have to sprint all day long.” we can, we will do it, but there are from seven periods. It feels like we have of students per classroom. no guarantees’,” said the Lake Mary “They [school board] want everyone to follow the Jason McDonald, to sprint all day long,” said McDonald.

High School faculty representative “For me, it’s like having two extra classes. amendment. For right now, our numbers of teachers need AP Human Geography When I get home, and I have to grade extra to match our numbers of students, which they do,” said for the Seminole Education Association (SEA), Dianne Burd. papers, I feel exhausted.”

McCarthy.

The SEA is the teachers union Because McDonald teaches an The Class Size Amendment intends to lower the ratio of for Seminole County’s school district. According to their Advanced Placement course, some of his classes have students per classroom. The ratio varies by grade levels. For website, the SEA represents all teacher-based employees in leveled by students dropping the class. example, the limit for pre-kindergarten through third grade Seminole County and is recognized as the bargaining agent “I was loaded with freshmen this year,” said McDonald. is 18 students per classroom. For fourth through eight grade, for teachers. The faculty representatives attend a monthly “But Mrs. McCarthy has been nice in helping to get classes the limit would be 22 students per class. For high school, the meeting to gain the latest information in local, state, and to a manageable level.” ratio is 25 students per class. national levels.

Junior Carissa Phillips understands why it’s difficult for According to McCarthy, the Class Size Amendment “SEA has no role in enforcing class size because it is teachers to deal with extra students. won’t be enforced until next year, but the issue of crowded a state amendment,” said Burd. “If the state goes against “Some teachers have said that having a small class classrooms still lingers. their own law, SEA can’t change it. I believe that schools gives them a chance to do certain activities with their Recently, rumors spread stating that the school plans on are allowed to still use the average class size for the whole students. But larger classes dont seem to be that big of an hiring new teachers to level classes. Lundquist stated that the school. That means that although some teachers have 160 inconvenience.” school plans to hire a reading teacher, but not necessarily to kids, others have less than 100, so the average fits within the Working with the guidance counselors, assistant principal level classes. parameters of the amendment.”

Anna McCarthy has personally been leveling classes since “We’re still working on reducing classes over 150. We’re Although OHS is currently working on leveling classes, the beginning of school. trying to level classes the best we can,” said Lundquist.

School board considers mandating uniforms from UNIFORMS, page 1 Sophomore Hayley Carter-Fredrickson attended Saint Luke’s Lutheran School several years before coming to OHS. Their uniforms consisted of knee-length shorts, collared shirts-required to be tucked in, closed toed shoes, belts, and school jackets.

“The uniforms were all right I guess. Uniforms won’t affect self-esteem either because everyone looks equally bad,” Carter-Fredrickson said.

Crooms School of Information Technology in Sanford Florida requires students to wear a standardized dress code of polo shirts-in school colors, khaki or black slacks, shorts, or skirts, and an assortment of school sweatshirts or jackets every school day.

Current Crooms sophomore Tiffany Swinney said, “I think uniforms make some people feel like they fit in better.

I mean you probably know Crooms has a reputation for nerds. But some people want to express themselves in the way they want to dress.”

But expression and personal style isn’t the only thing

that might change if a new dress code is put in effect. Student behavior could also take a toll.

“I think student behavior might change because some students dress a certain way to express themselves. If there was a uniform, that same minority would find new ways to express themselves,” said new security officer Jermaine Walton.

However, Osceola County officials believe that uniforms improve behavior. “ It would probably change behavior. People would have to completely alter the way they dress, and people wouldn’t really listen,” freshman Justin Hall said. “And what about people who can’t pay for uniforms…the school would have to pay for them,” In the tough times of the economy, expenses for a secific dress code don’t fit some peoples budget.

“I don’t like brining them in [uniforms] during these tough times with money,” said Register.

Swinny says the uniforms at Crooms are kind of expensive.

“All the kids have to buy the uniform, but kids who don’t have money for it, I think the school will get them some,” Swinney said.

Former Crooms student Andres Vera said, “At times I liked wearing the uniforms [at Crooms] because you look more professional, and if affects how you act in school.”

Despite Vera’s experience at Crooms he said, “I wouldn’t recommend it, only if you want to be in the business kind of world like Crooms.”

Swinney relates to Vera’s statement. “ It’s easy to get dressed in the morning though because you don’t have to pick something special. You just throw on your uniform. It’s sort of nice, but I’d still rather not have them,” Swinney said.

According to the Orlando Sentinel, officials plan to solicit public opinion during the next several months before making a decision.

Bauer said, “It’s not going to happen over night, there will be plenty of time for people to have their feelings and opinions heard.”

The Lion’s Tale

September 25, 2009

News

7

Swine flu kills exam exemptions

Victoria Persampiere

E

news editor

xam exemptions are no more, thanks to the recent outbreak of Swine flu.

“A county-wide decision was made based on the info from the Health Department and with approval from the school principals,” said principal Robert Lundquist. “The decision was made due to the potential for a swine flu epidemic, and with the expectation that it would be prevalent in Seminole County schools this year. We felt that it just wouldn’t be fair to penalize students for contracting the swine flu.”

The H1N1 strain has proven to be an issue already. With 102 confirmed cases of the swine flu in Seminole County this season and the CDC declaring the entire state as seeing “widespread” swine flu, some students are taking up to a week off of school to recuperate from positivelyidentified infections. (cdc.gov) “I couldn’t come to school for a few days because I got the swine flu,” said senior Emily Blair. “I just felt really slow and achy, and I had all the symptoms of the regular flu times two.”

Despite the rising number of students who contracted the flu, however, there is much debate about whether or not the lack of exemptions will be beneficial overall, or end up hurting students’ grades and attendance. Previously, students who maintained a certain grade average and a low number of absences (three or less, depending on the grade earned) were permitted to skip semester exams without penalty. Now, attendance will be mandatory.

“Personally, I think it’s going to cause more people to skip more because they feel like they don’t need to work and come to school.

I think, instead, that students who bring in a doctor’s note saying Emily Blair that they had the swine flu should be able to have the absences not count against them. This way, students are not all being punished for the sake of the few who do get sick.” said Blair.

According to assistant principal Anna McCarthy, absenteeism has been on this rise. “We know that there are definitely more people absent this year than last year.

Last year, according to Ms. [Jean] Davis, we saw 50-65 students out each day. Now,

we see a lot more than that.”

“I can honestly say that I’ve Most of these absences are not due to seen at least one to two students confirmed cases of swine flu. who are absent in each of my “Because more students, I believe, who classes,” said Pateraki. “It’s have a headache or a low-grade fever stay been my experience that upper home, we have level students seen a drop in [in Honors attendance,” and AP] will “We felt that it just wouldn’t be fair said Lundquist. only to penalize students for contracting sometimes “Absenteeism attend class the swine flu.” has increased, because of the but it will not Robert Lundquist, exam exemptions factor into the if their grades are Principal okay. But I school grade – that’s graduation haven’t rate, which is an s e e n entirely different matter.” much of a difference for Teachers are uncertain about the potential my standard classes, repercussions of the new exam exemption since a lot of the time policy, as well. a good portion of the “I get it, I really do. I just wish we could class takes the exams have known about this at the end of last year, anyway.” so students could have known not to load up Even the exams on five or six AP classes and are now stuck themselves may be taking the exams,” said AP English teacher different this year.

Tom Jesse. “It’s a really raw deal. And it’s Due to the fact that all not just a raw deal for AP or Honors kids – I students will be required mean, even for average students, that was to take two vigorous their reward for coming to school and doing exams back-to-back in well. Most good kids who want to learn will each of their classes, come, but for everyone else is really just Lundquist has offered provided an extra incentive. It’s good that the teachers a little we’re trying to keep sick kids home, though leeway.

– every year I get sick three or four times from my students.”

“To me, having two Jesse is not the only teacher who has tests right on top of each been healthier this school year. other like that seems “I usually get a cold after the like a little much. We first week of school, but this year give comprehensive I didn’t,” said english teacher Kate exams each nine Kameraad. “I don’t know if that’s weeks, so the because of the new policy keeping semester exam can sick students out of school, or just be a bit redundant.” because of all the hand sanitizer said Lundquist. “So I’m using now.” we’re giving teachers ‘10 Lundquist has made it clear that freedom as to how the changes do not extend merely they administer the towards keeping students who are nine weeks and semester exams. sick out of the classrooms. The school has Teachers can choose to combine also ensured that each classroom has hand the exams by administering only sanitizer readily available for student use, one test, or giving projects or and teachers have been instructed to send another assignment in place of one all students who exhibit flu-like symptoms of the tests.” to the clinic.

However, Lundquist stresses that Kameraad, Courtney Pateraki, and the nine weeks exams will still count Coral Duffy-Erskine all report seeing for 25% of a student’s total grade, fewer students on average in their English regardless of the form in which it is classes. administered.

Swine flu myths a a a

Swine f l u can only be caught through direct contact with a pig.

Consumption of pork can infect you with swine f lu.

Swine f lu is a never before seen version of the normal f lu.

a a

There is not a vaccine for swine f lu in humans.

Swine flu is more deadly than the average f lu.

GLOBAL PANDEMIC PANIC.

Senior Chris Rybicki sports a surgical mask to illustrate the panic that swine flu is causing nationwide. In reality, masks have little to no link to the prevention of the H1N1 virus, which is small enough to slip through the fibers in the mask.

photo/JORDAN BRANCH

The truth about swine flu a

Symptoms of swine f lu are very similar to normal f lu like

a

Swine f lu can be caught through direct contact with an infected pig or contact with another infected person.

a

There is a new, controversial vaccine for swine f lu.

a

The first time swine f lu arrived in the U.S. was in 1976, in Fort Dix New Jersey. illustration/MIRANDA HARMON

8

September 25, 2009

The Lion’s Tale

Opinion

“The only way to get rid of a temptation is to yield to it.”

Oscar Wilde

OUR WORD

LION’S TALE

Five minutes, too short of time for students

Oviedo High School 601 King Street, Oviedo FL 32765 • Phone: 407-3204199 • Fax: 407-320-4213

W

ithin the confines of iron gates and concrete walls, students race the clock.

The seven period day ushered in a new bell schedule and a shorter travel time between classes. Weeks of scurrying to class have caused all students to take notice.

The physical layout of the school makes it difficult if not impossible to make it across campus in five minutes.

Editor Miranda Ghali timed herself between classes. When she stopped at her locker or took a bathroom break she was close to being 48 seconds late.

We on The Lion’s Tale Newspaper staff feel that administration has failed to take a key student issue into account.

Students must lug around all the books and assignments they need. Aside from lunch, they have no time to stop off at lockers.

Classrooms loom in the distance and walkways remain swamped with students. Don’t even ask how long it takes to get down the stairs. The amount of students turns every stairwell into a human traffic stop.

Waiting a few seconds after class to talk to a teacher is out of the question and bathroom breaks put a stop to any chance of reaching class on time.

Even if administration wishes to remain blind to the students’ plight, teachers recognize the problem.

Teachers wait an extra two minutes

for students to get to class and at the same time are reluctant to punish late students. Teachers recognize how hard it is to sprint down the sidewalk and hurdle through pedestrians just to make it to class on time.

The school looks beautiful now, no doubt about it, and students have more class options than ever before. However, the shorter time between classes makes the school day feel like a race

and creates a stressful atmosphere for education.

We propose adding an extra minute between classes and adding those extra six minutes to the end of the school day.

Through this change, less time will be lost during the day, and students will be able to get to class and start their education on time.

The Lion’s Tale belongs to CSPA, NSPA, and FSPA. We reserve the right to refuse ads. The views of the staff do not necessarily represent the views of the administration, staff, or faculty of Oviedo High School. Advertising and editorial policies are on file in the newspaper room. (05-020) Editors-in-Chief: Carson Bailey, Miranda Ghali News Editor: Victoria Persampiere Features Editor: Tiffany Ray Diversions Editors: Carly Brower, Emily Cottrell Sports Editor: Connor Bailey Opinion Editors: Jordan Hugh Sam, Julia Thorncroft Photographers: John Campbell, Julia Thorncroft, Kevin Veloso, Abby Wakas Staff Artists: Miranda Harmon, Wesley Wynne Advertising Editor: John Campbell Faculty Advisor: Deborah Jepson Administrative Advisor: Anna McCarthy Principal: Robert W. Lundquist Staff Reporters: Miranda Betterley, Jordan Branch, Caitlyn Braswell, Angiee Carey, Nirvani Khan, Lindsay Knox, Hallie Lavery, Kaitlyn Loughlin, Curtis O’Brien, Stephanie O’Sullivan, Kimberly Segrest, Abby Wakas, Jennifer Wakas Lion’s Tale is accessible through the OHS web page.

The Lion’s Tale provides an open forum for students, teachers, and the members of this community. Letters to the editor and guest columns are welcome and may be written and submitted to Deborah Jepson’s room 05-020. Anonymous columns or letters will not be printed, though names may be withheld upon request.

Happiness found with ‘real’ father

the day I was born. But, only Keith stuck around to be my dad, and to marry my mother.

To be frank, I’ve never questioned who my “real” father is. Among my first words was “daddy.” I looked up at the man whose last name I bear. “Daddy” meant the man who rocked me to sleep, not a figure in a photograph I wouldn’t Tiffany Ray features editor recognize. But through my school years see the world through my father’s peers have argued against this claim, as if golden brown eyes. I smile his same a sperm donation meant more than years deep smile, and grow my blonde hair of rearing. long like he did back in the 80’s when I have heard that “blood is thicker than he listened to Def Leppard and sported water.” According to goenglish.com, a a surfer look. My resemblance to him is website devoted to teaching the meaning uncanny. of English idioms and phrases, the saying But I only see his face in my reflection means that the bonds of a bloodline are or an old photograph taken 17 years ago. stronger than those of the genetically The man who’s raised me from infanthood unrelated. Loosely stated, it is meant to until now looks nothing like me. He has distinguish the lesser bonds of friendship a schoolboy grin, reddish brown hair, and from that of family. chocolate colored eyes. The eyes he gave But sharing blood with another human to my younger sister don’t match mine. being is not the only way to develop Wayne Tourville and my mother were the intense family bond mentioned the epitome of high school sweethearts, in the statement. In fact, the bond graduating in the spring of 1989 together. created between my dad and me greatly I’ve seen the senior prom picture, taken overshadows the one I share with even only a few years before my mother wound my blood mother. My dad bandaged the up pregnant with me. Their relationship first scar I received from falling off my disintegrated soon after. “big girl” bike, was the first to finally I was growing in my mom’s belly when acknowledge me as a vegetarian (kind Keith Ray came along, and wanted me as of a taboo in our family), and held me as his very own baby girl. Both biological I choked back sobs the first time a boy father and adoptive father held me on broke my heart.

The

pursuit

of happiness

I

To be honest, I wonder if Wayne would even know me if we met by chance, even though his features are all over my face. In the words of Kellie Pickler, “Would you even recognize the woman that your little girl has grown up to be?”

I don’t know where Wayne is today, probably at home somewhere up North or out West with his new kid, my half brother that I will never meet. Wayne’s mother, my biological grandmother, sends me a birthday card every year in July, yet I don’t even know what part of the country my biological father lives.

But I do know where my dad is. He’s at home five minutes away from OHS’s campus, or at work where I can call him any time of the day, for any reason. When I go home from school today, tomorrow, and the next day, Keith Ray will hear my stories from my day at school, and he will read this column when his very own copy of The Lion’s Tale comes in the mail.

We usually never talk about my biological father. But once I did hear my dad confront someone about the subject.

They argued that my shared genetics with Wayne make him my “real” father. In a cool tone my dad replied, “Tiffany is my daughter.” I couldn’t agree more.

illustration/MIRANDA HARMON

The Lion’s Tale

September 25, 2009 Opinion 9

Twitter part of grand plan to revise histor y Miranda Writes

T

Miranda Harmon

staff artist

witter is ridiculous.

No, no, don’t argue. Don’t tell me to accept this fad as a new wave of technology. I listen to an iPod, text on a cell phone from time to time, and naively and embarrassedly trust Wikipedia. Don’t tell me that I don’t embrace technology.

Don’t get me wrong. iPods, cell phones, and Wikipedia are great and all, but Twitter? I draw the line at Twitter. In fact, I draw the line at Facebook, but I cross that one all the time.

For those of you living under a rock, Twitter is the ultimate social networking site for those with short attention spans.

Users write 140-charcters-or-less blurbs about what they’re doing at any given moment.

After my extensive field research in the realms of Twitter, one question lingers: Why? Why do we care? Why do we find the need to tell the world these things?

This reduces our lives to small bites of

information, truly a technological miracle!

Like a comedian reduces a tragic story to a punch line, we have minimized our lives to small sentences, barely enough to fill five-second intervals.

I would say that nobody cares about what you had for breakfast, but sadly that isn’t true. We now live in a society where we place importance on menial facts in order to hide the gravity of the bigger issues in life.

This is probably for the best, anyway, because if we all took a few moments to think about our size in the big scheme of things, we would all run around screaming like preteens at a Jonas Brothers concert.Oops, sorry, what am I doing talking about existentialism in a column about Twitter?

Anyway, I guess 140 characters are enough

to tell a story now. It’s the way of the future.

So what the heck, just for kicks, I’ll sum up great historical events in 140 characters or less.

Let’s start with the Dawn of Civilization, shortly after the Neolithic Revolution:

People used to be apes. Then they weren’t. Somehow they got out of the trees and invented fire and farming and shoes.

There, that wasn’t so bad. You get the point, and now you can call yourself an expert in the field of anthropology. Way to go!

Or how about the Dark Ages?

The world got pretty good. Then Rome fell. Then all of a sudden we forgot everything we knew and most of Europe died from plague.

It most certainly captures the essence of an era.

You all laugh, but these are the textbooks of the future. And what about literature? Surely we cannot spare Shakespeare of this grand reductionist fate!

So let’s begin with Romeo and Juliet, something so generic and overemphasized that all of you have at least heard of it.

Two kids liked each other. Their families didn’t approve. They all ended up dead.

Wow! What a great story, and so compact!

There, I just saved you enough time to go back to your mindless television programs. Have fun suffering the oncoming Digital Dark Ages and resulting collapse of civilization. If you need me, I’ll be reading a book and holding back sardonic laughter.

Education becomes priority for teen

to do her homework because she would get married to a rich man. She said that working hard in school would just be a big waste of time because she would never actually use the things that she learned. After all, she said that her mom didn’t graduate from high school and she was able to get a job at Target. She said that her mom managed just fine financially, she didn’t need anything Nirvani Khan staff reporter more, she claimed. t’s 5:45 a.m. I lethargically wake up That is, until her single mother was to get ready to start my school day. As unable to pay the bills.

I stumble my way to the bathroom, I That is, until Elizabeth’s home was think to myself “I wish I didn’t have to go to foreclosed and they had to move in with school today.” relatives.

Although I loathe the idea of waking That is, until Elizabeth’s mother found it up at the crack of dawn to go to school impossible to find another job because not for seven hours, five days each week, I too many employers looked for someone genuinely believe that school is important without a high school diploma. and receiving a good education is not only And so, during Elizabeth’s fourth grade beneficial, but it’s absolutely imperative. year, she worked harder and her grades Realistically, how far could we go in life improved tremendously. without a high school education? Not far I’ll always remember when she told at all. In fact, the average salary of a high me that her dream was to go to college to school drop out is about $21,000, which become a teacher. She said that she loved is about 45% less than the salary of a high her mother, but she wanted a better life than school graduate. the one she was living.

Without education, we can’t achieve That’s how Elizabeth Collins went from our most earnest dreams, for the career being one of the weakest students, to one of paths available to us would be extremely the best. Sure, she wasn’t the smartest one constrained and the few options that are in class. But she was willing to try hard and available to us would lead to places less to take on more responsibility, and, at the than desirable. end of the day, that’s really what matters Intelligent, educated people in our most. society led the United States to where it is today, to its strong political, cultural, scientific, and technological endeavors. It didn’t just happen miraculously.

We, students, cannot hope to improve ourselves and our country without acquiring a proper education because without education, we cannot contribute knowledge to the others around us to help our society grow socially and academically.

It irks and astonishes me to see students not putting forth any degree of effort when it’s clearly evident that they have the capability and intelligence to do wonders.

For example, when I was in the third grade, one of my close friends named Elizabeth Collins* said that she didn’t need

NIRVANI’S NOTIONs

I

And that’s totally fine, because receiving a good education doesn’t mean that one must be the smartest in the class or knows the answer to any given question, it means that he/she uses the available resources efficiently to gain knowledge that will prove to be helpful in successive years of schooling, or simply, in life in general.

While in high school, our main priority should indisputably be our education. Of course, friends, extracurricular activities, sports, and our jobs are all very important, too. But for now, most of our energy should be on trying our best to receive the best grades so that our true knowledge can be reflected.

I am fully aware that school work isn’t the most fun thing in the world, and sometimes, it’s incredibly difficult. But when hard work comes along, we must not give up, no matter how long it takes, no matter how frustrated we may be. We must fight and work hard to achieve the ultimate goal: a good education and decent grades. School may seem dull now, but will prove to be beneficial when we’ve gained the basic skills to succeed in college and also, after we receive a decent salary to be able to financially and emotionally support ourselves later on in life.

However, we shouldn’t depend solely on the lectures from our teachers to form the

basis of our education. We must also try to be our own teachers. Strive to learn and take the initiative to learn more. Do not settle for the basic requirements needed to pass a class, go above and beyond that. After all, it isn’t simply about “passing.” It’s about preparing yourself for the future and it’s about rising above the great ignorance of today’s time and society.

So, pay attention in class, do your homework, ask questions, and study.

Realize that every student makes mistakes, even the brightest of them, but also realize that the most dedicated and achieving students are the ones who make mistakes and learn from them.

Everyone is fully capable of succeeding in school. Remember, what sets a good student apart from a mediocre one is effort.

So try your best in all you do, and don’t hold back. After all, you don’t want to have any regrets ten years down the road. These four years matter most, so make each one of them count.

Education’s a gift, but it’s a gift that isn’t just handed on a silver platter. It’s a gift you have to work for, but after you’ve worked for it and acquired it, it’s the best gift you can ever receive and it’s the only gift that will stay with you for the rest of your life.

* name withheld

illustrations/MIRANDA HARMON

10

Opinion

September 25, 2009

The Lion’s Tale

Political debates:

To care or not to care, it’s a question of health

fundamental problem is the lack of a public option that guarantees health care to all citizens.

Insurance companies’ primary goal is not to provide the highest level of health care to all its customers. It’s to churn out a profit. This inevitably leads to a conflict of interests. How much can the insurance company spend on you? How can they cut costs? By denying you coverage for pre-existing conditions and by allocating certain amounts for treatments! This Jordan Hugh Sam co-opinion editor is excellent for them and unfortunately not so joyous for the rest of us. Medical debt remains ur current health care system works the leading cause of personal bankruptcy, great… aside from the fact that a trend absent from most of the rest of the it leaves 49 million Americans world. uninsured, has a higher cost per person than A publicly financed single payer any other country, and fails to provide all system would save $286 billion a year in Americans with a fundamental human right. administrative costs. Taxes would replace Yes, I would be a Universal Health Care what employees and individuals spend for Advocate. But don’t shut your ears so soon.

I’m not asking you to give up your right, your insurance. Would you and I end up paying more? No doubt, having health care universal liberties, or your strong love of capitalism. I is going to mean higher taxes for everyone. ask only that you look around the world and It certainly would offer Americans some think about what is happening. freedom from fears.

The United States spends a higher Routine checkups would no longer dent percentage of GDP on health care than any the bank and losing a job would not mean other country. We pay twice as much per person for health care than the U.K., Canada, the end to all medical coverage. Perhaps Australia, Japan, France, and actually all other most important, being or having a loved one diagnosed with cancer or some other disease countries in the world. Surely we expect a superior level of medical care that far exceeds will not lead to overwhelming debt and a lost home. the other nations.

At heart, the whole universal health care Yet studies show that the United States is debate remains a humanitarian issue. Should ranked 38th in the world for life expectancy. we have to pay to keep others healthy? Look We also have the highest rate of infant around you. The students, the teachers, the mortality in the top five economically productive nations. Basically the question I’m workers, the parents, the neighbors, and the friends you see, these are the people you asking is this, “Are we really operating our will pay for. These are the people you will health care in a proper manner?” support when someone needs a checkup, gets Certainly not. America remains the only diagnosed with a terrible illness, or has a bad industrial nation not to guarantee medical accident. Universal health care gives these treatment and health care to ever citizen and people the best shot they can at life, and with at the same time we find ourselves spending life so short and so many things to do, we more per person than any other nation. The need every shot we’ve got.

FROM THE LEFT

O

in our plan requires you to change what you have,” but why do I get the feeling that that isn’t true? Didn’t he also say that he wants to make insurance companies more competitive? Well, if there are more options for public health care, more businesses will probably switch to provide employees with the cheaper health care.

Because less people will have private insurance, the prices of the private care will have to go up, causing more people Miranda Ghali co-editor-in-chief to switch to public care, causing private n a perfect world, no one would ever insurance to go up even more in a never have to worry about anything. People ending cycle. could just go to a store and pick items There’s another problem with Obama’s off the shelf without payment. People plan for health care reform: he keeps wouldn’t have to work and they could have changing his mind. And, even though fun all day long. People would never get citizens are able to access his plan online, hurt and would never have to worry about no one can understand it. health insurance.

Another reason America should not Unfortunately, we don’t actually live switch over to universal health care is in a Utopian society. America isn’t even one that everyone has heard before. The a Socialist society. That means everyone examples of Canadians and Europeans that works hard for what they get and deserve don’t like their health care are true. While what they work for. not all Canadians and Europeans have So then why, if I have to work to get problems with their universal system, the my health care, should someone else get ones that do have problems, are the ones theirs for free? Why should I have to pay that need health care the most. Wealthy more of my hard earned money in taxes to enough Canadians and Europeans really help pay for someone else’s health care? do come to America to get themselves It’s not my fault they didn’t work hard helped, because our system now is timely enough to get a good job. enough to actually help them compared I understand that there are other to the universal systems. Even Canadian circumstances where good, hard-working and European doctors move to America people just can’t get a break. And, I because they think that our system is better. understand that they have families to Now, after all of that being said, I do support and need assistance in paying for realize that America does need some type insurance. In such cases, the government of reform. I understand that the current should step in to help them, I have no system has its flaws. I don’t think anyone problems with that. Actually, they already can doubt that. I just think that Obama help such people by allowing them health needs to listen to some other plans. There care through Medicaid and Medicare. are lots of other good ideas floating around, So, why is it necessary for the but Obama is so stuck in his ways that he government to step in and ruin my form refuses to look at any other plans seriously. of health care? I already get great health care through my parents’ work, so why can’t I keep it the way it is now? Why does President Barack Obama feel that he needs to fix the parts that aren’t even broken?

Yeah, he says, “Nothing

FROM THE RIGHT

I

What’s your opinion? Speak up!

Send letters to the editor in room 5-020 or email it to editors@thelionstale.com and your voice might be heard!

illustration/WESLEY WYNNE

“Yes, the seven period day gives me the opportunity to take electives and graduate with extra credits.”

Mallory Johnson ‘10 Poll out of 100 students taken 9/23.

“No, because we have more homework. The reason why we have the seven period day is because students want to take electives when they have remedial classes.”

Zachary O’Hanlon ‘12

Features

The Lion’s Tale

September 25, 2009

11

Students stage Civil War

Family tradition carries out on battlefield Emily Cottrell co-diversions editor privates,” said Moons.

J

unior Desiree Crowthers stood atop a hill in the downpour in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, her plaid hoop skirt completely soaked through.

“About a year and half ago, my cousin and uncle were going to Gettysburg for a Civil War reenactment, and they invited me to join. It was not what I had expected, because I didn’t think it was going to be as fun as it was. It was extremely hot and my skirt was heavy from the rain, but the experience was amazing. The food was great at camp and the people I met were awesome,” said Crowthers.

Her cousin, senior Forrest Moons, got involved earlier this year, and has settled into the family tradition of sorts.

“My younger brother is really interested in the Civil War, and he and my dad started reenacting under the Seventh Florida Company B regiment about two years ago.

They wanted me to come, so I gave it a try,” said Moons.

Moons has participated in four reenactments since he began, and fights for the Confederacy, as does the rest of his family.

“The reenactments last three days. On the first day, all the reenactors set up camp and get prepared for the following days’ events. Visitors start pouring in on Saturday, the first day they can view a battle. Usually the Union wins a battle on Saturday, and the Confederacy wins a battle on Sunday,” said Moons.

As the Confederates march toward the battlefield, Moons prepares himself for the role ahead.

“Different reenactors portray different ranks, but they don’t act as particular historical figures from the time. My brother, my dad, and I all represent Confederate

Crowthers did not simply follow in her family’s footsteps. She joins the Confederate cause on these weekend retreats for her own reasons.

“Back then, the tariffs that the government placed on the country had no interest in the Southern economy. I would have chosen to defend Confederate rights,” said Crowthers.

American History and Civil War teacher Mary Woods began reenacting when a student told her class that he was involved in this unique activity.

“The student invited the class to a reenactment, so I went to see what it was like. I just thought, ‘This is so cool! I have to be a part of it,’ and I’ve been involved ever since,” said Woods.

While the men wage war on the battlefield, the women stand by on the sidelines, but are still an integral part of the reenactments.

“I portray a Southern lady. Because the civilian women weren’t at the battles, I sit in the crowd and look on with the visitors.

When they notice my outfit, they will usually ask questions and I will educate them about the Civil War, just like I do here at school,” said Woods.

In the midst of all of the fighting, the reenactors unwind with a ball, complete with period music and Civil War era dancing.

“At the balls, the women wear evening gowns and some of the men wear a more formal uniform. The period dancing is kind of like square dancing,” said Woods.

The campsites, alive with festivities, include period photography and food.

Sutlers set up booths throughout the camp, selling authentic clothes and souvenirs for spectators.

“The atmosphere is just really fun, and it’s definitely an unusual experience. You can just relax and enjoy this completely different world,” said Moons.

Moons and Crowthers agree that venturing into the 1860s can be a great way to unwind on the weekends.

Crowthers said, “In reenacting, you can go back in time. I like the atmosphere, the way they dress. The guys were gentlemen and treated ladies with a kind of respect not even expected of them these days. I wish society was still like that today.”

photo/COURTESY OF DESIREE CROWTHERS

OLD FASHIONED PHOTO. Above:

Soldiers march forth bearing the confederate flag. Left: American History and Civil War teacher Mary Woods has her picture taken in Civil War era fashion.

DS photo/COURTESY OF MARY WOO

CONFEDERATE COUSINS. Senior Forrest

Moons and junior Desiree Crowthers, cousins, participate in Civil War reenactments on the confederate side. pho U CO

to/ REE

ESI

FD

O SY RTE RS

THE OW CR

photo/COURTESY OF DESIREE CROWTHERS

LINING ‘EM UP. Reenactors take their places on the battlefield, readying themselves for the upcoming fight.

12

Features

September 25, 2009

The Lion’s Tale

‘Dance, dance revolution’

New director brings choreography skills to team

Stephanie O’Sullivan no longer has to pay choreographers to come pre-game. staff reporter in and teach them routines. Arroyo started “There’s advantages and disadvantages

T

wenty-three girls. One new dance director. One junior varsity coach. The Mane Attraction dance team prepares for a change this year with the addition of the new director Shanel Arroyo.

“I had no problems with Mrs. Hollander, I miss her, but it’s a lot of fun with Arroyo,” said sophomore Stephanie Kirk.

After 18 years, the team faces new leadership. Last year, Carol Hollander announced that she would not be returning for a 19th year, and after many interviews with Principal Robert Lundquist and Assistant Principle Leon Merck, the dance team welcomed Arroyo as the new director.

“I like her. She’s pretty laid back,” said co-captain Amanda Lopez. “She tells us she’s going to get more disciplined. She’s cool and her ideas are new.”

Arroyo herself does not think that there have been any drastic changes since she became the new director.

“My goal is to keep things that work, and change things that don’t. There haven’t been any real changes,” said Arroyo.

One shift from previous years is that Arroyo does most of the varsity team and pre-game choreography herself.

“I choreograph because I love to choreograph. I’m a perfectionist,” said Arroyo. “A painter paints, a sculptor sculpts, a dancer choreographs. Its like moving art.”

Having a built-in choreographer lowers the cost of being on the team, as the team

dancing when she was living in Key West at the age of two, at a studio called The Ballet School, under the direction of Denise Plouffe. When Arroyo was 23, she coached the Key West Stars, a middle and high school cheerleading team, and was on the UCF Starlet Knights Dance team.

“It definitely cuts the price down but it’s still sort of hard. Everything has its ups and downs though,” said Laquinta Alexander.

Sophomore Annie Futato said that the board has tried hard this year to reduce the costs for the dancers, and one way to keep the extra costs down is to participate in fund-raisers throughout the year.

Even with the aid of these fund-raisers and the reduction in LaQuinta cost needed for choreography, Alexander the total cost of being a firstyear member on the team is $1,626. After being on the team for a year, the cost goes down to $1,431 a year, because first-year members have to buy all of the team necessities, such as the baseball jersey, warm up outfits, performance makeup, etc.

“During the summer, we do car washes.

Right now, we’re selling Vera Bradley necklaces. We also sell stuffed lions, do Publix donations, and in the winter we sell poinsettias,” said Lopez.

Although this change wasn’t brought on with the addition of Arroyo, the dance team no longer performs at half-time at football games with the band, and instead performs

to both situations,” said Alexander. “We do our style of dancing at pre-game.”

The team performs Arroyo’s choreography game nights around 7:15 p.m., after huddling up in a circle and chanting, “M-A, M-A, M-A,- you know!”

Terri Darrenkamp, the parent of a dancer and the president of the Mane Attraction Booster Club (MABC) said that she really misses Hollander, but also thinks that Lundquist made a wonderful choice in choosing Arroyo to take up Hollanders job.

“I like performing. That’s my favorite part of being on the team,” said Junior Christina MacAuley.

The team also performs at pep rallies, and so far the choreography isn’t Arroyo’s. It is the choreography of the junior varsity coach, Amanda ‘10 Persampiere. The girls on the team still have to try-out to perform at pep rallies, which is something that hasn’t changed with the addition of Arroyo.

“We do it because we want to make sure we look really good in front of our peers.

It’s our chance to perform for them. It’s a privilege,” said Futato.

The goal of many members on the team is to make it all the way to finals at Nationals in Feb. at the Walt Disney World Resort, which is something that hasn’t happened in the past two years.

“I would just really love to see the program grow this year, and for the girls to exceed,” said Arroyo.

in writing for quite some time.

“I have several students who have been ll through out her high school life, writing creatively since they were little. I senior Amanda Juliano waited for hope my job is to inspire them to go on and just the right class to come around. study creative writing at the college level,” She waited for a class that would accomplish said Gibbs.

According to Gibbs, this year she will be her dream of becoming a novelist. She waited teaching her students in a workshop format. for creative writing.

“We will be writing examples of poetry, “I have been interested in writing forever,” said senior Amanda Juliano. “I plan to be a memoir and fiction. Each student will gather novelist or an English teacher, so this class their work into a small chapter book at the would really help me since there aren’t too end of the year,” said Gibbs.

Although this class is a yearlong course, many writing critiquing places in OHS.” one semester is According to Didi during period 7 Gibbs, the creative and the second writing teacher for “I hope my job is to inspire them to go on semester is period the first semester, and study creative writing at the college 1 with English the class focuses on level.” teacher Tom autobiographical Jesse. writing including Didi Gibbs Many students memoirs and short Creative Writing Teacher like Juliano stories, essays, and senior Dan poems, plays and Walters don’t other nonfiction.

“It is my first time teaching this class at mind the dramatic schedule change.

“I think that it would be a new dynamic Oviedo, but I have taught at SCC. I have to remember that I’m not teaching adults here and interesting because of the new teacher. on this campus and be careful with what kind I will definitely miss Gibbs’ class,” said of assignments I give, because at SCC I can Juliano.

Even though for some students the have my students write on more open and schedule change works out, others can’t take mature topics,” said Gibbs.

Gibbs explains how students share their creative writing the second semester.

“I love writing, like poetry in the artistic work in many different ways.

“My students post their writings on a style. But sadly I won’t be able to take the discussion on Blackboard. Then they have to class next semester because I have math respond to two other students on Blackboard. period one. But I would love to take it all After that I usually pick five random students year if I could,” said junior Carlos Perez.

Walters and sophomore Melissa Guarino, and we discuss the workshop rules and have advice and information for other critique their pieces,” said Gibbs.

Most of the students have been interested students who may want to take this course.

“If you are going to take creative writing,

you would definitely need to pay attention and do the assignments. Because how are you going to get by on a period of writing if you don’t write?” said Guarino.

Walters recommends creative writing for those who are considering it.

“I would say that if you are interested or want to pursue a career in writing, you should take it if you feel like it. You also need to be dedicated, because if you aren’t, then you won’t know what’s going on. But it’s all worth it in the end,” said Walters.

photo/MIRANDA GHALI

SO YOU THINK YOU CAN DANCE?

New dance director Shanel Arroyo displays a dancing pose she uses in developing her own routines.

Gibbs teaches workshop method to writing class Angiee Carey

A

staff reporter

Creative Writing 101: What to Write If you don’t know what to write, there are creative prompts on lin e to give you a guidline and help yo u al on g. Check out creativewritingprom pt s.c om and creativewritingsolutions .com Poetry comes in all shap Try your hand at differe es and sizes. as haiku or free verse. nt syles, such eck out www. poetry.com to researchCh po etry and to publish your poems.

Try ‘stream of consciou sness writing.’

It’s a more whimsical for in a diary - so just write m of writing at you’re thinking. Don’t censor yowh ur self. Just write down what comes in to your head in that momen Wha t you come up with can inspirt. e you.

The Lion’s Tale

September 25, 2009

Features

13

Host family welcomes new arrival

Girls brave foreign soil, break language barriers Tiffany Ray

J

Metallica. The director sent us Mari’s profile daughter; their sister. They promised to see

features editor because her profile mentioned she was in a me again, and I honestly love them,” said

unior Mari Shalvashvili steps out of the band in Georgia and that her favorite band terminal at the Orlando International was Metallica,” said Gruse.

Not only does Shalvashvili appear to Airport, where hurrying travelers rush to their gates toting luggage, adding to the fit in with her host family, but within her cacophony of clicking heels and foreign schooling as well.

“Someone who just came and looked at accents.

Shalavashvili scans the crowd of milling our choir would not be able to tell that she’s people, searching for the strangers she will from a different country,” said choir director live with for the next year, who signed up Bill Schult.

Senior Cynthia Harburn knows what to be a host family to an exchange student being a student from a foreign country is like. from the Republic of Georgia.

“I’m here at OHS as part of the Georgia Last year she became an exchange student High School exchange student program. with Rotary, an organization dedicated to I came here a month ago and I will stay helping people around the globe, and spent this school year, and then go back to my her junior year in Lahti, Finland.

“I wasn’t country,” said allowed to choose Shalvashvili. “The what country I “I was really a part of the family with the exchange program exchanged to, but I started out as a sort second family I stayed with. I was their did have a top five of competition. daughter; their sister. They promised to see list, which included There were exams me again, and I honestly love them.

Finland. I wanted you had to pass. to experience a One hundred Cynthia Harburn, ‘10 real winter and students came here my heritage,” said for the program out Harburn. of four thousand Rotary’s youth exchange process who tried the competition.”

Rebecca Gruse, Shalvashvili‘s host draws parallels to the process Gruse and mother, couldn’t be happier about the Shalvashvili went through.

“You have to be between the ages of 15 arrangement.

“The director for Academic Year in the and 18, and have to fill out a form. Most USA put an announcement in our church’s places have rigorous interviews to see if bulletin that she was looking for a host you’re ready to be on your own. If you pass family. We had to go through an interview the interviews they give you a physical form, and profiling. I thought it would be a great an insurance form, etc. They also have two experience for my four sons to have a camps to prep you for leaving everything you are used to behind,” said Harburn. sister,” said Gruse.

Harburn lived with three different host Shalvashvili ‘s profile depicted her as families in Finland, and she will never forget a perfect fit.

“When the coordinator came to the family bonds she made there.

“I was really a part of the family with interview us the boys were being loud, playing guitar on Rock Band and singing the second family I stayed with. I was their

Harburn.

Gruse feels that Mari is part of the family.

“I only have sons, and my husband always said I’d get a daughter no matter what. He was right,” said Gruse.

Gruse recalls her sons’ first encounters with Shalvashvili.

“Mari and the boys were in the pool, and my six year old says, ’This is your first time in a pool, huh?’ Of course Mari said no!” said Gruse, laughing. “It was really hard for him to imagine someone from so far away.

I really think he thought there would be nothing the same, as if there weren’t pools where she was from.”

The difference in schooling as well as at home become apparent quickly.

“At my school in Georgia we don’t have so many buildings; just one big building. Two thousand people study, half in the morning, and half in the afternoon. Elementary, secondary, and high school are together. It’s so big and different here,” said Shalvashvili.

The language barrier can be daunting, but it did not greatly interfere with Harburn’s studies.

“I had an American textbook for biology, and my art teacher used pictures to help me understand. In addition, I took a lot of English classes so that I could help them to hear what a real American sounds like,” said Harburn.

Shalvashvili fluently speaks English.

“In my country we speak Georgian, our native language, but everyone speaks two or three languages because half of our people are from other countries,” said Shalvashvili.

Gruse hopes her sons’ involvement with Shalvashvili will leave an impact.

“I think what they’re taking away from this is that people are people, even 12 hours

Cynthia Harburn, ‘10 away by plane,” said Gruse.

Gruse remains proud of Shalvashvili.

“It takes a special person to completely leave everything behind and go experience something new,” said Gruse.

For Harburn and Shalvashvili, the point of taking part in an exchange program was to strengthen independence and global awareness.

“I wanted to be able to live on my own and prove that I was mature. I really wanted to experience a different culture than I’d been used to for 15 years. I wanted a change,” said Harburn.

Staying a year in Finland became much more than a change of scenery.

Said Harburn, “It’s the best and hardest thing I’ve ever done. It helped me live on my own. If I hadn’t have gone I’d be a completely different person.”

photo/COURTESY OF CYNTHIA HARBUR

PIZAZZY BANGER Picture description here. Include names, event, etc. Keep photo/COURTESY OF MARIgoes SHALVASHVILI stroke around picture, please!

HARBURN photo/COURTESY OF CYNTHIA

Cynthia r stay in Finland, Senior SKI SLOPE. During he s. on these massive ski slope Harburn enjoyed skiing

Junior Mari Shalvashvili and friends pose for a picture back home in the Republic of Georgia.

SNAP SHOTS.

photo/COURTES Y OF MARI SHAL VASHVILI

CRAZY FACES. Mari Shalvashvili m isses the friends she left behin d in her home countr y, but said that she “loves it here!” at OHS.

photo/COURTESY OF CYNTHIA HARBURN

LAHTI, FINLAND. Senior Cynthia Harburn enjoyed the beautiful scenery of Finland during the year she spent there as an exchange student.

14

Sports

September 25, 2009

Game time:

Everyone knows about the football team and the cheerleaders, but what about the other contributors to every football game? When you combine the hours of practice and hours of game time, it adds up to a lot of work. The Lion’s Tale found out just how much time is devoted to making each game a lasting memory in students’ minds.

+ Football: 28 Hours

The Lion’s Tale

Marching Band: 14 Hours

NJROTC: 11 Hours

+ + +

Pride Ride: 3 Hours

photo/ABBY WAKAS

Gate Keepers: 9 Hours

photo/KEVIN VELOSO

Game on:

+

+ photo/JOHN CAMPBELL

Mane Attraction Dance: 15 Hours

Lions of all kinds p make ‘Friday Nigh

On top of practice, the players must maintain a GPA of at least 2.0.

“Sometimes when players have a low GPA the sport makes them strive for the staff reporter 2.0 to play the game,” said Lougee.

The Touchdown Club keeps their players healthy and well nourished. t’s a mindblower. Hundreds of people show up to turn on the Friday Night Dedicated parents of past and present players come together to prepare team Lights. meals.

Students, faculty, and parents come together as part of a giant collage “We’ve just always helped since our kids were on the team, and we continued contributing hours of blood, sweat, and tears to make the football game possible. to help with past and present team parents,” said Lougee.

THE PREPARATION Six parents spend at least five hours on preparations for Thursday team meals.

It takes hours of preparation of the field and faculty to sculpt the game.

“It bonds the team and brings them together. They all eat the meal together.

Nine faculty members first must act as gatekeepers to monitor the movement It’s just the coaches and the boys, “ said Lougee. of people throughout the night.

The night before kick off parents join forces to stripe the field, retouching its THE BAND The award-winning band contributes a six hour week. And to boot, over the yard lines. Striping the field usually takes about three hours. summer band practiced for two weeks during annual band camp under the hot rays The football team sets up the field during sixth and seventh period prior to the game on game days. Setting up the tunnel takes an hour, but those involved find of the summer sun.

They march with their instruments of all shapes and sizes from the flute to the it worth the work.

“I love that tunnel. We’ve had it forever. Nobody has a tunnel like ours; it’s tuba, under the direction of Dennis Line.

“I play the baritone and I’ve been playing it since the beginning of this year. I very unique. Our parents made it for us years ago out of sandbags, net, and piping,” enjoy it. I like playing during the games. It feels like all of my hard work has paid said athletic secretary, Linda Lougee.

Lougee organizes the creation of the game, including ticket sales. She makes off,” said sophomore Austin Raphermith.

A supportive group of parents, belonging to the OHS Band Boosters Association sure all of the ticket sellers are ready to go for the big game. cheer the band on and man the concession stands at the games. They spend their THE TEAM The football team alone tackles a minimum of a 28-hour week during the Friday afternoons making cotton candy to sell at the games.

“We usually make a hundred bags of cotton candy and sell them all,” said band season. The 55 players spend four hours each school day on the field, watching clips of games, or lifting weights in seventh period and after school. They also parent, Debra Hugh Sam. THE DANCE TEAM work on Fridays in school to help prepare the field for the game.

All of the dance team girls have a passion that moves them through a 15-hour “It gives you less time to do stuff like homework, sleep, and watch TV, but it’s definitely worth it because its something I enjoy doing. Playing on Fridays makes week of workouts and practices.

“I absolutely love to dance. I would dance 24/7 if I could. I especially love me feel good, successful, and invested. I’m always excited to go out there and give dancing at pep rallies, because I get to dance in front of my peers,” said sophomore it my all,” said sophomore Dayo Adisa.

Annie Futato.

For some players it’s a passion.

The 23-member dance team takes the stands with the band during the football “I’ve played football my whole life, practice makes perfect put in the work and games and put on a pre-game performance, but their real time to shine takes place you get something good out of it,” said senior Tyrone Standiffer.

Jordan Branch

I

at spirited pep ral Shantel Arroy choreography tha

THE COLOR GU

Color guard b The coaches, techniques using The 14-memb during the summe “After all the l we are able to ent time,” said junior

THE CHEERLEA

The cheerlead Coach Lauren team.

“Our team is Sometimes they t our skills,” said so Seventeen girl and help the team They keep the

AFTER THE GA

Following ga Friday Night Ligh many volunteers Saturday play Coaches playb lift weights for an Lougee and ot and bring them ho Everyone fina week.

The Lion’s Tale

September 25, 2009

Sports

15

Cheerleading: 15 Hours

+ + +

Tunnel construction: 1 Hour

Color Guard: 6 Hours

+

+

Washing uniforms: 4 Hours Announcer: 3 Hours

photo/KEVIN VELOSO

+

+

Striping the field: 3 Hours

=118 Hours

photo/ROB LAWARRE

Concessions: 6 Hours

photo/ROB LAWARRE

pull together to ht Lights’ shine

llies. yo, the new dance director, puts together a performance with at highlights their skill.

UARD

brings the band’s field technical abilities to life.

Stacey Johnson and Sharon Stump, combine choreography with equipment, such as, flags, sabers, and riffles. ber team practices six hours a week and practice with the band er to perfect the groups marching halftime performance. long hours spent working with the band the reward is the fact that tertain the audience but the most important this is to have a good r Nicole de Leon.

ADERS

ders keep the crowd moving with their acrobatics and cheers. n Goodwen works to increase the technique and strength of the

s always looking to improve, so we try more difficult stunts. turn out well and other times they don’t, but in the end it improves sophomore Rachel Brockman. rls do the samba with the dance team to the assistance of the band ms overall confidence and moral. e crowd excited and encourage the talent on the field.

AME

ame night, NJROTC and the athletics department shut off the hts. They team together to clean up the field. Depending on how they gather clean up can take one hour. yers and faculty regroup at school. back and watch videos of the prior nights game, while the players n hour. ther volunteers wash the player’s uniforms for three to four hours ome for repairs. ally retires for the weekend to get ready to do it all again next

photo/JOHN CAMPBELL

THE GAME AWAITS. The players line up before the game begins.

Comedy, cannons, and concessions, oh my!

Funny guy narrates game

S

tand-up actor and comedian, Chris Davis, takes the mike during Friday night home games, bringing football fanatics to their feet.

Davis only announces for the varsity team but he loves his job and wouldn’t mind doing it for JV or freshman teams.

“I love it. I’m a football fan so I really enjoy announcing the games,” said Davis.

He likes to be humorous and photo/ROB LAWARRE he enjoys making comments UP IN THE BOOTH. Announcer Chris Davis tells the crowd about the players making hard the action of the game. hits.

Touchdowns signal cannon fire

“They’re all over the ball carrier like white on rice with a glass of milk with a paper plate in a snowstorm,” said Davis.

He is a comedian at different comedy clubs including Bonkers, Improv, and Funny Bones.

Davis was excited to start announcing for the first time in ’05, when he began with the Pop Warner games.

“I was asked to do announcing of games and I don’t do clean comedy, so it gave me the opportunity to do so,” said Davis.

T

he NJROTC cannon brings the crowd to their feet and ignites a lively cheer. The NJROTC fires the cannon every touchdown.

“We use gunpowder and you need two or more cadets depending on the person who is in charge to supervise the cord that ignites the cannon,” said sophomore Andres Vera.

The NJROTC practices this technique after school until a responsible cadet is prepared to take charge of the post during home games.

“I’m a beginning student and I look forward to having the opportunity to start the cheers of the crowd soon at a home game. To have this responsibility I have to have a little more experience,” said Vera.

The team in charge of the cannon is Saluting Battery.

“I used to be on the team. Now I photo/ROB LAWARRE am shooting. I enjoyed being on the team while I was on it,” said junior READY, AIM, FIRE. NJROTC helps in many aspects of the game including firing the cannon when the team scores and helps clean up after the game ends.

Brandon Bates.

Boosters feed hungry HS Band Boosters Association prepares the

O

food for the game for every home game.

Hamburgers and hot dogs make up the main course of the concession stands at all football games.

Joe Mooney along with other parents grills the burgers for the game. They usually arrive at 4 or 5:30 and stay the whole game, feeding the hungry crowd. Different opponents and crowd expectancy alters the amount of food prepared for games. ”I have a son in band that plays saxophone. I help out, because of him. I think everyone should photo/ROB LAWARRE be involved. It’s a nice and easy way to help out FLIPPIN’ BURGERS. OHSBBA participates in cooking food for concession sales. the school and band,” said Mooney.

They help out usually because they have a child that participates in band.

16

September 25, 2009

Features

The Lion’s Tale

Sexting: crime of passion

Technological fad punishable by law Carson Bailey

Not only may sexting be a faster way to picture of myself. A few hours later he broke that would be bad enough, said junior Ryan

S

co-editor-in-chief sexual pleasure but a way for insecure people up with me because he said he had what he Fuller. “Law enforcement? That is overkill,

enior Jasmine Campbell reaches into her pocket to retrieve her vibrating phone. Slowly opening her phone, she expects to quickly type a message back to a friend. Yet she received the unexpected.

“Normally I only get text messages during school,” said Campbell. “But when I opened my phone it said I had a picture message which was weird.”

Campbell clicked a few buttons and waited intently as the picture slowly loaded.

“The picture finally loaded and I was never so shocked in my life,” said Campbell.

“I was staring at a nude picture of a kid I barely even knew. I felt so grossed out and had no idea what to do.”

While Campbell’s picture message was unintended and unwanted, teens these days are now engaging in this new form of texting – Sexting.

“Sexting for me is like a more convenient version of cybersex,” said senior Carter Pratt*. “It can be fun, but it’s really more of a last resort when the real thing isn’t readily available.”

This transfer of sexually explicit messages or nude images through text has combined the aspects of sexual pleasure and instantaneous communication to create a term known as sexting.

“Phones are so fast now and they bring you directly into connection with the person you are talking to,” said junior Morgan Cassel.

“Technology and sex are two things that teens use/think about most.

Sexting was bound to happen.”

to feel secure in sexual situations. wanted.”

“Some people are too nervous or scared Feldman went on to explain how the to get physical with someone because of their situation still haunts her to this day. body image,” said junior Cassandra Buelich.

“My ex still has that photo of me.

“Sending sexual pictures lets them control Knowing that I feel like I’ve lost my sense of what they want to show or not show.” privacy,” said Feldman. “If I had the chance What many teens may not realize is just to take it back I would in a heartbeat and why sexting can be such a big mistake. would warn anyone that it’s a big mistake to “I hear people in class talk about ‘that sext anyone.” girl with the great body who sent me a nude The experience of sexting mistakes last night’ but I have steered don’t think they Feldman’s views understand in the opposite what they are direction than saying,” said those of Pratt If a person is found Cassel. “That and Buelich. can translate “I am glad creating, distributing or into a big mess sexting for teens has possession of minors with the law.” is illegal and it If a person is should be kept [under the age of 18] nude, found creating, that way,” said they can be imprisoned for distributing or Feldman. “It has life and posted as a sex has possession hurt so many of minors people.” offender under federal law. [under the Up until age of 18] recently sexting nude, they can was only be imprisoned for life and posted as a sex punishable through law enforcement, but offender under federal law. starting this 2009-2010 school year that has “That seems a little too harsh,” said changed.

Buelich. “It doesn’t hurt anyone but the “Last year the school board addressed people who do send the pictures. If they the topic of sexting and it was approved as make to make that choice, let them.” an addition to the Student Code of Conduct Pratt also disapproves of sexting being ,” said High School Executive Director illegal.

Walt Griffin. “We were influenced by the “I don’t think sexting should be numerous news articles and broadcasts. We considered way more punish worthy than decided something should be done to protect normal texting. At least it’s not violent. I’d our students in Seminole County.” say sexting is next to harmless,” said Pratt.

These additions can be found on pages 8 While this new form of texting may be and 34 of the Student Code of Conduct. faster and even help the scared and insecure, School officials now have the right to it has proven to be a big mistake for senior contact law enforcement along with giving Jessica Feldman*. school punishments such as OSS. “My boyfriend at the time had been “Wow, really? Law enforcement? I begging me to ‘sext’ him,” said Feldman. feel like that is a bad thing. It’s just totally “Eventually I gave in and sent him a nude ridiculous. I mean, if someone was caught,

It’s the law

Carson’s sidebar

and a violation of privacy, in my opinion.”

On the other hand some students believe these standards and punishments fit just right.

“Students should be punished if found sending sexual pictures on campus,” said senior Paige Lenssen. “Inappropriate materials is forbidden on campus, and this applies to technological forms of communication as well.”

Sexting is not only an issue for law enforcement and school administration.

As teens get of age, parents must talk about rising issues for them such as drug use, alcohol consumption, and sex. The combination of sex and texting has added another topic for discussion.

“I feel it is important to begin discussing these types of issues with children at the appropriate age. Each child is different; therefore, discussions about sexting must be age appropriate,” said Oviedo High School parent Molly O’Kennedy.

O’Kennedy strongly believes teaching children about sexting is the right parth, since the consequences of a simple act can be disastrous.

“If children are left to learn about this issue on their own they will not only not get all the information they need, they will rely on friends who will give them misinformation,” said O’Kennedy. “All children, at the appropriate age, should be made aware of the legal implications if caught sending/ receiving sext messages.”

With all these consequences in mind, Counselor Keri Nola advises students to think before sexting.

“Think about the consequences of taking, sending, or forwarding a sexual picture of someone under 18 years old, even if it’s you.

You could get kicked off of sports teams, face humiliation, lose educational opportunities, and even get in trouble with the law,” said Nola.

*name withheld

Sexting offenders charged Carson Bailey “You will find me on the registered thought it was just a stupid thing he co-editor-in-chief did, Orlando police saw this as an sex offender list next to people who

E DA AN IR

M

n/ io

at str

illu N

O

RM

HA

ighteen year old Phillip Alpert is a registered sex offender all because of a single multimedia text message.

Alpert’s 16 year old girlfriend of 2 ½ years had recently sent him a naked photo of herself when he decided to send the photo out via text to dozen of her friends and family after the two got into an argument.

According to CNN news Alpert stated he was tired and that it was a mistake to do.

“It was a stupid thing I did because I was upset and tired and it was the middle of the night.

I was an immature kid,” said Alpert.

Although Alpert may have

illegal offense.

He was arrested and charged with child pornography and sentenced to five years probation as well as required to register as a sex offender

by Florida law.

According to a survey by The National Campaign to Prevent Teen & Unplanned Pregnancy surveying around 1,300 teenagers about sex and technology, one in five teenagers say that they have ‘sexted,’ even though it is known that this could be considered a crime.

“Sexting is treated as child pornography,” said Alpert’s attorney Larry Walters.

Alpert was in shock at the consequences he will face for the rest of his life.

have raped children, molested kids, things like that, because I sent child pornography,” said Alpert.

Marissa Miller, now 15 years old, took photos of herself in a training bra at a sleepover when she was twelve years old. Though she “wasn’t trying to be sexual,” charges will be filed if she does not take re-education classes, one of the consequences of ‘sexting.’

‘Sexting’ even lead to the death of Jessica Logan, a teen in Ohio. She hanged herself after a nude picture of her surfaced around several high schools.

“Though teens may think it’s funny and a way to flirt or even seek revenge after a breakup, there can be dangerous consequences,” said George Skumanick Jr., a district attorney.

The Lion’s Tale

September 25, 2009

Features

17

One by One Kimberly Segrest

Moyers sautés, stirs, simmers S enior Christina Moyers smiles relishing the scent of fresh spices as she prepares her favorite dish, Italian Pasta. She first started making this dish her sophomore year in Karen Stapleton’s Nutrition and Wellness Class.

“Christina is a very good student. She’s eager and wants to learn,” said Stapleton.

At first cooking was just “interesting and easy,” said Moyers.

Little did she know that her culinary hobby would soon turn into her dream career.

It wasn’t until later when Moyers’ mom began seeing her step dad, Ted Sherea, a payroll specialist at Simmons, that she discovered her true love of cooking. Sherea cooked them “fancy” meals, sparking her dream of one day becoming a chef.

“His food was so elegant it made me hold my breath and stare at it,” said Moyers, recalling meals prepared for her by her step dad.

“He’s very precise. I was like ‘wow, he knows what he’s doing and I want that,’” said Moyers.

After seeing her step dad’s skill in the kitchen she was inspired to try her best

Tamales: Ingredients: 1 6 oz. pkg. dried corn husks 6 cups masa harina 2 cups oil 2 Tbsp. salt 4-1/2 cups water or more as needed

Jelly

by Miranda Harmon

For the cooking directions, visit: http://recipes.epicurean.com/recipe/16263/ new-mexican-pork-tamales.html

which is farther from home than she wants to be.

“The main factors I considered when deciding which college to attend was size and what the school could offer. Does it have hands on education? Can I cook will learning?” said Moyers.

Those factors in mind, she plans to attend the Orlando Culinary Academy for a 21-month program and then continue her schooling at Johnson and Wales.

Moyers is currently a dividend for Stapleton who says, “She is very responsible.

She plans on being a great chef and going to culinary school.”

However Stapleton also says “I’ve had several [students] go on to major cooking colleges. It’s really expensive. They don’t realize it’s a very hard thing to get through,” said Stapleton, “That’s why you have to be very dedicated.”

Said Moyers, “The hardest thing about being a chef is working with people you don’t like or that boss you around.”

But in spite of controversy in the kitchen, Moyers said, “I hope to be a great chef and own my own restaurant.”

photo/KIMBERLY SEGREST

Christina Moyers, ‘10

Filling: 1-1/2 lbs. pork loin or other tender, lean cut, fat removed 1 med. white onion, chopped 2 cups water 2 Tbsp. canola oil 2 cloves garlic, minced 1 Tbsp. flour 1/2 cup dried ground chile (Chimayo if available) 3/4 tsp. salt 1/4 tsp. cumin 1/8 tsp. oregano

in the next cooking class she took, Food Preparation. Since then, she has taken every cooking class OHS has to offer including both Food Science and Technology and Food Around the World.

When asked about her favorite ethnic food Moyers said, “I’m Mexican and I love Mexican food. My favorite Mexican dish is Tamales with pork.”

Moyer’s grandmother was born in Mexico and cooked Mexican food for her. Thus, moving Moyers to try her hand at making Mexican food too.

“She [Moyers] made Chisos, eggs, and tortillas for the class. It’s a Mexican food,” s+aid Stapleton. “It was wonderful.”

However Moyers has not limited herself to taking only cooking classes that are offered to her by Oviedo High School. She has also attended “culinary boot camps” during the summer, including a three-day “culinary boot camp” at Keiser University, in Orlando, the summer of her sophomore year.

The next summer she attended a weeklong “boot camp” at Johnson and Wales in North Miami.

“It was hardcore,” said Moyers. “You’re up at 6 a.m. and finally done around 8 at night. But you still had the fun times.”

The cooks were split into small groups at the boot camps that worked together to perform a specific task such as chopping vegetables.

“It was interesting. I love being in the kitchen. You felt important even if you only did one small thing because that one small thing wrapped everything together,” said Moyers.

Moyers was recently accepted into the Culinary Institute of America.

Though she will not be attending this school, she if flattered. Moyers wants more experience and the college is in New York,

Tying up giraffes leads to jail time • New York’s Central Park is nearly twice the size of the entire country of Monaco.

• The average life span of a mosquito is two weeks.

• A female mackerel lays 500,000 eggs at a time.

• Surgeons, who listen to music during operations, perform better than those who don’t.

• A dragonfly has a life a span of 24 hours.

• Bananas are actually herbs.

Bananas die after fruiting, like all herbs do.

• 96% of American housholds purchase bananas at least once each month.

• The strongest muscle in the human body is the tongue.

(The heart is not a muscle.)

• In Michigan, it is illegal to kill a dog using a decompression chamber.

• In Britain, failed suicides were hanged in the 19th century.

• 400 quarter-pounder can be made out of one cow.

• Esophobia is the fear of dawn.

• In Atlanta, GA, it is illegal to tie a giraffe to a telephone pole or street lamp.

• The average human body contains enough fat to make seven bars of soap.

• Camels have three eyelids to protect themselves from blowing sand.

• A fully loaded supertanker traveling at normal speed takes at least twenty minutes to stop.

Facts obtained from the Awesome Facts iPhone Application

18

September 25, 2009

The Lion’s Tale

Diversions

e m a F

Find Jelly!

In every edition of this year’s newspaper, a small image of Jelly will be hidden somewhere in the paper. Have fun searching!

Dancing queen joins cast as supporting role in remake

A remake of the 1980s phenomenon, Fame, in theaters Sept. 25, follows students of the New York City High School of Performing Arts as they pursue their talents in music and dance. The Lion’s Tale spoke with cast member Kherington Payne, who rose to fame on FOX’s hit reality show, “So You Think You Can Dance.”

How does the experience of filming Fame compare to your experiences on “So You Think You Can Dance”?

- The Lion’s Tale They were both once in a life time opportunities. On “So You Think You Can Dance,” it was easy because I was being myself and dancing like I’ve always wanted to do. On Fame, it was so different. I had to learn lines, and I had to have a great chemistry bond with my love interest in the film. It’s a big iconic film, and it was very nerve-wracking, especially because I’m just beginning in acting. I had to pull myself together and really just embrace this whole new character.

Do you feel any pressure being in a remake of a movie that was so popular?

Is there any person you look up to the most? How did they influence you while filming Fame ?

- Lyndon Hurst High School

There are so many people - celebrities, family, friends - that have inspired me. But I think, just because it recently happened, Michael Jackson, is such a phenomenal performer. I have been looking up to him since I was six years old. He’s so unique and he teaches you to put your own twist on whatever talent you have. The whole aspect of him just loving what he does and appreciating it so much was really a good thing for me to look up to in my dance career and in my acting career.

- Woodlawn High School

How does the intestity of real life auditions compare with the movie?

How do you relate to your character in the film?

Real life auditions are pretty intense. Some of the cast members battled for their roles for six months or more. I found out in two weeks that I got the part, which was great, but even in that short time, it was very nerve-wracking. The dance auditions were totally insane and grueling. They were cutting people left and right, and throwing things at them they’d never done before. They were really just trying to find the actors and dancers that could fit the epitome of Fame, and I think it’s definitely going to come across in the movie.

It’s such an iconic movie, and there is that pressure. You wonder, are the diehard fans going to like this? But at the same time, the storylines, the dancing, and the music are so new and fresh. I think it will be entertaining for the 1980s Fame fans too.

- Independence High School

My character Alice and I are very much alike. We both love love love to dance, and I so focused and so driven and would do anything for it. She wants and I wanted a professional dance career. It was very easy to connect with this character, because her wants and passions were mine too.

- Peach Tree Bridge High School

What was it like working with the cast of Fame ?

- MACA

Working with the cast was so amazing. You don’t know if you’re all going to click. You never know if you’re going to get along, but every single person welcomed me with open arms when I came in late from the SYTYCD tour. We still hang out to date and they are the best cast mates I could ask for.

What advice can you give to students who aspire to make in the dance and/or acting world?

- Arts of Capital Theater

If you have the passion for it, you’re heart is going to take you there. You really need to be focused on it, and work hard for it. You get rejected all of the time in this business, but that should not push you down. It should just make you stronger.

What do you hope that moviegoers and fans take away take away from this movie?

- Moon Valley High School I hope they are inspired, 100 perfect. This film is about reaching for your dreams, whatever they may be, performing arts or not. I also hope that sit back and enjoy the movie, because it’s so entertaining.

compiled by Emily Cottrell

SCORING THE ROLE. Alice, played by Kherington Payne, performs as the lead dancer in her senior class.

photos/SAEED ADYANI, 2009 METRO-GOLDWYN-MAYER STUDIOS INC.

REMEMBER MY NAME. Left: Denise (Naturi Naughton) performs “Out Here On My Own,” realizing her true passion. Middle: Dance students audition for enrollment at the New York City High School of Performing Arts. Right: Marco (Asher Brook) and Jenny (Kay Panabaker) kiss for the first time. All photos are stills from Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Pictures and Lakeshore Entertainment’s Fame, in theaters nationwide Sept. 25, 2009.

The Lion’s Tale

September 25, 2009

Find the yin for your yang Ever thought a few guys need to get more in touch with their feminine side? Or that a certain girl needs to be a little more masculine? With these activities you will be sporting the opposite sex in no time.

Lindsay Knox

Girls

staff reporter

illustrations/M IRAN

DA HARMON

Paintballing Over the years, paintball has become a popular sport among guys of all age groups. But who says we girls wouldn’t want to experience the same thrill rush?

Orlando Paintball, located at 7215 Rose Avenue off of Orange Blossom Trail, offers the largest indoor and outdoor paintball facilities and anybody is welcome. Of course, the appropriate gear is necessary which includes paintballs, a paintball gun, a facemask and protective clothing. If you have your own gear, you will be able to paintball for the low price of $10.95. So gather up your roughest group of gals and head out to battle in this survival sport.

Dirt biking/Four-Wheeling Looking to get down and dirty? Dirt biking and four-wheeling are activities that are popular on both a professional and pure entertainment level, but few girls are involved.

At Bithlo Motorsports in Orlando, anybody interested in riding can make a payment of $25 per year for a membership.

If you have possession of this membership, you can ride whenever you prefer for $20. If you didn’t already know, this sport can get a bit pricey. You will need a bike, averaging from $2000-$4000, a helmet which can cost anywhere between $300-$600, along with off road riding apparel. Any ladies willing to spend the big bucks and looking for the ride of their lives will enjoy these exhilarating adventures.

Rock Climbing If you’ve got upper body strength and plenty of endurance, agility, and balance, this could be the sport for you. This physically and mentally demanding activity will push you beyond your limits. In recent years rock climbing has become more popular among young men, but is also a great way for girls to show off their strength and mental control. Aiguille Rock Climbing Center in Longwood offers day passes for students interested for a price of $10.75 or a six-day pass for $40.00.

Also, they offer rental equipment including climbing shoes, a harness, a belay device, and a helmet all for less than $10 each. Ready to show up the boys, ladies?

Diversions 19

Miranda’s Culture Corner Miranda Harmon

T

staff reporter

Upcoming theater season: All Greek to Me

Guys

Manicures/ Pedicures A trip to

the salon is not only relaxing, but it will help to improve the look and feel of your hands and feet. This rejuvenating activity should never be enjoyed alone; bring your girlfriend with you. Head on over to the Natural Nails Salon & Spa in the Oviedo Marketplace Mall. This particular salon offer manicures at a low price of $15 and pedicures for $20. The overall calm atmosphere will allow the both of you to lay back and enjoy each other’s company while being luxuriously pampered.

Knitting and Sewing Let’s take it back to the 1950s. Knitting and sewing have become increasingly popular in the past few years, not just for girls, either.

At Sip and Knit, Inc in Maitland, they offer an all-level knitting lesson from 6-9 p.m. every Tuesday night at no cost to you. Make sure to come prepared with your own needles and yarn, while stitch holders, stitch and row counters, and hooks may also come in handy. All of these supplies are available at any Michael’s or Calico Corners outlets. You can pick needles made from steel, aluminum, or bamboo.

Prices are based upon the type of needle you choose to use. You never know when this nifty talent could come in handy.

Yoga/Pilates Is lifting weights not relieving enough stress for you? Yoga and Pilates are two activities that will help you get in touch with your inner self and achieve a new level of high self-esteem.

Red Sun Yoga offers 30 days of yoga classes for a low price of $50 or a 12-month pass of $74.99 (regularly $100/ month). Yoga classes take place on Tuesday evenings from 6:30-8:00 p.m. In order to achieve ‘Moksha’ or union within yourself, you will need a yoga mat and comfortable exercise apparel. Both of these can be found at Target stores for no more than $20. Not only will it make you feel better about yourself, there’s also guaranteed to be plenty of lovely ladies in the class with you.

he first known theatre began in ancient Greece.

Why not go back to the beginnings? This semester, take a break and enjoy some Greek entertainment.

First up we have Metamorphoses, a play based on Ovid’s Book XV of his work of the same name. The play describes the creation and history of the world.

The play was written by Mary Zimmerman, winner of the 2002 Tony Award for Best Director and was nominated for Best Play and Best Scenic Design.

This hysterical production features myths and stories from ancient Greece and includes an eyecatching set. Positioned in the center of the stage is a massive swimming pool. Talented and hard-working actors grace the stage, including Bonnie Kerlin, an OHS graduate.

Metamorphoses begins at Seminole Community College at the Sanford/Lake Mary campus on October 2, 3, 8, 9 and 10 at 7:30 p.m. and October 4 and 11 at 2 p.m. Tickets are $10 for adults and $8 for students.

Next we have The Iliad, The Odyssey, and All of Greek Mythology in 99 Minutes or Less, a comical production at Oviedo High School.

The play includes a cast of 50 students and revolves around Greek myths, particularly including the adventures of the powerful king of the gods, Zeus and the epic hero Odysseus.

The play provides not only humor, but education as well, and ensues a fun evening for all ages.

The Iliad, The Odyssey, and All of Greek Mythology in 99 Minutes or Less will run Dec. 4th and 5th.

These productions are modern and lively renditions of Greek life and mythology that are sure to keep viewers entertained.

Get the Best Free Phone Applications BerryBuzz 2.1

Facebook This convenient application allows the user to access Facebook on their phone or iPod touch with a wifi connection. One can check their wall, notifications and the news feed. This app is free on iTunes or can be downloaded off of most phones for free. It’s useful for those cannot access a computer and want to quickly check thier Facebook..

All Phones

Google Voice is a phone service offered by Google that gives one a separate phone number which you can give out as if it is your regular phone number. With Google Voice inbound and domestic outbound calls are free of charge. Additional features such as voicemail, call history, conference calling, call screening, blocking of unwanted calls, and voice transcription to text of voicemail messages are also included.

Google Voice

All Phones

Pandora supplies a constant stream of free new music to your iPhone. You start out by listing some of your favorite songs and artists and then Pandora will pick up patterns in your preferences and create customized radio stations. For those who don’t have a preferance for listening to the same songs over and over again this app will save you from that boredom.

All Phones

composed by Carly Brower

Pandora

Berrybuzz is an alert tool that allows you to create custom LED color’s for the indicator light at the top of the blackberry. This light can be set to individual contacts and alerts with custom colors so one can recognize who is calling by the color of the light. This is an ideal app for students in class so they can see who is trying to get in touch with them without pulling out their phone.

Blackberry

GoCart

This app is great for those who want to save money. The user captures a photo of a product barcode which then loads onto online databases for comparison pricing in local areas to give you the best price, product availability, and shopping list compilation using the phones built-in GPS.

Android iPhone

Ever want to know where your friends are without calling them?

With “Hey Where Are You” you can. This app is location service that lets you keep track of where friends, family and colleagues are.

Send alerts with your current location to your followers, or send “Hey, Where Are You?” alerts requesting their location.

Hey Where Are You

20 Diversions

September 25, 2009

The Lion’s Tale

Music Reviews Felony

God Help The Girl God Help The Girl Indie Julia Thorncroft

Monsters of Folk

Breakthrough

A

A

B

co-opinion editor

elle and Sebastian frontman Stuart Murdoch introduces a new project full of swift melodies, witty lyrics, and sixties style Caitlyn Braswell Julia Thorncroft Carly Brower female vocals with the new group God co-opinion editor staff reporter co-diversions editor Help the Girl. A narrative album telling fter five years of performing onnecticut band Emmure the story of a young girl’s mental fter Colbie Caillat’s first hit song together, supergroup Monsters of released their third album with breakdown in the modern world, God “Bubbly” on her 2007 album Folk have finally released their a surprising divide of fans. With Help the Girl serves as the prologue to Coco, she has come back with first album. The band consists of artists every record this band releases, their the movie-musical due in 2010, giving another soulful and inspiring album titled Jim James from My Morning Jacket, M. listeners seem to split farther away on Murdoch a chance to indulge his love Breakthrough.

Ward from She & Him, and Conor Oberst the ‘love it/ hate it’ line. for Gallic pop.

Her hit single of the album “Fallin’ for and Mike Mogis from Bright Eyes.

Emmure worked hard at reinventing The album’s covers of Belle and You” captivated listeners with her summerThis ingenious collaboration redefines their sound on their August release like voice and her catchy lyrics. Caillats’ Sebastian hits “Act of the Apostle, indie music and brings back the art of Felony, but for many it fell short. girl-next-door persona appeals to listeners pt. II,” and “Funny Little Frog,” offer folk. Their self-titled album is filled with Frontman Frankie Palmeri replaced and gives off a relatable aura that many a new take on both songs that has groundbreaking harmonies and soulful some of his recognizable screams with artists seem to have lost. potential to open minds and souls. attempted rapping in the middle of songs songs like “Dear God (Sincerely M.O.F.)” Her music is reminiscent of artists like This clearly is a coming-of-age and “Baby Boomer”. The amalgam of these like “Sunday Bacon” and the album’s Natasha Bedingfield, Uncle Kraker, and album and the anthem for every young artists’ voices combined with mellow and single “Felony.” the Plain White T’s, with their soothing woman.

Songs “Musician, Please Take earthy melodies creates intimacy not heard While the hardcore rapping didn’t voices and light easy-going melodies that Heed,” and “Perfection as a Hipster,” since Simon & Garfunkel. gain the popularity Palmeri may have fill the air. Caillat has created a memorable take you on an epic journey that Monsters of Folk have accomplished expected, the band did make some album that fills listeners with a sense of requires some serious soul searching. what few bands can bring about in this day improvements since their 2008 album nostalgia of summer time. Her songs can and age. They have created an album that Although the film may never be Goodbye To The Gallows. The band put anyone in a good mood and she has a lot made, Murdoch’s musical whimsy worked together to create a more diverse merges old folk and indie music in a modern of talent that is sure to widen her fan base. album and succeeded with their varying way. Many bands have and will attempt to Listeners will truly be fallin’ for her and her makes the new group, capable of convey what they have, but will ultimately riffs and catchy chord progressions in standing on their own. music. songs like “I Thought You Met Telly And fail. Their name defines who they are. They DOWNLOAD THIS – “God Help the Girl” DOWNLOAD THIS- “Begin Again” are Monsters of Folk.

Turned Me Into Casper”.

Unlike their past albums that were DOWNLOAD THIS – “Say Please” filled with constant guitar riffs, the Time to grab your tickets because these bands are coming to town. band seemed to step back a little and let the drummer Mike Kaabe bask in All Time Low Senses Fail the spotlight with his drum talents Sunday, Oct. 25 Friday, Oct. 16 throughout the album.

5:00 p.m 6:30 p.m While the band’s sound House Of Blues Orlando House Of Blues Orlando progression has caused them to lose the respect of some fans, they successfully created another Colbie Caillat Attack Attack catchy album that’s worth a Tuesday, Oct. 20 Saturday, Oct. 31 listen.

Emmure Hardcore

C

Monsters of Folk Alternative

Colbie Caillat Pop

Up N’ Coming

DOWNLOAD THIS – “I Thought You Met Telly And Turned Me Into Casper”

photo/EMMURE.COM

6:00 p.m House Of Blues

2:00 p.m The Social

Hilarious TV comedies kick off fall season episode, Sweet Dee (Kaitlin Olson) attempts to be a surrogate mother, but Whats ultimately fails because of her own idiocy.

Other episodes include one on the recent goin’ recession, one titled “The Gang Wrestles on? for the Troops,” and one where the Gang stages an intervention on Frank (Danny DeVito), who mistakes it for a roast.

Julia Thorncroft co-opinion editor Here are some real inquiries; will Green Man make a comeback? What will ave it noted that 2009 will be happen to Rickety Cricket? And how long an illustrious year for not just until Patty’s Pub runs out of business? television, but for comedy as There’s no doubt in my mind that season well. I’ve comprised a synopsis of some five will answer these questions. of the best comedies to watch for the 2009 fall season.

Bored to Death Sundays, 9:30 pm, HBO It’s Always Sunny In Philadelphia Writer Jonathan Ames (Jason Thursdays, 10:00 pm, FX Schwartzman) is struggling with writing There’s only one show that truly pushes the envelope, “It’s Always Sunny his second novel. He smokes too much pot and drinks too much white wine, in Philadelphia”, and its coming back to which results in his girlfriend leaving him Thursday nights on FX. for good.

No other show covers what’s With more time on his hands Ames happening in the world better than gains inspiration from his favorite crime the Sunny gang and their reckless novels he found in his closet. He then shenanigans. You’d think a show full of places an ad in Craigslist as a private topics such as sexism, abortion, racism, detective. and statutory rape would be so offensive Ted Danson unquestionably steals the that it’d be canceled in mid season. But show, playing the role of Ames’s aged if you watch the show, then you know that it’s truly about these moronic, white, party-animal of an editor. In one episode, underachieving semi-alcoholics who will Danson’s character asks Jonathan to never accomplish anything in their lives, punch him in the face, in order to cover up the herpes he contracted. Obviously, and that’s what makes it funny. it didn’t work out as planned. An article Season five, which premiered September 17, brought a stranger take on came out in the local paper talking about political and social views. In the premiere him speaking in public with a giant case

H

The highlight of the pilot episode is when classmate Abed (Danny Pudi) makes frequent references to “The Breakfast Club”, in the most random and absurd moments.

Most of the audience began to watch this show because they love either McHale or Chase. But the reason why people will keep watching the show Community is because setting aside the two stars’ Thursdays, 9:30 pm, NBC statuses, “Community” brings a humorous “Community” brings viewers Joel group to television. I highly doubt that McHale from “The Soup” as the star of this show will last as long as “The Office” the show and introduces him to comedic or “30 Rock”, but the show still entertains legend Chevy Chase. Fans of both should you. It’s doubtful whether this show will not be disappointed by this hysterical new last long. Hopefully, McHale and Chase show. can keep the show running.

McHale plays Jeff, a suspended lawyer who returns to school after his college degree is deemed invalid by the State Bar. In order to impress a girl (Gillian Jacobs), Jeff forms a study group for Spanish class.

Chase, on the other hand, plays Pierce, an old man attending community college and pestering his classmates with his prolong phot o/N BC.C speeches and OM bizarre ideas. of herpes plastered on his face.

The main reason to watch “Bored to Death” is because it’s truly and innocent and unconventional story about a good guy who just can’t get things right. The harder Jonathan tries to help people as a private eye, the more trouble he inadvertently causes.

The Lion’s Tale

September 25, 2009

Diversions 21

Movie Reviews

Slasher flick sure to satisfy Carly Brower

T

co-diversions editor

he remake of the original Lifetime movie Sorority Row will have viewers on the edge of their seats the entire movie. This comedic horror follows five Theta Pi sorority sisters as their prank goes Rating: R horribly wrong when one of their sisters (Audrina Patridge) is Time: 100 min killed. Instead of reporting it to the police they all make a pact to Grade: B cover it up and never tell anyone what happened.

Eight months later the girls all reunite to celebrate their graduation by throwing a huge beer drenched party at their photo/WWW.FILMINFOCUS.COM/FOCUSFEATURES/FILM/9 sorority house. During the party a hooded figure with the murder weapon of DESPERATELY SEEKING HUMAN. Puppets 9 (left) and 7 (right) sprint away from the enemy robot as they journey the fallen sorority sister, a tire iron, stalks the girls and starts killing them off on a quest to to bring humanity back into the world. and their friends. It seems that someone has discovered their secret and isn’t so “forgive and forget” as the girls were.

The heroine of the movie, Cassidy, (Briana Evigan) plays that part Kevin Veloso them with portions of his soul, each of them well of being the girl with a conscious and she fights to save her staff reporter bequeathed with the task of continuing the and her friends. While the leader Jessica’s (Leah Pipes) quick-witted sarcastic remarks and selfish attitude give he shattered framework of structures, human form. the film a much-needed dose of comedic relief. Even the The movie focuses on the events strewn debris, and crumbling sorority’s protective housemother (Carrie Fisher) gets in remains of society serve as the post- of the quest that ensues after number 9 the action by wielding a shotgun and trying to protect the apocalyptic setting for this animated feature. inadvertently re-awakens the scientist’s girls. disastrous robot. 9 brings its viewers on The movie begins with the main This “I Know What You Did Last Summer” film is not only roller coaster of excitement and trepidation protagonist, number 9 (Elijah Wood), scary as well as funny. Although it does lack some originality the as the heroes succeed in battles against a awakening from his creation and gazing characters set it apart from other movies. The unique kills and the stronger opponent, or literally have their beyond the dusty shutters of a window, souls ripped out by the robot in a thunderous lure of discovering who the killer is will satisfy viewers in search through which he beholds the sight of a for a satisfactory slasher flick. flash of electric green.

Victorian England obliterated by battle. photo/thetapi-ordie.com Adding to the over all effect of the Breaking free from the archetype of scenes and story line is the animated features, 9 supplants the Rating: PG-13 amazingly detailed animation. usual warm and fuzzy plotline of a The characters and the Disney-esque movie with a darker Time: 79 min environment they interact with and more impressive one. The Grade: AThe sequel to the hit movie Twilight, New are incredibly detailed to every movie maintains this ominous tone Moon is the story of Bella’s time apart from her groove, bump, and scratch. established in the first five minutes soulmate Edward. During this time she goes With the likes of Jim Lemley, producer and supplements it with fast paced action. through a rebellious stage which leads her to of Wanted, Timur Bekmambetov, director 9 shares its cataclysmic back-story werewolf Jacob Black. She has to learn to cope of Wanted, and Tim Burton,writer of The with movies such as The Terminator or withoout Edward as well as face the prospect of Nightmare Before Christmas, it was bound I Robot, in which the super advanced a new love. sentient machines of man’s creation seek to to be a superb movie. The voice actors were supersede and annihilate humanity. Despite also a big-name list that included John C. photo/ WWW.TWILIGHTTHEMOVIE.COM Reilly as No. 5, Jennifer Connelly as No. the growing movie trend towards robot Each Halloween a new Saw movie premieres and this year is no different.

7, Christopher Plummer as No. 1, Crispin induced apocalypse, this movie sticks out Following the infamous murderer Jigsaw’s idea of torturing people to cure them Glover as No. 6, Martin Landau as No. from all the others due to its non-genericof some destructive act, Detective Hoffman becomes the fallen killers’ successor.

2, and Fred Tatasciore as No. 8. The only way-above-crappy story and animation.

But when the FBI seem to becoming closer to unmasking Hoffman he decides to possible downside to such a cast would The movie begins the tale after the play an unforgettable game, one that will reveal Jigsaws’ master scheme. either be expecting No. 9 to start yelling fighting has subsided and rendered both about a ring of power and the Shire, or man and machine extinct, save for a single waiting for No. 5 to start saying “shake and functioning robot and a scientist’s prodigy. bake.”

Playing the role of this movie’s heroes is 9 is definitely underestimated by a a band of nine humanoid burlap puppets Based on the bestselling book by Alice majority of the post-pubescent movie going bearing a resemblance to rag dolls, each of Sebold The Lovely Bones follows the story community due to its PG-13 rating and them labeled with a number corresponding of 14 year old Susie who was brutally raped listing as an animated movie. In light of the to their chronological order of creation. and murdered. She tells her story from “hard economic times,” however, I wouldn’t In an attempt to preserve the little heaven and watches as her family tries to say this movie is a ‘must see.’ But if you that was left of humanity, the scientist solve her murder. happen to be going to the movies anyway, 9 responsible for the rogue sentient machine created the nine burlap puppets by imbuing is definitely the movie to watch.

Nine humanized puppets set out to save world

T

Upcoming Movies New Moon

Saw VI

Nov. 20

Oct. 23

The Lovely Bones

Dec. 11

photo/WWW.THELOVELYBONES.COM

22 Diversions

September 25, 2009

The Lion’s Tale

Wear it your way Fashion trends kickin’ it up a notch Kaitlyn Loughlin

A

COVERED IN THE CLASSICS. Junior

Kadee Turner wears the classic black/white worktop dress. Turner accents her outfit with accesories such as a wide belt and long, silver necklace.

MATCHING MATTERS. Sammy Mike is strutting his skull design vans and he coordinates his t-shirt to compliment his one of a kind shoes. all photos/KAITLYN LOUGHLIN

staff reporter

nimal print, tie-dye and peace signs, or even sandals with a million straps.

Sound familiar? Of course, everyone’s bringing back the boogie in a more upbeat fashion.

From the disco era of long shirts and spandex to the heavy metal rock period of skinny jeans, spiked belts, and wild logo t-shirts, recent teen clothing development demonstrates an increase in putting a new twist on wacky wardrobes of the past.

“I absolutely love the teen trends the past few years. It brings me back to my dynamite free-spirited days and I always approve of the outfits. It’s a huge step up from the belly shirts, bulky jewelry, and skimpy skirts from ten years ago when my eldest daughter was in school,” said Lindsay Knox’s mother, Jann Knox.

Parents and teachers would both agree that this century’s choice of clothing creates a more positive image upon young adults.

“Student-teachers in The Little Lion’s Preschool interact with the children and their parents on a daily basis so it’s important for them to look suitable. Their flair shirts, leggings and such, allow them to look their finest at school while also looking appropriate,” said Brenda DiNardo, head director of the program.

The ever popular, work top dresses seem to be evolving from the poodle skirts of decades ago, and have changed tremendously since then. They range from cheetah print in crazy colors to the traditional black and white design and allow women of any shape or size to look suitable in any occasion.

“I’m obsessed with vintage anything,” said junior Lindsay Broadhurst. “It excites me to see people my age express themselves through their wardrobe, and not be looked down upon for not following the crowd. It gives more kids an open mind on fashion and many different styles are socially accepted.”

Between laced strap tops, boat shoes, skinny jeans, or wind pants, there’s an unlimited ability to create a style that suits your individual taste.

“I couldn’t always afford the good looks of Hollister, Abercrombie, and PacSun,” said senior Kristy Foto. “But my generation’s style makes it easy for my budget to look just as good, maybe even better, from a Forever 21, Target, or Wet Seal.”

Others, like Foto, also seek the opportunity to save money on apparel and accessories in various ways.

“I buy retail items from places like Plato’s Closet, or other outlet stores, because they have older clothes that are adorable, affordable, and not everyone has them,” said sophomore Brooke Register.

Another popular past time that puts a restraint on one’s wallet and that has been popping up more frequently lately is the braiding of your own string bracelets.

There are countless ways to arange the thread to form patterns of all sorts, and to many this is becoming a hobby.

It’s clear that much of today’s youth has the desire to express their individuality at reasonable costs, and manufacturing businesses are booming with techniques to keep up with the appeal of their consumers.

“I always have to look ‘fresh’ for school because appearance means a lot to me. I can’t get over Van’s new promotion that enables people to design their own shoes. I’ve already ordered two pairs of my own,” said senior Floyd Wilks.

Many clothing companies, including Vans, feel the urge to develop additional ways for people to express their personality and uniqueness through their ensembles.

“I hope to see more interesting trends develop from this and continue in the future because I think it gives our students more unity with each other and the diversity of style among them prevents the common judgments that are based on appearance,” said junior William Reischmann.

ROCK-N-ROLL FASHION PATROL. Kendall Cotters gets in touch with her rocker side by sporting her skinny jeans, spike studed belt and tops it off with an exotic scarf.

FASHIONABLY CUTE. Junior Lindsay Broadhurst

expresses her simple style with stockings, stylish sneakers, a denim skirt, and a V-neck shirt.

How to make your own string bracelets Supplies:embroidory string, a piece of tape and scissors

Step 1: First begin with your four assorted colors of embroidery string and cut each string two feet long.

Align the ends of string evenly and tie a knot two inches from the top.

Step 2: Begin with the furthest left string and tie a double knot around each of the three strings individually.

Repeat until you want to switch to the next color.

Step 3: When switching strands move in order left to right while tieing a knot each time you switch strings. Do NOT go backwards.

Step 4: When completed, leave about three inches for you to tie your ending knot, leaving strands left to tie around your wrist. illustrations/EMILY COTTRELL

The Lion’s Tale

Sports

September 25, 2009

23

1,2,3 HIKE. Oviedo’s defensive line prepares for the snap to defend the goal line in the Lake Brantley game.

BELLY POWER. Fellow Oviedo students cheer on their Lions with their stomach’s spelling O-V-I-E-D-O during the Lake Brantley game.

MAKE THE PLAN. Head coach Wes Allen talks to senior quarterback Blake Bortles during the Lion’s win over defending state champions, Seminole High School. The Lions won 16-14

Football team re-invents itself ON THE GROUND. Senior Trevor Berry is tackled by a Lake Brantley defender.

Abby Wakas gotten a lot closer, we’ve become staff reporter more like a family” said Stone.

A

standing room only crowd “And having Stu on the team, is watched as the Oviedo pretty awesome. He’s a nice guy.

High School football team He really opened up to us and he’s pounded last year’s defending a really good player. He has a lot state champions, Seminole High, of history with the game.”

New running back junior and won 16 to 14 in the first game Steward Butler, #14, is not only of the season. new to the team but also new to The Sept. 4 game signaled fans Oviedo High School, transferring that the football team has their from Lakeland High. head in a new place.

“He plays an important part in “After a not so good season last the game.

I’m actually glad he is year, this year the team is coming just a junior so we can have him back a lot stronger,” said Head back next year too,” said Allen.

Coach Wes Allen Thursday before “If I had to play against the game against Lake Brantley Lakeland it wouldn’t bother me.

High. “This year we have been I’m on this team now, that won’t working a lot harder” According to junior Austin effect me at all,” said Butler. “My goal is to go pro. My brother is the Stone, team members one who inspired and recognize the change in pushed me harder to each other. play this game. I “A lot of things have want to make him changed since last year,” proud. And football said Stone, wingback on to me is the only the varsity team. “Last sport I’m good at.” year the team wasn’t as Butler motivates serious about the game. I the team, but he also guess you could say they Steward Butler ‘11 makes the time to were more of the party go off by himself to team. They cared more focus on the game. about what they were going to do “I like to be by myself, get after the game.” away from the team and just think, Stone believes this year’s team and look at the other team’s tapes has bonded. to see how they play,” said Stewart.

“The team wasn’t as close last “I’m always nervous before every year, but with the seniors gone and game.” the new juniors in the team has

all photos/ COURTESY SCOTT WAISANEN

GOTCHA. Two Oviedo defenders take down a Lake Brantley running back after he received the kick off. The Lions lost in a heart breaker after leading for most of the game.

The team saw Varsity senior Tyler Dudley suffered a concussion in the practice right before the season started last year, and this year he finally gets to play on the team.

“I’m really glad I get to be on a good team. All the guys have a better attitude towards each other and the game. This year we’re all really wanting to win and coach has gotten a lot more strict,” said Dudley.

Coach Allen pushes the guys a lot harder in the practices according to some of the team players. He also put sophomores

Dayo Adisa, CJ Slater, Anthony Gonzalez, and Devon Dwyer on the team. He even put freshman Alton Meeks on as second-string quarter back, the only 9th grader on the team.

“We have some really good players that take a big role on the field, like Blake Bortles, and Trevor Berry. We also have some pretty good new kids like Trevor Liljenquist,” said Dudley.

“Blake Bortles is definitely one of our lead players. Right now he’s committed to UCF so he’ll be playing there next year,” said Allen. “There’s also Trevor Berry

and Chris Gallon on running back, and Qumar Lewis, Johnny Boston, Marques Thomas and Tyler Shaudion on Deffense, they’re all good players.”

According to junior Justin Jones, the hardest team they faced was Lake Brantley and the toughest one coming up is going to be Evans High on Oct. 9.

Many feel that the team is off to a great start.

Christian Serrant, sophomore said “This year’s team is great. I’m glad to say I’m an Oviedo fan,”

24

Sports

September 25, 2009

The Lion’s Tale

Girls down undefeated Dr. Phillips “Getting a win over undefeated

definitely was a revenge factor Connor Bailey going through all of our minds,” Dr. Phillips was a really important sports editor said junior opposite hitter Jackie win. We played like a complete team

Ashley

Miller ‘ 12

G

irls volleyball team remains one of the top programs in the state after making the state playoffs for six consecutive seasons.

This year’s season started off with two early losses to Lake Howell High and a heart breaker to Lake Mary, however with the disappointing losses, the season has take a turn for the better “After the two early loses we worked a lot on our defense which has really started to show up in our recent matches. We changed our mindset on our matches, playing to win,” said senior setter Megan Pando.

Riding a match seven win streak, the Trinity Prep Invitational Championship, and beating Lake Mary in five games, the ladies are happy with the way the season is now progressing.

Taking on the Lake Mary Rams for the second time turned out to be a thriller, winning in five games producing a dominating performance in the fifth game.

“Beating Lake Mary the second time was so satisfying. Winning really showed everyone that we are good enough if not better than anyone in our district. There photos/JOHN CAMPBELL

and gave us a lot of confidence for meeting high ranked teams in the playoffs,” said senior outside hitter Gaby Ruiz.

Oviedo beat Lake Brantley in the finals.

“Brie Merriwether’s competitive spirit was what the team needed during the tournament,” said Long.

Neff.

From then on, the team never looked back. In their path was rival Winter Springs High School.

“Getting a win against Winter Springs was very important to our district seeding this year,” said Ruiz.

Taking home another district championship this year is going to be challenging with Lake Mary, Winter Springs, and Lake Howell High Schools all in Oviedo’s district.

“Every game we play now is very important. We really want a high seed in districts to give us a better chances of coming out winners,” said Ruiz.

2 Winning h ‘1 t i m the Trinity eS Juli P r e p tournament was a high of point of the season.

“Our confidence was high as it could be going into the tournament after beating Winter Springs and Lake Mary,” said head coach Chad Long.

The Lions beat Dr. Phillips High, ranked number one in the Sentinel Super Six, enroot to the Trinity championship.

Volley for Hope Date: October 15, 2009 Time: 6:30-9 p.m.

Oppontent: Winter Springs High School Admission: $5 Purpose: A fundraiser to raise money to prevent and reduce homelessness in Central Florida. OHS is donating all admission and concession stand profit to the HOPE Foundation.

The Lion’s Tale

Block & Nation, P.A. Family Medicine Board Certified Family Medicine Caring for Newborns to Adults

Bradley Block M.D. Craig P. Chase M.D.

PH 407.678.0688 Fax 407.678.0252

Caring Hearts, Healing, Hand!

Amy J. Nation D.O Susan G. Smolen

September 25, 2009

Advertisements 25

UCF TEST PREP E X P E R T.

LOCAL.

AFFORDABLE.

Accepting most major insurances Except medicare and medicare

www.blockandnation.com

2441 West Sr 426 Suite Oviedo, FL 32765 on Aloma Ave South of Chapmen Road

Broadway Music Academy Oviedo’s Music Store

Lessons, Sales, Rentals, Repairs 10% off any one item with coupon.

Limit one coupon per person. (Exp. 10/31/09)

1785 E. Broadway St. Oviedo, Fl 32765

•

407-359-2828 •

broadwaymusicacademy.com

SAT ,

there’s sports l, o o h c s ’s re The events. there’s social e

Fashion Frames Custom Contact Lens Fittings Family Eyecare Eye Exams For All

Then there’s th

?

Are you ready rep you will be.

P With UCF Test W W W . T E S T P R E P. U C F . E D U 407.882.TEST

26

ULTIMATE

Sports

September 25, 2009

The Lion’s Tale

FRISBEE Game unites friends from OHS, WSHS photo/CARSON BAILEY

HEADS UP. Sophomore Dj Riordan throws a frisbee to fellow players at Trotwood Park, where students from local schools get together to play ultimate frisbee on a weekly basis.

Kaitlyn Loughlin

I

“I still joke around with [Riordan] that

“When Dj told me about his weekend competing for the win, but it doesn’t result

staff reporter the only reason he knew where to run was experience with ultimate Frisbee, I thought in a fight. It gives us an opportunity to bond t just hit me one day.” said sophomore because we play shirts versus skins, and he it sounded like a silly waste of time, but without having too much of each other,” said

Dj Riordan. “Literally, I was walking home past Trotwood Park one day, when it knocked me in the head. Somehow or another I ended up being dragged into the game by my friend, Max,” Dripping waterfalls of sweat on a scorching Saturday afternoon at two o’clock, Riordan attempted his first game of Ultimate Frisbee. He knew he could never refuse a close friend’s plea to try something new.

“We only needed one more player to complete our two teams of seven versus seven, so I had to get [Riordan] out there with us. We all knew he’d be just as hooked on playing as we were,” said junior and friend Max Castrillon.

As someone who had no experience with a new sport, Riordan anxiously awaited with nervous butterflies to jump into a game completely uninformed of basic guidelines to this unfamiliar game.

“I wasn’t good at all during my first few rounds. Actually, I was terrible, but everyone was really nice to me since I didn’t know any rules or even recognize any of the players, for that matter,” said Riordan.

Riordan felt discouraged about his menial skill ability and lack of knowledge towards the game and its members, but out on the field, acquaintance, Mike Finocchio, comforted him by explaining some tips and the names of other teammates.

followed the direction of those who were run- once he said he was going to play again on junior and sister, Paola Castrillon.

While some players like Paola and Max ning shirtless,” said junior and fellow Fris- Wednesday, he persuaded me into giving it a Castrillon enjoy the game exclusively to shot,” said junior Sean Moskal. bee player, Mike Finocchio. “He wandered bond with family and meet new friends, “I learned about it through some friends around the field, extremely lost in confusion, Claire Volheim conveys a different approach I went to Indian Trails Middle School with, but I could understand why since many of to her love of the sport. who now attend Winter Springs High.

They the kids playing attend Winter Springs High “My attraction to the game is mainly schedule our practice days via Facebook School and weren’t at all familiar to him,” caused by my pleasure to play co-ed because group, and we send out many invites.

I even For Riordan, this interaction with kids we have such a wide range of skill level upon got my sister into playing with us too,” said from other schools seemed strange because each person.

I don’t see teams split into boys Max Castrillon. he was used to the rivalry between the two and girls, it’s just a bunch of my friends havUsually, you can find Max Castrillon high schools that battled out the ing a good time together and not ‘who’s better’ status annually. basing our teams on who’s the “We play with kids from Winbest,” said junior Claire Volheim. ter Springs High School simply Although Volhiem hopes that because there are few Oviedo The Field: A rectangular shape with more girls will get into the sport, High School students who are endzones at each end.

A regulation she embraces the activity as a involved in this sport, and know chance for her to have fun with field is 70 yards by 40 yards, with about us. I wish we could get more friends. people from our school to join us, endzones 25 yards deep.

“Everyone who plays, defbecause it’s really fun to play and initely pursues it for the love of the almost everyone who tries Scoring: Each time the offense comsport, and the turnout is about 30 i t loves pletes a pass in the defense’s endpeople, most from Winter Springs i t , ” High School and Oviedo High zone, the offense scores a point. Play said School, and even some players is initiated after each score. who have progressed on to college,” said junior Ernst Romer.

Mike Finocchio and Ernst recommend that anyone who hasn’t tried playing should look up their Facebook group, called and his sister, Paola Castrillon arguing over Fun Frisbee Stars and get information on F i n o c - petty matters, just as in any common sibling joining them because according to Finocchio N O love/hate relationship, but Ultimate Frisbee and Romer, its great exercise and you meet a chio.

RM HA A Riordan rare- united them as friends, as well as brother and lot of new people.

ND RA I

“I consider it a ‘no-strings-attached’ ly heard about how sister. /M ion t kind of deal, because the absence of any kind a “I never thought I’d enjoy doing somemany people his age were str illu of coach or requirements are non-existent, thing alongside my little brother, but it suractually engaged in playing Ultiand it relieves the dread of stress, making it prisingly brings us closer.

We’re not always mate Frisbee. He decided maybe he could an absolute leisure sport that I can say proudon the same team, which gives us the adconvince his peers to get involved in it with ly I love to play,” said Riordan. vantage to have a little sibling rivalry with him, as well.

Scoring on field

$5

tickets available at the door; proceeds benefit the Hope Foundation

October 15,

Robert Lundquist Gymnasium Oviedo High School 6:00 -9:00 PM

Call (407)365-1551 for more information, or email marypcom@earthlink.net

The Lion’s Tale

September 25, 2009

Sports

27

The Roar Lindsay Knox

“LET’S GO, BIG O!”

Varsity cheerleaders Kodee Mann , Lauren Dennen, and Lauren Leto pump up the crowd during the pep rally before the Oviedo vs. Lake Brantley football game.

photo/KEVIN VELOSO

S

Girl’s slow pitch works to improve Girl’s

tarting off the season at a slow pace, girls slow pitch is currently 1-7.

“Every game, we have improved defensively. Our young freshmen and sophomores have definitely stepped up and started playing more,” said Coach Williams.

Last year, the team was comprised of a large proportion of seniors.

With little carry over for this year, the team is mostly made up of new players. Working towards another win, they have been practicing particularly hard at improving their offensive game. Chelsea Wildey, junior, playing as shortstop, has greatly improved both her hitting and pitching.

D

Cross country keeps high hopes

espite losing their valued seniors to graduation, both boys and girls performed superbly at the Deland Invitational with the boys placing 5th and the girls 9th.

So far, this is the best the girls cross-country performed this year.

“Due to enrollment issues, we are down in number and have dropped from 4A to 3A. But we still compete against several 4A schools. We aren’t as strong as last year, but we are still doing very well and constantly improving,” said Coach Hamontree.

So far, their leading runners are senior Daniel Schmidt, for the boys, and sophomore Natalie Shepard, for the girls.

with Kevin Veloso

bowling season starts off strong

T

he girls bowling team is thus far undefeated, beating Seminole, Lake Howell, Winter Springs, Lyman, Lake Brantley, and Crooms so far. The team is composed of Captains Allison Jessee and Julie Leonard, seniors, Kelsy Burr, junior, Victoria Fairman, Alexa Cornell, and Courtney Wright, sophomores. All of them are returning members.

On Monday, Leonard set a school record for the highest 3-game series ever from a girl, 653, also the 3rd highest for the entire conference. Oviedo’s lady bowlers are considered favorites in the running for the state championship. They are currently in a distant first place, overpowering Hagerty Prep by around 2,000 pins.

The boys are 4-2, losing to Seminole and Lyman.

Senior Cory Liljenquist set a school record for his 715 series.

Ed Miller

Sophomore Ed Miller on, off the track

Lion’s Tale: What do you enjoy doing in your free time?

Ed Miller: In my free time, I like to eat, sleep, and hang out with my friends.

LT: How long have you been running Cross-country?

EM: I have been doing cross-country for four years, 6th, 7th, 8th, and 10th grade.

LT: Do you have any siblings or pets?

EM: I have seven siblings. I also have a dog, a cat, and four turtles.

LT: What is your favorite movie?

EM: My all-time favorite is probably Team America: World Police.

LT: What is your favorite book?

EM:The Count of Monte Cristo.

LT: What kind of shampoo do you use?

EM: Head & Shoulders LT: Do you like the red Powerade or the blue Powerade?

EM: Blue Powerade, it tastes better.

LT: Who would you kill first, Edward or Jacob?

EM: Who the heck are Edward and Jacob?

LT: Do you put the jelly on your bread before or after the peanut butter?

EM: I put the jelly on after because it’s impossible to put peanut butter on jelly.

LT: Do you put your pants on one leg at a time? If so, which one do you prefer to do first?

EM: Yeah, I put my pants on one leg at a time. I put my left leg in first, but I don’t know why.

photo/KEVIN VELOSO

staff reporter

Sweet revenge marks Seminole game

T

he warm up clock winds down: 40 seconds, 39, 38… My heart is pounding so loudly I feel as though everyone around me can hear it.

In one corner of the field, the OHS varsity football team huddles together chanting “OVIEDO” with a sort of hungry excitement as I, along with the rest of the crowd, begin to join in on the rumble.

Simultaneously, the bands from both sides of the field begin an uproar of musical enthusiasm that made me believe I was at Battle of the Bands instead of on the field.

But that’s exactly where I am, and it’s game time.

I watch as varsity captains Blake Bortles, Marcus Thomas, Brandon Ramsey, and Trevor Berry approach the center of the field; face-to-face and sharing intimidating handshakes with 6A Defending State Champions, the Seminole ‘Noles. Feelings of fear, determination, and revenge flow through the humid Sept. air.

“Go orange! Go black!” The screams of cheerleaders begin to drown out the yelps of encouragement from Oviedo fans as the game moves into action.

A few quick plays and we’re two minutes into the first quarter, Oviedo with possession of the ball. In the blink of an eye, the whole crowd is speechless.

Senior Trevor Berry (#7) travels 83 yards down the field for an Oviedo touchdown.

Family, friends, and fans all around me are instantly up on their feet. It’s 6-0 Oviedo, and the whole stadium has a newfound faith in their team.

But keep in mind that this isn’t our field, or our city, or our home. Seminole High thinks that they have control of this game. Little do they know, OHS came here to make the seemingly impossible, possible.

After an outstanding fumble recovery from OHS safety junior John Boston (#4) this formerly undistinguished team becomes unstoppable, as if nothing is able to bring them down.

Seminole makes a touchdown, so what?

“Let’s go, Big O!” Nobody is losing hope. Not the cheerleaders or the dancers, not the band, fans or coaches. And especially not the players.

Suddenly, I feel like my heart has dropped into my stomach.

“This can’t be happening!” runs through everybody’s mind in the stands and on the field as SHS scores a touchdown, bringing the score to 14-13 Seminole.

In an attempt to put an end to the Seminole football reign, junior Scott Harvey (#17) prepares for a 20 yard kick that could make or break our team.

The crowd, the bands, the cheerleaders, the dancers, the coaches, and the entire team is on their feet, waiting in heart-pounding restlessness.

“HARVEY! HARVEY! HARVEY!” Spectators cheer in unison as Harvey is lifted by his teammates in a frantic frenzy as the pigskin soars through the goal.

Nothing feels better than being on top of the game. With the score at 16-14 Oviedo, a final field goal attempt from SHS is the decider of the game.

Every fan, every coach, every player is holding their breath.

Seconds begin to feel like hours as I watch the kicker launch the ball up, far to the right, completely missing the goal.

Players are hugging, fans are cheering, and nobody can believe it. Oviedo High School, my high school, defeats the 6A Defending Champions, Seminole High School.

The varsity players went out on the field knowing exactly what they wanted and what they had to do to accomplish that, never questioning their tactics, skills, and the hours of preparation and practice they put into this game.

“We wanted to come out on top of this game. We knew we had to fight hard and end up with a big win like we did,” said Boston, “Revenge is great.”

28

Advertisment

September 25, 2009

The Lion’s Tale

The Pizza Effect.

*Receive 10% off check with student ID Coupons cannot be combined with other offers

Football Special!

2 Slices - Chesse Pizza Great 2 - 18” Cheese Pizzas, & Fountain Drink

$5.00 Exp 10/31/09

2 - 14” Medium Pizzas

only at...

Nick’s

Restaurant & Pizzeria

2 Toppings Each

$16.99 Exp 10/31/09

up to 3 toppings each

$26.99

Exp 10/31/09

18” Large New York Style with Cheese & 3 Toppings

$15.99

Exp 10/31/09

1500 Alafaya Trail, Oviedo . 407-366-7330 . www.nicks-pizzeria.com . 10am - 11:30pm . 7 days a week