The Lion's Tale - Volume 49, Issue 8 by The Lion's Tale

Chemistry teacher Coach Waisanen wins Coach of the year for the second year in a row. Check out all senior sports awards.

Find out interesting facts about this year’s Top Ten seniors.

page 25

pages 16 and 17

Issue 8

601 K ing Street

LION’S TALE M a y 15, 2 0 0 9

Volume 49

y m f ’ o e i t t u e ‘O , swe y a w

ROLLIN’

Oviedo, Florida

THROUGH

HALLS.

(clockwise starting bottom left) 1. Seniors Samantha Beash and Kim Clark dress up in bizzare clothes for Wacky Tacky Day. 2. Senior Chelsea Lyon limps through the commons in search of food. 3. Seniors Kristine Lim and Addison Parsons show off their elderly look through the courtyard. 4. Seniors Christine Tat, Christine Cedeno, and Jessica Mccue share laughs over their Power Ranger costumes. 5. Senior Zach Zigmond channels in his inner sciencetist on Ten Years from Now Day.

TV Character Day kicks off Senior Week Julia Thorncroft

photos/VELOSO, FIDRICK, MCCARTHY

activities that

staff reporter last throughout the

regnant nurses filled the halls on Thursday, April 30. Senior Week finally arrived, and on that particular day seniors dressed up as what they’d be like ten years from now. “I wasn’t surprised seeing all of the pregnant nurses,” said senior Christine Tat. “Many people are going to have children in ten years and nursing is a great career. I enjoyed seeing everyone’s costumes and many of them were original.” Senior week lasted from April 27 to May 1. The categories included: Television Day, Wacky Tacky Day, Senior Citizen Day, Ten Years from Now Day, and College Day. The leadership class selected the days for Senior Week. “It took a couple of days for leadership to vote and choose which days we wanted, but it didn’t take too long,” said SGA president senior Nick Goodwin. The Leadership class consists of a small group of seniors who are leaders in the Student Government Association. They select most of the spirit days and

school year. “We looked online for ideas which took a class period,” said SGA vice president senior Gabi Garbade. “Some of the days that were rejected were Camo Day, Construction Worker Day, Twin Day, and Imitate a Teacher Day.” Some students found the themes for Senior Week mild in comparison to some of the rejected days. “If I could change something about Senior Week, I would have different days,” said Tat. “Twin Day and Imitate a Teacher Day may have been interesting to see how people dressed up. I think they should’ve come up with something more outside the box though.” While some seniors anticipated the week’s festivities, others like Goodwin were less supportive of Senior Week. “Some students have gone to extremes and

see SENIOR, page 3

Superiors stack up at state Thespian festival of the best’ at states.” ever and received two superiors for Carson Bailey Not only did Mila win Best- it.” staff reporter in-Show at the Florida States Drama had one of it’s most

enior David Mila pushes through the crowd, heart pounding, searching for his name on the posted list. Eyes wondering up and down the endless piece of paper until he spots his name: David Mila – Best-in-Show. “Best-in-Show is never on anyone’s mind. Especially in mine. I mean it was states, getting a superior is hard enough,” said Mila. “I was very honored to be awarded the award that basically means ‘best

Thespians Festival, but the Oviedo High School Thespian Troupe won five additional superiors along with 18 superiors at districts. This year has been the best year for the drama department according to senior Chelsea Price. “We made more superiors than ever at both the district and state levels. I received Best-in-Show at Districts, David Mila received it at states,” said Price. “We brought our one-act to states for the first time

rewarding years this year and now Oviedo High School will be sending two high school students to Nationals in Nebraska. “Myself and David Mila will be going to nationals. It’s approximately $555, but totally worth it,” said Price. “Over $12,000 in scholarships will be readily available along with casting agents. Nationals is located in Lincoln, Nebraska and will be taking place see DRAMA, page 2

DRAMA

PROM.

Thespian troupe 4564 pose for a picture outside of the Tampa Bay Preforming Arts Center before going into Drama Prom. Organizers of the festival hosted the prom designed especially for students who were not able to attend their school prom.

photo/ COURTSEY OF APRIL SULLIVAN

May 15, 2009

News

The Lion’s Tale

Troupe spends hours preparing from DRAMA, page 1 from June 22 to the 27.” Receiving these honorable awards was not achieved light-heartedly. Students have been rehearsing over and over again since the end of the last school year. “The students selected their piece at the end of last year and have been working on them in class and outside of class ever since,” said drama teacher Jenn Devine. Senior Jonathan Mercedes and junior Spencer Moothart spent numerous hours together to make their duet musical perfect. “Any chance I had to practice with Spencer, I would take. We would work on our vocals and re-practice our blocking,” said Mercedes. Drama students went to extremes to prepare for the competition at states, and at one point or another were considered crazy. “I prepared for states by rehearsing my monologues whenever I had a chance. People thought I was talking to myself, constantly,” said Mila. Though preparing for competition may have been tough for some students, in the end it was well worth it for Mercedes. “All of our practicing was tiring but it helped us to prepare for the unexpected,” said Mercedes. “Joining troupe 4564 was one of the most rewarding decisions I’ve ever made. Over the past years I’ve made many friends and had an amazing time acting on stage.” Senior Thespians want to ensure that future thespians know that performing is not only for the recognition and awards, but something for yourself. “When you perform live in the moment and realize what exactly it is you’re doing,” said Mila. “It isn’t always about the awards, if you’re having a fun time and enjoying yourself then keep on acting.”

Mane Attraction dance team takes home gold, silver, and superior at FDTDA The Mane Attratction Dance Team competed in the F.D.T.D.A. Dance Competion that took place at Oviedo High School. The Junior Varsity team won 1st place or their Hip Hop routine, 2nd place for their Jazz routine, and recieved the superior rating. The Varsity team won 2nd place for their Hip Hop routine and also received the Excellent rating. In addition, the Varsity choreographer, Stacy Bayse, was recongnized for best Jazz Choreography.

Updates from the Florida Legislature

According to the St. Petersburg Times, Bright Futures, the merit-based scholarship that has helped send more than one million students to public college in Florida, may not cover the 15 percent tuition hike most universities plan to start charging in the fall. More than 95 percent of UF freshmen are on Bright Futures. This will cost individual students at least $197 per year, covering the base tuition increase of eight percent that lawmakers plan to approve with the budget. This number will double for students who attend a college that chooses to raise tuition the full 15 percent. Although it will raise the amount of money students will have to pay, this could save the state $34.4 million dollars. Other budget developments: • The House and Senate agreed to maintain funding for Advanced Placement and International Baccalaureate. • The Senate has backed away from a planned 15 percent cut to the Florida Virtual School’s $116 million budget.

End-of-the-Year Senior Activities

As the school year comes to a close, there are a couple dates for seniors to keep in mind before graduation. May 27 - Last Day for Seniors May 28 - Senior Picnic and Farewell May 29 - Graduation Pratice at UCF Arena June 2 - Graduation at UCF Arena

State Awards

SONG AND DANCE. [Top] Juniors Callie Porcher, Gina Scheraldi, Shelby

Maniccia and fellow Thesipian WSHS junior Sandia Ahlers join Joey Fatone, baritone singer from the band *NSYNC, at a Thespian workshop. “I felt so giddy because I was totally in love with him when I was younger,” said Porcher. [Above], Phil KelseyHolland performs a number in the drama department’s latest musical, The Wizard

Straight Superiors - April Sullivan - Solo Musical Straight Superiors - Chelsea Price - Monologue Straight Superiors/Best in Show - David Mila Monologue Straight Superiors - Jonathan Mercedes and Spencer Moothart - Duet Musical Straight Superiors - Love is a Hot Fudge Sundae - One Act Superior and Excellent - Pantomime

of Oz.

BREAK

Senior Semester Exam Schedule

May 22 - Periods 2 and 5 May 26 - Periods 3 and 6 May 27 - Periods 1 and 4

Cassanova Performing Arts Center. Their performance at districts earned them straight superiors and enabled them to be one of the five schools in Central Florida to attend state competition, where the OHS drama department also took home six superiors.

May 28 - Period 1 and 4 May 29 - Period 2 and 5 June 1 - Period 3 and 6

Underclass Semester Exam Schedule

LEG.

Love is a Hot Fudge Sundae in the Gerald

Underclass Nine-Week Exam Schedule

Sophomore April Sullivan, seniors Chelsea Price, Jonathan Mercedes, and Christen Price and junior Lexie Knerr reherse their award-winning one act titled

June 3 - Periods 1 and 4 June 4 - Periods 2 and 5 June 5 - Periods 3 and 6

photos/COURTSEY OF DRAMA DEPARTMENT

OHS r eads mos t, scor es highes t on FC AT wr iting

Emily Cottrell

co-diversions editor

n average, each student at Oviedo High School checks out four books per month, according to recent checkout statistics. In the month of March alone, students checked out 1409 books from the Media Center. “Although we remain the smallest high school in the county, we have the second highest amount of books checked out from the school. We were thrilled to see that we had such high checkout statistics. I think it has had an effect on the FCAT testing. The more you read, the better vocabulary you have, the better writer you are, and the better student you are,” said media specialist Carol Coulon-Woods. Oviedo High School achieved the highest FCAT Writing scores in Seminole County, obtaining the highest average score of 4.3 on the essays. 76 percent of the sophomores who took the test scored a 4.0 or above, the highest percent

in the county. “Reading is probably one of the factors that make us score higher than a lot of other schools. I’ve looked at the other schools’ reading programs, asking the question, ‘What do we have that’s different?’ I think that here at Oviedo, we’ve developed a culture of reading,” said reading coach Sandy Traeger. The school also received statistics revealing that, with the exception of Hagerty High School, it has the most current fiction collection among Seminole County high schools. “The administration has put a lot of money into our collection and it shows. We’ve made an effort to acquire a lot of current, interesting new fiction. We just want every student to keep come in, check out more and more books, and keep reading,” said Coulon-Woods. Many credit “the culture of reading” at the school to the various reading programs implemented at the school. “We are putting the puzzle pieces together to encourage and improve reading across the campus. The fact that we have

a good selection of books and that students are motivated to come in and check out books is just part of the puzzle. The AR program, the Intensive Reading program, and English classes are also important parts of the puzzle,” said CoulonWoods. Sophomore English teacher Sue Livingston also believes reading remains an essential task in preparing for all FCAT tests, and is excited to see her students excel for their own purposes. Livingston said, “I was thrilled when I heard that we had the best FCAT Writing scores. I am so proud of them. They do have to pass FCAT Reading and FCAT Math, but there is no penalty for failing FCAT Writing. But when they work hard, study hard, read, and do their best to outperform every other high school in the county, they are doing it without expectation of reward. They are doing it because of the kind of students they are – proud of themselves and their school. They simply want to reflect well on themselves and Oviedo High School.”

The Lion’s Tale

May 15, 2009

News

Seniors express mixed emotions about senior week from SENIOR, page 1 exaggerated a bit on their categories,” said Goodwin. “People have gone too far with it.” Like Goodwin who only dressed up for two of the days, few students participated in Senior Week. “I really didn’t prepare a lot for Senior Week,” said Tat. “I didn’t like the hassle of getting the costumes together. My friend made everything for our Power Ranger costumes [TV Character Day].” Possible reasons for seniors’ lack of spirit could be that students had difficulties coming up with ideas for

WHACKY TACKY DAY. Seniors Travis

Lindsay, Martin Trang, and Robby Hayes work hard in class reviewing for an upcoming test while dressed in wacky attire on wacky tacky day.

costumes, prom occurred the weekend prior to senior week, and preparing for AP exams. “Few students dressed up because it was right after senior project boards and seniors just want to be done with school,” said Goodwin. Senior project boards serve as a requirement for all students involved with senior project. The students prepare an eight to ten minute speech about their project, which they present before a panel of judges. Despite the pessimistic views of some students, other seniors appreciate

Senior Week as a long lasting memory. “I believe Senior Week is important because the seniors get to dress up and express themselves either in a comedic way or how they see themselves in the future,” said Tat. As senior week faded, AP exams began at 8 a.m. the following Monday morning. Students taking exams were excused for the whole day. “I had to schedule the last policy debates around my students taking AP tests. It got really complicated because students were working in teams. When one would be here, the other one wouldn’t

be,” said Deb Jepson, Debate teacher. AP exams lasted two weeks, finishing May 15. Scores will not be in until the third week of July. Oviedian Yearbooks arrived Tuesday, May 12. The senior signing pary was held May 14 in the old gym. The yearbook staff served light refreshments while the seniors picked up their yearbooks. Yearbooks are now on sale for all students. Cost is $80 and must be paid in cash. Students who want to buy books should come to room 21-023.

STRUT YOUR STUFF. To the left, Bertetta dressed up for the theme 10 years from now, and at the bottom, Gallinson stands dressed as a senior citizen. These students went all out to make their senior week more fun and memorable.

photos/KEVIN VELOSO

OLD AND WISE. Senior Kristan Lee dresses up for senior citizen day and enjoyed being able to play the role of a senior citizen for a day.

May 15, 2009

The Lion’s Tale

Opinion

“Quotes are nothing but inspiration for the uninspired.”

Richard Kemph

OUR WORD

LION’S TALE

Refuse to read, miss an opportunity to grow

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

t was stated by Edward Bulwer-Lytton in 1839 that, “the pen is mightier than the sword.” This statement has never been as true as it is in the modern age – where reading acts as a foundation for effective human communication. Before there were televisions or computers, most are aware of the fact that reading was a primary leisure activity. People would lose themselves, explore countless ideas from the safety of their own minds. The only tragedy is that, with time, people have lost their skill and passion to read. There are so many enthralling alternatives available that reading has been downplayed as a form of entertainment and means of gathering information. This is shameful, considering reading offers a productive approach to improving vocabulary and word power. Since the implementation of Accelerated Reader, Oviedo High School has thankfully enjoyed an overall greater interest in the practice of reading. It can be surmised that the academic domination of Oviedo over other schools is due, in part, to our redoubled reading efforts. Although we are the only school in the county to still rely on AR as a teaching tool, we have also consistently maintained the highest FCAT writes scores around. Beyond sophomore year, it is required by more intensive English classes that students indulge only in literary classics. While this system has its fair share of detractors within the student body, it can’t be denied that it awakens latent abilities within those who take it seriously. Although forcing students to read seems, to many, like a deterrent, the process actually serves to augment one’s range of known vocabulary. Consequently, exposure to new theories and terminology broadens a student’s interests.

Not only do they become more attuned to the human condition, readers are instilled with a sort of curiosity that prompts them to question the nature of the world around them. Getting students to read their textbooks is hard, we’re all aware of this truth. Getting them to read books just for the sheer pleasure of reading has become considerably harder. Still, the fact that students reap great benefits from reading and programs such as AR cannot be doubted or questioned.

Widespread success merely requires that teachers take an interest in the lives of their students. They must instill in students a real love for reading, groom them in a manner that urges them to be lifelong readers. Regardless, we, too, must play a part. We must understand that the future rests in our hands. We must come to the terms with the fact that if we do not expose ourselves to new things, the future won’t be worth living.

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. (21-020) Editors-in-Chief: Miranda Ghali, Stacey Sterling News Editor: Victoria Persampiere Features Editor: Tiffany Ray Diversions Editors: Carly Brower, Emily Cottrell Sports Editor: Connor Bailey Opinion Editors: Kevin Baird, Jordan Hugh Sam Photo Editors: Graham Christensen, Brooke Fidrick Staff Artists: Miranda Harmon, Michael Mangos, Kevin Baird Staff Technician: Graham Christensen Advertising Editors: Ryden Butler, Faculty Advisor: Deborah Jepson Administrative Advisor: Anna McCarthy Principal: Robert W. Lundquist Staff Reporters: Carson Bailey, Caitlyn Braswell, Marsha Gibbs, Tien Holmes, Nirvani Khan, Maggie Kipi, Tova Kranz, David Parsons, Colin Perry, Caitlin Smith, Julia Thorncroft, Kevin Veloso 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 21-020. Anonymous columns or letters will not be printed, though names may be withheld upon request.

One final goodbye: take care of yourself

BA IR

VIN

/K E

tion

element

stra

The human

It is these things that prompt the artist to censor himself. It is this force that compels the scientist to adhere to petty morality. It is this very power that shackles the actions of the great to the desires of the weak. Carl Gustav Jung once said, “We cannot change anything until we accept it. Condemnation does not liberate, it oppresses.” When left to our own devices, we instinctively respond to superficial shortcomings with shame rather than tolerance. Subsequently, we tear ourselves apart and spiral so far into the pit of despair that life is brought to a standstill. Few people are willing to recognize their faults as fixed facts of life. Fewer, still, proceed to embrace their faults, the past experiences as potential strengths. What some fail to understand is that it’s impossible for anyone to exist without such defining attributes. Our authentic selves rest deep within us as innocent children. When we surrender to the world due to humiliation and anxiety at the hands of our faults, we forfeit that innocence. To relent is to be in violation of the most heinous crime. It is to hold the lives of others in higher regard than your own life. Only positive thinking can determine that we are adequate and circumvent this unsatisfactory future. illu

have been friends was the easiest way to keep from getting hurt. But the longer I went without what could be called a “true friend,” the worse I felt about my own existence and the harder it became to develop meaningful relationships. Learning from my folly was a gradual process that failed to produce any noticeable changes until midway through middle school when I accepted my situation and became Kevin Baird co-opinion editor willing to open up. You see - what we recognize as “self” defines who we are. Because there is ’m not going to try and sugarcoat this in any way. A little under decade or so ago, I little difference between how we interpret ourselves and how we are interpreted by had major social problems. Around the age of seven, I was the new kid others, self-perception can make all the difference in the world. on the block. And up until that point in time, The corridor leading to fulfillment mine had been a largely nomadic lifestyle. and bliss runs through darkness. As an itinerant I’d seen more of the How we traverse this passage is world’s beauty; amassed more pleasant not determined by anything beyond experiences than anyone could ever hope to. personal resolve. Determination acts Unfortunately, living in constant as a torch, allowing us to forge ahead movement guaranteed that settling down through obscurity. in the little town of Oviedo would prove a If our path forward feels tortuous happening. Due to my unique background, I believed blocked, it is blocked by our own private views. Our fears that nobody understood me. In actuality, I are an obstruction that not only didn’t even understand myself. I had never known anyone my own age and, consequently, affect how we treat ourselves, but how we are regarded by our fellow man. found it hard to empathize with those who When we cling to negative populated my latest setting. Amongst the carefree little creatures at my perceptions we’re actually dooming ourselves to an inescapable cycle of school, I was the one who preferred to tuck himself away in the corner rather than mingle failure. We are all stopped by illusions with his classmates. Truthfully, I think the idea - self doubt and all the quirks that form of being rejected by those with whom I had discrepancies with the accepted status quo. nothing in common was more than I could We fear that we may not be accepted by bear. others. More importantly, we fear the idea of My distrust of others meant that every acknowledging this weakness that is present in unpleasant incident seemed like a deliberate all human beings. attack. Closing myself off from what could

We are not simply shapes and symbols. We are physical expressions of internal thought processes. Self-awareness enables us to stand apart and, to an extent, even determine our own success. The popular suggestion of “accepting yourself” is fine advice. However, it is the interpretation of said advice that tends to get people into trouble. Should you accept your current condition and shrink from the challenge of striving for something greater? The concept of individual growth asserts that we should expect to be constantly improving, manipulating events in our favor. To develop, we must concentrate on our potential, not our limitations. Hope has enabled us to dominate over nature and sculpt the world in our image. It is the only thing that can aid humans in their effort to seize the future. When life has been wiped from the face of the Earth, when the Moon and the Sun are both gone, our intangible success and failures will serve as the final testament to mankind. Eternal commemoration merely requires us to have the courage, the determination, and the will to become what we’ve always believed we were meant to be. I find it comforting to think I’ll know myself more intimately when that time comes, that I’ll no longer be unaccustomed to the prospect of being liked by others. My hope is that loving myself will evolve from a daily chore into natural habit. Likewise, I anticipate that each and every one of you will manage to do the same. As you strive to reach your highest potential, my only request is that you take care of yourself along the way.

The Lion’s Tale

May 15, 2009

Opinion

P i n i n g f o r a c a m pu s l o n g f o r g o t t e n For heavens sake, the new “Commons” doesn’t even have school colors. That still baffles me. Our colors are black t used to be a “Commons.” It used to be and orange, not green, purple, and whatever the meeting place. else color is in that building. At the beginning of this year, it was The colors, I read, give off a positive a construction site, then dubbed a cafeteria, atmosphere but I want my Lion atmosphere and now back to a commons. back. I loved when the bell rang, and a rush However, I ponder Anonymous Rex how such a building of students, all different sizes, all different such as the new “Commons” can be given such a prestigious name. It should be called a colors, pushed and shoved trying to get from class to class. cafeteria. It was enthralling and exhilarating. I grew When I became a Lion, the first week of August, the year 2005, the population of the to love Oviedo High School for the things most people don’t love. school was close to a blistering 3000. There were absolutely no lockers my I remember the lunch lines packed, so packed that you got your food when the tardy freshman year, now there are buildings with hallways full of empty lockers. Trying to bell rang and you were already late to the find a locker during ninth grade was really next period. walking into a lion’s den. I remember the fights; I remember the The school I loved no longer exists. culture that the previous commons used to Please don’t get me wrong, the staff hasn’t have. Yeah, it was dirty. Yeah it was old. But it changed and I still feel loved but it was something about walking into a school that was mine. It was the first building I walked has been around for eons. into on that August day in 2005. Not really, but that’s what it felt like. I established myself in that room, the silly kid that danced everyday in the center of the Now I feel like a prisoner in my own school. Everywhere I go, there is a locked door. walkways. The old commons, even the dirt, Man, do you not understand how bad that was rich with past time and past history.

Tien Holmes

Staff Reporter

However, Oviedo’s previous beauty far sucks, especially since for the last three years outshines the glamour of the 2009 campus. I’ve been used to getting in and out I dream of the day, I can walk through the of building with ease. hallways again and call school home. Think of it like this, The foundation is gone, but my you are in love with a girl memories will never fail. named Oviedo who had long Dear Oviedo, dear beautiful hair. Then one day, Oviedo, you remain you walk up to Oviedo and her the best. Through hair is cut. the years we’ll all You fell in love with her hair, remember OHS. and how she would purr when you rubbed your fingers through it, now she’s bald like Britney Spears was. What happened to my Oviedo? I remember building 2A, 2D. 2C, and how they all used to connect to the real “Commons” and everyone would have to see everyone. I remember how students would all congregate around the front of the school, which used to be the busloading zone. Oviedo used to be perfect for me. Not just for me, but for all the friends that I have that share the same opinion. It’s a beautiful campus, photos/GRAHAM CHRISTENSEN no doubt.

Face life with optimism, never forget the good times count on. I know that I can call them up at 3 a.m. and talk to them if necessary. I hope that everyone has gained at least one always thought that my senior column friend they know they can count on. It doesn’t would be the greatest thing that I would ever write, because it would be the last thing matter how many you have but how many you can trust and depend on when things get rough. that I ever write for the school newspaper, If it wasn’t for my newspaper friends, and the stress would be over. But I have I wouldn’t be the co-editor-in-chief of the learned to love every waking newspaper and spend numerous hours of my minute of newspaper. time in the newspaper room. From the late If it wasn’t for my best friends, I wouldn’t night work nights to have woke up at 5:30 am every single morning the laughter I face of my high school career and made the journey everyday in class, all to school. of those moments out number If it wasn’t for my amazing teachers, I the stressful work nights and the wouldn’t have stayed awake in school and been agonizing hours before press. enriched. My high school career has been If it wasn’t for my parents, I wouldn’t have one of the most rewarding experiences I have ever had, and I just know that there everything I have today. Some advice to the graduating class. You is more out there for me to learn. I want everyone to know that even don’t have to take it, just consider it. To be successful, fall in love with your if your high school experience wasn’t work. Everyone at some point is going to have exactly like you wanted, do not give up pick a career, don’t pick one you’re going to hope because there is more out there. hate. Who wants to get up at 7 o’clock and go Every person walking across that stage on June 2 has the opportunity to make a to a job they hate every morning? Mistakes will be made, but that is the price difference in someway. one pays to learn. Don’t keep repeating the I know some people will leave same mistake over and over, learn from them high school and never look back and make things better. but I think that if we forget what Optimism makes all things better. Life will we have learned and gained in high throw many obstacles at you whether they be school we can never truly be happy. personal or professional, but if you face them It is the friends that I have with optimism things will become brighter. gained through high school that I know I can

Stacey Sterling

co-editor-in-chief

Don’t fake a smile, but find something that makes you happy. I know there is more to learn, and so much to be gained throughout my life’s journey. I hope, among other careers, that I will be surrounded by doctors, lawyers, teachers, pharmacists, engineers, and physicists at the 2009 10-year reunion. There are so many people that have helped me through out my high school career, and this column wouldn’t be complete without thanking a few people. I want to thank Mrs. Miericke for being the most amazing Spanish teacher, Mrs. Petschell for renewing my interest in science, Mrs. Jepson for never giving up no matter how hard things get, Mr. Jesse for always keeping English interesting. Mrs. Gibbs for making me laugh, Mr. Boggs for his neverending Boggisms, Mrs. Gaston for putting up with everyone’s senior project complaints. I want to thank my grandparents and parents for understanding when I had to cancel something because of newspaper conflicts. ` Finally, I want to thank my newspaper friends for never letting newspaper become dull. From the moments at FSPA when we thought life couldn’t get any less stressful, to the moments when we thought newspaper would literally kill us you have stuck by the newspaper and I am eternally thankful for that. Never forget the orange and black, but move on and make new memories, learn new lessons, and make a difference.

Columnist goes bananas for ‘a-peeling’ story Michael Mangos

staff artist

Staff columnist Mike Mangos wrote the following column as a satire on his newspaper career. His tongue incheek approach is meant as humor.

enior Rick Skudzby has gone bananas. “I’ve been bananas my entire life laughs Skudzby. “I’m not even sure what normal is anymore.” Skudzby, a new transfer student from Minnesota seems to have a hard time blending in. “I’m not sure but I think it’s the banana suit” says Skudzby. “Most people find it unusual.” Skudzby, whose entire family died when he was seven years old doesn’t understand what all the fuss is about. “After my parents and my six sisters were killed at that fair, I’ve never been the same. Mostly it made me want to wear a banana suit everyday.” Skudzby explains how it happened: “It was those damn bumper cars, none of the seat belts

were working properly,” said Skudzby. “It was a massacre. They said they wouldn’t stop the ride because people would want a refund.” Fortunately Skudzby survived. “I wanted to go on the ferris wheel instead,” said Skudzby. Despite Skudzby’s ability to overcome obstacles sometimes it can be difficult to deal with people. “Some people just don’t like bananas I guess,” said Skudzby. “Middle school was really tough, I was beaten up a lot which was really bad because I bruise easily, almost as easily as some sort of fruit. A pear maybe? I think they beat me up because most middle

school kids don’t get their daily recommended allowance of potassium. Having a kid dressed as a banana around them only reminded them of that.” Skudzby explains that there are some advantages to wearing a banana suit everyday. “I never have to worry about what I’m going to be for Halloween,” said Skudzby. “Also, whenever I go to the zoo the monkey exhibit gets a whole lot more exciting. The suit makes job interviews a little awkward but if I ever wanted to apply at that Tropical Smoothie place I’m pretty sure I’d get the job. I probably wouldn’t be inside making the smoothies though.”

Skudzby says he’s trying his best to fit in at Oviedo by trying out for every team the school has available. “I tried out for the basketball team but when I got to the try-outs they mistook me for some other school’s mascot and beat the crap out of me. Maybe they were just looking for an excuse to beat up the banana suit kid.” Though Skudzby has had a pretty crappy life so far he remains optimistic about the future. “It’s tough to be depressed when you’re dressed as a giant banana,” said Skudzby. “I think things are starting to go my way lately anyway. I mean look, I got my own story in the school newspaper. I’d say that’s pretty a-peeling.” Note: Skudzby got the job at Tropical Smoothie Café but was later found dead from heat exhaustion after a long day of dancing on the side of the road. He will not be missed.

Opinion

May 15, 2009

The Lion’s Tale

Senior shall recall educators with fondness

my experience with a former person in authority who told me that no college am about to graduate: a phrase that I would accept me and that I would amount wasn’t necessarily expecting to hear to nothing. myself say. I’m about to go to college: Through all of this, she wasn’t simply a another phrase that until about three resource, and was also an excellent friend months ago, I wasn’t going to say. and confidant. I can’t imagine why she In the past 12 years I’ve struggled put up with me, unless it was the flowers I with deciding on how to take my future; gave her. whether or not I wanted to stay in school, One of the greatest challenges in the go to college, explore art, computers, and past four years was with my AP Physics more. The choices were abound – and I B class, taught by Mr. Soos. A grouchy wasn’t sure which to pick. old physicist, who is willing to torture his Through the journey there have been students with challenges and mental games several teachers that have understood my – it was truly a joy to be in his class. predicament and have been a pleasure to At my family Christmas party one work with. fateful night, a family friend – Mrs. Jepson At the top of this list is freshman – came to visit. English teacher, Mr. Friend. Truly an About half way through I was cornered inspiration, I never actually accomplished between the fire place and a wall, and she anything relating to his class. I was plenty asked me to join Newspaper to be the Staff interested in the material, however interest Technician – the kid that doesn’t work in completing these tasks was quite except to fix silly problems and send the minimal. While this probably irritated him, newspaper to the printer, staying for up he seemed to accept it. Also, the time he to eight hours after school fixing small tried to make me fail my first semester was issues on the newspaper so it would print fun, too. properly. Guidance counselor Ms. Roberts is I was then moved to a columnist, a tied with Mr. Friend for first, as she was a writer, and finally a photographer. She champ at listening to my long explanations put up with my antics, and for that I’m as to why I was going to skip BST and go grateful. Even if the class, schedule, and into Web Design I. workload can be exceptionally crippling A week later I gave her a very familiar and torturous. speech about why I was going to skip Web Finally, Ms. Pope – the photography Design I and go right to Web Design II. teacher here. She’s vastly expanding my She also assisted me in my journey to exit knowledge of photography and opened my AP World History my sophomore year, eyes to the possibility of art – something I and gasped in horror when I recounted would have never looked into before. Her Anonymous Rex ??? Graham Christensen co-photographer

sarcastic and bitter nature sweetens every day with a touch of sick laughter. These five individuals, and all the others have brightened my life and opened up my horizons to include a terrifyingly vast array of options. It might be a curse, but I consider it a gift. Everyone that has cannot possibly fathom the extent by which you have all impacted my life. Impressive.

Teen thanks teachers who helped her find ‘a home’

Brooke Fidrick

co-photographer

hen I first set foot on the OHS campus as a freshman, I immediately wanted to

leave. The opening of Hagerty High school my freshman year resulted in the school district rezoning its parameters. Once zoned for Winter Springs High school and already having completed one year of Latin there, I found myself forced to attend OHS completely against my will. As I wandered aimlessly from class to class, I pictured my friends from middle school arriving at WSHS, ecstatic at the

prospects and possibilities afforded to them as full-fledged students in the Latin program. I loathed my situation—mostly the isolation and promise that was cut short the moment the fatal letter arrived announcing the school board’s intentions. However, this rather desolate first day of school does not adequately represent the entirety of my high school career. I’d like to treat this column not as a cliché reflection on my time spent in high school, but as an opportunity to offer long-due gratitude to the

Ryan Bertteta

‘09

“Getting kicked out of band. Band means a lot to me. Luckily I was able to get back in.”

selfless individuals who helped me find a Fiorica, Mrs. Haskel, and Dr. Johnson, “home” at OHS. Though some still work administration and guidance officials, at OHS and others have left to pursue who despite the inevitable yearly visits to objectives elsewhere, all have contributed work out the bugs in my schedule, always significant effort into ensuring the success obligingly helped me and went through of the Latin “program” developed here. the trouble of creating a whole “class” for Those who I would like to express my my one period of Latin. appreciation to are as follows: And, finally, Mr. Robie, Latin teacher Ms. Coulon-Woods, Mrs. Hartley extraordinaire, who never complained and Mrs. about the changes in his Dike, librarian style he had to “This rather desolate first day of teaching and media endure to accommodate school does not adequately represent my physical non-presence specialists, who for four the entirety of my high school in his classroom, as well years have not as always found time to career.” hesitated to Brooke Fidrick, ‘09 help me outside of the offer whatever classroom. assistance Without the they can in whatever problematic aforementioned individuals, I sincerely circumstances arise, and consistently doubt that my high school experience offered both genuine concern and would have turned out as well as it did. insightful advice. As for the rather cliché advice, I guess Mr. Fox, media assistant, who could I can manage to dole out some. To put always crack funny jokes, recite portions it mildly, there are a lot of people on of Amo, amas, amat, and would call me this planet. When you apply for a job the “best Latin student at OHS.” or to a college, chances are that a lot of Mr. Votiline and Mr. Woods, tech competitiors will be vying against you for specialists, who despite my obvious that coveted spot. technological ineptitude, would never Take that “path less traveled” early on hesitate to resolve whatever technical in your life--high school is an opportune issues arose with the video cameras, time. Doing so will set you apart frrom computer, document camera, and the all-too-similar masses, and can earn television sets. you the desired success. Mr. Lundquist, Ms. Lindeman, Mr.

Mariel Garcia

‘09

“I didn’t have a bad moment. I loved all of high school.”

Heather VIsnov

‘09

“When in Mr. Friend’s class, Jesse Young decided to spray water all over my pants to make it look like I wet myself.”

The Lion’s Tale

May 15, 2009

Congratulations Class of 2009 from the Administration at OHS

Joshua B. Abell Carina N. Ablanedo Yousef M. Alaidi Nicole K. Alers Ashley S. Anderson Meredith R.Anderson Ashley A. Aschoff Brittany E. Atkinson Jared M. Bacile Aaron K. Badgeley Emilyn C. Banfield Krista E. Baroody Jason O. Barrios Anthony Q. Barrows Bryan A. Bateman Courtney L. Bates Chris M. Bathke Erica R. Bauer Paul M. Beard Amanda L. Beck Cody S. Beckman Kevin L. Beebe Natalie A. Bellantoni Channing A.Benjamin Alyssa R. Berganini Michael A. Bertalan Ryan G. Bertetta Matthew C. Bertrand Alyson L. Berube Charlie S. Beverly Chris K. Blackmon Grady J. Boardman Megan R. Bodiford Samantha Boesch Korey M. Bogle Dary Bolanos Patrick H. Borger Edward J. Boyd Michael L. Braddy Bryan E. Brancaccio Laura E. Brancheau Hannah L. Brazier Traviss Bridgewater Shannon Broderick Nicholas C. Brooks Alli E. Brown Brittany N. Brown Corey A. Brown Andrew J. Buckshaw Nicholas A. Buelich Carrie L. Buraszeski Scarlett A. Burleson Chris M. Burns Shawn N. Butler Sara R. Byram Zachary T. Cabral Joseph D. Calkin Adam S. Callaway Robert L. Caperton Dominic Capleton Anthony Carpanzano Lauren N. Carroll Ashley M. Carter Jenny F. Carter Joeriel A. L. Castillo Sherina D. Castillo Jennifer K. Cavaretta Christine A. Cedeno Christopher Cham Carly N. Chapman Graham Christensen Genevieve Christianson Collin T. Christmas Monica A. Chun Clare I. Chura Malcolm Clapsaddle Kimberly J. Clark

John E. Clore Chris D. Cobert Joshua T. Coleman Melissa L. Coley Jonathan Collazo Sydarius Collier Evan D. Collins Daniel E. Colom Andrew M. Colón Elisa I. Concepcion Lisa R. Cooper Christina M. Correa Brynne A. Coupland Bekah J. Cox Kelsey J. Creager Courtney M. Curtin Jeremy P. Curtis Andrea D'Andrea Cynthia D'Aulerio Nicole M. D'elia Alexa R. Dahlstrom Caitlin D. Daugherty Kyle E. Davis Valerie de León Ian F. DeLong Taylor B. Dechen Scotti-Marie Delaney Amanda K. Dimmick Aaron C. Dobo David H. Dodge Marissa H. Donnelly Kevin M. Dulhagen Scott A. Duncan Vanessa L. Dunson Tyler Dupre Jessica L. Durand Benjamin M. Duval Nicholas J. Eaton Tabetha M. Ehlert Charyssa L Ellis Nathaniel E. Enos Clayton J. Epperhart Christian R. Escobar Amber L. Evans Larry L. Evans David A. Fernandez Brooke A. Fidrick Timothy K. Findling Victoria E. Flachner Juliette M. Flaim Matthew C. Flowers Paul F. Fontaine Joshua D. Foskett Amanda L. Foster Rashawn K. Francis Thomas J. Franz Ryan T. Fuerst Stephanie Gallinson Alyssa D. Gantt Gabrielle J. Garbade Alexander J. Garcia Eduardo J. Garcia Mariel E. Garcia Ryan R. Garcia Katherine E. Gebing Matthew C. Gender Brian A. Germ Shane X. Gibbins Dwight E. Gibiser James R. Gibson David E. Giesler Benjamin J. Goff Samuel J. Goff Corey D. Goldberg Jonathan F. Gomez Michael A. Gomez Nelissa Y. Gonzalez

Christopher J. Goode Nicholas L. Goodwin Ariana R. Gotter Emily N. Granobles Darayavaus Grayson Aleshia A. Griffith Jayson T. Guerrier Renae L. Gurtis Mark D. Gushiken Michael J. Habuda Amanda L. Hampton Katlin M. Hamrick Brittany R. Hamstra Todd M. Hankins Jeremy L. Hansen Jeremy G. Harris Meighan E. Harris Kathryn L. Hartshorn Yousef M. Hasan Christopher A. Hawk Robert L. Hayes Heather E. Heath James R. Heckle Tyler F. Heil Amber M. Herring Charles A. Hill Ryan J. Hirst Kathryn E. Hisle Laura A. Hobbs Samantha N. Holland Aaron D. Hollowell Tien C. Holmes Tyler M. Hudson Kimberly L. Hughes Krysten M. Hulet Charles H. Huynh Justin M. Hyde Jamie L. Indiveri Tara A. Ingalsbe Jennifer J. Ireland Dustin C. Israel Justin W. Ivie Kelsey L. Jackson Kevin W. Jacobs Heather L. Jaeger Shah Jahan Caitlin M. Jaye Cheryl R. Jenkins Stephon D. Jenkins Robert O. Jennings Steven L. Jentsch Michael A. Johnson Lauren M. Jones Kayla M. Juliano Katie L. Kaiser Samuel J. Kaiser Lindsey R. Kaplan Dustin H. Keyes Billie J. King Adam M. Kipi Bret D. Kirby Jessica L.A. Kirk Alexandra Kirkland Corey A. Kirkland Logan M. Kranz Sydney A. Kranz Evan D. Krause Ricky J. Krenn Hyun-Ae Kuh Kathan Kumar Samantha Lafontaine Allison S.Y. Lama Christian M. Laming Garrett Langhauser Kristan S. Lee Jessica L. Lehrer Daniel R. Leonard

Andrea L. Lewis Kimberley J. Lewis Mason B. Lewis Kristine E.C. Lim Travis J. Lindsay Xun Liu Amanda C. Loftus Kimberly H. Loiars Robert L. Lowe Monica I. Luciano Korissa N. Lumia Trey W. Lundquist Carly N. Lupo Shane A. Lynah Kaella B. Lynette Chelsey A. Lyon Kimberly E. Lyttle Alexander L.Mack John M. Magda Brittany L. Maggio Miguel Maldonado Taylor A. Malkus Ashley Malmstrom Michael N. Mangos Angelo D. Mannino Casey L. Maresco Ariel C. Martin Colton A. Martin Lisseth Martinez Brianna K. Marton Paige E. Matherly Leandra M. Matos Joshua A. May Victoria E. May Vanessa A. Maziarz Jessica M. McCue Joshua J. McGhee Kaitlyn McGuire Hannah D. McLean Branden McMillan Sarah D. McNulty Debonny N. Meagher Emily A. Mellen Thomas P. Mena Jonathan Mercedes Nicole M. Metcalfe Joseph J. Metych Donald C.Metzger Leah S. Micohen David M. Mila Caitlin D. Millich Megan L. Minter Kayla M. Mitchell Kiva F. Mitchell Robert J. Moore Henry E. Moorhead Alexandra E. Mora Paul M. Moran Gina M. Morf Kathryn L. Moriarty Davin G. Morris Matthew D. Mosch Lauren R. Muller Kara L. Mundelein Kyle A. Murphy Colton G. Myers Justin P. Nash Chris D. Nelson Jade R. Newman Joshua M. Newman Marissa A. Nichols Danniel R. Nieves Sharon Nieves Ray E. Noah Troy R. Norton Kevin D. O'Brian Justin R. O'Neil

Seth D. Ostrofsky Myia A. Owens Samantha M. Owens Dianelys E. Padron Bailey L. Pagels Bryce L. Pagels Michael J. Palazzolo James A. Palmieri Seantal S.R. Panton Frank D. Pardo Kwang J. Park Addison E. Parsons David J. Parsons Linda W. Parsons Stacey R. Paul Hilary L. Perry Kelsey M. Peters Sarah L. Pettigrew Troy S. Pilato Nevin C. Place Kelsey A. Poling Amanda C. Politsch Lauren M. Pollock Jeffrey D. Potts Chelsea V. Price Christen N. Price Cameron Pridemore John M. Prince Jessica L. Provencher Kayla R. Pyecha Ryan J. Quinn Alexis M. Quiros Dawson W. Radau Marie-Agnes Rahbari Leanne E. Ralph Eduardo F. Ramirez Shane M. Recicar Amanda N. Reed Jake M. Reeve Alyxandra K. Reimer Dairon Restrepo Hannah K. Richards Kerise Richardson Steven M. Rickey Grace C. Riera Elizabeth J. Rivera Jordan E. Rivera Luis F. Rivera Deanna M. Rock Alexandra M. Rodas David A. Rodriguez Lissette I. Rodriguez Hosea Rogers Shelby L. Rogers Jessica C. Romero Destiny N. Rose Stephanie N. Rutan Adam P. Rynczak Kendall S. Ryser Cory M. Sacharoff Manuel C. Santana James M. Santiago Xavier Santiago Lilla N. Schlotzhauer Baylie E. Scott Kyle B. Scott Steven C. Seidman Ashley I. Seijos Joshua E. Self Stephanie Sessions Stephanie L. Shoup Mitchell J. Shumway Amanda L. Simpson Taylor E. Sirman Austin E. Smith Austin W. Smith Brock W. Smith

Candice S. Smith Devin N. Smith Jamie C. Smith Kyle R. Smith Edward Sosnowski Joshua P. Spadafora Ellyn Spangenberg Christopher Spataro Danielle A. Speroni Blake A. Stein Katie E. Stephens Kyle T. Stephens Stacey A. Sterling Caitlyn E. Stevenson Amanda J. Stoff Christopher Sullivan Caitlin F. Swan Christopher C. Sweet Jessica E. Swenson Alex J. Szakovits Christine Tat Amber L. Taylor Nicholas P. Taylor Lynn K. Telzer Lauren R. Terry Harryson Thevenin Ariel M. Thomas Zachary Thomason Jamenique Thompson Jena S. Thompson Shayna A. Thompson Sarah L. Thorncroft Ian A. Thornton Jonathan H. Tran Martin H. Trang Laura C. Tripp Lucas D. Trosine Trent M. Trulock Dalton T. Tucker Megan L. Tucker Katia A. Vales Ileetza Virginia Rose Vallejo Melissa Varga Mathew C. Vega Heather L. Visnov Christopher Wagner Tracy E. Waguespack Charles E. Walker Rhianna D. Wardian Danielle E. Wayt Robert S. Welch Jason W. Welday Shelby Renee West Rachel Sierra Wheatley Jamie L. Wheeler David L. White Brittany N. Whitesell Zack B. Whitesell Zachary J. Wignall Sara L. Wilcox Mark C. Williams Riki R. Williams Bruce L.Wilson Chad M. Wilson Melissa R. Witt Erin L. Wolfe-Muse Shannon L. Woodard Daniel L. Wriston Chelsea Wunduke Victor P. Yablonsky Jesse D. Young Zachary M. Zigmond Amber Zimmerman John M. Ziolkowski

May 15, 2009

The Lion’s Tale

Features

‘Ice Ice Bab y ’ Prom Court (girls)

Enigma Dance Crew

Creating their own set of rules, Prom King, Queen add pizzazz to traditional dance

Marsha Gibbs

T Rhianna Wardian/ Principal Lundquist

Collin Christmas/ Austin Smith

Sam Owens/ Josh Coleman

at the front desk, attended prom as a

staff reporter chaperone.

“My brother was on court, so when I won I accomplished something he didn’t.” said Goodwin. Although winning Prom Queen and King was the shining moment of the night, other activities stick out in their memories. “Before prom I went to Ellyn Spangenberg’s and her mom made this big spread with crackers, dip, cookies and fruit. Then we all took pictures by a lake and the wind was basically a tornado. Everyone was holding their hair. Also at prom we crammed 10 people in the photo booth. It was a fun time,” said Wardian. Goodwin enjoyed a similar experience. “I’ll remember the ride to prom. About 15 people were in the limo,” said Goodwin. Prom remains one night at the end of senior year that friends get to spend with their fellow classmates before reality of the future arrives. Goodwin and Wardian will join the long procession of Oviedian prom couples.

he moment became anything but “When my mom heard I won she ordinary, when Prom Queen Rhianna started crying,” said N. Goodwin. Wardian began singing “A Moment Sitting at the back table with the Like This” to friend and prom king senior chaperones, A. Goodwin was excited to Nick Goodwin instead of participating in hear her son’s name called. the traditional spotlight dance. “It was really neat to see my “I thought, ‘This is so stereotypical.’ child experience that honor,” said A. That’s why I changed it up and Goodwin. serenaded Nick Goodwin. I am not easily As the night went on, no tension embarrassed,” said Wardian. existed between Wardian and her fellow Prom King Nick Goodwin had different friends who were also nominated on thoughts on the subject. prom court. “I was a little embarrassed. I was more “A lot of my friends were on prom thinking about what everyone else was court. I loved all of the people. There thinking, but it was very enjoyable,” said was no competition. Anyone could have N. Goodwin. won and it would have been great,” said Modestly, N. Goodwin and Wardian Wardian. both said to have been shocked to win. Although no competition existed “I was really surprised. People just within the prom court nominees voted. I didn’t do anything but I was (Joeriel Castillo, David Dodge, Nick excited to have it be a part of my senior Goodwin, Kristan Lee, Kristine Lim, year. My parents were excited too and said Carly Lupo, Alex Mack, Kwang Park, ‘Congratulations!’,” said Wardian. Rhianna Wardian, Jason Welday, Zack Unlike Wardians cool and collected Whitesell, Shannon Woodard), Goodwin parents, Amy Goodwin, the receptionist experienced sibling rivalry. POP, LOCK, DROP. From crowning the king and queen to watching the entertaintaing dance crew, Prom, with the theme of ‘Frozen In Time,’ left Prom goers with lasting memories. photos/LEONARDS ELITE PHOTOGRAPHY

Nick Goodwin/ Principal Lundquist

Prom court (boys)

Frozen ice sculpture

The Lion’s Tale

May 15, 2009

Features

‘Bon voyage’ to friends, family Senior plans to study abroad in Italy

Carly Brower won’t be too difficult. When I started taking school work as well as keeping in touch with Christmas and hopefully in the summer.” co-diversions editor Italian I wasn’t sure if I would like it but I people at home.” Jaye plans on walking as her main way of

hile most seniors are preparing actually loved it because my teacher made it for summer and deciding what to fun and I ended up being really good at it,” do about college, senior Caitlin said Jaye. Jaye is preparing to exchange her money into Jaye has already started thinking ahead Euros and looking for financial aid to go off of what classes she wants to take and her alone and study abroad. degree. “I already knew I wanted to go to college “I’m going to be taking the basic, core in Italy so all I really had to do was research classes to get my AA degree and then I’m and I found this college in Rome called John going to get my undergraduate’s degree,” Cabot University,” said Jaye. “ I traveled to said Jaye. Italy over spring break with Italian teacher Before leaving, Jaye has to apply for a Ms. Vitali for sightseeing and I felt like I fit student visa. in there.” “It’s [student visa] like a green card. You During her fours year have to apply of attendance Jaye plans on through the “I really just want to find things majoring in business, art consulate and history, and Italian. the nearest one is that people normally wouldn’t “The Wales degree in Miami. Once see. I want to explore.” program allows you to I apply it will graduate with three majors. Caitlin Jaye, ‘09 take awhile for I originally just wanted art it to approve,” history and Italian but my said Jaye. mom convinced me to add business because it Jaye is most excited about starting a new is more open to career choices,” said Jaye. “I chapter in her life. would like to pursue a career in international “It gives me a chance to start over new business relations like a delegate to the UN and to meet Italians and experience their or something like that. Then there is the culture,” said Jaye. “I also can’t wait to eat hospitality/tourism side to business that I’m all the food. Gelato is my favorite Italian interested in.” food.” The classes that Jaye will be taking are Admission at the college starts in midtaught in English August where Jaye will be living in a dorm. because the “I’m a little bit scared because I’ll be all school is like alone with no family, but I’m also excited,” an American said Jaye. “ My parents are happy for me, school in but at the same time they don’t want to let Rome. me go.” “ I have Traveling abroad to live for at least four taken five years years requires a lot of planning. of Italian so “I’m going to have to exchange my the language spending and eating money into Euros but b a r r i e r the tuition is going to be paid in American dollars so I don’t have to worry about that,” said Jaye.” I’m trying to figure out what to pack, like what to buy here and what I can purchase in Italy so I’m not really sure about the packing issue yet. I also want to get a Mac laptop for

Tuition for the college does pose some challenges but Jaye is confident in her ability to raise the money. “I’m paying for the tuition, but I don’t have enough yet in my savings. I’m hoping my parents will take out a loan for the fall 2009 semester, and then when I transfer in during the spring 2010 semester I’ll be eligible for more financial aid. I just got a $2,000 scholarship from the school and the school costs $18,000 a semester. But in the first semester they mark you as student abroad in case you change your mind about attending. In the second semester they change it to degree seeking student,” said Jaye. Jaye doesn’t have to worry about paying for food because the meal plan is included in the tuition. But to help pay for the tuition Jaye wants to get a job before she leaves as well as find a job in Italy. “I’m hoping to do a lot of babysitting over the summer because I can’t really get a real job. No one is going to hire me because I’m going to end up quitting before I leave,” said Jaye. “Once I get to Italy the school has this program that allows you to do work around the campus and there are some off-campus jobs that I’ll be looking at, but most of them you have to have a works visa, which I don’t have, so the school told me that there are some places off-campus that will hire me without one.” For Jaye, living abroad means leaving all her high school friends behind. “Leaving my friends is the one thing I really don’t want to do. It’s the only thing that would hold me back,” said Jaye. “But I will keep in touch with them through Facebook and international phone cards. I’m hoping to come home at least once a year for

transportation. “I don’t really want to buy a car there because I’m already going into enough debt as it is, and it would be so hard to drive there. If I need a mode of transportation I’m definitely going the Vespa route,” said Jaye. Other than studying, Jaye wants to continue to explore Europe. “I’ve already started planning a trip to Paris, France and I would like to go to Sicily, and a few other countries as well,” said Jaye. “I really just want to find things that people normally wouldn’t see. I want to explore.” After her four years of attendance Jaye hasn’t set definite plans. “It depends on what happens after four years. I’m taking it one semester a time,” said Jaye. “I’m thinking I’ll want to come home, but if a job opportunity comes up, you never know…a lot can change in four years.” Studying abroad means so much more to Jaye then just receiving a good education. “I just want to try something new and make friends. I want to do it right now because life’s too short, and you never know what might happen, so I just want to live my dream while I still have the chance,” said Jaye. “ I’m excited to be on my own, and I’m not take anything for granted. It’s different, and will be a unique experience, that’s for sure!”

photo/TIFFANY RAY

photo

s/COU

Dear everyone,

I miss you already! Italy (and college) is great. I’m thinking I’ll want to come home one day, but if a job opportunity comes up, you never know...a lot can change in four years. Life’s too short, and you never know what might happen. I want to live my dream while I still have the chance. Love, Caitlin

Italia!

RTESY OF CA ITLIN

JAYE

ROME AGAIN. Senior Caitlin Jaye dreams of attending John Cabot University in Rome, Italy. (Above) Jaye poses in front of an Italian poster while on a trip to Italy. (Left) Jaye relaxes in front of the idyllic scenery of Italy.

Features

May 15, 2009

The Lion’s Tale

Distinguished

Seniors co

‘09

Every year the Lion’s Tale picks out the cream of the crop, the seniors who apply themselves wholly and unreservedly to excellence in one or more fields. Whether they possess musical talent, military asperations or just a great personality, these are the students who’ll wow the crowds with their success at the class of 2009 reunion ten years from now. photos/VICTORIA PERSAMPIERE

Where do you see yourself in 10 years?

In ten years I hope to be settling down into a job in the field of pharmacy. I hope to be planning a trip to some far away country to experience different cultures.

What is your favorite book ever and why? My favorite school-related book was The Great Gatsby because Mr. Jesse actually made it a fun and interesting book to read!

Music is

a necessity to live.

I am

looking forward to college.

The future is

What is your funniest high school memory?

as bright as the surface of the sun!

I wish I had

There are so many! I remember this one time I was walking to my car at the Masonic Lodge with my best friend and I tripped over nothing and fell down. It was so funny! My friend and I almost died laughing.

more time with all of my friends, especially my newspaper friends!

Do you have any words to live by?

“Don’t dwell on the past, look forward to the future!”

Someday, I’ll

make a difference somehow.

Never forget to

take pictures, they last longer.

David Giesler

Where do you see yourself in 10 years?

Most likely I will be at war in Afghanistan, Iraq, or even Pakistan. After high school I will be leaving for boot camp for the United States Marine Corps. There will be six months of rigorous training which will take a chunk out my college life. Once I’m out of boot camp, college is next so I can become an Officer. Once I’m done with college, I’ll go wherever the Corps sends me.

Web Design

Stacey Sterling Newspaper

What is your favorite book ever and why?

I think I’ve only finished about one or two books in my life. I don’t read much but one that really got me interested was Alas Babylon. This book was a struggle between life and death as a Nuclear bomb struck Florida. What I liked about the book was how people learned to work together and use the Where do you see yourself in 10 years? environment to survive until Hopefully acting on Broadway. Not musicals, though, just straight help arrived. It’s crazy what players. I would do musicals, but they’re not my forte. people will actually do when the other option is death. What is your favorite movie ever and why? Some people could handle it, but others could not. The Godfather. It had an all-star cast. That was the era I should have been born into! Marlon Brando was too good.

Music is

a way to keep me motivated while I work out or do homework.

I am

What was your proudest moment?

Winning Critic’s Choice at the state Thespian competition for my monologues; Best-in-State acting.

Music is

ready for any challenge life throws at me.

the greatest joy of life.

is looking bright and full of surprises.

hopefully bright.

The future

I am an artist. The future is

Someday, I’ll

I wish I had

Never forget to

put your loved ones first and remember that life is good!

move out of this boring state. do what you want and let nobody stop you.

more money for school, man.

Never forget to

David Mila

Acting

May 15, 2009

The Lion’s Tale

Features Features

Joeriel Castillo ROTC

Clare Chura Yoga

Where do you see yourself in 10 years?

In ten years, I definitely see my self teaching ashtanga yoga, owning an immense art collection, and eloping to Indonesia with Raoul Bova (or Jason Statham, either one will do).

What is your favorite movie ever and why? Heavyweights = funniest movie ever!

Words to live by?

Describe yourself in EXACTLY five words.

“The Journey is Everything.”

Way too hot to handle!

What do you do after school?

What was your proudest moment?

After school on Mondays and Tuesdays, I usually attend a club meeting (BETA, Yoga, SHS) and volunteer at The Vine Outreach Thrift Store. On Wednesdays, I either work or I do yoga at the YMCA. On Thursdays, I attend a club meeting and/or do YMCA yoga and volunteer again. On Fridays, I volunteer or catch up with friends.

Being the priestess at Lauren Terry and Alex Garcia’s AP Statistics wedding.

Do you have any words to live by? We fly high, no lie, you know this. Ballin!

Music is

Someday I’ll

I am

Never forget to

undescribable.

whatever you say I am.

The future is yours.

have a street named after me. brush your teeth.

Music is

a very personal and inspiring gift to me.

I wish I had

I am Sasha Fierce. The future is

my life on film.

a good or bad consequence, depending on an individual’s actions.

I wish I had

a more assertive personality (when necessary!).

Someday I’ll

explore Machu Picchu, eat green tea doughnuts in Seattle, and view the Running of the Bulls in Pamplona, Spain.

Where do you see yourself in 10 years?

Never forget to

forgive. Those who do so are the ones with the strongest hearts.

I see myself beginning to settle down a little with a satistfying career and trying to live life.

Describe yourself in EXACTLY five words.

Never loses sight of reality.

What was your proudest moment?

Being accepted to FSU because I have wanted to go there for a long time, and it has set me up for a successful future.

What is your favorite movie ever and why? Dead Poets Society because it’s incredibly inspirational and changed the way I looked at life; I learned to look at everything from a different perspective.

Music is

everything.

Kristan Lee

SGA

Where do you see yourself in 10 years?

Planning the 2009 senior class reunion! Hopefully I’ll be successful and settled down with a family.

I am

Words to live by?

The future is

What have you participated in?

“There are still good people out there - if you don’t believe it, look in the mirror.”

excited for life.

unpredictable.

I took part in track and field my first two years of high school doing 100 and 300 hurdles. My sophomoe year I danced for Mane Attraction, and I took part in the Once Upon a Mattress musical as the Jester. Also, my freshman and senior year I cheered for OHS.

Someday I’ll be on a boat.

Never forget to eat your veggies.

Band

Kyle Scott

Music is

Someday I’ll

I am

Never forget to

life stories.

crazy, out of control.

The future is now.

be rich! (hopefully). SMILE!

12 Features

May 15, 2009

The Lion’s Tale

Best laptops for college bound seniors hard-drive

space.

This laptop would be Graham Christensen staff photographer perfect for students,

eniors are preparing to say goodbye to Oviedo High, loved ones, and peers. Many intend to seek higher education and with them, a laptop to aid in their studies. When it comes to laptops, there are hundreds of little options to choose from. The key to buying a laptop is to know what you are looking for, and sticking to a plan. If you are looking to play intense games on your laptop, there is no doubt that Alienware provides what you will need. The Area-51 m15x was named “Kick Ass” by Maximum PC, and dubbed Editor’s Choice, by PC Magazine. With a 15.4” screen, the world’s most powerful mobile processor, up to 8 GB of system RAM and 1TB in hard drive space – this is truly a gaming laptop, and coming in as low as $1,199 directly from Alienware. Another set of powerhouses is the entire Apple line. With these laptops starting at $1,299 they are by no means cheap. These machines are extraordinarily well built. These machines often last for several years, and usually with minimal problems. They are well capable of accomplishing general tasks, as well as more complicated tasks like audio, visual, and graphic processing. Another plus, is these machines are completely capable of running Windows Vista, allowing you to play games and any other tasks that are Windowsonly. For the more reasonable, companies like HP and Dell offer more moderately priced

laptops. From Dell is the Inspiron 15, a 15.6” widescreen weighing in at 5.8 pounds. At

with plenty of power for general-purpose tasks, as well as organizing photos, listening to music, or watching movies. From HP there is the $279.99 HP Mini 1000 Mi notebook. It’s a very minimalistic laptop in a new, popular niche – netbooks. Netbooks are very small computers that can nearly fit into a pocket. It is roughly 9” across diagonally, comes with up to 2GB of ram, and 80GB of hard drive space. These are convenient, and yet still capable machines – intended to be most portable. While it would be a stretch to play many games on, this computer would work well for someone trying to do mostly common tasks. Also from HP, is the G70t, starting at $579.99. With a $17 screen, this is a worthwhile machine. Comes off the shelf with 4GB of RAM with a promotion, a 2GHz processor, and 250GB of hard-drive space. For those of you interested in some form of engineering, a Windows computer should suit your needs. The most command CAD, CAM, and DMU software is written for Windows, and having the right tools is important. When you pick your laptop, account for any large needs such as music and video that you plan on having on your computer. While more media means a bigger hard drive, it doesn’t necessarily mean you need

Alienware Area-51 m15x

Macbook Pro

15” screen, $1,999.00

15.4” screen, 8 GB of RAM and ITB hard drive space, $1,199.00 photo/WWW.APPLE.COM

photo/WWW.ALIENWARE.COM

15.6” screen, 5.8 pounds, $400

Dell Inspiron 15 HP Mini 1000 Mi Notebook

photo/WWW.DELL.COM

9” across diagonally, 2GB of RAM, and 80GB or hard drive space, $279.99. photos/WWW.HP.COM

17” screen, 4GB of RAM, 2GHz HP G70t processor, 250GB of hard-drive space, $579.99

$400, it’s a very reasonable buy. Comes with up to 4GB of RAM, and 320GB of an Apple.

2 0 0 8

Congrats seniors!

2 0 0 9

We’ll miss you on staff next year! From, The Oviedian Yearbook Staff

The Lionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Tale

May 15, 2009

Freshman speaks language of homeland Miranda Harmon

English spoken here. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I learned English reshman Tabitha Ngussa begins each in Africa, but itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s school day like every other student. different, so I had to She wakes up, gets dressed, learn it here too,â&#x20AC;? said and goes to school. However, unlike most Ngussa. students, Ngussa speaks English as a second R o d r i g u e z language to her native tongue, Swahili. explains that Ngussa Ngussa works hard to work and learn fits in with the from English-speaking teachers with English- Hispanic community speaking classmates. at Oviedo. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Sheâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s trying really hard to learn,â&#x20AC;? said â&#x20AC;&#x153;We have a lot of ESOL teacher Maggie Rodriguez, who things in common,â&#x20AC;? teaches Ngussa for one period each day. said Rodriguez. â&#x20AC;&#x153;If I donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t understand, I just tell them, When Ngussa has â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;I didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t understand,â&#x20AC;&#x2122;â&#x20AC;? said Ngussa. â&#x20AC;&#x153;If itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a problem, she often photo/TIFFANY RAY a teacher, they can explain slowly so that I turns to her group of LEARNING THE LANGUAGE. Freshmen Angie PĂŠrez and Tabitha Ngussa work understand.â&#x20AC;? friends. together on improving their linguistic skills during class by reading Shakespeareâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Romeo and Rodriguez uses a variety of techniques to â&#x20AC;&#x153;Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re very Juliet along with a recording. understand Ngussa when the language barrier protective,â&#x20AC;? said gets in the way, such as a Swahili-English Rodriguez. Swahili, Ugandan, Korean, Chinese, Russian, dictionary. Although she fits in with the Hispanic Spanish, Vietnamese, and Turkish.â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x153;I draw. Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve taught them to listen and community, Rodriguez explains that Ngussa Rodriguez keeps an open mind when be patient. Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s how any child learns the teaching students. has very few Black language,â&#x20AC;? said â&#x20AC;&#x153;I have a very open mind. Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m ready friends. Rodriguez. for everything. Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m very knowledgeable â&#x20AC;&#x153;I think the Black â&#x20AC;&#x153;I have a very open mind. Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m Ngussa enjoys of culture and diversity. Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s why Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m community needs to ready for everything. â&#x20AC;? life at Oviedo different. No one else has those credentials,â&#x20AC;? know whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s going on,â&#x20AC;? High School. said Rodriguez. said Rodriguez. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Hereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a Maggie Rodriquez, ESOL Teacher â&#x20AC;&#x153;I have special Rodriquez often uses body language to black student from Africa teachers, and I like help the students understand. and they donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t want to it,â&#x20AC;? said Ngussa. Rodriguez understands that foreign kids have anything to do with While Ngussa enjoys her new friends and her.â&#x20AC;? often have trouble grasping the language, and experiences at Oviedo, she misses her brother Rodriguez serves her students as both a need time to adjust. â&#x20AC;&#x153;It takes 3-5 months to just and old friends back in Tanzania. Ngussa now teacher and a friend. be silent and listen and grasp the information,â&#x20AC;? lives with her father, sister, and mother. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I am their advocate. They go to me for said Rodriguez. Rodriguez explains that the â&#x20AC;&#x153;I came here because I want to stay with everything,â&#x20AC;? said Rodriquez. best way for a child to learn a language is to my dad,â&#x20AC;? said Ngussa. Although Rodriguez herself only fluently take time and absorb he culture. Ngussa learned English in Tanzania at age speaks two languages, she works with kids â&#x20AC;&#x153;Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m working for her to become nine when she was in third grade. However, who speak a variety of tongues. independent in her knowledge of the language, the English she learned differs from the â&#x20AC;&#x153;I have nine different languages here: so she wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t need me,â&#x20AC;? said Rodriguez.

Features

Modern Technology

staff artist

Ryden Butler

staff reporter

Four g adgets all college kids need

Everyone knows the necessities for college â&#x20AC;&#x201C; laptop, cell phone, iPod, toothbrush, but you may not be thinking about some other important gadgets to make your college experience a whole lot easier. 1. iPod Alarm Clock â&#x20AC;&#x201C; After staying up until the wee hours of the morning in college, you will not want to roll out of bed. And who wants to wake up to that annoying buzzing? I know I prefer waking up to some of my recent tunes than buzzing anyday. 2. Webcam â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Many of you are traveling extremely far away to college. This may seem exciting right now, but when you get lonely, it will be nice to see your family without having to hop on a plane. 3. Voice Recorder â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a known fact that college is going to be full of lectures. Whether boring or enthralling, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a good idea to be able to re-listen to it if you take bad notes. Do not use this to get out of taking notes though. What if it breaks? Some lectures are technically the schoolsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; intellectual property, you may want to ask your professor before you record a lecture. 4. Digital Camera â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s always good to have pictures for nostalgia sake, but itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s also great to get pictures of science labs â&#x20AC;&#x201C; makes for great studying later!

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Features

May 15, 2009

The Lion’s Tale

Awards Night OHS honors leaders, athletes, scholars Julia Thorncroft

Community/Scholarship Awards

staff reporter

wards Night took place on Monday, April 27. The ceremony recognized approximately 100 seniors in various categories including sports, fine arts, academics, community service, and many more. The audience applauded for all the recipients, but they cheered the most when Principal Robert Lundquist closed the ceremony announcing senior Martin Trang as the Outstanding Senior Student of the Year.

Linda Lougee Community Service Angela Williford

The Winter Springs/Oviedo Lion’s Club Scholarship Jennifer Caveretta

Rising Rotary Achievers Program Tien Holmes Dianelys Padron

Booster Club’s Male/Female Athlete of the Year Trey Lundquist Danny Wayt

Seminole County South Rotary Tien Holmes Benjamin Duval

Anita Carlson Award Ellyn Spangenberg

Deputy Michael Callin Scholarship Courtney Bates Class “Toots” Nardo Endowment Casey Maresco Colonel J.F. Nardo Endowment Joeriel Castillo

NJROTC Boosters Club/Merit Award Jason Barrios Stephanie Sessions Courtney Bates Christina Correa

Jack Blanton Award Josh Self Paul Mikler/Micky Norton Future Coach Award Tyler Heil Zak Jarzynka Memorial Scholarship Davin Morris Robert Locke Scholarship Kimberly Clark Christopher Pieper Memorial Scholarship Candice Smith

NJROTC Scholarships Joeriel Castillo Dwight Gibiser

Women in Science Jessica Lehrer

AJROTC Scholarship Mark Williams

Lake Mary/Heathrow Art Scholarships Lauren Muller Christine Tat

SCC Academic Scholarships 3.0/Bright Futures Christopher Burns Shannon Woodard Benjamin Goff Myia Owens Melissa Coley Brittany Atkinson Brianna Marton Amanda Foster Josh Self Sara Byram John Prince

Oviedo Women’s Club and Lousie Martin Scholarship Sharon Nieves Sydney Kranz

National Merit Scholar Finalists Kyle Davis

Brooke Fidrick

SCC District Board of Trustees Christian Laming

PTSA Scholarships Nicholas Goodwin Tien Holmes Lauren Muller Trey Lundquist

School Awards

photo/GRAHAM CHRISTENSEN

OUTSTANDING STUDENT. Senior Martin Trang grabbed both Valedictorian and Outstanding Senior Student of the Year on Awards Night in the Gerald Cassanova Auditorium on Monday, April 27.

Exceptional Student Education Bruce Wilson

Social Studies Kyle Davis

Mathematics Nathaniel Enos

Career Education Carina Ablanedo

Fine Arts Christin Price

NJROTC Joeriel Castillo

Foreign Language Lissette Rodriguez

Science Travis Lindsay

English Kayla Juliano

Jefferson Award Amanda Loftus

Physical Education Scott Duncan Amanda Reed

Principal’s Citizenship Award Jennifer Caveretta Outsanding Senior Student of the Year Martin Trang

The Lion’s Tale

May 15, 2009

Features

Cadet kodak moments Leader reminisces over time spent in NJROTC Nirvani Khan

“It [NJROTC] is not like a real military or boot camp where you might get screamed enior Austin Smith looks in the mirror at or people might try to tear you down when and sees a changed person; a changed training you. Rather, the program is designed person with strong goals and strong to build your character and make you feel more confident in everything you do, even the way dreams. Smith became a member of the NJROTC you carry yourself,” Smith said. Respect is one of the main characteristics program during the second semester of his that Col. Nardo and MCPO. Marteney junior year. “I wanted to take a class where I would be implanted in Smith. Smith said, “We were constantly instructed able to gain some leadership experience and on things such as saying “Yes, sir” and “No, I was interested in learning more about the sir,” not mumbling through military,” he said. everything when we talk, Joining the and how to treat our peers NJROTC program “I am just a little nervous about respectfully.” the second semester what might come next in life, but Now a senior, Smith has of his junior year was I am confident I have been well earned the title of Battalion challenging at first Chaplain in the NJROTC because Smith had prepared at OHS.” program. to learn everything Austin Smith , ‘09 He said, “As a Battalion the other cadets had Chaplain, I give the already learned the invocations and benedictions first semester, on top of new, additional material. Nevertheless, Smith at all NJROTC related ceremonies, which are adapted quickly to the program and gained opening and closing blessings.” Smith is currently a student in the sixth much knowledge. “Some of the things I learned included period “Special Teams” class. The cadets in general military history, the Orders to the this class prepare for various NJROTC field Sentry, the naval rates and ranks, and how to meet competitions held throughout the year at properly care for uniforms,” Smith said. “We different schools. “This year, I was on the Athletics team, have to shine our shoes, iron our uniform, tuck our shirts in, and be up to grooming standards. which involves running, push-ups, and sit-ups. We are instructed that it is a privilege to wear During sixth period, I worked on increasing my a uniform. We must wear it correctly as to not stamina,” Smith said. “The athletic competitions disrespect the uniform, the military, and the were based on the effort and performance of the entire athletic team.” [NJROTC] program itself,” Smith said. Smith practiced every Wednesday after However, as a member of the NJROTC program, Smith’s acquired knowledge extended school from about 1:30-3:30 p.m. for the se competitions. He felt that the practices were beyond military boundaries. “During my junior year, we watched a three tough at times, but he also realized that they week video series on finance,” Smith said. “I were very beneficial. “Now that the field meets are over, we think it was one of the best things that we ever [experienced senior cadets] are preparing 1stdid that year because I had just gotten a job. year cadets for next year before we depart,” he From the video series, I learned how to save said. and manage my money. Everything we learn in Col. Nardo profoundly inspired Smith NJROTC is practical.” during his time in NJROTC. Furthermore, Smith built stronger character “Col. Nardo portrays an outstanding from his NJROTC experiences.

staff reporter

photo/ GRAHAM CHRISTENSEN

KEEPING HIS COVER. Senior Austin Smith prepares for the Military Ball, a formal event held for all of Oviedo High School’s NJROTC members.

character and leads through respect, integrity, kindness, clarity, and a genuine concern for people. He is a role model to all who know him and I am truly grateful I was able to spend these two years learning from his example of what a true leader should be,” Smith said. Although Smith has a strong leadership background, NJROTC has allowed him to strengthen those leadership skills. “I’ve always tried to be the best leader I could be. I have a very good leadership background because my father is a pastor. I have been around more leaders than most people my age have. But being in NJROTC has allowed me to continue developing my leadership skills,” Smith said. Smith also developed very close bonds with the other cadets in the program and he has formed unforgettable friendships. He said, “We’re always hanging out together and we eat breakfast and lunch together all the time in the NJROTC room. There’s always someone I can go to if I am having a problem. Col. Nardo treats us like we are a family and he encourages this atmosphere.” There have been a lot of positive memories, experiences, and field trips that Smith would

never forget after he leaves Oviedo High School. “My favorite memory of NJROTC was this year when we took a three-day trip to Paris Island, a marine boot camp. They treated us like recruits. . When they woke us up [in the morning,] we only had a couple of minutes to get ready,” Smith said. “It gave me a good experience to draw from so I know what recruits have to go through.” With all the military education and character development Smith has gotten from this program, Smith is currently pursuing a commission as an Air Force Officer and is attending UCF starting this summer. He said, “I feel the Air Force is [the military branch] that is most compatible with my personality. I have heard great things about the Air Force from officers I know.” All in all, NJROTC has been a life-changing experience for Smith. “I genuinely feel that I am better person because of my experiences at NJROTC. I am just a little nervous about what might come next in life, but am confident I have been well prepared at OHS,” Smith said.

is a dean at OHS and his mother, Janet Williams, is one of the bookkeepers. Williams says, “It’s been quite an experience having a family that works where I go to school. It makes it easier that a lot of people like my mom and dad. If they were hated people, high school may have been different for me.” Since beginning his four-year stay at OHS, Williams has not only flourished in the NJROTC program, but in sports such as water polo, cross country, and track and field as well. He ran cross-country and track all four years and participated in events such as the steeplechase. The steeplechase is where the runners have a foot race run on a cross-country course or over a course having obstacles such as ditches, hurdles, or other things that the runner must clear. “My coach put me in the race because he said I was good at hurtles, and I guess because I’m tall he thought I would be good at the steeplechase,” said Williams.

The latest sport that he tried was Water Polo. Mark was one of only two seniors on the team after the Lions’ senior, Alex Garcia, had to sit out after being diagnosed with mononucleosis. This made it harder for the team to win and Mark had to step up and play his best game even though it was his first year. The odds were against him, but according to his teammates he still did well and played goalie better than expected. Williams explained that one of the most interesting things he had ever experienced was the first time he had ever bought a Speedo bathing suit. “Going into the store, I had no clue on what I was supposed to be looking for in a Speedo. I didn’t know how to determine if the sizes were right, or what the textures were supposed to be like, because apparently there is more than one kind of texture, who knew,” said Williams. Williams will also tell you that one of his greatest high school moments was the day that he accepted T-Rex into his heart. The T-Rex fad began several months ago when a group of high school boys began making and marketing T-shirts with an image of a T-Rex on them. Though all the fun and adventures that he has had in high school are over, there are no worries for Williams. “I always look forward to what could be, heck, maybe one day I will be the President of the United States,” said Williams.

Stetson bound NJROTC member envisions army job

Colin Perry

staff reporter

rom the day he was born, senior Mark Williams searched for success in his life, wherever his field of interest took him. However, one thing remains a constant throughout William’s life; his love for the military, and specifically, the Army. “When I graduate from college, I will join the army and probably be in infantry or a Ranger,” said Williams. On June 2, he will cross the threshold of boyhood, pick up his diploma, pack his bags and leave for Stetson University in Deland, Florida. Williams has been awarded a full ride scholarship from Stetson University for his outstanding work and effort with NJROTC. Currently, he is an Ensign in NJROTC. If Williams was in the Navy or Coast Guard, he would be the lowest commissioned officer, ranking next below a lieutenant, junior grade, and equal to a second lieutenant in the Army.

However, at the high school level, it means he is a Fifth Platoon Commander. If Williams were in the military right now, he would be commanding anywhere from 30 to 50 soldiers. This summer Williams begins college and he is aiming to get his degree in history. He will delay his entry into the army so that when he leaves the military, he will be able to get a good job without the struggle of having to go to college. Williams chose to join NJROTC when he was in the eighth grade picking out his schedule for high school. Williams says that he didn’t know what he wanted for his last elective and had always been interested in the military so he decided to join NJROTC. Williams says that his parents influenced his decision a great deal. His father, Robert Williams,

photo/GRAHAM CHRISTENSEN

PUSHING THROUGH.

Senior Mark Williams plans to join the army after he gets a degree in college. Williams has been awarded a scholarship from Stetson University.

Features

May 15, 2009

The Lion’s Tale

Tip of

Where are you plannin going to college and why

I plan on attending UF, because the great business program.

What is your favorite an dinosaur and why?

Seriously? Do you have to ask? The even says “/dinosaur.” Do not fish for from me.

What is the worst clas ever took and why was bad?

Physics C because I had no reason t and all it has done is made me misera

Do you have any weird or talents?

I like to wake up extremely late and to take a shower, change, grab a lu make it to the doorway of 1st period a sounds.

University of Florida because it’s GREAT to BE a Florida Gator!

What was your favorite high school class and why?

Mr. Safi’s class, I mean Mr. Sassy’s class, because in addition to challenging my mathematical mind, we enjoy hilarious daily lessons on “courting,” belly dancing, and the Persian alphabet.

What clubs were you in in high school?

I played on the volleyball team for three years and the tennis team this year. I’m also in nearly every club created at this school.

Who is your character?

favorite

movie

King Julien, the lemur from the Madagascar movies, is absolutely hilarious.

The Univ Gators!

Miranda Ghali

co-editor-in-chief he Lion’s Tale has always dedicated the centerspread of the Graduation Edition to the Top Ten students of the senior class. These students have excelled in academics and have earned their spot as the Top Ten of Oviedo High School. Their rankings are determined by their weighted GPA’s at the end of the first semester, and this year, there is a tie for eighth place. Pictured above are all of the Top Ten seniors. Clockwise from the top left corner are Nate Enos, Alex Mack, John Clore, Daniel Leonard, Brooke Fidrick, Jenny Cavareta, Brittany Hamstra, Samantha Owens, Kyle Davis, and Martin Trang.

What you in and w favorit

Where are you planning on going to college and why?

What book?

AP Chemistry in my sophomore year because of the challenging aspect of the course, the great friends I made in the junior and senior classes, and of course because of the amazing Savage Beast!

If you had any three wishes, what would you wish for?

1. Telekinesis 2. A flying car 3. A $700 billion government bailout

What clubs were you in in high school?

I was in the band and bowling team for four years. I loved being in band most because playing music is so much fun, especially when I’m with such a great group of people.

If yo anythi school be and

I would ta have enou

What i grade what w

I got a ze Mr. Jesse the assign

Twilight I promis intellectua

UCF for my opportunities with the Burnett Honors College and College of Engineering as well as the band and bowling teams.

What was your favorite high school class and why?

I’m in a lo Theta c favorite. Y

GPA: 4.479

Brooke Fidrick

Where are you planning on going to college and why?

Brittany Hamstra

GPA: 4.478

Where planni colleg

Daniel Leonard

10 all photos/GRAHAM CHRISTENSEN

John Clore

GPA: 4.

Whe and

Unive It’s ha outsta

Who

Proba mento

Wha

My fa The O

Wha

In a s femal mindl

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1 4 The Lion’s Tale

May 15, 2009

f the hat to Top Ten

ey have a

ss you s it so

to take it able.

r cool

d attempt unch and as the bell

Alex Mack

question r answers

.556

Where are you planning on going to college and why?

UCF. I think there’s great opportunity in my major (molecular biology & microbiology), and UCF offered a decent merit scholarship.

What are you looking forward to in college?

Different atmosphere, different expectations. Some days some classes don’t make best use of time. When you get an average of 2-4 hours of sleep during the weekdays, a wasted period just adds to stress.

What do you want to do for a career? Practice medicine.

I can’t select a single book. I really enjoyed reading The Count of Monte Cristo, French Lieutenant’s Woman, Catch 22, The Great Gatsby, and Brave New World.

ot of clubs. But Mu Alpha competitions were my Yep, I’m a nerd.

ou could do ing over in high l what would it d why?

ake more pictures; I don’t ugh.

is the worst test you ever got and was it on?

ero on a reading quiz in e’s class. And I even read ned pages.

is your favorite

or Harry Potter, but se I’ve actually read al books too!

GPA: 4.510

Samantha Owens

clubs were n in high school which was your te?

If you could do anything over in high school, what would it be and why?

Try out/make the football team. My dream of becoming the next Denver Broncos quarterback would have been exponentially easier if I had any playing experience.

What’s show?

your

favorite

t.v.

“Scrubs.” JD is my hero. He has the coolest daydreams ever.

What advice would you give to underclassmen?

DO NOT TAKE 6+ APs!

GPA: 4.571

Where are you planning on going to college and why?

University of Alabama. They offered me a big wad of cash, and they have broad foreign language and international exchange programs.

What was your favorite high school class?

I’ve had several that I’ve immensely enjoyed, but AP Art History stands out. It gave a face to thousands of years of human history and made me appreciate art in general.

What are you planning on studying in college and why?

ere are you planning on going to college d why?

ersity of Florida, most because of the strong Classics program. as an amazing sense of community, great athletic teams, and anding academic programs.

o is your biggest role model and why?

ably my Latin teacher, Mr. Robie. He’s a great friend and or, and has given me invaluable advice over the years.

at is your favorite book?

avorite “fun reading” is Twilight. However, I like The Illiad, Odyssey, and The Aeneid a lot.

at is the worst book you ever read?

sense, Twilight as well. It doesn’t really have a driving, strong le character. It’s also very unrealistic and sappy. It is good less reading.

Honestly, I haven’t the slightest idea. Whatever it is, I want an international twist to it.

What’s the lowest grade you have on your transcript?

GPA: 4.511

I have only one B on my transcript in the first semester of Algebra 1 Honors, although I’ve had several close calls.

Where are you planning on going to college and why?

The University of Florida because I bleed Orange and Blue.

GPA: 4.500

What are you planning on studying in college and why? Engineering because I’m a nerd.

If you had any three wishes, what would you wish for?

1. World peace 2. End to world hunger 3. If only life had background music...

Who is your favorite teacher ever and why is he/she your favorite?

Mr. Safi because he focuses on explaining concepts and building on them, rather than relying on memorization to teach.

GPA: 4.489

Jennifer Cavaretta

versity of Florida. Go

Calculus BC, it’s calculus! The only math class so far that has constantly challenged me and made me question my math skills.

5 6

What’s your favorite book?

e are you ing on going to ge and why?

What was your favorite high school class?

Martin Trang

nimal/

Best GPA’s of 2009

UCF, they have a good computer science program.

Kyle Davis

GPA: 4.565

Where are you planning on going to college and why?

Nathaniel Enos

ng on y?

Features

Where are you planning on going to college and why?

UCF Honors College. It has a good school for engineering.

What advice would you give underclassmen in high school to help them get rest of it?

Quit complaining. It’s not going to end any time soon.

What clubs were you in in high school and which was your favorite?

Rock climbing, guitar, and InvenTeam. My favorite is rock climbing.

Do you have any weird or cool talents?

I can spin a book on my finger. I taught myself.

What are you looking forward to in college and why?

Living on my own, for the freedom.

18 Features

March 15, 2009

The Lion’s Tale One by One Tiffany Ray

Musician attempts big Born dead, phobia dream, aims to inspire of licking popsicles

enior Alyx Reimer’s hands shake as she sings into the microphone for her senior solo in the chorus spring concert. But, despite her nervousness, Reimer smiles throughout her song. Nothing will get in the way of her dream: to become a singer and songwriter. “I’m going to meet my mentor and start recordings on a Mac before college. Then go to open Mic Nights and go from there. I’ll be a solo artist. It’s pretty much just me right now. I learned to play guitar for my senior project so that I could turn my dream into reality,” said Reimer. Reimer hopes to get her name out into the music community. “There’s a label I want to get signed to. Basically I’m hoping to get my name out there so that people know who I am and I can be discovered for what I’m doing. I’ve done tons of research, gotten advice, and I’m supported by my friends and family,” said Reimer. “I’m going to start my own music Myspace and I have a friend who’s going to help me out. Most bands have a street t e a m that get their name out. I’m basically my own street team.” R e i m e r doesn’t consider her music to be a certain genre. “I don’t have a specific genre, but my I’m mostly pop/rock. I don’t really like to classify,” said Reimer.

Reimer’s dream began as a small child. “I was in kindergarten and I was watching PBS when this lady came on and sang SO well. I said I wanted to be like her some day. It’s blossomed from there,” said Reimer. I wanted to be like my heroes, the singers I’ve looked up to. I wanted to reach out to kids who lean on music when they have nothing else. It’s such a strong dream that I won‘t stop until I reach it.” Reimer is in the process of writing a couple of songs and choosing her name as an artist. “I have the melody, but not the exact cords yet. I’m going to get help from my guitar teacher. I’m stuck between two names: Keeper and Lovely Wilder. I had the idea of how people say ‘You are your brother’s keeper…and we are yours.’ ‘Love wilder’ was a message at my church. It meant to reach out to people you usually wouldn’t,” said Reimer.

photo/COURTESY OF ALYX REIMER

DON’T STOP BELIEVIN’. Senior Alyx

Jelly

by Miranda Harmon

Reimer dreams of becoming a singer and songwriter. She currently is in the process of writing two songs.

The most important aspect of singing to Reimer is the emotion behind the songs. “I like having the correct amount of emotion. It’s the essential part. The best part is when I’m able to translate the emotion in a song. Getting the right tones is the hardest part,” said Reimer. Singing is more than a hobby or career, it’s an art to Reimer. “Writing a song is basically a blank canvas, and it takes a lot to find how you want a song to flow. I’ll just come up with a lyric, or something that just sounds like a song. From there I’ll get the melody and tempo. Songs help you get your voice out,” said Reimer. This summer Reimer plans to devote herself to her music, but is attending college in the fall. “I’m going to major in music and media performance. I’ll be minoring in business so that I have a fallback. This summer I’ll be pumping out as many songs as I can,” said Reimer. Unlike the stereotypical musician, Reimer isn’t trying to get into the music business for the fame. Reimer said, “I basically am doing this because I love music. Every musician wants some level of achievement. It would mean more to me to have my own special fan base. Not that I don’t want to be big on the radio, but it would mean more to mean something to kids, and to inspire. It’s my dream.”

Editor’s Note: One by one appears in every edition of The Lion’s Tale, and features a randomly selected senior. This edition, a staff reporter interviewed the first person to walk into Prom wearing blue.

• Tara Ingalsbe wouldn’t mind spending the rest of her life in flip-flops, Bermuda shorts, and a t-shirt at the beach. • Casey Maresco would rather walk around the barefoot rather than wear tennis shoes. • Elisa Concepcion was born dead. • Kristen Lee has a phobia of people licking popsicle sticks. • Brittany Hamstra has to have the volume on an even number when listening to music. • Tien Holmes was born with 11 fingers. • Lynn Telzer has three websites: dazzledbyedward.com, roswellfan.com and so lynn.com • Christopher Sullivan was born and raised in Buffalo, New York and then moved to Florida. • Amber Zimmerman was born in England. • Chelsea Wunduke is a nerd when it comes to Star Trek, Star Wars, or Lord of the Rings. • Carina Ablanedo fences. • Heather Jaeger has a goat and two pigs. • Kristine Lim is afraid of large birds. • Kathryn Hisle has 10 horses. • Lauren Case was born in a cornfield in Indiana. • Seven seniors with the last name Smith will be graduating. Information compiled by Stacey Sterling from seniors of OHS.

The Lion’s Tale

Diversions

May 15, 2009

Cruising for a Bruising

Guide to fending off pirates during your summer

Kevin Veloso

staff reporter ensure passengers’ safety.

read locks, patches for eyes, malodorous ragged clothing, and, of course, a special lingo. Most people are familiar with some sort of pirate whether he be Jack Sparrow, short term Captain of the Black Pearl, or the infamous Captain Hook, who tries wholeheartedly to stay out of a giant ticking crocodile’s way. Unfortunately, piracy is on the rise and it is nothing like it used to be. Freshman Steve Tillis plans to take a cruise to the Virgin Islands this summer. “I’m not afraid of the pirate attacks, because I don’t think that one will occur while I am cruising,” said Tillis. According to RAND, a general research group, pirate attacks have increase an average of 75 percent. But if pirates did show up, Tillis thinks he could fend them off with enough warning. “My plan of attack is to try to trap them in the engine room using the shuffle board sticks,” said Tillis. “It would be more effective if I had Chuck Norris, a trained elephant, or Jackie Chan.” Normally, the pirates of today aim for cargo ships and unprotected vessels. The coast of Somalia is a hot bed for pirates. However, Nigeria, Indonesia, Bangladesh, and Brazil are all locations of major piracy as well. Summer, the longest uninterrupted break from school, remains the largest cruising season of the year. Senior Aaron Dobo will be cruising in the Caribbean this summer as well. “I’m scared. Who wouldn’t be?” said Dobo. In light of recent Somalia pirate attacks, cruise ships are taking extra precautions to

After boarding a cruise ship, the liner requires all passengers on board to attend a safety brief. Departing on a cruise can still be safe and fun at the same time. The key is to be prepared and to have a Pirate Plan ready, to ensure survival in the event of a pirate attack. “I’d rip off my shirt, growl, and beat them to hell,” said Dobo. Although most cruise liners wouldn’t recommend that passengers try to fend off pirates single-handedly, Dobo would recruite Batman, Wolverine, and Mario to defend the cruise liner if he could. Somalia pirates go after the large cargo ships, but they don’t target the cargo. Pirates want the ransom. According to BBC News, as soon as pirates set foot on a ship they know pay day is only a matter of time. So summer cruise passengers, beware and be informed. Pirates are out there.

Pirate Tngamlkan’s noose

: The ha r e lt a H n e p Hem ion of s s e r p x e n bers: a im t e m r Shive belief is d r o k c o sh among t a e r h t h a deat : t o p mark S r o k t c o p s Bla k of a blac e d cific a e p m s s e e r o m pirat aper with p f o p a r e other c h t n o on a s n e t es writ im t e m o s il a det side der used d la e p o r e dder: th a L ’s b o c a J he ship t d r a o b a to climb d for r o w h is n a the Sp m o r verse f f : o n o o m r o f Picar pplied to a a s a w it l, tirical or a s rasca s a w s that e t a ir p t u abo humorous

Somalia Piracy More than 100 attacks in 2008 40 successful hijackiings 14 ships currently held About 200 crew held hostage

illustrations/MICHAEL MANGOS

Test your fictional and real life pirate knowledge

What is the name of the 17th century English, Dutch, and French pirates who operated in the West Indies? A. Privateers B. Buccaneers C. Corsairs D. Kippers

In Pirates of the Carribbean, who was the captain of the Revenge, and a longtime lover of the female pirate Anne Bonny? A. Edward Teach B. Jack “Calico” Rackham C. Francis Drake D. Bartholomew Roberts

What is the nickname of the European and American pirate flags-a white skull and cross bones on a black background? A. The Bones Flag B. The Pirates Flag C. The Jolly Roger D. The Jones Skeleton

Which real-life pirate, at one point in his life, was in control of over 300 crew members and four pirate ships? A. Francis Drake B. Bartholomew Roberts C. Edward “Blackbeard” Teach D. Henry Morgan

Which novel follows the adventures of a young boy racing pirates to buried treasure? A. Pirates of the Caribbean B. Somalia Pirates Attack Again C. The Pirates of Penance D. Treasure Island

Which real-life pirate brothers escaped slavery in the 1500’s and were released to the Egyptian forces? A. The Morgan Brothers B. The Teach Brothers C. The Bonny Brothers D. The Barbossa Brothers Which real life pirate’s father owned a plantation and was rich? A. Anne Bonny B. Mary Reed C. Captain Barbossa D. Elizabeth Swan

answers: 1.B 2.B 3.C 4.D 5.B 6.C 7.D 8.A

How did Captain Hook from the childhood books and movies loose his hand? A. In a shipwreck B. Bit off by a crocodile C. Caught in a sail D. Lost it in a sword fight

Diversions May 15, 2009

The Lion’s Tale

COMING SOON

Get ready for a summer chock full of action-packed movies with some comedy and romance along the way. Harry Potter teams up with Dumbledore to tear down Voldemort’s defenses. The Decepticons revive their fearless leader, Megatron,who plots his revenge against the Autobots. The military unit, G.I. Joe, takes on an evil organization led compiled by Stacey Sterling and Emily Cottrell by a notorious arms dealer.

Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen

G.I. Joe: The Rise of the Cobra August 7, 2009

June 24, 2009

Director Stephen Sommers (The Mummy) adapts the beloved Hasbro G.I. Joe toy line in this summer flick. A military unit comprised of special operatives known as G.I. Joe, operating out of The Pit, takes on an evil organization known as the Cobra led by a notorious arms dealer.

For another round, Shia LaBeouf returns to the big screen with Megan Fox and the Autobots. Starscream returns to Cybertron and takes command of the Decpticons, and Megatron’s dead body is stolen from the US military by Skorpinox who revives Megatron with his own spark. The fallen return for revenge, but the Autobots have more than what meets the eye. photo/WWW.TRANSFORMERSMOVIE.COM

Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince July 17, 2009

As Voldemort tightens his group on both the Muggle and wizarding worlds, Hogwarts is no longer the safe haven it once was. Daniel Radcliffe reprises his role as Harry Potter, who works with Dumbledore to find the key to unlock Voldemort’s defenses. Love may be in the air, but tragedy at Hogwarts is fast-approaching.

photo/WWW.HARRYPOTTER.WARNERBROS.COM

photo/WWW.GIJOE.COM

Night at the Museum: Battle of the Smithsonian

Terminator Salvation

May 22, 2009

In the post-apocalyptic world of 2018, John Connor (Christian Bale) must lead the resistance against Skynet and its army of Terminators. Connor treks into the heart of Skynet’s operations, where he uncovers the terrible secret behind the possible annihilation of mankind.

Public Enemies July 1, 2009

This summer’s action-thriller is packed with more than action as Johnny Depp, Christian Bale, and Marion Cotillard team up. FBI agent Melvin Purvis (Bale) focuses his attention on the legendary bank robber John Dillinger (Depp). Guaranteed to be filled with wild chases, shootouts, and epic betrayals, Public Enemies follows the true story of crime in the depression era.

The Proposal

June 19, 2009

Sandra Bullock and Ryan Reynolds pair up in this romantic comedy about one unfortunate male who ends up in the w r o n g place at the wrong time when Maragret Tate (Bullock) discovers it is either marriage or deportation to Canada. On a venture to Alaska to elope, will true love be found, or is it all just a bribe?

photo/WWW.APPLE.COM/TRAILERS/TOUCHSTONE/

Ben Stiller brings the Smithsonian to life in Night at the Museum: Battle of the Smithsonian. Returning characters like Owen Wilson, Robin Williams, and Steve Coogan are joined by Eugene Levy and Thomas Lenon. When Jedediah (Wilson) and Octavius (Coogan) are shipped to the wrong museum by accident Larry Daley (Stiller) sets out on a mission to recover his two friends from the Smithsonian.

May 29, 2009

Carl Fredrickson (Edward Ashner) takes a journey after 78 years of living to visit the wilds of South America, but discovers that a stowaway Boy Scout will either make or break his journey. From the makers of WALL-e, the animation Up is all about making dreams happen. photo/WWW.DISNEY.GO.COM/DISNEYPICTURES/UP

May 21, 2009

The Lion’s Tale

May 15, 2009

Great Beach Reads Everyone knows summer is a great time to go to the beach and sit back with an engaging book. This summer should be devoted to reading modernized classics. Enjoy novels from Margaret Mitchells’ Gone With The Wind to Meg Cabot’s Queen of Babble. Every book is unique but the best books are the ones that mimic the classics. Read these books where ever you are, whether it be train, plane, or car- pay tribute to these accomplished authors. As you lay back listening to the ocean waves, experience a sense of nostalgia when flipping through the pages of these adapted novels. compiled by co-diversions editor Carly Brower

Classics

Modern

PERFECT CHEMISTRY

Jane Austen’s legacy survives with this classic love story between the eccentric Elizabeth Bennet and the proud, uptight Mr. Darcy. The two have to struggle with the differences in status in Englands class system in the 1800s and the mortifying Bennet family. Elizabeth’s older more composed and shy sister, Jane, falls for Mr. Darcy close friend, Mr. Bingley. but soon realizes that love is not always a happily ever after.

rating:

www.teachwithmovies.org

PRIDE AND PREJUDICE

LITTLE WOMEN

ADVENTURES OF TOM SAWYER

One of Mark Twain’s most revered novels, The Adventures of Tom Sawyer is a great read for those who want adventure and to experience a new culture. Twain captures the southern atmosphere flawlessly through the protagonist, Tom Sawyer, who has a wild imagination that creates some mischief in his hometown but progresses to learn the responsibilities needed to become the leader his school friends imagine him to be. isubookstorecatalog.com

THE GREAT GATSBY

F. Scott Fitzgerald prodigy, The Great Gatsby is a excellent representation of the decline of the American dream in the 1920s. Nick Goodwin moves to New York only to discover that his wealthy neighbor, Jay Gatsby, has a indelible love for his cousin, Daisy. Gatsby hosts extravagent parties every Saturday night in hopes of impressing her. Eventually Gatsby learns that www.filmreference.com love can cause a person to do unimaginable things.

rating:

JUST LISTEN

THE HUNGER GAMES

Suzzane Collines has created an excellent adventure novel. North America has become a dictatorship divided into 12 Districts. Each year everyone prays they won’t get chosen to participate in the Hunger Games, a reality TV show in which 24 people are recruited to participate. The winner gets an easy life and the losers get death. The heroine Katniss Everdeen is chosen to participate and has to deal with being hunted by other recruits on live TV. This novel lets the reader experience a whole new lifestyle and is images1.fanpop.com packed with adventure. rating:

ATONEMENT

Ian McEwan’s acclaimed novel, Atonement, is set in the summer of 1953. The intricate plot follows thirteen year old Briony Tallis, her older sister Cecilia, and Robbie Turner. Briony mistakenly accuses Robbie of sexually assaulting her older sister and learns the serious repercussions. Years later, Briony understands her misinformation and decides to write a letter of atonement to Robbie. As the novel progresses Briony begins to learn the justice of making the past right. rating: www.fantasticfiction.co.uk

Upcoming Summer Releases Along For a Ride

authorscoop.com

youchoice.files.wordpress.com

morningnoonandnight.files.wordpress.com

rating:

Sarah Dessen’s acclaimed novel, Just Listen, mirrors the family values portayed in Little Women. Annabel Greene had the perfect life. She was a model and popular. That is, until she went to a party and left a different person. Through her own personal struggles she has to deal with her sisters eating disorder and her mother’s inability to let her quit modeling. Annabel seems to have no control over her life until she meets Owen, a loner who never lies and has a strong passion for music. Owen teaches Annabel that sometimes you just have to stop and listen to your inner voice. rating:

Little Women is the beloved story of the strength of a family. Mary May Alcott’s novel follows the March family consisting of four close sisters- Meg, Jo, Beth, and Amy- who face everyday challenges as they deal with their father going off to war and having little money. Through the novel the sisters learn to be thankful for their blessings and learn the importance of family.

rating:

Simon Elkeles’ novel follows the theme of opposites attract. The modern plot follows high schoolers Brittany Ellis and Alex Fuentes. While Brittany is the girl that everyone wants to be, Alex is the gang member who wants to get out, but can’t. As with Elizabeth and Mr. Darcy, the two’s feelings for each other are more of dislike then attraction. As they start to realize thier feelings for eachother they discover that they have to break through the stereotypes and expectations of their family to be together.

Amigoland

By: Oscar Casares Release date: August 10, 2009 Description: Set in Mexico, two estranged brothers, Don Fidencio and Don Celestino, must face the facts and realize that they have been fighting an endless argument. After coming to the conclusion that they are both old and don’t have much time left to make amends the two resolve to travel to Mexico to solve their dispute involving solving the mystery of their grandfather’s kidnapping.

By: Sarah Dessen Release date: June 16, 2009 Description: Teenager Auden has had a tough life. Her parents are divorced, she is a insomniac, and she missed out on being a normal teenage girl. When her dad invites her to spend the summer with him and his new family at the beach she jumps at the chance. While there, she gets to experience all the things she missed out on and she also meets Eli, By: Cecily von Ziegesar a loner and fellow insomniac, who has his own Release date: June 1, 2009 troubles that need to be resolved. Description: It’s Christmas time at Waverely Academy and everyone is in the giving mood. Brett is planning the holiday ball and gift exchange This summer numerous books will be making but everyone seems more interested their debut. To see a wider selection, go to in playing Secret Satan then Secret Santa. Tinsley Carmichael is finally www.borders.com to view a detailed list of stable with her long-awaited crush books hitting the stores this summer. Julian but discovers that he is hiding a secret from his past.

Adored (IT girl)

Diversions 21

Tube Talk

Miranda Ghali

co-editor-in-chief

Summer slew of shows ith summer quickly approaching, a slew of season finales follow. This usually means that there will be nothing left to watch on TV, but there will actually be some great summer shows this season that I’m excited about. “So You Think You Can Dance” If you’ve followed my column throughout the year, you’ve probably noticed that I don’t really care for reality television, but I make an exception at “So You Think You Can Dance”. “SYTYCD” is definitely my favorite reality indulgence on TV. The show is basically a dancing version of “American Idol”, only better. The judges on this show actually know what they are talking about and give great advice. The judges are from all genres of dancing and actually have experience from multiple genres. The contestants on the show are even better. Every different style of dance is represented through the Top 10 contestants and they all have to dance in multiple different genres of dance that they aren’t comfortable with, but most pull it off gracefully. If you enjoy watching dance at all or are a dancer yourself, this is a great summer show to follow. “SYTYCD” starts May 21 at 8 p.m. on Fox. “Monk” Monk (Tony Shalhoub), the OCD detective, will soon be leaving television forever. The last season of the show will premiere this summer and it definitely should not be missed. Mr. Monk is a zany OCD detective that is so OCD he needs an assistant to help with all of his germophobic needs. He and his assistant work with the San Francisco Police Department to catch all sorts of bad guys. This show is one of the few detective shows on television that gives viewers enough clues to actually follow the episode and figure out who the criminal is. Even if you haven’t followed the entire series of the show, this season will still be worth watching. “Monk” starts during the summer on USA. The date has yet to be announced. “Mental” This TV show is a new one I am definitely looking forward to. Fox’s dramas never disappoint and “Mental” doesn’t look like it will. Dr. Jack Gallagher (Chris Vance) is the Director of Mental Health Services in a hospital in Los Angeles. He seems to resemble Dr. House in his unorthodox ways, which makes the show that much more appealing. Gallagher takes on the hardest mental cases of patients that have previously been hard to diagnose (really, this screams House to me) and tries to find the underlying problems in their mental health. After spending a year in my AP Psychology class, I can’t wait to see a medical type show in which I might actually understand some terms. I am so excited to see Fox’s new character and I really hope that this show lives up to expectations. “Mental” premieres May 26 at 9 p.m. on Fox.

22 Diversions

May 15, 2009

Mean everything to nothing

Outer South

Coasters NOFX Punk/Rock

Caitlyn Braswell

The Lion’s Tale

staff reporter

Ciara R&B/Hip Hop

Caitlyn Braswell

Tien Holmes

staff reporter

he taught us how to “1,2 step” and told us about her “Goodies”. Now Ciara is back, taking us on a fun filled, sexy Fantasy Ride. This 15-track cd features hit singles such as “Never Ever” featuring Young Jeezy and “Love Sex Magic” featuring Justin Timberlake. This is the Atlanta native’s junior album. The album also features The Dream, Chris Brown, and Missy Elliot. Elliot and Ciara collaborate for a hit titled “Work”, which is a head banger just like Elliot and Ciara’s previous collaboration on the hit “Lose Control.” Fantasy Ride combines slow and sexy with the hard hitting beats from the A (Atlanta). Ciara has yet to disappoint fans and the queen of hip-hop in Atlanta is back with another billboard topper that has fans saying “Oh.”

staff reporter

right eyes frontman Conor Oberst’s new project Outer South, written by his side-project band Conor Oberst And The Mystic Valley Band is, unfortunately, quite a letdown from their usual unique songs. As great as all of Oberst’s seven other projects are, including his solo work, Outer South should have become another lyrically genius album. Instead it fell into an all-around disappointment. Each song does vary in tone and subject like the bluegrass, bluesy song “Slowly (Oh So Slowly)” and the more uplifting and catchy sounds of “Air Mattress.’ However, the issue with the album is the apparent lack of a muse for Oberst’s once-moving lyrics. This album’s lyrics are about as deep as a puddle, where they were once so moving. In concert, he would have the fans tearing up at his gut-wrenchingly true poems. If all you are interested in is a collection of different Indie sounds on one album, Outer South is a fair choice. But if you are an Oberst follower for his poetic lyrics, skip listening to the hour long fluff and listen to his latest self titled solo album instead.

staff reporter

ndie rockers Manchester Orchestra have created a second album that is anything but sophomore slump. The band has morphed the sounds of a county carnival with pleasantly memorable tunes on Mean Everything To Nothing. The first track ‘The Only One” begins sounding like a carnival ride starting up then goes into a catchy, melodic guitar riff and continues with the steady voice of singer Andy Hull. While the band has stuck to their mellow roots in a few of their songs, many of the tracks have tapped into the more lively side of Manchester Orchestra like their single “Shake It Out” where Hull goes as far as to yell parts of the quick and refreshingly loud chorus- a large leap from his comfort zone. While the band has evolved in their sound, they have successfully kept the Manchester Orchestra roots.

photo/MANCHESTERORCHESTA.COM

olitical punk rockers NOFX have raised the bar for punk rock yet again on their 11th studio album Coasters. The band has proved that they don’t need a president’s mistakes to keep punk alive. As they always do, they have found another album’s worth of issues to sing about and have done it as lyrically witty and aesthetically pleasing as ever. Songs like “Creeping Out Sara” which tells a comical tale of singer Fat Mike’s experience meeting Sara of the band Tegan and Sara while still keeping an interesting chord progression throughout the song. The album even holds a surprising rare sincerity in the song “My Orphan Years” where Fat Mike sings of his parents’ death and growing up amidst a divorce while still holding onto the classically messy punk sounds of NOFX. In the end, this 26 year old band with this new hit album has yet to get tiresome and continues to amaze fans through thier inspirational music.

Conor Oberst And The Mystic Valley Band Alternative Caitlyn Braswell

Manchester Orchestra Alternative

fantasy ride

photo/BRIGTHEYES.COM

Top 5 Music Festivals for

Summer Shows

Manchester Orchestra

With a long summer break just around the corner, it’s time to plan for the best music Wednesday, June 3 in the US. Go gather up the money, hop into the car and drive off to the top five 7:00 p.m. music festivals of 2009.

American Idol Tour

The Social

Where: Tampa, Fl When: July 28 Who: The top 10 finalists from the 2009 season Price: TBA

Saturday, June 13 7:30 p.m. House of Blues Orlando

Lollapalooza

Warped Tour

the offspring

Where: Chicago, IL When: August 7-9 Who: The Killers, Rise Against, Portugal The Man, Beastie Boys Price: $190 for advanced 2-day pass

Where: Orlando, Fl When: July 24 Who: 3OH!3, Anti-Flag, Less Than Jake, The Devil Wears Prada Price: $30

O .C

G LA

TI_

N /A

Where: Manchester, TN When: June 12-15 Who: MGMT, The Decemberists, Coheed and Cambria Price: $225

photo/KINGSOFLEON.COM

Thursday, July 16 8:00 p.m. Hard Rock Live Demi

Bonnaroo

better than ezra

Sasquach! Music Festival

Where: Quincy, WA When: May 23-25 Who: Kings Of Leon, Animal Collective, The Dodos Price: $66.50 for Presale

Green day

lovato

Sunday, August 2 7:00 p.m. Amway Arena

Wednesday, August 5 8:00 p.m. Amway Arena

jeffree star Tuesday, July 28 5:00 p.m. The Social

photo/JEFFREESTAR.BUZZNET.COM

The Lion’s Tale

BOX OFFICE BOMBS David Parsons

staff reporter

Wax figure goes international

May 15, 2009

1870s. The Civil War ended in 1865. In case you were wondering, this means that every single one of these clues was placed literally a decade after characters started following them. And we’re just getting started. This clue leads them to...England? Seriously, where’s America in this? Am I going to have to stage another Boston Tea Party on Jon Turteltaub’s front lawn just to get our country in a movie entitled ‘National Treasure’? But let’s get back to Nick. He breaks into the Queen’s desk, only to discover that the desk is really a Chinese puzzle box. Really? A Chinese…you know, I have a question. Who’s hiding these clues?!?! I don’t seem to remember the Mayans living in France and Britain or carving the statues of liberty. Where’d they learn to make Chinese puzzle boxes, anyway? They weren’t even ALIVE in any of these time periods!

Diversions 23

figured that it’s time my little crusade against bad movies served more of a purpose for humanity. Sure, I can tell you that movies like Komodo vs. Cobra and Ice Spiders are complete pieces of crap, but let’s face it – most people could tell that just by reading the title. I’m not really saving anyone an unbearable experience by writing a review of Snoop Dogg’s Hood of Horrors because no one other than a masochist like me would bother watching it in the first place. But…there is a movie so horrific, so shockingly inept and insufferable that it single-handedly transformed me from a normal photo/ WWW.NATIONALTREASURE2.COM person into the raving lunatic I am today. You must be warned. THE BANE OF MY EXISTENCE. Perserved here is one of the many wax figures that has been I’m pretty sure that I remember being a normal movie viewer for arbitrarily inserted in Cage’s place over the years whenever he left the set for a coffee break. Directors have most of my life. However, those memories seem to stop around Nick’s presidential fiasco called this new strategy a “breakthrough” that allows for quicker filming at a “scarcely noticable” cost. the time I watched National Treasure 2. For TWO MONTHS Finally, we’re back in America, and afterward, I would complain about it to anyone who would listen, Nick is already breaking into the White House, where security than devote an hour of his time to doing this in person? Who voted and to this day I still go into a frenzy whenever anyone brings it for this man?? is conveniently nonexistent. To make himself unnecessarily up. When my friend suggested that I write something about it in conspicuous, he engages in a shouting match with a seven year old A gold rush of impossibilites her yearbook, the first thing I said was “How much profanity can Nick finds the clue, and sets off to Mt. Rushmore, a cover-up child over Civil War conspiracy theories. Am I use?” for the Mayan city located…beneath it. Ok, it’s time to play the I swabbing my ears with barbed wire, or is Some movies attempt to bore ‘Guess-Who-Didn’t-Pass-6th Grade-Geography Game’. Again, the the writing really this bad? Whoever wrote you to death, to slowly pound your this comic relief is well sort of like a maniac. Mayans lived in Central America. Mount Rushmore is in South emotions into submission until Dakota, practically at the other end of the continent. Why is And for the love of all that is good and scratching your eyes out and pouring this such a difficult concept for the writers to grasp?? At least holy, would someone get Nicholas Cage a large amount of Drano down your they’re getting closer – France, Britain, South Dakota…soon out of my face?! Every time I see a close ears seems a superior alternative. enough we’ll be in San Diego, and within a thousand miles of up of him, I’m reminded instantly of a National Treasure 2 is different: it their real location! wax museum. Every single reaction he attacks your logical side, bombarding And who thought needlessly carving George makes is so contrived, so over the top and your mind with inconsistencies and Washington’s face into the mountainside was a good idea unbelievable, that each scene feels like it’s senseless actions until your brain goes for a cover-up? Thanks to that moron, an extra two million driving a shoot of bamboo under one of into emergency shut-down mode to people annually come within a quarter mile of it. It isn’t even my fingernails. Come on, Nick, this isn’t stop the blood from pouring from “Ripley’s Believe-It-Or-Not”, for god sakes. I covering anything up, the city is UNDERGROUND! your skull. They find the city, and everyone is near tears because shouldn’t have to pretend like I’m amused by I swear to you, this thing is EVIL. they’ve proved their great-greatyour antics in the hopes It is the reason for everything that grandfather’s innocence. Oh shut up, that you’ll give me 12 is wrong with the world. That iPod you haven’t proved a thing except Nicholas Cage Rule #326: free holes of mini-golf you misplaced and can’t seem to at the end. When in doubt, it can’t hurt that your writers probably don’t have photo/WWW.YOURARGUMENTISINVALID.COM find? National Treasure 2 took it. a high school diploma between them. They find that the to throw in a wildly intense Your Xbox just got the red rings of CAGE’S REBUTTAL. Charges have been laid Wilkinson, who’s been tailing them artifact that they’re look (and don’t forget to get from the beginning, explains that he death? NT2 jammed a low-grade EMP against you, Mr. Cage. Your response? looking for has been device in the disc slot when you weren’t the other actors to follow in only forged the document because removed from the looking. It hates everything you love and loves everything you Nick wouldn’t have come along your footsteps). desk and placed in the President’s secret hate. If you love the Beatles, NT2 is an Elvis-man. Unless you’re book. The problem is that only the President otherwise. an Elvis-man. In which case, NT2 hates Elvis. Straight up detests is allowed to see this book. Without Oh for GOD’S SAKE. Did the thought of him. If you like the Lakers, NT2 rooted for the you try…I don’t know…ASKING hesitation, they decide to book every room Celtics in ’85. This movie strangles puppies while moshing to the in every resort to which the President might HIM? He’s only a treasure-hunter, Jonas Brothers World Tour. Simply put, it is the anti-goodness. Wilkinson. He practically froths conceivably wish to elope. Who thought It stars that DEVIL of a man, Nicholas Cage; a man who at the mouth over annoying and this was even REMOTELY feasible? How to this day I revile as my arch-nemesis. A man who God has senseless wastes of time like this. did they even know what places to book? cursed for all time to have only three facial expressions – ‘bored’, Is the President’s vacation itinerary posted Why WOULDN’T he have gone ‘exasperated bored’, and ‘about-to-pull-a-gun-and-start-aalong? Was it really necessary to daily on the Chief of Staff’s Twitter account? bombastically-loud-action-sequence bored’. forge those papers and force us And how did they manage to not ring up Searching for Maya into this inane and completely MILLIONS in debt by doing this? A man named Wilkinson has come forward with a few of the contradictory plotline? They did leave one place – Mt. Vernon missing pages of John Wilkes Booth’s diary, which reveal Thomas – open to booking. The President books a The city eventually collapses, Gates, the great-great-grandfather of the protagonist, to be involved big party there, and Nick shows up to ruin oddly mirroring psyche. I don’t think in the plot to kill Abraham Lincoln. The pages mention a search for everyone’s fun by trapping him beneath its I’ll ever be the same. And so I leave an ancient golden city of the Mayans and a plan to use the resulting foundation. Then he tells him Thomas Gates, you now, Oviedo. My desperate fortune to fund the Confederacy’s continued rebellion. Our friend John Wilkes Booth, and the Mayan city of g attempt to exact justice upon bad Nick reasons that finding the city is the only way to prove that his old. cinema for all its crimes is at an end. relative was not involved. Hopefully, we’ve all gotten a little For some reason, this is an exceedingly From now on, any time that you think you’re about to be wiser. Hopefully, you’ll never see photos/ WWW.NATIONALTREASURE2.COM persuasive argument. The President tells him scammed, any time you start to believe a word that comes out the name Uwe Boll again without where the book is, but also asks Nick to look of this script, just repeat this sentence: Nicholas Cage is going sneering. Hopefully, you’ll never look at the word ‘raptor’ in up additional information in the book for him. to prove his great-great-grandfather’s innocence in the Lincoln the same way. Or, at the very least, maybe you’ll see Sharks in What?!? Why does he even need Nick to do this, it’s HIS assassination by FINDING A LOST MAYAN CITY OF GOLD. BOOK! Is he just so ungodly lazy that he’d rather trust national Venice on your local Blockbuster shelf, smile, and make your Excuse me, but just what the hell does that prove? Why don’t security to the man who just trapped him in a wine cellar rather way to the check-out counter. you just go dig up Jimmy Hoffa while you’re at it? Maybe that’ll exonerate your great-uncle in the Amelia Earhart disappearance! HOW BAD CAN IT BE? Couldn’t you just double check the document’s legitimacy, Nick? Wouldn’t that be the logical thing to do before you go all Hernando moderately angering so bad it’s funny cruel and inhuman punishment de Soto on us? But Nick isn’t listening. The clue written on the French version inherently stupid emotionally scarring so bad it hurts to live of the Statue of Liberty in Paris is dated sometime in the mid-

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24 Diversions

May 15, 2009

The Lion’s Tale

Guide to keeping peace How to thrive in college with new roommate

Brooke Fidrick

crucial step in learning how to deal with whether in regards to personal possessions, Money is one cramped space. Know your habits. Know resource all college students will be scarce what irritates you, how clean you usually on. Therefore, your roommate will spend like to keep things, how much and when you his/her money on items he or she considers valuable. Borrowing or consuming these plan to sleep, etc. Be honest with yourself. If items will certainly anger your roommate, you misrepresent your habits, you won’t feel and make your life more difficult than it happy when you feel obligated to conform to needs to be. these fabricated habits. It’s unreasonable to expect that any Know your roommate college student will be completely friendless, The next-most-crucial step is to get to and you and your roommate both will want know your roommate. You may not become to have friends over to hang out. Remember friends with your roommate, but in order to to be courteous to your roommate’s wants— live together harmoniously, you must respect if he/she is studying, it’s probably not a good each other. Learn your roommate’s time to break out the Halo 3. Also, it’s safe to assume that every pet peeves, habits, hobbies, etc. person on this planet has less-than-desirable If there are disparities in habits or aspects of themselves they do personality, do not be afraid not especially love. Be respectful of your to initiate conversation roommate’s idiosyncrasies and quirks—and about them. Try to strike set an example for your roommate to follow a compromise-it’s in turn. important to ensure If your roommate is completely beyond that you are happy rational, resist the urge to vent, rage, and and comfortable, seethe to your friends. Take a more mature while allowing route, and seek out your floor’s Residential your roommate Advisor (RA), who usually is a student as to be the same. well. Explain your complaints to the RA, Writing down a and try to schedule a time when both you and “contract” listing your RA may sit down with your roommate and resolve your quarrels. your wants, your If this doesn’t work, head to those in roommate’s wants, and charge of residence life at your college, and your compromises can learn of whatever options you may take from prevent later arguments that point on. over what had previously been agreed upon. Throughout your life in the dorm, there are several “rules” you can follow to ensure long-lasting peace. Respect your roommate and living space Remember to clean up after yourself. It’s cliché, but your mother won’t be around to clean up after you. Being a college student comes with great self-responsibility, and a mature yet easy way to be responsible is to clean up messes as you make them. Do not disturb your roommate when he/ she is studying, sleeping, or wants quiet time in general. There are two major necessities in every teenager’s life—food and sleep. Also, despite the partying and good times to be had in college, the essential reason you and your roommate are in college is to receive the optimal education possible. Respect your roommate’s privacy,

staff reporter living with another person in a relatively friends, and/or secrets.

ollege-bound seniors, by the time this paper goes to press, you’re probably getting fairly excited to head to the school of your choice. Chances are, you’ve already selected your ideal dorm—close to your classes, dining halls, athletic stadiums, and the like. However, there’s one potential roadblock to being delighted in your dorm—your roommate. Some colleges may administer personality tests to match incoming housing applicants to suitable applicants. Other colleges may allow students to post personality

profiles so that fellow applicants may peruse them. Certain other colleges randomly assign students, regardless of personality. Even if you plan to room with a friend or will be assigned a roommate in it’s inevitable that at some point you and your roommate will clash. Learning how to deal with roommate conflict could potentially mean the difference between an enjoyable college experience and a miserable one. Know your habits and yourself A wise man once said, “Know thyself”. This bit of advice perhaps may be the most

Top 4 Dorms in U.S. 1. Loyola College

Where: Maryland Accommodations: walk-in closets, spotless campus, gigantic rooms

2. Smith College

Where: Massachusetts Accommodations: everyone lives in houses, country club comfort, a professor serves as the House Fellow, on averge 80% of your friends are in your house

Bryn Mawr College

Where: Pennslyvania Accommodations: incoming students are assigned to custom groups led by sophomores. Every dorm and hall is mixed with all four classes. Students are always surronded with others.

4. Scripps College

Where: California Accommodations: dorms are extremely luxorious with living rooms and fireplaces as well as pianos. Some also have a balcony, walk-in-closet, and two windows. Downside? It’s an all girl school. article/http://encarta.msn.com

illustrations/ MIRANDA HARMON

Sports

The Lion’s Tale

May 15, 2009

The Lion’s Tale

2008-2009 Senior Sports Awards

t only takes one element, one compound to act as a catalyst to change the entire mixture. The Oviedo High School Sports Department changed from iron to iron ore with the help of coaches and players. The Lion’s Tale Newspaper is recognizing some single atoms whose differing atomic numbers have bonded to create masterpieces. The Lion’s Tale sent out ballots to all the coaches. The winners of each award are based on the nominations received from the ballots.

Chemistry propels team to high level Award: Team of the Year Nominees: Girl’s Softball, Girl’s Soccer, Boy’s Baseball, Boy’s Basketball, Girl’s Lacrosse Winner: Girl’s Soccer Connor Bailey

sports editor

ne state final four trip is a remarkable achievement, but back to back seasons is mind blowing, considering the soccer program has never achieved such a milestone. The Lady Lion’s varsity soccer team reached the final four two seasons in a row, defining the program as one of the best in the country. The Lions reached the championship game last year, losing a heart breaker in penalty kicks to Wellington High School. This year the ladies came up short again, losing 3-2 in the state semi final to Melbourne High School, a highly ranked and recognized team in the nation. Over the past two years the Lions have gone 44-4-5, an unbelievable statistic. The best in the school’s history. “I feel very honored to be a part of such a defined soccer program. All of the girls try very hard to keep up the reputation that we have started to make for ourselves,” said sophomore outside midfielder Morgan Campbell. Last year they were not predicted to win the district, let alone make it all the way to the state championship game. “My freshman year we were the underdogs, no one thought we had the ability to win big games. We were a very young team, but they didn’t take in consideration our level of skill and our love of the game,” said sophomore forward Katie O’Kennedy. Hard work and dedication was one of the key elements that all of the players would attribute to their success. “After losing to Wellington we felt that we left some unfinished business to be done. We weren’t able to take care of it this year, but I think that next year we will be the team to beat and finally bring home a state

photo/ COURTSEY OF SCOTT WAISANEN

BACK TO BACK. (Left to right) Front row: Hallie Lavery, Erin Phillips, Colleen O’Kennedy, Morgan Campbell, and Megan Dreessen. Second row: Anya Phillips, Alenis DeJesus, Meagan Borger, Emilyn Banfield, Caitlin Millich, Paige Giesler, and Megan Pando. Third row: Coach Barker, Lindsay Osburn, Jillian Peppiatt, Katie O’Kennedy, April Asby, Kara Mundelien, Megan Hile, and Coach Waisanen. championship,” said sophomore sweeper Meagan Borger. The team started off on fire this year, going undefeated until the Michelle Akers tournament, which they lost 1-0 to Lake Mary during the final stages of the game. The Lions displayed high quality of skill this year, beating competitive teams like, rivals Lake Mary High School, Winter Park High School, and Bishop Moore High School. “Last season we lost a few tight games to Lake Mary, but this season was different. We tied, lost, and beat them twice, one of the wins was during the playoffs which really gave us a lot of momentum moving on into our next games,” said sophomore center midfielder Colleen O’Kennedy.

“We were upset about the loss in the Michelle Aker’s tournament, but we didn’t dwell on it. We knew we were a much better than the way we played and we just tried to improve on the things we made mistakes on during practices,” said junior stopper April Asby. Friendship contributed a lot to the team’s success. “All of my teammates get along quite well. When we step onto the field we put all of our dilemmas and arguments out of our minds and completely focus on the game,” said C. O’Kennedy. “I think that all of us being so close really helps our chemistry and propels us to new levels.” Most of the girls play club ball, keeping them in shape year round.

“I know a lot of my teammates play before and after high school season is over. It helps to keep our soccer skills fresh and also improves us as overall players,” said K. O’Kennedy. “When we come back to high school season it is as if we never stopped, we still have all of our skills and the winning mindset already there.” The team has a lot of pressure to win a state championship next year. “We have had two opportunities to win a state championship, but they always say ‘third times a charm’,” said Asby. “With Melbourne moving down to 5A and us staying in 6A, I feel as if we have a very strong chance of finally receiving the title of state champions.”

Sports

May 15, 2009

The Lion’s Tale

Guerrier says farewell to a great career Award: Male Athlete of the Year Nominees: Taylor Malkus (Boy’s Volleyball), Todd Hankins (Boy’s Baseball), David Dodge (Boy’s Soccer), Jayson Guerrier (Boy’s Basketball), Brock Smith (Boy’s Football). Winner: Jayson Guerrier Maggie Kipi

staff reporter

enior Jayson Guerrier missed the first 10 games of the 2008-2009 season and returned to the basketball court with vengeance and determination. Guerrier suffered from a broken ankle during a preseason game. This athletic guard was disappointed that this tragedy happened during his senior year. However, Guerrier received encouragement from his parents, teammates, and coach. He also worked to recover as soon as possible. “My dad makes me work on my game, and my mom makes me work on my grades,” said Guerrier. Varsity coach Ed Kershner feels Guerrier returned to the court and excelled his first game back. “His first game back he had 19 points and 12 rebounds and the next game he had 30 points and 14 rebounds, he was also able to bounce back quickly because of his leadership and attitude,” said Kershner. Kershner speaks words of encouragement to the team frequently.

“I tell them to do your very best then you never have to look back and wonder if you could of done better,” said Kershner. Oviedo’s basketball team has not only suffered from Guerrier’s injury this season, but senior Josh Self also suffered from an ankle and leg injury as well. “Seeing the team come together and play the way they did and recovering from those injuries to one of the better teams in the area at the end of the season is one of the most memorable moments from this season,” said Kershner. Guerrier has been playing basketball for 10 years now. Guerrier has earned a spot on Varsity for three years. Although not sure where, Guerrier plans to advance his basketball career by playing in college, and if given the opportunity, the NBA (National Basketball Association). “If I made it to the NBA, I would either want to play for the Denver Nuggets, which is my favorite team, or the New York Knicks, which is my brother’s favorite team. My favorite player is Carmelo Anthony, who plays for Denver,” said Guerrier. Like many athletes, Guerrier performs a pre-game ritual before each game. “Before every game I eat at Subway and drink a Flesh or an Incredible Hulk,” said Guerrier. Guerrier reminiscences on his favorite high school memory. “One of the highlights of this year was beating Winter Springs. We haven’t beaten them since I’ve been on Varsity, and they were second in state so it was great beating them,” said Guerrier. “Another great memory was winning the Great FL Shootout my sophomore year at Poinciana.”

photos/CONNOR BAILEY

Captain leads team to second Final Four

Award: Female Athlete of the Year Nominees: Ellyn Spangenberg (Girl’s Lacrosse), Dani Wyat (Girl’s Softball), Brittany Maggio (Girl’s Volleyball), Kara Mundelein (Girl’s Soccer), Julie Leonard (Girl’s Bowling). Winner: Kara Mundelein

Tien Holmes

staff reporter

he started off just trying soccer because someone from church asked her to. She never would have thought that 12 years later, she would be nominated for female athlete of the year, let alone winning the title of The Lion’s Tale Female Athlete of the Year. Senior Kara Mundelein, a starter on the girls’ varsity soccer team is female athlete of the year. “I am really proud and shocked,” said Mundelein. “A lot of my hard work has finally paid off.” Kara got her start when she was six years old. “I knew I wanted to stick with soccer when all my friends wanted to try-out for softball and I stuck with soccer,” said Mundelein. Mundelein has played all four years of her high school career, and participated in the final four each year in the last two years. In 20072008 year, the girls finished runner-up in the finals. “I felt like we played really hard,” said Mundelein. “We didn’t win but we knew we were the best.” During the 2008-2009 year, the girls lost in the first round. “It feels really good to know that we made it to the finals for the second time.” said Mundelein. “But at the same time, it’s frustrating because I know if we would’ve won the first round we would have won the entire thing.” Although Mundelein tries to keep a positive outlook on things, sometimes the pressure gets to her. “I took a girl out during a game,” said Mundelein. “I got a yellow flag. It wasn’t smart but I was frustrated.”

She’s only human; the center midfielder wants to remind people. Mundelein carries an academic load as well as an extra-curricular load. Calculus and Honors Anatomy are just some of the classes Mundelein takes during school. Women’s sports are usually inferior to male sports, but when it comes to the male and female soccer teams, Mundelein feels that the girl’s a better team. “Of course they are stronger and faster, but we have more experience,” said Mundelein. “We are a better team in that we have accomplished more, and have more advanced players.” Over the past 12 years, Mundelein still loves the game. “[I didn’t stop] even when I tore my ACL during my junior year,” said Mundelein. She quickly went to rehab and trained herself to perform better. “I work out not just for soccer,” Mundelein said. “I work out just to stay in shape as well.” Now that high school is over, the female athlete of the year plans to play at Columbus State in Georgia. “I look forward to continuing my soccer career,” said Mundelein. “I’ve come a long way from trying to cherry pick a lot when I was younger,” said Mundelein. Cherry picking in soccer consists of staying in front of the goal and when the ball comes, trying to kick it in at the last moment. Now she heads the ball and distributes to open teammates. Mundelein embodies the overall definition as an athlete of the year. “I try to encourage the team, and bring our spirits up,” said Mundelein. “I try to be the one that makes a difference on and off the field.”

The Lion’s Tale

May 15, 2009

Sports

Chemistry teacher boils to first again Award: Coach of the Year Nominations: Janet Williams (Girl’s Softball), Scott Waisanen (Girl’s Soccer), Ed Kershner(Boy’s Basketball), Chad Long (Girl’s Volleyball), Wes Allen (Boy’s Football). Winner: Scott Waisanen Miranda Harmon

staff reporter

or the second year in a row, Coach and Chemistry teacher Scott Waisanen takes the gold with Coach of the Year. “It’s always an honor, especially among Oviedo High School coaches. All of our sports have tremendous coaches, so it’s an honor to be chosen as the Coach of the Year,” said Waisanen. Waisanen, while also a teacher, coaches the girls’ soccer team from October through February. Soccer has been a part of Waisanen’s life for quite a while. “I’ve played soccer since I was in second grade. I played in college. It’s one of my passions, so I enjoy teaching it.” Teaching chemistry while coaching soccer proves a difficult yet rewarding endeavor for Waisanen. “It’s challenging. There’s a lot of paper grading at night or before games,” said Waisanen. Waisanen has to spend time wisely while juggling soccer games and chemical equations. “You have to maintain discipline in your own time management.”

The balance of academics and sports places sprain on both the coach and the team. “I have homework to do, they have homework to do,” said Waisanen. Despite the extra work involved with being a coach as well as a teacher, Waisanen explains that being a coach is a worthwhile experience. “Watching the girls grow as a team the entire season is why I love to coach,” said Waisanen. This is Waisanen’s second year winning Coach of the Year. “That’s just attributed to our team being really talented,” said Waisanen. “We’ve been fortunate to have a lot of success these past two years.” The girls’ soccer team experienced great success in making the final four at the state championship this year. Waisanen recounts highlights of the season. “Two favorite moments are winning districts four to zero as we played probably our best game of the season that night versus Lake Mary,” said Waisanen. “And second is winning the region finals two to one in a dramatic fashion with 4 seconds left off a throw in from April Asby to Kara Mundelein, which put us in the final four again.” Waisanen explain that next year looks bright for the girls soccer team as well. “We are losing three strong players and they will be missed, but our nucleus of athletes return again next year,” said Waisanen. Waisanen thanks his two assistants for the success of the team. “My two assistants, Coach Barker and Coach Line,” said Waisanen. “Without them, I wouldn’t be able to do this.”

photo/CONNOR BAILEY

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Sports

May 15, 2009

The Lion’s Tale

Lundquist excells with two types of leather Award: Two Sport Athlete of the Year Nominees: Trey Lundquist (Football/ Baseball), Dustin Keyes (Boy’s Swimming/Water Polo), David Parsons (Track/Cross Country). Winner: Trey Lundquist David Parsons

staff reporter

ost athletes would cringe at practicing for two to four hours a day during the season and almost double that in off-season. But Trey Lundquist takes it in stride. For his performances in both baseball and football, Lundquist was named the 20082009 Lion’s Tale Two Sport Athlete of the Year. Lundquist began playing football in his freshman year in high school, but his baseball days began much earlier. “I began playing baseball when I was five years old. I’ve always wanted to play baseball because my dad did it in college and he pushed me to be involved in high school and sports were the best way to express myself.” Lundquist has excelled in both of his sports, though as he’s progressed through high school football has become his favorite. In his senior year, he grabbed 46 receptions for 600 yards and five touchdowns and made the Seminole County All-Star Team. He was also named the Oviedo 2008-2009 Senior

Athlete of the Year. One might imagine that the time crunch created by his schedule would get to be quickly overwhelming, but Lundquist says that he prefers it that way. “I found that my grades are actually higher when I am in season playing a sport because I have a set schedule,” says Lundquist. “During season I always have to keep up with my school work because I know I won’t have any extra time to do it. It kept me from being lazy and slacking off.” Lundquist also says that athletics has been one of the big ways that he’s defined himself throughout high school. “Coming in, people knew my name because I was the principal’s son, but they didn’t really know me. People just kind of figured I was there because of my dad, but this year especially I was able to earn people’s respect and perform well.” Lundquist’s athletic achievements drew the eyes of about a dozen Division III programs, but he decided on the University of Florida as his college preference. He plans to continue athletics during college, though at the intramural rather than collegiate level. “I’m just going to focus on my academics. I will miss playing organized sports, it’s what I’ve done my whole life, but I feel like it’s time to move on and focus on my career and education.” Even though his high school sports career may be coming to an end, Lundquist will many memories and life lessons with him as he departs for Gainesville. “I learned about teamwork, hard work, and how to be a leader,” says Lundquist. “I’ve learned that hard work will get you far in life and that is the main thing that I will take with me in college and beyond.”

Self refuses to let injuries halt career Award: Break Through Athlete of the Year Nominees: Josh Self (Boy’s Basketball), Rhianna Wardian (Girl’s Lacrosse), Emilyn Banfield (Girl’s Soccer), Samantha Boesch (Girls Water Polo). Winner: Josh Self Connor Bailey

photos/CONNOR BAILEY

sports editor

lagued by numerous injuries, senior Josh Self’s basketball career almost came to an end, but his persistence and hard work paid off. During the first game of this junior year, Self broke his leg, missing all but the last two games of the season. “I was in the air and I came down and another player kneed me right in the leg, ” said Self. The road to recovery was a long waiting process. “Afterwards, it was hard to keep motivated to start playing again, it took a lot of patience and hard work,” said Self. After Self’s hard work rehabilitating his leg he went back to work and suffered another injury when he sprained his ankle during summer season and again, two games into his senior season he sprained the same ankle. “When I sprained my ankle, I had to go through the same process from when I broke my leg. I constantly went to rehab and physical therapy, trying to come back as

soon as possible,” said Self. Self did not give up and during his senior season he led the team in steals, third on the team in scoring and rebounds, and second in assists but claims lot of credit goes to his teammates and coaches. “Josh made several comeback from injuries because of his determination and love for his team.,” said head coach Ed Kershner. Josh commented on his support from his teammates. “My teammates were always encouraging me and letting me know that they needed me back to play,” said Self. Chosen as one of the captains for the 2008-2009 basketball team was a very uplifting moment for Self. “It really set in that I had indeed made a comeback and all of my hard work paid off,” said Self. Self recalled some of the great moments he encountered throughout his senior year. “I really enjoyed winning the games that we were thought to be as the underdogs. For instance the game against Winter Springs, we were predicted to lose but we really stepped up our play as a team and got the victory,” said Self. Self feels a lot of gratitude towards his teammates and coach. “Coach Howell and my teammates were always there for me,” said Self. “Every day at practice they were encouraged me to stay positive and keep on pushing towards the final goal.” Coach Kershner had some finals words in regards to Self. “Josh had so many tough set backs during his entire career, but he just putting those behind him and was trying to improve individually and kept his attitude in a positive way. He overcame a great deal and I respect him for his drive and determination. He made our team better,” said Kershner.

Planner key to keeping bowler on track

The Lion’s Tale

May 15, 2009

photo /COURTESY OF OVIEDIAN

10 p.m. for home games or later if [the game

staff reporter is] away.

xcelling in bowling and marching band while keeping a 4.479 GPA is no simple task, but senior Daniel Leonard managed this along with a schedule featuring five AP classes, making him the ideal candidate for the 2008-2009 Lion’s Tale Student Athlete of the Year. “I feel very honored to be chosen and that my four years of hard work paid off and are being recognized,” said Leonard. Leonard has been bowling for 10 years, this year being named co-captain of the bowling team, and has marched in the Oviedo High School marching band for four out of the seven years he’s played trumpet. Balancing sports and his schedule which includes AP Physics C, AP Literature, AP Calculus BC,AP U.S Government, and AP Macroeconomics takes organization and the ability to follow a strict schedule of band and bowling practices as well as the heavy workload of several AP classes. “I spend about three hours each day either bowling or practicing with the band Monday through Thursday, and on Fridays I have bowling and then band from 3 p.m. to

Out of season I usually don’t spend much time at school, but when the spring musical comes around, I spend between two and six hours per day at school for orchestra rehearsal,” said Leonard. Though balancing homework and sports proves to be a challenge, Leonard said he uses his planner to prioritize and keep track of all his home work, especially with band and bowling competing for time before the school year starts. “My sports start before school starts and coincide through December, so it’s difficult doing one or the other or both every single day of the week in addition to my homework for almost four months,” said Leonard. His system of prioritizing is effective but rigorous, with about four hours each day set aside for homework after sometimes strenuous practices during the bowling and band seasons. “I may choose to not work on the thing that’s due in a week in favor of sleeping that night. So sometimes I get a lot [of work] in one night, but I still get everything done,” said Leonard.

Coach Paul Wilke honors graduate Vicent Battaglia by writing:

Award: Scholar Athlete of the Year Nominees: David Parsons (Boy’s Cross Country), Tyler Heil (Boy’s Baseball), Hannah McClean (Girl’s Tennis), Daniel Leonard (Boy’s Bowling), Alex Mack (Boy’s Tennis) Winner: Daniel Leonard Tova Kranz

Sports

In terms of leisure, Leonard enjoys spending time with friends, but band activities have a place in his free time as well. “I do other things with band, like spring orchestra. I bowl, watch movies. Band really dominates my life, though,” said Leonard. In the bowling alley, Leonard helped lead the boys’ team to a win against Lyman in the district tournament, and was named co-MVP for the season, making him a major part of this year’s bowling team. “Daniel was an easy choice for me to be a co-captain of the team because of his dedication and determination. He was a leader in a quiet way as he used his work ethic and his ability to show the others how hard work and determination would lead to success. His athletic success is a reflection of his academic success as well. The same kind of effort he put into his bowling stems from his hard work in the classroom as well. He is also very much involved with the Band Program, which makes it even more important to understand how he does so much and is still in the top ten of his class. He is well deserving of the award,” said bowling coach Paul Wilkie.

“I dedicate this booklet [end of season pamphlet] to Vincent Battaglia, a graduate of Oviedo High School in 2008 and a former member of the Oviedo Bowling Team. During Vincent’s junior year in high school he was diagnosed with Hodgkin’s disease. From the day he let me know, he has been an inspiration to so many with his “I will beat this” approach. Throughout his last two years of high school and again this year during our bowling season, he continues to bowl and be a part of the team. This year, although he was going through treatments, he would still do what he could to make many meets. He was even able to make the first day of the state tournament. When I received the extra medal from the official, I knew exactly who to give it to. So with the agreement of my assistant coaches, we presented it to Vince the following Saturday at our Oviedo Bowling Center in front of his friends and teammates. At this printing he is home resting in the last stages of conquering this cancer. Vince is an inspiration to me and the team.” -December 2008

Congratulations

Oviedo High School Band 2008-2009

Advertisement May 15, 2009

The Lionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Tale

The Lion’s Tale

May 15, 2009

Sports

The Roar Lindsay Knox

guest columnist

Big fun awaits those willing to try new sports

ummer is the one time during the year when you can let loose and learn a new sport. We live in Florida, folks. Let’s hit the beach.

Wakeboarding

So you couldn’t go skiing this winter. This is the next best thing and you probably won’t break your leg, either. Wakeboarding is a sport derived from waterskiing, snowboarding, and surfing, This extreme sport involves you riding a wakeboard attached to either a boat or cable system. It’s your personal preference how fast you are pulled and also the size and weight of the wakeboard. Although wakeboarding isn’t the easiest sport to learn, with a lot of dedication and practice wakeboarding could become your favorite summer hobby.

Beach volleyball

photo/COURTESY OF OVIEDIAN

BATTER UP. 1.) Third basemen senior Dani Wayt waits to field the ball, looking to throw out the runner. 2.) Short stop sophomore Chelsea Wildley fields the ball and throws it to first base.

Bowling team completes

historic winning season

he boys and girls bowling team steamrolled the competition to become conference champions, district champions, and state runner-ups. The team faced their share of injuries. Male bowler, Mitchell Shumway, was throwing up the whole day during district championships and also bowled with a broken finger. Female bowler, Ashley Malmstrom, suffered serious tendonitis in her knee midway throughout the season but continued to bowl despite the pain. The Oviedo High School bowling team went further this season than any other in the history of the school. At states, boys remained undefeated until the last match. While the girls lost their first match and had to fight all the way up to the championships, Julie Leonard took home the girls individual state championship

with Tien Holmes

Ten seniors sign with colleges to continue sport Signee David Dodge (soccer) Dani Wayt (softball) Todd Hankins (baseball) Malcolm Clapsaddle (baseball) Kara Mundelein (soccer) Ellyn Spandenberg (lacrosse) Eddie Boyd (football) Amber Evans (softball) Stephanie Shoup (softball) Natalie Bellatoni (softball)

College Appalachain State University Winthrop College University of Georgia University of Georgia Columbus State Jacksonville University Beloit College Manatee Community College Manatee Community College St. Pete College

O.K. So you can’t afford boat rental, gas and a new wakeboard. Go to Ron Jon’s Surf Shop and buy a volleyball. You’ll be required to play barefoot and contrary to indoor volleyball, teams consist of two to six players. This means you’ll need to take some friends to the beach with you. Rules change on the beach-It’s legal to cross under the net and teams aren’t required to rotate positions and there are no substitutions. If you fall, you will appreciate the soft sand landing. Wear your sunscreen because chances are you will want to pay until your team wins.

Scuba Diving

This one requires some planning but it will be well worth it because you can scuba dive the rest of your life. Dayo Scuba in Orlando offers full open water certification. This is the initial course you will need to take. Half the course can be taken at home on your computer. That’s the academic part. The other half turns out to be fun. It’s called the “wet” portion and is done in three morning and consists of real dives in lakes, springs, or the ocean. Once you earn certification,I advice you to sign up for the fish identification course. It will help when you are being trailed by that five foot fish with glittering teeth and you can say ”What? That old thing? It’s just a barricuda.”

Taylor Malkus

Lions Tale:When did you start playing volleyball and why? Taylor Malkus: Sixth grade, my middle school only offered four sports (including volleyball) so I wanted to try and play all of them. LT: What are your plans after high school? TM: Attend the Florida State Film School at FSU and earn a degree in motion picture tech. I’ll be playing club volleyball in Tallahassee as well. LT: Favorite song or band? TM: None, specifically but I listen to a lot of Alternative. LT: Favorite Actor? TM: Don Cheadle LT: Favoirte superhero? TM: Batmanuel LT: What would be your dream car? TM: Ideally, a 360 Modena. But if I could have any, it’d be a Pagoni Zonda. Yay for half millioin dollar cars! LT: One thing you wish to do before you die? TM: Play in or attend the FIVB world cub.

photos/GRAHAM CHRISTENSEN

May 15, 2009

The Lionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Tale