Volume 19, Issue 5

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BLUEPRINT Vol. ol. 19 Issue 5 | April 19, 2024 | Hagerty High School | Oviedo, Florida

Max Bray, 12

Paige Carruthers, 12

Yor Briar

Edward Scissorhands

Haylee Citty, 12

Vash the Stampede

CHOOSE YOUR

CHARACTER

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Cosplay encourages creativity and provides inclusive community

Aslan Shwartzoff,

Ares Smith, 12

Shadow Operator

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Futaba Sakura

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Pride flags removed Parent complaints lead to campus flag removals

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Pill paradox Medication has pervaded American culture

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Lacrosse beats Oviedo Boys lacrosse makes a turnaround

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Removal of pride flags raises questions

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BluePrint Staff

n the morning of Feb. 6, band students gathered in their classroom as usual. And it was a pretty typical morning—except for one unsettling change.

“Some people came with a ladder,” sophomore band student Juliana Noorlander said. “And [Brian] Kuperman [one of the band directors] had the kids set up the ladder and hold it down while he climbed to grab the pride flag, which was above his office at the time. We all just stood in silence for a few seconds realizing what was happening.”

Noorlander and her fellow band members had arrived before school started, just in time to see the removal of the large rainbow flag. None of them had anticipated watching this symbol being taken away, even among the increasing amount of laws and policies targeting LGBTQ+ students and teachers.

“We were in shock,” Noorlander said. “We immediately went to our phones to text our parents and friends what happened.”

Band was not the only classroom impacted.

That day, drama teacher Jamaal Solomon also had AT THE END OF THE RAINBOW Early this year, principal Frasca received a parent complaint about the pride flags hanging in the Band and Theater classrooms. Both flags were taken down, but many LGBTQ+ students and allies find to remove the pride flag that had previously hung the removal concerning. in the theater room. Students began to speculate where this had come from, and whether it meant the decoration hanging in their classroom related to the Progress Pride Flag. It was this version that the standards and curriculum that they were teaching, band classroom once displayed. removal of all classroom pride decorations. and gave them an opportunity to give me their Band and theater benefit from a strong sense For students who did not witness the removal reasoning for that.” of community, so the teachers and members in person, the realization came more gradually and While Solomon decided encourage students to be more open, and less dramatically. to move the flag elsewhere consequently, these classes have become safe “For a few [students] it took rather than risk potential for LGBTQ+ students. a couple of days to figure out I really liked how they had a consequences, Kuperman sent environments “In the theater department, we are creating a that it was gone, because it’s pride flag in the first place. I in justification of the flag for culture of kindness,” Solomon said. “Everyone is free nothing that I normally would started wondering why they Frasca to review. to be their true, authentic selves. We create a safe address,” Solomon said. “It was would even take it down.

“I did consult with our space for everyone to be included and invited, and just there to show support.” legal department,” Frasca everyone is welcome.”

- Alex Rocha Bida, 9 Freshman band student said. “And their advice was The flags’ removal has been met with Alex Rocha Bidá was not there that it didn’t meet the standard of the course. As a frustration and anger from LGBTQ+ students and the morning that the flag was taken away, but they principal, I have to keep my personal beliefs out of allies of the community. Students and parents noticed its absence and were disappointed. my decision-making, and I have to make sure that alike have expressed concern for the growing lack “I really liked how they had a pride flag in the I objectively look at policy and of tolerance, and Frasca has first place,” Rocha Bidá said. “I started wondering law and make sure that we are in received complaints from both why they would even take it down.” compliance as a school.”

So…why did they even take it down?

The real question would be against the school’s actions in Based on the legal In January, a parent sent a complaint to why the attention [goes] to relation to the flags. department’s counsel, Frasca “The real question would Principal Robert Frasca, asking about the policy for the singular person trying determined that the flag would “controversial issues.” to take it down, and not the be why the attention [goes] need to be taken out of the band people attempting to put the to the singular person trying “A lot of people would want to know, how is classroom as well as theater. to take it down, and not the that controversial?” Frasca said. “It’s controversial flag back up.

The band and theater people attempting to put the because look at the disagreement we’re already - Juliana Noorlander, 10 programs have long been known flag back up,” Noorlander said. having. Whether I agree with the fact that it should to have a broad mix of cultures, identities, and “People cannot be ignorant forever.” be [controversial] is irrelevant.” sexualities. And until that day in February, they were LGBTQ+ students have continued to wear This instance fell under school board policy pride clothing, display pins, and show support to 22-40, which states that any classroom decorations able to express as much relatively openly, without much disruption or interference. each other in the absence of acceptance. Even as or instructional materials dealing with controversial Pride flags have been around since the ‘70s, policies such as this continue to grow in number, topics must relate directly to the curriculum or be and symbolize the pride of the LGBTQ+ community students maintain hope for the future. removed from the teaching environment. through rainbow hues. Since the first iteration was “I would hope that in the future things like “I went to both teachers,” Frasca said. “I designed, they have continued to evolve; one of being queer are more common and not looked gave them the opportunity to provide me with the most common in modern times is known as the down upon,” Rocha Bidá said. an explanation of how they believed that that

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Q&A “Acceptance. And just that feeling: seeing that people can feel accepted.”

- Olivia Ahlqvist, 10

What did the pride flags mean to you?

“It meant a safe space and a community, like an area where I could be myself.”

- Isabel Breitsprecher, 10

“When we see something “To me, it was symbolic of that represents a lot of us up having it be a safe space for there, we feel welcome and everybody to be who they loved..” are.”

- Samantha Orne, 10 - Ilyssa Reichhardt, 10

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New bus ID program off to a bumpy start disorganized quickly as students board the bus without waiting for a n his 16 years as a bus driver, Charles green light.

McCain has seen a lot. From crying “Speed is crucial. [Sometimes] the elementary school kids to obstinate kids get off the bus, they’re already high schoolers, his job requires out the door and gone, and the tablet adaptability. This year, students is still trying to figure out who that are not the only ones testing his person was,” McCain said. patience: the Even before school’s latest the pilot started, It [can get] annoying, especially it ran into technology updates are. problems as ID when I’ve seen kids for years On April 2, got and [the system] doesn’t even distribution Hagerty began messy just a recognize them. implementing a few days before transportation the program’s - Charles McCain, bus driver pilot program, expected where students scan IDs as they start date, with cards distributed to board on and off the bus, while bus teachers at random instead of by drivers are expected to supervise the period. process on tablets.

“It was a little stressful for us,” Despite stemming from a desire principal Robert Frasca said. “We had for student safety, the system can get one teacher with 150 IDs and we had tedious in practice. others that had none…[but] we did the “It’s hit or miss for me,” McCain best we could to get them out.” said. “I hope it’s worth it…but it [can Junior Alton Ashford did not get] annoying, especially when I’ve receive his bus card until after the seen kids for years and [the system] program started. Although he was doesn’t even recognize them.” able to get on the bus without much Whenever the program fails issue, he questions the efficiency of to recognize a student, a buzzer such a program. sounds and the bus driver is forced “My bus driver already knows to manually load the student into the my face and everyone else’s face…it system. This small task can become seems pointless,” Ashford said.

Josephine Lim | News Editor

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NEWS BRIEFS Knoblauch national finalist

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Kailey Calvo | Print Editor

enior Nadia Knoblauch did a lot of traveling this spring. On April 4, Knoblauch was named one of the top state journalists in the nation, along with the student journalists of the year from Pennsylvania, Texas, Virginia and International. Knoblauch spent a month working on her portfolio for the Todd C. Smith Journalist of the Year award, her hard work paid off on March 1 as the Florida Scholastic Press Association announced her as the winner, making her the Knoblauch poses with her first recipient in school National Student Journalist history. of the Year finalist plaque “When I finally Photo | Kailey Calvo submitted it, it was like a weight had been lifted off my shoulders and I tried not to think about it until a couple of days before it was announced,” Knoblauch said. “When I finally found out that I had won, I was relieved and happy that a goal I had been working towards for three years paid off.”

Knoblauch worked every day for a month formatting her online website, to make it visually appealing and easy to navigate, and showcase her journalistic work in 11 categories, including writing, design, broadcast journalism, marketing, law and ethics.

SAVED BY THE BELL Students board the bus at the end of the school day. In the first week of April, Hagerty started requiring students to scan themselves on and off the bus using IDs distributed the week before. Photo | Josephine Lim

Although many students raise similar concerns, Frasca believes the small bumps in the program will eventually smooth themselves out.

“I think it’s a good thing. It’ll give parents more information about where their kid is, and once it gets rolling, it will be minimal work for everybody,” Frasca said.

On McCain’s part, he also recognizes the potential benefits of

the program, even as he has to deal with the day-to-day challenges.

“There are times I can hear [people] on the radio, saying ‘We’re looking for a student,’ and the drivers say, ‘Well, they got off at this stop,’ and then it’s, ‘Are you sure they got off at this stop?’ and it’s just a back and forth,” McCain said. “The program has the potential to be worth it, [but] there’s still work to do.”

Rep. Eskamani visits Girl Up Language society inductions

Holly Smyers | Staff Reporter arch is known for many things.

For basketball fans, it is the beginning of March Madness. For the Romans, it was the first month on the calendar. For women everywhere, it means a chance to celebrate their history and think towards the future.

Girl Up chose to honor Eskamani speaks at Women’s History Girl Up’s March meeting.

Month by welcoming a Photo | Holly Smyers guest speaker: Florida House representative Anna V. Eskamani, who discussed important issues regarding women and encouraged students to pursue the causes most important to them.

“It’s very empowering because it’s not every day you get to see representatives willing to talk one on-one-with the people that they are representing,” Girl Up vice president Jazzy Compton said. “I think that’s really nice that she took the time to appeal to young voters and showed them what it’s like to be a woman in power.”

Currently, Eskamani is the state representative for District 42 and is the first Iranian-American to be elected in any public office in the state of Florida.

Growing up in Orlando, she always felt support from her friends and community and wanted to give back.

“I’ve always just been grateful for the love and support my community has shown me,” Eskamani said.

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Greta Carrasco | Online Editor ll eyes are on the mother candle, the symbol of upper class students passing the torch or “flame” to underclassmen and continuing their studies on the culture and language of their respective societies.

All four language honor societies inducted a total of 120 students for the 18th annual language induction held on April 11 at the auditorium.

Inductees arrived at 5:30 p.m. to organize seating arrangements and go over the general ceremony.

The language induction began at 6:30 p.m., with the Color Guard starting the ceremony by reciting the Pledge of Allegiance. The first society to be inducted was National Spanish Honor Society.

National French Honor Society went next. National Chinese Honor Society went next receiving purple cords to mark their entry into the society.

National American French Honor Society secretary Lauren Bliss names inductees.

Sign Language Photo | Chloe Sanna Honor Society was last, so while they could not receive a candle, they signed and recreated the action of blowing out their candles with their hands.

The ceremony ended with Rhode congratulating all inductees and thanking assistant principal Reggie Miller for his support of the programs. The students and their families celebrated in the lobby of the auditorium with cake and refreshments after the ceremony’s end.

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Drama debuts ‘The Drowsy Chaperone’ Kailey Calvo | Print Editor

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fter showing both “Mean Girls” and “Clue” this year, Purebred Productions debuted “The Drowsy Chaperone” on Thursday, April 4. “The Drowsy Chaperone” features a middle-aged theater fan, “Man in Chair,” as he narrates a long playing vinyl of his favorite musical, the fictional 1920s musical “The Drowsy Chaperone.” The audience is taken through the silly dramatic parody of a musical, in which Broadway star Janet quickly falls in love with Robert and enlists a chaperone to keep her away from him until their wedding, through the Man in Chair’s eyes.

“This show is a take on how things can be perceived through an old eye and old ear. Nothing on stage is actually what happens within the fictional musical, it’s all told through the Man in Chair’s perspective, which makes it really interesting. I don’t think there’s another musical out there like this one, which makes it all the more special,” senior Madelynn Roberts, who plays The Chaperone, said.

Despite being a rookie on the theater stage, with only one other Purebred Production show under his belt, senior Bryce Padilla led the cast as the Man in Chair. Although his lack of experience presents some barriers,

Padilla used his humor to emphasize from the show and will definitely keep the over-the-top nature of the show. the audience invested,” Register said.

“I wish I would have joined theater The cast began rehearsing in sooner because I thought about it the beginning of March, giving them multiple times, and I feel like I would time to become well-versed with their have gotten a lot more used to being characters’ mannerisms, while also on stage. In “Mean Girls,” I was a part adjusting to the auditorium’s recently of the ensemble and only sang the installed sound system. entire time on “Our stage, while experience for this show, with doing It’s kind of a shame that not a “Mean Girls” I narrate lot of people know [“The Drowsy showed us every scene,” Chaperone”], but that makes it Padilla said. I that our even more special because we can department was already expose our audiences to this show does have a comfortable and its message. with singing lot of natural on stage, but talent and - Julia Register, 12 acting in front of the ability to people, especially for my first time in a have a great production quality, and major role, has been an adjustment.”

I’m glad our sound can finally reflect The Man in Chair uses his witty that,”Roberts said. comedic timing to comment on the Working with the new sound plot and the main conflict within system did present its challenges the musical, which is the love story during rehearsal. between Janet and Robert, played by “When we started rehearsing in senior Julia Register and sophomore the auditorium and with microphones, Shaun Epperson respectively, as their it was definitely different. It helped wedding gets called off several times. us learn where to stand on stage to “Everything Janet does is so minimize loud feedbacks from the ridiculous and exaggerated but also mics, and did make rehearsal more so serious to her. You can really tell rocky, but I know it will ultimately that she cares about Robert and their increase our show with some relationship so much throughout the practice,” Padilla said. story. Their relationship is a highlight This was the last Purebred

Productions show for several seniors in the cast, making the excitement of opening week bittersweet.

“I’ve done every musical the department has produced for all four years. I didn’t plan on doing theater in high school or ever, but finding this program has made me fall in love with being on stage and being in front of an audience. No other space has really been able to give me this same sense of comfort or give me as strong a passion for something as this,” Roberts said.

While this production may not be as well known as the previous musical, “Mean Girls,” Register was confident that audience members and fans of theater would enjoy their performance of “The Drowsy Chaperone.”

“It’s kind of a shame that not a lot of people know [“The Drowsy Chaperone”], but that makes it even more special because we can expose our audiences to this show and its message,” Register said. “The Man in Chair’s character is all about how much love he has for show tunes and theater, and I just think it’s important to show people that everyone has their own passions and individual places that they may ‘escape’ to, but theater can also help bring everyone together and create community.”

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CURTAIN CALL (1) Reporters flock to Janet, played

by Julia Register, as she makes an announcement about her engagement to Robert, played by Shaun Epperson. (2) The chaperone, acted by senior Madelynn Roberts, dramatically tells Janet a story about love. (3) Janet and Robert, a famous showgirl and her new fiancé, have a stressful conversation in the garden about the future of their relationship. (4) Roberts and Register act out the dramatic and wise lesson about love. (5) Reporters and photographers crowd around Register as she describes the status of her relationship to Robert. (6) Janet debuts a new outfit and dance number after getting married to Robert in a joyful finale.

Photos | Savannah Towne

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SYSTEMATIC

FAILURE

Lia Miller | Opinions Editor and while Trump has tried to brand himself as an outsider, he has been the major political force in the he upcoming election will feature a rematch U.S. for a decade, and the current political climate of two of the most disliked men in America. encourages extremism and polarization.

Neither of these men is qualified to run the Maybe the citizens of the United States need book club at a senior living community, much less the entire country, so the fact that they have gotten someone a little bit younger and newer to the game. this far raises an interesting question: what exactly Biden is currently 81 years old, and Trump is 77 went wrong?

It is no secret that Joe Biden and Donald Trump (though he will be 78 by Election Day); either way, the next president will be the U.S.’s oldest. were never the most loved presidents. With The issue of age occurs with all Trump’s problematic social ideology, elected positions, resulting in an and the conflict over his role in average Congressman age of the Jan. 6 riot, a lot of people— 58 years—19.5 years older Republicans included—are than the average American. undoubtedly having second The age gap between these thoughts about reelecting representatives and the him (as they should; how people that they supposedly do we justify re-nominating represent is old enough to a president who was vote, rent an apartment, impeached twice?). serve jury duty and donate And Biden is not the its sweet, injustice-flavored ideal person to dictate blood. internal affairs and foreign But alas, according to the policy either; the rising inflation 56% of Democrats and 66% of and overall lack of control during Republicans who do favor Biden and his term speaks for itself. In fact, Trump, one of these men will according to a poll done by make a fantastic leader.

Reuters, 44% of Democrats Just imagine it: the 47th did not want Biden to run Biden is currently 81 years old, president staggers into a again, 34% of Republicans did not want Trump to run and Trump is 77 (though he will cabinet meeting to speak again, and about two-thirds be 78 by Election Day); either in a wheezing voice that no one else understands about of all respondents would way, the next president will be the a subject that he does not rather that neither of them understand. At 4 p.m., it is ran. oldest to ever serve. already past his bedtime.

The problem is with Deep down inside, he just wants to play golf. His the system that allows each candidate to win cabinet nods and smiles as he rambles on, then over their individual parties despite the fact that carries on however they please. most voters dislike them. In the primaries, only For four entire years. registered Republicans or Democrats vote, so while We have a minimum age to run for president, the majority seems to favor the two candidates, so why not a maximum? Or what about an they are actually chosen by the majority of one independently administered test to assess mental group. This also leaves out Independents, who capability? We take SATs to get into college, and consequently find themselves caught between two a driving test to ensure everyone’s safety on the bad options. road, so why not one in order to lead the country?

But even with our current system, we should still The United States just needs to rework the entire get more qualified candidates than this. election process; the system is clearly broken, so Neither Biden nor Trump have shown much why not fix it? open-mindedness, and both seem to have little In the meantime, we can look forward to an knowledge of the needs of the diverse population onslaught of negative propaganda and more of the United States. Not to mention, they are useless signs than a crossroads in Wonderland. wildly out of touch with how their laws and policies Regardless of who wins in November, the actually affect others. majority of voters will start counting down the days This makes sense, given that both have until 2028, hoping that somehow, this situation will pursued a career in politics for many, many years. not repeat itself again.

Biden won his first election for Congress in 1972,

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WHAT DO YOU said THINK? ofthatstudents they would

On average, students rated their candidate

On average, students rated their candidate

in terms of how effective they would be as president

in terms of much they liked them as a person in terms of how min

54% 46% 3.2/5 2.8/5

Student voices on the 2024 election 127 surveyed

vote for Trump

of students said that they would vote for Biden

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FIRED UP

Nadia Knoblauch | Editor-in-Chief

Fired Up: Alabama’s recent ruling threatens IVF The average newborn baby weighs seven pounds and measures 19.5 inches.

Now in Alabama, in vitro fertilization eggs, (commonly referred to as IVF), of only 15 to 22 millimeters in size, will be legally seen as living children.

On Feb. 16, the Alabama Supreme Court issued a ruling that embryos created through IVF are to be considered children under the law. After a lawsuit from three couples against the Center for Reproductive Medicine and the Mobile Infirmary Association after their IVF eggs were destroyed by a patient in an Alabama hospital, this ruling not only poses a risk to medical professionals, who must dispose of unviable eggs as part of the IVF process, but other couples going through the IVF process.

This ruling is another extension of antiabortion legislation, using legislation to hold parents responsible for the moral beliefs of others. With it being unclear what would distinguish a disposal of IVF eggs as “improper,” Alabama’s decision does not protect families, but threatens their existence.

According to Justice Jay Mitchell, the ruling was protected under Alabama’s Wrongful Death of a Minor Act, now including “extrauterine children,” or IVF eggs. This has rewritten the definition not only of a child but of life in Alabama.

Alabama’s ruling has already seen effects, with the University of Alabama Birmingham hospital pausing IVF treatments after the ruling.

If the whole point of the trial was to preserve life in Alabama, why have the lives of hopeful parents been negatively impacted?

Just like any other hopeful parent, those going through IVF should not need to worry over being charged for the “murder” of their eggs if they are not viable. The entire concept of IVF is based on the viability of eggs for life. Not that they are already living.

If all eggs are to be considered the children of a couple, would some simply not being viable for life, as the majority of eggs are, cause the couple to go through an unneeded and ridiculous legal process? How are those unable to naturally conceive children supposed to go through the IVF process, meant to assist and improve lives, if they could face prosecution?

Imagine this: a couple going through IVF has poured care, time and thousands of dollars into their treatment plan. But, when they have to dispose of eggs that were not even viable for life, they end up in court?

This decision not only threatened those in Alabama, but similar minded states, especially Florida. The last thing we need is more regulation on the reproductive rights of women and families (who are fully developed human beings.)

The argument of when “life” truly begins is one that is sensitive and varies across cultures, religions and traditions, which should all be respected in their own right. But no belief of others should limit couples’ access to IVF treatment or creating a family.

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BLUEPRINT OUR TAKE: Proceed with caution

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Hagerty High School 3225 Lockwood Blvd.

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

EDITORIAL POLICY The BluePrint is a studentproduced newspaper in which the student editors make all content decisions. The newspaper belongs to the Columbia Scholastic Press Association, the National Scholastic Press Association and the Florida Scholastic Press Association.

Opinions expressed within the newspaper do not represent the staff’s views as a whole, the views of Seminole County Public Schools’ or Hagerty High School’s administration and staff.

STAFF Editor-in-Chief Nadia Knoblauch Print Editor Kailey Calvo Online Editor Greta Carrasco-Garcia News Editor Josephine Lim Features Editor Gabriella Navarro Opinions Editor Lia Miller Sports Editor Ava West Staff Reporters Jolin Alcindor, Grace Hilton, Isaiah Macri, Lillie Overton, Holly Smyers, Ava Strzalko Adviser Brit Taylor Principal Robert Frasca

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BluePrint staff

scanning system for bus IDs, standardized tests online and an improved wifi network: Technology is deeply integrated into everything we do at Hagerty.

Every day, we use high-tech systems to do everything from submitting assignments to taking standardized tests.

Most of these advances are not only helpful but necessary to prepare us for college and the workforce.

At school, students have access to computers, whether that be in labs or computer carts, to use to complete in-class assignments, as digital assignments like discussion posts can ensure that students are engaged throughout a lesson. Most often, the wifi speed is relatively fast, allowing for all 2,580 students to use the same network during the school day. This is a massive upgrade from what was the norm just a few years ago and it’s clear that Hagerty provides students a huge advantage.

Technology allows students to be exposed to a greater amount of information, as using a phone or computer as a part of an educational lesson can allow students to explore topics beyond what is covered in traditional textbooks, increasing curiosity about certain subjects, and fostering a love of learning.

While the benefits of technology are hard to overlook, it is not the solution to every problem.

Too many digital aspects of the classroom can increase the room for error and become more difficult to manage. Think about it: if someone buys an electric car with all kinds of gadgets, it increases the amount of potential issues. The same is true in

the classroom, as network issues or computer malfunctions continue to plague students daily.

Technology integration may reduce face-to-face interactions between students and teachers.

While online collaboration through discussion boards can create an opportunity for students to learn, learning can be the most beneficial face-to-face, and building strong relationships and effective communication skills are essential for a well-rounded education. The overuse of technology can hinder the development of such skills.

Reliance to technology could also hinder a student’s ability to think critically and problem-solve. Many students don’t complete handwritten assignments or notes because of overreliance on technology. While more time-consuming, writing

pen to paper, rather than typing, can increase the likelihood of remembering details of a lesson, and can enhance learning.

Cell phones and devices can be helpful for lessons or assignments in class; however, they often distract students more than help them.

Between social media and games, students can easily be sidetracked by the important topics they are learning about. This overall could lead to decreased attention spans, reduced productivity, and a lack of focus on the lesson.

Ultimately, technology is a useful and helpful tool that our school needs to prepare students for life beyond high school. However, technology is just a tool, and if overused, other necessary skills needed to function in the classroom and society will quickly wither away.

Illustration | Josephine Lim

Under the spotlight: horror stories from child actors Jolin Alcindor | Staff Reporter

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hen you watch a television show on Nickelodeon, it was an escape for most of us growing up. A fun, safe world where problems never got too bad and everything turned out happy at the end of 30 minutes. But behind the scenes, the actors who were our age had to endure painful experiences that would stick with them for life.

On March 17, 2024, the bombshell documentary series “Quiet on Set: The Dark Side of Kids TV” released its first episode on Investigation Discovery. The limited series followed years of allegations against Nickelodeon staff, mainly focusing on producer Dan Schneider, the creator of popular Nickelodeon shows such as “iCarly,” “Drake & Josh” and “Henry Danger.” In the four-part docuseries, former child actors, such as Drake Bell from

“Drake & Josh,” talk about their part together, Bell’s father felt something in the show, detailing a toxic working was off. Joe Bell, Drake Bell’s father, culture, and, for some, even abuse. recalls having a bad feeling about How, as a Peck being society, are we around his son so able to let this often. happen? And And sadly, how, how could his feeling turned the children — out to be true. A who seemed 15-year-old Bell to have it all was asleep on a — have any couch when the grievances with sexual assault the task? occurred, starting In the a pattern of docuseries, abuse that ended Drake Bell, with Peck going actor of the hit to jail. He was Illustration | Ava Strzalko show “Drake charged with 11 & Josh” that ran from 2004 to 2007, counts of lewd misconduct and served alleges sexual abuse from his dialogue 16 months in jail. coach, Brian Peck. According to Bell, Jennette McCurdy, a former child Peck would have Bell stay at his house star of shows “iCarly” and its spinoff for LA auditions as Peck lived closer, “Sam & Cat”, released a memoir and the two spent so much time titled “I’m Glad My Mom Died” in

2022, accounting for her experiences with her abusive mother and uncomfortable experiences on the set of both shows. McCurdy talks about her struggles with developing an eating disorder in order to “maintain her size to stay employed.”

The number of horror stories that have been told doesn’t end there, but one question remains on my mind: Where are the protections for child actors?

Currently, there are no federal protections for child actors in the industry. State protections exist, the majority of which are in California, however, no major legislation has been passed ensuring the total protection of child actors. This needs to change.

It is truly awful what has happened to actors like Drake Bell.

The government needs to do its part to make sure it will never happen again.

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MOVIE SEQUELS In the past several years, the tactic of “nostalgia-baiting” has been used more and more hen I was 6 years old, my parents took me to market to fans. The idea is that if a remake or and my sister to see Disney’s “Frozen” in sequel of a beloved movie gets announced, people theaters. As soon will buy tickets because of as I heard “Let it Go” for their fondness for the story the first time—watching as and characters, no matter Elsa unpinned her platinum how long ago the original blonde hair and built a palsource material came out. ace from her powers—I was It is a strategy that leaves hooked. It was all I could fans with the short end of think about. My previous the stick, because most love for “Cinderella” and of the time, the sequels “Tangled” was completeand remakes that are ly forgotten as I begged advertised do not live up to my mom to braid my hair expectations. exactly like Elsa’s, mimickTim Burton’s “Beetlejuice,” ing the pose she had on had a teaser for a sequel the movie poster in every 36 years after the original photo I took. movie came out. Because In February, Disney of its cult-classic status, announced that a “Frozen producers have decided 3” as well as a “Frozen that if they could get 4” were in the works. All some of the original cast the children who first saw members like Winona “Frozen” in theaters have Ryder—which they did— grown older, but hardly tickets will sell. any time has passed in the The movie is set to release world of the movie. The in September, and it will Photo | Warner Bros. characters are left encased in a tomb of ice, forced definitely make money off of to be re-awakened every six years in hopes of the original’s fans, but this cycle of dusting off older attracting the attention of new generations of kids movies for unnecessary sequels needs to stop. everywhere, with their parents’ money in tow.

There are so many interesting stories and ideas The additions to the Frozen franchise are not that can be explored in film, and at the end of the the only sequel movies Disney day, these nostalgia-bait movies has recently announced, with are only hurting fans with the “Zootopia 2,” “Moana 2,” These “nostalgia-bait” movies lack of care put into them by “Inside Out 2” and “Toy Story are only hurting fans with the the quality of the writing. The 5” in the works. scariest example might be the lack of care put into them by fifth installment of the Scream Sequels to hit movies like “Frozen” will always make franchise, where the new leads the quality of the writing. money from sheer popularity, are underdeveloped and make but it’s clear that Disney and Pixar are thinking little sense considering the previous film plots. about money first when they resurrect completed Movie studios may keep trying to entice viewers storylines. “Toy Story 4” is another example since by reviving their old childhood movies, but I have to “Toy Story 3” gave the characters a good ending wonder: what would my 6-year-old self think of this where the toys from the first few films got a new constant cycle of mutilating her favorite characters owner, effectively wrapping up the storyline. All fans, in favor of making extra money? While it might be old and new, were satisfied with this ending, so why enough to feed my younger self and millions of did these movies get greenlit in the first place? other hungry fans, now I see it for what it really is.

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Ava Strzalko | Staff Reporter

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Nadia Knoblauch Editor-in-Chief In this video, Nadia investigates a culinary class favorite: gourmet pizza.

Lillie Overton Staff Reporter Lillie asks students about their online classes and how they are handling the end of the year.

Kailey Calvo Print Editor Kailey covers the second annual Black History Month cooking competition.

“The Cruel Prince” Gabriella Navarro | Features Editor “The Cruel Prince” is the first book in “The Folk of the Air” series by Holly Black. It revolves around a mortal girl named Jude who lives in the Faerie world. She was 7 when her parents were murdered in front of her and stolen away to live in the High Court. Ten years later, Jude is trying to win a place at the Court, learning skills of trickery, deception and bloodshed along the way.

The book has a little bit of everything.

Politics? Check. Interesting family dynamics?

Check. Morally gray characters? A gripping plot? A hate-to-love slowburn romance? Check, check, check.

I am always a little nervous when starting a new fantasy series because I don’t want to compare it too much to other series I’ve read and be disappointed. However, this book goes beyond comparisons, breaking literary norms with its unique storyline and intoxicating line up of characters. Holly Black is not afraid of bringing out the dark lore of the fae, breaking their daisies and rainbows stereotypes. When the introduction gave me a rhyming fairytale poem by Robert Graves, I knew that the author loves the fantasy world she built.

And I love how Jude is morally gray. She’s power hungry and willing to do whatever it takes to prove herself to the world that hates her kind. She’s driven by her need to fit in and break everyone’s weak expectations of her. It makes her likable that she has to work her way up the totem pole. I also like how she’s incredibly smart but still has her foolish moments, showing her imperfections.

There were no moments in this book that I felt were out of place. Also, the descriptions of the weird world were marvelous. You can quickly grasp what every creature looks like, which helps the story flow so much better.

Jude and Cardan’s budding relationship is the pinnacle of the hate-to-love trope, and I am here for it. There is so much tension between them, and I like that their relationship never pretends to be healthy. Cardan is an egotistical prince that treats Jude in a way that is far from okay. But Jude also manipulates Cardan for her own gain. I can’t wait to see how their relationship develops in the next two books.

Lastly, the power shifts, amount of scheming, lying and betrayal are all amazingly balanced.

Holly Black knows how to create multiple plot twists without them getting repetitive or predictable. Jude’s different plots in her rise to power were my favorite parts in the book. Not only were they nail-biting but they also showed the progression in her skills. I also loved being able to read her thoughts and how she planned everything out.

I’m glad I finally read “The Cruel Prince”— even though it was recommended to me a thousand times. Everyone knew what they were talking about based on how it quickly made its way up to one of my favorite fantasy books.

If you’re like me and love fantasy books with touches of spies and enemies-to-lovers, then this should be the next book you pick up.

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School undergoing several big-ticket upgrades Media Center

The refurnishing of the media center started the summer before 2023-24 school year. So far, the school has spent $30,000 on this project with more furniture coming.

Track Installation

The total, the installation of a new track cost $233,000.

With district support, the school saved $100,000 finishing the installation in time for December.

Cafeteria Renovation The construction of mini restaurant Filtered as well as the refurnishing was funded by a grant from Red Apple Dining. The project was finished during winter break.

New Audio System

After planning for system upgrades for the auditorium, Frasca approved $80,000 to be spent on installation of a new sound system, light board and projector.

Computers

The school will hold its first digital AP testing this year.

Because of this, the school approved $120,000 on more technology to meet the demand of digital testing.

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FACILITY PROJECTS

time a student passes an AP test, Project Managers the school receives a set amount Of course, the responsibility of of money to spend on classrooms. renovating and maintaining facilities aneled wood, high rise chairs, Hagerty makes between $600,000 to does not only fall on Frasca’s padded seats. When students $800,000 per year from AP scores, shoulders. School administration came back from winter break, which is then budgeted for technology, manager Jason Maitland and athletic the first thing they noticed was the renovations and director Jay Getty are two main cafeteria’s new other necessities. facilitators of this process. look, complete I have an open door policy...to The school can As the main overseer of facilities, with new furniture and a try and make sure everybody spend up to $25,000 Maitland decides how to distribute without needing the budget received from Frasca, mini-restaurant has what they need to take district approval. dividing the cost between boasting various care of our facilities for our kids However, when landscaping, plumbing, food and drink and for our campus. expenses and other maintenance selections. While rise above - Robert Frasca, needs. this upgrade $25,000, principal “The hardest thing is was the most planned when you’re starting prominent upgrades will need approval from a new project because change around campus, there have assistant superintendent Mike that’s going to have the been several other projects still in Rice; when the quantity is above most steps and involve progress or already completed since $50,000, it will have to be the most people,” Maitland the beginning of the school year. approved by superintendent said. “Day to day things are not very So far, the school has spent Serita Beamon. Before difficult. We have really good staff that over $450,000 in facility renovations, sending in plans for knows exactly what they’re doing and including installation of a new track, a approval, Frasca has to how to fix things. They’re very fast and new audio system in the auditorium, give the final okay, but very efficient.” media center refurnishing, new not without administration and staff On a daily basis, Maitland works computers, cafeteria renovations and with custodial staff to make sure electronics for classrooms. This amount, collaboration.

“I have an open door policy. So, a bathrooms, lights, and however, does not include the rebuilding lot of times, staff members, teachers, classrooms work smoothly. of the stadium’s bleachers or the new coaches, sponsors will come and ask for During long-term construction vending machines around campus. things, and sometimes I can share some projects, he works directly of the cost and, sometimes I can’t,” with architects, engineers and Project Funding Frasca said. “So subcontractors.

The amount is a lot, but the school it’s splitting up For Maitland, Replacem has three main ways to get money The school receives to try and make sy plumbing is for these upgrades: facility rentals, sure everybody a recurring government funding, and academic has what they problem funding. need to take from AP exams each throughout the year,.

The school has been renting care of our “A lot of the problems out facilities for over 10 years. Many year, with a signficant facilities for our with the plumbing and community organizations have held portion funding upgrades kids and for our anything getting backed recitals in the auditorium or used other & renovations up is students flushing facilities over the weekend or during the campus.”

For the things down the toilet summer. Action Church, a local ministry, most part, school programs like dance, that they should not be flushing down meets on campus every Sunday cheer and band like paper towels and contraband,” for their weekly services. This year, finance themselves Maitland said. $150,000 of the through ticket sales, Apart from the bathroom, Maitland facility upgrade competitions, and helped oversee the installation of budget fundraisers. However, Filtered, the new vending machines, came from on some occasions, and the track installation. community Frasca is able to aid “Anything to make the experience rentals. those programs. a little bit better for [students] is always The second Recently, the school our goal,” Maitland said. way the school helped purchase a gets funding is new tractor to keep The big projects through state the baseball and Getty oversees the renovations grants, which softball field properly and projects throughout the athletic give between maintained. The program. This year the stadium $25,000 and tractor cost $9,000, bleachers were repaired for $200,000, $30,000 for but with the help of the track was installed for $233,000, renovation $3,000 from the Athletic Booster Club and the stadium branding cost projects. and $2,000 financed by the teams, $10,000.

However, the biggest source of Frasca approved the remaining $1,000.

The school has planned and school funding is AP exams. Every Greta Carrasco | Online Editor

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worked on a full stadium improvement project for five years. Every 10 years tracks around the district are milled, the asphalt is grinded and then restriped. In order to align the cost with district funding, the school had to wait until the process was approved and completed for them to install the rubberized surface. While the total cost was $233,000, the district contributed to a large portion of funding the project, allowing the school to save $100,000.

The track was successfully installed at the end of December before track season started.

“Creating a time schedule with the least impact on the sports

Illustrations | Josephine Lim

currently in installation in March, was the last part action is the hardest part of of this project. The cost of the these projects,” Getty said. “But with audio system was $50,000 and any renovation, the goal is to always the total cost for the project propel the particular program to a which includes the sound greater success level.” system, lightboard and The track was not the only projector was $80,000. project that took years Before Anything to make the of planning. the project experience a little bit better for was started, Theater teacher Jaamal [students] is always our goal. engineers came Solomon was to the school to - Jason Maitland, put in charge of determine the administration manager planning and problem of the facilitating a sound system. After full technical system replacement the problem was gauged, Solomon in the auditorium, a project that and Frasca had to decide to repair was planned four years ago. The or replace the system. In the end, sound system, which finished they decided on a complete system

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replacement. During the entirety of the project, many obstacles were tackled including a problem with lack of spacing for the new speakers and mixed up wiring from the old system. After the system was shipped, the full installation lasted two weeks.

“In the end it was manageable since we had the full support of administrators and everyone involved was flexible,” Solomon said.

“It is important to keep our facilities updated. The students, their families and our patrons deserve the best.”

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WHY BLACK HAIR MATTERS Isaiah Macri | Staff Reporter

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Illustration | Areli Smith

ho does your hair?”

“How does it stay like that?”

“How do you wash it?”

Black hair has always been a subject of compliments, controversy and confusion with people of other cultures often having misconceptions about the unique textures and styles of their melanated peers. While people of other backgrounds may not be able to personally relate to the experience of having black hair, it is good for everyone to be educated on the history, the importance, and the stigmas around it.

hair which has to be maintained often, if not it will lock up,” Taylor said.

The hair follicles on the heads of black people are curved, this results in each strand of hair growing in a spring-shaped or zig-zag pattern.

This unique curved hair follicle acts like velcro, and curls wrap around each other allowing hair to stay in these unique styles without the need for hair ties or rubber bands. For the most part, black hair falls in between 3A and 4C curl patterns, a scale of measuring the curliness of hair. 3A hair consists of looser curls and usually grows downward as opposed to outward, and it’s not uncommon for those of other races to have this hair type as well. On the other end of the spectrum, 4C hair is made of extremely tight curls and is much thicker than other hair types. 3B, 3C, 4A and 4B all fall somewhere in this spectrum and are common in blacks of all different nationalities.

Stigma

While black hairstyles have become much more accepted, there are still instances of discrimination on the basis of hair. As recently as August 2023, Texas high school student Darryl George was suspended for his barrel rolls, a style in which dreadlocks are coiled back in rows along the head.

Up until 2017, the U.S. Army had a ban in place on dreadlocks.

Throughout American history black hair has been seen as unhygienic or unprofessional, however, a lot of progress is being made with many Why is black hair important? states passing various versions of the Creating a Black hair is important because it helps define Respectful and Open World for the person who wears it. It Natural Hair Act. A 2023 CROWN is a form of self and cultural research study showed that 20% expression, showing where a Black hair is beautiful, black of black women ages 25-34 person is from, what they’re hair is unique, black hair is have been sent home from work interested in, and/or what because of their hair. group they identify with. different, and it’s important An African American student’s “As African Americans, mother was told by her manager for others to understand and our hair is our signature of at Disney’s Hollywood Studios appreciate that. who we identify as,” Yvonne that she may need to change her Taylor, who has been a -Yvonne Taylor, hairstylist hair for work. licensed cosmetologist since “They told me and a man that 1995, said.

I worked with who also had curly hair that it didn’t fit Taylor owns a hair shop in Orlando on South the Disney look and asked if I could make it less big,” Primrose Drive and has been doing hair since she the parent said. was young, well before receiving her cosmetology While local Florida governments like Broward license.

County have implemented policies prohibiting hair It’s not just a haircut, it’s more than a style; it discrimination in employment practices, statewide helps establish a sense of personal confidence that bills have struggled to pass. stems from tradition and culture.

Regardless of prejudice black hair is beautiful, “My hair means everything. Whenever I go to unique and a staple of African American identity a barber the one thing I will never get is a buzz cut that can be worn at many different lengths and in a because my hair defines me, it’s who I am,” junior vast number of styles.

Eddie Sanchez (3C) said.

“Black hair is Another important aspect of black hair is the beautiful, black hair relationship between client and stylist. Many African is unique, black hair Americans have their hair done by a close relative is different, and it’s or family friend or have had the same barber important for others for years. Some go to the same stylist that their to understand and grandparents and parents went to. When a client is appreciate that,” in the same room with a hair dresser for hours and Taylor said. that hair dresser is in control of how they are going to look for the next month a connection is formed between them.

“What I enjoy about doing hair is transforming TWISTED Bantu people into someone they love looking at in the knots originated in Southern Africa. mirror. I have been doing hair since I was in middle Hair is sectioned school. I used to meet girls at school just to style and then wrapped their hair before school,” Taylor said.

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What makes black hair different?

Black hair is different not only in appearance, but in the way it’s groomed, and the way it grows.

“Black hair is probably the most complicated hair to maintain. We have different textures of curly

in a way that stacks the hair on itself and forms a spiral knot.

Illustration | Christin Smith

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Greta Carrasco | Online Editor

Camila Bello - dance Junior Camila Bello follows the highintensity rhythm of the song, distinct with its 12-beat cycle and the bustling of a guitar. With every step, the dance becomes more intense and improvised.

This type of dance is known as bulerias, one of many styles of flamenco.

Bello started dancing when she was 4. Her mom always loved flamenco and took Bello to try it out for herself—after that day, she never looked back.

“It was love at first sight,” Bello said. “I never stopped going to class.”

Bello was introduced to many types of flamenco at an early age. She has danced stylized flamenco, which is a soft, flowy type of flamenco that incorporates elements of ballet.

She has danced farruca, a type of flamenco that was initially danced by men but now is danced by women, and her favorite type, bulerias, a high-intensity style of flamenco.

“I really get to show off my knowledge of the dance [when dancing bulerias],” Bello said.

Bello participates in many competitions and showcases with her dance school Flamenco del Sol. Typically, Bello participates in group competitions with her dance academy, but her most recent competition, PTA Reflections, led her to explore a new challenge: a solo she choreographed by herself.

“It was very stressful. I found out late into submissions about the competition and I could only practice for one hour each day. At that time I also had to practice for other recitals so I ended up filming the entry the day before it was due,” Bello said.

Bello went on to become the school winner, moving on to districts and even qualifying for states.

Apart from going to practices and competitions, Bello has another way that she involves herself with flamenco: teaching. Currently, Bello teaches beginning flamenco to the age group of 5 to 11 and sets up choreography, music, and costumes for the kids.

However, she doesn’t believe she will pursue flamenco professionally.

“Flamenco is really the only obsession I have ever had.

Whenever I’m stressed I turn to flamenco, whenever I’m sad I turn to flamenco. Even though I won’t pursue dancing as a career, it will always be part of me,” Bello said.

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CHARACTER Cosplay encourages creativity and provides inclusive community SHOW OFF Senior Paige Carruthers cosplays a Halloween version of the character Sukuna from the show Jujutsu Kaisen. Characters from Japanese illustrated series, anime, and graphic novels, manga, are commonly cosplayed by fans. Photo | Johnathan Ellis

it was amazing,” Bray said. “Positivity is something that is a struggle everywhere today, and I think for utting an outfit together is pretty common. the most part, at conventions, there is a lot of that.

Sometimes, it takes one minute. Other times It is a chance to feel special and appreciated, [you an hour. can] have fun exploring your hobbies in new ways For senior Haylee Citty, crafting the perfect look and bringing characters you love to life.” can take over a month.

Collaborating with other cosplayers plays a “It takes a couple [of] months to create a large part in the open and accepting nature of the cosplay, from finding a character and or inspiration community. These collabs may involve large groups to go off of, getting pieces shipped online, going to dressing up as different characters from a series craft stores to gather materials, hand making parts and recreating scenes between the characters, or or a whole outfit and accessories, then finding a dressing up as the same character to represent time to create content,” Citty said. different variations of them. Content For Citty, cosplaying characters from her creation also allows cosplayers to bond favorite shows, such as Bungo Stray Dogs and over shared interests and collaborate Helluva Boss, has given her a creative outlet, even within fandoms. if it takes weeks to prepare. Cosplay is the practice And to bring these characters to of dressing up as characters from books, shows, life takes not only a lot of time, but movies, video games or other forms of media. While lots of money. From the students it may seem similar to dressing up for Halloween, interviewed, cosplaying a character cosplay focuses more on can range detailed planning for outfits, from $50 character selection and to upwards of This hobby has definitely content creation, as many $250. Costs for helped me find a community cosplayers will film videos or cosplay can include set up photo shoots based on wigs, materials of people who enjoy the same the characters they cosplay. to sew clothing things I do and express love “Each cosplay is different. or create props, for different forms of media.

Sometimes it takes a day or accessories or even two, sometimes months. It pre-made cosplays.

- Ares Smith, 12 depends on what work I do When it comes on it and how busy I am. Wigs and props take hours to detail, senior Paige Carruthers’ cosplays to a few days, buying clothes and fabric and sewing excel to another level. Carruthers has are all dependent on the costume,” senior Aslan made four full cosplays on her own, Schwartzhoff, who enjoys cosplaying characters in crafting everything from wigs to scissor groups, said. hands, which took almost two months Citty has been involved with the cosplay to craft for her Edward Scissorhands community since 2022, while Schwartzhoff started cosplay. The costumes must be as in 2021. Both were introduced to cosplay through accurate as possible, but after five fandom groups on social media, specifically the years of being involved in cosplay, apps TikTok and Instagram, where users can create Carruthers has seen how her and post video content. Despite being introduced to creations have improved. cosplay online, the community has a very present— “My first cosplay was Bennett and large—following. Attending conventions such from Genshin Impact since I liked as Megacon, Metrocon, Central Florida Comic Con, his character design. Looking Brick City or Orlando Anime Day allows cosplayers back, I like to see the progress to show off their hard-planned outfits, mingle with I’ve made because it was a fans of different shows or games and collaborate handmade cosplay,” Carruthers with other creators. said. “I have definitely improved Conventions can also be a welcoming space on wig styling and camera for new members of the community, according to presence since then.” senior Max Bray.

With progress comes change, “I was introduced [to cosplay] by a few friends and changing up a character’s look—or her own— is who wanted to take me to a cosplay convention… no foreign idea for Carruthers.

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“I tend to enjoy cosplaying characters that have more non-human elements to see how I can recreate those. I like experimenting in different makeup and SFX to see what I can do to improve the quality of the cosplay,” Carruthers said.

Creativity and community are the building blocks of cosplay. According to senior Ares Smith, cosplay is a judgment-free zone where fans can express their creativity and interests.

“It is a way for me to express myself with the things I love and has helped me meet a lot of my friends and connect with them,” Smith said. “This hobby has definitely helped me find a community of people who enjoy the same things I do and express love for different forms of media.”

COS-BOSS Senior Haylee Citty cosplays Fizzarolli from the animated series Helluva Boss.

Content creation is an important part of cosplay.

Photo | Aslan Schwartzhoff

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THE UNSPOKEN TRUTHS OF

RELATIONSHIP ABUSE Ava West | Sports Editor

Warning: This story contains discussion of abuse, sexual assault and other sensitive topics.

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irst, she told her best friend.

Then, she told more friends.

Next, she told her parents.

Everyone was sympathetic, but Zoey* felt nobody fully believed her.

People often wave away teenagers’ feelings, believing everything is over-exaggerated or even fake. If a teenager claims their high school relationship is abusive, it is usually overlooked as hyperbole.

As a result, many high schoolers do not know how to speak out or handle abusive situations.

emotional manipulation in her former relationship as well.

“He told everyone I was a terrible girlfriend because I could not go to his sports game,” Chloe said. “He got so mad at me even though I had schoolwork to do.”

Emotional abuse Emotional abuse is defined as non-physical behaviors that are meant to control or threaten someone according to the hotline.

Zoey was also affected by emotional abuse during her past relationship.

“After she did something to make me upset she would manipulate me by telling me I’m beautiful and trying to make me feel special—it just made me confused,” Zoey said.

Defining abuse Often, an abuser will compliment There are multiple types of abuse their victim after doing something including emotional, physical, digital wrong to manipulate the victim into and sexual. These terms are blanket believing that the abuser did nothing statements for how many different wrong and still loves them. types of abuse are seen in day-toIt is important to keep in mind that day life. although abuse does happen, there Zoey* is a is a difference senior and had between regular experienced I said no and he did it anyway. relationship most types and abuse.

He knew I was uncomfortable issues of abuse Mistakes can with it but he did not stop. throughout happen, but -Chloe* her six-month when it becomes relationship. repetitive, it “We were broken up when she becomes a problem. told me she was coming over, even Olivia* is a junior who went though I said no. The excuse to come through emotional abuse as she was over was to give me my things back,” constantly misled, lied to and cheated Zoey said. “She would not leave unless on. Their relationship was rocky for I kissed her. She locked the car doors two years, yet she found it hard to let and screamed at me until I kissed her, go. just so she would leave.”

“I would blame a lot on myself and think everything was my fault,” Olivia said. “I was always so upset and it Sexual abuse affected my school and personal life. I According to the National Abuse started to isolate myself.”

Hotline, this would fall under sexual When trying to help a victim abuse, which is defined as when one partner controls the sexual or physical of abuse, an important aspect to understand is why victims cannot aspect of a relationship. leave—they might be scared, blame Besides this behavior, Zoey themselves, are in love with no also experienced coercion, as she reciprocation or have nowhere to go was forced into actions without her for help. consent. Her partner would ask her Emma* is a sophomore who repeatedly to perform sexual acts was in a past relationship that made until Zoey finally gave in. her fear for her safety. However, she Chloe* is a senior who has also stayed with her partner for multiple experienced sexual abuse. She was months because she felt she had young and believed she was helpless nowhere else to go. at the time.

“They threatened to come to my “I said no and he did it anyway,” house and sexually assault me unless Chloe said. “He knew I was I sent them revealing pictures—I was uncomfortable with it but he did not scared to do anything,” Emma said. stop.”

Victims can be manipulated into Digital abuse believing force with sexual activity In addition to emotional abuse, is normal and okay, but it never is.

Emma also experienced digital abuse.

Chloe experienced other forms of

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Illustration | Josephine Lim

Digital abuse is when the internet or social media is used to stalk, threaten or scare a victim.

“He called me to the point where he completely disabled my phone…I had to completely shut it down. When I turned it back on I had hundreds of texts saying how terrible I was and calling me a b****,” Emma said.

normal. Although this is no excuse, it is important to understand where abuse may stem from.

According to the National Domestic Abuse Hotline, “Abusive people believe they have the right to control and restrict their partners’ lives...[that] their own feelings and needs should be prioritized in the relationship or because they enjoy exerting the power that such abuse gives them.”

Physical abuse Another form of abuse is physical, the use or threat of physical violence to maintain control over a partner, How to get help which Emma also underwent.

Even though many victims have “My hair was pulled, I was slapped, a difficult time getting out of abusive I was punched, I was kicked and left relationships, the survivors in this story with bruises all over me,” Emma said. were able to get out and now strive to “People would just stare and talk help others do the same. behind my back “You can about why I had leave—I promise bruises, [but] you are not People would just stare and no one ever talk behind my back about why stuck,” Chloe reached out.”

I had bruises, [but] no one ever said.

While Chloe was reached out.

Emma’s abuse able to leave -Emma* was easier to after telling her detect, sometimes it is more subtle. parents the extent of the abuse, and Those who suspect someone they they supported her throughout her know is getting abused can reach out emotional recovery. Emma was also and offer help or just an ear to talk to. able to find refuge in a concerned If talking to the victim is too difficult or friend. is not helping the situation, talk to a “I started to be known as ‘the trusted adult. girl who won’t leave’ around school, but then a friend came up to me and Why abusers abuse offered to help,” Emma said. “Since While talking about abuse and that day I never went back. Reach out bringing awareness to it is very to someone—it can save them.” important, it is also important to *Victims asked to remain understand why people become anonymous. abusers in the first place. One of the main reasons people abuse others If you or someone you know is because they grew up with abuse needs help, call 1-800-799-7233 or around them and were taught it was text “START” to 88788.

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pill paradox

How medication has pervaded American culture

STOCKED UP America is one of the leading consumers of pharmaceutical medication, raking in half of the global industry’s revenue at $603 billion. However, this mass consumption poses the complex question of how much is too much; how young is too young; and what is necessary vs. what is wanted. Illustration | Josephine Lim

Josephine Lim | News Editor

Mainstream medications, like Advil and Zrytec, fall under the generic category, with many Americans ylenol. Robitussin. Venlafaxine. consuming them on a weekly basis.

Hydroxychloroquine.

These brands enjoy reserved spots From the local pharmacy in family pill cabinets and a relatively down the street to the staple positive public reception. pill cabinet, medicine is a fact “I feel like [mainstream of American life. Every hour, 80 medication] is so common because pharmaceutical ads air on people know American that it helps television.

I feel like [mainstream and benefits In 2022, the them,” junior pharmaceutical medication] is so common Aleena Jacobs industry because people know that it said. “People generated $603 understand it's billion in US sales helps and benefits them. meant to help alone. Currently, - Aleena Jacobs, 11 and improve there are 20,000 one's current, usually short [term] FDA approved prescription drugs on situation and problem.” the market.

Certainly, generic medicine has But when sophomore Shayla its positives. Some stop the spread France was diagnosed with mixed of germs, while others replace connective tissue disease at 6 years chemicals a person’s body may not be old, she was not worried about the producing enough of. Later on in life, resulting cold and numb fingers or almost constant muscle pain–she was medications can help with long term conditions like high blood pressure, or worried about taking a pill. deliver pain relief when needed.

“I was definitely not happy [about However, as with all things, the medication],” France said. “When medication has its pitfalls. The I was younger, I couldn't even swallow a pill without wanting to gag, and [I did ibuprofen that takes away pain does not take away the problem—it only not like how] it made me feel different changes the way the brain reads the from everybody else.” pain signal. The Lipitor that regulates France’s fears reflect America’s high cholesterol does not lower the delicate dance around medication: it cholesterol permanently—it only is normal to take medication, but not reduces the long term effects. talk about; it is okay to take a Tylenol As senior Teddy Baker notes, every day, but not a personalized medication can only achieve so prescription. much—the rest is up to the person’s To genuinely examine this lifestyle. paradox, one must first make a “People [often] look to quick fixes distinction between medicine’s two instead of focusing more on the intake fields: generic and specialized.

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of their diet,” Baker said. “I [myself] because I have to have a filled pill box suffer from chronic migraines, and I to be normal,” Baker said. “I definitely had to limit myself to taking Tylenol think there is a stigma around it only once or twice a week…if you just because [people think] it means there take it every day, then it's not going to is something wrong with you and no work [as well].” one wants to be viewed negatively.”

In addition to justifying people’s Despite the physical nature of apathy towards their health, her condition, France has also faced medication can also become prejudice for her medication use. dangerous with overuse. Since 2000, Having been exposed to the biases the rate of drug-related deaths has against medicine at a young age, it skyrocketed by 137% nationwide. took years before France was able For years, the CDC has classified to comfortably admit she needed prescription drug abuse as an medication to battle her MCTD. epidemic.

“I've come to feel better about “Medication can be harmful [as] it because [I realized] more people it can cause major addiction in many have to take medication than people people,” Jacobs said. “It's very easy to realize, it's just not talked about very get something like a basic medication, often,” France said. [but that also means] it could be The taboo surrounding used in ways personalized that medication medication can shouldn't be be especially I still battle with feeling used.” harmful as broken because I have to have students are However, the negatives of forced to a filled pill box to be normal. medicine do not navigate the - Teddy Baker, 12 always translate murky waters perfectly when looking at specialized of medication on their own. Although medication. Although Baker and adults like teachers and parents Jacobs both agree medication has are often eager to help, mental its downsides, they also acknowledge health counselor James Bartlett they themselves are daily medication noted medication is a complex issue users and are not impervious to its regardless of age. flaws.

“From my experience, using In 2020, Baker was diagnosed a combination of medication and with depression, and their therapist counseling can lead to better recommended antidepressants. results,” Bartlett said. “Sometimes Like many users of personalized [medications are] hugely helpful. medication, Baker has encountered Sometimes they help us a little multiple instances of their own and bit. [Regardless,] normalization is societal aversion to the treatment. important so that people don't feel so “I still battle with feeling broken alone.”

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not for

SOFTIES

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TOP STATS BATTING AVERAGE:

After a win against Lake Brantley, varsity softball looks forward to the postseason

rematch, with no scoring from either side for the first five innings of the game.

In the sixth inning, with Hagerty on defense, ollowing a 16-4 season, the softball team Lake Brantley made a home run—their only home added one more win to their record on Tuesday, April 9, beating Lake Brantley 2-1 in a run of the game. By the second half of the inning, Felker was up to bat. Roman had walked to first seeding game for the district championships. base, and then stolen second and third. Felker hit a Catcher Alexis Felker had eight putouts and home run, allowing both her and Roman to score, two RBIs including a home run that she made, and putting them in the lead.

Roman had one home run, and Stella Christie and “When I was walking up, Ana was on third, and Addison Bell had four putouts each. Pitcher Rachel they had called a time-out,” Felker said. “And I told Matthiesen also allowed only one home run over Ana, ‘I’m gonna get it over right the course of seven innings— here, watch.’ And then I did, so I all of which she pitched. was super excited.”

“We had played Lake We’ve been putting in a The girls took advantage Brantley earlier in the season, lot more work than normal of their trust and knowledge of and we beat them, so we knew recently, so we’re really that they were coming in for preparing for postseason, each other that they had built up over the season, and celebrated revenge,” center fielder Ana when we play the harder each others’ scores.

Roman said. “But we knew teams.

“Alexis was up to bat and their team and we knew what - Alexis Felker, catcher I knew that she was going to they were going to come at us score me in, no matter what,” with. So all of us were prepared.”

Roman said. “So I had complete confidence in her In their previous game against Lake Brantley from the beginning.” on March 8 (their seventh game of the season), the After that, the team only had to hold off Lake team also won narrowly, with a final score of 5-4. On Brantley for one more inning on defense. A player Tuesday, the two teams came prepared for a tense made it to first base, then second as another got to first. They only had one out. Bell caught two balls in a row, and the game was called as a win for Hagerty.

“I’m super proud of the girls, and I’m super proud of myself,” Felker said. “We’ve been putting in a lot more work than normal recently, so we’re really preparing for postseason, when we play the harder teams.”

The team has two more games to go before district championships, playing against Windermere on April 23 and against St. Cloud on April 25.

Last year, they qualified for states—despite losing to Oviedo in the district semi finals—then made a long trip to Pace High School, only to eventually lose to them. This year, with some returning members, and some new players, the team hopes to redeem themselves.

“We’re a pretty solid team,” Roman said. “I think that we have a chance at states if we just continue to play our game and not let the moment get too big or too small.”

Currently ranked 18 in the state and seventh in Class 6A (last year, they ended the season ranked 19 in Florida and fourth in 6A), the team is hoping that they have a smooth run through the championships, and that how they played against Lake Brantley will give them an edge.

“We wanted to place high for our district seeding,” Felker said. “So when we go into postseason, we’ll have to play easier teams, versus having to play the harder teams in the bracket.”

THROW THEM OFF Pitcher Rachel Matthiesen With the win added to their current record, warms up against Lake Brantley. Mattiesen pitched things are looking good in that direction. seven innings, only allowing one run. Photo | Lia Miller

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Lia Miller | Opinions Editor

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ALEXIS FELKER .386 RUNS:

ANA ROMAN 20 FIELDING PERCENTAGE:

ADDISON BELL 0.988 Photos | Lia Miller

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Boys lacrosse resurrects season

strong and shut them out, but Oviedo did the same to us, so the second half went scoreless,” Smith said. he score was 5-5 and the boys The defenses shut down both lacrosse team was heading offenses through the next 24 minutes, into overtime versus Oviedo. In as well as the high pressure defense, the first two minutes, the two teams both teams were aggressive in the each took shots, but nobody could midfield causing multiple turnovers. connect. Then, with one minute left in “It was a rivalry game and a the first period of overtime attacker district playoff game,” Bruno said.

Noah Townsend ripped a shot from “Everyone was playing their hearts out the twelve meter and hitting their line and won the hardest too.” game.

The overtime “My first I saw gloves and helmets thought was, flying in the air and I felt my win marked the ‘Wait, don’t we teammates jumping on me, first time the team had beaten Oviedo have to play and I realized we just beat in two years Since the last minute Oviedo. this was the district of overtime?’”

- Carter Bruno, midfielder quarterfinal game, midfielder Carter Oviedo’s season Bruno said. ended after their loss, the first time “Then I saw gloves and helmets flying ever losing to Hagerty in the playoffs. in the air and I felt my teammates The overtime playoff win jumping on me, and I realized we just represented a big difference from beat Oviedo.” how the season started. A couple of During the first quarter of the days before the season started, the game on April 11, Oviedo pulled coach that athletic director Jay Getty ahead with a 5-2 lead. But the team had hired announced he would not be gained momentum and tied up the coming to take the job, and the team game after shots from Townsend was left without a coach. and midfielder Hayden Lewsnewski, Getty stepped up for two weeks making the score 5-5 at halftime. during the search for a coach and Goalie Grant Smith had 17 helped condition and get the team saves during the game which helped back on their feet. Eventually head contribute to the shutout by the coach David Stone, who retired as the defense in the second half. softball coach last year, took over and “Our defense was able to hold

Ava West | Sports Editor

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RUN IT BACK Defender Linkon Marcantel stops a shot on goal. The boys varsity lacrosse team beat Oviedo 6-5 on Thursday, April 11. Photo | Kayla Rappi

led the team to multiple victories.

“At first a lot of players did not want to be there because there was no coach—no one on the team saw the point in playing,” Smith said. “The seniors grouped together and started to mentor the new players and teach them, and we went from there.”

While the season ended with

Monday’s district semifinal game to Lake Mary, the team feels content with how the season went overall.

“We had a lot of ups and downs but it was all very fun,” Smith said.

“This team is special because a lot of [teams] play strictly to win and nothing else. This team plays to have fun and be a family.”

SPORTS SHORTS Blake places second at states Volleyball beats Lake Mary I Tennis finishes regular season O Jessica Johnson | Journalism I arsity boys tennis finished the regular season with a record of 8-5-1 and are looking forward to their upcoming post-season.

“We did really well this year,” sophomore Aarya Balasubramaniyan said. “It was not only really competitive, it was also fun. No one was left out.”

Some of the team’s key wins this season included beating rival Oviedo 7-0, Lyman 6-1 and Winter Springs 7-0.

“As well as Senior Owen Webster hits the winning most of our ball during practice. matches, we were Photo | Savannah Towne able to beat Lake Mary the second time around and win a couple of lines off of Winter Park,” senior Owen Webster said.

Line one Noah Santiago-Walsh was a big impact on the team during this season, having multiple wins against opponets.

For line one singles, Santiago-Walsh has a record of 3-9 and line three Webster has a record of 3-0. In doubles, while Santiago-Walsh and Webster have a record of 3-3.

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Gabriella Navarro | Feature Editor nly losing in his final match, sophomore Nikolas Blake secured second place in the FHSAA state championships on March 1, marking a significant milestone in his wrestling career. He showcased himself on the mat throughout the tournament, ending with 10 wins.

“Being ranked in second is an incredible honor and achievement,” Blake said. “It’s like a reminder of all the hard work I’ve put into this.”

Freshman Hunter Jessee (4th, 106) and senior Connor Gilliam (6th, 175) also helped lead the team to eigth place at the championships.

“They worked hard Boys wrestling makes it FHSAA and they had a lot state championships. of grit,” coach Scotti Photo | Brooke Bohan Diaz said. “I was proud of how relentless they were and that they wouldn’t quit.”

One of the standout moments was Blake breaking the single-season pin record, a feat Diaz held as proof of Blake’s skill and dedication.

The record was originally 45 pins, which Blake tied in the quarterfinals and broke during the semifinals.

Despite facing many challenges, the team preserved and finished their season on a high note.

“I wanted to do my best and told myself I wouldn’t quit until I had to,” Blake said. “I’m very proud of where I ended.”

Isaiah Maccri | Staff Reporter n their third matchup of the season, the boys volleyball team defeated Lake Mary 3-0. The match was held on April 9 where the team won the first and second sets 25-22 and the third set 2519. The boys had previously lost to them March 8.

Going into the game the team had a record of 10-8, 0-1 in the district.

The team was led by setter Caden Houston who had 27 assists and outside hitter Marcel Clemens who had 14 kills.

Houston is averaging 4.8 assists per set, and has 270 for the season. He is ranked 25th in the state for assists.

Houston’s serve percentage for Setter Caden Houston serves the game was 100 the ball over the net. percent. Defensive Photo | Brooke Bohan specialist Seth Davis also contributed to the win with three assists and nine serve receives.

The win ends a two game losing streak after a 2-1 loss against Spruce Creek and a 2-0 loss against Lake Howell, ranked fourth in the state. Following the losses the team played in a tournament in which they beat Lake Mary.

“We had some good wins in the tournament, it helped us get back on pace,” Davis said.

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GOING Baseball wins sixth at North Carolina National High School Invitational Holly Smyers | Staff Reporter

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he boys baseball team walked on the field to play the Chaparral Firebirds in the National High School Invitational in North Carolina, for their third game in the tournament. The team was 0-2, and with the stands crawling with scouts, they were hungry for a win.

For the final two games they did just that, coming in sixth overall. They were one of 16 teams in the nation who attended, spending a week in North Carolina from April 10-13.

After losing their first two games

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to St. John’s College and Farragut, they were naturally upset, especially since they thought they had a chance to win. “[When you keep losing], you become more jaded, more mad,” second baseman Jones Carbon said.

“It’ll just be a snowball effect.”

However, over the next two games they scored 17 runs, including a 10-0 win in the Chaparral game.

“You have to find a way to overcome adversity,” Carbon said.

“If you play scared, you’ve already lost. We just go get the job done, and sometimes it doesn’t go our

FIRST CLASS Pitcher Braden Toro pitches against Winter Springs earlier in the season. In North Carolina, Toro was named first team for the National High School Invitational. Photo | Kayla Rrapi

way. Humans make mistakes, but we The team was invited because of always find a way.” its success in the past, with several Not only was the tournament former players now playing in the a unique way for the players to major leagues. The tournament challenge themselves, it was also an serves as a way for up-and-coming opportunity for the students to play players to prove themselves to on multi-million dollar fields in perfect potential recruiters. weather. The trip gave students the “We’re a smaller school, with chance to travel with their friends out less guys on our roster,” Gutierrez of state and face the best teams in said. “We don’t have all the bells and the country. whistles that the private schools have.

“It’s a really good sneak peek We want to show them we mean into what college and baseball was business. Just because we’re [a] public going to look school doesn’t like,” catcher mean we can’t Bailey Gutierrez still compete with We don’t have all the bells said. “It’s really [private schools] on and whistles that the private the field.” cool that once your games are schools have. We want to show Baseball is them we mean business. done you get a very strategic, to relax, just mindset-oriented - Bailey Gutierrez, hanging around game, and if catcher each other’s a player is not rooms, having team meals: things we mentally there, it shows. A big part of normally wouldn’t be able to do to a what makes the team successful is certain degree back home.” the support that the players give each The game is an important other. opportunity for scouts, who attend “There’s no other school around every game, often using radar guns that has [the] brotherhood that we to measure how fast players throw have,” Carbon said. “When I look back a pitch. It is also the most reported on the team, I’m very proud of the event these players may ever attend boys—I can shed a tear talking about if they do not continue playing in how proud of them I am.” college. USA baseball and many In the regular season, the team popular social media accounts cover has five games left until the district the game. Plus, the entire event was championships. The team hopes streamed online. to take the momentum from the “What really stuck out to me tournament in order to contend for was the overall attention you get district and state titles in the future. there, because this is such a high“It’s everything coaches ever level tournament. It’s definitely nerve asked for for the past four years to racking,” Gutierrez said. “It also makes win a state title. We checked every it so exciting since you really don’t get box to go win a state title this year that experience anywhere else. And and that’s all we’re betting for,” then the presence of the scouts just Carbon said. “We got goals and we’re adds another layer.” going to make those goals happen.”

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Athletes of the issue

MINA STEPHENS FLAG FOOTBALL

Quarterback Mina Stephens Photo | Levi Cal-Rivera

The female athlete of the issue is senior Mina Stephens of the varsity girls flag football team.

As quarterback, she has a total of 848 passing yards for this season, double the national average.

“My biggest accomplishments from the season was scoring the first [girls] flag football touchdown,” Stephens said. “I also had 504 rushing yards, which was the most in the conference.”

Stephens has also contributed 21 points across eight games.

The three wins for this season earned Stephens three”’player of the game’” awards, and another for the last game before district championships.

NOAH SANTIAGO-WALSH TENNIS

Tennis player Noah Santiago-Walsh Photo | Savannah Towne

The male athlete of the issue is Noah Santiago-Walsh. SantiagoWalsh plays on the boys varsity tennis team and is line one for singles and doubles. He is a senior this year and has been playing tennis since the beginning of highschool.

“Two of my best matches were versus Seminole and Lake Howell.

They were both very close matches and I was able to play some high quality tennis,” Santiago-Walsh said.

Santiago-Walsh has three wins and nine losses in singles.

The boys varsity tennis team has a record of 8-5-1 and will be heading into post season.