FEATURES
SPORTS
PAGE 8-9
PAGE 12
Top ten seniors are recognized for academic success
Beach Volleyball wraps up their season
ENTERTAINMENT
Moonknight brings light to DID
PAGE 20
LION S TALE
OVIEDO HIGH SCHOOL • 601 KING STREET • OVIEDO, FL • 32765 EDITION 6 • MAY 9, 2022 • VOLUME 62 • OVIEDOJOURNALISM.COM
Signing Off
2 | NEWS | THE LION’S TALE | MAY 9, 2022
Signing off as the school year comes to an end As the 2021-2022 school year comes to an end, the Lion’s Tale staff has been hard at work preparing our senior edition. This senior edition is twenty pages long, and filled with stories that showcase important events from throughout this school year. Back in August, the COVID-19 pandemic was in full swing, and Seminole County’s mask mandate was still imposed across schools. Events like pep rallies and games had to be held outside, or with limited capacity. Come May, the Covid cases are minimal; and events such as prom or graduation are held at full capacity. Seminole County schools no longer have a mask mandate, due to the decrease in cases. It seems that the pandemic is on a downhill slope, and interferes with day-to-day life less and less as the year progresses. Meanwhile in the past year, Oviedo
High School students have accomplished more than we can fit into one newspaper. Oviedo publications recently attended FSPA, and competed in journalism contests and brought back awards. Multiple of our athletic teams went on to compete in districts, or even states. Seniors have finalized their college decisions, or have signed to colleges to play their sport at the collegiate level. This week, students of all grade levels have been studying hard for their end of year exams. We wish them the best of luck as they put all their hard work from this year to practice. Speaking of which, this school year has certainly been an interesting one. This senior edition of the Lion’s Tale will feature stories that reflect this year’s highlights, and that of the past decade. Traditionally, our senior edition
includes an opinion column from each of our senior staff members, and a spread recognizing our top ten seniors. Senior columns from our staff can be found on pages five through seven, and our top ten seniors are recognized on pages eight and nine. However for this senior edition, we will also be picking our own ‘top ten’ from the past ten years. Our staff’s top ten movies, teachers, athletes and more can be found on pages ten to eleven. We will also be ranking some of our top newspaper and yearbook covers from the past few years. Furthermore, we will also be featuring notable seniors from band, TV production, and yearbook. Oftentimes, students like these go unrecognized, and we wanted to highlight all of their hard work. Our news section will be covering
OUR WORD
various awards nights, from the ‘Lundy’s’ to the senior awards night, both found on page fifteen. Check out our sports section for the top ten student athletes of the year, with a few honorable mentions as well. Our sports writers sat down with athletic director Jen Darty to discuss the athletic year in review, and covered beach volleyball. Last but not least, our entertainment section is wrapping up the year with reviews of Marvel’s Moonknight and Doctor Strange. Finally, the Lion’s Tale staff wishes our readers a happy and healthy summer break. It is important to this time to relax, unwind, and enjoy the weather. We wish our seniors the best of luck in whatever they choose, and we can’t wait to see everyone else next year! Signing off, -The Lion’s Tale 2021-2022 staff.
Meet The Lion’s Tale staff Riley Sanderson Reporter Riley is a sophomore and this is her first year on staff as a reporter. Riley is a distance runner on the track and cross country team. She loves music, Marvel, and sports. Riley’s favorite team is the Georgia Bulldogs. After high school, Riley hopes to become sports nutritionist.
Emma Ormond Reporter
Kait Peterson Reporter
in designing.
Kate is a senior and this is her third year on staff. After graduation, she is studying anthropology and archeology internationally next year in Italy. In her free time, Kait participates Olympic weightlifting and fashion
Emma is a junior and this is her first year on staff as a reporter. In her free time, she enjoys swimming, spending time at the beach, and baking. Emma’s favorite treat to bake is cupcakes. After graduation, she hopes to go to college and major in marketing.
Have a great summer! -The Lion’s Tale staff Editor-in-Chief Emma Yost Managing Editor Hannah Warrner News Editor Hannah Warrner
Opinion Editor Veronika Maynard
Art Director Veronika Maynard
Features Editors Ashlee Ross Penelope Banks
Jr. Art Director Audrey Strembicki
Reporters Kaden Bryant Nelly Campos Audrey Choate Entertainment Editor Jaden Cordonero Elliott Woodmansee- Joemi Cordonero Siress Vincent Crook Laura Cruz Online Editor Merrick Dicarolis Hannah Warrner Eric Esquivel Esther Guevara Sports Editors Mackenzie Holmes
Emma Ormond Kait Peterson Mikayla Philpot Madisyn Rummel Riley Sanderson Alexis Shaughnessy Nathaniel Zoucha Photographers Diego Lara Audrey Strembicki Danielle Stein Faculty Adviser Ben Langevin
OVIEDO HIGH SCHOOL • 601 KING STREET • OVIEDO, FL •MAY 9, 2022 • VOLUME 62 • EDITION 6
FRONT PAGE DESIGN BY VERONIKA MAYNARD
Admin Adviser Nancy Diaz Principal Dr. Trent Daniel Oviedo High School 601 King Street Oviedo, FL 32765 P: 407-320-4199 F: 407-320-4213 Population: 2800 students across in person and online settings 29 newspaper staff members
Mission Statement The Lion’s Tale is the student newspaper of Oviedo High School, located in Oviedo, Florida. Our mission is to provide news, feature stories, editorials and opinions relevant to our readers while upholding the highest professional and ethical standards. The Lion’s Tale follows copy standards outlined in the Associated Press Stylebook, 42nd Edition, published in 2007 by the
Associated Press, and is a member of the CSPA, NSPA and FSPA. Distribution 800 copies of The Lion’s Tale are distributed free to all students and staff at Oviedo High School. Subscriber information is available on OviedoJournalism.com. Reader Contributions Letters to the Editor are accepted and may be
sent by post, e-mail or dropped off in Room 5-020. The Lion’s Tale does not accept guest columns and reserves the right to edit Letters to the Editor. Full policy is available on OviedoJournalism.com. Advertising Policy The Lion’s Tale reserves the right to refuse advertisements. The full advertising policy of The Lion’s Tale is available on OviedoJournalism.com. OVIEDOJOURNALISM.COM
DESIGN BY EMMA YOST
MAY 9, 2022 | THE LION’S TALE | NEWS | 3
Year in Photos ITS ON! During senior week, seniors had their first annual dodgeball tourament. Ending the school year with fun activities helps remind the seniors they can still have fun before college.
PHOTO BY DANIELLE STEIN
DEFENDER Senior Chloe Loperfito has been on the OHS lacrosse team for all four years of high school and is saddened her last season has come to an end. PHOTO BY AUDREY STREMBICKI
HYPED. The OHS student section shows their excitment for the victory over our rival school Hagerty High. The varsity football team beat the pups 43-14 sercuring the win.
PHOTO BY AUDREY STREMBICKI
SUPER STUDENT Caroline Przystup, 12, wins the principal's award at the undy’s PHOTO BY DANIELLE STEIN
SENIOR CEREMONIES Brialore Campbell is recongnized with an ROTC award at the Senior academic award ceremony.
PHOTO BY OHS PUBLICATIONS
DESIGN BY AUDREY STREMBICKI
4 | FEATURES | THE LION’S TALE | MAY 9, 2022
Open prom gives queer youth a safe space STORY BY KADEN BRYANT
In high school, oftentimes many students are closeted due the treatment of others. This struggle includes the issue of attending prom and even causes some students not to attend at all. Many LGBTQ+ students want to go, but stray away due to anxiety around being accepted or judged by their cisgender peers. As a solution to this, an open prom was organized by OHS seniors Camille Rush and Kristi Rivera who saw a need for an inclusive event. However, the event was not sanctioned by Seminole County Public Schools and was completely organized by the students. “It provides a safe space for people who are unable to just be themselves,” said Rush. “A lot of queer people have to worry about being harassed for dressing the way they want, but the open prom allows everyone to be safe and comfortable and still enjoy themselves.” The event was held on April 23, 2022. Tickets were priced at a low 20 dollars - compared to 90 for
regular prom - with a photo area, food, requestable music, and a karaoke machine being provided. By having a separate prom for queer identities, it eliminates the worry of judgment and harassment. Instead of having to be anxious about how people might react to their same-sex partner or appearance, these people are now able to be themselves in a safe space. “Everyone there was just so nice and friendly,” said Roman Wilson, a sophomore who attended the open prom. “It was less about the stuff you could do and more about the people that were there just having fun together in a place where we could all feel safe.” The open prom will likely be continued in the following years, seeing as how much it means to LGBTQ+ students. Though it’s unfortunate that not all queer students feel comfortable enough attending the regular prom, this is a viable solution for those still wishing for a night of fun that many straight, cisgender people take for granted.
GETTING READY: Camille Rush, Kristi Rivera and Isabella Capitanio gather together before attending the inclusive open prom.
“It was more about the people that were there just having fun together in a place where we could all feel safe.” - Roman Wilson
Starry night: Prom fashion trends excite students
PROM NIGHT: Highlighted in red: Giovana Meade, highlighted in yellow: Max Strickland, Kristian Galloway, and highlighted in blue: Brianna Bibona dress up to attend prom.
DESIGN BY KADEN BRYANT
From bright colors, fun prints, and lots of straps, there was a lot of creative and unique prom attire this year. In the first photo, Giovana Meade is in a bright red gown showcasing its strappy open back. It’s an elegant yet fun way to show some skin. Next, we see Max Strickland and Kristian Galloway in their best formal attire. The brown accents worked and the suit itself was on theme. Galloway is wearing a black suit with an elegant floral print starting at his neck all the way to his pants. This subtle yet bold touch is something we saw widely across many suits this year. Wearing all black was also a big hit as the monochromatic look has been a hit in recent years fashion. Brianna Bibona is featured on the right in a bright blue dress on theme with “starry night”. Her gown has a sequence pattern detail all across and it looks absolutely stunning. Prom fashion this year was definitely a hit and needless to say Oviedo High students did not come to play, STORY AND ALL PHOTOS BY MADISYN RUMMEL
MAY 9, 2022 | THE LION’S TALE | OPINION | 5
R e f l e ct in g on t h e h ig h school STORY BY EMMA YOST These past four years have felt like a lifetime, one that I never thought would come to an end. Maybe thinking like that has actually made the idea of graduating even harder for me - I never thought it would really happen. But as graduation approaches and I reflect on my time at Oviedo, I decided that if I could, I wouldn’t go back and change anything. All the hard times, disappointments, and bad friends were somehow worth it in the end. It sounds cliche to say, but I’m thankful for all the lessons I gained from these bad experiences. Throughout middle and high school, a pattern has recurred with my friends. Each time, I tried so hard and gave everything I could to be a good friend, and received nothing in return. It took me three years to come to terms with it, and realizing that they were never really my friends crushed me.
experience
Besides friendship problems, high school overall was rocky thanks to the pandemic interruption and everything else in between. To top it off, balancing putting together college applications and managing the newspaper this fall while adjusting to being back in-person was perhaps the most overwhelming experience yet. I felt hopeless, as if I was putting so much effort into something that wouldn’t have anything in return for me. Regardless, high school has not been all of what it’s cracked up to be. Experiencing the heartbreak of losing a friend, or that first breakup, is truly devastating. Because when you are
The high school
perspective
We all know that at some point in our high school career, we’ve all cared a little too much. Whether that’s stressing over the five point assignment that miraculously dropped your letter grade or listening to the whispers of your peers. Though it’s a crucial development period for many, it’s safe to say we’ve done the exact opposite of “not stressing the little things”. It’s almost like everyone is in the same 4 year competition both academically and socially. And if you’re not interested in being side by side with your classmates in this competition, you may as well be a social piranha. The interesting thing about highschool is the variety of people and how they are able to balance school and life. Some choose to get jobs, others choose to solely focus on school. But if there is one thing many teenagers have in common it’s having your canvas app loaded up and ready to turn in any last minute assignment wherever you are. Everyone gains the same satisfaction from seeing DESIGN BY KADEN BRYANT
the confetti fall above your screen when submitting. Then there is the pointless busy work you’re given that somehow ends up being worth more points than a quiz. Don’t stress it too much though. I mean, if the people who do nothing can walk out of the class with a higher grade than you for doing the bare minimum, you can ultimately do anything. In all reality we truly are lucky to have some lenient teachers, though a key word being ‘some’. After school hours is of course where it happens to get the most interesting. As soon as that bell rings it’s like a signal for everyone’s alter egos to appear. Now, during this time the gossiping begins. Why gossip? Well for some it brings interest to their lives, others out of spite, and like many pure entertainment you have absolutely nothing to do with. To clarify, it definitely is not as entertaining and interesting when you’re on the other end of the stick. High school has come with many hurdles, but it’s also been rewarding at the end with graduation so close in sight. STORY BY PENELOPE BANKS
sixteen, your friends letting you down feels like the end of the world. And in a way, it is. But I’ve found that somehow, two years later, it does all work out. Because in my last quarter of high school, everything finally fell into place. I committed to my dream school that I think will be perfect for me. I won a journalism award that made everything that happened this year worthwhile. I found a new group of friends who appreciate me for me and a guy who really is worth my time. Part of me is frustrated that I finally got to experience what I always wanted high school to be just as it’s ending, but I like to think it’s helping me learn to
not take anything for granted. I try my best to soak up every moment I have left, and just enjoy the remainder of my time here in Florida, before I leave for college in Colorado. Considering all of this, it’s safe to say my high school experience was surely not the one I expected or hoped for, but in the end, I’m not going to remember all the nights in my room I spent alone. It will be the moments where I laughed so hard I couldn’t breathe in sixth period, midday Dunkin’ runs, and the Friday night football games that I reminisce about when I drive past Oviedo High School. I’ve come to accept that you have to take what you get, and I really am thankful for the experiences I gained in the past four years. Despite all of this, I think all of the bad has made me truly appreciate the good, and I could not be more excited for what the future holds moving forward.
The influence of
Super Metroid
Nintendo is known for its innovation when it comes to video games. Having some of the strongest intellectual properties when in the industry, there are characters that are well known like Mario, Zelda, and Metroid. Though they are all power houses in the industry, each had their humble beginnings, with Metroid having one of the most unique stories. The first Metroid game was released on the Nintendo Entertainment System. Metroid would go on to the gameboy with the same charm as the previous title, and then Super Metroid happened. Released in the U.S. in 1994 for the Super Nintendo with an unforgettable experience. The game portrays its atmosphere perfectly, with amazing environmental storytelling as well as every zone being as breathtaking and foriegn as the next. Then, there’s the original soundtrack for the game to tie the game into a pristine bow. The suspense created by moving from room ART BY VERONIKA MAYNARD
to room while never knowing what to expect, the dread engineered into each little intricate space, and the awe from the diversity of the planet is enough to breathes life into the game. What’s even more intriguing is that the player can do almost anything. The progression is open ended, allowing you to be able to take any possible route until you reach the final boss. Boss Fights are meticulously crafted to give the player a distinctive experience. The puzzles in the game are created naturally through cramped or sparse landscapes where only very few moments will actually require unlocking a specific ability. Super Metroid was so influential that it caused a burst in similar style games, spawning a whole new genre called Metroidvanias. The game is undeniably important and was a great example as to what can make a game phenomenal. A story told through pictures with an immersive world and controls that were intuitive. STORY BY JADEN CORDONERO
MAY 9, 2022 | THE LION’S TALE | OPINION | 6
Pressures of a traditional education after High School
STORY BY NELLY CAMPOS
degrees, we are only minimally educated, despite the moderately well paying jobs that can be accomplished through a 2 year education. Most post high school discussions are directed to 4 year education as we are taught to view most other options as taboo. For example, entrepreneurship? Only few can succeed, maye if you’re extremely lucky and talented you can be the next Mark Zuckerburg. Not to mention the non inclusive teaching systems and curriculums that have followed students since elementary school. Classrooms that either only cater to the neurotypical brain or one type of learning that ends up harming students in the long run. These same students go on to pursue a bachelors degree without feeling hopeful of doing well while find-
Movies, music, art, writing, there are so many ways for a story to be told, for meanings to get across. Meanings that are sometimes best not told directly, and should instead be shown, because sometimes people do not understand when they are told directly and indirect communication works best for them. Literature is one of the most complex and if done right can be one of the most impactful ways to share stories. Through its complexity, literature is able to delve into the nuances behind different problems and issues that people face. It can offer many perspectives and points of view, and can help to begin to explain differences in understanding since everyone is brought up differently. White people will most likely never be able to fully understand the hardships of people of color in America, but through reading literature written by minorities, they can begin to understand, and at the very least work towards becoming less insensitive and damaging to minority communities. Music and the arts can offer a new perspective through sharing emotion. Music that has recently impacted me has been Noize Mc’s latest album, Exit into City. In it, the singer Ivan Aleksandrovich Alekseyev reimagines poetry from the 1930’s from famous poets - such as Mandelstam - that have been exiled from the Soviet Union and then assassinated for their po-
DESIGN BY JOEMI CORDONERO
ing themselves with seemingly no other options. If we ever want to have a nation with citizens who can find a balance between success and personal interests, we need to start with the truth. A four year university education is not the only option for a successful future, and pushing that idea that it is, is only harming those with potential to go beyond average standards in other fields.
From the young age of five, many might be able to remember being asked, “So, what do you want to be when you grow up?” Before students can even properly do long division, they are forced to think about their plans for the next 20 years. For the next 13 years there will be career fairs, college pamphlets, and long winded lectures on the importance of a college education, all of these occurring even before freshman year. They are forced to spend their entire school careers choosing what to do for the rest of their lives. These questions soon change to, “So what college are you going to?” These detrimental education systems put in place are only continued oppression, as millions of students are pressured to pursue an education for an occupation they are influenced to spend the rest of their working careers in. They are guided into spending the rest of their lives making just enough to pay back that same education they were forced into, whether
Different forms people share impactful stories STORY BY VERONIKA MAYNARD
they enjoy the work or not. Even if they do not actually end up attending a university, the effect this can have on mental health is harmful enough. Although universities are not the only option, adolescents and youth are only educated on so many other options like: entering the military, subpar minimum wage jobs that are mainly meant as introductions into the workforce, or entrepreneurial pathways that only work for either those who already have a footway into that specific line of work, or those who are raised who are already financially satisfied. While the encouragement of continued education in a university is not inherently bad since it promotes higher level jobs and economic stimulation, it’s the excessive encouragement of this while discouraging other options. Lack of education on other options is partially why so many people end up in careers that they hate. Even when it comes to associates
ems. Some of the songs in the album are the poems word-for-word translated into rap, while some of the other songs try to tell an extended story based off of the poetry. This album was probably one of the most direct conversations about censorship, its impacts, and its results that I’ve ever heard. By using music to express the words of those long dead, Alekseyev shows how censorship leads to the corruption of the people and the death of a country. Films, much like books, have the power of sharing a perspective that you may not know or ever be able to experience. They share things by combining both music and pictures resulting in the ability to better translate emotion, to better share stories. I, as an able-bodied person, will never be able to understand someone with a disability. But through films like Coda, I can get closer to understanding, close enough to not inadvertently hurt someone. Throughout highschool, I’ve been changed many times, and have changed my understanding of the world many times, all due to the creative ways that people come up with to share their experiences. There is this elevation of depth in forms of communication that can pull more on emotions, on communication that pulls on the senses and forces you to look, to listen, to just pay attention.
MAY 9, 2022 | THE LION’S TALE | OPINION | 7
From one storyteller to another
STORY BY ELLIOTT WOODMANSEE-SIRESS Back when the COVID-19 Pandemic started, I found myself, like many others, scrolling away through TikTok either to keep up with the worldly chaos or to escape it. I had just downloaded the app but rarely used it until then. And while the algorithm was weeding out what I didn’t like to best build a page to my liking, they showed me one user which instantly captured my attention. A broadway star, actor and writer, Nicholas Podany. I’ve always wanted to be a writer, ever since I took a single creative writing class in the sixth grade. Something about the art just resonated with me, and for years
I lived between dreams stirring in my mind. And as someone with a knack for hyperfixiating on things, Podany and his work fell victim to my interest. Amongst several skits of his there were two series which carried the account: “Jasper” which follows the titular character getting caught up in a cult who worships his image - and “The Adventures of Benjamin and Oliver” - centered around two boys who wake up from their adult lives back in the second grade and learning to travel a multiverse of dreamscapes in the hope to return. Come later that year, Podany revealed the two series to be interconnected, and announced the accumulation of his work: LUCIDS. The six part YouTube series would follow Benjamin and Oliver hunting Jasper and his new friend Quinn down for a grieving mother. I fell in love with the show, the characters and the music, the editing and the story. All of it, all done by Podany alone, I loved it all. It was a show that really struck me personally, hit the right chords, leaving me rewatching for both fun and com-
fort. I actively binge the music, and have found solace with the characters he created. LUCIDS is like a monolith to me. The magic of it is something I, one day, aspire to recreate. I’ve been a writer for most of my life, and a storyteller the entirety of it, so this show became not just a hyperfixation, but also a saving grace, and an inspiration. I wrote an article on LUCIDS for The Lion’s Tale last year, and was given the opportunity to speak with Podany on his show. That moment was euphoric, and as someone who wants to be a writer and storyteller like Nicholas, it was bizarre in all the best ways. I kept thinking about being in his position, how one day some kid in who cares, whatever state may fall in love with my work, be brave enough to reach out, and get to meet me. Maybe one day. In light of darkness, he and many others were able to make something from it, and that gave me the energy to do the same. This year has been incredibly difficult for me, but in light of the darkness, I wrote. I wrote and wrote and wrote a whole 100 plus page short story
I’m still working on. I delved back into my creating, did a while AP Art portfolio, and started finding myself again. And I hope to continue finding myself, and to continue creating through all the days, however quiet or silent, however bright or dark they may be. “If we shadows have offended, think but this, and all is mended that you have by slumber’d here while these visions did appear. And this weak and idle theme, no more yielding but a dream, gentles, do not reprehend: if you pardon, we will mend… else the puck a liar call; so, good night uno you all. Give me your hands, if we be friends, and Robin shall restore amends.” LUCIDS kept me writing during the pandemic, and now nothing is going to stop me from dreaming.
The lasting impacts of the relationships you make in high school STORY BY KAIT PETERSON The relationships you make in high school can either be meaningful and could possibly last for a few years after the graduation date, or can essentially be absolutely meaningless. Some of the relationships that I had throughout the four years of my time at Oviedo High School were some of the biggest wastes of my time that could’ve been spent doing something entirely more useful and important. Although I wish that I could sit here and say lovely things about some of the people I was friends with or emotionally involved with, that’s just not the reality of high school relationships. They do not last 90% of the time and are usually the biggest causes of stress and pain. Most of these friendships and relationships were really just setbacks in my path through my education. If I had worried less about friends or relationships I can confidently say that I would’ve excelled in my studies significantly more. Now not every single relationship had this sort of influence on me, although I may not be friends or on talking terms with some of these people, they did have a positive impact on my life and how I have become as a person. Some of the friendships from my
senior year have shaped me into the person I will take with me to college. Which to me is very important, I have learned to not let people take my kindness for granted when I could’ve wholeheartedly been a cold and conniving person given the chance. I have learned to never let another person waste my time, and to never catch myself being vulnerable in the presence of those I thought I could trust. My opinion on, and advice for relationships in high school, if you are going to divulge your time to making friendships or being in a relationship, make sure that you are surrounding yourself with those who have similar goals and can help push you towards greatness and success. Rather than be part of the cause of your downfall or hither you from your educational path. At the end of the day you need to ask yourself if you will still have these temporary figures in your life in the next two years, five years or ten years. If not, there is no point in mourning the loss of a friendship, relationship, or acquaintances. Prioritize your relationship with yourself, your studies, and your future. As that is above anything else. DESIGN BY MIKAYLA PHILPOT
8 | FEATURES | THE LION’S TALE | MAY 9, 2022
1
The class of 2022: Neil Dash
4.76 | U.S. Air force academy
2
Nicole Sheltry
4.694 | fordham university
Major: Undecided
Major: Economics
biggest challenge in high school? Managing swimming and school just meant staying on top of everything and not wasting my time.
who is your biggest inspiration? Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez for her advocacy for those in need and her fearlessness.
favorite ohs moment? Going to states for both swimming and waterpolo were surreal experiences that I’ll remember forever. The feeling of your hard work paying off is amazing and the atmosphere at those competitions is amazing. The best way I can describe it is being extremely hype.
Something you’d change about high school? It took me too long to realize that everyone at Oviedo is so kind and I wish I wouldn’t have waited until senior year to branch out.
most streamed song? ‘6 foot 7 foot’ by Lil Wayne.
DESIGN BY HANNAH WARNNER
favorite song? ‘mad womnn’ by Taylor Swift. favorite ohs moment? Seeing the photos I took in freshman year printed in the yearbook.
3
Levi Strodel
4
Danielle Williams
5
Varsha Suresh
4.679 | northeastern university
4.657 | UNiversity of Florida
Major: Political science and a minor in Spanish
Major: Civil and environmental engineering
Major: Biology
favorite ohs staff member? My favorite staff member has been Mrs. Jenkins
who is your biggest inspiration? My family, friends, teammates, teachers, and sometimes strangers have contributed to inspire me a little bit each day.
4.68 | UNiversity of Florida
dream job? To work in international finance law. most streamed song? ‘B.O.B.’ by Outkast. favorite ohs moment? My favorite moment at OHS was senior skip day.
favorite ohs moment? I loved the school events where I can be loose and feel like a young teenager with my friends. What would you tell your younger self? That is it okay to stop things that no longer make you happy and to not fear that you will disappoint others or yourself if you do.
who is your role model? In all honesty, I don’t have one. I admire different qualities about the people around me and I try to better myself everyday. one thing you’d change about high school? High schools should offer more honors art preforming art classes... many kids, myself included stray away because it drags down our GPA. Song you have on repeat? ‘Less Than Zero’ by the Weeknd. favorite ohs moment? I loved our pep rallies and football games. They were really fun for my friends and I.
PHOTOS COURTESY OF AUDREY SREMBICKI, LEVI STRODEL, AND ELLIE WILLIAMS
MAY 9, 2022 | THE LION’S TALE | FEATURES | 9
6
Top ten seniors Katie Compton
4.638 | University of notre dame
6
Julia Davis
4.638 | University of Central florida
Major: Economics and global affairs
Major: Computer science
Celebrity crush? Timothee Chalamet
MOst Streamed song? In the past week, Suavemente (by Elvis Crespo), but not a consistent one over time
Who is your role model? My parents, as they have always supported me and I couldn’t be where I am today without them. What advice would you give to your younger self? Always work hard but at the end of the day as long as you tried your best you should be proud. Gas station order? Arizona green tea, sun chips and the cola Haribo gummy bears.
What is your coffee order? I only drink coffee at home- black but sometimes with a little milk. Dream dinner party? Sushi or Korean barbecue with friends who I don’t get to see very often.
6
Veronika Maynard
4.638 | savannah college of art and Design
9
Cadence Johnson
4.6367 | gap year -> university of tortonto
Major: Illustration
Major: Statistics
favorite art style? Impressionism
favorite book? I’m actually in the middle of it right now, but “A Little Life” by Hayna Yanagihara.
tv show you binge watch? Fresh Off the Block best energy drink? Not really an energy drink, but what I drink most consistently for energy: coffee. favorite food? Syrniki. Dream job? Children’s book illustrator teacher who impacted you the most? Mr. Langevin
song you know by heart? ‘Tirano’ by Kali Uchis Favorite place to shop? ‘Omg! Thift’ in Casselberry. one thing you would change about high school? Besides Covid - the obivous, honestly nothing. It hasn’t been the best four years of my life, but I can appreciate all the experiences I’ve learned throughout high school.
10
Holly Archer
4.636 | Cornell university
Major: Aerospace engineering Dream job? I hope to work in space exploration and be a part of projects that involve exoplanetary discovery. favorite ohs moment? Either winning a district championship for softball my freshman year or being voted “Born in the wrong generation”. Teacher who impacted you the most? Mr. Soos has helped me tremendously in my math and physics development. He always welcomes my questions and he truly wants his students to succeed.
*Chose not to have photo featured*
PHOTOS COURTESY OF KATIE COMPTON, AUDREY SREMBICKI, CADENCE JOHNSON, AND HOLLY ARCHER
DESIGN BY EMMA YOST
10 | OPINION | THE LION’S TALE | MAY 9, 2022
Top Tens of
“Party Rock Anthem” by LMFAO “Somebody That I Used To Know” by Gotye “Get Lucky” by Daft Punk “Happy” by Pharrell “Watch me (whip/nae nae)” by Silento “One Dance” by Drake “Despacito” by Luis Fonsi “Sicko Mode” by Travis Scott “Old Town Road” by Lil Nas X “Blinding Lights” by The Weeknd “drivers license” by Olivia Rodrigo
TOP 10 sINGLES
STORY BY MADI RUMMEL Olivia Rodrigo had everyone in their feelings singing her song “drivers license”. Whenever anyone needs a good cry all we have to do is hop in the car and turn on drivers license all the way up. These songs have all been a huge part of our lives and the music industry these past years. I’m so excited for what is yet to come.
TOP 10 MOVIES The Avengers Frozen The LEGO Movie Star Wars: The Force Awakens Fantastic Beasts and Where To Find Them It: Chapter One Avengers: Infinity War Parasite Sonic The Hedgehog 2021 Dune
STORY BY ELLIOTT WOODMANSEE Acting as an accumulation of 10 years of film, Avengers: Infinity War saw many fans favorite heroes team up with other corners of the MCU. This movie isn’t just that, it’s also an event. While carefully collecting several characters into one cohesive story and introducing the world to a new, complex villain, Infinity War also set the stage for a new realm of cinema and storytelling, one which has already begun to change the way we tell our films, all in the snap of a finger.
Minecraft Grand Theft Auto V Five Nights At Freddy’s Undertale Pokemon Go The Legend of Zelda: Breath of The Wild Super Smash Bros. Ultimate Kingdom Hearts III Among Us Inscryption
STORY BY ERIC ESQUIVEL In 2015 Tom Brady won his 4th super bowl. After that he won 3 more super bowls, being named super bowl MVP to 3 of those in 2015, 2017, and 2020. He also won 2 league MVPS 1 in 2010 and the other in 2017.
TOP 10 VIDEO GAMES
STORY BY ELLIOTT WOODMANSEE Breaking away from the script of other Zelda titles, The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild reinvents the many fantasy elements of games prior, reintroducing fans to a brand new, wide open world of ruins, overrun nature and ancient magic. Set a century after Hyrule’s fall, an awakened Link must travel the land to free the spirits of his old friends and free Hyrule from Calamity Ganon’s grasp. The game set a new standard for the Zelda franchise, throwing players into a new generation of exploration and adventure.
TOP 10 ATHLETES
Tom Brady Lebron James Kobe Bryant Mike Trout Cristian Ronaldo Simone Biles Serena Williams Michael Phelps Lionel Messi Stephen Curry
TOP 10 MOMENTS Chris Rock Oscars slap Kanye and Taylor VMAs incident James Charles sugar bear hair drama Trump banned from Twitter Kim K and Pete relationship The death of Vine Rise of TikTok Slime becomes a trend Infinity War trailer release Jojo Siwa gets a haircut
DESIGN BY VERONIKA MAYNARD
STORY BY EMMA YOST Pop culture is seemingly a big part of many of our lives. However, when a slap occurs at Hollywood’s biggest night, we have to rank it as our top pop culture moment of the decade. Kanye West interrupting Taylor Swift’s speech at the VMA awards comes in at a close second, with the James Charles and Tati sugar bear hair drama just trailing behind.
PHOTOS BY GAGE SKIDMORE
MAY 9, 2022 | THE LION’S TALE | OPINION | 11
the decade
TOP TEN TRENDS subculture resurface 90’s nostalgia streetwear business casual high waisted jeans cropped fashion sneakers oversized ath-leisure wear boho chic
STORY BY VERONIKA MAYNARD One of the biggest trends of the past decade was the resurgence of subcultures, and subcultures becoming more mainstream. This has helped lead to greater diversity within said subcultures, and many people who may have been ostracized before have become more accepted now. There has also been an increase in the number of subcultures over the past decade, which has led to an overall diversification of fashion, placing it as number one on the trend list.
PHOTOS BY AUDREY STREMBICKI
Stranger Things Breaking Bad BoJack Horseman Euphoria You Gravity Falls Steven Universe Rick and Morty Attack on Titan Hannibal
STORY BY JADEN CORDONERO Tom Holland, who has been acting since he was twelve years old in major productions like Billy Elliot and The Impossible, accomplished a sudden major rise to fame due to starring in several huge films but is overall most notable for his recurring role in Marvel’s cinematic universe as Spider-Man.
TOP 10 series
TOP 10 ACTORS
TOP 10 TEACHERS
STORY BY AUDREY CHOATE When Stranger Things released on Netflix in 2016, it immediately became a worldwide phenomenon. It remains a favorite of OHS students years after its initial release-- it’s hard to find a student that hasn’t at least heard of the show. It secures the #1 spot on this list due to its overwhelming popularity and the overall student consensus. Even if one does not care for the show, it has definitely served as an influential staple of television in the past ten years.
Tom Holland Zendaya Timothee Chalamet Scarlett Johanson Will Smith Bryan Cranston John Cena Emma Waston Margot Robbie 1Viola Davis
PHOTOS BY GAGE SKIDMORE
Christopher Capp Art Woodruff Will Furiosi Benjamin Langevin Skylar Rush Sheri Brinkman Kate Kameraad Kimberly Finnegan Kathy Savage Kimberly McKernan
STORY BY EMMA YOST At Oviedo High School, teachers are part of what makes the year so special. We’ve picked a few of our favorites; from science teachers to yearbook advisors. Our top ten teachers include: Mr. Capp, Mr. Woodruff, Mr. Furiosi, Mr. Langevin, Mr. Rush, Mrs. Brinkman, Mrs. Kameraad, Mrs. Finnegan, Ms. Savage, and Mrs. McKernan. Nominated by students, these teachers have dedicated themselves to helping students reach their highest potential, and their impact on student’s lives is insurmountable. PHOTOS BY DIEGO LARA
STORY BY AUDREY CHOATE Chick-fil-a was voted the number one restaurant because of their quality food and welcoming environment. It is also known to have the best chicken in town. The employees are super patient and never fail to brighten your day with their smile.
TOP 10 PLACES TO EAT
Chick-fil-a McDonald’s Chipotle Ale House 1000 Degrees The Town House Steak n’ Shake Subway Kyoto Agave Azul
DESIGN BY VERONIKA MAYNARD
ROARBOARD ARBOARD
12 | OPINION | THE LION’S TALE | MAY 9, 2022
PHOTOS BY: AUDREY STREMBICKI, ESTHER GUEVARA, MACKENZIE HOLMES, DANIELLE STEIN
Girl’s beach volleyball wraps up first season STORY BY HUNTER FUEHRER
BASEBALL
STORY BY ERIC ESQUIVEL The Oviedo Varsity Baseball team is 15-11 and are in the playoffs. On 5/10 the Lions with the help from Xavier Lopez will be facing Bartram Trails who is 19-8.
GIRL’S SOFTBALL
STORY BY VINCENT CROOK
The Oviedo Highschool Varsity Softball team ended their season with a disappointing 7-15 season. Fortunately for the team, next year they are expected to have several upcoming players to hopefully push them into having a successful season.
BOY’S LACROSSE
STORY BY HUNTER FUEHRER
Oviedo’s boys lacrosse team finished the season 11-9 with a loss in the state playoffs to Lake Mary. Lake Mary is ranked 7th in Florida and 42nd in the nation. Lake Mary also finished 19-3 with a loss to Ponte Vedra in the state championship.
GIRL’S LACROSSE
STORY BY HUNTER FEUHRER The Girls Lacrosse team had a great season finishing 17-5 and making a run to the Regional semifinals where their season was ended abruptly by Bartram Trail with a score of 22-3. Bartram Trail is ranked 5th in the nation this season and are 20-3. Oviedo also suffered a defeat against
Oviedo’s Girls Varsity Beach Volleyball finished the season 9-2. The Girls only two losses came against Oviedo’s home town rivals, the Hagerty Huskies, first late in the season in a nondistrict match and then again in the district fi nals. Hagerty has since gone onto states extending their undefeated season until they lost in the semifi nals. Some of the Girls notable wins came over Lake Mary in a 4-1 win. Lake Mary had gone on to make states but lost the first round of the state tournament to Orangewood Chris-tian. This however was an incredible sea-son for the Lions. When asked about the season Senior Caroline Przystup said that… “This season our team had so much heart and intention. I couldn’t be more proud of us with how respectable the girls were and how much they wanted to improve all the time, especially with so many underclassmen on the team. Do I wish we could be at states right now and wish we could’ve done more, yes but I think that is always an afterthought for any kind of competition you experienced. However, I’m really proud of what we gave and how much we grew this season.”
and beach volleyball being regulated for girls Senior Caroline Przystup said when asked to compare the too stated… “This was the first year that beach vb was an FHSAA regulated sport, however the last 3 years were not! Prior to this season beach was a time when you could train in the off season and develop the skills we need to use as indoor players. If you can do a certain skill in the sand, it makes it a lot easier to do that same skill during indoor volleyball season. So the comparative would be that it is a nice time of pressure off and to train indoors in a new, fun environment. Now that it’s a regulated sport, we take the competition a little further. It’s not just training, but with an intent to win even more than just training”
This year was different for the sport of beach volleyball in the state of Florida. This was the first year that girls beach volleyball was recognized by the Florida High School Athletic Association (FHSAA) as a regulated sport. With both indoor
BEACH VOLLEYBALL
STORY BY HUNTER FEUHRER The Oviedo Highschool Beach Volleyball team ended off their season with a 9-1 record, their only regular season loss coming against Hagerty, with a score of 1-4.
BOYS VOLLEYBALL
STORY BY HUNTER FEUHRER
Oviedo Varsity Boys Volleyball finished their 2022 season 5-12. They finished the season with a 3-0 loss to Winter Springs the Districts Quarter Finals. Some of the boys notable wins were against home town rivals, the Hagerty Huskies, on their senior night with a score of 3 sets to 1. Another one came against Seminole in a 3-0 sweep.
WATER POLO
STORY BY ERIC ESQUIVEL Oviedo’s Boys Varsity Water Polo finished the season 14-3. The boys final game was in the state semifinals against number 1 ranked Belen Jesuit which ended in a 16-14 loss. Belen Jesuits would go onto win the state title over 2nd ranked Dr. Phillips. However, the boys did win districts.
DESIGN BY VINCENT CROOK
MAY 9, 2022 | THE LION’S TALE | SPORTS | 13
Sit down with AD Darty on OHS sport's year STORY BY RILEY SANDERSON Jennifer Darty has been the athletic director at OHS for the past 5 years, and in that time she has made a significant mark by overseeing the school’s 32 athletic programs. Her role as the athletic director consists of many responsibilities including scheduling, checking athlete eligibility, and managing coaches all while making sure the school is following FHSAA rules. This year, Oviedo athletics have gone through several changes in terms of repercussions from the COVID-19 pandemic. For example, the mask mandates have been lifted and sports teams have opportunities to have longer seasons. “The FHSAA and Seminole County did a nice job of setting up guidelines for a safe return to athletic activities to get us to the point we are at now,” said Darty, “...I’ve loved seeing our students back in
attendance at our athletic events supporting their peers.” Along with the consequences of COVID-19, Jen Darty has also had to face struggles that come with being the director of such a large athletic program. “As an athletic director, there are multiple challenges that can arise daily whether it be from a compliance standpoint, scheduling conflict, sportsmanship issue, or difference of opinions,” said Darty, “I think in any job there are challenges that arise and with each challenge, there is an opportunity to learn, grow, and improve in what we are doing.” Looking back at the 2021 Fall and Winter season, OHS athletics has represented the school well at many district, regional, conference, and state championships. Across the variety of sports pro-
TOP 10 Athletes of the
Year
grams at Oviedo, teams have competed in four district championships and two conference championships. An Oviedo student athlete has also been named to the FHSAA Florida Dairy Farmers Academic All-State Team for excelling in academics and athletics with a scholarship. In swimming and diving alone, there have been two individual state champions as well as a relay state champion. According to Darty, the senior athletes are what make Oviedo’s athletic success possible. “The Class of 2022 is very talented and have proven to be great leaders within our athletic programs,” said Darty. The 25 student athletes who have committed to play collegiate sports at the next level consist of six volleyball players, five baseball players, four soc-
Honorable Mentions
1. Vincenzo Micciche
2. Alex Saunders
Micciche is a junior and foriegn exchange student at Oviedo from Italy. He plays for both the water polo team and the swim & dive team. He has more than eight years of experince in the water which helped the team out exponentially this year. In waterpolo he led the team with multiple goals throughout the season with scoring more than 30+ points. He was awarded First team All-Conference this season.
Saunders is both a football, track and field, and basketball athlete. Saunders is committed to the university of South Dakota to play football as a wide recevier. He has made All-Conference team, Cure Classic AllStar game, All-State HM,and Orlando Sentinel All-Area team this year. Saunders was also one of five captains that led the football team this year.
4. Dawson Barr Barr is apart of the basketball team here and isn’t just one of the best on the court but off the court aswell. As just a junior he has above a 4.0 GPA. He averages about 14.4 points per game. Barr has made 70+ three-pointers, and multiple blocks/rebounds in his career and Oviedo. DESIGN BY MACKENZIE HOLMES
cer players, four swimmers, two lacrosse players, two football players, a softball player, and a rifle team member. “We are so proud of what they have done here at Oviedo High School but can’t wait to watch them succeed at the next level,” said Darty, “I hope that we can produce champions in their sport and in the classroom.” As Oviedo is nearing the end of its Spring athletic season, the athletic department plans to end the year right by celebrating all of the student athletes’ academic and athletic work. “My goals for the remainder of the 2021-2022 school year would be to have our spring sports finish strong athletically and academically,” said Darty, “It is always a goal for OHS to finish at the top of the Seminole Athletic Conference standings, FHSAA All-Sport standings, and FHSAA All-Academic standings.”
Eleanor Duffy -Swim and Dive, Water Polo Carly O’Donnell-Lacrosse Andrew Christensen-Swim and Dive, Water Polo Neil Dash- Swim and Dive, Water Polo Raven Wrobleski- Volleyball, Beach Volleyball
3. Riley Finnegan
Finnegan competes in both our weightlifitng and our lacrosse team and has been a big obstacle for our opponents. She has committed to Gannon university to contiune her acedemic and lacrosse career. She has been seleced for multiple teams including All-Star game and even going on to States for weightlifitng.
5. Ryan Blount Blount is a sophomore on the basketball team and is one of the many young prospects around the state. He has averaged 14.6 points per game with 80+ three-poiners scored. He has made 16U first team, 16U All-Tournament team, 2nd team All-County by the SAC (seminole athletic conference) and has various amount of shout-outs from top propects as “top shooter of the class of 24.’ “
14 | AD | THE LION’S TALE | APRIL 17 , 2022
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MAY 9, 2022 | THE LION’S TALE | NEWS | 15
AWARD TIME: Senior, Hayley Prete, recieving her Lundy.
Seniors receive awards for both talents and laughs at the Lundies STORY BY MIKAYLA PHILPOT
PHOTO BY DANIELLE STEIN PHOTO BY DANIELLE STEIN
FLEXING: Senior, Kenneth Phynn, flexing his arms after recieving the ‘Biggest Gym Rat’ Lundy.
Each year, seniors participate in many different fun events leading up to their graduation. One of these events is the Lundies, an award ceremony where seniors receive “most likely to” type awards based on the votes from the graduating class. Winning a Lundy can help showcase and validate students’ passion and hard work on something they love. “I feel great [about winning the ‘Most Likely to Win an Oscar’ Lundy] and it pushes me even more to further pursue acting as a career,” said senior Cameron Carter. As graduation grows closer and students are deciding what they want to do with their lives, winning a Lundy can encourage them as they pursue their passions into adulthood. “[Winning this Lundy] makes me think that if enough people voted for me…then imagine what I could do outside of high school,” said Carter. Oftentimes students win Lundies by finding one that they fit the description of and campaigning for it - either because it’s
a reflection of something they’re passionate about, or simply for the pure hilarity of it. “My classmates have handfuls of photos of me snoozing away in class,” said senior Brianna Bibona, who won the ‘Most Likely to Fall Asleep in Class’ Lundy. “I honestly just thought it would be hilarious to campaign for it.” However, these awards are not always campaigned for or expected. “I didn’t run for any awards at all,” said senior Neil Dash, valedictorian and winner of the ‘Most Likely to Die in The Hunger Games’ Lundy. “So the fact that I won this one out of all of them was funny.” Whether these awards are campaigned for or unexpectedly received, they leave a lasting memory as students prepare to exit high school and enter the real world. They can offer students some final words of encouragement or remind them of the value of humor.
Class of ‘22 recieves senior awards STORY BY ALEXIS SHAUGHNESSY This year’s senior awards night took seniors who won a scholarship or award place on April 25th, 2022 in the auditorium at the event. She won the impressive Kuiat 6:00 p.m. In order to attend the awards per scholarship from Seminole County. “I had worked really hard on my apnight, seniors needed to receive an invitation. This is just one of many different plication and it felt gratifying to have won special senior events that occur each year it,” said Conte. “The scholarship I won was for STEM and winat Oviedo High ning it made me feel School (OHS). like I had chosen the Several grad“I had worked really hard right path.” uating seniors reon my application and it Senior Amina ceived a variety of Hasan, president of different special felt gratifying to have won the pre med club and unique awards it. The scholarship I won and vice president that reflected their was for STEM and winning of HOSA, also won intelligence over it made me feel like I had student leader of the past couple of chosen the right path.” the year and a PTSA years. scholarship. Along with “I knew student the senior awards Cassidy Conte leader of the year night, there were was coming, but I also other fun sewasn’t sure if I got nior activities that the PTSA one,” said occurred throughHasan. “I felt very exout the 2021-2022 school year. These events included the cited and proud of myself for it.” This was a very special night for senior picnic, breakfast, Lundies, senior prom, grad bash, senior skip day, visit- all the seniors who attended, as all of ing their old elementary school friends their hard work over the course of their and teachers, senior night for a variety of high school careers was recognized by school sports and clubs, and many more. their teachers. It was one last enjoyable These activities allow the seniors to have school event before their final farewell at a special last year of public school before the graduation ceremony. sadly going their separate ways to college. Senior Cassidy Conte was one of many
PHOTO BY DANIELLE STEIN
AWARDS ACROSS THE BOARD: Seniors lining up across the stage, holding up the awards they recieved during the senior award ceremony.
PHOTO BY DANIELLE STEIN
HANDSHAKING: A student shaking a teacher’s hand after recieving her award.
DESIGN BY MIKAYLA PHILPOT
16 | FEATURES | THE LION’S TALE | MAY 9 , 2022
: S R O I SEN CLOCKING OUT
WROR-TV STORY BY ASHLEE ROSS
Many students participate in a plethora of classes, clubs or activities throughout high school. For seniors Brianna Bibona and William Deem, it was WROR-TV, the TV production class at Oviedo High School (OHS) that produces the school’s daily news. WROR-TV has taught them greatly beneficial skills, beginning their journey in college. Whether that be standing up for themselves, or pushing for stories that deserve to be talked about. “I will forever push for the best, whatever that may be, and let others know when something needs to change.” said Brianna Bibona, the Executive Producer of WRORTV. Over the years, WROR-TV has taught these students to be able to guide their peers in the direction they think is best, while still doing what is best for them. “A good story can come from anywhere, with some good writing & a passion to bring light on a particular subject you want to see talked about.” said William Deem, reporter and editor of WROR-TV. In the grand scheme of things, WRORTV is like a job for these students. They come to their class ready to work and produce broadcasts, so students at OHS can be informed daily about important upcoming events. Although these seniors may not choose a career in TV production, these skills can
be used in almost any career they choose. “I don’t plan on pursuing TV production as a full-time career, but the skills I’ve obtained from WROR-TV will help me with my acting career & a YouTube channel if I feel like doing it as a hobby.” said Deem. Deem is now able to bring his confidence on-screen into his future, whether that be a leisure activity or his actual career. “I definitely see creating videos whether that be montages or advertisements for brands and people in my future. I could also definitely see myself being a manager of some kind as I’ve loved my role as Executive Producer.” said Bibona. WROR-TV has opened up a pathway for Bibona, allowing her to discover what she wants to do career-wise, giving her experience and knowledge that she otherwise wouldn’t have acquired and plans to continue her journey at the University of Central Florida, this upcoming fall. These seniors have created amazing memories during their time with WRORTV such as their time in Long Beach, California, at the Student Television Network convention. They were able to visit the Warner Bros. Studio Tour, as well as create some amazing content. These students have learned so much throughout their time on the staff of WROR-TV, and will continue to grow wherever their future takes them.
. . . ff ing O
Sign
PHOTO BY DANIELLE STEIN
MEET THE DRUM MAJORS STORY BY PENELOPE BANKS
PHOTO BY DANIELLE STEIN
ROAR ON: Quentin Adkins, left, Katie Compton, top right, and Katerina Emmert, bottom right, have been captured in their natraul from as drum majors.
DESIGN BY ASHLEE ROSS AND PENELOPE BANKS
If there’s one thing everyone can agree on, it’s school events and clubs have a way of creating bonds and friendships. Here at Oviedo our school band is especially close as they work closely to create something amazing. Not only have they worked together to create music, but they’ve also taken the time to teach each other throughout the years. From building friendships, life skills, finding ways to apply these newfound skills in their everyday lives, and navigating their way through the adventures of highschool together. Communication is absolutely key within any relationship, and these friends have clearly expressed that. “I have learned how to communicate with each other and be able to understand how the other is feeling. Another thing I have learned through our friendship is how to preserve through challenging times and to always keep a positive outlook.” said, Senior, Katarina Emmert. Not only have they gained incredible communication and leadership skills, but they’ve also learned to create a certain balance of trying their best but not bring-
ing themselves down. “As a whole I think we have learned how to bounce back from setbacks or difficult situations and come to practice the next day ready to work even harder.” said Senior, Katie Compton. Throughout the past 4 years, these students have had to work as a team to not only preserve and motivate themselves, but each other as well. “As a whole we have learned how to tackle problems and persevere through tough times”. said Senior, Quentin Adkins. Though it is amazing to have those leadership skills, Compton believes that another key part in leadership is being able to listen to your team for a better understanding. “I’ve also learned the importance of knowing when to speak up and when to lend a listening ear.” said Compton These drum majors came into this at the beginning of their high school careers believing they were simply following a passion of theirs. Unexpectedly they gained beautiful friendships, and built an abundance of key traits that go into building and working within a team.
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18 | FEATURES | THE LION’S TALE | MAY 9, 2022
Yearbook editors reflect on the 2021-2022 Oviedian Yearbook STORY BY AUDREY CHOATE The Oviedo High School (OHS) yearbook staff have finished the 2021-2022 edition of the Oviedian. Throughout the production of the yearbook, there have been many hardships, but also equally as many fun and interesting moments and lessons. This yearbook is distinct from previous years’ due to its theme, production, and overall design. “My favorite part of this yearbook was definitely the color palette,” said senior and yearbook editor-in-chief Ella Pishko. “I feel like it matched the theme, ‘We Know You Know.’ The theme essentially is saying that we know that the students know what makes Oviedo itself.” “It was really difficult keeping up with the deadlines a lot of the time this year, but we still had a lot of fun working on the book together,” said senior and art director Fatima Almousawi. “We spent a lot of time working on the book after school and making sure not just that everything’s done, but that it looks good too.” “I really enjoy creating something that the students at Oviedo can keep for the rest of their lives to remind them of their time here,” said senior and editor Kendall Gallagher. Each of the yearbook editors works hard during the school year, but they often go unrecognized until the end. “I would say that out of my four years here, this is the best book we have made,” said senior and editor Ainsley Compher. “I think the overall message of the book and the design elements it has beats ev-
DESIGN BY AUDREY CHOATE
ery other book we have made in my entire high school career.” “I liked how we used large pictures that covered the whole spread versus the smaller dominant pictures we have used in the past,” said senior and editor Lauren Claydon. “The initial creation process happened when we got together at school one day and talked about our ideas and mixed them together to create the book.” “When it is compared to last year’s book, this yearbook is the polar opposite. Last year we were really focused on using typography as a design element, and we focused on having lots of really good writing,” said Pishko. “This year, we mostly focused on photos, illustrations, and colors to emphasize a completely different look for the yearbook. We still have student stories covered in this book, but we tried to create a more artsy theme overall.” It is clear that the editors have worked together this year to create a unique and memorable yearbook that will serve as a reminder of students’ time at OHS for years to come.
WE KNOW YOU KNOW: Yearbook staff celebrates the finished book.
PHOTO BY OHS PUBLICATIONS
“We know that the students know what makes Oviedo itself.” -Ella Pishko
PHOTO BY DANIELLE STEIN
MAY 9, 2022 | THE LION’S TALE | ADS | 19
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20 | ENTERTAINMENT | THE LION’S TALE | MAY 9, 2022
“Multiverse of Madness” lives up to name, but not to hype STORY BY MERRICK DICAROLIS PHOTO CREDIT: MARVEL STUDIOS
Marvel’s newest film Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness provides an interesting and different entry into the ever expanding Marvel Cinamatic Universe. Director Sam Raimi is best know for his work on the original Spider-Man
Triliogy and horror movies such as The Evil Dead and Drag Me to Hell. While directing, Raimi decides to throw out the MCU handbook and make the most insane horror mind bending creative Marvel film we’ve ever seen. The real question is does it all mesh to form a great movie? And the answer sadly is no. While Raimi has really good ideas while directing he also writes one of the worst scripts in MCU history. The dialogue is very reminiscent of the Tobey Maguire Spider-Man films which may have worked for Raimi then but fail him now. The movie is trying to be the MCU’s first horror film while also trying to use the same quippy dialogue from other Marvel films and it just does not work. Where the script fails the action and imagery of the film thrive. Multiverse of Madness contains some of the most gripping and creative action scenes made in any movie ever. Danny Elfman’s score was also incredible and was embraced heavily in one of my favorite fight scenes of all time. Another great aspect of the film was how gruesome and terrifying the film really was. Raimi really didn’t have kids in mind when directing this one and thats ok, but you can’t make
a movie for adults while writing a script for children, you can’t pop a mans skull and make a Spider-Man poop joke in the same movie, it just doesn’t really work. Trailers and tv spots also ruin a lot of the movies biggest reveals like the introduction of the mysterious Illumanati and Sinister Strange and even the villain of the story Wanda Maximoff. The actors did their best to save the script but even A plus actors like Elizabeth Olsen and Benadict Cumberbatch couldn’t save these extra hockie lines. Olsen was great as always portraying a beaten and broken Wanda Maximof and Cumberbatch was solid as well. Xochitl Gomez plays a young girl named American Chavez who has the ability to travel the multiverse. Her power draws in Wanda who’s trying to find a universe where she can be with her children Tommy and Billy. As Wanda chases Chavez, Strange is tasked to protect her and her power from Wanda, which sends them on a crazy goose chase through the Multiverse. In the end Wanda realizes what she’s become with a little help from Chavez her sons and even herself and decides to do whats right, destroying the Scarlet Witch’s throne and herself in the process. Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of
Madness doesn’t really feel like a “Doctor Strange” movie, it doesn’t even feel like a sequel to the original, It’s more like a reaction to Wandavision then a sequel to any movie. At it’s core, Multiverse of Madness is a movie with great ideas that aren’t always executed perfectly. It’s heavily flawed but still an enjoyable watch, if you love beautifully shot movies with epic fight scenes then you’ll probably end up having a good time with this one.
“Moon Knight” shines a positive light on Dissociative Identity Disorder STORY BY ELLIOTT WOODMANSEE-SIRESS PHOTO CREDIT: MARVEL STUDIOS
Acting as Marvel’s most recent Disney+ series, Moon Knight introduces fans to the character of Marc Spector, fist of Khonshu and protector of the travelers of the night. Based on titular comics, Moon Knight acts as Marvel’s prominent Jewish and Egyptian-centric superhero, fighting crime in all white and under the pale moonlight. But there is one thing about Marc that separates him from many other caped-crusaders and masked vigilantes. His Dissociative Identity Disorder. Once referred to and unfortunately still commonly known as “Multi-Personality Disorder” or “Split-Personality Disorder”, DID is a severe form of dissociation and a mental health disorder where one develops two or more separate personalities to better cope and handle trauma. The disorder develops in young children who experience some mentally damaging event or abuse which they alone can not handle, and leads to the “creation” of at least two distinct personality states. The world of DID is a vastly debated but overall interesting and complex place, one which Moon Knight explores quite well when compared to far more damaging pieces of media, such as 2016’s Split, which many in the DID com-
munity saw as harmful towards the image of the disorder. Films like Split depict those with DID, or “Systems”, as violent and animalistic, capable of murder and other abusive crimes, while also painting the disorder as a superhuman ability, such as with the character of “The Beast”, who is an alter (an alternate identity) based off the animals Kevin - the Host (or “main” alter) - works with, who can climb walls, gallop and bend metal. Moon Knight, however, treats the disorder with much more care, accurately depicting several aspects of life with DID. Marc Spector lives in a known system of only two, him and another alter
DESIGN BY ELLIOTT WOODMANSEE-SIRESS
named Steven Grant, who we are actually introduced to first in the show. First established as a thriller meets mystery, there are moments where Steven blacks out and loses track of time when not fronting (actively controlling the body). Steven and Marc fight both verbally and for control of the body, but also work together, and as the show goes on, better pass control between them as they learn to trust each other. Their relationship is the heart of the series, and seeing the System get healthier is not only heartwarming, but also the positive representation needed to best show what life with DID is really like, minus the
Egyptian gods and superpowers. “I learned a lot, and I think everyone is going to learn a lot through the journey of the show about DID,” show’s director Mohamed Diab said in an interview with Variety. “But I still would say that, as respectful as we were, this is not an accurate depiction of DID. We are in a supernatural world, and sometimes we over-dramatize stuff.” Moon Knight is still a Marvel show, and for the sake of storytelling does drop the ball on some things, such as Marc and Steven’s ability to communicate via mirrors, which is not something real life Systems can do. It’s not perfect, but it’s a step in the right direction. It is clear that much care and consideration was put into the show, but only those with the disorder, and the many Systems out there, public or not, can have a final say on whether Moon Knight lives up to its promises and hopes.