Volume 17 Issue 4 May 2019

Sandra Day O’Connor High School

25250 N. 35th Ave. Phoenix, AZ

Volume 17. Issue 3. May 2019

thetalonohs.com

Class of

‘19 Pages 1-10

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May 2019

Senior Co

ic happens, no one really knows about it.

First off, all those Disney Everyone always says that original movies and 2000’s “high school is the best four teen series did nothing to years” of your life. In the prepare me for the actual nicest way possible, high experience of going through school was not the best four high school (‘High School years of my life.

Musical’ and ‘Ned’s DeThe experiences were subpar- I’m thankful I don’t Guide’, I’m looking at you). have to go to another school There were no “kumbaya dance again- and to be honwe’re-all-in-this-together” est, there’s a lot of kids that moments, no blatant “pop- I’m glad I never knew. ular kid goes after nerdy kid But what made it worth tropes”, and not everyone it was the people and the actually knows who you are memories they gave me. or what your name even is, Yeah, I fell out with some of regardless of your “popu- them but I never regretted larity” status. Subtlety is my time with them. Having an art these days- ones that a lot of friends from a sinteenagers have mastered- so gular type of group, to put even if something dramat- it simply, isn’t what makes

high school great; what makes high school great is the people you choose to spend it with.

My friends are my found family and I’m lucky enough to have bonded with them in the way I have.

Their positivity is the reason I managed to survive high school this long with as much sanity as I have now. I don’t have that many friends here, I admit, but they’re enough. We’ve gone through so much together and as sappy as it is, they’re the reasons why I am the person I am today.

Will I miss high school as a concept? Nope, but will I miss the kind people I’ve met? Absolutely.

everything.

I joined so many clubs that every day after school I had a club and sometimes two to go to. I met so many people and the really crazy thing is I never stopped doing everything. I can look at myself now knowing that as a senior, I run all those clubs I joined all those years ago.

If you want to do what I did go for it. I had so much fun and I really loved it but I put so much pressure on myself to do everything and sometimes I put a little too much of myself into everything I did to the point where maybe I lost a little of

the same drastic step that I did-- don’t. Don’t push yourself to change or to be something that you aren’t.

I used let every little thing get to me and it really destroyed me to the

By AUDREY SERRANO

Copy Chief

By EMILY MAI

I remember as a freshman not knowing what I wanted to do, who I really was, or honestly if I even wanted to accept that my life was moving on from junior high.

It was a brand new chapter of my life that like it or not I had to embrace.

I was this really quiet introverted ball of anxiety and I decided for myself that instead of letting myself hold me back from this next step I wanted to step into it wholeheartedly. I decided that when I looked back on these four years I didn’t want to have any lingering regrets; I wanted to If clubs aren’t your thing or have fun and try just about if you aren’t ready to take psyche.

By SADRAC RAINEY A legacy is the only physical thing to belong to one’s I’ve written this piece to self that yet anyone can iterate a simple point, one possess, as it can be anythat might not be on ev- thing for anyone. Playing eryone’s mind and one that sports, stamps on a passmight disappoint. The for- port, or being held in conmer is understandable, the tempt of court, anything latter an unfavored view- you do may last longer than point, If you believe intro- you and may as well become your sponsor, an author for notony, to read the passage the tales never written in for a minute and to notice it ink, or set in stone, but forconsciously, yet if you still ever remembered for homebelieve it an oddity I appre- grown aesthetic, and nostalciate your honesty. gic ethic.

This topic may seem a bit And so by this logic, I chaotic, reason being I’m raise my hand to acknowlin chronic lack of logic, so edge the fact being, that this please excuse me for the never used to apply to me, hard leaning views of my yet suddenly now the effect

College: Arizona State University Major: Political Science

missing some pieces when I built myself up again. High school is important I can’t tell you otherwise but what you do now should build you up not break you down.

These years are memorable but they aren’t the years the years that get to decide what kind of person you are.

College: Arizona State University Major: Journalism & Mass

crashes into me like a freight train off its rails, sometimes towards well-being, but I don’t mean to be misconstrued, mental health is important, the weight of that situation alone is dire, but here comes a runaway tire Before the reignition of my mind’s cognition, I wouldn’t have believed, because to believe, is to experience, hands on, that’s how you remember, and when you lose yourself, you forget, and dismember the thoughts like dexter, and in realisation when you turn the key of your heart again, you forgot you bought a new one.

Communications

College: Glendale Community College Major: Undecided

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olumns into my freshman year with and frankly I’m happier without them. I learned that you will lose people along the way; every person comes into your life with a purpose and once that purpose is served they leave.

My last two years of high school I felt like the woman I was trying to become was felt prisoner to others happiness and along the way I forgot to prioritize my own wellbeing. I struggled with

College: Washington State University

Major: Political Science Pre- Law

By NIKKI HAZELETT

Editor-in-Chief

I learned more about myself in these past four years than I could ever imagine.

I experienced heartbreak, anxiety, pure bliss, etc. Every emotion possible, I felt.

High school has brought me to the point in my life where I am comfortable to

leap into the “adult” world and make my own doctors appointments without the help of my mom.

I wouldn’t say these four years have been perfect, but it was each imperfect moment and every ridiculous story that made it all bearable. I’m not friends with half of the people I walked

comfortable in my own skin.

I spent most of my high school years worrying more about how my peers would perceive me than my own health. The biggest lesson I learned is that nobody cares about your imperfections.

Students are too consumed with worrying about themselves, that they don’t even notice the acne or bad hair day you’re having.

It wasn’t just OHS that helped me realize more, it was every “coming of age” when I entered. I have made friends and lost them too, and ultimately I met my two best friends who are my future roommates. All things considered, I would gladly take the struggle of high school if it meant having the friends I have now, but that’s not the case for everyone.

Whether you’re a senior or a freshman, it’s okay if you are excited to leave and never look back on the last day of school. It’s okay to not be in love with the spirit days or football games. It’s okay if you have more anxiety than fun at school dances. It’s okay to know your limits and not let your high

thing we do as high school-

variety of ailments; it’s our jobs to be more compassionate towards people. You are helped develop who I am to- not walking in others shoes, day. But looking back at the you can never assume that past few years, I am incred- just because they are smilibly grateful for each friend I’ve made and their impact a little love and happiness on my life. And shout out to doesn’t take any extra effort all the best friends I made and won’t kill you. my senior year, if only we In the end, high school is had found each other years exactly what you make it. ago.

Involve yourself in every club that seems remotely it was my junior and senior interesting, or do the bare year that truly changed me. minimum till you graduate.

Sophomore year was my Don’t let the opinions of most academically challeng- “popular” students make ing year, and junior year I you feel anything less than was hit with so much drama worthy. Just remember they and nonsense. Senior year I peaked in high school and it spent most of the year nap- won’t last after these four ping. I think I did a total of years. You’ll walk into a 20 year high school reunion nioritis is REAL. The best advice I could give to incoming students is to be more understanding. thought they had it “all” There are a lot of students during their glory days in on campus who suffer from a high school.

of colorguard taught me to push myself and to love something bigger than myself, something I had never been shown before. I met my best friends through colorguard and watched my teammates grow every season, but of course there were times when I was less than enthusiastic about going to a pep assembly or a practice. Being happy and motivated isn’t an easy task for those who struggle with getting out of bed in the morning. Having a packed schedule most of the year through marching band while struggling with dethat tell you to cheer up pression taught me how to

By CASSIDY MOORE or make more friends can’t Editor-in-Chief push myself and to ask for even begin to know what it’s by others. help. I used the resources I have been told many like to struggle every day It’s not that I didn’t en- around me to get help and times to love high school; with a mental illness. Havjoy high school. Each year learned my limits. that life gets worse after and ing a mental illness in high at OHS was different and Although I will not be I should just enjoy my time school is an overwhelming changed me in many ways, continuing with color guard with my friends. I have been and isolating feeling due however my character was in college, I am so thankful told that I have no reason to to the general ignorance of be stressed or sad and that those on campus. As a sely after joining color guard people skills I have learned if I don’t feel like I belong, nior, I look back on my time and marching band. I was through the sport. At ASU I should just join a club. I in high school as something taught that I have a purpose I intend on staying out of was never told that it was that has shaped me. For and a support system of my the spotlight and focusing okay to feel alone, to feel better or for worse, I am a peers and adult instructors on my academics. Someoverwhelmed. Those kids different person than I was behind me to help me when- thing I learned is the most

College: Arizona State University

Major: Civic & Economic Thought

comfortable for me. After four years of being involved in tons of clubs I just want to have a break from it all.

While being involved is important, it does not make or break high school. If you are more comfortable staying to yourself and focusing on your personal life, do not let the extroverted and enrgetic people tell you that you have get out of your comfort zone. But if being surrounded by people and involved in as many things as you can is what makes you happy, then that’s okay.

Don’t let people shame you for being outgoing.

Recognizing that my mental illness wouldn’t go away and that I would have to live with it prepared me the most for my future. Although my time at this school was full of ups and downs the (four) friends I have made make it almost worth it.

High school may have put me through more pain than it did growth, but it also taught me how to grow from my pain.

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Senior Spotlights C a s s i dy M eye r College: Edinburgh- Napipr University (located in Scotland) Major: International Tourism and Hospitality Management

“In a very cliche way, it’s [high school] very lifechanging. High school was a place where I could

PHOTO BY CASSIDY MOORE

L a u re n K i s i c k i College: Arizona State University Major: Business Data Analytics

PHOTO BY CASSIDY MOORE

Ro h i t K a l l u r i College: University of Arizona Major: Mechanical Engineering

“High school has been such an amazing experience and a lot has changed for me since I moved here from Chicago freshman year. Participating in clubs like FBLA and NHS has opened up so many doors for me to grow as an individual and as a leader. It’s sad to think that this chapter of my life is coming to an end but I’m excited to see what the future will hold.”

PHOTO BY EMILY MAI

College: Glendale Community College Major: Emergency Medical Management

PHOTO BY EMILY MAI

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Senior Spotlights K ayl e e E r i c k s o n College: Brigham Young University Major: Undecided

deal. I verbally committed the summer after freshman year, it was on the fourth of July. It was after a big tournament in Colorado and I played really bad, but the one time the BYU coach came I played really well. I didn’t know he was there and then afterwards my parents told me he was there and I was like ‘oh okay’. I’ll get to play PHOTO BY CASSIDY MOORE

D av i n S o n g College: Arizona State University Major: Business

sophomore year. It was honestly magical, the comradery, especially in your section and the friends you have. It’s

PHOTO BY CASSIDY MOORE

G ra c e N e a l College: Arizona State University Major: Computer Science Cybersecurity school experience. I’ve made such good friends here, people who will be in my life for a very long time and I’ve gotten to see friends who I’ve every one and the experiences we’ve gotten to share. The teachers here have really impacted my life. Without them, I wouldn’t be the person I life (shoutout to Mr. Weyker). As much fun as I’ve had here, I’m so excited PHOTO BY CASSIDY MOORE

C h a s e To n c h e f f College: University of Arizona Major: Biomedical Engineering “High school is nothing you can prepare for. For me, it was a place for a lot of those moments, love what you have because sooner than you expect, it will be what you had. Looking back, sometimes I may have regretted my choices like procrastinating or not involving myself, but don’t beat yourself up, life is long and you still have plenty to live for. Get the dust of your shoulders, get back and try again with a better attitude, but most importantly don’t try to do it alone. Meet friends, go on dates, have a social life. Nothing was better in high school than the people who came into my life. Cherish those souls, and it’s a harsh world, so be kind and have an open heart. In the end, high school is different for everybody. We all face different challenges and obstacles, so rise up to the occasion and take them head on with the people you care for PHOTO BY CASSIDY MOORE

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Senior Spotlights Tyl e r Wa l ro d College: Northern Arizona University Major: Buisness & Economics

PHOTO BY CASSIDY MOORE

“As a freshman I was terrible. I had no friends. So try not to do anything top stupid that you would regret for the rest of your years. Talk to as many people as you can. There are so many people you are going to start talking to senior year that you are going to wish you talked to freshman year.”

Trav i s P r i n c e College: Paradise Valley Community College Major: Fire Sciences

“I think it was a unique experience [senior year] compared to most people, being apart of a sport and especially a sport that big. Football made my senior year a lot more memorable. I think a memory that really stands out to me for football was at the Ridge game. We were climbing through the stands coming out from half time and you’re not allowed to do that.”

PHOTO BY CASSIDY MOORE

Megan Marzano College: Gateway Community College Major: Ultrasound Tech Program

PHOTO BY NIKKI HAZELETT

“My high school experience was probably the best four years of my life so far. I have learned and grown so much these last four years all thanks to my family, friends, and my amazing cheer team. Some of my favorite memories of high school was being a part of the varsity cheer team for all four years. I love the bond the girls and I have built throughout the years, even if it was at early morning practices, cheer competitions, pep assemblies, or Friday night football games.

I was so glad I was able to be a part of such an amazing program.

Nothing will ever beat being out performing in front of my peers at Friday night lights and assemblies.”

J o h n Ro u s h J r.

College: University of Arizona Major: Pre:business and Entrepreneurship

“Make [high school] your own experience.

Really focus on your time here and try hard to do things that make you happy, take classes that you care about so that you have something to look forward to.

High school is all about the little things.”

PHOTO BY EMILY MAI

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Senior Spotlights H ayl ey M a t t h e w s College: Embry Riddle Aeronautical University Major: Mechanical Engineering

PHOTO BY CASSIDY MOORE

College: Northern Arizona University Major: Media Production & Theatre Design with a Technical Focus

PHOTO BY EMILY MAI

College: University of Arizona Major: Biochemistry

PHOTO BY EMILY MAI

College: Michigan State University Honors College Major: Elementary Education

PHOTO BY EMILY MAI

CLASS OF 2019

4 May 2019

By PEIGHTON GELLINGS

Arts and Entertainment Editor

Living in the brutal Arizona heat, teens are always looking for new things to do that get them away from the sun.

Places like Dutch Bros. or Starbucks provide a place where they can hang out and talk to their friends, while enjoying refreshing drinks, but now it looks like they are getting some competition.

The Wow Wow Lemonade Stand opened its doors on March 15 and introduced a trendy new hang out spot within a close distance of OHS. There, they offer a wide variety of food and drinks so that there is truly something that everyone can enjoy, and Haley Matthews, senior, is able to attest to this.

“I think it’s so cool because different compared to Dutch and stuff like that. They are the places that are just the same thing over and over again, where at Wow Wow I would never even think of creative,” Matthews said.

The overall atmosphere of Wow Wow transports the customers right to Hawaii, which is where it originates from. The bright colors and pictures all over the lemonade

By HANNAH LORENZO

Features Editor

With the school year coming to an end, there’s one more special event for lasting memory: prom. Every year, students fall in love with prom and get excited as they write the important date down in their schedules. As prom is a special night of the year, the anticipation rises as students don’t know what to expect, especially the seniors who hope to make their prom an amazing one before they take their next steps after graduation.

Every year, student government has a committee comprised of the junior class to be in charge of prom setup. These juniors dedicate a lot of their time and energy to make sure that prom has the potential for success. Since there is a lot of planning to do, their ambitions are carried out through determination and willingness, which can be greatly appreciated.

“Basically, we have been preparing since last spring

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stand really make it stand out against big time drink shops.

“I love the vibe of Wow Wow, and the food of course.

I’m obsessed with the açaí bowls and the avocado toast, and it’s so close by. It’s like a local business, so its better than going to a chain. It’s cool to have the one Wow Wow,” Matthews said.

Wow Wow’s aesthetic not only derives from the appearance of the lemonade stand, but the environment that the workers create.

Haley Simonds, senior, has been working at Wow Wow since it opened in March.

“Customers can expect people who always have a smile on their face ready to make something that you are going to enjoy and we also say it’s a consequence-free environment, so if you order something and you don’t like it, we will take it back and make you something for free,” Simonds said.

People who go to Wow Wow can tell that the employees genuinely like what they are doing and that plays a large part in what keeps customers coming back for more.

“I think the people I work with play a huge part in it.

We all get along great so it’s a lot of fun and we all look forward to coming to work,

break, booking the venue, looking at all the decorations, themes, photographers, so we’ve been working on this for more than a year,” said Anthony Garcia, junior.

Prom always has a unique location, and with a theme of “Written in the Stars,” Stugo upped their game with a location that is sure to wow students beyond belief.

This year’s prom took place on April 27 from 8-11 pm at Wrigley Mansion, and Stugo put in their efforts to make this possible.

“I would say our most unique feature is just the location because no one has ever had prom there, and it’s really special and they just redid it and so it’s going to be really pretty,” said Reagan Taylor, junior.

Although Wrigley Mansion is a fairly new area to have it is one of their best qualities for the event. The venue coincides with their theme, and Garcia adds that it is very different from the norm.

“Well, I know the last venue was more modern and new, and this is more of like a

Page 11

PHOTO COURTESY WOW WOW LEMONADE STAND The staff of Wow Wow Lemonade Stand is excited to serve up joy to their customers. but also I really enjoy the it’s not even close and we’ll be possible. things that we make so that’s friendly, but not as friendly “[Wow Wow is] super exciting too,” Simonds said. as Dutch where they are in healthy-living, all of A trip to Wow Wow your car like screaming, but their stuff is organic and Lemonade promises an we just like to interact with biodegradable, so they interactive experience that them,” Edrington said. are earth-friendly and the sets the shop apart from the Wow Wow has also been people there are super nice, normal drink shops. Lauren carrying out a campaign that they are ready to talk,” said Edrington, junior, has also promotes the use of reusable Matthews. “They make it been working there since they cups instead of the usual fun and you can see in the opened their doors. plastic. They sell mason jars back when they are working, “When people say their for an additional 5 dollars and it’s all lighthearted. It’s like name we say ‘how do you strive to make their products putting love into your food.” spell it’ because at Starbucks as environment-friendly as

classic, I want to say, almost like romantic feel with the white, and so it’ll be more of like a classy-type prom,” Garcia said.

Since the junior class in Stugo is responsible for everything in prom, including activities such as photo booths, DJs, and food, they have to be focused every step of the way. And of course, the well-being of the students participating is always a concern, so Stugo works diligently.

“We’re in constant communication with the venue, making sure that we have everything organized and we’re just making sure that everyone has a good time,” said Aidan Barinque, junior.

Not to mention, spreading the word for an event can be But there are many creative ways for students to get the message, and they have become effective at OHS. “So, basically, we have signs all around school; we’re posting it on our Twitter, everyone in our committee is putting it on our Snapchats,

PHOTO BY ISABELLA FOSTER Juniors and seniors look forward to having a good time at prom. there’s a sign in front of the bookstore, the student government Twitter is posting about it, so we’re getting it all out there,” said Garcia.

After observing all of what Stugo has done in order to develop a prom that they’ll never forget, it’s clear that their goals for a night to remember were achieved.

And of course, the seniors always wish for a fantastic time at prom, as it is their ultimate step before heading towards their bright futures.

“Well, I’m hoping that it’s better than last year because it was fun; I liked seeing everybody in their dresses and everything and how

pretty they all looked,” said Courtney Rosenow, senior.

Despite the struggles and stress that high school has to offer, prom is one way to relieve all of that and create memories to remember long after. And even if troubles still remain with students, at least high school provides something for them to have a little fun.

“I’m excited because I love to dance, so I’m excited to dance and listen to music with all my friends,” Rosenow said. “I’m hoping it’s better than last year, though, because I didn’t have the best experience last year, but I’m pretty sure this year will be better.”

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The Talon

May 2019

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The Eagle Grind energizes teachers

By ISABELLA FOSTER

Photography Editor

The Eagle Grind has come to OHS to supply teachers and faculty members with a hot cup of coffee every Friday morning. Jessica Walsh and her TSW program students received coffee and supplies donated from Elevate Coffee to execute their idea. This program is in it for the long run, lasting until the end of this school year as well as continuing to the 2019-2020 school year.

The Eagle Grind delivers coffee every Friday for faculty members and teachers. Teachers can sign up on a google form to place their order the Friday before they want it delivered. This new opportunity is hoping to get teachers excited for the early school mornings as well spread more awareness to Elevate Coffee.

This new idea, sparked from the minds of TSW students as well as their teachers, started with small ways to bring coffee to teachers. Originally, a grant was given by the Deer Valley Education Foundation for students to make the coffee with Keurig’s. A

faculty member reached out to Elevate Coffee and gave them the opportunity to come together on the idea.

“We wrote a grant to get some start up funds to do this, we were originally going to get Keurig machines and K-cups so the students could make the coffee themselves then deliver it,” said Jessica Walsh, TSW teacher. “And through a connection, we set up a meeting with Elevate to talk about our plans and they wanted to sponsor us.”

The TSW students are working very hands on with the project. TSW helps students with career exploration and helping with business skills, working to prepare them for the future.

This is seen as an opportunity for the students to learn business skills for their future after high school.

“It will be a fun way to connect well with teachers and make them happy, getting them their coffee,” said Isabella Cox, sophomore.

Although, The Eagle Grind has only just started, the faculty members and teachers are excited for the idea. They have already been getting orders from a large

PHOTO BY PEYTON THOMPSON Students go around campus to deliver the coffee to teachers Friday morning amount of teachers before “Elevate is going to give us two different types of coffee started delivering coffee. to distribute every Friday “We’ve got a lot teachers and as this continues we will be working to get more the teachers seem to be really options.” Walsh said. excited for the opportunity TSW classes will work on to get their coffee,”Cox said. ways to market this new As The Eagle Grind starts, program and bring more teachers are itching for publicity to the idea, working more selections and excited on marketing materials for what’s to come. With and logistics for the plan to The Eagle Grind currently operate smoothly. They will having only two different also be giving funds to and order selections, the teachers working with the student in charge are looking to get government to help improve more options to the table the school, and give support such as iced coffee and other to the entire student body.

“I feel like this is going to

go very well. We have all the things that we need to make it happen. We’re all excited for this and the teachers seem to be very excited,” said Tucker Matas, sophomore.

Teachers and students are very excited for this new program and hope that everyone else gets excited fro it too.

“We’re really excited to partner with a community business, Norterra, they are very gracious and willing to donate the coffee and other supplies to us which is incredible,” said Jessica Walsh, TSW teacher.

FBLA and HOSA welcome new recruits

By CHRIS BONIFAZ

Recently HOSA and FBLA went on state competitions for a wide variety of categories and skills. First we have the HOSA competition.

Before members get to see the material and experience of the state competitions they need to know how to get “If you are interested in competing then come to

chosen what they want to do they start preparing as soon as possible. Members begin working on presentations or studying for tests, depending on what they choose to compete in. While there is enough time to have some downtime, participants should be constantly working and keeping up with the remaining days.

“Throughout the meetings we will have check-ins, like

everyone and check how their coming to future meetings presentations are coming so we can talk about what and make sure they stay on competitions are for you,” track,” Vasko said.

However, it is not as simple said Caitlin Vasko, junior.

As soon as they have as coming to meetings and Students, staff and Dr Miller., I have thought quite awhile as to what to say told you had the best young people in any high school. I believe it still today.

I think you have a good day, not when I say “Good Morning” but when you reply with a big smile, a wave, a nod or a “good morning”.

There is a big world out there and when you can walk by without a greeting, you are staying in your own small world. You are now in what will be called “the good old days”. So open your eyes to the world outside yourself.

Whatever you do, do the best that you can and BE the best person that you can be. Have a long healthy, happy life and make a difference in whatever you do and wherever you go.

I hope you have a blessed life as I have had, and being here on Tuesdays makes the week go better.

Tuesday greeter, John Hanks

PHOTO BY CINDY GARRAWAY FBLA students show their awards at the State Leadership Conference working, there are also costs to the club. It costs money vibe because everyone is on to go to state and the school their A game,” King said.

There is no need to worry does not cover it, so the club however, because it is not has to come up with the intense for the entirety of the money themselves. trip as there [is] just as much “Money is a big thing so downtime. we are going to have around “The bus ride there was very fun and was more order to get enough money of a chill vibe and when for everyone,” Vasko said. we got there we stayed at On the FBLA side of a really nice hotel until things, it is very similar to we competed,” said Tyler HOSA, but with very slight Buividas, freshman. differences.

The competitions range “Just coming to the from all different kinds of meetings and getting your foot in the door and just categories based on what letting everyone know you’re each person is interested in. interested goes a long way,” “My competition was said Aniya King, freshman. impromptu speaking which It’s the same as HOSA in was where I was given a topic the fact that you practice and I had to make a speech on for the competitions and it in ten minutes, but there are prepare yourself to compete in a professional setting.For ethics to programming,” the competitions themselves, Buividas said. the experience is one to be With such a wide range remembered for members of of options there is at least FBLA. something for everyone to

compete in.

Just like FBLA, HOSA is very similar when it comes to the experience of competitions.

“There are a bunch of different events with different schedules, so you get to see everyone running around dressed in professional attire and you can network and make connections while also competing and having a great time,” said Quinn Dickerson, junior.

The event isn’t just tests and presentations as there is the option of meeting other contestants or resting in between meetings. There is also a little break for those that tough through all the stress of the competition.

“There is also a dance one of the nights for people just to have fun and let go of all the stress of competing and it’s just an overall good time,” Dickerson said.

4 May 2019

Features thetalonohs.com

Page 13

Mock Crash assembly brings awareness Bad decisions that teens make on the road, even the small ones, have the potential to alter a person’s life and in some instances end it altogether.

“Even though it’s just a small choice of picking up the phone while you’re driving, or consuming that drink while you’re driving, or like I said even taking prescription medication, that they’ll think before they do any of those things. Don’t become one of the statistics,” Bianchi said.

In addition, the mock crash promoted the work

By PEYTON THOMPSON

News Editor

Students watch as two cars are revealed in a cloud of smoke. The girl who caused the crash immediately calls 911 after recovering her prom date who was thrown from the car. She is told to follow through with CPR until the authorities arrive. Later her date was pronounced dead.

The mock crash enactment provided students with a worst case scenario, meant to open up their eyes to how one wrong decision on the road could affect the lives of many.

On Wednesday April 24, OHS students had the opportunity to witness the mock crash assembly put The OHS drama students also took part in the enactment of the hypothetical crash in order to portray the horrors of making a bad decision on the road.

“Well I hope they get to see something from a different perspective. Today there was a lot of different professionals out here from the trauma surgeons, to the everyone was out here,” said

PHOTO BY PEYTON THOMPSON paramedic. “And I really hope they got to see things from a different perspective and really open up their eyes and see that how dangerous their choice can be and how many lives it can impact besides just their own.”

Presenting the information to students in this way allows authorities to show students what something as devastating as a car crash would be like and hopefully makes them think twice about putting either their own or someone else’s life in potential danger.

“In reality we were here 40-50 minutes to put this on; if this was really going

on it would tie us up for 12 hours. So the resources are tremendous. I mean just putting one of these on, we bring a helicopter and stuff like that so it is tremendous resources, but if it saves us then from having to deal with it, it saves us from seeing someone lose their life. We’d rather be proactive rather than reactive,” said Joe The main purpose in presenting the mock crash is to make a difference within the Phoenix community starting with high schools.

In reality, the likelihood of impacting people becomes greater when the information

is handed out, one large group at a time.

“The statistics and the data are there. That’s what started it. It’s the behavior of the people that live in our state. We want to help change their behavior and help them see things through a different perspective. Hopefully today does that,” Liebermann said.

“2500 students in Arizona just got educated on impaired driving, distracted driving and not wearing a seatbelt properly. Hopefully that sticks with them and they think twice about putting a seatbelt behind their back or about drinking and getting behind the wheel.”

departments.

The fact that they were a part of the assembly made all the difference.

“I think it just adds to the mock crash effect; I think it makes more of an impact. and police to get here and be a positive light in the community for the students because their job is to keep people safe out in the community that we live in.

So it’s awesome that they can come and be a part of it,” said Justin McLain, Assistant Principal.

The assembly itself was lined up perfectly with the week of prom.

Jump to Page 14

Summer vacations exceed expectations

By MACY SANCHEZ

Journalism Student

From an outsider’s view Arizona is a land full of beauty, but for those who have lived in Arizona for the majority of their life it becomes a desolate desert with little to offer. Summer vacations are both an escape from school and the intense Arizona heat, they help remind us of our beautiful Arizona home. Some students enjoy their summer at home or at summer camp, but a handful of students venture far from Arizona and take in the spectacle of astounding new places.

With an entire world in front of us, there are countless adventures waiting to be taken. Courtney Rosenow, senior, is exploring Greece this summer with her family.

“I’m actually Greek and I have family there that I would have never met. I am really excited to see where I came from and my heritage,” Rosenow said.

Traveling to distant countries helps people to discover unknown landscapes, but in some cases

it can also help us discover more about ourselves and our past.

one from my mom’s family to come over from Greece to America. We’re probably going to go to the islands where my grandma grew up,” Rosenow said.

Boundaries are being broken as many students travel beyond their comfort zone.

This summer, Autumn Burton, junior, will be attending the World Explorers trip with her history teacher, Laura Coughlin.

“I’ve never really left the state really far. I’ve been to California but that’s it. I wanted to have the chance to be able to go and see somewhere so far away and somewhere so alien to me. This is the perfect opportunity for me to get out and see the world,” Burton said.

A total of two OHS students and students from various other school, are involved in the World Explorers trip.

The students will spend three and the remaining three

days exploring New York.

The studenmany historical landmarks and iconic places including Paul Revere’s house, the Statue of Liberty, the Empire State Building, and a Broadway show.

“I am most excited for the Broadway show and seeing the Statue of Liberty. It’ll be a good experience for me. It’ll help me gain independence and prepare for when I go away for college,” Burton said.

In addition to the New World Explorers trip, OHS offers a trip to Spain that occurs every few years. James Tickner, spanish teacher, will be attending the trip along with four OHS students and eight other students from various schools. Ticknor and the other students will spend 10 days in Spain. They will be accompanied by a tour guide in each city that will show them around to the legendary places. They will get to visit cathedrals, museums, palaces, and the Madrid soccer stadium.

“My favorite thing is Barcelona, that’s where I was teaching English for a year. I’m looking forward

PHOTO COURTESY OF TRAVELANDLEISURE.COM to walking the streets of Barcelona to see all of my fans. When I go to Spain, people like Shakira are always excited to see me there,” Ticknor said.

Ticknor says that he had been to Spain six other times, including four trips with students. As an exchange student, Ticknor spent his junior year in college in Valencia, Spain. Ticknor’s him to go back shortly after and teach English for a year.

“The passion I have [for teaching Spanish] is through my trips to Spain and really living there and not just being a tourist. I want the students to experience what I talk about in my class and just get the excitement of being there. You can’t quite describe it, you have to actually be there. A little bit of that in ten days, to kind of plant that seed and get students to start thinking about languages,” Ticknor said.

14

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May 2019

thetalonohs.com

Ms.Frost prepares to storm into new year

By LEXI GASS

Over many years, the marching band at OHS has earned a reputation for being an award winning program with lots of talent among Starting at the beginning of the semester, the program has welcomed a new director, Amy Frost, as the driving creative and directorial force a native Arizonan, Frost has come to OHS from Austin, Texas to help the marching Frost has an extensive hishigh school, she was a part of the Coronado band in Scottsdale, and was also a member of an elite marching group called the Santa Clara Van-

Family has always been an important aspect of the tablished traditions that have been honored over the years, and Frost intends on making sure these traditions remain alive and well within the protraditions and honor what has been done in the past while still trying to create new and exciting things for of my favorite things about these students is that they ship, family, relationships, and bonding are all really important for this program, so the fact that they’ve welcomed me with open arms from the very beginning has

allowed her to be prepared to take on a massive group of kids and lead them to a new

Concerning the future of the program, Frost plans to keep on pushing the program forward and succeeding in

and a privilege [to be direct-

to help build the other aspects of the program, like the

by the students and build the overwhelming

sometimes,

“Next year, we plan on putting a good show together, one that the students can latch onto emotionally and enjoy performing,” Frost

ing the program by numbers and getting kids excited to be apart of this important continuing to be excellent in see us having opportunities to excel in concert band and solo area where we can work on the individual student and not just the whole massive Frost’s enthusiasm for the program has also inspired enFlowers, junior, sings high praises of Frost and already knows how much she will imenal director and we are so lucky to have her,” Flowers perienced with music and

PHOTO BY LEXI GASS Ms.Frost stands in the front of the classroom condusting her students she knows everyone, she stays after school and gives everyone extra time to practice at school, and she goes the extra mile every single time with-

leader at the helm, and it is sure to be a great experience

“When you walk in a room,

Although sometimes a change in leadership can be disorienting for a band, there is a bright future ahead for

or so far to be apart of this school, apart of this campus, and apart of this program,

makes an effort to make sure

program is ready to continue into the future with a new

She has gone above and beyond to make sure we feel taken care of as a band and Besides her musical impact on the band, Flowers believes that her personality is also an

tinue to grow this program,”

Jump from page 13: Mock Crash assembly brings awareness Because prom is one night where a lot of students go out to have fun, it is important for the message of the assembly to hit home so it would hopefully make teens think before doing something they “Prom unfortunately is one of those nights that kids often do go out and they do consume alcohol and do Homecoming, prom and graduation are some of the So we kind of pick usually prom just because the time it falls in the year, hopefully it’s cool enough still so we can put this on and yet that they are going to drink even when

they’re not supposed to, that they’ll think how they’re going to get home ahead of time,” said Joe Bianchi, po-

think if you’ve had trauma or something happen to you or your family you might

Out of 2500 kids, the message the mock crash brought was bound to make an im-

say everyone is going to have some affect,” said Jonathan

most likely of those impacted would be individuals who have dealt with trauma on a

to make something like this

that would be affected would be those who have dealt with trauma like that before at that the majority of people are going to take something going to be some variation based on how much that af-

the police department and many more, this event was “There is a lot of resources that go into planning this event whether it is the PhoePhoenix police, the towing company Western Towing,

community agencies that put on this demonstration mock crash for everybody, we have the student government, who plan and organize, we have the theater department who did a fantastic job,” said Mcfor their contribution to the event; sports medicine provided the water for students that needed it during the assembly, as well as having the Townsend family here being a supporter, that is a great addition to this assembly and sembly, Spring Bemis, family cer Townsend, spoke to the students about distracted driving and the way it affects

families through their perassembly she asked all OHS students who pledge to drive son, the whole student body the perfect embodiment of very end when all the students stood up and they stood up to represent that they are making a commitment to making good decisions on the road; that was the biggest to the student standing at the very end as well as the parent

Editors-in-Chief:

Sports Editor:

Staff Writers:

Cassidy Moore Nikki Hazelett

Rohan Patel

Lexi Gass

Editorial Chief:

Katie Caccavale

Copy Chief:

Audrey Serrano

Rohan Patel

Chris Bonifaz

News Editor:

The Talon is published as a forum for student opinion at Sandra Day O’Connor High School: part of the Deer Valley

top online publication and one of the top or libelous statements print publications in

the editor must be are of those of The signed and dropped off Talon staff and do not The Talon is an award in Room 508, e-mailed winning publication Visit The Talon online with dozens of awards for it’s staff members may be edited for as well as ranked the content and/or space

Adviser:

Cindy Garraway

Peyton Thompson Teanna Meagher Features Editor:

Photo Editor: Isabella Foster

Hannah Lorenzo Arts and Entertainment Editor:

Peighton Gellings

Sadrac Rainey Chase Wyatt Emily Mai

4

Opinions

4

thetalonohs.com

Page 15

Nipsey Hussle forgotten too soon

By ROHAN PATEL

Sports Editor

Another day, another life taken by gun violence. But this time, that violence took the life of a beloved artist and activist.

It was a warm day in Los Angeles on March 31st.

Nipsey Hussle was in the parking lot of his clothing store. There, he came across Eric Holder. They exchanged a few words and even shook hands. Moments later Nipsey and another one in his head.

35 minutes later the face of Los Angeles was gone.

Unfortunately, these senseless acts of violence occur daily. Only when it hit someone in the public eye did players repped Nipsey for days. People who had never heard of him became his biggest fans. And while all this is great and deserved, the question has to be asked: where was all this for the other tens of thousands of people killed by guns? They left quietly. But perhaps Nipsey can speak for all of them. Maybe, hopefully, his death can bring about change that they all deserve.

This isn’t about gun control. It’s not about gang violence. It’s about respect.

We can’t let thousands of people go to their graves

without making any changes to ensure it won’t happen again. First, we have to respect how precious life is.

Next, we have to respect the lives of those who have passed on. And once we are able to respect life, we realize the need to preserve it. Only then will viable change occur.

Once again, this isn’t about gun control or any other political policies. It’s about respect.

In the case of Nipsey, respect simply was not present.

There were celebrities who came out in support of him and his family, but society as a whole did not emulate that.

In fact, at Nipsey’s vigil, one person was stabbed. Imagine that. At an event to honor the life of a peace advocate, more violence took place.

That is disrespectful and it is unacceptable.

Then to make matters worse, more violence took place at Nipsey’s funeral. One person was fatally shot while four more were injured. The motive is still unknown but at this point, it is irrelevant.

Nipsey’s mission to reduce violence was destroyed at his own funeral. It’s disrespectful enough to go against someone’s beliefs in front of them, but that level of disrespect shoots through the roof at someone’s funeral.

How will Nipsey’s ideologies

PHOTO COURTESY OF STAPLESCENTER.COM and views withstand the test of time if his life and death are not respected? And remember, this is a famous rapper. It’s likely the other tens of thousands killed by gun violence were treated with even less respect, coinciding with even less action.

But that’s not all. Nipsey was disrespected in death again, and it was on national television. Fox News’ Laura Ingraham mocked Nipsey on the day of his funeral by mentioning a song he features in called “FDT” or “(Expletive) Donald Trump” with rapper YG. She didn’t bother to mention of his activism, or his plans to meet with the Los Angeles Police Department to discuss gang

violence. Just one song from three years ago. And to make matters worse, Ingraham showcases a clip of the music video that only shows YG with no sight of Nipsey Hussle.

Ingraham then proceeded to laughingly say, “Is that related to the lowest unemployment ever basically for African Americans?”

She’s talking about a person who just died. Someone who was a role model for many. an old song to make fun of a deceased person? Just more disrespect.

Nipsey Hussle’s death was a tragedy, and unfortunately the actions after his death were even more tragic. A shooting that devastated an entire city only resulted in

two more acts of violence and a mocking on national television. How can any action be taken to better this situation if it isn’t even taken seriously? It can’t. People must respect the lives of those who have died from gun violence to understand the importance of gun control or to at least understand that some action must be taken.

We did not respect Nipsey’s life, achievements, and dreams, and we may have lost the golden opportunity to take action to better society.

However, we still remember Nipsey and his hopes. Now we will wait for one more life to be lost and start over again.

But this time, let’s hope to do it with respect. And the marathon will continue.

Article 13 will change the internet forever

By NICK FELIDES

Journalism Student

The beauty that once was the internet is leaving us within the next two years, due to the EU (European Union) passing Article 13, in order to strengthen copyright laws.

A proposed European Union Directive in 2018, Article 13 was proposed on the basis of keeping a strong a grip on the internet and its users, by making access to copyrighted material stricter.

The majority of avid internet users have protested this by signing petitions and making countless videos of the disadvantages of this action.

This law will require websites such as Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, and many more sites to install algorithm. If a user were to break the terms of service, using copyrighted material in their own content, not only

could they be sued, but the platform it was posted on, could face such consequences.

Seeing as sites such as YouTube already have a poor copyright claim system, this will indeed have dire consequences for its users.

A content creator could end up being sued for as

the foundation of content creators. Many people can make a long-term career out these outlets, not only providing for themselves, but millions of other internet users, in the form of content.

Places like YouTube and Instagram have benched the

PHOTO COURTESY OF YOUTUBE.COM much as having a picture of copyrighted material in the background of their video. Not only does this diminish the monetary gain of creators, it also shrinks the revenue of the company.

These social media companies are built on

replaced it with something that promotes creativity and free reign to do almost anything.

Passing this law is stripping the creativity and fun of what the internet was made for. This will not decimate the careers of those who

prosper of the internet, but it certainly won’t help them.

Before Article 13 was passed, many attempted to stand up to it, trying different of the most notable attempts was a petition on change.

million signatures to prevent censorship. Even though literally millions were against this change, the bill was still passed.

Now, this means a number of things that will go into effect within the next two years. These sites have already implemented a copyright system into their algorithm, but it isn’t as effective as it should be. That’s going to be very different once Article 13 goes into full effect. As said before, if a user doesn’t the original owner, they can sue not only the user, but the company as well.

When it comes to copyright, the standards are very vague and ever changing.

The majority of content on YouTube already falls under fair use. Fair use claims that, as long as the copyrighted content is turned into something different and/or constructive, it can be posted without the creator losing revenue. This sounds fair, but due to the ever-changing standards of copyright, creators can get their content claimed, even if it falls under fair use. So, trying to create an even stricter system off of an already poor algorithm won’t pan out well for the platform.

At one point, the internet was the Wild West. Anyone can do just about anything as long as they followed the very simple rules. People could solace, escaping from harsh reality. For now, though, the war on Article 13 still wages on, with people still hoping something will change, for better or for worse.

16

The Talon

May 2019

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Avengers:Endgame marks the end of an era

By PEIGHTON GELLINGS Arts and Entertainment Editor

The day fans have been both anticiapting and dreading has come and gone. Avengers: Endgame hit theaters Apr 26 and with it, the era of the Avengers came to an end. The epic and proved to be so when

after Thanos’ snap, Tony through space and it is

for her behind a window. The him back, whatever it takes.

Thor is then retrieved from New Asgard where it is

much he misses her and the to have together, but never

Larson, shows up just in time and brings them both to Earth. survivors and among them is Pepper and Steve, but are cut short by Tony’s

returns with the stone, and She then transports Thanos back to modern day the stones to bring back the the books.

Steve is forced to face

high stake mission, but it was make an appearance.

after just two weeks. in 2008 with Iron Man, and for more than a decade to

It is a heartbreaking scene in

bittersweet as dedicated fans have to say goodbye to the

movie, showing the audience that it is going to be a hard road back for the survivors.

Those that are strong

the years.

the whereabouts of the stones during separate points in time and soon enough it

Avenger takes an epic stand against Thanos. Everyone things that he had done in his

again was everything a fan

to ensure that it stayed out of the hands of Thanos. The Peter was one of the other

the stones days before so

Avengers defeated and divided, with Tony Stark, Thanos and everyone returns than before.

stones away from Thanos.

However their methods

years and shows Earth in a PHOTO COURTESY OF IMDb is time to retrieve them. The respective missions and it’s A majority of the movie is focused on Tony and Steve, which was very refreshing

He seeks out Steve and

been rocky since the end of

past, bring them back to the present and bring back

banter and friendship was very much missed and added

which

is

something

Steve and Tony are forced

years ago.

They try to recruit Tony, but with a wife and daughter

that

then she joined the team that

from their pasts who tie into

Tony stands against Thanos saying, “I am Iron Man,” and ending his journey the same way it began 11 years ago. read more

Tony ends up running into his father and getting that Tony and his dad didn’t have before his sudden death. Steve manages to see

Endgame opens 22 days

devastating. She was raised

about what the Avengers are trying to do. He then captures

The trial must go on for the OHS Theatre

By KATIE CACCAVALE

genders being switched. You

Equipment Manager

audience’s perspective.

Since the cast was made crime and an investigation right in front of you, the

acting and theatre was shown performed.

of

the drama production

juror is tasked with deciding innocent of homicide. This and performed and the hard work from everyone who was

The

audience

change in the character’s However, the emotions towards other characters were the same for both

and theatre in the actors’ performance.

the differences between the

into two casts, the actors were

period.

Moving onto the cast,the

atmosphere and chemistry between the characters were refreshing to go watch a character changes due to the

show even more entertaining. the chemistry between the character and the actor. That

PHOTO BY KATIE CACCAVALE Delan Hafeed, junior, pretends to smoke during the play. chemistry is one way that the audience can get so drawn into the show. was much more interesting and captivating than was different since there were

gave the audience a reason to come back and watch it

again. time you watched it, it was want to go back and see the performed

and

presented.

The Talon

thetalonohs.com

May 2019

17

Breakthrough breaks the boundaries of faith

By HANNAH LORENZO

In a perfect world, people do not have to fear the unknown. They can control every event in their lives with no worry of any deviation from their plans.

Of course, in reality, life has its unexpected outcomes, and people prepare for the worst with no glimpse of hope. But what if there were such thing as miracles, ones that seem impossible for a person to believe? Can miracles really happen to anybody in this cruel world?

Breakthrough is a new, cinematic feature willing to take on the idea of expecting the best instead of the worst.

With its release date on April 17, audiences are introduced to the true story of a young boy in a tragic accident and how all odds were defeated by the power of belief. Full of emotion and passion, Breakthrough touches the hearts of everyone who sees it with a dazzling interpretation of the novel, “The Impossible”, by Joyce Smith, and shows just how powerful miracles can be.

The events take place in 2015, where an ordinary family lives happily in the close-knit town of Lake St. Louis, Missouri. Joyce Smith, played by Chrissy Metz, has a lot to handle in her life. She makes sure that she is invested in her religious activities and deals with a emotionally distant 14-year-old son at the same time; chaos is a normal part of her life despite her desire for peace. The movie of ambitious mothers in this world by not sugarcoating any of her problems.

Her son, John, played by Marcel Ruiz, seems to grow distant more and more every day. And his mother notices his behavior. Just like many other teenagers during a rebellious phase, John stops focusing on his homework and gets into trouble with school bullies.

ordinary boy in a small town in the U.S. Most of the time, people think that miracles only happen to a lucky few who are thought to be special. But this time, something occurred that is

continuously ignored by John as he deals with the trouble of his past and takes it out on her. Their relationship represents what kids in high school go through with their parents and just like John, many teenagers can is to understand certain circumstances in their lives that they cannot control.

Communication is almost nonexistent between the two, which proves to be a disadvantage for a disaster when one day, John and his friends decide to play on an icy lake. None of them thought to contact any of their parents to tell them where they were, which foreshadows a terrible event.

Soon enough, the worst happens: the ice breaks and the boys fall into the freezing water. Although his friends are able to escape, John is not so lucky and falls deeper, drowning. The tension increases little by little as audiences are caught in a silent scene full of danger and curiosity, which does a successful job of capturing everyone’s attention to the point where almost nothing else mattered except seeing what would happen to John.

Joyce is informed about John and rushes to the hospital, praying all the while that he is okay.

Once she gets there, it is

Poster photo for “Breakthrough” Courtesy of 20th Century Fox discovered that John is dead, with no chance of being revived. But his mother cannot believe this; she begs God to bring him back as her hysterical wails echo throughout the hospital.

Then, the “miracle” happened, which is what audiences have been waiting for. All of a sudden, John comes back to life, with a weak but sure sign of a pulse. This scene of rising tension is amazing on screen as it emphasizes devastating heartbreak and the joyous sense of relief at the same time.

And so begins their journey of ups and downs that seems to last a lifetime. Audiences are sure to be in awe as every scene takes them deeper into what it means to rely on faith and truly be amazed the

power of love. John’s story starts off with tragedy but as it goes further, that tragedy evolves into a wondrous miracle with every passing day in the hospital.

As audiences experience Breakthrough, they can be deeply touched by the story all of the disbeliefs in order to save her son through almost impossible means with the help of her family, friends, church, and even the doctors who expect the worst for John. Her feelings of pure hope can be witnessed by everyone watching and their tears are shed along with hers.

This movie adaptation of a true story highlights the wonders that are brought into this world. John is an

explanation.

Although it is a Christianbased story, Breakthrough is not just focused on one religion. It is meant to broaden people’s horizons on what is normal in this world and understand that life has changes that even the smartest of the smartest can not interpret directly.

John’s journey not only affected himself, but also his entire life and the people in it. Hope and faith are the two important factors that stand out in this case. Here is a boy who did not show much affection towards his parents.

He is an athletic star going through that teenage phase, trying to make it big. Then, an accident hits him hard, and many believe that he will just die. But he doesn’t. He recovers and without the love of the people he has, that hope would not shine, despite his ignorance of that love.

Being a new movie open to criticism, Breakthrough does not disappoint as it does a marvelous job of showcasing a true story that was meant to make the people believe in the unknown. Instead of the normal cheesiness and sappy love stories, this demonstrates that a deep love of faith can lead to incredible things, no matter the circumstances.

And even to the nonbelievers, miracles can become something to believe, and this story does just that.

It does not just apeal to the religious audience.

Blackbears new album ‘too close’ to home

By TEANNA MEAGHER

expressed and poured his

Blackbear’s newest album, ‘ANONYMOUS’ was released March 26th, 2019, and debuted at #14 on iTunes charts. His new album dives into the complexities of the pain of being in love and his personal struggles with drugs and addiction.

Unlike in his previous albums and songs, Blackbear goes deeper and becomes more honest with his addiction to drugs and

songs for the world to know.

As stated in “Changes” he raps, “Been drunk like three whole days, like why? It’s sad but true, can't be in love with you”. He conveys his concern in him changing without her and believing she’ll forget who he is and the love they once had.

The song “Drug Dealer” idolizes his relationship between him and his drug dealer as he says, “I can’t trust nobody else but you”.

He openly reveals his trust and dependency on his dealer and his fear of losing him.

If he lost this guy, he was worried about what it would be like with a new one. His deep concern shows that he has so much faith in this man, that losing him scares him.

His song ‘1 Sided Love’

of relationships. His last two albums, ‘Cybersex’ and ‘Digital Druglord’ don’t reveal his emotions as deeply as ‘ANONYMOUS’.

‘ANONYMOUS’ is based off his ex, Sydney Carlson and their past relationship.

Blackbear captures his fans and lures them into a deep and well written album.

illustrates the toxic relationship he had between himself and Sydney. “I see through the smile that you’re fakin’. You’re so into yourself, everyone else is overrated.”

Sydney was self absorbed and faked her love for Blackbear. Only giving a care in the world about herself. He depicts how he tried to make their relationship work, yet she only loved herself, what he considers ‘One sided love’.

‘NYLA’ being one of his published back in 2013, he decided to rewrite it and add it into this album. The old version he keeps the lyrics the same throughout the entire song, but in the new one he switches from verse one being, “You’re in New York, I’m in LA… And I’ll be asleep by the time you’re awake” to verse two, “You’re in LA, I’m in New York… I’ll be at work by the time you’re

Alternate cover for ANONYMOUS Courtesy of Bandsintown.com awake”. Also the new version meaningful album shocked is more raw and vocal where he exposes his natural voice time allowed his fans in on and takes a break from rap. his deepest and more painful ‘ANONYMOUS’ portrayed secrets. This allows his fans emotions and addictions to feel more deeply rooted to that Blackbear has been him as a person rather then struggling with for years. just an artist. A side we have The sudden drop of a very never seen before.

Sports 4

Page 18

thetalonohs.com

Baseball looks to live up to high expectations

By ROHAN PATEL

Sports Editor

Varsity

Nothing is better than winning state championships.

Except, maybe, winning two.

That was what the OHS baseball team was aiming for after winning the state championship last year.

Although they fell short this time around, OHS baseball still had a fairly strong season coming off last year’s success. season with a 17-9 record, earning them the third seed in the state championship tournament. However, there they fell to Mountain Ridge, losing by one run.

Nevertheless, the regular season was a large accomplishment in itself, especially with some of the struggles the team faced early on. “[Our attitude and effort] was really good at the start of the year and then we kind of slowed down towards the middle of the season and then we picked it back up towards the end of the season.

Honestly our chemistry has been a lot better since the beginning, and I think that’s the reason why we’ve been playing really well,” said Cal Lambert, senior.

The team’s chemistry was one of the main reasons for the team’s success throughout the season.

“Chemistry’s helped a lot because knowing your teammates, it just helps you

By KADEN RYBACK

Journalsim Student

Under the guidance of new leadership, and with the exciting prospects of a new edition to the competition, the track team Now seniors are wondering whatcomes next with their track careers, coming off the heels of a season highlighted by certain individuals showing off their abilities by

play a lot better together and team dinners, stuff like that, hanging out with them just develops relationships with your players,” Lambert said.

That chemistry translates

players are more comfortable with their team.

“You already know what the other guy is thinkiang so you can make the plays easier, make the hits better,” said Brendt Morgan, senior.

However, with last year’s championship and this year’s early success, opponents were ready to give their best when playing OHS. “It puts a target on our backs because everyone wants to beat so everyone’s out for blood for us, so it really just motivates us to go back to back; that’s really our goal, really just take it one game at a time,” Lambert said.

There was also pressure on the team to repeat as champions, as last year set high standards for the team, but they remained unfazed.

“Being the defending state champ is always going to have pressure, but we just don’t focus on it; just go play,” Morgan said.

Even if this year ended on a sour note, seniors still leave with a state championship under their belt and a longstanding legacy.

“I just want to leave the leadership of how things are supposed to be done around here, like getting to practice early, being one of the last ones to leave, like show them

crushing records, and that was made all the more unique by a new competition.

Exciting new prospects arose with the javelin throwing contest, an event which was introduced to OHS this year. This new competition was tried by most of the track team, and was met with some mixed reactions.

Ethan Jezulin, senior, had a startlingly successful season.

He smashed not one, but

that and be an impact for the younger kids and show them how to do it, what to do and just show them how the program is supposed to be run,” Lambert said.

JV below .500 this season, but their record does not truly they underwent this past season.

“It went pretty good; I was on the JV level this season but we started off bad and season pretty strong and won a bunch of games at the end the season with our heads up,” said AJ Turner, junior.

Like the varsity team, the JV team found their identity as the season went on and they bonded together as a team.

“At the beginning of the year we didn’t have very towards to the end we started to have fun with the game and winning became easier and make fun because we got a lot closer to each other,” said Jacob Perry, sophomore.

Despite the fact that JV winning record, their poise towards the end of the season suggests that the OHS baseball program is not going to take a step back next season.

“Positives [from the season formed a brotherhood and the way everybody began

two school records this year both in discus, and the boy’s long jump. Jezulin was one of the members who took a swing at the javelin throwing competition. Although it took some getting use to, Jezulin does not regret giving it a shot.

“It’s fun to throw it, but it kind of hurts. I hurt my shoulder every time I threw it. It was still something fun to do this year,” said Jezulin.

Other team members, such as Jocelyn Longaza, senior, found the competition itself to be rather interesting, but doesn’t think it is suited for everyone.

“I was told to practice [javelins] for exactly one day. thing to see. It’s not for the people that might not be as attentive to those sort of things, especially since

PHOTO BY KADEN RYBACK OHS athletes run at the DVUSD meet which was at OHS from April 15-17.

it’s an awesome addition,

PHOTO BY ISABELLA FOSTER Cal Lambert, senior, winds up as he pitches against Mountain Ridge. to play as a team because top of a lot of players on the when you’re not playing as a team getting fundamentally team it’s really hard to play better too.”

Their chemistry also a positive we can take away,” improved as the season went Perry said. on, which allowed them to fully utilize the talent that Freshman Just like the other OHS the team has. “[Our chemistry] improved teams, the freshman team started off slow, but soon a lot. I know at the start of heated up as the season went the season a lot of people didn’t like each other but year of high school baseball, then we started [to] be more the freshman players were as a team as the season went still able to forge a bond on,” said David Acocella, through the course of the freshman.

Still, the freshman team season.

Jared Erisman, freshman, has much to live up to, and felt that the team started players know they will have off on the wrong foot, but to work hard to carry on the consistent work allowed them departing seniors’ legacy.

“Most of the seniors on to become more successful on varsity are taking off, going “In the beginning of the to college this year, it’s kind season it was a really big on all the underclassmen to lack of focus from most of really to make that happen the people on the team but again this year and the towards the end we started year after that and so on,” Erisman said. “So it’s a lot to become more focused in of pressure trying to live up each game, each practice,” to what they’ve done.” what Erisman said. “And that’s on they’ve done.”

and it gets us more points in invitationals,” said Longaza.

With javelin throwing adding to this season of new coming to an end. This leaves many upperclassmen athletes with an open door before them. Seniors with their high school track experience under their belts, must now contemplate whether they are willing to take another lap in college.

Longaza started track her junior year. She devoted her training and time to pole vaulting, and has shown her skills and abilities on the track, going as far as to become the district champ in pole vault. Longaza is looking at the options she has set before her, and wants to remain committed to her sport as she goes into college.

“I plan to do some sort of club team, mostly for pole vault, because that has been a passion of mine. I wish I

started it earlier. I know that at the college I am going to there is going to be a club team there on campus. I’m going to be ready to do that,” said Longaza.

On the other hand, some seniors recognize that this is the end of the road. Sloane Sivek, senior, began her track journey last school year, and has been a varsity runner meet. Despite her success and over what she wants to do in college has left her with the tough decision of keeping track as only a part of her past.

“I have gotten offers from colleges, smaller colleges, to go run, but the schools didn’t have what I wanted to study.

So unfortunately I won’t be running in college,” said Sivek.

OHS’ next competition will be on May 10 at Red Mountain.

The Talon

thetalonohs.com

May 2019

19

Softball keeps their bats high for the season

By PEYTON THOMPSON

News Editor

Varsity

As seasons come to close,

PHOTO BY ISABELLA FOSTER Emma Villaescusa, senior, runs to the bases during the MRHS away game.

Freshmen

JV

Boys’ volleyball continues legacy of success

By ROHAN PATEL and

PEYTON THOMPSON

Varsity

JV

PHOTO BY PEYTON THOMPSON Sam Zaporowski, sophomore, and OHS take on Liberty on April 18th.

20

The Talon

May 2019

thetalonohs.com

Beach Volleyball Ends the Season Strong

By ISABELLA FOSTER

Photography Editor

Varsity As Beach Volleyball’s well awaited season comes to a close, players are anticipating what’s to come in the next school year. Expectations are higher and Varsity is already looking for new ways to improve in the next season. Getting knocked out in the quarting them get their hopes down, as it just pushes them to improve their techniques in the coming year. Ending the season with a record of 10-2, they ence known against their opposing teams.

From the player’s standpoint, they enjoyed the season all while they worked their hardest and did their best. Always keeping a positive attitude helping them keep their heads up even if they don’t do as well as they hoped.

“It was a really good team and season, our bond with each other helped and knowing that the coaches had faith in us and we had

faith in each other,” said Sarah Martin, sophomore.

Players returning in the next season are anticipating new players joining the team. As the old players go, new ones are hopefully going to make a great impact on the coming season.

“Next year we’re losing a lot of players, so it’s going to be interesting to see all of us take their spots and see how far we can go,” said Morgan Pacione, junior.

The Varsity team worked really hard to create a bond with each other. Working well together helped them compete better as a team, and do their best even if they were unmotivated.

“I thought this season was amazing, we really gel well together, considering we have so many seniors.

It was really cool seeing the upper and lower classmen get to know each other and play,” Pacione said.

Their coaches helped them work towards something better as a teams as they introducing new techniques and overall cheering their team on.

“This year we practiced a

lot; we had a conditioning coach and a couple other coaches brought in to help us,” said Trinity Freeman, sophomore.

In the next season, the Beach Volleyball team members are going to work on taking more time for themselves and realizing that they can do amazing, reminding themselves of that.

“I think we need to calm down, play our own game and not worry about other people to help us improve,” Martin said Beach Volleyball ended their season well and in anticipation of their next.

“All of us and the coaches helped us realize that every day is a new day and we can’t give up,” said Morgan Pacione, junior.

JV JV Beach Volleyball closed the season just as well as the Varsity team.

Throughout the season they worked hard and created a strong bond together as teammates. In the coming season, they are striving to work hard and do even better than this last season.

PHOTO BY JAYDEN FISHER Kailey Trapp (left), senior, and Ally Fuller (right), senior, going up to spike

The players are all anticipating a new season, considering they did well in the previous one. They feel that they have worked hard and gotten better along the way.

“The season went really well, we all have grown a lot and learned a lot,” said Haley Wellman, freshman.

This year they worked hard and created a lot of team. Even though some of them didn’t know each other at the start, they have created a family along the way.

“We were like a family, we are best friends and family. It gave us really good chemistry when we worked together,” said Brianna Bigelow, junior.

This next season is hope-

fully going to go better than their last. They have high hopes to make it furthe next competition.

“Hopefully we’ll make year we made it past semiwork to improve where we go in the next season,” Bigelow said.

New techniques and drills are coming for the Beach Volleyball team in hopes of improvement, and they’re accepting them fully.

“Next year we’re going to work more on techniques, more conditioning and do a lot of team bonding to help us work well together to improve,” said Alexis Battles, freshman.

Tennis prepares for the future of the team

By CHASE WYATT

Boys: Boys’ tennis ended their year with a record of 4-10, being ranked number 29 in the division. They faced a tough schedule, facing off against some of the top teams in the state. The seniors on the team are sad son, but they leave behind a team well equipped to win state next year.

Senior night for tennis was on Thursday, April 11 against the Horizon Huskies, in which OHS won the set 8-1, ending the season with a win.

The boys’ tennis team is coached by ceramics teacher, Kent Younger, and conwho will all leave the team in these next few years, the team will win state.

Michael Tobin, senior, thinks that OHS will have a state-winning tennis team and says that their coach is great and really loves helping out the new players.

“We had a lot of talent

and a lot of younger kids on the team now and I think we’re going to have a good team with all the freshmen. Our coach did real well, and he helped out the freshmen and incorporated the seniors into helping out the freshmen, as well, and improved their skills since a lot of them were new to the sport and didn’t know what to exactly do in this sport coming into this season,” Tobin said.

Broderick Amrein, senior, enjoyed being able to face against the top teams in the state, and felt like he grew more experienced because of it.

“It was tough, but exciting to be able to play to that level because you don’t get that opportunity too much,” Amrein said.

Girls: Girls tennis ended their season with a record of 3-11, also being ranked number 29 in the division.

While they may not have ended the season as well as they wish they had, they still ended phenomenally based on the competition they had facing the top

Boys Tennis player gets ready to hit the ball back towards his opponent

teams in the state.

They are coached by Chris Harmonson, one of the counselors at OHS, and consists of 2 seniors.

Josie Nathal, sophomore, feels that the team was a lot closer this year than last, and did well in her last game this season.

“I thought it was fun, a lot of people from last season were here and I got to meet new people and I felt that this year the team was a lot closer. I did really good on my last game so I last game this season,” Nathal said. nior, was nervous going into this season since she was one of the only two

seniors on the team, but night game against Horizon and her four seasons of tennis overall.

“I was nervous going into this year because I was one of two seniors on the team and all of my friends had graduated, so it was weird having to make new friends with the new kids.

Overall, I think I did really well in my tennis career here because I went from being an alternate, literally the bottom of the food chain, to being varsity 1 in two years, so I think that’s Julia Curtiss, junior, is the only junior on the team and really feels that the coach did a fantastic job

PHOTO BY LEXI GASS

this year of always being there to help the team.

“I think he did put in a lot of effort and was always there for us and he was always trying to get us to the next level, and I think he did a great job of doing that. He learned a lot from this year, as he’s only been coaching for a few years and what makes him a good coach is that he learns each year how to better his coaching skills,” Curtiss said. “So far, I’m going to be the only senior on the team next year, but I know there will be other upperclassmen on the team next year, so I don’t feel as pressured about being the only senior next year.”