Twice-Told Tale

The Student News Site of Lake Highland Preparatory School
(Above) Double standards exist beyond gender roles. A wonderful resource about this topic is the blog Modcast, where English Literature and Language graduate students discuss various novels. In fact, the blog has a section called “Hypocritcisms: Double Standards in Literature,” which is dedicated to various types of conflicting ideals faced by people from all communities. This goes to shows that despite the wonderful steps made to equalize things for various groups, conversations are still happening and progress must continue.
Double Standards Dominate the Timeline
November 2, 2023
(Above) The cosmetic industry plays a significant role in fueling ageism by perpetuating unrealistic beauty standards and promoting products that promise to reverse or prevent the signs of aging. Many companies within this industry capitalize on societys obsession with youth, often employing marketing tactics that reinforce ageist stereotypes. For instance, beauty brands like LOréal have come under scrutiny for campaigns that seemingly celebrate older women but still emphasize their products anti-aging properties. Similarly, companies like Estée Lauder market their products with phrases like turn back the clock and age-defying, further contributing to the notion that aging is something to be feared and avoided at all costs. Like plastic surgery, topical remedies for aging won’t transform you. Billion-dollar companies aren’t dedicated to making the world look younger. They’re preying on easy insecurities, and we fall for it every time. In 2021, the global anti-aging market was estimated to be worth about 62.6 billion U.S. dollars according to Statistica, and this number is expected to increase significantly in the next few years.
Discrimination Comes of Age
October 4, 2023
(Above) Senator Rick Scott was my governmental correspondent. He gave me a Challenger Coin which has his seal for when he was the Governor for the state of Florida.
A Journalist Journeys to D.C.
September 27, 2023
The line between cruelty-free and ethical is blurry. For example, the brand behind the Benefit Brow Bar in Ulta, Benefit Cosmetics, claims to be cruelty-free, claiming, “All Benefit products undergo very strict tolerance tests using non-animal methods during the procedure of each product,” on its website. However, what the company fails to mention is that animal testing can occur after the product is created such as pre-market testing and post-market testing. The old status quo of whether a brand was cruelty-free or not was if it sold products in China, but since recent laws now let “general cosmetics” be imported into China without animal testing, the line has become even blurrier. Benefit Cosmetics’ hair dye and freckle remover fall under the category of “special cosmetics” and thus require animal testing. To bypass the confusion entirely, I recommend that you stick with brands that are undoubtedly cruelty-free. My favorite ethical brands are Native, E.L.F., Glossier, and Rare Beauty. 
Embrace the Beauty of Being Cruelty-Free
September 15, 2023
(Above) My grandparents from my mother’s side helped raise my brother and me until I was six and he was three. Seven years prior, they had dropped everything and flown from Shanghai, China, to take care of us. At that point, they were already in their late-sixties, but family always comes first. Photo courtesy of Mr. Samuel Young.
Benefits of Being Bilingual
April 20, 2023
(Above) From high in the sky, travelers are able to see all across the city. Though most likely only recognize famous landmarks such as the Empire State Building, and Freedom Tower, the bright shining lights are simply a ghastly sight to see. Though these shining lights aren’t just any random buildings, they represent many neighborhoods yet to be explored and visited that local New Yorkers call home. As mentioned before, Chelsea is one of those prominent neighborhoods. With an amazing community, excellent shopping center, entertaining markets, and mouth-wateringly good food, Chelsea is a great place to spend time. The Chelsea community would best be described as creative, originally made from factories, and now modern-day living spaces, Chelsea’s character is artistically unmatched. The neighborhood’s most popular shopping district is Chelsea’s Market located on Ninth Avenue and West 16th Street. The building stands tall made from classic brick with its large sign standing tall for all to see. Throughout the market, people will find restaurants, bakeries, clothing stores, and much more.
Sleepless City Shines
October 26, 2023
(Above) In Autumn, Wekiwa Spring’s wildflowers flourish. The dry ground found on the latter end of the White Trail loop provides the perfect soil for composites, or flowers in the daisy family. These yellow buds also support the migrating butterfly and moth populations, especially Polyphemus moths. The purple flowers, dense gayfeather, however, are native to the summer-time and die in the fall and winter months. This cycling of plants keeps Wekiwa Spring’s soil fertile and provides necter for pollinators. Two years ago Lake County Parks and Trails and the Florida Wildflower Foundation teamed together to develop pollinator habitat Wekiwa-Ocala Greenway. By planting small trees, shrubs, wildflowers, and, most importantly, milkweed, they hope to raise the bee population which has seen a dramatic decline in the past years due to the increase use of pesticides in nature.
Native Wildlife Also Attracts Locals
October 24, 2023
(Above) The founding of Belle Glade is rooted in the richness of its fertile ground. The city’s official slogan, “Her Soil is Her Future,” nods to the Earth’s gift to the Glades. The Glades Area (including Belle Glade, Pahokee, and South Bay) earned the moniker of the “Winter Vegetable Capital of the United States,” during World War II. Its farms supplied canned and frozen vegetables (harvested partially by German prisoners of war) in the winter months when the rest of the country suffered from extreme freezes. Today, the focus has shifted from winter crops to sugar cane. U.S. Sugar Corporation now runs the town. Every breath you take in Belle Glade reminds you of their presence. A slightly sweet, burnt smell lingers around town, as a core aspect of the Glades’ identity. A standard practice in the industry is field burning before harvest to remove excess brush, sending large plumes of smoke into the air. Despite this, air quality remains relatively high in the populated areas of town.
One County: A World of Cultures
October 11, 2023
(Above) Coach Randy O’Neal works on his leg strength with the workouts Coach T gave him. Coach O’Neal pitched in the Major Leagues from 1984-1995. He then was drafted in the 1981 MLB draft as the 15th overall pick to the Detroit Tigers. Coach O’Neal made his major league debut on September 12, 1984 in Baltimore against the Orioles, pitching a solid three scoreless inings, pitching against the retiring the reigning Iron Man at his second at bat. Coach O’Neal pitched for five teams throughout the span of his major league career including the Detroit Tigers, Atlanta Braves, St. Louis Cardinals, Philadelphia Phillies, and San Francisco Giants.
Lake Highland Athletes are Fit to a “T”
September 20, 2023
(Above) Right before hitting the stage, the cast of Chicago formed a circle in the middle of the theatre. They participated in group activities, sang and danced, that not only warmed up their vocal cords, but also pepped each other up, and let all of their nerves out. Different cast members took turns going into the center of the circle and leading the group, like “Follow the Leader.” Sophia-Bella Carrasquillo, class of 2023, is pictured doing an iconic Chicago pose, getting into the feel of Velma Kelly, while her castmates repeat it back to her.
Denizens of “Chicago” Find a New Home
September 19, 2023
(Above) Conan Bickford has many big responsibilities as a part of the LHP security team. A lot of these jobs often go over-looked by students because they are things that normally would not cross our minds. One of these responsibilites is to ensure that all safety signs stay up. Bikers and walkers often knock down the “No Tresspassing” signs around campus. Mr. Bickford must ensure that these signs stay put to make sure every Lake Highland student and staff member is safe.
A Day in the Life of the LHP Security Team
October 27, 2023
(Above) So much work was put into publishing this book. Endless hours of writing any time and in any place all paid off when Isabella Delbakhsh received her first copy of Freedom Speaks in the mail. Publishing her own book, let alone becoming an Amazon Best Seller, was no easy feat and a remarkable achievement. Let this be an inspiration to make a difference and leave a positive mark on the world around you as well. After all, Delbakhsh is proof that people of any age can advocate for change.
New LHP Author Writes a Woman’s Truth
October 20, 2023
(Above) Currently, only Universal Studios hosts Halloween Horror Nights. However, there are plans set in the future for Islands of Adventure to possibly also host the event. This new change could add more scare zones, haunted houses, and shows for guests to enjoy. But for now, only Universal Studios lights up the night with its spooky decorations that are sure to give guests a fright before even entering.
Never Go Alone
October 13, 2023
(Above) Mr. Parke was a chaperone for the 6th grade Washington D.C. trip when he snapped this selfie in front of the Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial. “I’m a huge quotes guy,” Mr. Parke says as he pulls up his favorite from MLK quote and reads it aloud: “The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort and convenience, but where he stands at times of challenge and controversy.”
New Dean Doubles Duties
October 12, 2023
(Above) Right here on the LHPS campus, eerie feelings have emerged when students and staff have walked alone in Highland House, where students come to attend classes in the traditional and digital arts. Highland House was originally a family home, built in the late 1940s or early 1950s. After Orlando Junior College purchased the land, it was used as offices but, “Retained a ‘house’ layout,” states Dr. Brenda Walton. She also said that by the 1970s, the land became a part of Lake Highland with various purposes, including hosting home economics, science, and yearbook classes as well as a space for faculty to host holiday parties. By the 2000s, it became the arts building. However, with a long history comes troublesome events, including the deaths of many people around the property. Ms. Ginger Bryant, states that although she doesn’t believe in ghosts, she has, “Seen things in that building that [she is] not able to explain with any sort of scientific backing.” Other administrators and students have relayed similar sentiments, stating that they feel some sort of presence or negative energy when passing by the building.
Where to Unearth Haunted History
September 29, 2023
Natures Everlasting, Jasmine Jiang, Grade 11, Watercolor.
Fall Literary Magazine Released 2023
November 14, 2023
(Above) Singer and rapper SZA performs at her concert on September 22, 2023. Fans can be seen filling the Amalie Arena in Tampa, Florida to watch her. This performance was part of her S.O.S. Tour, about which Rolling Stone commented, “SZA lives up to all the anticipation” on opening night.
Female Rappers Drop the Mic
October 25, 2023
(Above) Concerts are undeniably crucial to the vitality and essence of folk music. Folk music, at its core, is an art form rooted in community and human connection. Live performances are the lifeblood of this genre, as they provide an unparalleled platform for artists to engage with their audience in an intimate and authentic manner. Folk concerts, or better yet, festivals, offer an environment where stories are shared, traditions are preserved, and emotions are conveyed with raw sincerity. Folk concerts also serve as a way to promote cultural heritage, allowing artists to pass down oral traditions and keep ancient songs and stories alive. This is seen best through not-so-mainstream artists such Creole folk singer, Bo Dollis’s concerts before his passing in 2015. Through concerts, folk music finds its truest expression, preserving its authenticity and reminding us of the timeless importance of storytelling and shared experiences in the human journey.
Folk Music Breaks Through the Pandemic
October 5, 2023
(Above) The fan project that has dominated the Eras’ Tour has been trading friendship bracelets, which is inspired by the lyric, “So make the friendship bracelets, take the moment and taste it” from the song, “You’re On Your Own Kid” on Swift’s newest album, Midnights. Fans, such as Kathryn Hudson, grade 11, and Isa Tapia Arocho, grade 11, pictured here, traded before and after the show (or in a McDonald’s like the transaction I saw prior to the doors opening). Another thing that was featured on most fans’ hands was the number 13. This comes from Swift’s affinity for the number as she was born on December 13. In an interview with MTV back in 2009, Taylor Swift explained why she always draws the number on her hand before a show, noting, “I was born on the 13th. I turned 13 on Friday the 13th. My first album went gold in 13 weeks. My first #1 song had a 13-second intro.”
“Sparks Fly” at the Eras Tour
September 11, 2023
Ocean Medusa, Keira Meyers, Grade 9, Watercolor.
Spring Literary Magazine Released 2023
May 16, 2023
(Above) The girls Varsity Bowling team likes to take lots of photos so they can look back and remember the fun times they had with their friends. It is important to have a great team chemistry to help the team improve and make friends during the season.
Varsity Bowling Strikes Out Competition
November 7, 2023
(Above) The football team reflects on the game against Orangewood Christian Academy. The post-game speech consists of the highs and lows of the game. It is important to remember on the game to help them know what they will work on in practice, and what to look for when watching a game or practice film next. Coach Bullock tells the xteam what he saw in the game, making sure to spotlight the plays of the game and impact players. Also during the speech, Coach Bullock makes sure to mentally prepare the team for the next game. Coach Bullock always ends every speech on a high note., to keep his players’ energy up.
Bullock Coaches Highlanders to a “Three-Peat”
October 18, 2023
(Above) Every Wednesday and Tuesday the LHPS cheer team meets at 6:15 A.M. This helps create, structure in students’ schedules.
Cheer Goes Fullout
October 3, 2023
(Above, left to right) Part of the Lake Highland Varsity Girls’ Cross Country team: Sadie D’Andrea, Kate Buckley, Frances Yong, Serena Young, Sofia Tenghoff, Simoni Kyriakou, Emma Larson, Kolbe Madden, and Annabella Tomasic. They are about to begin their race at the Cecil Field Classic in Jacksonville, Florida. Behind them are the tents of the other cross country teams at the meet. The Varsity race began at 6:15, and the Elite race began at 7:15.
Cross Country Sets the Pace
September 26, 2023
(Above) Alex Horn grade 11, looks to win the faceoff against her opponet. After the Highlanders scored, they always have to be prepared to win the ball. Alex waits for the referee to blow her wistle to start the faceoff. Alex had succesfully won this faceoff. All Photos by Hayden Roberts.
Inside the Start of a National Powerhouse
April 14, 2023
(Above) JB’s Fish Camp is named after Captain John A. Bollman III, who sadly passed away from cancer in 2015. It is popular among many visitors as it is located on the canal, showcasing various forms of wildlife. Manatees, dolphins, and turtles frequent the areas surrounding JB’s dock. Along with the great views, JB’s is the perfect place to get a refreshing drink and a delicious meal after a long beach day.
Discovering Hidden Gems in New Smyrna
October 31, 2023
(Above) The writers strike sent warning bells throughout the entertainment community as writers wanted to delete A.I. and instead saying Yes to writers and literature.
Fast Forward or Rewind Through Time
October 30, 2023
(Above) Lineage is a very popular local coffee shop, located in Downtown Orlando. With room to study, sip on a delicious seasonal drink, and nibble on a warm pastry that melts in the mouth; studying can be something to look forward to rather than dread.
Duplicating Rory Gilmore’s Mindset
October 19, 2023
(Above) Sometimes it’s fun to stand out with a solo costume. High school students from Lake Highland Preparatory School were asked what their opinion was on dressing up as a musical artist. Liam Szubinski, grade 10, said, “I think dressing up as their vibe is better. Also you need accessories...,” he continues to say how he might choose to dress. Although some people don’t like the idea of dressing up as a music artist at all. Gates Valines, grade 10, said, “No I don’t like the idea of dressing up as your favorite music artist for Halloween because that’s odd.”
Costumes Raise the Night
October 17, 2023
(Above) Serena Mahta and other students of Mr. Joseph Kostura’s Digital Storytelling class at Lake Highland edit videos in their classroom on September 6, 2023. They are working on creating the LHP Morning News, which the Digital Storytelling class does every week. This year, however, the use of AI services such as Chat GPT has the potential to influence screenwriting both in and outside of the classroom.
AI Rewrites the Script
October 10, 2023
(Above) The festival showcased The Hour of Darkness, LHP’s Jazz Ensemble, and the chorus. Chorus displays unique singing personalities, while the LHP Band displays their incredible use of instruments. The amount of people at the art festival illustrates both the love and the need for both performing arts and traditional art in our community.
Festivities with the Arts
November 3, 2023
(Above) Shailee Patel (right), grade 10, serves as the secretary of the Crafts of Service Club and Ally Safi (left) participated at the first Crafts of Service club meeting held in Mrs. Miriam Campbells room. Here, they are successfully constructing a Note of Kindness. These notes are the first of many projects to come and can be picked up by any given person in the Kind Library.
“Crafts of Service” are Acts of Service
October 9, 2023
(Above) I’m so grateful to watch each and every one of these girls go through a transformation. “Do you want to do it again next year?” my mom asked me. I smiled and nodded my response.
China Summer Camp Becomes A Reality
September 12, 2023
(Above) Second Harvest Food Bank supports over 100 partner charities. For every dollar donated, they provide five meals for families and people with food insecurity throughout Orlando. Their mission is to, “Grow hope in our region by creating pathways to nutritious food.” They also want to achieve their vision of, “A brighter future for all by cultivating a healthy, hunger-free community.” Not only does Second Harvest Food Bank allow people to help their community, but it also has its own community be- tween the volunteers. You can volunteer at Second Harvest Food Bank, located at 411 Mercy Drive, Or- lando, Florida. Whether you are a returning volunteer or are volunteering there for the first time, Second Harvest welcomes everyone excited to help the com- munity. Photo courtesy of Mr. Brent Pirie.
Can by Can Conquers Hunger
April 27, 2023
(Above) The Dance Marathon Members plan a theme each year, this year being Candy Land, and come up with cre- ative activities that correlate with the theme. Ms. Katie Gallagher expresses how proud she is of the group saying that they,“Did an amazing job raising funds and coming up with a fun way to celebrate our success.” Photo of total 2022 funds courtesy of @lhpsdm Instagram.
Dancing Donations Fight Pediatric Cancer
April 19, 2023
(Above) The beautiful waterways of Venice provide breathtaking views. However, the city of Venice is no stranger to crime and death. While the waterways are beautiful, they contain a rich and rather haunted history. Whether it is polluted waters or the dead bodies of cursed citizens, the waters of the city of Venice are a history waiting to be explored.
Poirot Returns to the Silver Screen
November 6, 2023
(Above) Small businesses help the communities they surround, but the city of Orlando can also help small businesses. Entrepreneurs of locally owned businesses can apply to the Business Assistance Program (BAP) which will help with costs such as relocation fees. Specifically, the grant matches the small business in fees giving an even split. The BAP targets businesses that strive to produce thriving businesses and in turn, helps by matching costs up to $20,000, illustrating just one way the economy encourages the creation of small businesses. By doing so, this conveys that consumers should support their favorite locally-owned shop too.
Find a Place Tailored to You
November 1, 2023
(Above) The ambience of Kung Fu Kitchen set the tone for a wonderful meal. Although the place is small, it filled up extremely quickly.
“Kung Fu” Delivers a Punch
October 23, 2023
(Above) The Black Tonkotsu Ramen features three eggs, four pieces of pork belly, and delicous handmade ramen. The taste is both a bold yet smooth mixture combined with the essence of the pork belly which melts in your mouth. The eggs, which are a sweet and smooth taste with the yolk, add salty taste for texture on the egg itself. Many of the ramen choices offer options to include different toppings or more flavorful ingredients like black garlic or spicy mayo.
“Domu” Serves up Second “Michelin Star”
October 16, 2023
(Above) Serena Young, grade 12, adjusts the volume of her earbuds as she picks the episodes for her car ride the next morning. Sometimes her morning routine is rushed, so it’s better to have a playlist prepared beforehand.
Maximize Carrides with Podcasts
October 6, 2023

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