Twice-Told Tale

The Student News Site of Lake Highland Preparatory School
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) The 2023 Paris Fashion Week began with a viral collection from the fashion house, Schiaparelli, inspired by the animals from the epic poem, “Dante’s Inferno.” Though the designer used only faux fur, the feedback has been polarizing, to say the least. Some critics, such as model, Christie Brinkley, called the collection a, “Huge faux-paw,” a play on the word, faux-pas, claiming to glorify poaching. Others, including myself, believe Schiaparelli’s work is a testament to how useless the fur industry is. By creating hyper-realistic busts of animals, the designer further justifies faux fur’s place in the fashion industry. Photo courtesy of Filippo Flor.
Fake Fur Solves the Real Issue
March 10, 2023
(Above) The property of Shalom Orlando is also the site of The Holocaust Memorial Resource and Education Center of Central Florida. The organization aims to combat anti-Semitism through history on prejudice and bigotry toward Jewish people. Kanye West has stated his support for Nick Fuentes, who has perpetuated a conspiracy theory denying the Holocaust, saying it was fabricated to advance Jewish interests. Denying an event that took the lives of countless Jewish people just perpetuates the hateful beliefs that first laid the groundwork for Hitler’s reign. Photo by Sarah Finfrock.
Silence is Compliance
February 2, 2023
(Above) As I was apprehensive to start training in hip-hop, my studio and team (shown above), helped me build up the courage to learn skills, as well as perform on stage. The support that my studio shows while being onstage is huge, with loud cheering and yelling. Also, other studios chime in with this same encouragement, making dancing on stage and competing less nerve wracking. After the first competition, I never doubted my ability in hip-hop, and I continue to perform multiple pieces in that style. Photo courtesy of Tremaine Dance.
Peer Pressure With Positive Outcomes
November 9, 2022
(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) At the Homecoming pep rally, David Copperfield’s Project Magic astounded the audience in their circus themed costumes as a tribute to the shows in Las Vegas. Shown are Tina Zhang, grade 12; Aishwarya Vangala, grade 11; Ava Sharon, grade 11; Karisma Kohn, grade 11, and Carolyn Rogers, grade 11, on tissu—more commonly known in the dance world as aerial silks— in a performance directed by Ms. Ginger Bryant. Incredibly, before taking the class, more than half the cast had never touched a magic trick before, and yet their performance was ready after 26 days of 45-minute practices. All photos by Serena Young.
Discovering Arts at LHPS
March 22, 2023
(Left) Sublime, Pink Floyd, Nirva- na, Blink-182, ACDC, and many more bands have been constants in rock cul- ture. With the rise of trends in social media, these bands are experiencing a “different” look. Now with a total spin-off of what used to be worn for metalheads all have turned into pink, sunny, and most of all preppy looks. The preppy aesthetics latest and may- be even most popular trend is wearing a pink smiley face crewneck found in Urban Outfi tters. The sweatshirt screams preppy from a mile away, but knowing its background would surprise anyone. The sweatshirt originates from the band Nirvana. Back in its prime and even now it would describe anything but preppy. Instead, Nirva- na was named a grunge alternative rock band. Their part in rock and roll culture was great, making grunge alternative rock popular along with Pearl Jam. Making the connection between what’s on the t-shirt and what it represents is a bit jarring. Of course, the infl uence behind the t-shirt was the decades before and how they are impacting fashion today. After that, stores started rolling out all different t-shirts that include many of the bands previously men- tioned. Another sweatshirt was made from one of the most recognizable band logos for Sublime. Many do not recognize the logo for the band but simply the design since it is still wide- ly popular. As a very popular band, the Sublime t-shirt design has shown up on t-shirts and has been around for decades to be recognized in many different places. Though again not always in this exact way.
Exposing the Band Behind the Fashion
March 6, 2023
(Above) The two plaques next to this bell are historical, each representing the time two employees served Dante, the school Andrea Santos went to when she was young. Photo courtesy of Mrs. Andrea Santos.
Other Nations Model Education Alternatives
March 1, 2023
(Above) As wind rates increase, so does the risk of tornadoes. The U.S. has experienced 1,028 confired tornadoes in 2023 reports the Center of Disaster Philanthropy. Copyright-free photo by Nikolas Noonan.
Turn Down the Dial on Global Warming
September 21, 2023
(Above) Dr. Brenda Walton (right) and Ms. Tara Bork (left) have seen the Calkins Library undergo major renovations over time. The two have worked at Lake Highland for several decades and are life-long friends. The posters in the background entail scenes from shared passions and adventures.
The History Behind the Historian
September 18, 2023
(Above) Mr. Alley, third person in from the right, overlooks the scenic landscapes that Africa is known for alongside his family. Decked out in safari gear, the hike to the top was well worth it. When reflecting on his trip, he said, “I came. I saw. I got good shots. If I go again, I’ll get different shots, but at this point it’s like, “‘I did that.’” He wishes that he could have seen African painted dogs, but comments that, “The world is a big place.”
Mr. Alley Summers on Safari
September 5, 2023
(Above) The traditional bagpipe, a huge symbol of Irish culture, has been played for every single Win- ter Park St. Patrick’s Day Parade. Bagpipes are woodwind instruments with reed pipes that are sound- ed by the pressure of wind emitted from a bag squeezed by the player’s arm. The players typically wear kilts, belt buckles, and other accessories of the traditional Irish bagpiper. There’s no St. Patrick’s Day without hearing the tunes of an Irish bagpipe! Photo by Alyssa Wiboon.
Let the Festivities Spring Forward
April 21, 2023
(Above) The ceiling in Möge is beautiful. It sets a perfect vibe for enjoying a delicious drink. Möge Tee was estab- lished in 2012 in mainland China and quickly spread in popularity worldwide. Ever since its opening, its interior design has grown to be more unique and astonishing.
Coffee, Tea, or Möge
April 17, 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) Harry Styles gave his acceptance speech at the Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles, California. The Crypto.com Arena has hosted the Grammys the most out of all the venues used for the awards show. Other venues include Madison Square Garden, in New York City, as well as the Shrine Auditorium, in Los Angeles. Photo courtesy of Timothy Norris of FilmMagic.
Controversial Picks Polarize Viewers
April 24, 2023
(Above) The Karate Kid was one of the most successful films of 1984, grossing $130 million at the box office. It won several accolades. It received, An Academy Award, a Golden Globe, and Young Artist Awards, according to IMDb. According to mentalfloss.com, three interesting facts regarding this film are as follows: Pat Morita was initially turned down for the role of Mr. Miyagi; Daniel Larusso was originally Daniel Webber; and Johnny Lawrence was Donald Rice. A well-known line from this film is, “Lesson not just karate only. Lesson for whole life. Whole life have a balance. Everything be better.” According to some sources, stars Ralph Macchio and Pat Morita were not close during the films filming but grew close later on, while Ralph Macchio and William Zabkaare are still very good friends today. Many fans praised this film for being Ahead of its time, and it is still popular today. Many fans also enjoyed the show Cobra Kai, which saw many of the stars reconnect. Graphic courtesy of Movies Anywhere.
Back in the 80s
March 15, 2023
(Above) The Orlando true crime case of Casey Anthony shook locals after discovering the events of the crime. The documentary is described by IMDb as, “Casey Anthony: An American Murder Mystery meets with the family at the center of it all, the Anthonys, to hear their first-hand account of the tragic details surrounding the death of their granddaughter, Caylee. We’ll reveal the details surrounding the troubled investigation and explore new revelations in the case that outraged the nation.” Photo courtesy of Red Huber-Pool/Getty Images.
Why are People so Interested in True Crime?
February 8, 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) The 2022 District Tournament shows how the teams work very hard at competitions. Brackets can be very long, but it is all worth it in the end goal for taking home the District trophy.
Varsity Tennis Aces the Season
March 31, 2023
(Above) Landon Towns, grade 10, practices a game-like situation, throwing the ball from his shortstop position to first base. This is a very important skill to practice because the shortstop must always be ready to help his team get an out.
Swinging for the Fences and Goals
March 30, 2023
(Above) Coach Ben Fratrick discusses the team’s game plan during a timeout. The team had been hustling and working hard on the court, putting all of their stamina, training, and con- ditioning to the test. The timeout also helps the players get a minute of rest and keep their heads in the game. Even though the timeout only lasts a minute, the players enjoy a well deserved break. All photos by Tina Zhang
High Hoops, Even Higher Hopes
March 7, 2023
(Above, left to right) Natalie Newman, grade 10; Taylor Johnson, grade 11; and Maria Evans, grade 11; turn the corner as they continue to try and push themselves to gain their team a high placement for this invitational. They have been practicing since the beginning of the summer to compete. Photo courtesy of Bob Gall.
Girls Run the Show
November 8, 2022
(Above) Coming home to a room smelling exactly like pumpkin spice is all a day needs to be absolutely perfect. Bath and Body Works offers countless seasonal scents of candles, shower gels, and lotions. One way to fully be embraced by Fall is to capture every experience through all five senses including smell. Candles not only fill the room with delicious seasonal scents but always set a cozy ambiance perfect for reading, doing homework, or simply a cozy night in. Fall is the season to romanticize life and to capitalize on looking at things differently. It makes mundane tasks all the more enjoyable, and Fall is no different. That’s why simply having the smell of freshly baked cinnamon rolls, pumpkin spice, or coffee is such a game-changer to the average day. With candles, it’s possible to experience places through smell, and while traveling or going out for coffee is something everyone loves to enjoy, there’s not always time in the day or money to spend. Candles transport people to places and just make everything better, they are so aesthetically Fall that it’s impossible not to be effected by their smell!
Getting a Sense of Fall
September 14, 2023
(Above) April 10, 2023: During the first month of Daylight Savings Time, the construction progress advanced to another stage. One-third of the walls were covered with protective shields, waiting for glass window installation. People on campus were surprised by how fast the construction progressed in less than a year and were excited to visit the new building. Faculty in Johnston and Hale Halls started to plan their move and packed the classrooms for next year, little did they know they would have to move in just one day before the beginning of school.
The Push into Porter
September 8, 2023
(Above) Getting out of your comfort zone is a big goal for most people this year. For most, 2023 is all about becoming their best selves, and naturally, TikTok is a big part of that. TikTok trends this year have mainly been targeted at setting goals and how to achieve them. A big goal circulat- ing through the community is getting out of your comfort zone, looking at what’s around you, and starting with baby steps.
How to Make 2023 That Year
April 28, 2023
(Left) Prints in French fashion are fickle. One of the hallmarks of the style is its lack of color and patterns aside from a few exceptions, including, “toile.” Translat- ing to “canvas,” the toile pattern features almost storybook scenes amidst a beige background. It initially gained popularity back in the 18th century during the age of realism when people desired art to reflect everyday life but has remained popu- lar throughout the years. To pay homage to the print, Dior Homme’s 2022/2023 Paris Fashion Week show included a collection based upon the toile print and offered a modern alternative. This runway show, especially because behind it sat replicas of Paris’s iconic monuments, proves the longevity of French fashion that makes it so alluring. The same Breton shirt Audrey Hepburn once wore is as trendy as the gar- ments on the Paris Fashion Week runways. Model photo courtesy of Reuters.
Say Oui to French Fashion
April 12, 2023
(Above) Arts generated by Niji·Journey, an AI an- ime art generator designed by Mid Journey and Spellbrush, can simulate hand-drawn works with- in realistic backgrounds. Compared with artwork hand-drawn by a human artist, it’s almost impossi- ble for one’s naked eyes to distinguish the differ- ence between such realistic brush strokes, paper textures, and shadows cast by lighting. It raises the question: what’s the point of spending hours drawing, if AI could do it better within just seconds?
AI: One Step Ahead of Regulation
April 11, 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 13, 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) Mr. Jim Varley, who works at Lockheed Martin and is a Hazmat men- tor, is an expert in design processes and has been paramount to the success of Hazmat Robotics. He assists (left to right) Julia Nicholson, grade 12; Raheema Naseeruddin, grade 12; and Garrett Thorn, grade 10, prior to going to States. All photos by Anthony George.
Hazmat Wins its Spot at States
April 18, 2023
(Above) Students William Beamer, Payton Tapp, Alexandra Leary, Grayson Lee, Iraj Kalia, all grade 11, craft shiny lanterns out of re- cycled materials to, “Not only add to the celebratory atmosphere of the Chinese New Year, but also serve as a practical reminder of the importance of environmental conservation,” says Beamer. They started by using cut up water bottles as the base, then wrapped cardboard around them to create the spherical shape of the traditional Chinese lanterns. Photo courtesy of William Beamer.
Lantern Project Shines Light on Recycling
March 20, 2023
(Above) Chef Jose Tavarez and Ms. Carmen Ortiz work together to make delicious pepperoni pizzas for Friday’s lunch. At FLIK, all the meals rotate in five-week cycles, and each day of the week has a theme: Monday is comfort food, Tuesday is Latin American food, Wednesday is Italian food, Thursday is Asian food, and Friday is pizza.
FLIK: Going Behind the Kitchen
September 22, 2023
(Above) A Costa Rican waterfall rushing into a beautiful blue body of water is one of many features other than volcanos such as the Turrialba, the Poás, and the Arenal. Lush rainforests includes Manuel Antonio, Corcovado, and National Park. The country also offers hundreds of waterfalls through- out the varios landscapes. Some of the most famous waterfalls are called La Paz, Fortuna, Volio, and Rio Celeste. Some waterfalls in Costa Rica can be up to 600 feet tall! With so many waterfalls to be admired, it is absolutely worth visiting at least once when visting in Costa Rica.
Personalizing Globalization
September 12, 2023
(Above) In the future, Ben looks forward to, “Opening up new locations and expanding the business.” Hopefully, in a few years’ time, this building won’t be the only Oodle Ra- men and More in Orlando. This restaurant is here to stay! All photos by Alyssa Wiboon.
Oodles of Noodles Don’t Disappoint
March 27, 2023
(Above) This is the viral Charlotte Tilbury’s Hollywood Flaw- less Filter, which has taken TikTok and the makeup indus- try by storm. An alternative to this $46.00 product with the same glow, would be the E.L.F Halo Glow Liquid Filter, which is $14.00 dollars. “This works like an IRL beauty filter to blur fine lines and pores, brighten, and moisturize, leav- ing a radiant finish,” according to Kiana Murden.
Cheaper Options Beat Expensive Originals
March 17, 2023
Is Viral Hype Worth The Money?
Is Viral Hype Worth The Money?
March 16, 2023

Twice-Told Tale

Twice-Told Tale
All content by Photo by Eva Cooper.
(Above) These lanterns are displayed outside of the Chinese classrooms in Lake Highland’s Cultur- al Center for all to see. Because the students chose to align their project with the Florida Envi- ronmental Protection Plan, they are able to inspire others around them, rather than simply just impacting their school. Their small reminder of environmental safety and conservation can go a long way in the community. Photo by Eva Cooper.

[Photo] Lantern Project Shines Light on Recycling

March 20, 2023
Caption 2 (club meeting): (Above) The club members meet biweekly to watch a slideshow prepared by the board members and to pray. It is an accepting environment in which athletes come to be with others like them. They discuss their future community service plans, including organizing a food pantry at The Christian Service Center. Giving back to the community is a main focus of the club. Photo by Eva Cooper.

[Photo] Christian Athletes’ Venue to Connect

February 7, 2023
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