Bighorn news: Halloween, golf, and Senior Spotlight

Senior Spotlight: Anthony O’Bryant

Oasis Academy College Prep has served students in Fernley for several years and senior Anthony O’Bryant has made the commute to the school now for three years.

“I actually live in Fernley, so when my parents told me that I was switching schools midway through my freshman year, it was a complete moment of panic for me,” O’Bryant said. “Not only was I switching schools and leaving friends, but I was also traveling to a whole different town to attend Oasis Academy College Prep.”

The transition was easier than he thought.

“I quickly found support from my teachers, as well as from the friends that I made,” he said. “Although it was challenging, it has ultimately helped me to realize how much I can accomplish if I really work hard and apply myself. It’s made me grow a lot and feel a lot more confident in myself and my abilities.”

O’Bryant has a couple individuals he’d like to thank for their help at Oasis.

“All of my teachers have worked with me to get to this point, but Mr. Eric Grimes has been here since I started at Oasis and always supported me and pushed me to do better and try harder. He helped me learn how capable I am,” he added.

Counselor Andy Lenon is another person who has had an impact on the senior.

“Mr. Lenon has always encouraged me and kept me moving forward. He’s taught me how to stay focused and positive, even if I felt discouraged,” he said. “I’m grateful for both of them because they have helped me feel more confident in myself and I’m proud of how far I have come.”

O’Bryant’s favorite classes and activities involve spending time with friends and classmates.

“I really enjoy Esports and love the heat of competition. I also enjoy being able to attend different Oasis events and take photos to capture memories for yearbook class,” he said. “I’ve recently joined the newly formed Dungeons and Dragons Club and have fun going to those meetings as well.”

O’Bryant will graduate in May with his high school diploma and then complete his associate degree in the summer. He plans to take an Alaskan cruise with his family to celebrate.

“My advice for future students is to turn things in on time and pay attention to due dates,” O’Bryant added.

Halloween and the Herd

Students roar from the bleachers, adorned in decorative make-up, costumes, and school pride. October is in full swing, and the herd is taking full advantage of the spooky atmosphere and showing off their creativity.

Throughout the month of October, the high school and service organizations celebrated this season through costume contests, autumn events and school pride. The Oasis FFA Chapter hosted its Halloween Costume Contest during their October meeting, and the Three Little Pigs (Lorena Rios, Eneyde Rios, and Dahlia Creer) won the most creative costume award.

The student council hosted a Halloween-themed volleyball night for student-athletes and offered candy apples for students on Halloween as well as host a school-wide costume contest. Additionally, the organization hosted a revamped version of its Autumn Kickback, and all high school students were invited to watch a movie, enjoy free snacks, and participate in games.

To learn more about events and October programming at the High School, contact Chief Academic Officer, Rochelle Tisdale at rtisdale@oanv.org.

— Hunter McNabb

Annual golf tournament a success

It was a beautiful day for the Fourth Annual Oasis Academy Golf Tournament on Oct. 21 at the Fallon Golf Course. The sold-out 18-hole scramble tournament teed off at 10 a.m.

The event benefited Oasis Student Activities including athletics and clubs and raised $18,622.

A huge thank you again to this year’s sponsors including Manpower of Northern Nevada, the City of Fallon, New Millennium, Tedford Tire, the Western Nevada College Foundation, Dos Kellys, Miles Construction, Classic Finishes, Nevada Dental Arts, Frank Woodliff, the Not New Shop, Churchill Banner Hospital, CC Communications, Hillside Dairy, The Dentist Office and the law firm of Mackedon, deBraga and Rowe.

Another large part of the tournament were the generous donations for the raffles and on course activities. Donors included Mt. Rose Ski Tahoe, Tahoe Donner Ski Resort, Diana Paul, Financial Horizons, Gold Dust West Carson City, Hiskett and Sons, In and Out, Chick-fil-a, Lauren Kelly, Bens Shot, Sean and Jenny Hiskett, Just Country Friends, Nevada Dental Arts, Smashin’ Good Time, Churchill County Swimming Pool, Hillside Dairy, Oasis Academy Student Council, Lauren Kelly, the Backroads Vintage Market and Frey Ranch Distillery.

“The community support was incredible,” said Rochelle Tisdale, chief academic officer. “It was a beautiful day on the course and the games and prizes were fun. The students are the benefactors of the community’s generosity, and I am so grateful.”