Talent Triumphs

Lopez Takes Mr. PHS Crown

Carley Higgins, Paolite Staff Writer|March 31, 2023

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Olivia McSpadden

Brody Wilcox does a high toe-touch as part of his dance.

A.J. Lopez and coordinator Mia Stroud celebrate his Mr. PHS win in their prize Ray-Ban sunglasses. (Olivia McSpadden)

The Mr. PHS competition took place on March 14 with a $5 admission fee. The event was sponsored by the junior class officers as a fundraiser for prom.

There were a total of 15 senior candidates, each one representing an organization at PHS. William Bottoms was unable to attend so only 14 competed.

Austin Benales hold the microphone out to the crowd during his talent. (Olivia McSpadden)

First the boys were asked an onstage question, next they competed in a physical fitness competition, then performed a talent and lastly showed off their evening wear.

“This year’s show was probably one of the best we’ve had. All of the participants and their coordinators were very well prepared. I’ve heard nothing but good things from everyone who came to watch the show. We were able to raise almost $3000 for the prom this year through registration fees, ticket sales and People’s Choice votes,” said Junior Class Sponsor Chris Jones.

Jacob Workman does a back-tuck during his talent portion of the competition. (Olivia McSpadden)

The four judges were Orange County Circuit Court Judge Steve Owen, retired choral director and music teacher Debra Stroud, former teacher and School Board President Lila Tucker and General Manager of Diamond Shores Broadcasting, Jerry Wall.

The 2023 Mr. PHS was A.J. Lopez, representing Drama Club. His coordinator was Mia Stroud.

River Fleming pies Austin Benales in the face and filling flies during his talent act. (Olivia McSpadden)

“I feel glad that the efforts I put into my piece were not in vain, and I am thankful for the opportunity to be able to help provide some entertainment,” said Lopez. “It was really good. Making sure I wasn’t too loud for the microphone when I played was the hardest part.”

People’s Choice, which was determined by the members of the audience, was also awarded. 15 buckets were placed outside of the auditorium, each with one of the candidates’ names on. The audience members would then place money in the bucket of the boy they believed should have won. At the end of the night, the candidate whose bucket had the most money in it would win the People’s Choice.

Adin Monroe flexes at the end of his dance as Amelia Hess throws confetti on him. (Olivia McSpadden)

This year’s People’s Choice was Austin Benales, representing Student Council. His coordinator was River Fleming.

“The club that I represented was the student council. It was a fun experience and I’m glad I won some money rather than nothing at all,” said Benales.