April 2016 by chris waugaman

R N ROYALNEWS

Prince George H.S. - 7801 Laurel Spring Rd. Prince George, VA 23875 - www.trnwired.org -April 15, 2016

STUDENTS PARTICIPATE IN NATIONAL DAY OF SILENCE p. 5 p. 8 STUDENTS RECEIVE ACCEPTANCE LETTERS FOR COLLEGE

p. 13 FOREIGN LANGUAGE CLASSES HOST TASTE OF CULTURE p. 19 INTEREST PEAKS IN LACROSSE PROGRAM

Volume XIV Issue 7 Free

Single Copy Only

Students cover Senior Sarah Chandler’s mouth to symbolize Day of Silence. Day of Silence has been nationally held since the 1990s. Photo by April Buckles.

Visit trnwired.org to see the latest photo galleries and watch live broadcast events.

2 | THE ROYAL NEWS | FRIDAY 4.15.16

OP/ED

theRoyalNews

Class of 2016

ur mission as the school

newspaper for Prince George High School is to provide a form of media that represents all aspects of student life. The goal is to present factual accounts of newsworthy events in a timely manner. Our publication will be informative, entertaining and reflective of the student body’s opinions. It is the desire of the staff to reach every student and tell as many of their stories as possible. We invite your commentary: The Royal News Opinion page is a forum for public discussion and shall be open to all students. The Royal News will print as many letters as space will allow. The Royal News reserves the right not to print a letter. The Royal News publishes a wide variety of opinions. Send letters to: Letters to the Editor, The Royal News, PGHS, 7801 Laurel Spring Road, Prince George, Virginia 23875, or bring them to room A2, or e-mail them to trnwired@gmail.com We reserve the right to edit for clarity, brevity, accuracy, legality, spelling and grammar. Please include your name, address and phone number. Anonymous letters will not be considered for publication. 500 word maximum. Thank you for the support this year. Please continue to communicate on trnwired.org. Publication theft. A person commits the offense of publication theft when he or she willfully or knowingly obtains or exerts unauthorized control over more than three copies of an edition of a publication distributed on campus or in the surrounding community [with the intent to prevent other individuals from reading that edition of the publication]. A “publication” includes any periodical that is distributed on a complimentary or compensatory basis. In addition to the imposition of other campus disciplinary penalties, a person who violates this provision is responsible for compensating the publication for all reasonable costs incurred, including, where appropriate, the refund of advertising fees.

Section Editors Front page/Briefs: April Buckles, Op/Ed: Alexis Stewart, Features: Ryan Albright & Brooke Guerrero, Doubletruck: Hydeia Nutt, A&E: Chance Thweatt Sports: Madison Strang and Paul Dennis, Jr., Photo Editor: Ebony Gilchrist - Business & Ad Editor: Daniel Puryear, Online Editor-in-Chief: Alesondra Adams-Special Edition Editor-In-Chief Madison Strang and Ebony Gilchrist

Writers Aaliyah Capers- Katherine Iwanski- Madison FosterWayne Coleman- Morgan Eminhizer- Willow HartCarlee Lively- Jacob Wood - Mavaney Keel Julian Whichard

Editor-in-Chief Ryan Albright

Managing Editor Daniel Puryear

Business Manager Daniel Puryear

Adviser

Chris Waugaman

Professional affiliations & awards Columbia Scholastic Press Associations Gold Medalist 2008-2015 CSPA Gold Crown Winner 2010, 2013, 2014, 2015 Virginia High School Association Trophy Class 2006-2013 & 2015 Col. Charles Savedge Award for Sustained Excellence 2010 NSPA Online Pacemaker Winner 2011, 2013, 2014, 2015 SIPA All Southern 2008-2016

The Royal News, PGHS trnwired.org

7801 Laurel Spring Road Prince George, Virginia 23875 804-733-2720 The Royal News is printed at The Progress-Index in Petersburg, Virginia

School Board Proposes New Tax Plan

T Illustration by Nicholas Branch

Mandatory Senior Meetings Put Athletes In Bind

very year, since the mid 2000s, there have been mandatory senior meetings that seniors and at least one parent have to attend to be able to participate in the graduation ceremony on graduation day. The meetings are mandatory because administration wants to make sure that both the students and parents are aware of all the senior activities coming up, along with other important details about the ceremony itself. “[The senior meetings are mandatory] to highlight all the wonderful senior activities such as convocation, senior bash, baccalaureate, and the senior trip that are all coming up,” Principal Mike Nelson said. “A lot of the time, the students may know that these activities are going on, but not the parents. Another thing we touch on is parking and the expectations of graduation, since it is such a formal ceremony. We also go over ‘Plan B’ for graduation day, which is if we have to move inside.” This year, the first meeting took place on April 12th at 7 PM and the other two take place on April 20th at 7 PM, and April 25th at 7:30 PM. Problems arose with the dates of the meetings when they were first announced, where the final one was changed from

April 26th to the 25th, because spring athletes could not make any of the dates. “We did have to change the date to the 25th to accommodate athletes. The only problem that might have occurred was with softball, because they had a game on the 25th,” Nelson said. Due to it being spring, there is almost always some inclement weather that causes rain outs of sports games. That could be another problem that could ensue from only having one date in which spring athletes can attend. If they have a game rained out and it is rescheduled for the 25th, then they will not be able to attend any of the meetings without missing a game. “If there would have been a problem with athletes not being able to make one of the meetings because of games, we would have created a fourth meeting for those athletes. Since they are committed to both their sports team and graduation, that would be fair, ” Nelson said. Luckily for the seniors who needed to attend the meetings, there was inclement weather on April 12th, so many seniors took advantage of the rain outs and attended the first meeting. Let’s just hope we don’t have to depend on rain to help find a way for seniors to meet these requirements in future years.

he Board of Supervisors made an important decision last Wednesday regarding the tax rates in Prince George. This decision was not just some political nonsense that no citizen should care about; it directly affects every citizen in Prince George including the stuDANIEL PURYEAR dents. This $0.04 real estate increase to $0.86 on every 100 dollars could save the schools tens of thousands of dollars. No one likes to raise taxes, usually those in favor of tax raises are against it, also, in a way. The school system is struggling financially and has been seen in the large classes, lack of teachers, and poor health insurance for teachers. The school board is making significant movements to try and help revitalize the finances of the school system including showing their support of this tax increase. Superintendent Renee Williams, Assistant Superintendent Lisa Pennycuff, chair of the school board Kevin Foster, and board member Reeve Ashcraft were all in attendance on the meeting Wednesday to show their support including a speech from Reeve Ashcraft in the public hearing time. Including board member Ashcraft, two citizens spoke in the public hearing section regarding the tax cuts. Engo Radant spoke against the tax cuts stating that there are new homes and new businesses in the county, therefore there is no reason for new taxes. The board will not formally hear comments on the proposed budget until April 26th, but the board unanimously supported the resolution of adding the $0.04 increase. Chair supervisor Bill Robertson, made the comment after the public hearing that in his 13 years on the board, he has never supported a tax raise, but that it has been long enough and is much needed in the county right now.

FRIDAY 4.15.16 | THE ROYAL NEWS | 3

OP/ED

Month of the Military Child

In the month of April, Military Child’s Month is celebrated to honor the important role that military children play with the military. Being a military child comes with its many challenges and sacrifices, due to their parents demanding, heroic careers. Some may see being a military child as having many benefits, for example, being able to travel and live in many different places. Does being a military child have its benefits or do they experience challenges that no child should experience at such a young age?

hen civilians, or people unfamiliar with our nation’s guardians, hear “military life” their thoughts immediately jump to the personnel themselves. Much appreciation is given to our military, but what most civilians do not recognize is that there are children behind the soldiers. And though tremendous sacrifices are made by our military everyday, their children also play a major role and give up many things to stand by their enlisted parents. Though military children are not on the front lines or held to any danger directly, these children have a place in helping maintain our country’s freedom. As children, they make sacrifices. These sacrifices may be: adjusting to their parents extensive work hours, relocation, or having a parent deployed for a long period of time. “Military brats” give back to our nation in a way that many do not appreciate. Through their sacrifices, military kids develop many characteristics that help them lead lives that many children never get the chance to experience. This lifestyle may be intimidating for many civilians. But military children are adaptable to many situations, preparing them for bright futures; and in most cases, directly sacrificing their lives to protect our country in the footsteps of their parents. They also tend to connect with other military children to help optimize the cons of the lifestyle that many would dread having. As civilians we should appreciate military children and their many indirect, but crucial roles in our country’s fight to keep freedom. And through the cons of the military lifestyle, these kids find the silver lining, and make their role one that many should get to experience, but few get to have.

PRO CON BROOKE GUERRERO

ALESONDRA ADAMS

“Through their sacrifices, military kids develop many characteristics that help them lead lives that many children never get the chance to experience ...” “Furthermore, military children are found to be more depressed than the average child ...” “ This lifestyle may be intimidating for many civilians. But military children are adaptable to many situations, preparing them for bright futures ...”

hough there are benefits to being a military child, such as being able to meet new people and travel the world, the incessant travel and absence of an active duty member are just a few of the problems with being a military brat. According to dosomething.org, military families relocate ten times more than regular families. Furthermore, military children are found to be under more stress and anxiety than the average child according to a May 2015 article on www.army.mil With the constant traveling from state to state, and often from country to country, military children are forced to adapt quickly to new surroundings, which could either lead to a verbose child or an introverted child. Moreover, if one were to move from a place such as Georgia to Virginia, he or she would be forced to learn new material that he previously did not learn at his school in Georgia. This creates a problem: not only does he have to adapt to a new state, but now he must keep up with his new class in order to maintain good grades in class. Additionally, it is harder for military children to make and keep friendships without having to pick up and leave in a few short months or years, thus creating a child who is shy and may be slightly depressed. With traveling comes the frequent absence of one, or both parents. Military children are forced to grow up faster than a civilian child. The absence of a parent may also be the cause of depression within a military child. It may be harder to focus due to the new environment that the child is being introduced to and the mother or father frequently missing due to the long hours that active duty members of the military have to endure.

Illustration by Nicholas Branch

4 | THE ROYAL NEWS | FRIDAY 4.15.16

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FRIDAY 4.15.16 | THE ROYAL NEWS | 5

FEATURES

Students Participate in National Day of Silence

Event Brings Awareness to LGBT Discrimination in Schools Willow Hart TRN Writer

he halls may seem more quiet on Friday, April 15th as students stand together to raise awareness for LGBT discrimination. Gay Straight Alliance members are participating in the Gay Lesbian Straight Education Network Day of Silence. Students that choose to participate will stay silent and carry around a card that tells why they are staying silent. “National Day of Silence is mainly to draw attention to any type of misgivings or rude things that happen to people who aren’t necessarily straight,” junior and GSA spokesperson Justin Daniels said. “That doesn’t encompass any general sexuality it’s just drawing attention to any particular person who may be mistreated.” GLSEN, an organization developed to ensure a safe atmosphere in schools, began the National Day of Silence in 1990. High schools and college campuses are given the ability to participate in this event because of their First Amendment rights. “Anyone can participate, we are kind of running it like an in-school field trip so kids can get a field trip form from me, get their teachers to sign it and then I will put them on a list to go out to teachers,” GSA sponsor Catherine Beasley said. GSA received shirts and cards for the students to possess during the day to bring more awareness to their cause. “The kids basically choose to be silent during the day and they have a card that they can hand out with the information about what the Day of Silence is, why they are participating, and what other people can do to support it,” Beasley said. Some students may still take part in academic discussion, while remaining silent outside of the classroom. Others may choose to stay inactive on social media for

the day. “It doesn’t necessarily affect the school day,” Beasley said. “The people who participate choose to be silent and they tell their teachers that they want to be silent, but if they are in class and they need to speak to participate then they can.”

GSA Co-President Fayeth Smith holds her hands to her mouth to symbolize the day of silence. Smith attributes her desire to participate to her being bullied. Photo by Willow Hart.

BRIEFLY SADD Club Senior SADD club members can now order their graduation cords for $15 a piece, if they participated in at least two club activities. Turn in order and money on April 29th to avoid late fee.

Senior Meetings Seniors, mandatory senior meetings are on the following dates: April 20th at 7 PM and April 25th at 7:30 PM. You must attend one of the three meetings, with a parent or guardian to participate in the graduation ceremony.

Prom Tickets

A n average person speaks a b o u t 20,000 words a day, so making the transition may be difficult for some students. “I have never actually been able to stay silent for a day so I’m really curious to see if I’m actually going to be able to do it,” junior and GSA Co-President Fayeth Smith said. “But it is something I feel very strongly for and about so I think I am going to be able to do it.” While these students are choosing to stay silent, those who are not participating are encouraged to consider the adversity people in the LGBT community face when they are harassed, bullied, and called derogatory names. “It is supposed to resemble people calling us names for being what we are and so we call it the Day of Silence so we

Prom tickets went on sale on April 13th and can be purchased in the commons during lunch. They are $20 per person or $35 per couple, if purchased at the same time. Tickets must be shown at the doors to enter Prom. Please see Mrs. Roberts in A4 or Mrs. Bolyard in D13 if you have questions. don’t let it affect us,” Smith said. While the country has taken steps to become more LGBT tolerate, people still face harsh discrimination about their sexuality, therefore producing the cause for this national event. “When I first came out about being bisexual when I was in the eighth grade, I got bullied really heavily for it,” Smith said. “My school didn’t really have a club like this but I am happy that this school does.” The silence that the participating members will put forth symbolizes the silence that is caused by LGBT discrimination. “People should not let their voices be taken,” Smith said. “No matter how small they think it is.”

Date Forms Date forms for Prom can be picked up at the front office, on the junior class bulletin board in the commons, or outside either(A4) or (D13) classrooms. Forms must be returned to the front office for approval and no later than April 26th. Tickets for your date cannot be purchased until an approval decision has been made.

6 | THE ROYAL NEWS | FRIDAY 4.15.16

FEATURES

Suicide Prevention Programs at School Program Signs of Suicide Helps Students Who Struggle with Mental Illnesses Madison Foster TRN writer

uicide is the tenth leading cause of death in the United States. On average, there are 117 suicides daily, with more that are unknown and only attempted. Depression can cause serious harm, like thoughts of suicide, self-harm, drug and alcohol addictions, and much more. Since 2006, Prince George High School has implemented The Signs of Suicide program to help students struggling with mental wellness. Students reported that it would help middle schoolers as well, so the SOS program was established at N.B. Clements Junior High and J.E.J. Moore Middle School following PGHS. The program is given to all students through Health and PE classes for 6th, 8th and 10th graders. School psychiatrist Sandy Correll has been very passionate about this program since it was first researched, and following the loss of students to suicide. “Students have provided feedback over the years and greater than 90% of students have indicated that this is useful information for them,” Correll said. The SOS presentations have reached out to many students struggling with depression and signs of suicide. “I feel very passionate about the importance of this program and it has the backing of the school board,” Correll said. School board chairman Kevin Foster strongly supports the program. “Student achievement and academic successes are directly impacted by a child’s overall mental health,” Foster said. To be successful in school, a student needs a stable and strong mental, emotional, and physical health. “We are fortunate to employ talented school psychologists to assist our teachers and guidance counselors when students need help,” Foster said.

After the SOS presentations are given by physical education teachers, all students are asked to fill out a response card that either says they need to talk to someone or do not need to talk to someone, based on the information given in the DVD. If a student responds with needing someone to talk to, the student is then referred to a guidance counselor who can help them. Prince George County Schools get their program from mentalhealthscreening.org. The programs are designed to educate students about symptoms of depression, suicide, and self-injury in themselves and their peers.

Signs of suicide and depression include the following: talking about wanting to kill oneself, finding ways of hurting oneself, feeling hopeless, being withdrawn or isolated from everyone, and more. “Many suicide attempts go unnoticed and everyone should take the initiative to bring more awareness about suicide and other mental illnesses,” Foster said. The program given throughout Prince George can educate students about prevention skills such as the acronym ACT (Acknowledge, Care, Tell), and ways to identify a trusted adult in their school community that they feel comfortable with about themselves or their friends. You are to acknowledge that someone is strug-

Photo Illustration created by Madison Foster & Kattie Iwanski. gling, let them know you care about them and tell a trusted adult. Suicide prevention is important for every school to incorporate into education because it can save lives and it educates people on a topic that is very critical to teens nowadays. “Students, teachers and parents should be aware of the signs of depression and suicide because it affects people of all ages especially teenagers in a time of being stressed,” Foster said.

FRIDAY 4.15.16 | THE ROYAL NEWS | 7

Sebera’s Custard Kitchen Go Royals! Call 732-0990 6335 Courthouse Road Prince George, VA 23875

Prince George Fire & EMS

Celebrates National Volunteer Week April 10-16, 2016

Our volunteers give the best gifts of all- thmselves! We recognize and thank our volunteers who give so much to our community

‘Neighbors helping Neighbors’

fireems@princegeorgeva.org (804) 722-8614

8| THE ROYAL NEWS | FRIDAY 4.15.16

FEATURES

Students Receive Acceptance Letters for College

Dejanae Gibson Explains Decision Process, What Getting Her Acceptance Letters Means to Her Manavey Keel TRN Writer

nxiety is in the air: it’s the season for stress, and time for tension. For some it seems like a life or death decision: college. Your parents and teachers, counselors and relatives weight down on you like a two ton barbell, echoing with the maddening repetition of the same old question: ‘Are you going to college?’ “College, for me, is just another step to reaching my goals” senior, Dejanae Gibson said. “[I’m choosing to attend college] to further my knowledge and increase my chances of getting a higher paying job and it adds to my experience.” Some students choose to go directly into the workforce when they graduate high school and others go on a different path to college. It is a completely unique experience, definitely separate from anything you would experience while still in high school. Lots of college kids are there just for the experience and the other half of the students are setting a foundation for their future and hopefully careers. Acceptance letters are another factor that could either make or break you. Constantly wondering whether or not the mailbox will hold the ‘key to your future’. “I got acceptance letters from Penn State and the University of Florida. To not get into my ‘dream school’ was disappointing (University of Texas), but I did get into Penn State. It was really exciting and a sigh of relief because my hard work had paid off,” Gibson said. After hopefully narrowing your choices of campuses to the few you would like to apply to, you may feel prepared enough to choose your major, which for many is even more challenging than choosing a school. “I chose journalism. However, I might go for a general mass communication degree,” Gibson said. “I love to write and make news known

to the public,” Gibson said. “All of these colleges had my major, UT and Penn State have awesome journalism programs and student magazines.” There are an abundance of influences that can sway the way you think and which college you attend. “My mom attended UT and UF so, that inspired me to apply for those.” She made the decision to apply to Penn State, Baylor University, University of Texas, and the University of Florida. Which college? Where? What’s your major? Have you saved any money? The galling strain of these interrogations are anything but reassuring. In spite of the seemingly deadly, college and the decisions that follow do not have to be so terrifying. There are an

abundance of resources that are extremely accessible and that is exactly what some seniors here at Prince George are doing: utilizing their surroundings. Gibson says she went to guidance for advice and help with sending her transcripts. She also said that she used websites like fastweb.com for scholarships and collegeboard.com for her SAT scores and general college information. Her parents were a big help and gave her advice and answered her questions. She also used an SAT book to study for her SATs. Like many students, Gibson used her resources and her journey to college is smooth sailing. “It’s really difficult to juggle college stuff and school work because you have to maintain both,” Gibson said. “It was stressful during that time, and I tried very

Senior Dejanae Gibson stands with the Penn State Nittany Lion, on University Park Campus in Pennsylvania. Gibson was accepted into Penn State and is going there in the fall. Photo provided by Dejanae Gibson. hard to be proactive and get applications, and scholarships. I also made a matrix that kept me organized about my selected colleges.” Whether students choose to attend college or not, life is what you make it. Even if it seems like the never ending responsibilities that come with just applying for college will never stop, there are people at Prince George that help with tasks like that everyday. There are resources all around you that are waiting to help you fulfil your dreams.

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Thank You Patrons! GREEN SUPER Leann & Roy Binger William Havard Stephanie Bishop Amy Iwanski Clarence & Mattie Thweatt Debbie Semien Ryan Albright Kevin and Tara Foster Kevin and Madison Foster GOLD W.D. Winterson Kim Bailey Varsity Boys Basketball Margaret Adams Debbie Jenks Debbie Bohman

Mr. Hanzlik S.B. Jones Kristee Lively Andy Stables Lisa Stables Jim’s Hopewell Barber Shop German Club

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Patrons Sierra Walls Phillip Jones Cross Country Team Bryan Griffin April Ford

If you would like to become a patron, please stop by A2 or ask any staff member how you can donate, so that Royals Media can continue to provide quality media to Prince George students.

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12 | THE ROYAL NEWS | FRIDAY 04.15.16

A&E Gamer's Corner & Critic Review

Uncharted 4: A Thief’s End

nfamous treasure hunter, Nathan Drake, is set to return to consoles May 10, 2016 in Uncharted 4: A Thief’s End. The game will be developed by Naughty Dog, a video game company that was acquired by Sony in 2001, which has developed the entire franchise. The Uncharted franchise has sold over 21 million copies with Uncharted 3 selling 3.8 million copies the day it was released in 2012. Nathan Drake has retired with his wife, Elena Fisher, to a life of easy sailing compared to the life of an adventurer. Drake wants to start the next chapter of his life by not having to worry about dodging bullets and watching his back, but these dreams all come to a halt when Nathan’s brother Sam, who was believed to be

Matt Reed

dead, seeks his help to find the treasure of the notorious pirate Henry Avery, and his famed ship called The Fancy. Captain Avery got away with gold and jewels equivalent to $400 million before mysteriously vanishing. The fancy holds the treasure that any explorer would love to find but it also poses as a chance for Nathan to bond with Sam after all the years he was gone. This bonding will be ended a ruthless group called Shoreline, led by Nadine Ross, are willing to eliminate anyone in the way of Captain Avery’s loot. The race between Drake’s team and Shoreline takes off in Madagascar where the two camps stay in constant combat. Uncharted 4 is supposed to have different stealth elements to help the player avoid combat, hide from pursuers, and rethink the strategy on attacking the enemy. This is set to be the last installment of the uncharted series and based on the title gamers can infer that either Nathan Drake will perish in the closing of the game or this will indeed be the treasure hunters last adventure.

Photos courtesy of Dualshockers.com and Gamespot.com

Season Two of Empire Returns

he ground breaking, innovative phenomenon, Fox prime time soap opera TV series, Empire, has become a household name that influences today’s music, fashion, and culture. The show first debuted on January 7, 2015, receiving a 9.90 rating, which was the best ratings for Fox in years and is continuing to increase its viewership as the show progresses. The show is centered around the hip-hop music entertainment company, ”Empire”, which caters to drama surrounded by the family as they fight over who will take over the company. The show stars Academy Award nominees Taraji P. Henson and Terrence Howard as the two leading roles of the series. The show is currently airing its second season, after running a very successful first season. The show was recently renewed for a third season on January 15, 2016. The show is known for its content of family and relationship drama story lines that fans can relate to. The show is a musical drama, with music being a major influence in the overall show, with new music

being introduced in every new episode that has topped billboard music charts. The second half of the second season premiered on March 30, 2016 to continue the story line that was left off on the last episode. The episode follows the death of Rhonda’s and Andre baby and Hakeem becoming CEO of Empire entertainment. The episode opens up to Hakeem doing a press release where he announces the positions that his family members will obtain within the company and his plans for the company’s future ventures. While Hakeem is performing his new single at the press conference, he reveals the new company logo, which previously featured Luscious’ face, and now features his face instead. Later in the episode, Andre and Rhonda discuss what or whom would have caused her accident that ultimately killed their baby, which causes a

Alexis Stewart

drift in their relationship. This episode elaborates on the changes that Camille is making, since she was placed as head of Empires board. She cuts Luscious’ music video budget and cancels Tiana’s upcoming tour, which sparks the family effort to get her off the board. This causes the family to come up with various plans to get rid of her ,so they can save the family’s legacy. The episode leaves us with Mimi finally finding out about

Photo published from Fox.com Camille’s motives, due to her finding out, Camille ends up poisoning Mimi, which is the ultimate cause of her death. Luscious, witnessing the murder, threatens Camille that he will turn her into the police or she can do herself a favor by committing suicide. The episode leaves us not knowing what happens to Camille, which leaves the episode off on a cliffhanger. New episodes air every Wednesday at 9 PM on Fox.

FRIDAY 4.15.16 | THE ROYAL NEWS | 13

A&E

Foreign Language Classes Host Taste of Culture

Different Cultural Foods Combine To Further Connect With Foreign Languages

Madison Foster TRN Writer

ith delectable foreign dishes and the opportunity to try new foods, Prince George High School held their annual Taste of Culture event on April 14th 2016. About 220 students are attending this year from the three foreign language classes offered at PGHS. Students that are enrolled in a foreign language were invited to the event and had to choose a recipe from the countries where the language they are taking is spoken. “I really enjoy the enthusiasm that

the Taste of Culture generates,” French teacher Kandie Bradshaw said. “I try to sample my students’ dishes because they are proud of their accomplishment.” Recipes were prepared and then shared in the commons for classmates to sample. The countries where one speaks French, German, and Spanish were the cultures represented at the Taste of Culture. French speaking countries include parts of Africa, Belgium and of course France. The Hispanic culture has many diverse ethnic cultures represented from Spain, central and South America and the islands of the Caribbean. “I am very proud of my student’s participation and remark that the food is not only tasty, but beautifully presented,” Bradshaw said. Teachers do not prepare dishes but often ask students for their recipes to

make on their own time. Students can chose any recipe from a country where their language is spoken. It can be desserts, appetizers, dinner food, breakfast food, or anything that they chose to. Teachers approved recipes before the event to make sure there are not any repeats of dishes. Sophomore Courtney Smith and Junior CeCe Ivy attended the cultural event. “I was looking forward to hanging out with my friends and eating lots of food. I prepared a dish called beignets, it is a French pastry made from fried dough,” Smith said. Smith’s recipe is one of her favorites and she enjoys making it on her own time for her family and friends. Smith took into account what dish would be easiest to make for a numerous amount of people as well as what seems like most people would want to try. Ivy also made a French dessert,

Wearing a traditional German dirndl, senior Gillian Becraft tries some of the dishes students brought in for Taste of Culture. Becraft participated by bringing in a German apple cake known as an “Apfelkuchen”. Photo by Wessam Hazaymeh. chocolate eclairs, because it is one of her family’s favorite. She has been to the taste of culture before and enjoys the atmosphere of the event. “I see what all the different dishes are because it is food I don’t normally eat,” Ivy said. “Then I eat a lot, especially the deserts.” This event was a great way to showcase foods from all different cultures from countries where students take foreign languages from. “I looked forward to being with my friends and eating food that goes with our different languages,” Ivy said.

14 | THE ROYAL NEWS | FRIDAY 4.15.16

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A&E

Scholly Provides Easy Access to Scholarships

New App Helps Students Find Scholarships, Afford Higher Education Aaliyah Capers TRN Writer

ccording to fastweb. com, over 2.9 billion dollars in scholarships goes unclaimed each year. Scholly is an app designed to help rising college students get the help they need when finding scholarships that fit the situations of the student. Scholly bases your search results on your field of interest, your location, and what you do as extracurricular activities. “The goal is to take [out] the least amount of loans because when you start taking [out] loans, that’s when you start to get into debt,” guidance counselor and head of scholarship application April Ford said. Scholly is on Google Play and the App Store for $2.99. The app may seem expensive but could save a lot. “I am all about saving money but spending three dollars wouldn’t be that bad for something that could potentially save you over thousands of dollars,” Ford said. Scholly does not have a limit on how many scholarships you can apply for. “Even if it is a small amount of scholarship money it still helps,” senior Wendy Archer said. Scholly helps you keep track of all the money you have received using the app and it keeps track of when your deadlines are to complete the applications for the scholarships on time. “Guidance helps a lot with finding scholarships and helping you apply for colleges,” Archer said. The guidance counselors have all recommended to do some research at home. Scholly can help you look for different scholarships without the hassle of looking through different search engines. “It sounds silly but just Google stuff, especially Google stuff that is specific to you, like, if you’re an athlete or you want to major in a certain thing that way you can find

something that’s very specific for you and also something that may not everyone be applying to because then your chances are slimmer,” Ford said. Looking for scholarships should happen towards the beginning of your senior year so when summer comes you would not have to stress out over finding scholarships so you can afford to go to college. Also starting early in the years will help you prepare for applying. “We give [seniors] information right away, probably in October, a scholarship guide. So, then from there we give them a weekly list; it’s mostly for local things in the area so they [seniors] really shouldn’t have to look very far,” Ford said. Applying for scholarships does not only have to be done during senior year. Fewer than 50% of students, according to fastweb. com, apply for scholarships before their se-

nior year. “March, April, and May are the busiest times for scholarships because most of the due dates are around that time. I do something with scholarships every day, whether that’s updating the list or someone coming in and printing transcripts or letters of recommendations and a lot of times they have a part where the counselor needs to fill it out,”Ford said. The guidance counselors have set up a Facebook and a Twitter to help keep students informed of new scholarships and stay updated on what scholarships are due in the coming weeks. “It wouldn’t hurt for you to start looking for scholarships as a junior but most scholarships are only for seniors,” guidance counselor Nancy Odum said. There are many scholarships that you do not have to be a senior to qualify for.

A student views the home screen of the Scholly App. The Scholly App is $2.99 on the App Store. Photo by Matteo Reed. “When I used Scholly, I put in all my information and they gave me a list of scholarships based off my information but some of the scholarships that came up I didn’t qualify for,” senior Jack Paul said. However, Odum cautions to not give out too much information. Scholly does give you a range of options to choose from, and helps reduce the stress of looking for scholarships using Google or other search engines.

16 | THE ROYAL NEWS| FRIDAY 4.15.16

SPRING SPORTS Athlete Juggles Two Spring Sports

Athletes Expected To Adjust To New Expectations In Stride

Managing Team Time, Balancing Commitments Top List Of Obstacles

Wayne Coleman TRN Writer

ith baseball, soccer, and the start of outdoor track, it is tough to find an athlete who is managing to participate in more than one sport. One of these student athletes is junior Trevor Greene. Greene plays four sports throughout the year, and with four AP level classes, it is a slight stretch. “It [sports] takes away from the time I have for my AP classes,” Greene said. “I try to get everything done as soon as possible; [it hasn’t yet] but sometimes it doesn’t work. Soccer varsity head coach Tommy Harrison understands this well, and understands the stress of a multi-sport athlete. Track coach William Stevens also has experience in dealing with versatile athletes. He has a trained eye in noticing the difference in an athlete of one or many sports. Due to his expertise, he makes sure to carefully plan out his players’ schedules.

“When we are able to catch them [conflicts], we go to administration to see if we can resolve the issue,” Harrison said. Coach Stevens encourages his team to go to their other coaches, and resolve issues. Both coaches are also aware of the importance of their athletes’ education, and have different methods to help their players. Coach Stevens tries to stay on top of his team’s marks in the classroom. “I work very closely with the counselors; I always give time for the students for their schoolwork, even if it means missing a practice,” said Stevens in a phone interview. Practice is important to any team; however, Coach Harrison is aware the kids have to hit the books. “I make the maximum practice two hours,” Harrison said. He encourages the students to do school work on off time. “I encourage varsity player to go home and work during home games. I encourage them to study during away games,” Harrison said. “As soon as the season really begins, I make sure to give them a few days to relax.” When the players have coaches willing to work with them like this, they have the energy to give their coach full effort. Both coaches see great things in Trevor’s play, with few flaws.

Junior Trevor Greene proceeds to pass the soccer ball to a fellow Royal against Highland Springs. Greene also runs track for Coach William Stevens. Photo by Daniel Puryear. “His strength is that he has quickness, he seems to have a nose for the goal, and he takes as good shots as anyone on the team,” Harrison said. The ability to adjust is crucial in playing more than one sport as well. “He’ll do anything you ask him, that’s one of his best attributes as an athlete, and as a kid,” said Stevens. Unfortunately, with difficult classes and multiple after-school activities,time is a constant weakness. “One of his weaknesses is he wants to do everything, but he doesn’t have the time for it,” said Stevens. His teammates also agree that his play speaks for itself. Sophomore Grant Miller has been impressed by his versatile teammate. “His strength are he’s good at making friends. He’s a good teammate, he works hard, he’s heard on himself,” Miller said. “He adjusts to the game, and he makes smart decision on the field.”

n the world of athletics, it is not unusual and actually pretty common for athletes to feel overwhelmed. With the stress of performing well in the classroom, getting things done at home, and overachieving on the field, things can get very busy for the average player. Do not expect them to get Paul Dennis Jr. easier anytime soon, as the minimum GPA every D1 athlete must have is now 2.3, and other colleges are raising the bar substantially on all levels. The time where you could get by with horrible grades due to freak athleticism is over. Instead, your GPA and how hard you work in the classroom is being looked at first and foremost. The term “Student Athlete” used to be what you called anyone who went to school and played sports, and that was all it was. But now, players must understand that they are a “Student” first and it is the most important element to playing a sport in college. This does not mean that improving your game and skills are no longer important. It just forces athletes to face facts. The reality is, in our time, you will not get by with horrible grades coupled with good or great athleticism. It does not matter how good you are, if you are not eligible to play. However, if you are great in the classroom, and have good or average skills on the field, the opportunities will still come and from there on you can still grow as a player. Success is not, and has never just been given. It is earned. Earned on the field, on the track, on the mat, on the court, in the weight room, and in the classroom. No one determines how good you are and no one can determine how good you can become. That is why it is crucial for student athletes to motivate themselves, not just to become a better athlete, but a better student. Doing so, studentathletes can better achieve their dreams and pursue their lifelong ambitions.

FRIDAY 4.15.16 | THE ROYAL NEWS | 17

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18 | THE ROYAL NEWS | FRIDAY 4.15.16

PH TOGALLERY Royals Defeat Blue Devils 5-0 FAR LEFT: Sophomore Courtney Smith sends a goal kick to her teammate. Smith is the center back and anchors the defense. Photo by Daniel Puryear. LEFT: Junior Alexis Harrell defends the goal from the Blue Devil offense. The defense kept the Blue Devils scoreless with the help of junior goalie Rachel Hughes. Photo by Daniel Puryear.

RIGHT: Senior Sarah Tinker prepares to pass the ball to her teammate. Tinker cored a total of three goals and earned her first hat trick of the season. Photo by Daniel Puryear. For more photos of the girls soccer game versus Hopewell go to www.trnwired.smugmug.com

ABOVE: Junior outside midfielder Mariah Ramirez sends the ball down field. The Lady Royals improved to 3-0 after the win over Hopewell. Photo by Daniel Puryear.

FRIDAY 4.15.16 | THE ROYAL NEWS | 19

SPRING SPORTS

Senior Spotlight

Interest Peaks in Lacrosse Program

Brandon Pearce

Baseball

Athletic Director Explains Challenges Surrounding Creation Of Lacrosse Team

Jacob Wood TRN Writer t is a sport unlike any other. It uses sticks like field hockey, but instead of hitting the ball, you can scoop it up and carry it. You score in a net like soccer, but the ball can be taken behind the goal and still be considered in play. This sport is la-

crosse. The school hosts many sport programs, including more popular activities such as basketball, soccer, track and field, baseball, softball, and of course, football. It also hosts less popular, but just as important sports, like field hockey, cross country, tennis, volleyball, and even a golf team. There are both hopes and doubts circulating around the issue of possibly creating a lacrosse team. “...Nothing against the sport, it’s just the question of whether we have the resources and capabilities to operate such a sport,” coathletic director, Hezekiah Butler said. According to Butler, operating the team could cost as much as a couple hundred thousand dollars. “The plausibility revolves around our challenges and deficits which includes money, space present, and we have to be aware of our common opponents and who has a team that we could regularly play,” Butler said. “Many (schools) do not.” Thomas Dale has lacrosse listed as a sport, but currently no schools in our district or conference have a lacrosse team. Whether or not there is a big enough interest level in playing lacrosse is another issue. “I enjoy lacrosse, [but] if you want to start a sport like that, you would have to start at the youth level,” Butler said. “If you start at a youth level, the fundamentals are being taught and interest is being generated.” Financing the sport and finding adequate playing space for the team to practice and hold games is another issue. “[It is] not financially realistic to put a lacrosse team together right now. [It is] a sport that is roughly less expensive than football with all the equipment and playing space,” Butler said.

How long have you been playing baseball? “Since I was four years old, I played on the Virginia Tigers.” What do you love most about the sport? “That’s a hard question, probably the bond I have built with my team. We are like family.”

Playing space is already stretched thin, with football using the field house, track using the track, girls soccer uses the high school field, baseball and softball using the baseball and softball diamonds, and boys soccer who have to ride to the old J.E.J. Moore/Health Center to practice. “We are talking about fielding four teams: Boys Varsity and JV, Girls Varsity and JV,” Butler said. “We are currently operating on a less than sufficient budget and [finding] the space for practice and facilities is a daily challenge.” With only three or four facilities vacant at a time, including the old J.E.J. Moore field or building (whichever is not in use) finding space to field lacrosse would be a major challenge. “I was not around when field hockey first began, but from my understanding it developed at ‘grass roots’ level, with youth leagues and travel programs,” Butler said. “As interest grew, as well as to complete a Title IX requirement, it was introduced at the Junior Varsity and Varsity level at PGHS.” The hope is that one day, just like field

Junior Palmer Martin (left) and senior Cole Hodges of Hanover get ready for a game. Hanover is one of the few surrounding counties with a school lacrosse program. Photo provided by Candid Color. hockey, enough interest will be generated to start youth leagues and travel programs, which will evolve into an official school team. “Interest and a small amount of sport competency is needed to elicit the expense necessary to generate the development of a Royal Lacrosse team,” Butler said. This means that only if sufficient interest in playing for the school is presented, then the costs of funding the program would prove to be a worthwhile investment. Despite the enormous challenges that the school would encounter, there is still a possibility that a lacrosse team would one day be a reality in Prince George. “If there was a sizeable interest, we’d have to do our due diligence and consider it,” Butler said.

What position do you play and what do you like about that position? “I play pitcher and I honestly love being in control of the game.” What made you start playing baseball? “My dad played, so I started and I have loved it since I began. My dad has influenced me the whole way.” How do you feel about it being your last year playing? “I’ve tried not to think about it; it’s surreal. I think it is crazy that it’s my last year and I’ve been playing varsity for four years now.” What kind of legacy do you want to leave behind on the field? ”I wanna know that I gave my all to the team and left that on the field. That’s what I’d like to leave behind.”

varsity Away varsity Home varsity Home varsity >> >> >> Spring >> Home softball game girls tennis baseball game boys soccer game against Lee Davis match against against Hopewell against Matoaca on Sports on Mon., April Meadowbrook on on Thur., April 28th, Tues., May 3rd, at

UPCOMING EVENTS

25th, at 6:00 PM.

Tues., April 26th, at 4:30 PM.

at 6:00 PM.

7:00 PM.

Softball Plans To Overcome Infusion Of Youth Carlee Lively TRN Writer

s her eyes scan the whole diamond, everything seems to melt away except the game. Looking out to her teammates, she sees many new faces. With the new softball season starting, so do new relationships, skills, and developments that come with a fresh, young team. The roster this year includes 7 sophomores out of a team of 14 players. “The varsity team has gained many new players and we all get along like as if we were a family. My teammates all show determination and strive for their best,” sophomore Miranda Carmichael said. As a returning player, Carmichael is the starting catcher this year, with hopes of using last year’s experience to make her better this year. Starting as a tee-ball player and continuing up into softball, Carmichael has 12 years of experience in this sport. The levels of softball increase in speed and skill set as a player gets older. Tee-ball is the start, slow pitch, and then finally fast pitch. “Over the years, softball [has been] a getaway,” Carmichael said. “It’s a very good way to get my mind off things and to do what I love most.” For many players a sport can be a stress reliever, distracting them from the worries of being a teenager. The formation of a young team can lead to rough times in the beginning of the season. The pressure of starting at a varsity level can cause cracks in the team’s foundation, but the Royals look promising

Sophomore Miranda Carmichael awaits the pitch from one of her teammates against Collegiate High School. Carmichael is a second year varsity player. For more softball photos, visit trnwired.org Photo by Daniel Puryear.

As younger teams grow together throughout their first season and the seasons to come, teams playing together for years will often have the likely of a better season. Starting young develops a strong bond between players, which in return can strengthen the team as a whole. Starting sophomore Caitlin Abernethy is also excited for the upcoming season, looking forward to conference play with a new team. “Our goal is to practice hard every day which will hopefully result in a state championship,” Abernethy said. Abernethy starts left field and bats 9th in the lineup. She also plays for a travel team that is continually furthering her skill. “I feel that we all get along with each other, which is important, and I think we will learn to play together as the season goes on,” Abernethy said. Being a team often takes more than practices together. All of the players have to be comfortable speaking and being around each other in order for game play to reach a peak performance. “The difficult thing with this group is they are introverts. It is a hard thing to communicate, so we practice that everyday,” Coach Nealan Chandler said. Communication skills are essential in building a strong offense and defense in a team sport. Speaking to teammates helps the flow of the game. The team is also working on developing more advanced skills to help them accomplish their goal of a state title. “ [The ideal player is] someone who thinks of the team first, not themselves or their needs,” Chandler said. “They will do anything I ask them to do with no attitude. Someone who is vocal and supporting their teammates.” Team play is all about trusting other players and their skills. The ideal player can easily achieved with a young team because the players can be modeled by the coaches and experiences. “...The girls come everyday looking to learn something new, they are always upbeat. We have to work everyday,” Chandler said.