PRINCE GEORGE HIGH SCHOOL - 7801 LAUREL SPRING ROAD - PRINCE GEORGE, VA 23875 VOLUME XIX - ISSUE 3 - MARCH 19, 2021 - WWW.TRNWIRED.ORG - @ROYALSMEDIANOW
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PRINCIPAL NELSON SAYS FAREWELL p. p.6 6 What’s Inside? p. 8 Women’s History Month p. 15 Golf Returns To Fort Lee Celebrated p. 12 & 13 State Champions Awarded
p. 18 Football Stands Tall At 3-0
Principal Mike Nelson approaches the microphone in the gymnasium in September 2016 to make an announcement. Nelson will be leaving PGHS to work at the Department of Education in Richmond this week. Photo by Wessam Hazaymeh.
One year after school was shut down for Covid-19... - Not been sick or quarantined 46% - Been quarantined, not sick 41% - Got sick with Covid-19 13%
*Twitter Poll of 32 Votes
2 | THE ROYAL NEWS | FRIDAY 3.19.21
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FRIDAY 3.19.21 | THE ROYAL NEWS | 3
OP/ED
Time To Face Issues Plaguing Women
theRoyalNews the
O
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.
I
can’t help but feel dissatisfied during Women’s History Month. This time is supposed to be a celebration and acknowledgement of female struggles and contributions in our society. A EMMA representation WOODWARD-BURDETT of how far
Professional affiliations & awards Columbia Scholastic Press Associations Gold Medalist 2008-2016 CSPA Gold Crown Winner 2010, 2013, 2014, 2015 Virginia High School Association Trophy Class 2006-2017 Col. Charles Savedge Award for Sustained Excellence 2010, 2017, 2019 NSPA Online Pacemaker Winner 2011, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2017, 2018, 2019 NSPA Online Pacemaker Finalist 2020, 2021 NSPA Pacemaker Finalist Newspaper 2009 SIPA All Southern 2008-2015 The Royal News, PGHS trnwired.org 7801 Laurel Spring Road Prince George, Virginia 23875 804-733-2720 The Royal News is printed at OurNewspaper.net
Section Editors Kaylaa’ White Cover Doubletruck: Emily Hannuksela OP/ED Features Maclay Cerny A&E Sports:
Writers Makayla Hamlin, Melliah Mason, Michael Mullenix, Rebekah Lee
Editorial Cartoonist Annabelle Starr
Editor-in-Chief Kaylaa’ White
Senior Editor Katie Zevgolis
Editor Emily Hannuksela
Editor Maclay Cerney
Adviser Chris Waugaman
Illustration by Annabelle Star.
Virtual Option Needed Until Vaccine Proven Effective
G
overnor Ralph Northam stated that as of March 15th, 2021, school districts in Virginia need to offer some form of in-person instruction. “To prevent irreparable learning loss and psychological damage, I expect every school division in the Commonwealth to make in-person learning options available by March 15, 2021, in accordance with the latest guidance,” Northam said. Under the terms stated by Northam, Prince George County and Prince George High School already comply with these requirements, being that we have operated under a hybrid plan of instruction since the beginning of the school year. Regardless of the current condition that our school division is currently in, supporting bringing remote teachers back into the building to cover the increase in student numbers is not the right decision. These teachers have already been pre-approved as high risk, and were initially told at the beginning of the semester that they would remain remote.
This is particularly alarming because at the start of second semester the decision to bring more students into the building coincided with a spike of cases, an outbreak, over 20 staff members having COVID-19 related absences, and athletes being quarantined with some confirmed positive cases. Removing ethics from the argument, and just observing the facts still makes this decision wrong. Many students and staff are going to travel for Spring Break, and this will just put high risk teachers, more at-risk of catching the virus. Sure, a large population of teachers are being vaccinated, but due to orders from President Joe Biden, there will be a bigger push on the Johnson & Johnson vaccination which is only 85% effective in its published results. Being vaccinated in general is more beneficial than having no protection against the virus at all, but bringing highrisk teachers back into a building, where there was just an outbreak, and students are about to leave on a vacation, is just irresponsible.
Women’s status has risen in America. Great progress has been made through the hard work and activism of women like Betty Friedan, Angela Davis, Gloria Steinem, Rita Mae Brown, and countless other feminists and female leaders. Furthermore, I hope it is realized that the rights and social freedoms women have today exist because women have fought to gain them. However, it is painfully obvious from the modern female experience and current social attitudes that America still has not gone far enough in securing gender equality and equal social status for women. Women still do not have the same status and opportunities as men in the U.S. Women are subjected to unfair double standards about virginity, relationships, and proper behavior. They don’t receive equal pay for equal work. They are underrepresented in government institutions. Perceived “female” industries like teaching undervalued. Women perform more of household labor than their male counterparts. Women are more likely to live in poverty than men. Women are comodified and objectified in pornography and prostitution. Women are at high risk for rape and domestic violence. Rape culture is normalized in American society and women are blamed for being raped and sexually harassed. Women are victims of racism, homophobia, ableism, religious discrimination, and disenfranchisement. My point is that we can’t fully acknowledge the struggles and hardships of women if we ignore the issues that they face today. This means that the best way to value Women’s History is to continue the effort and activism of the women and feminists that we celebrate during Women’s History month. It is not enough to simply don a “I heart Susan B. Anthony’’ t-shirt and call it a day. If Americans want to create a better environment for women then they need to call out existing social hierarchies, power structures, and systematic oppression. Feminist actvism needs to be taken seriously and feminism must be intersectional and inclusive for all women. The conversation of women’s rights should not just be a superficial evaluation of faux girl power and complacent narratives tailored to make the existing hierarchical power structures feel comfortable.
4 | THE ROYAL NEWS | FRIDAY 3.19.21
THE WEEKS AHEAD National Puppy Day - March 23rd
E
ven if St. Patrick’s Day has come and gone, another very popular holiday will be occurring next week. The day that cuteness abounds... National Puppy Day. The day may be to celebrate the most adorable four-legged creatures around, but it is also a day
to raise awareness about the horrible conditions in puppy mills. This day is also a day to encourage adoptions at the local animal shelters. To contact the Prince George Animal Shelter about adoption see their web page... princegeorgecountyva. gov/public_safety/animal_services_ adoption_center/
End of the 9 Weeks/Report Cards
T
he end of the 3rd quarter is April 2nd. This will end the marking period and teachers will enter final grades. Teachers do have a 1/2 day work-
day on April 12th. Report cards will be issued on April 16th. The 4th 9 weeks will start on April 13th and end on June 18th.
U
Spring Sports Start In April
pon returning from spring break, VHSL will get back on track with the opening of spring sports. Spring sports will run from the end of April until June this year due to the completion of fall sports possibly in April.
S
With spring sports being held outside, the hope is by the time spring sports start the limitations on crowd size will be amended to allow more people to watch the events. Currently crowds are limited to 250 spectators in most instances. Tennis will be the first to compete on Wednesday, April 21st.
Spring Break - April 5th-9th
pring break with begin with the first full week of April. Upon returning to school on April 13th students will begin the 4th 9 weeks. The only other holiday left on the
school calendar will be Memorial Day weekend. With only nine more weeks on the calendar after spring break the end is in sight for students.
FRIDAY 3.19.21 | THE ROYAL NEWS | 5
FEATURES Teachers Receive Covid- 19 Vaccine Virginia Department Of Health Provides Vaccines For People In Groups 1A & 1B Emily Hannuksela
Features Editor
W
ith the number of COVID cases increasing across the United States and in school systems, there are many recommendations and guidelines being put in place to help decrease the infection rate. In addition, the vaccine that is being administered may also help slow the spread. The vaccination phase in Prince George County is still in 1B, with teachers included in this phase, though they are a crucial component to society. President of the United States Joe Biden, in his speech on the COVID-19 pandemic on March 2, 2021, spoke about the necessity of teacher vaccination. “Let’s treat in-person learning like an essential service that it is,” Biden said in his speech. “To help make this happen, starting next week and for the month of March, we’ll be using our Federal Pharmacy Program to prioritize the vaccination of pre-K through 12 educators and staff and childcare workers.” Several teachers at PGHS have already been vaccinated, whether it’s they’ve had their first or second dose. “I received my first dose on February 6 and my second dose on February 27,” said French teacher Marcia Edmundson. “I did have a few of the side effects after my second dose, including slight fever, body aches, and arm pain, but nothing too extreme.” Despite minimal side effects, Edmundson feels the vaccine is beneficial to her daily life. “I am so relieved to be fully vaccinated,” Edmundson said. “There is much less anxiety in having to be in public now.” In addition to being able to go in public, vaccinated teachers can teach without additional stress and fear about contracting COVID-19. “I have been teaching in-person all year, but my second semester has a lot more students in my classroom and I feel much safer being vaccinated,” Edmundson said.
Among the other teachers that received the COVID-19 vaccine was Spanish teacher Paola Jones, who has had her first vaccination, but is pending the second. “I received my first dose on February 6, 2021,” Jones said. “I was supposed to get my next dose on 27th, but I got COVID and was unable to get it. I will have to wait about a week or so.” Jones’s symptoms were mild and only had arm soreness following the first dose. Receiving the vaccine is a step to returning to normal. “It gives me hope that we are on our way to normalcy,” Jones said. “I am looking forward to the day we can freely enjoy life. It is crucial for us all to get vaccinated so we can return to life as we knew it prior to the virus.” In addition to signing up for the
vaccine, staff and students at PGHS can take extra measures to reduce the risk of spreading the virus. “We can slow the spread by wearing our masks, maintaining social distancing and staying home when it’s not essential,” said school nurse Tanya Bryant. “We can also look out for others by staying home if not feeling well.” Bryant, in addition to her normal duties of tending to accidents and injuries, dispensing medicine to students, and communicating with staff and parents, works to keep the school a safer place during the pandemic by contact tracing. “If anyone tests positive or is in close contact with someone positive, I keep track of their isolation period,” Bryant said. “Anyone that comes within six feet for fifteen minutes or
French teacher and SGA sponsor Marcia Edmundson displays her verified second dose of the Covid-19 vaccine. Teachers began getting vaccinated in February and are now receiving their second dose. Photo contributed by Marcia Edmundson.
more in a designated time frame will also have to be quarantined.” Vaccinating everyone, in addition to the COVID-19 rules and regulations, will hopefully lead society to return to a sense of normal. “I hope as more people get vaccinated we can reach that all-important ‘herd immunity’ and have things return a little more to normal,” Edmundson said.
6| THE ROYAL NEWS | FRIDAY 3.19.21
FEATURES
Principal Mike Nelson Accepts Emily Hannuksela
OP/ED & Features Editor
A
fter working as co-principal for the 2014 school year, and principal since 2015, Mike Nelson will be departing the high school for a new job at the Department of Education on March 24, 2021. With his many years of leadership and devotion to the high school, Nelson will continue to work to serve his community in the Office of School Quality at the DOE. “Being your principal is one of the best things I’ve done,” Nelson said at a faculty and staff meeting last week. “I am proud of what you do every day of my life.” Nelson has worked hard to run the high school smoothly and will be missed in the Prince George County community by fellow staff members. Veteran history teacher Cynthia Hasley remembers working with Nelson when he was in the classroom as a young teacher. “Mike Nelson and I started teaching at Prince George High School about the same time, in the same department a quarter of a century ago,” Hasley said. “We both came from William and Mary, steeped in history and integrity. He is a man of family and faith who always had his students’ best interest at heart. As new teachers, there were days that were overwhelming, but he always had a smile to offer...and that twinkle in his eyes. I truly enjoyed working with him as a fellow teacher. As Mr. Nelson moved on to administration, he continued to be supportive and positive... that is so important. I wish him and his family only the very best in life. He is irreplaceable and will be greatly missed.” “While I couldn’t be happier for Mr.
Nelson to move into such a prestigious new role where he will positively impact schools around the Commonwealth, I will deeply miss his leadership and believe that his departure leaves a giant hole in the heart of PGHS,” English 12 teacher Beth Andersen said. Having held many positions in Prince George County Schools, including teacher, SGA sponsor, assistant principal, and principal, Nelson developed many skills that will help him in his new career. “[Nelson] has always been driven by and made decisions based on doing what is best for students and teachers,” Andersen said. “Knowing his heart of commitment and his long history at PGHS, I always trusted him to do what was right for our school.” His time in the history department at the high school left an impression on many of his colleagues in A-wing. “As a popular history instructor, he was respected for his vast knowledge, high expectations and his dry sense of humor,” history teacher Vicki Hale said. “As an assistant administrator, he was supportive of the students, faculty and staff under his supervision and was always willing to share constructive solutions to the many educational challenges they faced.” “As principal he brought all of his skills to bear, particularly during the many upheavals of the last twelve months, maintaining a steadying and positive influence,” history teacher Sabine Labossiere said. “He has always had an open-door policy, a willingness to listen and gives thoughtful consideration to suggestions or concerns.” Veteran German teacher Susan Brafford has seen Nelson work in many roles during his tenure at the high school. “Mr. Nelson is a true Prince George Royal,” Brafford said. “As a teacher, his priority was providing students with a quality education which met students where they were and challenged them
to do more. As the advisor of the PGHS Student Government Association, he fostered an environment through which students could learn and become confident in their abilities to lead their peers. As an assistant principal and ultimately as principal of PGHS, Mr. Nelson never lost his belief that the classroom is the heart of the school and his responsibility was to provide a framework, be a resource, and a support, so that his teachers could focus on providing the quality education for which PGHS has always been known. In short, Mr. Nelson’s entire career has been about advocating for and putting the students of PGHS first.” During his time at the high school,
Principal Mike Nelson checks to see if the microphone is working for Honors Night 2017. Principal Mike Nelson waits for the Class of 2017 to have their photo taken in the gym. Principal Mike Nelson honors Teacher of the Year Anne Roberts in 2017. Photos by Royals Media.
Nelson taught many lessons to both students and fellow staff members. “He has shown me that you should never forget your roots as an educator and if mistakes are made along the way, acknowledge them and work hard on a solution,” said biology teacher Keandra Smith. “I appreciate him for being a listening ear when times were hard or I needed guidance during these past few years.”
Mr. Nelson begins teaching history at PGHS.
Mr. Nelson begins teaching history at Bird HS.
Mr. Nelson returns to PGHS.
Mr. Nelson begins as viceprincipal at PGHS.
August 1997
September 2005
September 2006
September 2012
FRIDAY 3.19.21 | THE ROYAL NEWS | 7
QUOTES FROM
New Position At DOE
“Every time I saw him, he would thank me for my hard work and dedication, which meant a lot to me,” math teacher Katherine Simulcik said. “It was a wonderful thing that he was an actual teacher before becoming a principal, so he knew exactly what happened in the classrooms and what needed to be done.” One of Nelson’s chief roles, which some may consider one of the most difficult ones he had to fill during this hybrid model of learning, is constructing the master schedule. While doing that, he worked side by side with guidance for countless hours. “To me, Mr. Nelson epitomizes what Prince George High School stands for..... care and concern for both staff and students,” guidance counselor Tara Seely said. “I will miss his smile and warm welcome. I always knew that his door was open, and he was willing to assist in any situation. As a school counselor, it is so important to have a good working relationship with the administration and Mr.
Nelson consistently tried to create solutions that would impact the students in the most meaningful way. His absence will certainly be felt at PGHS.” English teacher Kindall Stevenson and Aline Geryes were both students at Prince George High School when Nelson was a history teacher. “I met Mr. Nelson when I was 17 years old,” Stevenson said. “Since then, he has grown to be an incredible administrator who fiercely supports his faculty and staff. I switched careers to become a teacher because he suggested it. I would not have taken that leap of faith with any other principal. I’ve never loved a job more, and I owe that to him.” “For me, PGHS and Mike Nelson have become synonymous. Like several other staff members, I do not know PGHS without Mr. Nelson’s presence. Not only did I have him when I was a student in the building, but he conducted the interview process which led me to becoming a teacher here. He means a great deal to a lot of people, me includ-
Principal Mike Nelson is named co-principal of PGHS.
September 2014
ed,” Geryes said. “If not for Mr. Nelson, I would never have had the opportunity to pursue teaching in the path that I did. I left the field of healthcare after 10 years and started working in the office as Mr. Nelson’s administrative assistant. I’ll never forget when he called to offer me the interview. I did not realize it was the same Mike Nelson who taught me history years ago, but it was. He recognized my first name immediately and waited for me to make the connection. Teachers really don’t forget their students... Mr. Nelson gave me a shot in the classroom. He has directly impacted my career path and my desire to educate high school students because he led by example. Mr. Nelson is one of the most compassionate educators I’ve met; he truly impacts people around him with his thoughtful actions and encouraging words.” In his seven plus years as a principal he has worked with many assistant principals. Throughout that time he has been a mentor to those staff members. “It has been an honor and privilege to have the chance to work with Mr. Nelson,” Assistant Principal Matthew Mcallister said. “He has been a mentor to many, myself included. I wish I had the opportunity to learn more because he has so much to share. He has and always will be a true Royal.” Nelson will continue to grow at the Department of Education, though his roots will always be green and gold. “As Mr. Nelson moves to the state level, PGHS is losing a caring and determined advocate who always put the needs of his students and his teachers above everything else,” Brafford said. “VDOE is gaining the best Royal Prince George County Schools has to offer.” “He stood up for us (teachers and students) and tried to help us in any way possible,” Simulcik said. “This year is rough for us, and he stood up for what was right and took his job seriously. He would admit if he made a mistake and didn’t blame others.” “Mr. Nelson truly embodies what it means to be a Royal and will always be one in our eyes,” Andersen said.
Principal Mike Nelson becomes head principal at PGHS.
September 2015
FORMER STUDENTS
“Mr. Nelson was an amazing mentor to me at PGHS - so happy for you, Mr. Nelson!” - Laura (Young) Ruxton, Class of 2010
“Mr. Nelson is awesome! My history teacher and SGA advisor from the early 2000s.” - Joi Alexa, Class of 2004 ““The best thing he ever did was SGA with us.” - Sarah Locke, Class of 2010 “Love Mr. Nelson.” - Sam Preece, Class of 2018
Principal Mike Nelson accepts job with Department of Education.
March 2021
8 | THE ROYAL NEWS | FRIDAY 3.19.21
FEATURES
Women’s History Month Celebrated Powerful Women In Workforce Recognize Importance of History Emily Hannuksela
166.7
is the number of women in the United States as of July 2019
OP/ED & Features Editor
W
omen’s History month occurs e v e r y March to recognize the role of women in society throughout history. Many women celebrate Women’s History Month nationally as they work to show their strength through their actions and achievements. One woman who is especially proud of this month is Michelle Simonson, a Registered Nurse (RN) at VCU in Richmond, where she works diligently through the pandemic to help others after being redeployed to the COVID unit in December of 2020. “A typical work day on North 5 on the Comprehensive Medicine Unit (CMU) includes determining how many COVID positive patients are on the floor and checking in with the nurses assigned to them,” Simonson said. “The main way COVID-19 has affected my work routine is that I was redeployed from my Cardiology Outpatient Clinic to work on an Inpatient Medicine Unit as an RN Assist. It has been about 4 years since I have worked on an Inpatient unit, so getting back into the fast paced environment was a welcomed change and challenge.” Simonson’s crucial role in society helps her to further acknowledge every woman’s importance throughout history and the present. “Every day we celebrate the successes of the women of American history, by living our lives as women to fullest by going to work in a profession of my choosing, voting when there is an election, driving my own vehicle that I bought, owning my own home, and being able to live my life the way I want,” Simonson said. Haley Ramsey also believes in the importance of Women’s History Month. As a volunteer through Prince George Fire and EMS as well as an RN at Southside Regional Medical Center in Petersburg, Ramsey looks up to those women who paved the way for her to be able to achieve such honors. “Women’s History Month is all about celebrating the leaps and
BY THE NUMBERS
33.9%
percentage of women above the age of 25 with at least a bachelor’s degree
19th
the Amendment that gave women the right to vote
bounds that women have made over the years,” Ramsey said. “We are so fortunate to live in a place with so much opportunity. This month recognizes the many challenges that were met by women before us to accomplish great things.” Ramsey also has personal connections to her career choice, which was inspired by important women in her life. “I was influenced heavily by my grandmother and mother, who are both nurses,” Ramsey said. “My patients and their families heavily depend on me in their hardest times and that is such an honor. Throughout my last semester of nursing school my grandmother was in hospice. I now work for the same company with the amazing nurses who helped us through that time and I can only hope that I can offer the same comfort to the families I encounter.” Through the COVID-19 pandemic, Ramsey perseveres through her daily routine of being both an Intensive Care Unit (ICU) nurse on the weekends and a hospice nurse throughout the week. “A twelve hour shift in the ICU consists of administering medications, managing ventilators,
Michelle Simonson starts an IV on a patient. Simonson is an Registered Nurse at Virginia Commonwealth University. Photo by Jodi Hannuksela.
and closely monitoring patients while communicating with physicians, family members, and other staff members,” Ramsey said. “Throughout the week I go to patients’ homes as well as nursing facilities to take their vital signs, assess them, and perform wound care. A big part of my job in hospice is to teach families what symptoms to expect and how to manage them. Our goal is to allow patients to pass peacefully in their homes, surrounded by family.” Women all over the nation work to do great things daily, all throughout the year. One month does not exemplify the exceptional accomplishments of all women. “The history of any group of people should not be defined by one month,” Simonson said. “They fought so hard for us to be where we are, so confining the celebration of Women’s History to one month, I believe does a disservice to us as women and how far we have come in the history of America, and world wide for that matter.”
1987
is the first year that Women’s History Month was officially celebrated
46.8%
is the total percentage of women in the labor force, as calculated in 2018
24%
is the percentage of total women in Congress Information provided by US Census and womensday.com
FRIDAY 3.19.21 | THE ROYAL NEWS | 9
FEATURES
Suzi Analogue Recognized For Music, Business Success As Black Woman Katie Zevgolis
M
TRN Editor
aya Shipman, also known as Suzi Analogue, was born on August 16th, 1987 in Maryland but this international music star went to high school right here in Prince George. Recently she was on the cover of the Arts section of the Sunday New York Times where they spoke to Analogue about the importance of black business ownership in the music industry. Analogue, a 2008 Temple University graduate and 2004 Prince George graduate, believes that having the power to both create and own is important for people in the black community and the LGBTQ community. This is why she founded Never Normal Records where she
has not only produced her own work for almost 10 years but she has also helped other artists. According to its website Never Normal Records is based out of Miami, FL. Two years ago in an interview for TRNWIRED.org she explained how her time in high school helped mold her into the artist she is today. “My time at PGHS shaped who I am today because the school had great teachers who encouraged me to challenge myself,” Analogue said. “The school activities really helped me to feel confident about working with different types of people. Now that I work in the creative industry I realize that my beginnings in high school played a role.” Her music has been described in many ways, but most will agree its sound is unique, especially for listeners in the US. Due to the unique nature of its sound, Analogue’s songs became well circulated internationally before she began to receive acclaim here. Her latest ZONEZ World Tour, before Covid-19 forced her to come home, took her to
music festivals in Africa, Asia, Europe, and the United Kingdom. Described for its fast dance beats, many are entranced by the chord progressions and unusually time signatures, and some call it electronic dance. Analogue has acknowledged that the club dance scene has had a lack of black representation and this is another reason for her attempts at expanding her work. One other strangely unique detail about her music is that it is often released on cassette tapes. Therefore her name stays true to how her music is shared and released. She offered advice for students still looking ahead towards future plans. “For future PG graduates I would say, don’t feel afraid to venture out into the world after you graduate,” Analogue said. “Try to travel and see the world. PGHS helps to start us with a great foundation, and as long as you trust in yourself and stay focused, your great possibilities in life are endless.”
Some of Music Released by Suzi Analogue
More at: suzianalogue.com
WAY OUTTA
Released 2020
LOUDR
Released 2019
NRG NRG
Released 2018
NUMBA 1
Released 2017
DON’T CLOCK NN
Released 2016
12 | THE ROYAL NEWS | FRIDAY 3.19.21
A&E RESTAURANT ADJUSTS FOR HOLIDAY IN PANDEMIC Makayla Hamlin
OP/ED & Features Editor
O
n March 17th, everyone is thinking about luckpeople search for four leaf clovers, look out for pots of gold near rainbows, and of course, avoid being pinched for not wearing green. St. Patrick’s day is an Irish holiday that is celebrated by millions of people around the globe every year. However due to COVID-19, a lot of the celebrations for this holiday could not be held last year, and will not be held this year. A British pub named Brickhouse Run would usually celebrate this holiday in full, but this year things are different. “Definitely it will be a little bit scaled down as it was last year,” said Joanna Phelan, co-owner of Brickhouse Run. “St. Patrick’s day kind of marks the anniversary of the official start of the COVID lockdowns here. So we will be celebrating St. Patrick’s day much as we did last year with reduced seating and probably lots more to-go stuff rather than people dining with us in-person.” Although the pub itself is British, the holiday is still celebrated there, for different reasons. “We’re always looking for a reason to have a party at the pub,” Phelan said. “And because of our own Irish heritage, we are certainly eager to celebrate Saint Patrick’s day.” The day is special for the pub for several reasons. Opening time is earlier, lunch is served instead of just dinner, and the food sold is specific to the holiday. “We open at 11[am] and serve our Irish lunch,” said Phelan. “We have corn beef and cabbage and all the Irish favorites, pub favorites.” Music and traditional dress are also a part of the festivities at the pub. “Normally we would have some kind of Celtic musicians come in,” Phelan said. “There’s a group we like called Clan Haggis that comes and they sing lots of sea shanties and traditional Irish music. And they have their traditional kilts and stuff
POPULAR
IRISH FOOD SODA BREAD
Basic ingredients are buttermilk, egg, flour, sugar, baking soda, salt, and butter. Photo by O’Dea. Commons. Wikimedia.org
IRISH STEW
Basic ingredients are beef, garlic, stock, red wine, potatoes, carrots, and onions. Photo by Asmoo. Commons. Wikimedia.org
on. They are a lot of fun and people sing along, you know it’s a pub kind of fun.” However, the St. Patrick’s day celebration at the pub and the general sizing has been minimized from usual for the past two years, due the pandemic and new COVID-19 guidelines. “Our restaurant is small even though we are at a small capacity, so in normal times we have 60 seats in the restaurant- but we are not able to, we are down 20%-30% on our seating with the COVID restrictions,” Phelan said. “And also normally even though people might not be seated people will just be hanging out.” These changes have changed not only the celebration, but also the ambiance of the restaurant itself. “It’s been hard on the pub because the pub is such a community sort of place, so having to limit our guests has definitely changed the
The Brickhouse Run Restaurant celebrates traditional holidays connected to Ireland, England, Wales, and Scotland. This year’s St. Patrick’s Day celebration will be altered based on COVID-19 guidelines for restaurants. Photo by Royals Media.
atmosphere of our restaurant,” said Phelan. Though it is disappointing, most of the things to celebrate still can not be done this year, one can recognize why the precautions had to be taken. “It’s important to us to do what we can to make everyone stay safe and healthy,” Phelan said. And even if everything can’t be done, the celebration could perhaps raise spirits in a time where they will be appreciated. “The pub is a place where people gather with their friends and even with the reduced capacity, it still has that sense of community,” Phelan said.
CORNED BEEF
Although it should really include cabbage, for anyone who doesn’t like cabbage, just a few slices of bread, corned beef and horseradish will do. Photo from Creative Commons.
FRIDAY 3.19.21 | THE ROYAL NEWS | 13
WINTERSPORTS
INDOOR TRACK WINS STATE TITLES Maclay Cerny
W A&E & Sports Editor
ith the sounds o f people a l l around h e r , junior Brooklyn Robinson anxiously awaits her teammate to return and takes a deep breath, preparing to run the anchor leg of the relay. On March 2nd, the indoor state track meet was held in Virginia Beach. Twelve Royals participated and many placed. The 4 x 200 meter relay team placed first and won the VHSL Class 5 State Indoor Title. The team consisted of sophomore Marianah Lipkins, junior Mariah Washington, freshman Nishe Castelle, and junior Brooklyn Robinson. The same group of girls placed second in the 4 x 400. “It felt good going to states,” Lipkins said. “It’s like you’ve been preparing and working hard for this moment, and you finally get there and it’s amazing.” Lipkins, a two year runner, has competed in states once before. This year, however, she has a more vivid favorite memory than ever before. “[My favorite memory is] when our anchor Brooklyn Robinson was running her leg to finish the race, and Mariah Washington and I were yelling and screaming at the top of our lungs,” Lipkins said. Having a larger group go to states, the pre meet energy was definitely very high. Getting pumped and excited is always important to a performance. “The energy our team brings to each other is very motivating, so I was very excited about getting a ring and placing in every event I ran in,” Washington said. Sometimes, it is important
to focus on the events leading up to meet. These moments can make or break a race as much as anything else. “Staying in the hotel with my teammates is a vivid memory for me,” Washington said. “We have a special bond which makes it very fun.” Not only did the relay team place first in the state, they also were able to set a new school record. “We were extremely relieved that we won and broke our previous school record,” Robinson said. With the relay team having a variety of classes on it, there are different levels of experience. However, in the end, each person’s role and expectations on the team was the same. “I was most concerned about competing since this was my first time at a big meet, and not knowing what to expect,” Castelle said. “Also, I didn’t want to let my team down.” Along with these two relays finishing first and second, there were other placements as well. Lipkins also finished third in the 55 meter dash, and Washington finished 2nd in the 300 meter dash. Idalia Conover finished 9th in shot put. Lamont Victoria cleared 6-04.00 for first place in the state for the boys high jump. He also finished 4th in the 55 meter dash. The 4 x 400 team finished 3rd, and Chandler Coleman finished 5th in the 500 meter and 6th in long jump.
State champion Lamont Victoria runs in the 55m event at the Dinwiddie Indoor Meet in January. Victoria cleared 6-04 in the high jump at the Class 5B State Indoor Championship and finished 4th in the 55m dash.. Photo by Royals Media.
14 | THE ROYAL NEWS | THURSDAY 3.19.21
SPORTS
New Adjustments Mean New Challenges For Boys Volleyball
LINGO OUTSIDE
The position on the court where the outside hitter plays, also what is called when the hitter wants the ball set to that spot.
Maclay Cerny
A&E/Sports Editor
A
s the gym is again filled with the sound of loud energetic voices after school, athletes on the boys volleyball team make the most of their season, no matter the circumstances. As February began, so did the modified season of the boys volleyball team. While more restrictions and less time before the season had to be implemented due to COVID-19, the team did not let that stop them or hold them back at all. “Preparation has definitely moved faster this year due to the amount of time we had to practice prior to our first game,” DeGrauwe said. “Other years, we would have more time to prepare for games and throughout the season.” Coming into each season, it is important to make sure that there are new players joining the team, but also returning players to help lead it. Without both of these, the team could not function properly. “We don’t have many guys out this year, but we have some great players coming back from last year and even a few new guys,” Wyatt said. With so much being changed for the seniors all over this year, many have learned to take joy from the things that may have been passed over in any other year. Something as usual as a sports season is definitely a major accomplishment. “Volleyball is a sport I always look forward to playing every year and finally being able to play after a long wait, especially as a senior, means a great deal to me,” DeGrauwe said. The time restrictions also add a new challenge to an already challenging situation. Making sure the team is bonded before a match, without being able to gather in large groups, is an added difficulty. “We have younger people playing new positions they may not have played before, so trying to get everyone on the same page in the amount of time we had played a big role in preparation for this season,” DeGrauwe said. One of the COVID-19 restrictions implemented for indoor sports is a no
VOLLEYBALL
LIBERO
The defensive position played by typically the best passer. This designated player can sub freely in the back row. This player is distinguished by wearing a different color jersey.
PANCAKE
fans rule, regardless of seating room. This has greatly impacted the boys volleyball team. “The games are extremely different when it comes to having no fans,” Wyatt said. “It can really have an effect on the game.” While the inability to have fans present may have presented a challenge at first, the team was very quick to adjust. “I think having no fans is really what has our energy down on the court at times opposed to any other year,” DeGrauwe said. “The people there had helped us keep our energy up. That has to be the main difference so far this year, but I would say that given all the challenges we have faced so far as a team we have done
Senior Zach DeGrauwe passes the ball in the game against Midlothian. DeGrauwe is one of four seniors on the boys volleyball team. Photo by Alessia Ingargiola. extremely well in overcoming them together.” With so much being changed this year in every aspect, the boys volleyball team is just excited to be playing with each other. “It is great to have the opportunity to be back playing, I know all the guys are excited to be back in the gym and I hope we can continue to play and be successful while keeping everyone safe,” Wyatt said.
Although this term might make one hungry, it actually refers to a defensive save when a player places their hand flat on the ground and the ball pops up after hitting only the hand.
Photos of Mitchell Wyatt, Garrett Wohnig, and Zach DeGrauwe by Alessia Ingargiola.
FRIDAY 3.19.21 | THE ROYAL NEWS | 15
PH TO GALLERY
GOLF RETURNS TO FORT LEE Members Begin Their Season Against Matoaca After Time Off
1. 1. Junior Ashley Allen tees up on the fourth hole at the Cardinal Course at Fort Lee. Allen posted a round of 55 against Matoaca. 2. Sophomore Owen Tarnaski focuses on his shot as he brings his driver back. Tarnaski shot a 49 at the match, the second top score for the team. 3. Senior golfer Konner Eaton puts on the played the best round of all of the Royal golfers against Mataoca. Eaton posted a top score of 47 for his round. 4. Coach Wade Benenhaley hands out the score cards as both teams prepare for the match. 5. Sophomore Thomas Carden hits approach shot just off the fairway. Carden posted a 56 for the round. Photos by Emily Rolon.
For more photos of all events follow this link to https://trnwired.smugmug.com/ Photos taken by Emily Rolon.
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16 | THE ROYAL NEWS | FRIDAY 3.19.21
SPORTS
HISTORICAL STATE RUN FOR HEADLEY, TEAM
Michael Mullinex
Writer
T
he Prince George wrestling team made history this past season on the mat, and no it wasn’t due to Covid-19. Five wrestlers placed in the state tournament on February 18th. Those wrestlers are senior Willie Headley with first place, sophomore Michael Swink with fifth place, senior Cole O’dell with fifth place, junior Christian Cooper with fifth place, and sophomore Jude Capps with sixth place. The wrestling team was headed by Coach Glen Thomas as they traveled to Virginia Beach. “Making states in high school is the best feeling I have ever felt because states is where the top people go to compete and see who is the top one,” O’dell said. Going to states was not a simple task to complete.
“It was great for our team to make states,” Thomas said. “At one point our team had to be quarantined and we didn’t know if we were gonna make it to states, but after making sure everything was safe for us to go we took our kids to states.” Placing was a great feat in itself and it provided a great sense of accomplishment. “It was really exciting for me to make it so far,” Headley said. Many factors play into every success story. Key components can be different for each person, but they are there for everyone. “What I attribute to my success at that event is my teammates and coaches,” O’dell said. “Without them you can only go so far. With them you can learn new things from each other and the coaches will push you to your limits and make you go past your limit.” Some obstacles could only be overcome with teamwork. “Our kids were determined,” Thomas said. “We faced great adversity throughout the season, but we pulled through. Our assistant coaches
helped greatly as well, as I couldn’t go to states as I was under quarantine.” Going into this year’s wrestling season as a senior, Headley wanted to make the most of every opportunity. “My motivation was that this would be my last shot as a senior to make it happen,” Headley said. While going into a competition, having motivation is important. At the end of the competition, the results can give an athlete new motivation. “What was my primary motivation for me success in wrestling is wanting to become state champ even though I got 5th, I still feel like I could do better after each and every match,” O’dell said. With motivation came hard work and rethinking how you approach your goals. “We worked hard,” Thomas said. “I actually cut practices and focused on fundamentals. There was no room for error.” At the tournament, there were many precautions put into place due to Covid-19. “Well we had to wear masks and
State Champion senior Willie Headley gets leverage on his opponent at the Dinwiddie match earlier in the season. Headley defeated Bryant Quaye of North Stafford to become the Class 5 Champion at 195 lbs. Photo by Royals Media.
stay six feet apart from our teammates and coaches,” O’dell said. This also meant some changes had to be made to practice. “Different rules were in place to keep us safe and at practice we were limited to the least amount of physical contact possible,” Headley said. In order to protect not only their hopes for competition, but also their staff and wrestlers, extensive measures had to be taken. “We took our kids’ temperatures every day,” Thomas said. “We made sure that we kept track of who was who, we had seating charts for our bus rides, we made sure people would only practice with the same person every day to avoid a massive outbreak, and we wore masks.”
FRIDAY 3.19.21 | THE ROYAL NEWS | 17
FALLSPORTS
CROSS COUNTRY
SPOTLIGHT
Riley Humphries Eighth Grader
Familiarity For Field Hockey Brings Success Melliah Mason
TRN Writer
A
s sounds of calls and chants erupt from the field, the field hockey team continues their season, staying strong and successful. This year’s season has been very successful for the field hockey team, as they have stayed motivated and determined to keep their winning streak. Junior Riley Chandler, a player of five years, discusses how the team bond plays a huge role in how they play. “We all have been playing field hockey together for forever which is a huge advantage we have against other teams because we are able to work together,” Chandler said. “We are so successful because we trust each other on and off the field.” Chandler has a few particular items that motivate her before the game. “What motivates me before games is screaming our game day playlist while warming up and screaming our ‘I believe’ chant before the game starts,” Chandler said. Chandler believes that the team succeeds because of its strengths. “Some strengths we have this season are being successful when
passing the ball to each other down the field, our corners, communicating on and off the field, being able to give and receive constructive criticism to strengthen our plays and performance, working together during games and during practice, never giving up especially during difficult games, our sportsmanship, our drive, and encouraging each other on and off the field,” Chandler said. Sophomore Berkley Mccabe, a player of four years, thinks the bond in hockey benefits the team. “This family bond allows us to have stronger connections on and off of the field,” Mccabe said. Junior Elizabeth Christian, a player of three years, and a goalie, understands that the key to the team’s success is talking to one another on the field. “We are doing better with communication this season, especially because we’ve all played together before,” Christian said. Christian believes being a goalie requires different communication. “The main reason that my communication is different is that I see almost everything,” Christian said. “Since I am the furthest back on the field I can tell who is open or who on the other team is the biggest threat.” Sophomore Berkley Mccabe passes the ball at midfield against Colonial Heights. The Royals defeated the Colonials 9-0. Photo by Alessia Ingargiola.
What kind of things have you done to get conditioned and ready for the season? “I finished indoor track last month, so I felt prepared coming off that season with Coach Stevens. I also work out and train with my travel softball team yearlong so that helps me stay conditioned.” What is your favorite part of cross country? “This is my first time running cross country, but so far, I would say my favorite part is running on different surfaces. The trails are an added challenge that I don’t face on a track.” What is one goal or challenge you have set for yourself for the season? “I would like to get my time to 21:00 so I want to challenge myself to do that.” What is your favorite memory of running? “One of my first 5k races was in the Outer Banks 2 summers ago,” Humphries said. “It’s when I first realized I may be good at distance running. I ran it with my grandpa so that made it more special.”
18 | THE ROYAL NEWS | FRIDAY 3.19.21
PH TO GALLERY
FOOTBALL STANDS TALL AT 3-0
Down 18-7 At Halftime, Royals Defeat Matoaca 28-24 On Fourth Quarter Drive With Two Minutes Left
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9. 7. For more photos of all events including this game against Matoaca on March 5th follow this link to https://trnwired.smugmug.com/ Photos taken by Helene White, Kailey Garner, and Emily Rolon.
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1. Junior quarterback Tahir Johnson escapes the Matoaca pressure from senior Akhari Haggard to pick up a 1st down. Photo by Helene White. 2. Junior lineman Wesley Bostic finds his blocking assignment. Photo by Kailey Garner. 3. Junior tight end Willie Jennings blocks Matoaca’s defensive back Trey Willis. Photo by Kailey Garner. 4. Junior wide receiver Javon Davis-Lee punches through the line. Photo by Kailey Garner. 5. Junior defensive back Curtis Allen holds on tight to Matoaca’s sophomore Riley Simmons for the tackle. Photo by Helene White. 6. Sophomore Stephon Hicks gains some precious yards after contact. Photo by Emily Rolon. 7. Freshman Cheerleader Jennica McNew encourages the team from the sideline. Photo by Kailey Garner. 8. Coach William Stevens addresses the team in warm-ups. Photo by Helene White. 9. During a timeout, Coach Zachary Orlando rallies his players. Photo by Helene White. 10. Head coach Bruce Carroll gives his pregame speech to the team. Photo by Helene White.
FRIDAY 3.19.21 | THE ROYAL NEWS | 19
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SPORTS
UPCOMING EVENTS
>> Girls volleyball plays at >> Field hockey plays home vs Thomas Dale on Monday, March 22nd.
at home against Hopewell on Wednesday, March 24th.
>> Golf takes on
Hopewell at Prince George Golf Course on Monday, March 22nd.
>> Cross Country runs at
Hopewell High School in a meet against several schools on Wed., March 24th.
Girls Volleyball Stays Undefeated Melliah Mason
Writer
A
s the sounds of calls for the ball echo across the gym floor, the girls volleyball team continues to thrive in the new season, winning their opening four games against Thomas Dale, Colonial Heights, Matoaca, and Meadowbrook. With this girls volleyball season being very different from previous ones, the team members have had to adjust to the new, very different guidelines set in place due to the coronavirus. Junior Sydney Turcotte, a player of five years, discusses how she has been impacted by the new season. “In my opinion this year has been more mentally challenging than a regular season,” Turcotte said. “Instead of being able to help the JV, varsity has to stay to themselves which is unusual.” Turcotte expresses how she thinks she has performed this volleyball season. “I believe that I have been doing well,” Turcotte said. “My teammates have helped me grow so much already and continue to motivate me.” Even though Covid-19 has made things very different for the team, members still continue to embrace their routines before games, bringing them together even in times of uncertainty. Senior Haley Hines, a player of five years, discusses a part of the pre-game routine. “As a team, we listen to music and dance around in the team room,” Hines said. “‘Party in the USA’ by Miley Cyrus and ‘PYT’ by Michael Jackson are always part of our pre-game jam sesh.” Turcotte discusses the disadvantages she has experienced due to new guidelines for volleyball games.
“I won’t have my number one supporters in the bleachers,” Turcotte said. “Parents aren’t allowed to watch the games in person so it will be strange without them.” Hines expresses how the team gets along well, not letting the difference in the season get in their way. “From the first day of tryouts, everyone has gotten along like we had known each other for years.” Hines said Coach Wanda Gilbert discusses how maturity plays a big role in how the team performs in games and in practices. “This team is very mature and we are able to run advanced plays on the court,” Gilbert said “This allows us to keep the defense guessing.” Players on the team are not the only ones having to go through a different volleyball season. Gilbert expresses how she has remained motivated, even with things being different. “When you coach a team full of such quality individuals, it is easy to remain motivated,” Gilbert said. “They are a group that is fun to hang around, and fun to watch succeed on the court.” Things being different has not stopped more people joining the volleyball team. “We have four new players out of 13,” Hines said Turcotte expresses what keeps her going, even in hard times like these, to play volleyball. “A lot keeps me motivated to continue playing volleyball,” Turcotte said. “The volleyball community becomes your family, I couldn’t imagine my life without them.” Gilbert expresses her gratitude with the hard work the team has put in games and practices this season, and in past years. “It has been my pleasure to work with, and watch these girls grow over the years,” Gilbert said.
Senior middle blocker Grace Peterson reaches up to stuff a Meadowbrook spike. Peterson has played a central role in the strength of the team’s offense. Photo taken by Alessia Ingargiola. For more photos of sports, scan this QR code.