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Volume XVI, Issue I
Prince George H.S. - 7801 Laurel Spring Rd. Prince George, VA 23875 www.trnwired.org - October 20, 2017 @RoyalsMediaNow
DRUM MAJORS LEAD MARCHING ROYALS
P. 13
p. 7 RETIRED SECURITY GUARD LEAVES LEGACY p. 10-11 BALLOT OF THE FITTEST p. 18 POM-POMS TO STREAMERS
What was your favorite Spirit Day? 72 Responses via Twitter Poll - Green And Gold Day (38%) - Generation Day (13%) - Match Your Wall Day (25%) - Battered Opponent Day (25%)
Seniors Ben Skelton and Ian Siemen lead tempo in their band’s performance at a football game against Dinwiddie. Photo by Wessam Hayzaymeh.
2 | THE ROYAL NEWS | FRIDAY 10.20.17
Yankee Coffee
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FRIDAY 10.20.17 | THE ROYAL NEWS | 3
OP/ED theRoyalNews
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.
Section Editors Front page: Wayne Coleman , Op/Ed: Anna Mitchell, Features: Kattie Iwanski, Doubletruck: Tyler Brock, A&E: Aaliyah Capers, Sports: Wayne Coleman
Writers Abigail Jones - Haleigh Horne - Claudia King Shelby Hayes - Masako Kaneko - Molly Ashcraft - Sarah Schrum - Daniel Battle - Carter Marks Maddison Shawkey - Harmony Thomas
Editor-in-Chief Kattie Iwanski
Adviser
Chris Waugaman
Managing Editor Wayne Coleman
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 NSPA Online Pacemaker Winner 2011, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2017 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 The Progress-Index in Petersburg, Virginia
Illustration by Anna Mitchell.
Protests of National Anthem Cause Divide Between Players
I
n 2016, Colin Kaepernick, who used play for San Francisco 49ers, sat down during the national anthem in protest against racial inequality and police brutality. Later, Kaepernick decided to kneel during the national anthem instead in respects to former and current members of the armed forces. In the current football season, multiple athletes have been participating in the act of kneeling, including players from the New England Patriots, the Buffalo Bills, the Detroit Lions, the Jacksonville Jaguars, and other teams. Some teams have chosen to not participate by staying in the locker rooms until the conclusion of the anthem, including the Pittsburgh
Steelers, the Tennessee Titans, the Seattle Seahawks, and other teams. Athletes have also been linking arms while kneeling to represent the unity, as teammates, they have on the issues at hand. Players have conducted statements against the assumption that they are participating against the flag or patriotism but in opposition to certain events occurring in the U.S. There has been some discussion about networks not airing the national anthem before the game, seeing as the anthem is not necessary for the understanding of the game. President Donald Trump expressed an opinion through Twitter stating that NFL football players should not be allowed to “disrespect our great American flag” or they should be fired from the league.
Major League Baseball (MLB) became involved with the demonstration when rookie player Bruce Maxwell, form Oakland Athletics, was the first national baseball player to participate The Denver Broncos, after their game against the Buffalo Bills, released a statement that the team would no longer be kneeling during the anthem, but instead will be standing together as a team. It is important to let others exercise their freedom of speech by allowing them to express their opinions through harmless protests on subjects that are of major importance to the individual.
4 | THE ROYAL NEWS | FRIDAY 10.20.17
OP/ED
Certain Universities Stop Requiring SAT Scores Several universities around the nation, including James Madison University and George Mason University, have stopped requiring that students submit their SAT scores with their college applications. Though the scores are not required, students may still submit their scores to help boost the strength of their applications. Now, students wonder what the results of this change will be, and whether it will help or hinder when they submit their college applications.
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ith the school year starting, seniors from a lot of high schools prepare for college. One of the things most students think they need to get into college is a good SAT score. The SAT requires a lot of time to prepare for and it also requires a fee. The SAT without the essay is $46 and with the essay it is $60. That’s a lot of money to put forth for a test that only measures how you’re going to do in college. The SAT has never been a good indicator of how the student will do in college which is the SAT’s number one goal. Two universities in Virginia have changed their criteria relating to SAT scores. The two universities have made getting into college a lot more easier for some students by making the decision of not basing a student’s acceptance off of a SAT or ACT score. These two universities are James Madison and George Mason. The decision these universities have made has made it a lot less stressful for students particularly in their junior and senior years of high school. This gives the college more choice in aspects as to who gets into the college. Instead of looking at a score from a test, they are looking for how well they did in school. This helps a lot of students who just are not good test takers. Instead of them stressing over a test that practically determines their future, they can just continue to do well in school. For example, colleges who still make the SAT a requirement may turn down a student because of his SAT score while his GPA is 4.5. Making the SAT not a required element in the application process gives the students more of an opportunity to get accepted. Not only should these two universities continue to not make SAT a requirement, other schools should follow in their footsteps to open the possibility of getting accepted to those who are not good test takers.
PRO CON AALIYAH CAPERS
TYLER BROCK
“The SAT has never been a good indicator of how the student will do in college...” “SAT scores play a key role in college admissions because it is one of the first things they see when they receive high school transcripts.” “Instead of them [students] stressing over a test that practically determines their future, they can just continue to do well in school.”
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ecently, two Virginia schools, James Madison University and George Mason University, have decided to give students the option of submitting their SAT scores. Due to their prestigious, high ranks, this may cause a domino effect, and other colleges and universities may follow their example. This decision could be disastrous for students because they wouldn’t be as prepared for college. Schools should require students to submit their SAT scores because it’s incredibly helpful for their next chapter in life. First, SAT scores play a key role in college admissions because it is one of the first things they see when they receive high school transcripts. The test results help make it easier for colleges and universities to decide which students to accept. This should motivate students to get a high SAT score because they will have a variety of schools to choose from. Also, SAT scores are considered to be a benchmark. The test interprets the student’s overall academic performance in school and sees what his/her strengths and weaknesses are. The SAT helps prepares high schoolers, especially seniors, for the real world when they graduate. This may be the first timed test they will have, which means they will not have an unlimited amount of time. Seniors who want to enroll in the Armed Forces will be required to take its entrance exam - the ASVAB test, which is also a timed test. Finally, SAT scores can be financially rewarding for pupils. Depending on their scores, they will be eligible to partake in scholarship programs. SATs can also help students qualify for AP classes, which can be even more beneficial down the road. AP classes are college level classes that high schoolers can take to receive college credit. This can save time and money and may even help them graduate early. Schools should continue to require SAT scores to stay in place because they serve a significant purpose. They assist future high school graduates by evaluating their academic performance in school, and they help them by giving feedback. The SAT also gives an insight on how future tests may be given and timed. It can also be considered as a form of financial aid because it is a gateway to scholarships. In general, SAT, the Scholastic Aptitude Test, does a lot of good for students and should not be dismantled.
FRIDAY 10.20.17 | THE ROYAL NEWS | 5
THE WEEKS AHEAD PAAS Vocal Music Festival
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n Oct. 20th, 2017, PAAS students from all over Prince George will host the PAAS Vocal Music Festival at Prince George High School. Students of all ages, from every school in the county, will be performing that night. The groups will be singing songs by Roger Emerson, Henry Leck, Ruth E. Dwyer, Martin L. Ellis, and Jim Papoulis. The concert will take place at 6:30 PM in the auditorium at PGHS.
School Board Voting Begins Again
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n Tues., Nov. 7th, school board elections will be held once again in Prince George. Four individuals are campaigning for the school board: Sharon Jadrnak, Robert Eley, Leila Holmes, and Chris Johnson. Students ages 18 and up may vote in this election. Students must be registered to vote by Monday, Oct. 16th in order to vote in this election. County residents can vote either at Prince George County Administration building on 6602 Courts Drive on the day of the elec-
tion, or via absentee ballot. Those voting may request an absentee ballot by requesting that one be mailed to them, or by picking up a ballot in person at the administration building. Requests that ballots are mailed to the voter must be made by 5 PM on Oct. 31st. For those picking up a form in person, this must be done by 5 PM on Nov. 4th. Remember, even if you are graduating this year, you still have the chance to leave a lasting impact by voting for who you think will leave the most positive impact on PG students.
Last Chance to Take Senior Photos
Annual Czech-Slovak Festival Approaches
ed., Oct. 25th will be the last day students can make up their senior photos. After this date, students’ senior photos will not be able to be included in the yearbook. For more information, see Mr. Waugaman in room A2 and listen to the daily announcements for more information. Appointments are needed to take the photo on Oct. 25th.
rince George County’s 5th annual Czech-Slovak Festival will be held on Sat., Oct. 21st from 11 AM to 4 PM, by the Prince George County Regional Heritage Center and the Prince George Courthouse. The event is filled with music, food, dancing, games, and vendors, all which of celebrate Prince George’s Czech and
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Rowanty Hosts Open House For Public
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n Wed., Oct. 25th, Rowanty Technical Center will be holding an open house for the public to attend. The event will involve a tour of the campus. Rowanty students, who come from not only Prince George County, but also from Sussex and Dinwiddie take classes at the tech center every school day. The event starts at 5 PM and ends at 7 PM. Make sure to come by and get a glimpse of the life of Rowanty students.
P
Slovak roots. The event is fun for all ages- even the youngest child can celebrate their heritage and learn where they come from. The event is free to all, but tickets will be needed to purchase food and drink, and will be available for purchase on the day of the event. Come check out the event as Prince George comes together to celebrate its past.
6 | THE ROYAL NEWS | FRIDAY 10.20.17
FEATURES
BY THE Artist Adds Color To Library NUMBERS Daniels Paints Mural In Library Entrance Haleigh Horne TRN Writer
U
pon entering the library one would see the rows upon rows of books. However, this row in particular stands out from all the rest. These books tower even the tallest of students. Walking into the doors one’s eyes are drawn to this massive floor to ceiling mural painted by junior Aya Daniels. I love that people stop and are in just total awe of it, and it was cool to see her go through the whole process,” Librarian Allison Heath said. For years the library has been a place in which the art students could showcase their artwork and share their creations with the school. “The art students would hang paintings up in here and they would bring their artwork for display. And so I always thought it would be cool to have something in here that was permanent,” Heath said. Daniels and Heath could barely contain their excitement when hearing of Christy Eliades choice. “I was very excited and I felt honored because Mrs. Eliades referred me to Ms. Heath and I thought ‘wow’ there are other people that she could have chosen.” Daniels said. “I was definitely excited because Mrs. Eliades was so excited about the student that she picked” said Heath. Coming up with a brilliant idea for a breathtaking mural is no easy task. Daniels and Heath juggled ideas until they found the absolute perfect design. “Ms. Heath chose the books but there were ideas. I ran them through her of course, because it is the mural for her library. So I had a couple ideas but when I sent her the picture of the books like on the shelf she really, really liked that idea,” Daniels said. The painting consists of 10 books. They range from classics to graphic novels and even some story collection books. “Aya and I actually picked the books together based on the colors, the books spine designs and the fonts as well,” Heath said. This past summer was very big for
10 Ten books are painted on the mural.
4 Four people collaborated and helped to complete the mural.
28 It took 28 days to complete the mural.
112 the library with the joining of a new staff member (Mr. Owens) and the painting of a brand new mural. “I just think it brings an overall freshness to the library which was the goal that Mr. Owens and I had to begin with,” Heath said. In order to construct such a masterpiece it took a lot of time and dedication. Heath worked alongside Daniels on the entire project. “I would come Monday to Thursday and I think I started in July and I finished in August. So it took about a month altogether,” Daniels said, “I did have help from Anna Mitchell and Madeline Birchett. They don’t want to admit that they helped, but I still want to credit them,” Daniels said. Although this opportunity put the spotlight directly on art student Daniels she remained very humbled by the opportunity “I was excited to showcase my talent in the mural but at the same time not because I don’t like the attention on me at
Junior Aya Daniels stands in front of the mural in the library. Daniels designed and painted the mural during the summer of 2017. She had two other students help her paint the mural. Photo by Haleigh Horne. all. During the time I was painting over the summer there were a bunch of teachers that would come in and gawk at the mural while I was painting. While I was really flattered I was also kind of nervous to talk to them about it,” Daniels said. Heath and the rest of the library staff were not just happy with the mural, they were totally blown away. “I would let Aya paint this entire library if we had the means and she had the time,” Heath said The mural will remain on library entrance wall for a long time to come, and the library staff hopes to see many more.
It took 112 hours to complete the mural.
2 There are two graphic novels in the mural.
5 There are five different kinds of paints used.
FRIDAY 10.20.17| THE ROYAL NEWS | 7
FEATURES
In Their
Retired Security Guard Leaves Legacy
OWN WORDS
Memorial Bench Added To Front Of Building In Honor Of Larry Tyler Claudia King TRN Writer
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n Sept. 8th, Larry “Mr. T” Tyler was permanently memorialized for his contribution to the community, a man remembered for his laugh and the smile he put on faces. Tyler was known for making relationships and keeping them for years to come. “I had the unique privilege to know Mr. Tyler as a student here. When he first started working here I got to work with him when I was up in the attendance office and his office Larry “Mr. T.” Tyler was right off mine. I got to know him really well and when he retired, we worked out together as workout partners,” guidance secretary Monica Curtis. “We were friends. We went to high school together and then he started working here. We became closer friends. The students loved him and they came into school looking for him,” head custodian Bryan Griffin said. Tyler was known for his smile and laugh. He would give out jokes and be the butt of the joke. “Just looking at him made you laugh because he was just a funny guy,” Griffin said. His smile was an unforgettable ray. Tyler brought laughter to everyone. “The students, and I’m sure all the teachers, loved when he did the birthday shout out. He was just a lot of fun to be around,” computer network technician Lisa Taylor said. Tyler influenced and built a community outside of school with exercise and teamwork. Motivating and encouraging others to reach their health goals. “He was told by his doctors he needed to lose weight and one day we were sitting in the attendance office and he said, ‘hey will you go out to the gym and workout with me?’ The next thing you know he and I were back there working out on a regular basis. We started out two days a week, and then the next thing you know five days a
“One student came up behind him, and Mr. T was a pretty large guy, and the kid kept saying his name. He would turn around and never see the kid. And when Mr. T moved, the kid would move. And she did it for a good 30 seconds. When Mr. T moved to the right, she’d move to the right. When he moved to the left, she would move to the left, and finally after 30 seconds of doing that he never saw her. And she came up from behind him and said “Mr. T”... and he said ‘where’d you come from?’,” Bryan Griffin said.
week. He brought his sons into the fold to teach us some things, and teach us how to do it properly. And next thing you know, he invited other people and the group has expanded. People have come and added to the group,” Curtis said. “I’m trying to keep up with my exercise program and trying to be there for people like he was,” Taylor said. Tyler left a legacy that will be forever cemented into the foundation of the school, and the community. “He was always there to pick you up and he always saw the good in people,” Taylor said. “He brought a smile to this place that just hasn’t been back. Students felt like they could tell him anything as far as him not being an administrator, and not being a teacher... but an adult that they trusted,” Curtis said. The memorial bench allows others the
Jessie Carmichael hands Cynthia Tyler, wife of Larry Tyler, a bouquet of flowers at the memorial bench service. A committee of six people helped acquire the bench and plan the event. Photo by Royals Media.
opportunity to learn his legacy from the people who loved and knew him best. “I love to see his name out there. He’s been retired for a couple of years, so students that are currently here didn’t really get to know him the same way that past graduates had. This just brings it up front and has people coming here asking about him. It gives us an excuse to talk about him and keeps his memory alive. It makes all of us who did know him smile and be excited that we get to talk about him,” Curtis said.
“I have so many memories but I was actually sharing this one with Mr. Griffin the other day because it just makes me laugh. When I was in attendance one of the things we would do is I would write the early dismissal slips, and if a student was in the cafeteria I would send them to Mr. T. He would get on the speaker, just like they do now, and tell them to come to the attendance office, and one of my attendance workers talked me into writing a fake name - asking for the person ‘Seymore Butts’ and bless Mr. T’s heart, he got on the intercom three or four times ‘Seymore Butts come to the attendance office.’ He just didn’t register it in his head. He didn’t think for a second that I would play a prank on him and of course the cafeteria full of students laughing and rolling just couldn’t control themselves... laughing because he just kept saying it three or four times. And he finally came into my office saying ‘this person’s not coming’ and I had to clue him in and he just bust a gut laughing,” Monica Curtis said.
8 | THE ROYAL NEWS | FRIDAY 10.20.17
FEATURES
New Math Learning Centers Aid In SOL Preparation Computer Stations Added To D-Wing Classrooms Help Implement IXL
NUMBERS
120 The number of laptops used in the program.
48
Masako Kaneko TRN Writer
The number of students in Jan Buetow’s class using the computers.
S
ophomore Elijah Neshelaar stands at the entrance to his math class where his teacher, Jan Buetow waits outside ready to greet her students. He walks into the classroom filled with desks made into the shape of hexagons. He sits in his seat and begins the do now on the laptop using PowerTest. “It gives the teacher a chance to go around and work in a smaller group instead of teaching to the whole class,” Buetow said. This year, as some students may have noticed, teachers have made changes to the way they teach. Especially students who have Regan Brown and Buetow for math. The desks are now arranged into the shape of a hexagon and each separate hexagon is treated as a station. The planning for the learning centers was done at the school board. The geometry and algebra I classes are doing these new learning centers this year in order to improve SOL test scores. “I’m enjoying using it. I think that some students feel great and some are like wait why are we on the computers so much, because they’re not use to being on the computers as much in a conventional math class,” Brown said. Brown and Buetow, who have been using this new method, enjoy using it. They strongly believe that the students like it too. During class the students will split into their stations. They will begin to practice on the lesson using the new class set of computers. “The websites are pretty helpful, so if I don’t understand something that the teacher said, the website may explain it in a way I understand,” Neshelaar said.
BY THE
4 The number of teachers who utilize the computers in the labs.
Using these new techniques the students are able to learn however they learn best. Rather than using worksheets to practice, they can instead use IXL or other math programs. “On occasion we use Kahoot and another website, where it teaches you a lesson, lets you practice it, and then you take a test on it,” Neshelaar said. The students have the freedom to choose what website they prefer to use. They can go to IXL, Kahoot, and many other programs as long as they stay on task. “I love it. I think that it helps get our students prepared for real life. Everything nowadays is based on the computers, and some students don’t have access to computers at home,” Brown said. One of the greatest pros of having learning stations is that it helps more students. Students who weren’t able to access the internet at home now have access in class. They are now able to get onto the program needed and practice the
Sophomore Devan Talbert solves algebra II problems in math teacher Regan Brown’s first block class. The class introduced technology enhanced learning in mathematics this year. Photo by Masako Kaneko. math lesson. “The only con I can feel right now is that sometimes students, if our classroom is full, have their back to me,” Brown said. “It’s extra practice which helps us learn the material,” Neshelaar said. The main purpose of using the learning centers is to prepare the students for the geometry and algebra I SOLs. Students such as Neshelaar feel that the new method of learning is definitely working to prepare them as well as their peers. “The websites they have us go to are very helpful, it makes it really easy to practice and learn,” Neshelaar said.
2 The number of math subjects that the computers are used for (algebra I and geometry).
30 The number of computers in each class.
FRIDAY 10.20.17 | THE ROYAL NEWS | 9
FEATURES Students Celebrate Homecoming At Dance
Shelby Hayes TRN Writer
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tudents filled the commons once again to hang out with friends and socialize with peers, but instead of wearing jeans and sneakers they came dressed in
gowns and suits. Senior Hannah Dankenbring, like many other seniors on Saturday night attended her last homecoming dance on Oct. 14th. “Normally at school, you see everyone wearing their basic outfits, but it’s nice to see everyone dressed up and having a good time,” Dankenbring said. Dankenbring enjoyed the dance and the time leading up to homecoming. She took pictures and ate dinner with her date senior Josh Sulc before
showing up Saturday night. “I had an amazing date that was more fun. My friends and I danced more and were carefree about it,” Dankenbring said. Other attendees had to also make sure they reported to the dance on time because they were part of the homecoming court. Seniors Wallace Canada and Laura Thompson were selected by the student body to be homecoming king and queen. “I felt great knowing that most of my peers voted for me,” Canada said. “It was a big shock - I wasn’t expecting to come anywhere close.” Since for some it was there last homecoming dance, many had big expectations. “I think it was better than I hoped it would be,” Dankenbring said. “It was better than the last two years.” Right before school starts the Student Government Association has a meeting. In this meeting the members of the SGA vote on the theme of the dance.
The members wanted something fun and easy to decorate. The theme is represented by the decorated walls of the commons. This year’s wall theme was TV channels. The sophomores decorated with the idea of the Cartoon Network, juniors had Nickelodeon, and seniors had Disney Channel. SGA adviser Marcia Edmundson helped students plan for the week and the dance, along with orchestrating the court selection. “Everything is very stressful but I’m excited. I love to see the looks of those who won,” Edmundson said. The tradition of a homecoming dance is one that has been around for many years. PTA Past President Cindy Leonard has been in charge of setting up for the dance since 2005. Although her daughter Emily Leonard is the president of the PTA, Cindy Leonard is still involved in the dance. “I mainly help coordinate the security, the DJ, chaperones, and ticket sales,” Leonard said.
Being recognized with the homecoming court, senior Wallace Canada walks forward when his name is announced at the dance. Canada and senior Laura Thompson were named king and queen on Fri., Oct. 13th, at the football game. Photo by Christine Bartruff. For more dance photos go to trnwired.org or scan this QR code. Leonard and the PTA members arrived around seven o’clock and started to set up. It took about 30 to 45 minutes. They also worked with 10th grade representatives to help with refreshments for the students. Leonard stayed from the beginning of the dance to the end. She looks forward to the dance every year. “Each year is a new adventure. It’s great to see the kids having a good time,” Leonard said.
12 | THE ROYAL NEWS | 10.20.17
A&E
Sculpting Up New Art Curriculum AP Art Introduced To Third Year Students Anna Mitchell OP/ED Editor
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hristy Eliades’s 2nd block art class is working on a unique project. Today, the students are looking through a mirror at their own faces, and drawing themselves with charcoal of various colors. They chatter lightly among themselves, discussing their projects and their personal lives. Tomorrow, they will be drawing something new. Students in Eliades’ art classes are dedicated, hard-working artists, and while students in this class are only taking Art III, many are preparing to take a big step in their artistic and academic careers: taking AP art classes during the 2018-19 school year. Though AP Art classes will not be implemented this school year, measures are already being taken to prepare students for the advanced class. Students will work yearround on art pieces of various mediums and forms to submit to their portfolios, and in May, they will receive a score on their works. If students earn a high enough score, they will earn college credit while only in high school. “[I want] to bring rigor to the students that are interested in more rigor in the classroom, and to help develop their portfolios,” Eliades said. “The AP curriculum builds a strong portfolio that students can submit to [help them gain] entrance to college.” It is a long and demanding process to introduce a new class, let alone an AP class. For the classes AP Studio Art: Drawing and AP Studio Art: 3-D Design, it all starts with an appeal to the school board. “I have to first get a course approval form submitted to the school board office,” Eliades said. “They have to approve the class, because it costs a little extra money. I get that [form] back and then I start the process of applying to have AP [Drawing and 3-D Design] here. There’s no guarantee [that we will get approval].” Students will have the choice between the two AP art classes once they reach their senior year. Normally, students would take Art IV before taking AP art classes, but students will be given the option to take either AP Drawing or AP 3-D Design after taking Art III. Eliades has one requirement for students up to the challenge of taking an AP art class. “You have got to be really ready to work,
By The FACTS
AP 3D Design students will sculpt in many mediums, including wood and clay.
Christy Eliades will be the teacher teaching AP art.
AP Drawing students draw with many mediums such as pastels, and graphite
The classes that could be offered are AP Art: 3D design and AP Art: Drawing
work, work, the entire time you’re in the art studio- and outside, because in order to get the credit, you have to submit a portfolio to AP, and it’s judged very strictly.” Over at Thomas Dale High School in Chesterfield County, Shelley Row teaches AP Studio Art. Not only are Row’s students passionate about art, but Row herself is passionate about teaching the class, as well. “Each year my students have been both proud and amazed at what they are capable of creating,” said Row. “This class prepares them for college as they develop greater selfdiscipline and motivation along with greater artistic skill through practice and experimentation. The mutual support and sharing of ideas throughout the year builds strong relationships among the students. As a teacher, this is a delightfully happy class to teach even though it is very demanding.”
Senior Kiva Brazier works on her “Sin Book” as an art 3 progect. Photo by Aaliyah Capers Both Eliades and Row look forward to the next school year, when Row will teach AP Studio Art another year, and, hopefully, Eliades will teach her first year of AP art classes. “As an art educator of many years, I enjoy this class more than any other,” Row said. “There are daily challenges, it is always interesting, the creative problem solving is continuous, the students are demanding, and it is one of the most rewarding experiences of my career.” “It would present a new challenge for me as a professional,” Eliades said. “AP is extremely challenging for the student, and therefore I think it will be challenging for me [to teach], too.”
In lieu of the AP exams, AP art students will submit art portfolios they create throughout the year.
Information collected from Christy Eliades and collegeboard.org
A&E Drum Majors Lead Marching Royals Siemen, Skelton Focus On Perfecting Skills To Lead Musicians
Marching LINGO
Set (Word command) It tells the band to get ready to start.
Sarah Schrum TRN Reporter
T
he clock ends for halftime as drum majors senior Ian Siemen and senior Ben Skelton lead the band to their positions. As they give the starting signal, the band begins to play while they stay in sync with each other. To Siemen and Skelton these are smaller practices leading up to bigger competitions and assessments. They share the role of leading the whole band during exercises as well as the performances. This may seem easy to some, but it’s not all fun and games for the directing duo. “It’s definitely a leadership position,” Skelton said. “You’re in charge of an entire band, this band, making sure they stay in time with each other, move with each other, and coordinate with each other, and that’s what a drum major is.” The position of a drum major takes a lot of focus and dedication. The role comes with high expectations and responsibility. A few of these responsibilities include teaching the repertoire to other members, leading warm-ups, representing the band during special occasions/ceremonies, answering members’ questions about the routine, and being an inspiration to the whole band. “The hardest part about being a drum major, and I don’t mean this in an ugly way, is knowing people don’t give it their all,” Skelton said. “I think that’s the hardest part, knowing you have a band that could break 90 but doesn’t because they don’t give their full effort.” The members who are elected for this position have shown they can handle the pressure. After the role is bestowed upon them the entire band looks to them for directions, and answers to questions about the show. “They should be capable of conducting, rehearsals, and helping sections,” band director Michael Warnock said. Sections are groups of instruments that practice together during rehearsal.
FRIDAY 10.20.17 | THE ROYAL NEWS | 13
Pointing (Hand pointing straight out to the side) This is the bands’ que to start playing.
Decrescendo decrease dynamics. This means telling the band, or part of the band, to play softer. Both Siemen and Skelton share this role, going from group to group answering questions, clarifying details, and making sure every member stays on track and is focused. “The easiest part for me is showing up for practice. Once you’re in practice you just do what you’ve been taught, and if you have problems just fix them,” Skelton said. “The easiest part is showing up and the hardest part is actually putting in the work, but it’s just if you have the will and the dedication to do it, it’s easy,” Siemen said. The expectations are high for Skelton and Siemen as they lead the band through competitions. The hardest part about these competitions, as Shelton has said, is having someone there that knows music and knows what you did wrong. Their next performance is on Oct. 28. This will be their state assessment, and the band will be performing Tribes Of A New World, a mix of different melodies representing the many
Seniors Ben Skelton and Ian Siemen as they conduct against the opposing band at the Prince George, Dinwiddie football game. Photo by Wessam Hazaymeh. cultures of the world. “We listen to judges’ tapes so we can get a higher score, so when we get to the state level we can come in with a one,” Siemen said. For those that are not aware of the judging scale, it goes from one the highest, to three the lowest and, as Siemen said, they always push to get the one. Completing this assessment could mean high scores for the majors and the members, this could eventually lead them to the VA Honors Association, meaning they did extremely well on an SOL type assessment, which is very important to the band because it is like getting an ‘A’ on an important test.
Crescendo Increases dynamics. This means telling the band, or part of the band, to play louder.
Information collected from senior Ian Siemen.
14 | THE ROYAL NEWS | FRIDAY 10.20.17
A&E
W
ith the release of NBA 2k18 on Sept. 19th, 2017, the 2k franchise improved their game over the past years and with this year’s game, it took a different approach from its
usual setup. This year they added some new concepts to the game that sets it apart from the rest. Instead of the original MyCareer mode where the player you create plays through NBA games and set records. This year 2k reintroduced it as the Neighborhood. The Neighborhood has a open-world style of play where your player explores around a city to play pick-up games in indoor or outdoor courts. For customization you can go to stores to customize your players appearance with shops such as a barbershop, and a tattoo parlor. This year the game features a dual archetype to characterize your players game style with two styles of your choice. 2k18 has also added dunk-off, which allows your player to compete with others to show off their dunking skills, and you can play trivia with random
Daniel Battle
Gamer's Corner players. They added a face scan app where you can take a photo of yourself and make your player look like you. 2k18’s gameplay is just like last year’s 2k17 but slightly different. Players play as themselves and not the same particular style, which allows superstars to get more foul calls and make more shots than any other NBA player. They worked on the defense aspect of the game as well with help defense, leaving people who can’t shoot from a longer range open, clog the lanes of players driving to the goal, and worked on the AI’s defense as well. The game’s shot meter mechanic has a different look to it. Instead of it looking like a semi-circle, the shot meter this year has a little rectangle on the side of the player as he is about to shoot the ball. This year they have two editions available, the
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Photo courtesy of 2k.com. Standard edition which features 4-time All-Star and NBA champion Kyrie Irving, and as for the Legend edition it features Hall of Famer and 4-time NBA Champion Shaquille O’Neal. IGN.com has rated NBA 2k18 an 8.4/10
PH TOGALLERY
FRIDAY 10.20.17 | THE ROYAL NEWS | 15
Royals Show Spirit During Homecoming Week
Above: Senior Kayla Bailey shows her school spirit by participating in “Generation day.” On this day students dressed as babies, older people, and even imitated some teachers. LEFT: Senior Ayjah Johnson hops around the commons dressed as thumper fom Bambi II for “Match your wall day.” The seniors wall was Disney, juniors were Nickelodeon and the sophomores’ wall was Cartoon Network. TOP LEFT: Senior Eric Sykes races for the Class of 2018 during D lunch against the junior and sophomore class tributes. Throughout the week and at the pep rally, classes competed against one another for the spirit stick. All photos by Aaliyah Capers RIGHT: Senior Holly Singletary prepares herself for the traditional pep rally held before the homecoming game by adding gold dots to her face. Photo by Aaliyah Capers.
For more photos of the spirit week go to www.trnwired.smugmug.com
16 | THE ROYAL NEWS | FRIDAY 10.20.17
Starting Positions available in:
General Laborer With Advancement in:
Heavy Equipment Operation Pipefitting Welding
FRIDAY 10.20.17 | THE ROYAL NEWS | 17
FALL SPORTS
Adair, Returners Lead Speedy Team
Senior Spotlight A’Lauren James
Cross Country
Why did you first want to join cross country? “My brother was a part of the track team and he always came from practice talking about how much it was so I tried it for myself.”
Carter Marks TRN Writer
C
oming off a win against Maury 1-0 on Mon., Oct. 16th,, the field hockey team remains true to their mission statement. “It is important we take it game by game, and not focus so much on the postseason,” head coach Maggie Roberts said. “You cannot go from August first at tryouts and say you are going to states.” The team looks to improve this season with the returning player of the year, junior Georgia Adair. Adair was extremely humbled winning conference player of the year, especially since she was a sophomore. “It is exhilarating to achieve that honor, but I didn’t need it,” Adair said. “If I could give that award to every player on our team I would, because every single person contributes to the team.” A skill that helped Adair earn this honor is switching the field. “Usually [what helps me with changing the field is] Rachel Bowen, calling out to me and being able to drop the ball back and then the defense proceeding to take the ball to the other side of the field,” Adair said. Roberts enjoys having Adair, saying she
is an unique part of her team. “Having Georgia on my team is really something special,” Roberts said. “She is a one of a kind field hockey player and I am glad I can coach her.” With six seniors leaving, five of which were starters, a lot of newcomers had to step their game up and fill some big shoes. Adair says sophomores Alex Drushal and Ashley Thacker, along with juniors Dani Milam and Abby Jones have all learned quickly and help improve the team. Having lost their goalie last year, junior Kyla Nase has also stepped up. Roberts praised Nase’s playing style and training process. “Kyla also worked really hard this summer... going to a UVA field hockey camp taught her a lot,” Roberts said. There are also some new faces to the team this year, including new assistant coach Britney Sammler. Both Roberts and Sammler played together on the Prince George field hockey team in previous years. “Coach Sammler played defensive midfield and I played attacking midfield,” Roberts said. “How we played is exactly how we coach.” The two gel together well, and it shows when they are on the sidelines coaching their girls. “We will be on the sidelines coaching, and then we yell the same thing at the same time,” Roberts said. “We work really good together
Sophomore Ashley Thacker and senior Carlee Lively advance the ball against Hopewell after a free hit. The Royals defeated Hopewell 6-0. Photo by Madison Cleveland. because both of us balance each other out really well.” Roberts says the major difference between the girls this year from last year is their physical strength. “There is a big difference in the girls from this year and last year,” Roberts said. “The girls last year were more individualized... but this year the girls have a lot of skill and speed.” However, Roberts also sees different skills her squad has this year that last year’s team did not. “This year, the brawn has come out of the team, but I have a lot of girls who can play multiple positions and that is extremely uncommon for a team,” Roberts said. “That is one thing I push hard for my girls, and that is playing multiple positions.” Coming into her second year coaching these girls, Roberts is extremely proud of what they both accomplished already. “These girls are really hardworking and never complain of anything asked of them,” Roberts said. She looks forward in growing not only as a coach but as a better person by learning from these girls.
What is your favorite thing about cross country and why? “I love the family that you make. I’ve been running with these people since eighth grade and it’s like a giant support system behind you.” What do you do when you’re not running or at school? “I enjoy traveling and sightseeing, I spent a lot of time doing that this summer.” What have you learned being a part of this team? “I’ve learned teamwork and leadership skills. I’ve also learned how to persevere through struggles for the win in the end.” Who is your biggest inspiration or role model and why? “Alison Felix, she’s a strong runner and she never gave up on her dream of running in the Olympics.”
18 | THE ROYAL NEWS | 10.20.17
FALL SPORTS
Pom-Poms To Streamers
Wayne Coleman Managing Editor
I
t is an early Thurs. evening, and the varsity football squad has just finished practice. While the last of the team exits, cars are pulling into the field house parking lot. The varsity cheer squad can be seen hopping out, not with pom-poms, but with streamers and banners. It has been a tradition for the Lady Royals cheer team to decorate the locker room before a home game. “We just kind of got the idea to write good luck notes, but to make them different to give them inspiration,” junior Gracie Laxton said. They do it not only for their friends on the team, but for the entire football team, to help them feel appreciation they feel the squad should receive. “I still do it [decorate the locker room]
because I care about the football team, and they don’t get as much recognition as I feel they should,” senior Cierra Ashley said via text. “Us decorating the field house let’s them know that we really do appreciate them.” Laxton says she hopes the players draw some type of inspiration from the notes and other accessories. “On game day they can read whatever note I leave so they can gain motivation for game night,” Laxton said. The squad sees their goal of exciting the team for a home game with the decorations has proven effective. “The goal of decorating the field house and their lockers is to hype them up for home games, and from what I’ve heard, it really works,” Ashley said. The tradition also has contributed not only to the motivation of football players, but to the relationship between both squads. “It [writing notes for the players] brings
us closer together as two teams,” Laxton said. “Coming together and pushing each other to do better in our sports.” “I think that decorating the field house really strengthens the bond between football players and cheerleaders,” Ashley said. “The football players joke around in the field house with our decorations and balloons we put in there, so that brings the boys together too. Also, for us cheerleaders, it forces us to work together which makes our relationship really tight.” Football players have enjoyed the decorations, and those, like senior Chase Fortner, feel the extra push from their fellow Lady Royals. “I love when they do it [because] it provides a sense of encouragement,” Fortner said. “It says ‘we support you,’ or ‘you go this’.” The players even have some favorite memories and got a few laughs from the tradition over the season. “[My favorite time was] the Dinwiddie
Senior Tazya Peoples and junior Gracie Laxton prepare the locker room for the “Green Out” game against Dinwiddie. The tradition is one which the cheerleaders believe brings both teams together. Photo by Wayne Coleman. game, because they misspelled ‘beat’,” Fortner said. Fortner also feels that livening up the locker room brought both squads closer together. “It helped build a closer bond, it makes us feel like a family,” Fortner said. Both sides want the tradition to continue even after their high school careers end. “I want the tradition to continue because someone that cheers for you while you’re playing on the field, and writes the motivation you may need [is a great thing],” Laxton said.
FRIDAY 10.20.17 | THE ROYAL NEWS | 19
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football Varsity girls Varsity football Varsity boys >> >> Fall Sports >> Varsity plays at Colonial volleyball plays volleyball plays >> plays Matoaca for Heights on Friday, Matoaca at home their last home at Thomas Dale
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Volleyball Strives To Win With Toughness Maddison Shawkey TRN Writer
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Junior Chance Tyler and senior Alex Dennis set the block against an approach from Hermitage’s outside hitter. Photo by Jenna Miles. For more volleyball and sports photos scan this QR code.
alking into the locker room, boys volleyball head coach Mayes Marks Jr. gives a celebratory speech to his players after defeating Petersburg. This year’s team only has two allconference players after Neil Marks and Miles Warren graduated. Senior Justin Spates, who got honorable mention allconference last season, and David Knipp, who was on second team, have been leading the team through this season. “We could have a team with no allconference players, and we could still win the championship because of how we gel as a team,” Marks said. Some people may have been worried about the effects of losing all conference players but Marks does not see this as a problem. Marks’s goal for his team this year is to make them tougher. “What I’m hoping we’re going to do is get tougher,” Marks said. “That’s a word many moms don’t like, but I mean tougher in that we get scrappier when we play.” Teams of the greater Richmond area, including Clover Hill, Cosby, and James River High School, go to compete and travel with the Richmond Volleyball Club. Prince George does not currently have any students associated with the league. “We are at a disadvantage when we play other volleyball teams across the river,” Marks said. However, the team has succeeded with junior Chance Tyler and senior Alex Dennis stepping into a greater role. “We have Alex Dennis, who I think has stepped in and has done an extremely good job as a setter,” Marks said, “I think Chance Tyler, who can jump out of his shorts, is now figuring the game out and he’s really turning it on this last week or two.” Junior outside hitter Jonathan Fung gave some insight on the team and their goals.
After being with the team for about four months he has personal goals and ideas of what the team is looking forward to this year. “My goals are to become a better player for myself and the team next year,” Fung said. “The team’s goal is to make it to regionals and have fun.” Both Marks and Fung have noticed a leadership quality in libero Justin Spates. “Justin Spates, who is a senior, was honorably mentioned at all-conference last year,” Marks said. “I think he should’ve made first team but it’s a little political when asked how it comes about… but he’s extremely good.” Spates is one of the team captains this year. He is now in his fourth year of playing volleyball. “It meant that I was supposedly the third best libero in the conference voted by the coaches,” Spates said, “For me personally, I knew I could do better than third.” He recognized leadership in his fellow captains, Alex Dennis and senior Brady Taylor. He also recognized David Knipp, second team member, in excelling this year. Spates is looking forward to this upcoming year and his opportunities at all- region “[My goals are] to have a winning record and make first team all region,” Spates said. The team has been preparing for anything that comes at them in this upcoming year. They are working on being more aggressive with the ball according to Marks. “We’ve been doing what I call “toughness drills” in these last couple weeks,” Marks said, “To get them to the point where we don’t, as I call it, pitterpatter, or grandma picnic volleyball.” Marks explains that “grandma picnic volleyball” as not wanting his team to be gentle with the ball. “...when you go to grandma’s picnic you just kinda knock it back and forth over the net and some of our guys think that’s all you have to do.” Marks said, “The only problem is when you put it over the net real nicely to the other team; they slam it back in your face.”