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Vol. IX Issue 7 - Prince George High School - 7801 Laurel Spring Rd - Prince George, VA 23875 - www.trnwired.org - 4.8.2011
Tanning Risks Exposed p.5
Junior Laken Adams relaxes in a tanning bed at Tan N’ Time. A proposed ban is being taken into consideration that would prohibit minors from accessing tanning salons. Photo by Alison Brown.
Clubs unite to aid japan p. 7
Inside the Sound of Music p. 17 FBLA battles at state Earth Day founder Well-known poetry slam competition noticed in Richmond acknowledges p. 6 environment p. 9 p. 15 The Future Business Leaders of America are going to the state competition. The state competition includes a variety of categories and tests. The competition will start on Apr. 8 and end on Apr. 10.
Andrew Garling along with two other classmates, a senator, and a representative, created Earth Day. The intention was to set aside a day to explore different ways to help and protect the environment.
SlamRichmond takes place every Saturday held at Solvent Space beginning at 8 p.m. It is a place where all people are welcome to cite poetry and enjoy the art. Slam offers workshops that start at 5 p.m. to create a greater understanding of the literary world.
the
page 2 - royalnews - 4.8.2011
the RoyalNews
O
Editor-in-Chief Jami Davis
Business Manager Janai Cunningham
Managing Editor Colby Eliades
Adviser
Chris Waugaman
Professional affiliations & awards Columbia Scholastic Press Associations Gold Medalist 2010 Columbia Scholastic Press Associations Silver Crown Winner 2011 Virginia High School Association Trophy Class 2010 Col. Charles Savedge Award for Sustained Excellence 2010 SIPA All Southern 2011
The Royal News, PGHS
7801 Laurel Spring Road Prince George, Virginia 23875 804-733-2720 The Royal News is printed at The Progress-Index in Petersburg, Virginia
C
Tanning creates harmful effects Editorial
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 A6, or e-mail them to cwaugaman@pgs.k12.va.us 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. Please submit letters to the editors by May 2nd for the upcoming issue. Section Editors Mariah Blystone: News/Online EditorKim Carneal: Op/Ed- Malikah Williams: Features- Ciara Ward: Ampersand-Jessica Marshall: A&E- Wayne Epps: Sports-Colby Eliades: Double Truck- Alison Brown: Photo/ Front Page Editor- Gabby Whittington: Ads Manager- Jake McQuiggan: CirculationSarah Moats: Editorial Cartoonist- Olivia Tritschler: Online Editor- Rachel Waymack: News- Rachel Youmans: Copy Editor Writers Kourtney Galvin-Rachael Karns-Gall Mandy Lockhart-Maggie Smith-Michael Winn-Jessica Demas-Kimberly EdmondsBest-Emily Gray-Kevin Harris-Unique Larry-Carson Stout-Michelle Williams-Rachel Williams-Tasia Faulcon-Amanda MajewskiRidhi Patel-Cassie Smith-Elizabeth Nerdig
Opinions&Editorials Custodians disrespected daily
T
anning in general is dangerous for all ages and skin types. Tanning under the sun’s rays is damaging enough, but the effects of artificial tanning beds are even harsher on the body. According to an article from 2003 on WebMD, exposure to ultraviolet rays has intense negative effects. This type of ray of light is highly responsible for the development of skin cancer. These rays thin the skin, making it harder for the skin to heal after it suffers from damage. Damage by ultraviolet rays are even more harmful when someone is exposed at a younger age. Included in the recently passed Health Care Bill is a ten percent tax on indoor tanning services. This tax makes running an indoor tanning salon more expensive, therefore making prices higher for customers. Many different associations and
organizations are also creating and supporting new policies that help to ban underage artificial tanning. This type of action has the potential to help the FDA create a similar ban. It is common among teens to use artificial tanning methods for events such as prom and other dances, senior pictures, and graduation. This exposes the younger generation to harmful ultraviolet rays. Artificial tanning should be avoided, as there are health risks. There are other ways to get a tan, such as using the sun’s natural rays, while wearing a relatively high SPF tanning lotion. Self-tanning lotions are available in most drug stores. Certain tanning salons also offer the option of a spray tan. Spray tans react with the dead skin cells to make the skin color darker. The spray tan method involves no ultraviolet rays and harsh side effects like cancer.
ustodians, janitors, sanitation workers, or sanitation engineers... whatever their names, they are all around us. I never thought as a senior, I would still have to hear one demeaning statement, “They’re just janitors and that’s what they’re here for.” According to a survey I conducted of hundred people, twenty-two people gabby whittington feel that custodians are uneducated and inferior to them in some way. Well, did you know that according to the chronicle there are 5,057 custodians employed in the United States with PhD’s? Did you know that Americans toss 195 million tons of garbage out each year? Every day of our lives we come into contact with this problem, because people refuse to care. Custodians are a vital part of our everyday lives, without them we would not be able to function throughout the day. I’m angered by the lack of respect and empathy to these individuals. Again according to the survey, seven people don’t believe that custodians deserve the same respect as someone they admire. Eleven people have admitted to leaving their trash because someone else is going to clean it up. I’m sure that there are more people guilty of this by how much trash is left on tables and the ground after each lunch block. Mr. T. shouldn’t have to make announcements about it after each lunch block, because I thought that we were high school students. Beazley Elementary school students sweep up after themselves before leaving the cafeteria. Don’t you think it’s a bit sad that they are more responsible and we’re “adults”? I want you as human beings to show decency to those who do all of the work that you don’t want to. If everyone was to do their part and clean up, I can guarantee you that we would not have to deal with these conditions.
Opinions&Editorials
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page 3 - royalnews - 4.8.2011
Pro/Con: Is Internet destroying the truth?
The Internet is becoming more advanced and faster for accessing information. The problem is wondering if all the information found is accurate. The proposition being debated: Is the information found on the Internet reliable?
I
t’s true that the Internet makes it very easy to find quick facts whenever you need them. But are the facts that you are receiving accurate? In 2008, Google CEO Eric Schmidt gave an interview to Cnet News on his views about the information quality of the Internet. “The Internet is a cesspool where false information thrives, but the cesspool is one of the by products of the Internet,” Schmidt said. With no barriers to entry and limited production and distribution, it is easy for false information, lies, doctored images, and other forms of deception to exist on the Internet. To put this to the test I decided to go on Wikipedia, Jake mcquiggan Rachel williams which is a site that has millions of articles for anyone to see. These articles appear very professional and are interesting to read. But I do not agree that these articles are completely Changing facts accurate. Just by giving Wikipedia my e-mail and a password, I “Just by giving automatically became a member of the site. As a member, I can change any article that is not locked. Wikipedia my e-mail A great example of this was after this year’s Grammy and a password, I Awards. The day after singer Justin Bieber lost Best New Artist automatically become to Esperanza Spalding, Spalding’s Wikipedia page was slammed a member of the site. with horrible comments and remarks from angry Bieber fans. As a member, I can The fans gave her a new middle name and even told her to go die in a hole. This information was removed but still made the singer change any article that look bad on her own page. is not locked.” Internet news also can turn a little rumor into a big fiasco. When Justin Bieber’s girlfriend, Selena Gomez, had a cold sore False Reports on her lip, news reports had a field day. Numerous reports said a Bieber fan hit her and went as far as saying that Justin beat her up. “Incidents where The Internet is great for some things, but getting the right celebrity information information doesn’t always happen. Lies and deception move is leaked incorrectly throughout the internet like a virus through the body.
PRO
Con
are seen everyday in magazines and books.”
T
he Internet can be a completely reliable source of information if you know where to look. The Internet itself is not distorting the truth, but the people are. It is our responsibility now to determine what can be trusted and what cannot. For students, the library has provided a list of several reputable sites to perform research, such as Ebscohost and Infotrac. The student and teacher resources are checked for accuracy. We are encouraged to search through the ones provided, but if we must seek elsewhere, there are plenty of dependable web sites full of honest information, such as government web sites (.gov), educational sites (.edu), and nonprofit organizations (.org). You can easily determine a web site’s dependability by knowing what to look for. Check for currency, validity, content, and purpose. Web sites that have been recently updated will most likely have more accurate information, and will have most likely been around for a while. The creators and editors will be listed along with their credentials. Also, the web site will have sources linked to take you further, proving their information. If the web site is created just for informational purposes, the content will most likely be more reliable. Be sure that a certain group isn’t being promoted, like a religion, race, club, or gender. When it comes to celebrity gossip, check the web sites with high reputations, such as Entertainment Weekly or People. Personal blogs will not have the access to the same sources that popular tabloids do. The information may be truthful on blogs, but also biased. Incidents where celebrity information is leaked incorrectly are seen everyday in magazines and books. Keep in mind how much of this gossip is actually true in the first place, regardless of where you read it. The Internet is a great and easy way to conduct research, but it is merely a tool in human hands. We choose what to put on there, and users need to choose what to believe. Know what you’re looking for, and know how to discern between what is true information and what is not.
Authors Guild, the Association of American Publishers bring books to new horizon
I
f you read books and browse the Internet, you’ve probably come across Google Books. The online archive hosts more than 15 million books. Some classics in the public domain can be read in their entirety for free; other books can be downloaded for a price. I’ve used the Rachel youmans site myself to view samples of books, although I prefer Amazon when reading entire books.
Now the site is coming upon major changes. Google recently came to a settlement with the Authors Guild and the Association of American Publishers (AAP) that would give the company access to millions more books, and give authors another method of selling their work digitally. Unfortunately, as the presiding judge Denny Chin pointed out, it would also grant Google a “de facto monopoly.” Critics point out that without any competitor at the same level Google could ask whichever price they want. Judge Chin rejected the settlement, telling the groups to revise it.
Without a doubt, this would be an exciting development. The choice of ebooks available from Amazon and Barnes & Noble has been large, but still very finite. Such a hugely expanded selection would be mind-blowing. But are we ready to give one corporation that much power? It’s not like companies in this business have been completely fair in the past; just over a year ago Amazon removed an entire publishing company, Macmillan, from its catalog because of a pricing disagreement. The act made it much harder for customers to find and purchase Macmillan’s books, depriving
the company and its authors of money. If this settlement passed, nothing could stop Google from pulling the same trick at a much larger scale. Is that a risk we are willing to take? Some opponents have proposed an alternative: a free public library set up in the same vein as Google Books. Such a library would follow copyright laws and could not take advantage of users. An online library with every published book is incredibly exciting, whoever runs it. We should offer support to these movements, in the interest of spreading information and entertainment.
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page 4 - royalnews - 4.8.2011
Congratulations to the Royal Batallion for a 98.1% on the Annual Formal Inspection. The Royal Battalion maintains its HONOR UNIT OF DISTINCTION for the 17th consecutive year. Special congratulations to the Royal Battalion Staff for (maxing out) the command briefing and their respected staff area. Additionally, all cadets that participated in the inspection and commended for their effort.
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page 5 - royalnews - 4.8.2011
Dangers of tanning initiate possible restrictions
New recommendations seek to protect young people Malikah Williams trn editor
W
i t h the approach o f prom season, students have begun to prepare by finding their perfect dress or tuxedo, making travel arrangements, and tanning. However, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) has issued a new policy that supports laws that would prohibit teens under the age of 18 from accessing tanning salons and artificial tanning devices. The AAP’s new policy is supported by the World Health Organization, the American Medical Association, and the American Academy of Dermatology.
“Tanning is very hazardous to students’ health because it increases the risk of getting skin cancer, which can be deadly, and lots of people die from skin cancer, even the young,” School Nurse Kim Smith said. According to boston.com/health, tanning once can increase the chance of skin cancer by 75%. The process of tanning is very harmful, yet many people are unaware of what actually is happening. “UV rays break down the fat in the cell and create free radicals, tanning is giving a more casual dose of UV rays which makes the body respond by generating melanin to protect itself,” Chemistry teacher Dr. Kevin Moore said. The creation of these free radicals is responsible for the long term effects of tanning. “Many of the aging theories are related to free radicals, which break down the cell’s ability to stretch which can lead to leathery skin and skin cancers,” Moore said. Despite the harmful nature of tanning, many students continue to partake in the activity. “I tan every other day or sometimes every day, but I do not think that tanning is harmful if done in moderation,” junior
Laken Adams said. Though there are many teens that do tan, there are also teens that choose to abstain because of the risks involved. “I do not tan so that way there are no wrinkles and no scabs,” junior Mackenzie Topian said. Topian has personally seen some of the effects constant exposure to UV rays can have and has taken steps to protect herself from a similar fate. “I am not allowed to tan because my mom had a type of skin cancer so I am more likely to have it,” Topian said. There are many alternatives to exposure to UV rays in a tanning bed that produce the same goal of tan skin. Options include spray tans, tanning lotions, and monitored exposure to sunlight. “A spray tan is quicker and more affordable,” Topian said. Currently in Virginia, any child under the age of 13 must obtain parental consent in order to tan at a tanning salon. Many states’ laws would change if the proposed ban came into effect. “I would agree with such a ban because until teens reach a mature adult age, they do not realize the risks they take are harmful to them,” Smith said. “Parents should have to give their in-
Senior Emily Clanton lies in a tanning bed at her employer UV Tan. If the proposed ban goes into effect minors would be prohibited from accessing tanning salons. Photo By Alison Brown. formed consent on something like this.” Even though the proposed ban is meant to protect teens from tanning at the tanning salons, it does not have any stipulations on tanning in tanning beds at home. Many frequent teen tanners oppose such a ban. “I think a ban like that would be stupid because it does not matter if you are young or old, tanning is still going to have its effects,” senior Samantha Dalton said. “I would still find a way to tan even if this ban happens.” In wake of prom season and other important events, students often go tanning to get a desired look, but while tanning may not appear to be harmful right now, it does have adverse lasting effects. “The luxury of having a temporary tan does not outweigh the risk of losing someone’s life or having complications later on in life,” Smith said.
News
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page 6- royalnews - 4.8.2011
FBLA state competitors travel to Reston Students hope to showcase business career skills, qualify for nationals
Briefs
Prom will be held Apr. 30 at the Fort Lee Regimental Club from 8pm- 12am. Tickets will be sold until Apr. 14 for $15.
Michael Winn trn writer
T
he Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) members look ahead to the FBLA State Competitions held in Reston, Va, from Apr. 8 through Apr. 10. Competitions take place in all categories, including CIS, Business Math, Public Speaking, along with many others. The competition tests help to prepare students for careers in business by allowing them to demonstrate what they have learned and already know. “The FBLA is not just a club, but an addition to the classroom,” business teacher Donna Nichols said. Students who are competing, business teachers Cheryl Reifer and Ayana Washington, and a few other active FBLA members who are going as delegates will be attending the FBLA state competition. Only those students who placed first or second in their category at the local competitions during the Spring FBLA Conference, held recently at Surry County High School, will participate in the state level competitions. FBLA students placed in all of the tests they entered. “The past local FBLA competition was a lot of fun and I had a great time, and I am really looking forward to going to the state competitions,” said senior Rachel Crawford. The competitors for each of those categories and tests on the local level were, for Accounting 1, junior Rachel Youmans, Accounting 2, junior Jhonice Lewis, Business Communications, senior Rachel Crawford, Computer Applications, junior Amber Isham,
News
After Prom will be held Apr. 30 at Swader’s from 11pm4am. The $20 cost of the ticket includes all of the games and rides as well as pizza and drinks.
and for Desktop Publishing, the team of senior Katie Christopher and junior Laken Adams. Of these students, those who placed first or second in their category will go on to compete in states. If they place there, then they will move on to the National FBLA competition held in Orlando, Fl, this year. “Preparation is mainly done through the classroom, and in addition, each student is given a manual by the state department, the same manual which all of our business class competencies come from,” Nichols said. “But the things you are tested on are associated with and come from the competencies taught in the classroom.” The testing process seeks to find the best students in each field and can hence be strenuous for the business competitors. “Many of these tests are given online, so that competitors know exactly
FBLA student junior Amber Isham prepares for states by practicing her skills on the computer. Isham placed 2nd in Computer Applications in the local competition on Feb. 18 Photo by Rachel Waymack. how they did as soon as they finish,” Nichols said. “This can also be stressful because they are being timed and have a lot of pressure on them having to use the computers and all.” The first place winner in Accounting 1, junior Rachel Youmans, scored a seventy-eight, and the highest score in the state was an eighty one. “It was an interesting experience since I was afraid I wouldn’t do very well, but after I was finished, I felt more comfortable about it,” Youmans said. “I was very excited when I finally found out that I had won. I will be super excited if I get to go on to the nationals. ”
The Walk Against Drugs and Alcohol will be held Apr. 9 and will feature a 5K Race as well as a free rock wall, obstacle course, and derby run. SGA elections for the Executive Board will be held Apr. 13 and 14 during all lunch blocks. You must have your student ID to vote.
News
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page 7 - royalnews - 4.8.2011
Glimmer of optimism appears for tsunami victims Clubs team up to assist Japan with the destruction caused by natural disasters
By the
numbers
9.0 on the richter scale
Rachael Karns-Gall trn writer
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he number of people missing and dead as a result of the earthquake and tsunami in Japan, on March 11, 2011, has risen to over 21,000. Teachers and students are stepping forward to help with the relief effort through clubs. Yearbook Advisor Allison Heath started to organize a fundraiser once she heard about the news, along with Student Government Association president, Hope song. Both have family in Japan, and felt the need to help. “When I heard about the earthquake, I thought I was going to throw up. I heard it on T. V. while brushing my teeth and was literally nauseous the whole way to school. I didn’t know about the tsunami until the end of first block when I turned on the news with my class,” Heath said. The Student Government Association, Yearbook, Fellowship of Christian Athletes, Newspaper, and National Honors Society teamed up to sponsor a bake sale on Friday, April 1 from which all proceeds went to the Japan relief. “Mrs. Smallwood was concerned about students buying things that they didn’t know what was in them. So, we’re bringing in and donating store bought stuff, but now all the money we make goes to Japan. We don’t have to subtract out the money for buying any food,” Song said. Sponsors of the clubs decided to team up and help gather donations. “I was already considering a personal donation, but students came to me asking about helping out when they heard about SGA, and I thought it would be a great time to team up. Clubs don’t really team up for much here, especially on this level, and I think it’s a great cause to do it for,” Fellowship of Christian Athletes sponsor Monica Curtis said. The Japanese club also sponsored a hat day for the cause. This also occurred on April 1st. They raised $71 dollars total.
makes this the strongest earthquake in Japan’s history.
2,000 bodies found
dead in Miyagi Prefecture, one
of the hardest hit cities.
10,000 people are Senior Hope Song and sophomore Dallas Smith bag donated baked goods. A bake sale was held on Apr .1, and helped raise a total of $1,446.73 for Japan and the relief efforts. Photo by Colby Eliades. “I thought that with Japanese club, we should do something, and then Ms. Heath approached me, and I thought it would be a perfect time to do it,” Japanese club sponsor Marcia Skiffington said. Students have different motivations for helping out with the relief. Most just feel sympathy for the Japanese but some have personal connections. “I was at home eating dinner at like seven and my dad turned on the news. I was devastated and scared. They weren’t saying exact places where the tsunami hit, and I wasn’t sure if it hit where my grandfather was, in Okinawa. I still haven’t heard from him,” junior Gerald Jackson said. Teachers stepped up to the bar and donated all proceeds from their denim day on April first to Japan. The total the donated was $455 dollars.
“I didn’t hear about it the day it happened. Once I heard I felt complete sadness. You can’t help but imagine- what if? What if it was us? You just can’t even relate,” Curtis said. Students and staff are shaken by the event, with a mass feeling of despair and sympathy, but also have strong feelings of hope for the Japanese and their families. “I was really sad when I woke up and heard it on the news,” senior Alyissa Gambill said. “I was inspired to help out because I knew that if it was us, other people would help, and I knew that they were so devastated.” “I just intended for this fundraiser to be for SGA, but I think it’s really cool that all these other clubs are helping out, because now I feel like we really are a leadership organization, and that our school is going to make a difference,” Song said.
still missing in Minamisanriku alone.
0 gallons of gas is given out, except for emergency service vehicles.
1.4 million
are without adequate water sources. Numbers from :http://renohomevoices. com/2011/03/14/japan-9-0-earthquakestatistics-earthquake-statistics-facts-japantsunami-facts-statistics/
Features
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page 8 - royalnews - 4.8.2011
Favorite teachers inspire students’ future success Jami Davis trn editor
Recently U.S. History teacher Polly Williamson won Teacher of the Year for PGHS, and Head Custodian Bryan Griffin was announced as Support Staff Member of the Year. Students were asked to share their choices for their favorite teachers, and explain what makes that teacher their favorite.
“My favorite teacher is Mr. Owens. He is funny and makes class exciting,” senior Xavier Espino said. “My favorite teacher is Mr. Pelter. He makes class interesting, enjoyable, and he keeps control of the class,” senior Tierra Walker said. “My favorite teacher is Mrs. Webb. She is super cool, really nice, and she teaches simple and to the point,” senior Brittany Titus said. “My favorite teacher is Mrs. Britt. She is really down to earth and really encouraging,” senior Mariah Thacker said.
Clockwise from top left: Seniors Xavier Espino, Tierra Walker, Brittany Titus, and Mariah Thacker.
“My favorite teacher is Mrs. Wilson. She is funny, hands on, and is not afraid to tell you that you are doing something wrong,” junior Edison Bell said. “My favorite teacher is Mrs. Luckett. She has a good personality and is understanding,” junior Kevin Ardin. “My favorite teacher is Mr. Hettinger. He makes class fun and relates it to real life situations,” junior McKenzie Pierce said. “My favorite teacher is Mrs. Roberts. She is really nice and laid back,” junior Brooke Stovall said.
Clockwise from top left: Juniors Edison Bell, Kevin Ardin, McKenzie Pierce, and Brooke Stovall.
“My favorite teacher is Mr. Carr because he is really nice and tells a lot of jokes,” sophomore Doug Davis said. “My favorite teacher is Ms. Franchok. She actually teaches and she makes everything hands on,” sophomore Joseph Hamilton said. “My favorite teacher is Mrs. Owens. She is really sweet and patient,” sophomore Alayna Myrick said.
A student shows their appreciation for English teacher John Pelter by giving him an apple, as the apple is a common symbol for teacher appreciation. Photo by Alison Brown.
“My favorite teacher is Mr. Carr. He makes class fun and he gives a lot of outlines and study guides,” sophomore Mikayla Crookshanks said.
Clockwise from top left: Sophomores Doug Davis, Joseph Hamilton ,Alayna Myrick, Mikayla Crookshanks.
features
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page 9 - royalnews - 4.8.2011
Earth Day founder calls for awareness Andrew Garling stresses importance of protecting the environment
April 22nd, 2011 marks the 41st anniversary of Earth Day which was created in 1970 by Gaylord Nelson.
Rachel Waymack trn editor
W
hile enrolled in Harvard University’s graduate programs for both medicine and government, Andrew Garling and two of his classmates, Denis Hayes and Stephen Cotton, had been frustrated by the lack of change regarding the war in Vietnam. They decided to use a project assigned in their public policy program to bring about this awareness in regard to the environment. The Andrew Garling project resulted in the now globally celebrated Earth Day, Apr. 22. “People had been talking about the environment, like Senator Gaylord Nelson and Representative Pete McCloskey, so we got together with them and said ‘let’s create a teach-in on the environment’,” Garling said. Garling and his associates succeeded in getting Earth Day to be something done locally as numerous colleges and high schools around the country participated on Apr. 22, 1970. “Two thousand colleges and 10,000 high schools participating were a little more than we expected,” Garling said. Earth Day continues to be something that is promoted and participated in through school clubs and organizations across the country. “We [the ecology club] sponsor the sale of Earth Day t-shirts to be worn on Earth Day to help make people more aware,” ecology club sponsor Mary Hallman said. Students also recognize and appreciate the importance of Earth Day Garling helped to organize and how it could be used to combat many of the world’s current
E arth Day
Denis Hayes (far left) assembled a team of Harvard students to develop events which would later become the first Earth Day. Founding member Andrew Garling (right of Hayes) poses with Arturo Sandoval, Stephen Cotton, Barbara Reid, and Bryce Hamilton . Photo printed with permission from A. Garling. environmental problems. “With so much going on in the world, we do not pay attention to how our world’s problems could be prevented,” junior ecology club president Aaron Raines said. “Even with global disasters and global warming it [Earth Day] gets overlooked and the earth’s health just gets worse and worse.” Garling from the beginning hoped for widespread participation in Earth Day and resulting awareness. “I think it [the message of Earth Day] is always the same,” Garling said, “Look around and do something about the things that are hurting where you live, get involved and get aware.” The ecology club encourages students to make small changes in their lives in order to help the earth, not only on Earth Day, but all year long. “[Students] should do something as simple as recycle or at least not throw their trash on the ground,” Raines said. “They could also try to use less gas; carpool.” Through their efforts, Ecology Club students hope to inspire students to take a
permanent, active part in caring for the earth. “Just because it is Earth Day, it should not be the only day people clean up,” sophomore ecology club member Theresa Updike said, “it [Earth Day] should be a reminder that lots of people still litter and that we need to work together to clean the earth.” Due to the ever changing nature of Earth Day and the environment itself, Garling has high hopes for the future of Earth Day. “Earth Day still has life and the future is good,” Garling said. “People are going to continue to threaten the environment and there will continue to be people who wake up and want to stop the threat.” Garling and his associates’ activism in organizing Earth Day has inspired awareness in people that the earth does not have infinite resources and that it is up to humans to care for it. “Students should learn that Earth Day is a big deal, not just some dumb little holiday,” Raines said. “When it is all said and done it is our planet; we have to live on it so we need to take responsibility for our world.”
The first Earth Day led to the creation of the United States Environmental Protection Agency and the passage of the Clean Air, Clean Water, and Endangered Species Acts Earth Day 1990 gave increased recycling efforts worldwide and helped pave the way for the 1992 United Nations Earth Summit in Rio de Janeiro. President Bill Clinton awarded Senator Nelson the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 1995 for his role as Earth Day founder. Source: http://www.earthday.org/ earth-day-history-movement
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page 10 - royalnews - 4.8.2011
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page 12 - royalnews - 4.8.2011
. Reduce . reu
Recycling goes through a long process. Whether it be newspapers, classroom or home, to the plant where they are processed, to the fina shopping centers for p
Step 2
The second step in this process is sorting materials l plastics, and papers, as well as things like wood and This step consists of many steps, as each material go through a different process. The sorted products then companies like Tidewater Fiber Corporation to be pro
Amanda Majewski trn writer
As a member of the Ecology Club, junior Joseph Clements recycles newspaper in the appropriate bin in the teacher parking lot.
The first step in the recycling process starts at home or in the classroom with placing recyclable materials in the appropriate bins. These materials are then collected by companies like Container First Services to be sorted. This may be the most important step in the entire recycling process; without actually deciding to recycle, the process would not exist.
step 1
E
nvironmental problems have been caused by humans. People freely take resources from the Earth, but put back mostly harmful waste that pollutes our planet. Much of the waste such as aluminum, glass, and most plastics are not biodegradable. People can recycle these materials by sending them back to be used again instead of throwing them away. “Recycling is a good idea and the Ecology Club is serious about it. We try to teach students the good life-long habit of recycling,” said Ecology Club sponsor Mary Hallman. The school began recycling about two years ago, when the Ecology Club students got involved to cut back on the amount of garbage thrown away by the school. “People should recycle because it is good for the environment. The more material that is recycled means the less material that is landfilled. Additionally, when recycled materials are used to make new products, fewer resources are used,” said Robert Guidry President and CEO of Container First Services and TriCity Regional Landfill. When people opt to recycle their trash, it pays off in a calculable way. “For example, recycling paper instead of making it from new materials generates 74% less
air pollution and uses aluminum can saves en watt light bulb for 20 h hours, or a TV for two Good decision m beginning the habit of “The recycling pr and consumer level. It the right decision to pl a container that is sepa proven that more peop when they place all the container, called comi separating the plastics, glass,” Guidry said. The recyclable m curb and taken away b Fiber Corporation. “The recyclables like Container First Se to recycling processors Corporation located in transfer station which summer,” Guidry said. Once at the recyc items must go through the recycling process. “The recycling pr contaminates and sorts
the
page 13 - royalnews - 4.8.2011
use . recycle Habits .
plastic bottles, or aluminum cans, all start from the recycling bin in the al product where recycled material may end up in convenience stores or purchase by consumers.
like glass, concrete. oes n go to ocessed.
50% less water. One recycled nough energy to run a 100hours, a computer for three o hour,” Guidry said. making is the first step in recycling. rocess begins at the household t starts with people making lace recyclable materials in arate from their trash. It is ple participate in recycling eir recyclables in one ingle recycling, as opposed to , from the paper, and from the
materials are picked up at the back to places like Tidewater
are collected by companies ervices. We haul the materials s like Tidewater Fiber n Chester, Virginia or our is slated to be completed this
cling processors, the recyclable h more steps before they finish
rocessor removes s the recycling items. The
A machine shreds old wood into mulch at CFS in Petersburg, Va. The mulch is then sold to companies that may sell it to consumers. recyclables are then sold to end users who use the recycled materials to make new products. For example, a paper mill will buy the recycled paper and use it to make new paper products,” Guidry said. There are a number of environmental benefits to recycling. “The benefits are many. Recycling saves landfill space. It saves energy and cuts down on pollution,” Hallman said. “It is also less harmful than taking the raw materials from the environment.” Landfills, large holes in the ground into which garbage is dumped and then covered with soil, generate methane gases which are harmful for the environment. “TriCity Regional Landfill is in the process of capturing the methane gases that are generated. The gases will be used to generate power, hence we will be recycling the harmful gases”, said Guidry. There are no negative effects from recycling. There is nothing to lose, it is free, and only takes a little time. CFS is a company that collects trash and recyclables from commercial businesses and construction projects. Some of their customers are Prince George Government and Public Schools, Dinwiddie County, Richard Bland College, and a number of other companies. They will be starting residential trash pickups this year to make it even easier on people to recycle.
The third step consists of the actual processing of the sorted materials - paper, plastic, glass, etc. After they are processed, the materials can be made into new materials like plastic bottles, aluminum cans and other paper products. Finally, these new products come back to the consumer, who then recycle them again, and the process starts over.
step 3
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page 15 - royalnews - 4.8.2011
SlamRichmond promotes popularity of literary world Local event exemplifies poetic talent of youth Olivia Tritschler trn editor
T
he audience waits in anticipation as a young adult walks up to the mic and recites a poem. Every Saturday night, people of all ages participate in a poetry competition called SlamRichmond. The event welcomes people who want to participate or those who just go to encourage friends and family, without having to pay. SlamRichmond also holds live broadcasts of the show at SlamRichmond.tv for those who cannot come out and watch. “I just listen and enjoy the audience. I go because you never know what you will hear and it is neat to see how creative people can get,” junior Rachel Arnold said. Before the event’s recent move, it was held at ArtSpace which is a non-profit gallery for visual and performing arts in Richmond. Now it is housed in a renovated garage called Solvent Space located across from Plant Zero. “The place is always fun and upbeat,” junior Ashley Moore said. “No one there tries to really compete, even though it’s a slam. I like how it is laid back, and how Rachel Williams’ brother [Jason Moore] is trying to bring back the arts.” Writing workshops start the night off at 5 p.m. Classes have been instructed by famous poets and writers including Marty McConnell, The Klute, and Carlos Andres Gomez. At 7:30 p.m. participants are allowed to sign up for the open mic competition, which starts at 8 p.m. “I haven’t taken a workshop,” Moore said. “But I would love to go once just to see how the environment is.” SlamRichmond worked its way up to become a well known event and is now known as Virginia’s longest and
best-ranked poetry slam. Both Style Weekly and Urban Weekly have featured SlamRichmond in their magazines, and the 2008 team advanced to the semifinals in the National Poetry Slam held in Wisconsin. The event can be found on MySpace and Facebook. “SlamRichmond started like six years ago and has been getting better and better every year,” youth and adult team coach Roscoe Burnems said. “Tom SanchezPrunier was once the more prominent host and coach of SlamRichmond but then John Survivor Blake took over the team in 2007, and after a rough start and a lot of drama, ended up improving the team.” SlamRichmond created a name for itself through hard work and dedication. It draws in people to participate in the poetry slam and enjoy the fun. “In the slam community,
SlamRichmond is well known,” Burnems said. “Poets from across the country come to feature here because of the reputation we built as strong writers. We are known but could always stand to grow.” The event involves the hard work of multiple people to be able to take place. In order to continue its success, SlamRichmond needs people interested in learning and improving their writing skills. “SlamRichmond has always been a place for people to grow,” Burnems said. “It is all free so it is comfortable and affordable for all, but we do accept donations.” SlamRichmond supports individuals to advance their writing through taking chances on paper and in front of a crowd. The event’s ultimate goal is to create greater understanding of the literary world. “I like it because I get to hear all
Roscoe Burnems performs his own literary work at SlamRichmond. This event started seven years ago and since has been a success. Photo by Alison Brown. kinds of poetry about things I would have never thought of,” Arnold said. “I especially like a poem when I can apply it to my life.” SlamRichmond helps people of all ages improve their skills in poetry by expressing their passions and thoughts through their own writing. The event creates an environment for imagination and creativity to grow while competing with each other. “It really helped me master my craft as a writer and performer,” Burnems said. “It has provided an outlet for troubled teens and adults.”
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A&E
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page 17 - royalnews - 4.8.2011
Behind the curtain: Sound of Music Performers provide insight, feelings about upcoming musical Ridhi Patel trn writer Maria Kutschera Played by Mara Barrett Captain Von Trapp Played by Russell Slouffman Describe your character? Mara: “Maria is very playful, really naïve and is trying to find out what it is she is supposed to do in life, what her purpose is.” Russell: “Captain Von Trapp is very strict because he lost his wife and is in the military. Bottom line kind of guy.” What is the conflict between the two characters? Mara: “Maria and Captain don’t get off on the right foot, he is very strict and Maria goes there and does everything he says. She realizes that he runs his house like the ship and that how he treats his kids is inhuman. But when they fall in love, she does not know what to do. Russell: “Maria is more outgoing, loving and caring, and she is willing to accept different things. On the other hand, Captain Von Trapp is more strict and you have to follow his directions.” What is your favorite song? Mara: “I have seen Sound of Music so many times that I have a personal thing with each song.” Russell: “So Long Farewell.” What is your favorite scene? Mara: “When you first meet the Von Trapp kids and the Captain blows his whistle and they come running out and they march and say their names.” Russell: “When Captain and Maria is yelling back and forth at each other right before the kids sing, she took the kids out to play and he does not like it.”
Photo by Michael Winn.
How do you relate to the character? Mara: “I really like the playfulness of Maria and her care free spirit. I love it.” Russell: “My dad is in the military.” What is the most challenging thing you have to do? Mara: “Getting into costumes and remembering all the lines can be tricky.” Russell: “To act more strict and defined.” Have you done something like this before? Mara: “Yes, I was Jasmine in Aladdin, Wicked, and Willy Wonka.” Russell: “A play like this, no. But I was a part of Gypsy, Pippin at Fort Lee, High School Musical 2, and Boyfriend.”
What is your favorite part of the whole play? Mara: “When everyone comes together and sings and all that.” Russell: “The songs, music, and vocals.” How do you feel about the cast this year? Mara: “I think the cast is really talented and I see talent in each person.” Russell: “I think that all the right parts where given to all the right people. For example, the choir members got the singing parts, so we don’t have to worry about people not knowing how to sing.” How do you feel about your role in the play? Mara: “I feel like it is a challenge but I am up to do it.” Russell: “I am very happy about it.”
Thinking before speaking pays off
W
ith a camera and a voice, you can say whatever you want to and show it to whoever you want to. But just because you have that freedom to speak your mind, doesn’t mean you should always use that ability. Recently in the Jessica Marshall news, there has been controversy over a video uploaded on YouTube by a former UCLA student, Alexandra Wallace. In the video, she clearly expressed her prejudice attitude toward the Japanese race. Posting such a video when Japan is in a dangerous state and needs help adds to the controversy. Anyone with a heart feels for the people of Japan and would not post such a hateful video. As a result, Wallace has received death threats and has had to drop out of school, all because she did not think before she talked. Another prime example is the infamous Charlie Sheen. I loved Two and a Half Men, but now, I hate turning the show on. Many fans of the show have lost respect for Sheen just because of his inability to keep his comments to himself and his excessive arrogance. We’ve all been told, “If you can’t say anything nice, don’t say anything at all.” This expression has all but disappeared from society. Walk through the hallways between classes and you will hear plenty of condescending comments made by students. If I said I didn’t talk about some people, I’d be lying. But unlike Wallace and Sheen, I don’t voice my opinions for the whole world to hear. If you feel the need to make rude comments, do not do it in public because you never know who will be listening. There is a time and place for every comment, but it should not be while you are in public. There is no need to publicize your opinions because everyone has their own and may not agree.
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Gamer’s Corner
page 19 - royalnews - 4.8.2011
Nintendo joins 3-D bandwagon
E
Best and worst sequels
very company’s making their devices and electronics 3-D compatible because it’s what’s “in”. So Nintendo jumped on that bandwagon like any good corporate giant and made the possible successor or in my opinion, the partner to their wildly successful Ni nt e n d o D S . Garrett Albright Why only a partner, what about a complete takeover to only 3Ds’s, leaving the lite’s and DSi’s behind? Well, for that answer, keep on reading for my review of the Nintendo 3DS. I’ll start this review out with my confession that I’m a huge critic of 3-D and I’m not at all into the craze. With that out of the way, I was curious about this device of Nintendo’s who claimed you didn’t need 3-D glasses for the 3-D to actu-
ally work. Needless to say, upon seeing that, I was interested and had to find out how it worked. Well, for those of you who haven’t used a 3DS yet, I’m going to paint you a picture of it: instead of the 3-D coming out of the screen in traditional fashion, instead, it’s more like you’re looking into the screen, seeing a deep image, and having the 3-D go down into the screen. I was really surprised at how well it worked, and how crisp it looked, but yes: the 3-D part of the 3DS works really well, which is the devices selling point. Looking at other features of the 3DS, I was less than impressed, and slightly worried. For example, there is a neat little 3-D
slider on the side of the top screen that lets you control how strong the 3-D is, or turn it off or on. With the 3-D all the way up, the battery is lucky to last 5 hours, which kind of limits the portability of a portable device. As with any video game, playing for extended times isn’t advised, but with 3-D turned on, it’s advised to not play for more than an hour at a time. But, that could also be made into a positive: playing for less, means you only need less battery life. Other significant features include an actual analog stick for the first time on a DS along with the traditional DS d-pad. The start, select, and new home button have been moved to below the touch
screen for easier access when using the touch screen. Playing on the 3DS, was just like any other hand held device, and felt just like older DS’s. The 3-D wasn’t overpowering, or annoying, which I almost expected it to be. There aren’t a ton of games out for it right now, but there are a few powerhouse titles such as Mario, Starfox, and Sonic that are in production, and are highly anticipated. Now for the worst part: the price. Right now, you can grab the 3DS for $249.99, which makes me think it’s really not worth it when you can get the same system, the DSi or XL, for $169.99 and $189.99 respectively, which leaves you paying at least $60 for 3-D content. While really fun, and a good idea with 3-D content that actually works well, I just don’t think it’s worth the price right now. So you should probably wait for the expected price drop in a few weeks.
Fashion Show Photo Gallery Online at TRNWIRED.org Scan the barcode with your smartphone to access a slideshow of fashion show.
Junior Emily Kidd
Junior Michael Harrison
Sophomore Tim Acosta
Twilight: New Moon
Like Mike 2
The Hills Have Eyes 2
“After I read the books, I decided to see the movies to see if they were better or worse than the books. The movies continued with the story and they also all kept the same actors. “
This was my least favorite sequel because it was too low budget compared to the first one. It also came straight to DVD and did not come out in theaters. The actors were also low budget and they had no talent.”
“I did not like this movie. It was weird, and it didn’t make any sense. They did not keep the same actors and the acting was corny. The story line was confusing.”
SPORTS
the
page 20 - royalnews - 4.8.2011
Injuries plague players’ seasons this spring Bryce Hayes, Taylor Worley work hard to return to playing field Wayne Epps, Jr. trn editor
A
n athlete takes a seat in a physician’s room after sustaining an injur y. The doctor walks in and gives the athlete some heart-breaking news: they will be out for part or all of the season to come. Junior baseball player Bryce Hayes and senior softball player Taylor Worley are two athletes who have been sidelined with injuries that will shorten or end their seasons this spring. Hayes suffered a right knee injury that will keep him out the entire high school season. Worley has a surgically repaired shoulder that will keep her out for a good portion of the softball season. Hayes’s injury came off of the diamond back in February. While playing with his brother, he tore the anterior cruciate ligament, medial meniscus, and fractured his knee cap. “I was messing around with my brother and we were playing football, and I stopped, legs went one way, body folded over top of me, and that’s all she wrote,” Hayes said. Worley suffered a shoulder injury two or three years ago. She had surgery on the shoulder in late 2010. The origin of the injury is unknown. “I don’t know, probably falling or throwing too much,” Worley said. After sustaining an injury, athletes go through rehab to help the injury to heal. Rehab can consist of a number of different types of exercises. Hayes’s rehab is fairly restricted at this point in the recovery process. However, he describes the rehab as “painful”. “The rehab right now is staying in physical therapy,” Hayes said. “But, when I do get to where I can run and do all that stuff, I’ll be going out to practice
Senior Taylor Worley runs back to the dugout after participating in a drill during softball practice on Mon., Apr. 4. She has missed all of the season so far due to shoulder surgery. Photo by Wayne Epps, Jr. and doing all kinds of different stuff to strengthen my knee and get back to where I need to be.” Right now, Worley is able to be out on the field with her team to work on rehab exercises. She does a variety of different things to work on getting her shoulder back to form. “Pushups, hitting, throwing, different band exercises, lifting weights, and a lot of core exercises,” Worley said.
Besides being roadblocks in the individual careers of players, injuries also can have a large affect on the teams that the athletes are missing from. The baseball team will miss Hayes’s experience, leadership, and hustle. The pitcher/outfielder was a starter for most of last season. “He’s a guy that’s a go-getter, and will get after it and dive after balls,” baseball coach Mickey Roberts said. “We
are going to miss his hustle.” Worley was the leadoff hitter for the softball team during the last couple of seasons. She has served as a leader on offensive for the Lady Royals. Filling her spot in the lineup has been challenging for coach Pat Waguespack. “We’ve had to scramble and [have] been filling [Worley’s spot] with younger players that have come up and [are] doing well,” Waguespack said. “But, finding out what the right mix and the right players are has been a challenge.” Since Worley is a senior and will go on to play college softball at Eastern Mennonite University, her recovery process is really watched closely to ensure that she is not rushed back too quickly. “One of the things that we’re trying to do is make sure that we don’t mess up her college season, with the physical therapist and the surgeon making sure that she’s healed completely,” Waguespack said. Hayes is not looking to be back playing baseball until July. He was hoping to be a first team all-Central District player this season and he was also hoping to get recruited by more colleges. Despite not being able to play in a Royals uniform this year, Hayes is planning on playing with the Braves Elite travel baseball team this summer. Worley is much closer to being able to play again. Waguespack expects that she may be back offensively around spring break. Worley set goals for herself for this season as well. “I was hoping to get either first team or second team for the all-state team, but since I’m not going to be able to play, I probably will not do that,” she said. Injuries can be a nuisance for athletes and throw a wrench into the goals and plans set for themselves and for their teams. However, at the end of the day, they can serve as a learning process as well. “Just, anything can happen,” Hayes said. “You just have to work through it, that’s all you can do. What happens happens. [If] it’s meant to be, it’s meant to be.”
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page 21 - royalnews - 4.8.2011
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page 22 - royalnews - 4.8.2011
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page 23 - royalnews - 4.8.2011
VCU Madness
Siblings keep the ball rolling
Graduate Tyeshia Govans (left) and her sister, sophomore Jahneshia Govans, pose for a picture on the track. Jahneshia was inspired to run track by her sister. Photo by Gabby Whittington.
Victor Bullock, Jahneshia Govans continue where their siblings left off
I
Kevin Harris trn writer
magine a tennis player walking onto the court, ready to compete. The player looks across to the other side and stares down their opposition. The competitor is a familiar face; in fact it is their own flesh and blood. Flashback two years, as then senior Jimmie Bullock smashes a serve down the line that is just out of the reach of his opponent. Now fast-forward to now as Bullock’s brother, senior Victor Bullock, shows off his tennis skills for the Royals. Victor is continuing a sibling legacy that started in 2005. Tennis is not the only spring sport that has a sibling legacy. The Govans sibling legacy is in track. Jahneshia Govans is the second Govans sibling to line-up on the blocks. She follows in the footsteps of her sister, 2010 graduate Tyeshia Govans.
The older sibling inspired both Victor and Jahneshia to play. However, for Victor, there was another factor in the mix. “It inspired me a little bit, the thing that most inspired me was getting cut from the soccer team in eighth grade, my brother was playing [tennis] so I already knew a little bit about it,” senior Victor Bullock said. “I always wanted to run since I always saw her when I was younger and I was like I want to run track when I get older,” sophomore Jahneshia Govans said. Being an inspiration for his younger brother gives Jimmie Bullock a good feeling. Tennis provides something that the Bullock brothers can bond with. “It makes me feel good because we share something that we can do together,” Jimmie Bullock said in a phone interview. There can be a natural competition between siblings, but that competition is magnified even more when it involves playing the same sport. “My brother and I play all the time now that I have gotten a lot better and we are just about even on some things,” Victor Bullock said. “I feel [Victor and I] are the best competition for each other, we push each other and help improve each others’
game,” Jimmie Bullock said. The feeling to compete with a sibling may be expected, but support for each other is another big thing. The Bullock brothers and Govans sisters root for each other and coach each other along. “Most of the time when [Jimmie] is there [at the matches] he is a big supporter,” Victor Bullock said. “[Tyeshia] comes to my track meets and helps me with my hurdles,” Jahneshia Govans said Siblings can push one other to play or run hard, and even though one might be better than the other, the competition brings out the best in both of them. “Last year [Tyeshia and I] had to run against each other in the 300 hurdles and I always wanted to get up there with her even though I knew that I could not beat her,” Jahneshia Govans said. Siblings can inspire each other and bring out the best in each other. Whether competing on a track or on a tennis court, siblings will give 110% to beat one another. In the end, despite a burning desire to beat their brother or sister, siblings can turn out to be each other’s biggest supporters.
M
ore than a week later, it is still hard to believe that the VCU Rams made it from
the First Four to the Final Four in the NCAA tournament. The Rams were not even expected to Wayne Epps, Jr. make the tournament at all. Teams like Colorado and Virginia Tech from major conferences seemed like better picks to fill out the tournament field. However, VCU listened to their doubters and used their words for motivation. Head coach Shaka Smart and the Rams decimated their opponents, beating every team except one by at least ten points. Plus, they did it against big schools from the major conferences. But, maybe more important than what the Rams did on the court, is what the impact of their run had and will have on so many people. With every win, it seemed like central Virginia became closer. The performance of VCU, and also that of the University of Richmond who made it to the Sweet Sixteen, brought a buzz to the area that is sure to last for a good while. People will always remember how well VCU and Richmond did. The city of Richmond became the only city other than Los Angeles to have two teams in the Sweet Sixteen since 1980. In addition, both VCU and Richmond locked down their coaches to long-term contract extensions. Richmond coach Chris Mooney was signed to a ten-year extension and VCU coach Smart to an eight-year extension. Richmond may very well become a basketball mecca for several years to come. VCU proved that anything is achievable. They were heavily doubted, but they believed in themselves and they got the job done in five tournament wins. They can serve as a great inspiration to all.
SPORTS WATCH
Baseball will face Brunswick in a home doubleheader on Sat., Apr. 9. The first game is scheduled for 11:00 a.m.
Girls tennis will play Appomattox Regional Governor’s School at home on Mon., Apr. 11 at 4:00 p.m.
Tennis, Softball, Baseball, and Boys soccer will all face Hopewell at home on Thurs., Apr. 14.
Scan this barcode with your smartphone to check out a slideshow of the Dodgeball Tournament .
Boys soccer team shuts out Meadowbrook
ABOVE: Soccer Coach Tom Harrison gives his team the line-up and assignments before the start of the game against Meadowbrook on Tues., Apr. 5. The Royals won 2-0. RIGHT: Freshman Cleo Lee works the ball to the sideline. From this position he tries to cross it to senior Patrick Ward.
TOP: Junior Logan Browning pushes the ball up the field, as junior Chris Beaudet makes an overlap to get open for a shot on goal. ABOVE: Senior Patrick Ward attempts to win the ball from two Meadowbrook midfielders, in order to send a long ball to senior Garrett Albright. All photos by Wayne Epps, Jr.