November 2014

Prince George H.S. - 7801 Laurel Spring Rd. Prince George, VA 23875- www.trnwired.org - November 14, 2014

Volume XIII ISSUE 2

Free Single Issue Copy Only

trn The Royal News

Intellectual Freedom Under Attack p.7 p. 12-13 Rowanty Firefighter Saves Lives p. 17 Community Shares Holiday Favorites

p. 24 Cheerleaders win district competition

Senior Izaak Spiers recreates the cover of the infamous banned book All Quiet on the Western Front by Erich Maria Remarque. The list of banned books increases everyday.

Photo by Devan Fishburne.

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

2 | THE ROYAL NEWS | FRIDAY 11.14.14

op/ed

Education Is Pivotal In A Growing Modern Society

theRoyalNews

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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 A4, 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: Devan Fishburne-Op/Ed: Reeve Ashcraft-News: Hyedia Nutt-Features: Ebony Gilchrist and Angelica MartinezDoubletruck: Qadirah Monroe-A&E : April Buckles-Sports: Ryan Albright and Madison Strang-Photo Editor/Distribution and Events: Debra Thomas-Business & Ad Editor: Daniel PuryearOnline Editor-in-Chief: Travis Temple-Special Edition Editor-InChief Sarah Daniel

Writers Alesondra Adams-Paul Dennis-Tyneshia Griffin-Brooke Guerrero-Rosemarie Hopkins-Cassie Kolbo-Corey LeeMatteo Reed-Chance Thweatt-Tyrah Washington-Tiana Whaley

Editor-in-Chief Lindsay Pugh

Managing Editor Devan Fishburne

Business Manager Daniel Puryear

Adviser

Chris Waugaman

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

The Royal News, PGHS trnwired.org & trnsports.org

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

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Illustration by Qadirah Monroe.

Thanksgiving Season Shows Increased Commercialization

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hanksgiving is meant to be a day of reflection and repose, and genuine gratitude for more than the material items in one’s life. Black Friday has been an important shopping event for years, but the recent expansion of Thanksgiving as a shopping day directly contradicts the meaning of the holiday.

Black Friday festivities initially began at 6:00 A.M. on the day after Thanksgiving.

Over the years, opening times gradually moved up to earlier hours of the morning. In recent years, Wal-Mart and other major retailers have begun Black Friday sales at 8:00 P.M. Thanksgiving night. Mere hours after expressing their gratitude for the blessings in their lives, shoppers scramble to attain more material possessions. Last year, shopping traffic on Thanksgiving Day increased 20% from Thanksgiving Day in 2012, encompassing over 92 million shoppers. 25% of shoppers arrived at a retail store by 8:00 P.M. and 37.3% arrived before 12:00 A.M. The

total purchases on Thanksgiving increased 23.7% from 2012 to 2013.

Black Friday has become an extreme event that can lead to extreme violence, including assault and battery, stampedes that can cause injury and death, and sometimesfatal shootings. Working on Black Friday can be nightmarish for employees who must face rushing and sometimes violent shoppers, and expanding the event to include Thanksgiving night adds to that fear while preventing workers from spending their already limited time with their families.

The focal point of Thanksgiving should be on celebrating time with loved ones and being thankful. Thanksgiving’s growing role as the kick-off the Christmas shopping season detracts from the message of the holiday. “Blue laws” are present in some states and prohibit retail sales on federal holidays, which limit Black Friday opening sales to beginning at midnight. These laws should be more prevalent among the states to protect workers and the meaning of Thanksgiving.

ducation in a modern society is hands down the most essential tool we have in regards to fightReeve Ashcraft ing poverty, crime, and overall ignorance.

America, a country that is as diverse as the people living here, has fallen flat when it comes to educating and leading our youth. Our education system is broken, stale, and in my opinion obsolete.

When kids are first old enough to start school, we send them off to learn the alphabet, reading, writing, etc. and we teach them that school and learning together is enjoyable. So, with that being said, why is it that kids lose that exact same enthusiasm as they progress through the system?

One reason, among many, is that many teachers lose their “spunk” to teach, and for good reason. Teachers are so held back by strict curriculums and the stress of meeting test quotas, that they forget their true reason they wanted to be a teacher. So I ask that the state board of education loosen their grip on teachers and let them put those degrees in action.

The next but far from last reason is a lack of leadership when it comes to budgeting and how the money is being spent. Don’t think for a second that there isn’t enough money to pay teachers better, because there is, but it gets spent on unessential items and teachers end up leaving their dream profession for a better job. What child gets excited to learn when they feel like they aren’t even worth doors and locks on bathroom stalls? With that, I challenge our board of education officials to use their minds when it comes to spending taxpayer dollars and give our teachers a raise and our schools a makeover.

Lastly, education is simply beautiful and is the key to giving our nation a fighting voice again. We must never forget that with knowledge comes power, and with such power comes opportunity at a better life for all. .

FRIDAY 11.14.14 | THE ROYAL NEWS | 3

op/ed

Is Facial Hair The New Norm In Society?

As “No-Shave November” is in full swing, the continuous debate surfaces on whether or not men are better looking with facial hair. Other questions rise such as which styles are the best, does this apply to only certain types of men, and is a clean shave better in some cases?

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s November has arrived, many males will and are participating in “No Shave November,” meaning they will not shave for the entire month of November to raise awareness for men’s health issues, such as prostate cancer and other men’s cancers. During this month, men will grow beards, mustaches, and other styles of facial hair.

A study done by the University of New South Wales in Australia, revealed that “women rated men with heavy stubble as significantly more desirable than those with bare faces, light stubble or full beards.”

Men with clean and groomed facial hair are significantly more attractive to women than men with clean-shaven faces. This idea may be due to the impression facial hair gives of maturity, dominance, masculinity, and strength. Many women see facial hair as an indication of a working man or a family man, which, for women, are both extremely attractive qualities in men.

Researchers of the Evolution & Ecology Research Centre at the University of New South Wales found that the “10-day scruff” is the most attractive stage of facial hair. In other words, women prefer a median, instead of no hair or a full-grown beard. Furthermore, the styles of facial hair that men choose vary greatly. The most popular styles include the following: the “five o’clock shadow,” the “short beard,” a “Jesus beard,” the “goatee,” the “handlebar mustache,” the “Imperial mustache,” the “English mustache,” and many others, the most attractive being the “five o’clock shadow.”

In addition to the obvious attractiveness of facial hair, women also find men that are willing to support a certain cause as desirable.

Men with facial hair are obviously, according to the various studies done, more attractive to the majority of women and men. These men with facial hair, especially the “five o’clock shadow” or “10-day scruff”, will find themselves as more eligible bachelors than men with clean-shaven faces.

PRO CON Sarah Daniel

Rosemarie Hopkins

“Men without beards appear more sociable, healthy, and clean.” “...Women see facial hair as an indication of a working man or a family man...”

“People without facial hair are associated with jobs like being a lawyer...”

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beard is a common look for men, but it might not be worth it. Some people prefer a clean shave to a beard, but there is more to it than that. It all depends on what image the person is trying to maintain and how much work they are willing to do.

As stated by the Independent, facial hair is constantly coming in and out of style. Scientists are speculating that beards may have reached the peak of their popularity. The more beards a person sees, the less they enjoy them.

An article in the Art of Manliness states that studies have shown that beards make men look more aggressive. Men with beards look older, more mature, and less approachable. Men without beards appear more sociable, healthy, and clean.

In the opinion of the Art of Manliness, having a beard might even affect your attitude. One study showed that men with beards have a different perception of themselves. They acted more aggressive than the people without beards. If someone has an anger problem, they might want to shave.

The Art of Manliness also showed that men with beards may be less likely to be hired for a job, because they look like they do not work well with others. People without facial hair are associated with jobs like being a lawyer, doctor, or politician. People with facial hair are associated with jobs like artist or teacher.

According to Telegraph, beards are a lot to care for. If you choose to wear a beard, you need to maintain it constantly. An untrimmed beard ends up looking messy, but not in the good way.

Getting food in your beard can be embarrassing.

So, it is important to watch style changes. People need to think about what image they want for themselves and what job they want. They would have to consider how much time they can devote to their look. Having a beard is not as great as it seems.

Illustration by Qadirah Monroe.

4 | THE ROYAL NEWS | FRIDAY 11.14.14

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FRIDAY 11.14.14 | THE ROYAL NEWS | 5

Briefly

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There will be representatives from the following colleges visiting PGHS. Any senior interested in meeting with any of these representatives should sign up in guidance prior to the scheduled visit.

4 Nov. 20th- Longwood University @ 10:30 a.m.

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AMERICA

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P A R T Y

N O T E S

G O B B L E

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Thanksgiving Break will start on Wed., Nov. 26th will start and run through Fri., Nov. 28th.

This day started during the Reformation period. It is accompanied by prayers and special ceremonies and feasts.

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The Mousetrap will start Thurs., Dec. 4th at 7:30 p.m. and the last day to see this production will be Sat., Dec. 6th at 7:30 p.m.

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The Junior Celebration will be held Sat., Nov. 15th at 7 p.m. in the commons.

The dance is for juniors only. There will be various activities planned for this night. There will also be a ceremony where the junior class will be presented their class ring.

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Seniors, there will be an Education Fair, featuring many college and career opportunities, at the Regimental Club on Fort Lee Nov. 18th at 10 a.m. -2 p.m. Provide your own transportation and have a parent provide a note giving permission to attend to Ms. Ceney by Fri., Nov. 14th.

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Veteran’s Day is celebrated on Nov. 11th. At this particular time of the year many people honor and give thanks to all the men and women who have served and who are serving in the US Armed Forces.

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6 | THE ROYAL NEWS | FRIDAY 11.14.14

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FRIDAY 11.14.14 | THE ROYAL NEWS | 7

Features

Intellectual Freedom Under Attack Students, Faculty Celebrate Their Favorite Debated Books.

Tyneshia Griffin trn writer

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pening a book and enjoying the story that an author has to tell is an experience that has sometimes been considered law-breaking. In communities across America, books have been ripped from shelves and considered banned. In response to the limits set on intellectual freedom, students have fought back by celebrating Banned Books Week from September 21st to the 27 th.

For English and speech teacher Lisa Britt, the banned book To Kill a Mockingbird,

by Harper Lee, is her favorite unit to teach to students.

“To Kill a Mockingbird has influenced my whole life,” Britt said. “It has influenced me to always consider the views of other people.”

One of Britt’s favorite quotes, stated by the character Atticus Finch, reads, “You will always get along with all kind of fools.

You never really know a person until you consider things from his point of view.”

The undeniable influence of literature on students is a key reason why Britt and readers alike believe banning books is just the same as putting a veil over the important moments in history and the lessons that they teach youth.

“Literature is about life, the good, the bad, and the ugly,” Britt said. “If we keep real literature about our world boxed up or shut away from students, we have lost sight of the whole point of education. Literature is about life.”

Award winning book series, such as The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins and the Harry Potter series by J. K. Rowling, were also listed on the Banned Books List.

Spells, wizards, and unrealistic fantasy are

BY THE NUMBERS

1982

The year that Banned Books Week was created

5,099

The number of book challenges reported between the years 2000-2009

motifs of literature that communities may find contradictory to religious viewpoints.

Book banners may find these novels full of unorthodox practices and ideas, but senior Izaak Spiers discovered the true message between all the magic and mild fictional fighting within these literary works.

“If these books are banned, you can’t learn from the morals they teach,” Spiers said.

The banned Harry Potter books by J. K. Rowling is a series that Spiers believes demonstrates the significance of tolerating the differences amongst other people and ideas that surround our society.

“In the banned book Harry Potter, the story is good, the message talks about putting aside differences so that you can work with other people,” Spiers said. “Plus, I really like magic.”

There are many students just like Spiers who read not only for the interesting elements in literature, such as the equivocal power of magic in the banned book Harry Potter, but also read to be inspired by the author’s intended message expressed throughout the story.

Librarians have been at the forefront of

Librarian Allison Heath reads To Kill A Mockingbird, which appears on the Top 10 Banned Books List. Heath has opposed censorship in her role as a librarian and hopes to bring more awareness to the censorship of literature.

Photo by Tyneshia Griffin. the Banned Books Movement, offering their support of intellectual freedom and sharing their opinions in regards to the importance of this monumental movement.

The celebration of intellectual freedom is one of the most essential parts of Banned Books Week. Librarian Allison Heath, as an avid reader, is an advocate for this right.

Though America is a nation based on liberty, book banners have put barriers around intellectual freedom. Banned Books Week gives an opportunity to break these barriers and demonstrate why American literature has positively affected readers for generations.

“You should have the freedom to read whatever you choose,” Heath said. “Just because a book offends you, doesn’t mean everyone shouldn’t read it.”

11,300

The number that have been challenged since 1982, according to the American Library Association

80

The percentage of book challenges that the American Library Association estimates have never been reported Numbers taken from www.ala.org/books/ frequentlychallengedbooks/top10 and www. bannedbooksweek.org/about

8 | THE ROYAL NEWS | FRIDAY 11.14.14

Features Czech Culture Embraced Community Showcase Czech-Slovak Heritage with Annual Festival.

Cassie Kolbo trn writer

BN CDR: C/LTC Justin Austin Assist. Army Instructor: C/CPT Trevor Brunson

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thousand people w e r e g a t h e ring together to celebrate at the heritage center.

As they toured they saw antique farm equipment, lively bands playing folk concerts, and enjoyed the taste of traditional foods all while children ran and laughed as they played games.

Last month, on October 11th the Prince George County Regional Heritage Center held its second annual Virginia Czech & Slovak Folklife Festival.

Out of the hundreds present on that day, some were volunteers, some just curious folk, and other were there to connect themselves to the olden roots of their ancestors.

English twelve teacher Beth Andersen is of Czech descent, and her family was involved with the Czech Slovak festival.

“I certainly think that there is a large Czechoslovakian community in the county and together it gives us a common bond growing up here,” Andersen said.

During the late nineteenth century, after the Civil War, more than 700 Czech and Slovak families came to live in Virginia. A large number of them settled in the counties of Prince George, Dinwiddie, and Chesterfield. Many came for land and work, while others just sought a better life.

“My great-great grandfather first came here for a job. A few years later, he sent for his family,” sophomore Breanna Rackley said.

With a vast number of families centered in local counties, their history is ever-present. Each one of these families that has emigrated to America has brought their own traditions.

“America is the melting pot of all cultures after all,” History teacher Thaddeus Sebera said. “At our family reunions, we

PGHS JROTC 2014-2015 Command and Staff Positions

BN EXEC OFF: C/MAJ Dominique Gaines BN CMD SGT MAJ: C/CSM Cydnei Figures-Mormon Personnel Officer: C/1LT Sierra Tyler Security Officer: C/1LT Ryan Snover Operations Officer: C/CPT Tyra Anderson always hire a polka band.”

All of the Czech and Slovak history based in Prince George and its surrounding areas has been a major player in shaping its present day community.

“The festival is a powerful way of educating the community about its roots,” Andersen said.

Undoubtedly, the festival has left an impression on local and surrounding areas.

“The older generations that come are aware of the history here,” Sebera said.

“Growing up in this community is a unique experience because we know how to polka from five years old, and know what a Kolache is.”

The area’s historically Czech and Slovak churches sold traditional foods at the festival.

“There was a Folk concert with unique instruments, dancing and food,” said Andersen.

There was also an exhibit featuring antique, hand sewn, and beaded Folk costumes.

“Last year the festival was so large, but this year the spacing worked out so

Traditional Czech -Slovak clothing is displayed at the Prince George County Regional Heritage Center. Many Czech immigrants moved to Prince George in the late 19th. Photo by Cassie Kolbo. well,” Sebera said. “There were very few issues, everything ran smoothly.”

The previous year’s festival hosted more than 1,500 visitors. This year’s turnout is estimated between 800 and 1,000 people.

Festivals like these draw many people and allow them to connect with the past as the world changes around them.

“In the Czech Republic I went to Prague. The culture there now is completely different from anything my ancestors would have faced,” Sebera said.

The modern world has changed vastly as nations influence each other with ideas, traditions, and sharing of their culture.

“American culture is a greater assimilation of other cultures, and Czechoslovakian culture is just one aspect of that,” Andersen said.

Logistics Officer: C/1LT Sidney Ingram Public Affairs OFF: C/1LT Alyissa Gimenez Web Design Off: C/1LT Henry Fisher Company Commanders: A Company: C/1LT Haley Parker B Company: C/1LT Jermiah Paul C Company: C/1LT Andres Ruiz-Luna D Company: C/1LT De’shawn Maynard E Company: C/1LT Markia Smith HQ Commandant: C/1LT D’Angelo Luna

FRIDAY 11.14.14 | THE ROYAL NEWS | 9

Features

Military Holiday Affects Student Life

Members Of Families In Armed Forces Reflect On Veteran’s Day Students, Faculty Reflect on Meaning of Veteran’s Day

Tiana Whaley trn writer

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reated by Woodrow Wilson, Armistice Day was originally a day to honor the veterans of World War I. However, following World War II and the Korean War, Congress later amended the act, changing the word “Armistice” to “Veterans.” On June 1, 1954, November 11 became a day to honor all veterans.

De’Shawn Maynard is a senior who is in the JROTC. Maynard has been in the JROTC since he was a sophomore, and is debating going into college ROTC to go into the armed forces as an officer.

“I feel like [serving in the military] is very honorable, and I feel like it’s something not everyone can do. I feel like not enough people respect what people in the military do,” Maynard said.

People who are in the military have to go through things that the average person does not have to. Service members are stationed around the world, and sometimes deployed to combat zones. About 2.5 million service members have been deployed to a war zone and returned since 2001. Almost half of these service members have been deployed more than once. Almost 700,000 veterans have an officially recognized disability as a result of the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan.

People who are in the military are also at a higher risk of

having Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder.

Veterans’ Day is a day to honor these men and women who risk their lives for this country. It is also used as a day to remember those who lost their lives to protect the country.

This day is observed in many different ways. The day used to be filled with parades to honor the veterans, however, now things are different. People have different opinions on Veteran’s Day, and therefore they celebrate the holiday in a variety of ways.

“I feel like [Veterans’ Day] is one of the most important holidays, [and] people don’t really acknowledge [it] enough.

It’s really important to me, [in the past] I’ve done Color Guard for [Veterans’ Day] in JROTC,” Maynard said.

Not everyone is off for Veterans’ Day. Students enjoy a day off, but teachers have to come to school for a workday.

JROTC Lieutenant Colonel Chandler is also required to come to the school on this holiday.

“Normally, I’m at school like any other teacher. Veterans’ Day is somewhat special because it is a time to reflect on other veterans and those who have passed. I grew up around World War II veterans. You were always around someone who had served,” Chandler said.

Service members risk their lives when they are deployed to protect their country. These veterans come back in a variety of conditions. Some come back unharmed, others with injuries, and some do not come back at all. It is estimated that about 1.8 million Purple Hearts have been awarded to wounded soldiers since the award’s creation in 1932. 6,802 American soldiers were killed in action from the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan as of April 2014.

JROTC Lieutenant Colonel Chandler salutes in front of the American flag. Chandler served 22 years in the military. Photo by Tiana Whaley.

The men and women in the armed forces continually risk their lives to keep America safe. Veteran’s Day is a day for people to honor these people’s sacrifices and thank them for what they do for their country. It is a day to remember those who died protecting the United States. Service members sacrifice more than others realize, putting their personal lives aside to serve their country. They have to move around the world, sometimes without their loved ones.

Brandon Evans is a junior that lives on Fort Lee. Evans’ father has been in the Army for fifteen years. “[My dad] was deployed to Iraq when I was in the fourth grade [to the time I was in the] fifth grade. I have had to move eight times because of the military,” Evans said.

Children of service members also must make sacrifices when their parents are stationed in different places, and the child must leave people behind in order to remain with their parents. Sometimes these children have to stay behind when their parents are stationed in places that they cannot go to.

“I think today people appreciate those who are on active duty and veterans, but for the most part I don’t think people realize how much veterans sacrifice for the country and [in] their family life,” Chandler said.

10 | THE ROYAL NEWS | FRIDAY 11.14.14

Contact Us:

FRIDAY 11.14.14 | THE ROYAL NEWS | 11

2014-2015

2, 2014 2, 2014

12 | THE ROYAL NEWS | FRIDAY 11.14.14

Rowanty Firefighter Sa Senior Kelly Smith Receives Local Honor for Heroic Act Corey Lee trn writer

K

elly Smith races down the road in an ambulance with the sirens and flashing lights filling the air.

As a high school senior, Smith must put behind her all the concerns of grades and college to focus on her training and put the life of another in her hands.

Smith, a firefighter and medic for Prince George Fire and EMS, was awarded the CPR Life Save Award at the annual Fire and EMS award ceremony. The ceremony is held every October at the High School.

She was awarded for the actions she took on July 21 to resuscitate someone who was suffering from cardiac arrest. Smith was awarded on October 13 along with many of Prince George’s finest heroes ranging from young adults to 50 year veterans.

“It was a really happy moment to be recognized for all my hard work and all that I’ve done,” Smith said.

Smith earned the title of firefighter through the Firefighting and EMT class offered at Rowanty Tech-

nical Center last school year. The class sic firefighting skills to include many d skills such as CPR, or cardiopulmonar Firefighting is a two-semester course Firefighter 1 and Firefighter 2. According to Rowantytech.com, these are state and national certification courses taught nationwide to entry-level firefighters following career firefighter academy guidelines and military style structure. Through this training, she wa what she learned to a real situation and “I ride with the medics in Prince said. “I don’t have the training to be an E Firefighters are often required to al Emergency Medical Technicians. The took the actions that resulted in her reward, she was riding on ambulance Medic 5-1 out of Jefferson Park Volunteer Fire Department where she is a volunteer.

“When the call came in my mind was racing,” Smith said.

“ cam

Senior Kelly Smith received the CPR Life Save Award for successfully resuscitating a cardiac arrest patient while out on an EMS call.

Photos contributed by Kelly Smith.

FRIDAY 11.14.14 | THE ROYAL NEWS | 13

aves Life

BY THE NUMBERS

While Out Working During Emergency Call.

s taught her badifferent first aid ry resuscitation. e consisting of

“All the different possibilities and worst case scenarios where running through my mind.”

Smith and her crew arrived on scene to find a 21 year old male suffering from a cardiac arrest, which is when the heart has stopped beating and moving blood throughout the body. What caused the condition in the patient is unknown. Smith’s training came to her and she immediately began performing chest compressions and assisted in breathing for the patient.

“When I first arrived my mind was scattered, but then my training kicked in and I knew what to do,” Smith said.

Smith was required to administer CPR to the patient for up to 20 minutes, a very exhausting task, while the paramedics began giving medicine and started oth-

“When the call me in, my mind was racing...”

e discipline and as able to apply d save a life.

George,” Smith EMT though.” lso play the role day that Smith

er treatments for the patient.

“It was very tiring,” Smith said. “I had sweat running down my face.”

Through their hard work and valiant efforts, Smith and the crew of Medic 5-1 were able to bring back the heartbeat of the patient and transported him safely to the hospital where further treatment to preserve his life was administered.

“It was reassuring that my training didn’t fail me,” Smith said “It was a very rewarding feeling.”

Jefferson Park Volunteer Fire Department and the Crew of Medic 5-1, whom she rode with that day, have nothing but pride and honor for their new firefighter and the actions that she took to save the life of a citizen in the community. Smith plans to continue with emergency medicine in her future career.

“I plan to attend VCU to get a four year nursing degree and become a flight nurse,” Smith said. “This [event] has encouraged me to continue with my goals

2% Just 2% of women in the United States’ labor force are full time career firefighters.

1974 Judith “Judy” Brewer, of Arlington County, VA, became the United State’s first female career firefighter.

3.4 The percentage of women that make up the nation’s fire fighters.

200 Women have participated in the field of firefighting for almost 200 years. Molly Williams, a slave from New York, became the 1st female volunteer firefighter in 1815.

6,500 Over 6,500 women currently hold careers in firefighting and fire officer positions in the United States.

Sources: PBS.org, iWOMEN.org, and npr.org

14 | THE ROYAL NEWS | FRIDAY 11.14.14

Join Me in Prince George.

Jenni Honn Jennifer Flowers Honn Agency (804) 732-8811 honnj1@nationwide.com

Prince George Fire & EMS During this time of Thanksgiving, join us in giving THANKS to the men and women who unselfishly serve as volunteer fire fighters and

emergency medical technicians in our County.

Volunteer – Join Our Team fireems@princegeorgecountyva.gov (804) 722-8614

FRIDAY 11.14.14 | THE ROYAL NEWS | 15

A&e

PG Players Present Mousetrap Players Take On New Genre, Act Out Different Personalities

Alexis Stewart Distribution Editor

S

enior Christina Howe steps out of the right wing of the stage, ready to assume her first lead role as Mollie Ralston. Excitement and nervousness rushes through her mind as she recites her lines one last time.

A cathedral radio plays in the background, and a voice announces a murder has taken place only a short distance away. In only a few moments, the audience will be drawn into the constant twists and turns of the PG Players’ winter production, The Mousetrap.

The Mousetrap, written by Agatha Christie, first came to stage in 1952. The characters in the murder mystery include husband and wife Mollie and Giles Ralston, Mrs. Boyle, Christopher Wren, Major Metcalf, Miss Casewell, Mr. Paravinci, and Detective Sergeant Trotter. The guests spend the night at the Great Hall of Monkswell Manor and use clues that point to one of the guests as the murderer. The play was originally performed

as a radio program under the title “Three Blind Mice,” and premiered in its current format at London’s Ambassadors Theatre on November 25, 1952.

Darryl Philips, theatre teacher and director of the play, chose the play because he believes the entire play will captivate the audience’s attention.

“Because it is a murder mystery, it is suspenseful from the beginning throughout the experience of the whole play,” Phillips said.

What makes this play different than all the others is that the Players will be acting out a new genre: mystery.

“I picked this play because I wanted to do a classic. It is the longest running play in theatre history,” Phillips said. “And we have never done a murder mystery.”

Apart from the usual stresses involved in the production of a play, like having the proper costumes, memorizing lines, and blocking, Junior Lexi Korkos, who plays the role of Detective Sergeant Trotter, cites that “the most challenging part [of the play] is the accents.”

The Players also have to represent their characters with different personalities than they are used to. Sophomore Kendall Tison, who plays Mrs. Boyle, finds that the most dif-

ficult part of the production is the role that she plays.

“I don’t like being rude to people. It shows a side of me I don’t like to show,” Tison said.

In contrast, Howe enjoys portraying the personality of her character.

“She is really innocent and wants the best for everyone and the hotel,” Howe said.

With less than one month until opening night, the entire cast is focusing on the details they need to improve. Howe is working on finessing her characterization of Mollie Ralston.

“It’s hard for me to do the longer scenes right now because I’m focusing more on my lines than my movement. I’m getting better now, but in the beginning I just had to stop and take a million notes on placement. When we run through it again I’m more confident as to where I stand and I know what I’m doing,” Howe said. “It helps that our director is extremely reassuring. He encourages us to make choices in this play that we think are right and to see where it takes us.”

The play is being performed almost in its original format, with some small changes.

The original play involves 8 characters, while the Players’ production involves 9 characters.

The role of the “voice on the radio” has been

Senior Christina Howe rehearses her lines during practice. Howe plays the role of Mollie Ralston. The Mousetrap will premiere Dec. 4 at PGHS. Photo by April Buckles. added to the cast list. The role of Trotter, played

by Korkos, has been traditionally assumed by a male, but the Players are using a female.

The audience is traditionally asked to keep the twist ending of the play a secret after leaving the theatre.

“The audience is always guessing the entire play. By the end of Act 1, you meet all the characters, and one character will die by end of Act 1. By Act 2 everybody is a suspect and by the end you will find who has done it,” Phillips said.

The Mousetrap will open at Prince George High School on Thursday, December 4 and run through Saturday, December 6.

“I’m really excited for the audience to see something serious. We have really nice dynamics with each other and our back and forth lines set people on edge,” Howe said. “It’s nice to do a play people will be thoroughly perplexed by.”

16 | THE ROYAL NEWS | FRIDAY 11.14.14

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Serving Virginia for 70 Years Richmond Tri-Cities

FRIDAY 11.14.14 | THE ROYAL NEWS | 17

A&e

Sharing Holiday Dinner Favorites

Taylor Fletcher

Community Members Share Homemade Recipes Chance Thweatt trn writer

A

s the holiday season lurks around the corner, the thought of devouring and savoring the taste of many foods and desserts leads to excitement and anticipation. Many of the foods that our community eats today date back to the early 1600s, with the pilgrims of the Plymouth Colony.

The Plymouth Colonists typically ate wild turkeys, stuffing, ham, and cranberries. In addition, the colonists also had a variety of dried and fresh vegetables to accommodate their meals. The colonists also paved the way for many desserts that our community eats today including pumpkin pie.

“My favorite holiday food is stuffing mixed with sausage”, said Moore Middle School Teacher, Veronica Harper.

Stuffing mixed with sausage is a food which has pork sausage, mushrooms, celery, and onions. This dish is eaten all throughout the holiday season.

Sausage stuffing requires one pound of sweet Italian sausage. It also requires three cups of onions (chopped) and two cups of celery. Parsley and Croutons, and all spice is required.

“Pumpkin Pie is my favorite holiday dessert”, said Physical Therapist Aid Braylon Jackson.

Pumpkin pie is a very significant dish, due to the fact that pilgrims were the first to partake during the holiday season. Pumpkin pie is a dessert in

which people in the community add their own customs and traditions to give it a sensational taste. According to standard recipes, it requires one cup of sugar, one and a half teaspoon of ground cinnamon, one teaspoon of ground cloves, one teaspoon of ground allspice, one and a half teaspoon of ground ginger, one and a half teaspoon of vanilla extract, four large eggs, three cups of pumpkin glop, and one and a half cans of evaporated milk.

“I love sweet potato pie”, said sophomore Isabel Robinson.

Sweet potato pie is also a very popular dessert during the holiday season. Many people add their own traditions and customs to the recipe, just as pumpkin pie, According to the standard recipe, sweet potato pie requires one pound of sweet potato, one and a half cup of butter, one cup of white sugar, one half cup of milk, two eggs, one half teaspoon ground nutmeg, and one half teaspoon ground cinnamon, and one teaspoon of vanilla extract, and one unbaked pie crust.

“My favorite foods for the holiday season are yams, greens, , turkey, fried chicken, macaroni and cheese, gingerbread cookies, and apple pie”, said Enterprise Sales Associate Caron Charlotte.

These eight foods are also very popular during the holiday season.

Yams are made from potatoes, covered with brown sugar and butter.

Greens are boiled in a pot with three quarts of boiling water, and smoked meat. Turkey is a recipe, in which it can be roasted, baked, or deep fried to personal liking or preference. Fried chicken is a food that is rolled in chicken breader, and then fried in a pan to your preference. Macaroni and cheese is a recipe which requires elbow macaroni

noodles, sharp cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, milk, flour, butter, and paprika. Gingerbread cookies requires beat butter, salt, ginger, cinnamon, and cloves, vanilla, molasses, and lemon zest. Apple pie requires peeled apples, sugar, flour, cinnamon, salt, nutmeg, and lemon juice.

“My favorite holiday food is ham”, said Virginia State University Student Taylor Fletcher.

Ham is a food that was eaten by the colonists during their holiday meals and feasts. The pilgrims would hunt the day before a big holiday feast in hopes of being successful. In more depth, ham was a very important meal to the colonists, it was considered to be the second most important food next to turkey Ham is a meal that requires two or three hours in a oven, then it is bronzed with brown sugar.

As young adults, few take the time to realize and appreciate the history that is behind certain foods that we eat during the holiday season. It is vital that individuals are thankful for the people that have came before us and have paved the way. Although the holiday season is approaching, as students we must remember to carry ourselves with gratitude and to remain humble.

Top Right: A ham, cooked by Taylor Fletcher, is displayed. Ham is a food that was eaten by the colonists during their holiday meals and feasts.

Bottom Right: A pumpkin pie, baked by Braylon Jackson, is presented. People often add their own ingredients to pumpkin pie to give it an unique taste.

Photos by Chance Thweatt.

Braylon Jackson

18 | THE ROYAL NEWS | FRIDAY 11.14.14

A&E Gamer's Corner

as they see fit. Customization options abound, as individual weapons can be modified to suit specific needs, with more powerful augmentations becoming available as the player progresses through the story.

The most innovative of Mordor’s features is its ingenious handling of failure and death.

Falling in battle has lasting ramifications, as the victor gets promoted in Sauron’s Army, making them a more powerful enemy in the future. If a particular foe causes repeated trouble, they can become a nemesis, which makes them drop even greater rewards when defeated. Similarly, player conquests are permanent, meaning enemy captains and warlords never return once vanquished.

From a presentation standpoint, Shadow of Mordor pulls out all the stops. The entire experience is a technical masterpiece with unmatched visuals, and protagonist Talion is particularly impressive. Granular details like sweat, dirt, and grime are all visible on his grizzled visage, making him seem incredibly realistic. Other presentational aspects such as sound design are all equally detailed and realized.

Middle-Earth: Shadow of Mordor breathes new life into a stale intellectual property. Its uniqueness, a very refreshing trait in the gaming industry, is blended splendidly with established concepts to craft what is easily the best Lord of the Rings game ever made.

Lord of the Rings franchise expands its grip on gaming world

W

ith a long history of video games ranging from decent to absolutely awful, the Lord of the Rings franchise is held with less than high regard in the gaming community, which is why Middle-Earth: Shadow of Mordor largely flew under the radar. Surprisingly, Shadow of Mordor breaks the mold to create one of the most engaging experiences of the entire year.

Shadow of Mordor’s greatest strength lies in its crisp and admittedly addicting combat system. Fighting the forces of Sauron is a simple affair at a basic level, but the option to add complexity at whatever level the player is comfortable with adds depth and accessibility.

This emphasis on player choice permeates the vast majority of the experience. Most situations can be approached in a myriad of ways, but there are usually added benefits for completing the objective in the “ideal” way. And aside from the storyline, there are a number of side activities that give the player freedom to work at their own pace and do things

Travis Temple

9.5/10

Photo courtesy of gameinformer.com.

FRIDAY 11.14.14 | THE ROYAL NEWS | 19

Fall sports

Senior Spotlight

Rivalry Intensifies Between Classes

Jocelyn Perkins

Girls Volleyball

Senior , Junior Classes Compete for Powderpuff Title Now senior JoJo Taylor carries the ball into the end zone, with the help of her junior athletes. The Powderpuff game will be November 24th at PGHS. Photo by April Buckles.

Matteo Reed trn writer

T

wo and a half minutes left on the clock,and the juniors have possession of the ball. Seniors make a desperate grab for the ball and wrench it away for a single touchdown. It may sound like a normal football game, but the players are all female, and the voices cheering from the sidelines are all male.

Powderpuff is an annual event where the females from the junior class and senior class battle to see who is the most dominate class on the football field, while their male counterparts cheer the squad on. Admission is $3 or $1 and two canned goods and all proceeds go back to a local food bank.

“I played powderpuff last year and I really enjoyed it because we won last year. It’s my senior year, so I would like to play and win again,” senior Sarah Stech said. “Tension between juniors and seniors is strong because they beat us in different competitions like spirit stick but the competition will give both teams the will to win.”

One of the most memorable parts of the powderpuff game is the boys switching

roles with the girls.

“I think it is going to be different for me because the girls are going to be on the field while the guys and I cheer them on,” junior Jason Rodriguez said.

Senior Jerron Ramsey is looking forward to his position on the senior powderpuff cheer squad.

“I think it’s going to be a good rivalry because we always go at it during the pep rallies,” senior Jerron Ramsey said. “It’s different because some of the guys will be acting silly.”

The team has been decided and the girls and guys involved have been notified that they were selected.

When it comes to school participation, powderpuff is one of the year’s biggest events. Most of the students surveyed said they would like to participate in future powderpuff games.

The competition between the classes is already beginning to emerge.

“I think the seniors are going to win, because we slaughtered the class of 2014.

The score was 33-8,” senior Virginia Kendall said. “A lot of juniors think they’re better than us and we think we’re better than the juniors.”

Some students have been following powderpuff since middle school and others attend it just to just to see the girls battle on

the field.

“I’ve gone to powderpuff games since I was in eighth grade and it looked really fun,” senior Alyssa Jordan said. “There’s a lot of tension because the juniors always want to beat the seniors at everything.”

Jordan, as a cheerleader during the regular football season, enjoys seeing the role reversal during powderpuff.

“I think it’s kind of fun, just to see the girls being us and us being them,” Jordan said.

Live Coverage TRNWIRED.org and PGTV News will both be providing live coverage of the Powderpuff game.

The game will be Monday, November 24th at 3:30 PM at PGHS football field.

Admission is $3 or $1 and two canned goods.

How long have you played volleyball?

“Like eight years, [since] I was ten years old.”

Do you plan on playing volleyball in college?

“I want to play volleyball for North Carolina Central University or North Carolina A&T.” What is the best memory you have while being on the team?

“Winning against Matoaca. We lost the first two sets and won the last three.

The match meant a lot because we went over the hump.”

How do you feel about it being your last year playing volleyball for Prince George?

“I am actually pretty sad. I injured my leg once again, in my last year at that, it bothered me because it makes me feel like I might not be ready for college.”

What will you miss the most?

“My team, the players; especially Erica.”

What’s your favorite part of volleyball?

“The adrenaline of spiking, excitement of playing with our team and our success, and working together.”

20 | THE ROYAL NEWS | FRIDAY 11.14.14

ph tOGallery Lady Royals End Their Season 15-1

LEFT: Junior Amanda Belcher runs up the field against the Colonial Heights Colonials on Oct 20. This was Belcher’s first year playing on varsity team.

Next year Belcher plans to be one of the teams’ captains.

Photo by Travis Temple.

BELOW: Freshman Amanda Grebas steals the ball from the Thomas Dale Knights on Oct 13. The Lady Royals won the game against the Knights with a score of 2-0. They then continued their impressive season with victories over Lee Davis, Colonial Heights, and Matoaca, before ending their season at the Conference Tournament.

Photo by Tiana Whaley.

ABOVE: Sophomore Kendall Eaton guards the ball from the Hopewell Blue Devils, as she races up the field. The game, which took place on Sept 22 ended with a Lady Royal Victory 6-0.

Photo by Sarah Tinker.

For more photos of the Varsity Field Hockey Team go to www.trnwired. smugmug.com

ABOVE: Sophomore Cassidy Wilkinson fights for the ball against the Hopewell team at the Sept 22 game. The Lady Royals faced the Blue Devils again on Oct 8, and again had an impressive slaughter rule victory of 6-0.

The Lady Royals finished their season with an impressive 15-1 record.

Photo by Sarah Tinker.

FRIDAY 11.14.14 | THE ROYAL NEWS | 21

Fall sports

Kansas City Chiefs: Contenders or Pretenders?

Senior Faces Season- A Ending Injury Senior Heath Pack Suffers Dislocated Ankle, Broken Fibula.

Brooke Guerrero trn writer

A

s calls and plays were chanted through the crisp autumn air, senior Heath Pack was unaware that what happened next would change his football career forever.

Heath was injured in the middle of the season during a routine practice.

“I was blocking someone and someone else pushed a player into me and they rolled on my foot,” Pack said. “I was scared at first because they couldn’t find a pulse in my foot, so they would’ve had to medivac me to MCV.” Pack refused to allow his injury to keep him from doing what he loves.

“He worked incredibly hard to rehab from the injury and give himself a chance to play this season,” football coach Justin Keeler said.

For many athletes an injury can be devastating, but not for Pack. The athlete was determined to play again. With the motivation given by his team and a long recovery time Pack was back on the field to play for the Royals. Not only does the team motivate him, they support him through pain and triumph.

“I like being with the team. They’re a family,” Heath Pack said. “[When I was injured], most everyone was by my side trying to calm me down and reassure me, and trying to tell me everything would be alright.”

And as a family the Royals helped Pack recover from his serious injuries that kept him from playing the game he loves.

“Heath suffered a dislocated ankle and a broken Fibula in four places,” Cathy Pack said.

Fractures of the fibula bone in the lower leg occur as a result of direct trauma or impact to the leg or ankle, which would

easily occur in football. Symptoms usually include a sudden pain in the lower leg with rapid swelling following the impact, collision, or fall. The athlete will likely limp or be unable to bear weight on the affected leg.

Though a serious injury, it is possible for an athlete to continue competing after suffering from this injury.

The fibula is the smaller of the two shin bones on the outside of the lower leg. It can be felt as the bony lump on the outside of the ankle.

A dislocated ankle is an uncommon injury, but when they do occur they are usually associated with a fracture of the fibula. It is uncommon because of the natural strength of the ankle. In order for the dislocation, all ligaments on one side must rupture. However, after treatment the injury may be placed in a cast for several weeks, and the patient may be required to use crutches.

After the long waiting and recovery, Heath Pack was allowed back on the field.

When he returned he played his heart out, proving that injury is no excuse to quit do-

Senior Heath Pack kneels during the game against Thomas Dale on Oct. 3. Pack sustained a season-ending injury during a routine practice. Photo by Matteo Reed. ing what you love.

“Not only did Heath play, but he played well. Not because he’s big or athletic, but because of his effort, resolve, and intelligence,” Keeler said.

Heath Pack’s determination to improve as a player has been an inspiration to athletes, no matter the sport. Not only does this make Heath Pack an inspiration, but it makes him a crucial asset to both the team and Prince George High School.

“He is unselfish and helped others to get better,” Keeler said.

That being said, Heath Pack is not only a star on the field but off the field as well.

He works to better himself in everything he does and will not let anyone or anything, not even a serious injury, stop him.

lthough the Chiefs do not have the best record in the AFC, at 5-3, they are serious contenders in the AFC, and have proven that to me during the first half of the season.

In the 2013 season the Chiefs started out 9-0 against sub-par competition and then went 2-6, including the postseason, to finish the season. The Chiefs secondary was horrendous in the second half of the 2013 season, when finally Ryan Albright going against teams with a good quarterback, and that was the reason for both their bad second half record and their blown 3810 lead in the Wild Card stage of the playoffs.

In fact, they gave up 247.7 passing yards per game, 26th most in the NFL. This year, on the other hand, the Chiefs have played the 7th hardest schedule of any NFL team so far, according to teamrankings.com. This schedule includes top tier teams such as Denver, San Francisco, New England, and San Diego. Against these teams, the Chiefs have split the games with a 2-2 record.

Out of their two wins against these teams, the Chiefs completely dominated 3 time Super Bowl Champion Tom Brady and the Patriots on Monday Night Football, 41-14.

Then they “upset” the Chargers 23-20.

In their two losses against these teams, the Chiefs lost to the Broncos 24-17, but had a chance to tie the game up on a 4th and 2 with 15 seconds left on the two-yard line.

Then against the 49ers, the Chiefs were down 5 and had a chance to win with just over 2 minutes to play, and they threw an interception, which sealed the game for the 49ers, 22-17.

Going back to pass defense, the Chiefs have faced stellar competition, as far as quarterbacks go, and have only allowed 205.3 passing yards per game (ESPN.com), which ranks 1st in the NFL, up 25 spots from 26th in the NFL in 2013.

The improved pass defense, along with the 6th most time of possession averaging 31 minutes per game (Sportingcharts. com), having the 6th most rushing yards at 136.9 per game (ESPN.com), and being the only team that has not allowed a rushing touchdown this year proves to me that the Chiefs are a serious contender in the AFC and in the playoff race.

22 | THE ROYAL NEWS | FRIDAY 11.14.14

Student Section Cheers New-Found Student Support of the Football Team Empowers Players and Represents Prince George. to come. It’s important that we support each other and create many great high school memories.”

The student section does its best to encourage the team to play well.

When you are on the field and playing amidst the aggression and physicality, sometimes momentum may slide the other way. The game may not go as planned (it rarely does) and one may find themselves self on the wrong side of the scoreboard. But having fans and supporters that will hearten and cheer for the team no matter what can have a game-changing effect on the players.

“To get hype I listen to trap house radio, and wear green and gold. I yell and scream, and just go crazy for our team. We do a lot of chants and my favorite is the Band Dance song. It’s where the band plays a particular song and the cheerleaders get together and cheer with us,” senior Sarah Stech said. “[But overall], I believe a student section is important because we need to show our athletes that we actually care and we try to encourage them to do well.”

In the game of football, every advantage is crucial. Every shift in momentum could mean the difference between winning and losing. And when a team is surrounded by fans and doused

Paul Dennis trn writer

I

t is 3rd and 2 and the Royals are down 14-0 with the ball on their own 40 yard line. The Royals desperately need a first down to move the chains and get some momentum.

Senior Keandre Souza is at quarterback and right before he hikes the ball, he stops and listens. The crowd is screaming. But what really stands out is the student section.

Dozens of Prince George Royals are jumping up and down, screaming in support. The noise is deafening; the emotion thick enough to feel. He can’t let them down. He won’t let them down.

Souza hikes the ball, drops back, takes a deep breath, and throws the ball downfield to a running Montae Bradshaw for a touchdown.

Each Friday of every week the student section is out supporting the team.

It does not matter if it is raining, snowing, below 30 degrees or above 80. The student section is a section of a team’s stands or bleachers that is reserved solely for members of the school so that they can support the team in their own way. But people rarely understand just how much it affects the players. When the fans rally a player, it ignites the determination of that player to make plays and do better.

“The student section definitely affects how I play and the attitude I have on the field. The fact is, the more they cheer, the more you feel you can’t let them down,” Souza said. “They are important to me because they are my peers and they represent Prince George and what we stand for.”

The players aren’t the only ones who

Junior Caitlin Leary shows her school spirit for the pep rally. Photo by Daniel Puryear.

appreciate the student section either. Everyone who comes out and supports the team in the student section does so with the intent of enjoying every moment they are there. They take pleasure in representing the school in as best a way as possible.

“It shows that there is a core group of students that support our Royals no matter what,” junior Brooklyn Morning said. “We want to create school spirit and reflect PG positively. Whenever we have an active, hype student section it encourages others

Top: senior JoJo Taylor gets hype for the cheerleading competition. Photo

by Tyneshia Griffin.

Bottom Right: The student section throws green and gold powder during the homecoming football game on Oct. 17th. Photo by Daniel Puryear.

Bottom Left: The football team prepares to break the banner and run out during the fall pep rally. Photo by Daniel Puryear.

On Football Team

FRIDAY 11.14.14 | THE ROYAL NEWS | 23

Students’ Opinion of the Student Section Do you attend football games regularly?

71% Yes No 29%

Do you sit in the student Section?

33% Yes No 67%

Do you think the student section is good enough?

17% Yes No 83%

87 students were surveyed during their fifth block class.

girls Winter >> Varsity basketball invitational is Sports Dec. 4th-6th.

Upcoming Events

>>

Varsity boys basketball game vs. Hopewell is Tues., Dec. 9th at 7:30 P.M.

>>

Varsity girls basketball game at Hopewell is Tues., Dec. 9th at 7:30 P.M.

>>

Varsity indoor track meet at Matoaca is Thurs., Dec. 11th at 3:30 P.M.

Royals Win District Competition Alesondra Adams trn writer

T

Junior Peyton Mitchell performs routine at the Regional Competition. This is the second year in a row that the Royals have qualified for Regionals. For more cheerleading photos visit trnwired Photo by Sarah Tinker.

he cheerleaders’ hearts beat rapidly as they look at each other nervously. Sweat drips off of the heads of a few of them. “Second place goes to…” the announcer pauses. “Thomas Dale.” He finishes. Their eyes go wide as they realize they won. They just won Districts. That means they get to advance in the competition.

The varsity cheerleading squad defeated Thomas Dale on October 14 for the first time ever. On November 1, the cheer team faced Manchester in an event that ultimately determined their success - Regionals.

“Practice like you perform” is the motto that the cheerleaders go by. They added new skills into their routine and perfected what they already had to lead them to victory.

“Our goals for the team are to continue to build a program that allows these athletes to succeed both on and off the mat, and to have more athletes participate in off season training to improve their individual skills whether it is here, at a cheer gym or tumbling facility,” Rebecca Haydt, head coach of the Competition Cheer Squad, said.

October 14 was a special day for the competition cheerleaders as they took home their very first victory. Technique, variety, enthusiasm and presentation are what brought the team together against Thomas Dale.

“I felt proud when we won Districts. We’ve never won [Districts] before,” Peyton Mitchell, junior and varsity cheerleader said. “We were really shocked when we found out.”

The cheer squad pulled through with tight motions and facials as their coaches looked on with excitement.

“I was really excited when we won Districts. We did what we did out there,” Junior and varsity cheerleader Kourtney Medlin,

said.

Though some believe they were most proud of their victory on October 14, there is one person who believes otherwise.

“I was the most proud of our squad when at our conference competition on October 23rd, 4 of our 5 Elite Stunts were not completely successful but instead of falling apart and letting this hold them back, they completed their district winning routine,” Haydt said. “This demonstration of great poise under pressure allowed them to place 3rd at Conference and advance to the Regional Competition.”

They believed their near full squad tumbling, variety and excitement of their routine, and the team’s drive to succeed is what has helped them advance to Regionals.

“Each one of these athletes was focused on winning the district title. There are always areas that need improvement but we don’t view [improvements] as weaknesses,” Haydt said.

The competition cheerleading squad had practiced nonstop since October, and did not plan on stopping until they won first place in Regionals.

“We had practice three hours a day after school, and on Saturdays we practiced for four hours, in the morning,” Medlin said.

The cheerleading squad has worked very hard, and with the support of their families, peers, and coaches, they believed they were ready for success.

Although they believed they could not be defeated, the victory for first place went to Manchester on November 1. They did not place in the top four, and could not advance in the competition. This loss did not break the girls up, but instead brought them closer together as the cheerleading season came to an end.

“I felt really sad when the cheer season ended because some of my friends are seniors and they will be graduating this year, but overall it has been a really good season,” Mitchell said.