oct

VTA play displays struggles of teenage parents> p. 16

random searches help keep students safe in school >p. 6

This year the VTA One Act play deals with a more serious topic. The play describes the difficulties young parents endure each and every day of their lives.

Issue 2, Volume VII October 9, 2008

On Oct. 2 the School Board conducted a random, suspicionless search of the student body. The searches are meant to help keep the school environment safe.

Prince George High School’s Student Newspaper 7801 Laurel Spring Rd. Prince George, VA 23875 www.trnwired.com (804) 733-2720

theRoyalNews

Students get involved in politics p. 12-13

Seniors Nathan Hunt and Alex Johnson will express their political views in a school-wide mock election. See why this national election and the state of Virginia are so important this Nov. 4. photos by Taryn Langley

Inside look at new Richard Bland College dormitories through resident assistant’s eyes p. 10

Page 2 -The Royal News - October 9, 2008

Op/ED Editorial

Civic duty realized with election

A

merica: home of the brave, land of freedom, land of opportunity, the people who stand for those who can not stand on their own. Voting is the basis of freedom and liberty, as we know it as Americans. If such a right were denied of us then we would not be America.

Voting is the backbone of these beliefs, because these beliefs stand on democracy. We are a true democracy, but a part of democracy is the ability to choose. Some choose to not exercise their right to vote. However, it is not just a right, it’s a duty. It is a civic duty to be informed about the issues that not only affect you, but every American.

It is your duty, your right, to stand up to politicians and tell them where they can shove their bureaucratic ideals and amoral behavior. But, if one does not vote, one can not tell politicians to shove it, one can not tell them anything, because the moment one decides to not vote, one gives up their power to speak up and speak out against the injustices of this country.

Think about it, politicians and the government get their power, their authority from the franchised population. If you are not a part of that population, if you ignore your ability to vote, they will not listen to you, they are no longer obligated to care about what you think and how you feel.

Some might say that voting doesn’t really matter, since one does not directly vote for the president. However, they are wrong, voting does matter, if it did not matter, people would not give their lives for such a right.

The Revolutionary War was not fought for the heck of it; it was fought to end tyranny in this country. By ending said tyranny Americans were restored their right to vote. Women did not leave their homes, ruin their reputations, get arrested and thrown into jail, and worse, for something that did not matter.

The Civil Rights movement was not started just to raise noise. No it was started and it continued and it gained momentum for something much more than injustice and inequality. It was started, it continued, and it gained momentum for the right to change such injustices and inequalities.

In order for this country to regain its hope and confidence, its citizens need to refocus and become involved. Not just its citizens, you. You as a young, 18 year old American need to become involved. Make a difference, and change the world. For those who vote do have the power to not just change the country, but change the world.

OP/ED

letters theRoyalNews

Dual-enrollment not technically PGHS

I recently found out from my art teacher of last year that students enrolled in dual-enrollment art classes are not offered membership in the art club here at the high school. That an advanced art student who has chosen to take a more challenging art class offered here at the high school, furthering his or her artistic knowledge would be denied such a club membership is quite unsettling to me. Should a student be penalized for ambition? I think not. However, the art club sponsor maintains that dualenrollment art students are no longer technically enrolled in high school art classes. I know personally that I attempt to involve myself in as many school organizations as possible, not only for the experience, but because I want these clubs and organizations to appear on my college application. I want art club membership to appear on my college application.

O

ur mission as the school newspaper for Prince George High School is to provide a form of media that represents all aspects of student life.

The goal is to present factual accounts of newsworthy events in a timely manner. Our publication will be informative, entertaining and reflective of the student body’s opinions.

It is the desire of the staff to reach every student and tell as many of their stories as possible.

We invite your commentary: The Royal News Opinion page is a forum for public discussion and shall be open to all students. The Royal News will print as many letters as space will allow. The Royal News reserves the right not to print a letter.

The Royal News publishes a wide variety of opinions. Send letters to: Letters to the Editor, The Royal News, PGHS, 7801 Laurel Spring Road, Prince George, Virginia 23875, or bring them to room 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. Next chance to submit letters will be for the October Issue. Thanks for all the letters.

Editor-in-Chief Chelsea Nave

Section Editors Liana Elopre - News

Junior Meaghan O’Hare

Erica Bulger - Op/Ed Mia Norman - Features Katie Adams - Variety Kayla Carneal - A&E

Hallway traffic causes time concern

Josh Stewart - Sports Kenneth Wooten - Sports Spencer Lambert - Sports Taryn Langley - Double Truck Brittany Carpenter - Photo Savanah Stricklin - Photo

“Come on people, just walk a little faster!” is all I find myself saying as I walk back and forth to class. It seems as though every year, more and more students take their own sweet time to get to class. Yes, we all have seven minutes to arrive at our destination, yet students still end up tardy. And why?! Because you either end up in a packed doorway (D-wing) or somehow manage to get behind a huge group of students that walk side by side, talking up a storm, and taking all the time in the world to get to class. It’s simply ridiculous! For one day at school, it would be nice to walk from point A to point B in a steady stream of movement, without having to weave and dart through procrastinators!

Junior Jessica Stainback

Shereese Blanks - Copy Editor Madison Moss - Webpage manager/Ads manager Alexandria Binford - Circulation

Editorial Cartoonist Tori Anderson

Adviser

Chris Waugaman

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

Professional affiliations & awards Columbia Scholastic Press Associations Gold Medalist 2008 National Scholastic Press Assoc. 1st Class Award 2007 Virginia High School Association Trophy Class 2007 Quill & Scroll International 1st Place 2007 SIPA All Southern 2008

OP/ED

October 9, 2008 - The Royal News - Page 3

We can’t all be ‘Gossip Girls’

M

ost people would not call me feminine. Myself included.

Maybe it’s because I think burping has comedic potential. Maybe it’s because I hate shopping with every fiber of my being. Or maybe it’s because I don’t find Zac Efron attractive.

Erika Bedwell It didn’t used to be this way. I used to prefer the company of Barbie dolls to that of real people (I still do -- just replace “Barbie dolls” with “the computer”). I used to eat teen magazines for breakfast while skipping an actual breakfast in order to maintain my girlish figure.

The Erika of then is certainly not the Erika of today -- and not just because I ate Berry Cap’n Crunch this morning.

Today’s Erika is so unfeminine that she (I) refuses to watch Lifetime even if absolutely nothing else is on. I refuse to sink that low. The fact that I love America’s Next Top Model is already low enough. I’m not sure why, but watching Tyra gloat about her once-successful modeling career while simultaneously

making younger, prettier girls cry is extremely entertaining.

Back in the good ol’ days (meaning anywhere from feudal times to say, the 1950s) being lady-like meant keeping to yourself, waiting on your husband hand and foot, and being the absolute picture of chastity and grace. Oh, and one mustn’t forget to tighten her corset just enough until her breathing was adequately restricted.

Now in today’s Gossip Girlsenselessly resurrected 90201 culture, “feminine” has a whole new definition.

The cool, popular, beautiful girls I see on TV are all carbon copies of one another.

Which is bad enough in itself, but what makes it even worse is the fact that they are all backstabbing, manipulative, boyfriend-stealers.

Today feminine puts less of an emphasis on “look pretty and keep quiet” and more of an emphasis on “look unattainably beautiful while trying to get as much attention as humanly possible in one forty-two-minute TV segment.”

I find it particularly hilarious when these TV segments (which are only forty-two minutes due to the superfluous Vanessa Anne Hudgens-endorsed Neutrogena ads spliced between scenes)

attempt deal with “real issues” that real people face. Instead of an episode premise being, “OMG, someone hacked into my Blackberry!” it will pertain to someone the average viewer can relate to and root for, like a virtuous girl who feels pressured to have sex with her boyfriend.

Here’s a crazy idea: maybe if her boyfriend weren’t constantly bombarded with images sexualizing girls on television programs such as the ones in question, he wouldn’t feel the need to pressure her in the first place.

But this kind of hypocrisy is limited, seeing as virtuous girls are a television rarity. I’m sorry to say that the stars of The Hills (LC, Whitney, and Audrina – I currently ask myself “Why are they famous?” but soon will be asking “Where are they now?”) bare too much of a resemblance to the women I see on those Girls Gone Wild commercials that come on Comedy Central at three in the morning.

So where do females strike a balance between being dignified, yet confined and being liberated, yet wanton?

Maybe we’ll find out on the next episode of Gossip Girl.

Making The Grade

A

Spirit week had many

students participate and take pride in the school’s homecoming. Students’ enthusiasm proved to have made an impact when Prince George High School won the game.

Mock elections are being + held this month. The mock

B

elections will allow studdents to vote for their chosen presidential candidate. The elections will give students an insight into the processes of actual voting.

detector search, - Metal this new school year has

B

undergone new increased security measures. Though the new measures help make the school safer, classes are interuppted due to the time consumption of the procedures.

Should there be an age limit on trick-or-treating?

I

think there should be an age limit on trick-or-treating. It is not because of the cliche that says “act your age,” but because it would just be weird and strange to see a sixteen or seventeen year old coming up to the door saying “trick or treat.”

So, the age limit for trick or treating should be fifteen years old. It is not too Amir vera old or too young. At fifteen, children tend to look like they still have their youth, but at the same time have a mature vibe. Sixteen and beyond is way too old to be trick or treating. That does not mean though that they cannot dress up in costumes; but it needs to be for a different purpose. People in their late teens ought to be going to parties, or at least chaperoning their little brother or sister’s trick-or-treating.

For those children who look like they are older than they are, I say tough luck. I myself have never been denied candy on Halloween, but I have known children who have.

But it is also the adult’s fault for supplying the candy. If a person comes to your door and appears to be over fifteen, deny them candy. If the child acts like a fifteen-year-old or below, they should give them candy.

Although I am against over-age trick-or-treating, that does not mean children, whatever their age, cannot enjoy themselves on Halloween.

T

PRO Con SET AGE “the age limit for trick or treating should be fifteen years old, it is not too old or too young.”

type of fun

“a teenager is spending time visiting their community and having harmless fun.”

tori anderson

rick or treating for Halloween is a riteof-passage for many young children.

There can be nothing more fun than dressing up in silly/scary/ridiculous costumes and loading up on sugar-high inducing candy. But why should the fun stop there? I still enjoy dressing up in fun costumes. And I certainly still enjoy candy.

Age should not limit trick-or-treating.

Though many teenagers move on, it should not be everyone. I am nearly eighteen, but Halloween is my favorite holiday, and I

enjoy celebrating it.

However, if there was no age limit on trick-or-treating, the participant should be required to dress up in a costume. Halloween isn’t just about free candy. It’s the spirit that matters. Some teenagers may spend Halloween trying to bum free candy, but others truly want to celebrate it. It’s true you can easily go to the store and purchase candy, but that’s just not the same at all!

Some say that it’s too weird to see a teenager trick-or-treating. But it should be refreshing. Instead of toilet papering houses, or going to crazy parties, a teenager is spending time visiting their community and having harmless fun. Most of us are in too much of a hurry to grow up.

What’s wrong with being a kid once in a while?

We spend every other day of the year being young adults. We should be allowed to be kids at least once in a while. When we finally turn eighteen we may wish we had spent more time just being kids.

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News

Sophomore representation slumping Class of 2011’s senators are at a two to one ratio to other class senators

T

News briefs

There will be an early release for students on Monday, Oct. 13, at 11:45 AM. The PSAT for sophomores and juniors will be held on Oct. 15, during first and third block.

shereese blanks trn copy editor

he sophomore class Student Government Association has a unique and precedential situation.

The sophomore class of 2011 does not have enough senators, and therefore is in search of more.

“This has never happened before,” sophomore class sponsor Beth Houlihan remarked.

“The SGA constitution does not provide for a set number, typically it is 10 per class, sometimes the sponsor will allow more, but never less,” Student Government Association sponsor Mike Nelson said, “The only drawback is the SGA constitution only allows two appointed senator each class.”

While there is no set number Nelson wants to make sure every class has an equal opportunity in their voice.

“We need more to at least give them a fighting chance, and to make things balanced,” Nelson said, “It’s been a rule for a really long time, I guess that you don’t want elections to be over powered. Like if you have to have ten but you only have eight that are worthy to be senators you don’t want to be forced to pick all ten.”

Right now however, the sophomores have six senators while the junior and senior classes have twelve.

The size might not be a bad thing.

“I like it, this group is more organized and more motivated to get things done because it is such a small group,” Houlihan said.

Word spread through announcements in sophomore homerooms, an announcement at the sophomore class hot topic, and by the usual word-of-mouth.

October 9, 2008 - The Royal News - Page 5

There will be a Longwood representative for interested seniors on Oct. 17, at 1:00 PM. Sophomore Zanya Umpierre submits her application for class senator to Student Government Association sponsor Michael Nelson. The SGA is in need of sophomore senators to balance an unequal representation. photo by Shereese Blanks Applications for appointment will be on the SGA board after homecoming week. Once the applications have been completed, they will be handed over to the Executive Board, who, along with Nelson, will make the decision of which two applicants will be appointed.

There are certain qualifications for the senator position.

“They have to like to work and have good ideas,” sophomore class president Braden Jones said.

“Someone that has dedication is always a good thing,” Nelson said.

“I helped with the wall except for two days, I came up with the idea for making lanterns, I have been painting, I am creative and I have good ideas. For the homecoming dance I am going to help by selling concessions,” sophomore Zanya Umpierre explains why she feels that she is a good candidate for SGA senator.

SGA, or Student Government Association, is the student body’s middleman, connecting the students to the administration. It also keeps school spirit alive by hosting school spirited activities, such as homecoming week and dances.

The SGA follows the SGA Consti-

tution. It is a document written and approved by students.

The reason why the sophomore class is short when it comes to the senators is one of many different viewpoints.

The shortage of school spirit is to blame for why there is not enough senators,” “This is the first time ever that there were not enough senators, and it’s due to military reassignments,” Houlihan said.

No matter what the reason for such an event, it has in fact opened a lot of doors for the sophomore class.

“It’s an excellent event. It gives new students a chance to get involved. It’s nice to see so many sophomores involved,” Nelson said.

“I didn’t run last year, but then Laura Young came to my homeroom and asked who wanted to run, and I have always been school spirited,” sophomore Rachel Karns said.

For Umpierre this gives her an opportunity after a missed deadline.

“I had the forms, petitions, everything, but I was absent the day I had to turn in the forms, and Mrs. Braswell would not let me turn them in the next day,” Umpierre explains.

club news briefs SADD Club fees due

by Monday, Oct. 13, to Mrs. Ajmani or Mr. Kauffman.

SGA meeting on Tuesday, Oct. 14, directly after school in the library.

Interested sophomore SGA applications due Friday, Oct. 17 to Mr. Nelson.

Page 6 - The Royal News -October 9, 2008

Random student searches with metal detectors hope to increase security liana elopre trn news editor

T

ylenol or prescription drugs, cell phones and electronics are common items in a teenager’s book bag; however, being caught with one of these items in school can have unwanted consequences. Worse consequences are taken for those who bring weapons or drugs and alcohol.

The school board is updating and improving techniques to increase security for an ideal learning and teaching environment.

“Big brother is watching,” assistant principal Joe McDaniels said.

Every year the school updates the surveillance cameras that McDaniels watches for suspicious behavior. If necessary, canine searches will be held to sniff for violators.

This year, administrators have a new approach to random searches with the assistance of metal detectors and local police.

“The administration is doing all we possibly can do to keep a safe environment.

It should give everyone a calm feeling,” McDaniels said.

Students agree that safety is necessary for learning, however disagree with the new plans of security like senior Michelle Stith.

“I guess in a way it’s necessary, but I think metal detectors are just too over the top. There are other ways that security can be done. I mean, the canine searches were successful,” Stith said.

As well as randomly selected class room searches, a new alternative is searching the whole student body. The School Board and administration have it all strategically planned out.

“It’s a coordinated effort where detectors will be set up in the commons or gym lobby for all the students to pass through.

It will take up one period in the morning or the afternoon for the entire school,” McDaniels said.

“The search will be done by the school’s staff. Administration is conducting it and school resource officers and policemen are there to help and support,” Superintendent Dr. Francis R. Moore.

Student’s Rights Student’s rights are limited by in loco parentis which under the Constitution allows the school to be the acting adult when parents are absent. Thus, the school is permitted to discipline and take actions toward students that interrupt or interfere with the school’s main goal, to educate.

“Most parents do not complain with our schools actions and security. Some have concerns usually if they see things in the news. Parents want to know what would happen in Prince George,” McDaniels said.

All rights are not totally stripped from students. They have the right to a safe education. Some students recognize the benefits of in loco parentis.

“It’s nice to know there is some kind of authority when parents are not present,” Stith said.

Administration may be allowed to act as a parent but they do have limitations and certain rights.

“Obviously we do not do strip searches but we can do anything on school property like cars, book bags and pocketbooks,” said McDaniels.

According to the Encouraging Positive Student Conduct and Safety Handbook, any alcohol, tobacco, anabolic steroids, or any other drug products is prohibited.

Those who are caught violating the student code of conduct are tried for expulsion.

“It is school board policy that administrators have to recommend expulsion. We do not play games. If a student is expelled, he or she can not go or be admitted to any public schools for 365 days,” Dr. Moore said.

In the conduct book it states that the ‘superintendent may conduct a review in such a case to determine whether a disciplinary action other than expulsion is appropriate, and recommend that action to the School Board for final determination’.

Safety is main

When & Why? The searches will be held sporadically throughout the year as they have been in the past to deterrent students who do bring those things. Also, in the past the random searches have occurred at sporting events.

Student body searches during school hours with metal detectors have been successful before in Prince George and currently in different districts.

“Coming from John Marshall, an inner city school, random searches were more common and expected from students, but in Prince George they are in the beginning of the process,” Assistant Principle Janie

Williams said.

Overall the searches will ultimately benefit the school by increasing the safety.

“We are keeping the environment safer by acting proactive instead of reactive. We do not want to wait for a big problem before we do anything,” McDaniels said.

Junior Peyton Loving grabs his bag as marketing teacher Lawrence Brewton and assistant principal Chris Romig search bags during the random student body search in the commons. photo by Savanah Stricklin

concern

October 9, 2008 - The Royal News - Page 7

How do you feel about the increase in security and random student body searches?

“It was really unnecessary. There was no reason to search the entire school, because there are some obvious people that would not bring anything and it was just a huge waste of time.”

-Junior Melvin Pulver

“I’m for it because I have nothing to hide. It will put the criminals in jail and not in our school.”

-Senior Kyle Kelly

“I don’t think the searches are right because they are searching people who don’t have anything and make them feel like criminals.”

-Sophomore Anita Tyler

Student’s rights are limited by in loco parentis which under the Constitution allows the school to be the acting adult when parents are absent. Thus, the school is permitted to discipline and take actions toward students that interrupt or interfere with the school’s main goal, to educate.

“People should not get suspended for pills like Tylenol, Midol, or prenatal vitamins. They did not find anything on anybody, so what is the point? The school is already safe.”

-Junior Robin Hill

FEATURES

Page 8 - The Royal News - October 9, 2008

Senior Daniel Arakelian prepares his voter registration foms.

He plans to vote in the November election at the courthouse. photo by Chelsea Nave

Election offers senior privilege Chelsea Nave trn editor-in-chief

H

eads bash.

Tempers flare.

Words are exchanged, and yet certain seniors are jumping into this fray with enthusiasm.

“It’s exciting and it’s awesome,” senior Katelyn Akers said.

This entire hullabaloo is caused by the democratic action, voting.

“It makes me feel grown up that my opinion matters,” Akers said. “All the way McCain and Palin.”

Senior Stephen Arakelian shares this sentiment and voted in the February Presidential primary at the courthouse.

“I’m a McCainiac,” Arakelian said. “I support his noble deeds in ‘Nam.” Senior Daniel Arakelian, Stephen’s twin brother, also leans more to the Republican side.

“My parents are both Republicans which has some impact,

but I have my own views,” Daniel said. “If you were to look at my views I would be more Republican than Democrat, but I don’t agree with it all.”

Like most people, Daniel and Stephen do not agree on everything.

“We have similar views, but there are some things we do not agree on,” Daniel said. “No two people agree on everything.”

“I am my own person and I have my own beliefs,” Stephen said. “I speak my own mind.”

But, both Arakelian twins agree that their vote is important this fall.

“I feel that I can best vote for my country,” Stephen said. “I have a voice now and I can let my voice be heard.”

“I want to make the best decision possible,” Daniel said. “I want to make the most of my vote.”

Overall, the young adult vote may keep Virginia a red state or it may turn the state to blue. Daniel though, believes that the race and gender issue will play a crucial part in this election.

“It shouldn’t, but people will view them differently and expect

different standards,” Daniel said and then adds, “It shouldn’t make a difference on how they will do their jobs or carry out their policy.”

“Race should have nothing to do with it,” sophomore Jose Rodriguez said. “It should be about who is best for the country and who would make the country better.”

That is why chemistry teacher Julianne Theune believes that voters need to take the time to learn about the pressing issues and a candidate’s stance on them.

“You need to be an educated voter,” Theune said.

Due to a required core class, voting seniors have an easy way to get that knowledge.

“The best thing is that we are taking government this year,” Daniel said. “Our teacher is informing us of the candidates and so we will be informed about both candidates and their policies.”

Although most high schoolers are not eligible to vote in this upcoming election, several have taken the initiative to learn more and to help out their candidate.

“There are places in Petersburg

that you can help with Obama and also places in Colonial Heights that you can help for McCain,” senior Demetris Ramsey said.

Rodriquez knows first hand about becoming involved in supporting a candidate.

“I visited Barack Obama’s campaign in Petersburg,” Rodriguez said.

Others are just tuning in nightly or watching the headlines.

“I’m actually paying attention to the election now,” junior Breona Jones said. “I haven’t gotten involved in helping a campaign.”

From interviews, to campaign trails, to political ads and signs, it may be easy to forget the hardships that many Americans endured in the name of suffrage.

“It just seems that a lot of people fought to vote, but it seems that many people do not take that opportunity,” Daniel said.

That is why Daniel believes it is so important to vote.

“It is my responsibility as a citizen of the United States of America,” Daniel said.

“I am obligated to.”

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Features

Page 10 - The Royal News - October 9, 2008

Dorm life at Richard Bland

Resident Assistant Catherin Fortmuller lives, works in new residence halls Brittany Tuck trn correspondent

P

rivate bedrooms, full kitchens, personal climate control, and your own washer and dryer; these are things that are not standard for traditional dorm rooms, but are only some of the luxuries of the 248 residents of Richard Bland College’s Freedom and Patriot residence halls.

The residence halls are divided into separate apartments that range from having one to four private bedrooms.

Prince George alumnus Catherin Fortmuller, one of eight Resident Advisors, resides in a single bedroom

apartment in Patriot Hall.

“If I had not gotten the position, I would not be staying in the residence halls,” Fortmuller said. ““I wanted this position because I want to be a teacher and thought the responsibility would help me.”

Richard Bland is the only junior college in Virginia that offers residence halls.

“The halls were founded on the belief that there was a real market for students who wanted the residential experience but were not yet prepared for a four year college,” Director of Residence Life Casey Blankenship said. “Now we are able to offer students the best of both worlds.”

“It‘s nice to be on your own. I was different at first because I have never been away from my sister,” Fortmuller said. “I was a little homesick.”

All students at Richard Bland are given a color coordinated identification card. Residents’ cards allow them access to the Freedom and Patriot halls and to their apartment. However, each bedroom has its own physical key.

“The cards work in a hotel like style to let students in the building or apartments,” Blankenship said.

Housing assignments were not made

at random. Students were asked specific questions about their lifestyles in order to best match them to their roommates.

“I‘m in charge of thirty students,” Fortmuller said. “I am getting to know them, but some are shy and do not talk a lot.”

There are several lobby areas in each building. The first floor in either building has a common lounge area for students.

While the upper floors contain a social lounge and a study area. The college has designated quiet hours from nine to nine during the week so that students may study and prepare for classes.

As a Resident Advisor, Fortmuller is expected to complete daily logs of activities on her floor, complete rounds and plan floor activities.

“Each Resident Advisor has to completes rounds once every other week.

During rounds you have to check every floor in each building three to four times a night and record what is going on,” Fortmuller said. “The hardest part of the job is having to write up students that you’ve gotten to know for bad behavior.”

Freedom and Patriot Halls allow students close access to classes and on campus activities.

“Being a commuter makes it hard

Prince George Alumnae Catherin Fortmuller checks her mail in the lobby of her dorm on campus at Richard Bland College.

Students moved into the brand new dorms this fall. photo by Brittany Tuck

to meet new people and last year most of the people I talked to, I had known in high school,” Fortmuller said. “Now I am living with new people and it is easier for me because I work on campus and have easier access to resources and teachers.”

The residence halls have gained media attention for Richard Bland and the locations from which students are recruited have increased.

“Most of the students staying in the dorms are from Woodbridge and places like Virginia Beach,” Fortmuller said.

Having residence halls has increased Richard Bland’s student body and offers students an alternative to the traditional dorm rooms at larger universities. The apartments offer students a chance to cook, clean, and live on their own.

“You’re not at home anymore,” Fortmuller said.

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October 9, 2008 - The Royal News - Page 11

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Page 12 - The Royal News - October 9, 2008

Battleground state

October 9, 2008 - The Royal News - Page 13

Why is Virginia wavering now?

Alex Johnson Republican

Louise Thornton

Government Teacher

Why should Virginia vote Republican?

“John McCain has real American values. He speaks to rival parts of the state. He also relates to the common individual, not a celebrity like Barack Obama. McCain provides foreign policy experience and no one else has executive experience like Sarah Palin.”

When did Virginia last vote Democratic and why?

“The last time was in 1964 for Lyndon B. Johnson. Lead by Harry Byrd the Democratic Party was very strong in Virginia. Johnson was a southerner running against Barry Goldwater, who was perceived by some as too extreme.”

How do you think Virginia will sway?

“In the words of Larry Sabato, a professor at UVA, Virginia has been broken into three parts.

One-third northern will go Obama, one-third rural will go McCain, and one-third military will go McCain. Sabato thinks Virginia will stay Republican and I tend to agree.”

What is the most exciting thing about the election?

“The election will make history with either ticket. Both parties have gone away from traditional white males. I have enjoyed students becoming more involved.”

Virginia offers 13 Votes 270 electoral votes needed to win National Average CNN.com as of 10/8

John McCain 174 Barack Obama 264 Toss-up 100

Prince George Dual Primaries www.princegeorgeva.org Democrat: Barack Obama 2,554 Republican: John McCain 1,020 Turnout: 30.42% February 13, 2008

Nathan Hunt Democratic

Why should Virginia vote Democratic?

“Virginia is a changing state. Military personnel from different areas are steadily migrating to this area for Ft. Lee. Obama has what Virginia wants to see. Also, whatever Obama lacks Joe Biden makes up for. Together they will restore America to its former glory.

Designed by: Taryn Langley

Variety>>

Page 14 - The Royal News - October 9, 2008

Trick or Treat Caramel Corn

Preparation time: 25 min Baking time: 45 min Yield: 26 (1-cup) servings

16 5 2 1 1/2 1/2 1/2 1 1 1

cups plain popped popcorn cups miniature pretzels cups firmly packed brown sugar cup LAND O LAKES® Butter cup dark corn syrup teaspoon salt teaspoon baking soda cup salted peanuts cup candy-coated milk chocolate pieces cup candy corn

Senior Countdown...

133

days

Heat oven to 200°F. Combine popcorn and pretzels in large roasting pan; set aside.

Combine brown sugar, butter, corn syrup and salt in 2-quart saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until mixture comes to a full boil (18 to 20 minutes). Continue cooking, stirring occasionally, until small amount of mixture dropped into ice water forms a soft ball or candy thermometer reaches 238°F (4 to 6 minutes). Remove from heat; stir in baking soda.

Pour mixture over popcorn and pretzels; sprinkle peanuts over popcorn mixture. Stir until all popcorn is coated.

Bake for 20 minutes; stir. Continue baking for 20 minutes. Stir in chocolate pieces and candy corn. Continue baking for 5 minutes.

Immediately spread onto waxed paper to cool. Store in tightly covered container.

Quote of the Month: “Your attitude, not your aptitude, determines your altitude” -Zig Ziglar Sources:-http://landolakes.com/mealideas/viewrecipe. cfm?recipeID=4027 -http://www.mealmatter.org/recipes-meals/recipe/43905

Witches’ Brew Ice Cream Float 3 tablespoons HERSHEY’S Syrup Cold club soda, seltzer or ginger ale 3 scoops (about 3/4 cup) orange sherbet TWIZZLERS Strawberry Twists Directions 1. Combine syrup with small amount of club soda in 16-ounce soda glass.

2. Add sherbet; fill glass with club soda. Garnish with candy. Serve immediately. Makes one 16-oz. serving.

October 9, 2008 - The Royal News - Page 15

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Page16 - The Royal News - October 9, 2008

Theatre alumnae Vanessa Ragland ‘01 to appear in Oct.16 episode of NBC’s The Office From: Vanessa Ragland-Irwin To: pgs.k12.va.us Hey Guys!

I just wanted to give you a quick little update about life. I’ve had a crazy and exciting past three weeks-- very random and busy and lovely! The story basically is, a month ago I made a comic/acting reel for myself (clips of projects I’ve done) then it ended up in some great hands. I am now super happy to say, I have a manager! And not just any manager, a very good (and nice) one, Naomi Odenkirk. (If you are a comedy geek, you might recognize the name, she is Bob Odenkirk’s wife!) It was just made official and I’m so happy. I’ll be auditioning lots!

The craziest thing, was I got to meet and audition for this lady Allison Jones who is a casting director for tons of my favorite comedies (Judd Apatow movies, Freaks and Geeks, The Office, Arrested Development...)

AND in an unheard of wonderful thing... this week I auditioned for, booked, and filmed a small bit on The Office! I had lines and everything, it was such a cool, cool wonderful experience (I even had a trailer on the set!) I think it will air this fall, and of course there is the chance the whole thing can be cut out of the episode, but it was awesome.

So now I get to really commit to acting, and I couldn’t be more excited or feel luckier. Attached are pictures of me freaking out in my trailer (hahahaha) and a picture of my name on the call sheet!

I love you all!

Vanessa

Pictured above is the cast board in Vanessa Ragland’s trailor on the set of The Office.

Ragland has been working in California since graduating from Virgina Tech and UNCW. photo by Vanessa Ragland

One act play addresses topic of teenage pregnancy Madison Moss trn web page & advertisement editor

A

s tradition, this year’s One Act Play competition is getting closer every single day.

The performance, held at the Virginia Theatre Association Conference, is on October 31st for the competition, where over 40 schools around the state will be competing. The in-school performance will be held October 29th for 1st and 3rd block invited classes.

The theme of the play this year deals with a slightly more critical topic, teenage pregnancy.

“The title of the play is “Deep Blue Funk and Other Stories”, written by two men; Daniel B Frank, and Arnold Aprill.

The play is based on true stories about teenage parents,” Theatre teacher and director of the play, Daryl Phillips said.

“The play discusses the difficulties of having a child at a young age, and displays the difficulties that young parents go through each day”.

Although the play discusses an exceptionally serious topic, there are a few moments of lightheartedness in the production.

“Yes, it is a serious play, but like in life, there is also humor in the midst of seriousness. You find humor when you can,” Phillips said.

Quite often, when there are programs, or productions concerning teenage pregnancy, the tone is harsh, and does not take into consideration what the teenager is going through. The main focus of the play is to show the ordeal through the eyes of the teenage parent.

“The story doesn’t preach at you. It shows moments from the young parents’ lives. It shows their thoughts and feelings,” Phillips said.

The play is a collection of stories drawn together by the documentation of young parents’ lives, as written by one of

the two writers.

“Everything in the story is true. One of the authors, Daniel B Frank, actually spent a good deal of time in the suburbs of Evanston, Illinois, interviewing young parents. A short while later, Arnold Aprill approached Frank about putting together a play, basing it off of the stories Frank had been told by the teenage parents,” Phillips said.

The story has a simple, definite setting.

“It takes place in a community center, where the teens hang out and interact with each other,” Phillips said.

Word of the production got out quickly, and many students auditioned for the intriguing production.

“Fifty two students auditioned, and eleven were cast into the play,” Phillips said.

In order for the production to move smoothly, it needs a considerable amount of effort, not only from the actors, but from theater “techies” as well. Senior Kayland Huckaby is one of those technicians.

“My title is Head Costume Mistress, or Assistant Technical Director. I work with the actors concerning their costumes, and make sure everyone has what they need. I’m really excited, because I get to go to the competition with the rest of the cast, where I’m entering one of my costume designs into a competition for a scholarship. I would have loved to try out for the actual play, but my schedule was too busy,” Huckaby said.

In order for any production to get completely efficiently, the actors must be able to put a large amount of time and work into the play.

“The students practice every day after school, for 2 hours a day. Altogether they practice for 6 weeks,” Phillips said.

Besides devoting time after school to the production, student actors need to posses a few significant traits in order to succeed in the production.

“At the high school level, actors need to have a great deal of passion and commitment to the long hours of rehearsal. They need to be devoted to the show. Also, they need to be willing to work together as a team, and be unselfish in a group activity project,” Phillips said.

Overall, the play is a huge team effort, and each person has to play their position.

“Working on theatrical projects is about being willing to fit into a team, being able to work well with others. Those are the things I look for at this level. There are very talented people who just do

A&E

October 9, 2008 - The Royal News - Page17

The cast of Deep Blue Funk and Other Stories constructs a scene for the upcoming one act competition Virgina Theatre Association conducts in November. photo by Savanah Stricklin

Deep Blue Funk and Other Stories brings out serious side of students not work well with others. A good actor needs to be able to get past this barrier,” Phillips said.

Many of the students in the production plan on pursuing a theatrical career later on in life. Besides the actual play competition, the conference includes many different workshops dealing with costume design, play writing, improvisation and many other topics. For seniors in the productions, representatives from colleges around the state allow the perspective students to audition to be a part of the college level theatre organizations.

In order to succeed as an actor later on in life, Philips gives three pieces of advice for future actors and actresses.

“Number one, get a good education.

Jack Lemon, one of our most famous American actors once said, ‘The most valuable thing an actor can have is a good, liberal arts education’. Students need to get an education rich in world history and literature,” Philips said, “Number two, the students need to have a thick skin to go into the real world of theater. Nine times out of ten you’re not going to get the job. And thirdly, if you’re going to be really successful, you have to be willing to sacrifice everything, and move your life to a theatrical center.

Go where the big things are happening.

Put yourself out there in the center, and you’ll increase your opportunity greatly.”

The Ensemble Haseena Abdur-Rahan Erika Bedwell Blaine Harper Jasmine Johnson Katrine Lockhart Kelsie McDaniels Meghan O’Hare Cameron Odom Tatiana Rosa Alex Sleeper Ryan Wheaten

Brock Congleton Stage Manager Kayland Huckaby Costume Coordinator Haygen Walker Assistant Director Daryl Phillips Director Beth Houlihan Technical Director

SPORTS

Page 18 - The Royal News -October 9, 2008

Chicks with sticks are back

Experience, accomplishment and new approach lead the Lady Royals to focus on postseason Josh Stewart trn sports editor

T

his year the chicks with sticks are getting it done, the field hockey team that is. A team full of experience and raw talent make up the Lady Royals Field Hockey team this season.

A different approach, heavy senior count, and win over a team that has not been beaten by the Royals in the year are all reasons for the team’s success this year.

“We’re focusing on only just a few drills this year and perfecting them, rather than being mediocre at a bunch of drills,” senior Andrea Bryant said.

Other players relate the high percentage of seniors and experienced players as the new approach.

“Coach really isn’t pulling people up this year from JV, we have so many good people on the team that when he substitutes in the game, the players that go in are just as good as the one that came out,” senior Sarah Lamb said.

Seniors and other experienced players making up over half the team is another reason for team’s accomplishment.

“They really help the team out, especially the younger ones just coming up by showing them what to do and how to do it,” sophomore Kristalea Sheaffer said.

The experience not only helps the team out on the mentoring side of things but on the mental side as well.

“The team is so flooded with talent, it just brings a lot of heart to the team,” senior Melissa Negron said.

All of these components came together in the teams stunning 2-0 win over field hockey powerhouse Maggie Walker.

“The game was so awesome and really exciting, you go to play them and you don’t want to lose but we didn’t really expect to win since they are such a good team. It’s the fact that we did so well and that it was a shutout that was shocking, because of their status,” junior Laura Aguilar said.

The win for the Royals not only gave them a boost of confidence but also broke a long losing streak to Maggie Walker.

“We haven’t beaten them in three or four years,” Bryant said.

With the win over behind them the team looks forward, past the regular season and into postseason play. The pressure of making states last year only drives the Lady Royals to surpass last season and raise the bar for years to come.

“I think we can go all the way to states this year again. We have already proven to ourselves that we have the potential and the talent, it’s all about going out onto the field and executing it now,” Aguilar said.

Others think that the pressure of the postseason will bring the best out in the team and take them to a level of play not seen during the regular season.

“The team will get better as the

season progresses into the tournaments,” Sheaffer said.

But along the way to achieving this goal are some rough obstacles the team needs to get over.

“I want to go to regionals and hopefully further. Dale is our biggest competition in the district and they are going to be tough,” Lamb said.

With the postseason in their sights the Lady Royals must piece together all the components that make them so good and use them to their advantage to succeed.

“With all of our experience, seniors, and unity I think that the possibilities of us going far are pretty good,” Bryant said.

Top: Junior Maggie Roberts tackles the ball, while Senior Jaclyn Rhodes and Junior Cady McDonough await for the pass. Right: Senior Maggie Bogese attempts to shake a Matoaca player for the ball.

October 9, 2008 - The Royal News - Page 19

Page 20 - The Royal News - October 9, 2008

Spor ts

Junior Amanda Tomlin leads the race for the girls during their meet against Dinwiddie. photo by Devyn Pachmayr

Every runner counts Kenneth Wooten sports editor

E

very person matters. That is the main thing that allows both cross country boys and girls to compete to their best. Without the required amount of people to compete, the team never fully comes out on top.

“In order to compete, both the boys and the girls need five people each or we forfeit,” senior Bryce Mitchell said.

Cross country does not just require a lot of time, but it also requires a lot of commitment.

For the girls, they seem to have more than enough commitment and time for the sport. The only thing that is different this year is that the girls’ team has exactly five players

compared to the eight players last year.

“Since we have a small amount of girls on our team for cross country, we all really just put in over 100 percent to make up for it. I think that it will pay off in the end,” junior Amanda Tomlin said.

Both teams practice everyday for the chance to win districts, but for the girls, it requires more of their time and more practice.

“We practice everyday after school and we usually have workout days a few times a week. Then we have long runs on other days. With fewer girls though, the girl’s team relies on each other more,” Tomlin said.

Each team member regardless, pushes through each practice looking forward to the opportunity for victory at the end of the week.

“For the past couple of years, our record for the guys has been 6 to 1, only losing to Thomas Dale,” senior Chris Gollub said.

With the competition remaining just as difficult as before, both teams

still strive to come out on top even if there is a lack of teammates.

For the girls, with the decrease in the amount of participants each year, they have more pressure and reliance on each individual and more stress.

“The girls have not done so well in the past couple of years. When I was a freshman, they had won districts. Since then, the girls have not done as well,” Mitchell said.

Even though cross country is a running sport, there is only one event; the 5k. That is why both the girls and the boys’ teams need five teammates each, to have a good chance of competing. If there were only two players against five, then there chances would be extremely slim.

Despite the odds, each and every time the cross country team faces another opponent, the thing they focus on is to come out on top in that one event.

“I try to go through the pain, even if I’m sick,” Mitchell said.

Regardless of the amount of people on either team, both girls and boys cross country teams compete to their

max in order to come out as the victor.

The practices that the boys and girls go through prepare them for the endurance and speed that they will need for the competitions.

“Each practice helps us with the chance at winning. Practice might not make us perfect, but it makes us better. The endurance and speed training help a great deal,” senior Stephen Stolz said.

The physical demands of cross country call for an athlete to keep their body and mind in top shape, no matter what may happen.

“Running requires more than you think. You need to be in shape, eat right, and be able to deal with the pain as you run. Running quickly makes you tired,” Mitchell said.

Maybe more players may help in a team winning mentally, but when it comes down to it, the more motivation and determination athletes have, like the girls cross country team, the better they become as athletes and as true winners.

October 9, 2008 - The Royal News - Page 21

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The PG Players invites you to share in a wonderful year of productions.

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Page 22 - The Royal News - October 9, 2008

Sports

Four returners key to team

Girls volleyball making adjustments to team with only four returning players Alexandria Binford trn staff coordinator

T

he Prince George Lady Royals Volleyball Team has had a good start despite only having four returning players from last year. The team is going through a rebuilding year, and are learning to stick together so that the remainder of the season is successful.

“We are really having a rebuilding period,” Coach Wanda Gilbert said “and Heather Lewis, has not been a regular

setter. Also because Heather is a senior it will effect next year as well, considering she is our only setter.”

The four returning players are: senior Heather Lewis, senior Melissa Martin, junior Brittany Johnson, and junior Sarah Megan Ham. All four of the ladies are captains but they rotate throughout the season.

“All four returning players play on a regular basis and each of them contribute to the team,” Gilbert said.

Considering there are only four returning players on the team , the level of the practices have not been affected.

“We do not have harder practices, we just have a lot more teaching involved, that we did not have happen last year. We are really working hard on our forearm passes, defensive rotations and practicing on our tips over the net,” Gilbert said.

With playing at the varsity level comes the responsibility of remaining focused and not playing around, and also the players must be responsible for their mistakes, and for the mistakes of the team as a whole.

“Everyone really has to work together and get used to the varsity ways and also get used to the way Coach Gilbert works with the team and her strategies,” junior outside hitter Ham said.

With a new team, the new players also have opinions on their four captains.

“I feel really good about having the four returning players with us. They are all nice enough to help out and they also help point out the stuff we do not understand. If you keep shanking (erratic pass) the ball, they assist you on correcting your passes and if your serves are bad, they will tell you what you are doing wrong,” junior Taylor Grigg said.

Not all the new players have had previous experience with volleyball, so everyone one has to come together and help out each other out.

“Keeping everyone optimistic and playing the hardest we can will hopefully help us to win,” senior hitter Martin said.

The season opened up with try-outs on August 4th, and practices happening two days after cuts. With already having half of the games out of the way, the players can reflect on some of the tougher ones.

“I think our hardest game so far has been against Monacan High School. We worked hard, communicated well, moved our feet, and we really began to work as a team,” junior outside hitter Johnson said.

“We lost against Monacan. We were really getting discouraged but we gad to get our points back up,” Martin said.

The ladies still have the rest of the season to continue conditioning and to keep doing drills. Although the players have a goal of having a winning team, players still have their own personal goals to make the season successful.

“I am focusing on my weaknesses. I point out what I am doing wrong, work on it and hope it just falls into place. As a team though, we are just trying to get used to each other and how we all play together as a team. We all need to work on our serve receive, communication and be supportive,” Ham said.

“We all are getting used to each other but I must say it is a little intimidating playing with Heather, Sarah, Brittany, and Melissa. They have had more experience and have already been on the varsity team.

On the other hand, they are my friends so I feel more comfortable with them,” Grigg said.

Senior captain Heather Lewis and junior captain Sarah Megan Ham communicate during practice. Lewis & Ham are two of the four returning players and also share their leadership role with junior Brittany Johnson & senior Melissa Martin photo by Alexandria Binford

Spor ts

Braden Albright What are your pre-game rituals?

I like to listen to my ipod and have 68 songs on a playlist.

October 9, 2008 - The Royal News - Page 23

senior SPOTLIGHT

How often do you practice outside of school?

I practice 3 hours on Sunday at Travis’s house on a sand court.

What is a quick and why is it so difficult?

It is a middle hit where you try to get a perfect set where you get everything perfect and the other team wasn’t expecting it. It has to be a certain height and the timing make it difficult.

What are your superstitions?

I don’t wash my jersey until we lose.

I Febreeze it so it won’t smell.

Do you eat anything specific before a game?

Before every home game we eat at Chick-Fil-A. What is your personal goal for the year?

To beat Dale because they are number one in the state and make it to regionals. We need to stay in second in the district to make it to regionals.

Have you had any successful hits this year?

We’ve only had a couple perfect quicks this year, but we’ve had some shoots.

What is a shoot?

A shoot is when you try to fake the blockers that you’re going middle but you set it lower and outside.

Are you planning on playing in college?

Yes but I don’t know where yet.

Maybe in Alabama, I lived there when I was 2.

The Prince George Foreign Language Adventurers stand outside the Palace of Versailles near Paris during their July trip. The group travels abroad usually every other year, but because of growing interest will travel again in the summer of 2009.

Contributed Photo photo by Taryn Langley

Sports

briefs

Girls field Hockey lost a tough match to district rival Thomas Dale , 2-0 on Monday, Oct. 6th.

After the 46-20 victory over Hopewell , the football team is tied with Dinwiddie for first place in the Central District .

Boys volleyball won 3 matches the first week of Oct. The team is in 2nd place and ranked 10th in the Central Region.

Upcoming Home Games

!

Football: 10/10 Meadowbrook 7:30 PM Royals --------your Field Hockey: 10/15 Meadowbrook 4:00 support PM --------Come Boys Volleyball: 10/14 Matoaca 7:15 PM

Field Hockey looks past the regular season and into the postseason pg. 18 photo by Alexandria Binford

Junior Megan Barglof and senior Sarah Lamb battle for the ball from a Colonial Heights player.