D the S F Commentator Vol. 62, No. 1 June 2014 Douglas S. Freeman High School Page 1 Henrico, Virginia 23229 Criswell Named PE Bright Retires after Teacher of the Year 42 Years at Freeman

PHOTO: ALISON EDDINS PHOTO: ALISON EDDINS Mrs. Criswell poses outside, where she spends much of her classroom time. Coach Bright, a Freeman employee for the past 44 years, works in his office.

Criswell, however. “At first “My junior year I taught man’s AD for over 40 clubs. He volunteers as Logan Harvey I was so scared of her… one class a week at one of Leah Dillard years, retired. This is his an assistant coach for the Online Editor but that didn’t last long,” the elementary schools and Sports Editor fifth year as the AD. wrestling team and often she said. my senior year…the rest The work of the AD is comes in to work on the "She expects a lot of her of my day every day was somewhat behind-the- weekends. There are 46 elementary students, and her students spent teaching physical After 44 years of full time scenes but hard nonethe- Coach Bright said that schools, 12 middle schools, get a lot out of her class," education at the local employment as a Freeman less. In the words of Bright, Freeman’s“remarkable” and nine high schools in said freshman Alex elementary school with the teacher, coach, and admin- ADs do “everything – it is Booster Club and PTA Henrico County-- all with Stopkey. physical education teacher istrator, Drew Bright will an all-encompassing job. parent network have made PE teachers-- yet only one Olivia also mentioned there,” said Criswell. retire in June. It would be interesting to his job easier. “I have been PE Teacher of the Year: that Mrs. Criswell would As a child, her parents At the age of 24, Bright write down all the things very lucky that our activi- Suzanne Criswell. ask about her family, her told her to find something began his career at Free- that I do in a day.” ties have been handled by “Every year the director hobbies, and what her that she would enjoy man in 1972. He knew “He is responsible for get- very strong leaders who of Health and Physical stresses were. “Compared waking up every morning nothing of Freeman when ting officials and lining up uphold effective Freeman Education sends out a to other teachers I have to do, so Mrs. Criswell’s he started, but he has nev- transportation, not just for traditions,” said Bright. ballot with every teacher had, Mrs. Criswell actually next step took her to er worked anywhere else athletics but for all school He admitted that al- who is a secondary teacher got to know me,” she said. Tuckahoe Middle School. since. activities. He definitely though change is always and every teacher who is She is not just a caring She was declared a “It has been my entire puts in more than 40 hours good, traditions and prov- an elementary teacher and person, but also a surplus teacher in 1987 adult life and entire profes- a week,” said girls volley- en system are always easier we vote as a department,” structured teacher. “She due to dropping student sional life,” he said. ball coach Gee Murphy. to maintain, especially as said Mrs. Criswell about always had something numbers, so she was Bright started as a US His- “Coach Bright has the the job of AD is becom- the voting process. planned for us, whether it transferred to Freeman. tory teacher, but through- greatest temperament ing increasingly difficult as She won by receiving the would be a specific game, Some three decades later, out his 37-year teaching when it comes to help- more activities and teams most votes out of everyone running, or stations,” Mrs. Criswell teaches four career he has taught every ing or backing off from are added to Freeman’s in the Health and PE Olivia said. regular classes per day, and social studies subject ex- involvement. He is in the collection. Department in Henrico Mrs. Criswell’s influence also the first all-year, fully cept Government. VHSL Hall of Fame for “This has become a very County. is one that stays with online health and PE class. During his first year at his many years as a coach, consuming job,” he said, Criswell attributed her win students even after they "[She] goes above and Freeman he was also the so with that kind of experi- “not just for me but for mainly to her becoming a finish their time with her. beyond her call of duty assistant coach for the ence he has a sense for the anybody – it’s both posi- trainer in Focused Fitness, Olivia said, “She always as a teacher. She has a wrestling team. needs of coaches,” Coach tive and negative that we where she instructed other said you only get one positive attitude and instills In 1973, Bright became Murphy said. run so many sports and so teachers about the new life so treat it well…even fitness in all her students... the head wrestling coach, Boys tennis coach Jeff many activities.” curriculum. though we seem to be very She is not only a valuable a position that he would Given also cited Bright’s Although Bright’s full- “I think also people see at different we are all similar member of the Freeman keep for 30 years. He value to coaches. He said time employment is com- meetings how passionate I in some way.” staff, but also to the whole holds the current record that Bright “gets the sched- ing to a close, he fully still am [after 35 years].” Mrs. Criswell’s teaching Henrico County PE team," for the most coaching ule together in the fall intends to keep up with Junior Olivia Humrich career started when she said Doug Clemens, PE wins in Virginia with 425 and the spring, and orga- Freeman events and to was a student of Mrs. was 14 years old teaching department chair. victories. Bright was also nizes all of the postpone- help in any way possible. Criswell’s last year. “She swimming lessons in Today, she said she has a the golf head coach for ments and makeups due to “I expect to be around, genuinely cared about me, Weston, Massachusetts— lot of students ask her why 20 years, starting with the weather.” I want to be around,” he and that is something that her hometown. This she chose the job of a PE 1982 season. Bright also coordinates said. “Freeman’s our fam- I have never experienced feeling of helping others teacher, to which her reply Bright became the Ac- all other student activities, ily…and I don’t plan to before,” said Olivia. encouraged her to take a always is, “I wouldn’t want tivities Director [Ain 2009 such as band, show choir, leave it.” This was not Olivia’s Teacher-Cadet-type class to do anything else.” when Jim Sangston, Free- awards assemblies, and first impression of Mrs. in high school. HCPS Implements Grading Policy Changes for 2014-15

The honors and AP weighting would like to work with the similar ideas about next year. Connor Glowacki will also not be retroactive. teacher to find a way to improve He said, “I am not expecting the 2014-15 Grading Scale This policy is being imple- her grades, it is the student’s re- work to be easier or harder, but I Opinions Editor Letter Percent mented in all Henrico County sponsibility to go to the teacher. do expect it to be easier to get a 4.0 Scale Schools and affects all students. After working with the teacher, better grade.” Grade Grade Aidan said he is concerned The senior Class of 2014 will not the student will then have the op- A+ 97-100 4.0 Students should prepare for a have any changes made to their portunity to take a retest. Again, about how colleges will view switch from an 8-point grading transcripts. it is the student’s responsibility to these policies. A 93-96 4.0 scale to a 10-point grading scale For students not graduating, take the initiative. Additionally, Mr. Payne said that certain at the start of the 2014 school transcripts, GPA, and class rank during the first semester, if a stu- scholarship sponsors might not A- 90-92 3.7 year. will be recalculated this summer dent receives a very low grade for consider the different grading B+ 87-89 The new grading scale ac- and made available to the Class either MP1 or MP2, the student scales of a county, and therefore 3.3 counts for three levels of a let- of 2015 in October. can exercise a one-time option of the switch to a 10-point system B 83-86 3.0 ter grade: either plus, neutral, or This policy is being introduced having the grade changed to a 55 could actually improve a stu- minus. These statuses determine to HCPS in order to put Henri- percent. This will allow the stu- dent’s scholarship applications. B- 80-82 2.7 how many points a student will co County on the same grading dent to be within the mathemati- Policy changes as large as the receive towards their GPA. With scale as other school systems. cal possibility of passing for the grading scale switch and reduced C+ 77-79 2.3 this new scale, honors classes In addition to this new grad- year if he/she demonstrates im- fail opportunities are the prod- C 73-76 2.0 will be weighted .5 and AP class- ing scale, there will be a failure provement in subsequent mark- ucts of numerous discussions es will be weighted 1.0. reduction opportunity given to ing periods,” she said. brought up by the Student Con- C- 70-72 1.7 These changes in the grading HCPS students. This is an op- “These opportunities are essen- gress representatives and other scale are retroactive. According portunity for students struggling tially a means to help students student, parent, and PTA groups, D+ 67-69 1.3 to the HCPS website, “all stu- during the first two marking pe- who struggle have a chance to as well as principals and other dent grades that are recorded in riods to have one of their first pass with more effort, rather interested parties . These discus- D 65-66 1.0 the student information system sions are researched and spread two marking period grades reach than less effort” said Steve F Below 65 0.0 for middle and high school class- a minimum of 55 percent. The Payne, English teacher. as a proposal to other groups in es (grades 6-12) will be converted intent is to minize circumstances Mr. Payne feels that this change the county. The proposal is re- to the new 10 point scale during where students have mathmati- brings HCPS up-to-date and fined during this process before portunity, and the policies in the summer of 2014.” cal impossiblity of passing after said, “everyone knows what ‘A’ it is finally submitted to the Hen- general, visit http://henrico.k12. One stipulation is that any the first semester. work or outstanding achieve- rico School Board to be rejected va.us/instruction/GradingPrac- failed classes will still be con- Principal Anne Poates said, ment looks like—that will not or accepted. tices.html. sidered failed; the retroactive “There is not a no-fail policy.” change on the rubrics.” For more specifics on the grad- change will not un-fail a student. “If a student fails a test and Junior Aidan Crenshaw has ing scale, reduced failure op- ews 2 N The Commentator

News in Brief: Student Engineers Set Sail at YMCA Tech Vets: Students in the Vetenarian Techni- cal Center at Hermitage High School recently visited the Richmond Metropolitan Zoo.

History in D.C.: Ms. Burgess’ Honors US History classes visist the nation’s capital on a school feild trip. The tour included multiple muse- ums and memorials.

Mr. DSF: June 7, 7 p.m. in the auditorium. Tickets will be sold June 4-6 in the cafeteria.

Speak Up 5K: The Speak PHOTOS: WEIDER ALVES Up 5k Race for Cameron Mr. Nicholson’s Engineering classes race cardboard boats in the YMCA pool. Gallagher will be held in Sept. Volunteers are needed. and finalized the design, adding win. To add even more fun to The students learned a valuable Madinah Stallworth anything we thought it needed to the project some students gave lesson about engineering: initial Senior Graduation: June News Editor be an effective boat.” said junior their boats crazy names, i.e. The design is often flawed. 12 at the Siegel Center. Walker Lawson, a member of Jacked Bicep. “Most of the boats fell part Graduation begins at 3. Mr. Nicholson’s Intro to Engi- The whole process took a cou- on the first go, except for about The combined choirs of neering class. ple weeks. The boats had to be three or four,” said Walker. Douglas S. Freeman will Mr. Nicholson’s Intro and Ad- vanced Engineering classes took “After that we had to plan out built, painted, scheduled at the “My boat was absolutely aw- be singing at the graduta- how much cardboard we were YMCA, and then raced. ful but I still got a 50 lb. piece of tion. engineering to new depths in April. going to need, along with who After trucking the boats over cardboard. It’s safe to say card- was going to bring in materials. to the YMCA in a U-Haul, board is not good for boating.” TSA: Arindam Gupta Students in groups of four engi- neered and assembled cardboard We were limited to cardboard, along with students’ trucks and said junior Chip Shover. won ninth placed for spray adhesive, duct tape, calk cars, the boats were taken to the Despite his boat not being Extemporaneous Presen- boats to race at the Tuckahoe YMCA pool for a school field and paint,” said Walker. YMCA for students to row from much of a success, Chip still had tation at the TSA State After assembling their boats, one side of the pool, to the other a great time. Confernce. Arindam trip. The purpose of the project was to gain insight into good the classes painted them in the side, and then back in the fastest “The most fun was getting to was also voted in as the art courtyard. time. have fun in a swimming pool full 2014-15 Parliamentarian structural design for vehicles, as well as good collaboration be- To add a bit of fun and novelty, “Everyone was really excited of cardboard,” said Chip. for the TSA State Execu- each group was asked to pres- to see if their boat would sup- Although many of the boats tive Council Team. Ethan tween fellow engineers. “We got together as a group ent a PowerPoint Presentation port two people inside it,” said were a flunk, most of the stu- Barlage and Connor on why their boat was going to Walker. dents still had a great time. Lankford took first place in the Technology Prob- lem Solving Team por- tion of the competition. The Technology Problem Change in Course Selection Solving Team will com- pete at the 2014 National Means Fewer Honors, but TSA Conference held at the Gaylord National Resort & Convention More AP Choices Center, National Harbor, Maryland/Washington D.C. from June 24- July dents have decided to opt for AP 1 2014. Madinah Stallworth Econ. We’re going to look at the News Editor numbers and see what we can Choir Acheivements: make work,” said Anne Poates, On the Spring field trip School Principal. Natalia Araujo won After course selection sheets Though AP Human Geogra- the Best Soloist Award were handed out, the Main Hall phy is the most talked about AP for Show Choir. Devin was filled with frantic voices of change, it is not the only AP Hatcher and Jared Scoot students eager to join AP Hu- course that is changing. won the Best Soloist man Geography. With the class Honors Physics has recently Award for Chamber/ now being opened to other stu- been terminated. However, in- Madrigal. Chris Echols dents (formerly opened to only stead of it being a school change, won the Best Soloist center students) everyone is the removal of Honors Phys- Award for Men’s Chorus. rushing to get a spot. ics has become a district-wide Julia Henry won the Best AP Human Geography’s new change. Soloist for Mixed Cho- availability to all students deals During this school year the rus. All of the Chorus with the removal of Regional courses of Conceptual Phys- groups recieved superior Studies. Regional Studies was ics, College Prep Physics, Hon- PHOTO: ALISON EDDINS scores. an Honors course that focused ors Physics, AP Physics B, and more on modern day organiza- AP Physics C: Mechanics were Social Studies Teacher Band Acheivements: tions/groups while AP Human available to students. Freeman Band won Geography focuses more on the “AP Physics 1 and AP Phys- overall Grand Champion development of societies and ics 2 together replace AP Physics Earns Virginia Lottery of the entire event on population growth. B. AP Physics 1 is designed to the Spring trip. Wind “Considering that my sister be a first year course, meaning ‘Super Teacher’ Award Ensemble, Concert Band, took AP Human Geography, I students do not need to take an- and the String Orchestra would say it’s pretty similar to other Physics course before tak- Robert Peck: Director of Leadership, Center for Government all won first place in their Regional Studies. Although, we ing APP1 (AP Physics 1),” said and Global Economics respective divisions. Jazz do learn some different stuff in Laura Casdorph, Secondary Sci- Band also won overall Regional Studies, such as: terror- ence Specialist of Henrico Coun- Q: What award did you receive? Jazz Champion of the ist groups and organizations,” ty Public Schools. A: The Virginia Lottery Super Teacher award. event. said junior Campbell Baskin. By removing Honors Physics, John Larkins, AP Human Ge- students now have the option of Q: Who nominated you for the award? New Associate Prin- ography and Regional Studies an easier course while still learn- A: Natalia Bell. cipal: Freeman will be teacher, has decided to get rid ing the important information. getting a new Associ- of the Honors Regional Studies “Adding both AP Physics 1 Q: What was it like having a camera crew come into your classroom? ate Principal, Michael course and replace it with AP and AP Physics 2 to this list A: Unnerving. I don’t know how to describe it. It was a little Massa, next year. Mr. Human Geography. would mean offering 7 differ- embarrassing but overall flattering. To be singled out for it felt Massa will be coming “Part of the factor is that center ent physics classes, which most odd from Godwin. sophomore kids had [the course] schools would not be able to sup- available to them and I wanted port. Also, AP Physics 1 is ap- Q: What does the award mean to you? AP Art History Classes to make it open to the rest of the proximately half of the content A: That a student nominated me for it. To have the student do Try to Make a Change: student body,” said Mr. Larkins. of a traditional honors physics the nomination means more coming from them. AP Art History students “I was really excited to take Re- course. If we offered both AP are currently working gional Studies because 1.) Lar- Physics 1 and honors Physics, Q: What was your favorite and least favorite part about receiving the on projects that seek kins teaches it and 2.) I thought students would probably find award? problems in the school it would be really interesting to that honors physics would be the A: That a student nominated me and the money doesn’t hurt. and create solutions see how it differs from Human harder course,” said Ms. Cas- My least favorite part is that it somehow singles out what I do to them. Some of the Geography,” said junior Rachel dorph. and doesn’t acknowledge the fact that my colleagues are doing projects include a Big Bracken. If students wish to still take an good work as well. I also don’t know if it is healthy to have one Brother, Big Sister pro- Not only will the course be- entry course to Physics, but not teacher nominated for an award when many teachers do great gram school wide. The come more accessible to the an AP, they still have the option things. program would give all entire student body, but it also of College Prep Physics. Honors incoming Freshmen the benefits more students. Current- Physics will no longer be offered Q: What do you plan to do with the $2,000 for classroom materials? opportunity to recieve ly Honors classes and APs are in Henrico County. A: I’m not sure yet. The common area gets used all the time not a sophomore, junior, or weighted the same, but that will One may wonder how the ter- just by center students so I would like to invest in that. Also new senior as a Big Brother or be changing next year. mination of a class comes about. tables for the center, book shelves, and I’m sure I will buy some Big Sister to show them “The GPA weight changes “It’s kind of subject by subject. unnecessary Post-it notes but mainly furniture. I actually might the ropes of high school. with the APs. The AP will get Physics is a change made by the let the faculty use the money for something they want in their Many of these plans are weighted more. The change is science community. As far as I classrooms. just sketches, but with the great for calculation of GPA and know, we were the only school right details the students college competition,” said Mr. that offered Regional Studies Q: Your innovative/new teaching style was honored: do you find that hope to make some of Larkins. anyway, so Mr. Larkins made the ironic because you teach based on the methods of Socrates? their programs possible. With such a high demand for suggestion to make the change A: I do find it ironic. I truly do not do anything that is innova- the class it has not yet been de- from Regional Studies to Human tive. I’m delighted, but all we do is read and ask questions, and The Commentator: termined who will be accepted Geography,” said Mrs. Poates. it’s not what I do every day, so I’m not doing anything new The student newspaper into the course. Although getting rid of these recieved first place in “I don’t think we’ll have this two classes has put some hiccups Q: Is there anyone you would like to thank? the American Scholastic much of a demand for it in the in people’s choice of courses A: Natalia certainly. I think it was incredibly thoughtful of her Press Assoication. The future. I think it’s high this year next year, the school is working and also the Virginia Lottery, because the money that they use competition grades high because this is the first time we’re hard to accommodate everyone goes back into public schools. I also get office supplies from a school paper quality offering it. We’re going to look at so that everyone can have an en- group called The Supply Room Company so I would like to and creativity. the numbers and see if some stu- joyable year. thank them as well. pinions The Commentator O 3 How to Get an “A” in School Spirit; Rebel Rumble 2.0 excited, and make football games to be role models for the new fresh- as possible. We are the Kings and tential we need to be the best senior something to look forward to this man by coming to school events – Queens of the school – and we need class yet – with a new “Rebel Man” fall. Wear your jerseys with pride on that’s how you obtain any sort of to act like it. At the games, we need mascot to help us cheer on our fel- game day, and be quick to offer your “cool-ness.” Take advantage of the to wear our finest spirit attire and low classmates. practice jersey up for others to wear. opportunity to put yourselves out show the other grades what it’s like Band There is something special about there and embrace the Rebel in you to have true Rebel Pride. Even some- Freeman loves you. So why not seeing the school getting pumped in front of the newbies. The cheers thing simple like standing up at bas- play more music? There are re- along with the team, so maybe prac- and chants are meant to be fun; don’t ketball games (no matter how many quests for some new tunes: maybe tice some pep rally speeches for next be dead space in the stands by not people show up) can depict how some modern music mixed in with season that are actually hype… participating. solid our student section is. our traditional favorites. Whether Cheerleaders Class of 2016 Just stand up. that happens or not, keep playing Smile like you mean it. We know Rising juniors, you are upperclass- Standing silently in the stands during the 3rd Quarter in front of Mary Rockwell that not every game is going to be men, so that means you are one step slightly confused during a game is our student section because it needs the best, but you can still try to make closer to royalty – but you are not not my favorite way to spend a Fri- to continue. Oh, and can the Pep Opinions Editor us believe that you are proud to be there yet. day night. To eliminate this prob- Band be a real thing for basketball a Rebel. Be the epitome of school However, that does not mean that lem, communication will be key. season next year? Freeman’s school pride. And, if you can, throw more you can slack off and think that the Next year our Whiteboard will spirit would definitely get a boost of Everyone likes for their grades stuff in the stands: T-shirts, foot- seniors are the only motivators. It have a crucial spot in the section, let- extra credit for that one. to improve. But grades don’t just balls, confetti, children, etc. It defi- is important to consistently come ting people know what is going on. Parents/Teachers improve on their own. In order nitely gets the crowd going. to the games dressed up abiding Let’s not spend another football or Keep it up. for Freeman to get an overall A in Student Section by the theme. You can even try to basketball game in silence…We can ______school spirit next year, the entire stu- Last year we were overpowered in outdo the seniors’ spirit (with the still have fun regardless of the score! dent section should be a source of noise and spirit by our parents. Our key word: try). Regardless, you Our spirit weeks and themes for We are Rebels, and we are students Rebel Pride. parents. Next year that simply cannot have two grades behind you that are games should be well-known and en- together, not separated. Each class Here is what needs to happen next happen. We need to be loud, and in watching. Make it count. joyable … not a mysterious, “What’s brings a little bit of their own char- year to make the grade. order to do this, we need people that Class of 2015 today’s theme again” type of deal. acter to the Freeman Family, so why ______are excited – and a lot of them. Next year we have an obligation The student section should look put don’t we allow everyone to show Football Team Class of 2017 to make school spirit a priority. We together and crazy fantastic. We it? If everything goes as planned, Last fall your season was legend- Rising sophomores, I know you cannot let any opportunity pass. should be proud of how we look. I know we will score high in school ary with a 10-2 record. The rising think you’re cool, and I’m sure you This is our final year in high school, We want the freshmen to love us spirit next year. seniors have to be ready to take the are (though not as cool as juniors or and we want to remember it with like we loved the seniors when we And all A’s are something to be new leadership roles, keep everyone seniors, of course), but your job is as few “coulda, shoulda, wouldas!” were freshmen. We have all the po- proud of. Hookup Hot-Spots: Because True Love Has No Boundaries

Carissa Campbell Opinions Editor

Photos: Alison Eddins Dear Freeman couples, In the hallways Administration Here is some advice to those The halls are the most accessible parts of our school. We use them to transi- Our administrators work hard every day to protect the individuals in the who have had a difficult time tion to classes and and they offer plenty of space for extracurriculars, includ- school. The Code of Conduct states en loco parentis, which means that the connecting with their signifi- ing kissing. Everyone on their way to class simply does not worry about what teachers and administrators are our parents during the school day. If you cant other during school hours is going on around them. I am happy to move out of the way for you two, makeout in front of your parents, then you definitely can do it in front of ad- as is everyone else. Also, do not let the PDA posters bother you two; better ministrators! Go ahead and kiss, the administrators want you too! Although and for all those couples who yet, kiss right in front of them and show them whose boss. Remember: your they do not offer bodyguard services, they will make sure you and your part- are searching for a location to affection for one another is more important than what others think. ner are safe when you decide to kiss throughout the school day. express their affection. From the halls to the stairs, there are many opportunities to reunite with your mate and make every minute of it count. High school is a place where the opportunities for relationships thrive. So while you are one your way to meet up, consider these featured locations around our school. It is time that we ulitlize every part of Freeman. I have scoped out these places for you, so please make sure to use them. I don’t always kiss my boyfriend in the hall, but when In the stairwells As the bell rings I do, I prefer right in the middle You can also avoid exposure by secluding yourselves to the stairwells, though Lastly, if you two are in a race to meet up before class, you have exactly of the hall. they may get a little busy. Remember that stairwells are a two way street. This five minutes. These five minutes are critical; you will not see each other for Besides, what else would you means that you two should move directly to the center between the two lanes another 45 minutes. To avoid separation anxiety, it is important that you two expect teenage couples to do in to avoid getting hit. Don’t worry, you will not be in anyone’s way and your see each other before the bell rings. Even at the risk of tardiness, a kiss is a the halls? friends can cheer y’all on as they pass by. There are many stairwells in this lot more worthy of your time than getting to class. I recommend getting at Best of Luck, school, so there are many ways to mix it up a bit during school. The least least one rep in before the bells ring. The teachers will understand that you Carissa Campbell populated stairwell is the one that connects the second floor to the annex and two are utilizing the five minutes to its full potential and will not make you green acres. I give two thumbs up for this location. go to the tardy desk. If they do, this only adds more time to spend together!

Commentator Staff Enhance Your Summer Experience Editors-in-Chief with work to do. you spend less time worrying about Summer is our three months of it, and then you have more time to Eric Asplund and Sarah Ashman freedom from the monotonous forc- think about summer. Next thing you Online Editor Design Editor es of school bells, grade averages, know summer feels like it is lasting and college expectations; everyone longer. Finally, you can reflect on Logan Harvey Alex Gilliam deserves a summer break, students how awesome this advice was and Photography Editors and faculty alike. give me a fist bump. Alison Eddins and Ted Scherer So it is understandable that any- And the thing is summer assign- one would loathe any unwanted re- ments are not bad things; the work News Editors Opinions Editors quirements given during a time that is good for you (the best medicine is Madinah Stallworth Mary Rockwell is supposed to be a break, but keep bitter I suppose). Alison Eddins Carissa Campbell in mind: chances are that, sooner There are legitimate studies that Andrew Oostdyk Connor Glowacki or later, integrity, parents, or simple indicate taking three months away Features Editors Sports Editors fear of failing an assignment will from school actually makes it harder Frances Leake Leah Dillard Connor Glowacki compel you to finish your summer to start school again in the fall be- Annie Spivey Matthew Heinicke-Peart Opinions Editor work. cause students will forget things and Trent McCaffrey Hayley Fogleman And if you don’t do the assign- acclimatize to their summer style of Luke Twente ments at all, you will face the aca- living; summer assignments lessen Arts and Entertainment Special Features This summer, when you look in demic consequences and spend the this degradation of academic effec- Editors Editors terror at that pile of books stacked rest of the marking period trying to tiveness. Shannon McCarthy Caroline Forrest raise your grades. This summer, endeavor to give Sebastian Hughes up on your nightstand—you know, This means, in essence, that all yourself a head start and finsih Copy Editors the ones slowly accumulating a layer Caroline Forrest Alex Gilliam of dust deep enough to hide fossils the time you spent binge-watching what you least want to do first and Leah Dillard Connor Glowacki from the Paleozoic Era. television series was only delaying moving down the list from there in Seriously though, you probably your inevitable demise at the papery a timely fashion; this way the work Staff Advisor had upwards of three months to fin- hands of a 250 page book and sum- only gets easier and it is over faster. Lauren Lombard ish two books, online Physical Edu- mary paper. The only excuses I will accept cation, AP summer assignments, or I don’t know about you, but I for not doing this is if you either The Commentator is a publication of a combination of the three. would rather finish my break sitting sprained your funny bone during a Douglas Southall Freeman High School There is plenty of time to finish on a mountain overlooking a lake boxing match with a Tyrannosau- your work even after you factor in than with a mountain of paper sit- rus Rex or detained by People for Principal: Anne Poates vacations, summer jobs, college ting on me as I lay face down on the the Ethical Treatment of Animals 8701 Three Chopt Rd. Henrico, Virginia 23229 applications, sports practice, in- floor. (PETA). http://schools.henrico.k12.va.us/freeman/ ternships, and watching Game of Moral of the story: getting the hard Don’t get me wrong, summer is Phone: (804) 673-3700 Thrones… stuff out of the way early during the a great time to relax; to make war [email protected] Well, okay, students are expected summer could dramatically improve with teenage angst, or cultivate the Letters to the editor are encouraged. They must be signed before they can be your overall vacation returns. friendships around you. printed. Because of variety and space, only a limited number of letters can to do a few more things than we be published. The Commentator reserves the right not to print a letter. would ideally like; in fact, I myself Think about it. I am just saying, a little planning complain to no end when saddled Once the school work is done, goes a long way. eatures 4 F The Commentator So You Think You Can Tanzen? Sophomore Dancer Competes in Traditional German Performance

lindlers, and tional German attire. Frances Leake schuhplattlers. “The guys wear Liederhosen Features Editor “Schuh- and the girls wear Dirndls,” he plattlers are said. basically the Students from other high “I do what is called Bavarian males in a schools such as Tucker are also dancing; it’s mostly figure danc- circle slapping involved. ing with certain variations,” said their shoes “The group consists mostly of sophomore Collin Britton as he and thighs. high school and college students, performed a short sequence of Lindlers are but there are a wide range of complex stomps and leg move- dances be- ages involved. In fact, the former ments. tween a guy German teacher from Tuckahoe Collin has been dancing since and a girl Middle, Sandra Hurdlebrink par- he was ten years old, and attri- where they ticipates,” he said. butes his involvement with the make shapes The group was originally start- German group to his mom. with their arms ed at Tucker in the 1980’s, and “My mom was an original for the most continues to draw members from member of the dancing group, part,” he said. all over the Richmond area. Col- and she got the rest of my fam- “Our group is lin stressed that newcomers are ily involved.” Collin’s sister, Au- very laid back always welcome. drey Britton, is also involved in so we dance “We are always looking for the group. While in the army, she with whomev- more people to join our group, was stationed in Germany for a er we want to and it is completely free, and a year and a half. be our partner lot of fun,” he said. PHOTO: COLLIN BRITTON for that dance,” Collin has thoroughly enjoyed The group meets on the second Collin performs the schuhplattler with his group in traditional costume. and last Friday of every month he said. his experience with the group thus far, and plans to continue at the Three Chopt Presbyterian Ale house and have such a great groups perform for a panel of The type of music that coin- his involvement. church. They also participate in time,” Collin said. judges and then are scored, just cides with these dances is Polka “Once I finish high school, I Oktoberfest at the Capital Ale This group is also able to par- like you may have seen on a and Waltz, but the music they plan to continue with German House in downtown Richmond. ticipate in Gau Fest, which is a dancing competition on televi- dance to doesn’t have a “specific dancing in college, so if I go fur- “Oktoberfest is absolutely my dancing competition that only sion,” Collin said. name,” Collin said. ther away, hopefully I will still be favorite part of being in this happens every three years. The group performs three main As far as costumes go, mem- able to find another group!” he group. We get to party at Capital “Basically all of the dancing types of dance: figure dances, bers of the group stick to tradi- said smiling. Juniors Earn Science Fair Honors A Day in the Life of:

Mia Harris Staff Writer

“We have been a team for three years” said junior Jack Lohm- ann concerning his friend and science partner junior Colin Fen- ster. This year Jack and Colin placed second in the Metro Rich- mond Science Fair in the Envi- ronmental Science category, al- though this will not be first time they have won a “special award.” Previously they have won 5 other history and science awards. The Metro Richmond Science Fair took place at Clover Hill PHOTO: COLIN FENSTER High School Juniors Jack Lohman and Colin Fenster stand in front of their “We created a dual-core nitrate presentation at the Metro- Richmond Science Fair. filtration system. The system ies and both actively seek to be Although Jack and Colin are employed the denitrifying prop- not completely sure of their ca- erties of methanol and the pol- excellent contributors to class discussion” said history teacher reer plans, they both hope to lutant absorption ability of free- pursue careers that incorporate Milser Dubon-Arita floating aquatic macrophytes” Laura Jones. “While Jack and Colin’s projects both environmental science and said Colin. “Nitrate-laden water public policy. was treated with methanol to re- are always scientifically valid, their presentation skills are awe- Shortly after their success at the move the nitrates and then sub- Metro Richmond Science Fair, sequently pumped through the some, and they really impress the judges with their poise” said Jack Colin and Jack also placed in the anoxic chamber of the system. Virginia Junior Academy of Sci- Following the nitrate removal, and Colin’s sponsor and Biology teacher Carol Campfield. ence, which will allow them to the water was pumped through compete in the American Junior an aerobic chamber with free- The Competition had a large amount of people competing Academy of Science and the PHOTO: TED SCHERER floating aquatic macrophytes to American Association for the employ methanol removal and from all over the state: “Several hundred people are admitted, Advancement of Science in San subsequent crop yield” Colin Jose, California. 7:30- Sophomore Milser wakes up, time to start preparing continued. and the acceptance rate is about 50 percent. We are competing According to Colin, he and After completing their paper, Jack did not have much time Colin and Jack submitted their against people from all over the for a day that’ “way too long.” state. At each event there are to celebrate their win because paper to the Metro Richmond they had to begin planning and Science Fair and the Virginia probably several hundred peo- 8:15- Eats breakfast, pancakes as usual. ple” said Jack. perfecting their project for the Academy of Science. Virginia Junior Academy of Sci- The title of their project is: According to Jack, he and Co- 8:22- Catches the bus just in the nick of time. lin have won a couple thousand ence. Utilizing Methanol-Enhanced The win was especially thrilling Denitrification and Macrophytic dollars over the span of a couple years. for Colin: “I was fairly excited, 8:50- Gets to school, goes straight to the cafeteria to Pollutant Absorbtion in a Novel especially since I knew we had Multicore Nitrate Filtration Sys- They presented their research on their experiment, and a 20 clinched a coveted spot at the catch up with friends. tem to Aid in Marine Dentirifi- Virginia Junior Academy of Sci- cation Efforts. Their project is page research paper enumerating all of their findings. ence” said Colin. 9:00- Time to get sweaty in Gym. unique because they are the first The Virginia Junior Academy ones to create a dual-core sys- They began their research for this project last June, began writ- of Science was different from the 9:55- Science with Mr. Foltz and his daily comedies. tem with “pollutant absorption Metro Richmond Science Fair on the end to produce crop yield ing the paper accompanying the project in the fall, and started Awards because it required a - Gets through class- almost time for lunch… and remove harmful pollutants” PowerPoint presentation rather 10-12 said Colin. testing in the winter. According to Colin, testing the project took than the traditional poster. It More specifically their research was also a three day fair com- 12:05- Lunch! Eats the normal taco salad has fun “just was based on the research of nearly 15 hours because of their time requirements for adequate pared to the one day Metro Rich- harmful algae in the Chesapeake mond Fair. chillin.” Bay. “The most pressing issue is denitrificaiton. “It’s difficult to develop an During this competition Co- in the Chesapeake Bay: Excess lin and Jack based their project 1:19- Pretends to listen while zoning out in French class. nitrogen stimulates the growth idea for applicability. We also want to do something where we more on “environment ecology of algae, which both blocks the rather than system setup” said water column and consumes ox- can get a clear result… which is 2:30- History and daily fashion talk with Ms. Jones. tricky because you have to find a Colin. ygen as it grows and decompos- Specifically Colin and Jack won es. The resulting dead zones kill happy medium” said Jack. It’s 3:15- Makes food in Foods and Wellness. tough to develop a new idea and VAS Best Research Paper Pre- off organisms, destroying local sentation and the Ertle Thomp- ecosystems and the communities find something that has no previ- 4- Rides the bus home. ous research” Jack continued. son Memorial Endowment. that depend on them” said Jack. “The awards ceremony, which Colin and Jack are unique in On the day of the fair, Colin and Jack did not have enough took place the morning after we 4:30- Grabs a quick snack and goes to the gym right away. the fact that they are one of the presented, was particularly thrill- few teams who competed in the space, and they had to improvise by displaying their paper, figures, ing because, due to the tough 6- Comes home, plays with four year old brother and Metro Richmond Science Fair competition at VJAS, we had not Awards. Colin and Jack have and photos on the chairs beneath the display. expected to be the top winners at hangs out with sister, if she’s in the mood. had a love for Science since the entire event” said Jack. MoodyMiddle School. According to Colin, the most “Our science teacher… Ms. memorable part of the day was “The most memorable part of 7- Contemplates whether she wants to eat dinner. Mitchell, inspired in us a love for presenting to the director of the the day was when they called our science” said Colin. They have Henrico County Water Recla- names—we weren't expecting to 9- Homework/Facebook/trying to stay awake. also been working on projects to- mation Facility, because he is re- win because we didn't know that gether such as this since the 7th sponsible for implementing tasks they gave the award to teams... 10:30- Lights out- she’s all about sleep. grade. similar to those of Colin and both Jack’s and my jaws dropped “They meet each challenge Jack; he was very knowledgeable when they called our names” with enthusiasm. They are in- about the topic, compared to said Colin. credibly dedicated to their stud- some of the other judges. eatures The Commentator F 5 Mr. Q&A: DSF Asher “Mr. Roth” Ackman Grade 12 Do you take inspiration from previous Mr. DSF candidates? Asher: “I do. Every person who has done Mr. DSF before me that has done a talent that they have no business doing.”

What is your talent? Asher: “Now why would I tell you that?! The other entrants might steal my idea. I will give you a hint though...it has sparkles, Shakira, telling untruths in a pleasing manner, and kinesthetics.”

PHOTO: CARTER SMILEY Joe “Mr. Scotland” Burek Ms. Smiley and Mr. Reilly stop for a picture on the beach after their engagement. Grade 11

What’s the biggest risk you’re going to take? Faculty to Wed Joe: “My pride and dignity.” What made you want to participate in Smiley and Reilly, a Dynamic Duo Mr. DSF? dent and faculty member loves the congratulations from them. Joe: “I had heard it was the one place Frances Leake Ms. Smiley, it’s nice to know I Also, letting them know that where being stupid was socially accepted.” picked a good future wife. Get- they would not be invited to the What made you choose your stage name? Features Editor ting to see her anytime I want wedding,” he said. Joe: “I needed to justify having a plaid skirt.” throughout the day doesn’t hurt As of right now, Miss Smiley After two and a half years of either,” he said. said that the wedding is tenta- dating, Latin teacher Carter Smi- Josh proposed while on their tively scheduled for the end of Robert “Mr. Hidden Talent” Dillard ley and TST Josh Reilly got en- spring break vacation of this February or early March of next Grade 12 gaged on April 15th in Riviera year. year. She hopes that they will be Maya Mexico. Miss Smiley and “It completely caught me off able to book the Bolling Haxall What is an inspirational quote you’d like to Mr. Reilly first met in the halls of guard, I was really hungry so I House in downtown Richmond share with all future generations? DSF. kept asking him if we could go for the venue. Robert: “Dare to be different, stray away “Our mutual friend, who is to dinner but he kept insisting Aside from the excitement of from the bean boots, vineyard vines, and actually the TST at Godwin, that we go get our picture taken. engagement, a concern for many Starbucks and be an individual.” told us that we should meet each I got really frustrated so was so of Miss Smiley’s students has other, so we did!” Ms. Smiley surprised when he got down on been the potential name change. said. one knee,” she said. “I will take Smiley as my maid- What message would you like to give your competition? Miss Smiley said that while Ms. Smiley teaches Latin I-V en name and Reilly as my last Robert: “Watch out, I’m not one to be taken lightly.” she has only known one other and said that the most special name. I know this is upsetting “teacher couple,” from her days part of her engagement was get- for my students that have had as a student at Godwin High ting to inform her students of the me for three or four years, but I School, she certainly has enjoyed event. think Carter Smiley Reilly has a Pete “Mr. Brightside” Humble the convenience of working in “My favorite students to tell nice ring to it!” she said. Grade 10 the same location as her signifi- were my AP and Latin IV class- Another concern of students cant other. es in the morning since I have was whether or not other DSF “The best part of dating some- taught them the longest. In my faculty members would be at- What’s your message to the student body? one who also works at Freeman second period I said something tending the wedding. Pete: “Respect” is being able to stop by on my like ‘I hope everyone had a great “That will be up to the future What is your talent? way to the main office to have spring break, because I did!’ as I Mrs. Carter Smiley Reilly,” Josh Pete: “My swag.” a quick chat and see him during flashed the ring to them all,” she said. What is the biggest risk you are going to take? the day, although I don’t do that said. “There will definitely be some Pete: “Going out there and leaving it all on the stage.” much anymore now that we have “They all cheered and congrat- faculty members there,” Miss been a couple for a while,” she ulated me, so it was a truly mem- Smiley said. said, laughing. orable and special moment,” she Amidst all of the excitement, Josh has also enjoyed this experi- said. it is safe to say that Freeman is Will “Mr. Señor Peterson” Humble ence. Josh also enjoyed the experi- thrilled to welcome the newest “For me, the best part is seeing ence of telling his students. husband-wife-teacher duo. Grade 12 and hearing how much every stu- “I loved all the smiles and What’s your talent? Will: “I can fit 100 blueberries in my mouth, but I will probably do some magic tricks.” Can You Spell V-I-C-T-O-R-Y? What is an inspirational quote you’d like to “The best thing to improve share with all future generations? scores is to learn all of the two Will: “One should visit the zoo as often as possible. It’s really letter words in the English lan- cool. I mean, have you ever seen a lion? Didn’t think so. It’s guage,” Mr. Peck said. enlightening.” Players kept the score them- selves, competing with their op- ponents at whatever time they Charles “Mr. Selrahc” McClung deemed most convenient. The Grade 12 games are limited to 50 minutes. What grade are you in? All the players were allowed Charles: “I’m in Algebra II.” were their own minds – cheat Are you going to bring a good luck charm? sheets were strictly forbidden. Charles: “I sure hope so. Mrs. Crouch Tournament participants have said she would go.” PHOTO: SHANNON MCCARTHY wholly enjoyed their Scrabble What made you want to participate in Mr. McLain Faett and Ben Fabian battle it out in the final. Tournament experience. DSF? “I’m more a casual player, but Charles: “I once had a dog with 3 legs.” people signed up, so we had to it’s still a lot of fun, and you do Mary Rockwell have a play in,” Mr. Peck said. end up learning a lot of different Opinions Editor & The massive bracket in the Cen- words just by playing,” said final Ashwin “Ash Money” Murali Annie Spivey ter containing the names of 64 four competitor Tom Jacobs. Grade 12 competitors documented the re- Features Editor “I am proud of everyone who What made you want to participate in Mr. DSF? sults of each match leading up to participated in the tournament Ashwin: “Last year when I first thought The bracket is ready. The play- the finals on May 30. even if they had never played about doing it, someone told me Hips Don’t ers are pumped up for game All standard rules, as defined before. It was fun to watch the Lie was a part of our dance routine and I time. The letter pieces for the by the Official Scrabble Players school come together over Scrab- was not about to let a bunch of guys dance- boards are assembled … Dictionary, were in effect. ble,” said McLain. my favorite song without me. They weren’t Instead of March Madness, Depending on the player, tour- The end of the school year is lying.” May Mayhem is the focus, but nament preparation was varied. unique. When students begin to What is something fun that not many people know about you? the month is absorbed by a game “Knowing a lot of the two let- slack and immerse themselves Ashwin: “I accidentally took a knitting class in sixth grade other than basketball. Freeman’s ter words has definitely helped. in imminent fantasies of sum- called ‘Warm Laps,’ misreading it as ‘Warm-Up Laps’ and unique Scrabble Tournament I concentrate on the short game mer, the Scrabble tournament thinking it was exercise related. Needless to say, I’ve read the tradition is catching the attention more than making long words,” provides some free (and educa- fine print ever since.” of students this spring. said winner McLain Faett. tional) entertainment. Scrabble is a popular word Students weren’t the only ones “I think the tournament’s value game in which players score enjoying the Scrabble craze. is two-fold. One, it gives people Asher “Mr. Pizza Crust” Thornton points by strategically placing “I’ve played in the Scrabble something to pay attention to at letter tiles onto a board to earn tournament since I came to Free- the end of the school year. When Grade 12 the highest number of points. man. I look forward to it every people are quitting, there is a year,” said history teacher and The tournament is approach- surprising amount of support for What do you think people will enjoy most ing its fourth year, and founder runner up Ben Fabian. the Scrabble tournament. An- about your performance? of the tournament, government Certain tactics and tips were other advantage is that, as geeky Asher: “What I want people to take from and ethics teacher Rob Peck, has provided on lists stationed right as it is, it is nice to see people get my performance is that nobody’s perfect. been pleasantly surprised at the next to the bracket in the Center. excited about something nerdy. You live and you learn, again and again Special tricks to get a “triple” until you get it right. I realize that this doesn’t answer your game’s popularity at Freeman Scrabble stretches your brain, question in the slightest, but it’s the way she goes.” over the past few years. were listed with various words to and it’s as much as recognizing “I thought it would be a fun heighten scores. Even the most what is on the rack as much as it Are you going to bring a good luck charm? idea, so I bought eleven or twelve miniscule words like “qi” or “ar” is about playing the words on the Asher: “I don’t believe in luck. Except Lucky Charms... Scrabble boards. I only assumed could get the player to victory. board,” Mr. Peck said. those are definitely real. I might bring some Lucky Charms that a handful of people would Mr. Peck had some advice of No matter how you wish to for good luck.” sign up. But instead a hundred his own to share with the players. describe it, the Scrabble tourna- ment is just too much for words. 6 Special Features 7

The Happy Days of Hannah Beyblades: Let It Rip! Silly Bandz Sensation

Let’s have a show of nah Montana. Assisting Beyblades was a game the television series. In Do you remember what them online; however, hands: who hasn’t said with concealing Miley’s developed in tandem the game, the players— were you wearing in May Croak was not the first “Nobody’s perfect, I fame are her partners in with a Japanese manga generally a duel between 2010? Were countless to conceive the idea of gotta work it” or “Say crime and best friends series called “Beyblade” two, though other com- Silly Bandz stretched colorfully shaped rubber whaaaaatt?” at least Lilly Truscott (Emily Os- (also Bakuten Shuto binations are available— across your forearm? bands – a Japanese de- once in their child- ment) and Oliver Oken Beiburedo) that aired each have a ripcord Whether the Silly Bandz sign team called Yumiko hood? Everyone knows (Mitchell Musso). The in America on Cartoon launcher used to start fad crossed your path or Ohashi was. Within no where these interjections first episode, aired on Network. In the series, spinning the beyblade not, it was likely one of time, other companies come from, regardless March 24, 2006, kicks a team of protagonists in an bowled-out arena the most famous, and began marketing Silly of whether you admit off Miley’s many adven- used the beyblades, in- known as a Beystadium. short-lived, sensations of Bandz spin-offs: Logo it or not. For those who tures. Between the years tricate and almost living The beyblades will spin adolescence. Silly Bandz Bandz, Zany Bandz, and were not enraptured by 2006 and 2011, “Han- spinning tops, to battle rapidly and knock into are elastic wristbands Cool Bandz. Currently, “Hannah Montana,” it nah Montana” and the other groups or enemies one another until one of that come in thousands the Silly Bandz empire is about Miley Stewart cast won several awards (and of course, these pro- them falls over, declaring of sizes, shapes, and de- has expanded to ear- (Miley Cyrus), a normal from the Kids’ Choice tagonists saved the world the last remaining bey- signs. Such include ani- ing, bracelets, rings, and Californian teenager bat- Awards and Teen Choice on more than one occa- blade as the winner. Bey- mals, princesses, palm “ouchies” (a.k.a band- tling the glorious ups and Awards. It also gave the sion). The game itself blades: Let it Rip! trees, guitars, letters, and aids). The Silly Bandz downs of adolescence Disney Channel its high- was a merchandise of so many more. They reign as declined over the photo: Mary rockwell photo: Leah Dillard and her undercover star- est ratings. Whether you even come in One Direc- last four years, probably photo: caroline forrest dom. This classic Dis- regret viewing “Hannah “I remember needing to have them all [Beyblades], so I could brag to “Oh my gosh! They were really fun at the tion, Justin Bieber, Kim because many schools ney Channel show set in Montana” or not, it re- nationwide banned the “I wanted to be Hannah Montana- she was Kardashian, and Angry Malibu follows Miley’s mains in this generation’s my friends. The actual game was quite underwhelming” time. It was fun to mix and match and to buy Birds themed bracelets. elastic “playground sta- my favorite thing. I would’ve cried and gone challenges of juggling memory as source of - Alejandro Brown (junior) different ones.” - Miles Casey (freshman) In 2008, Robert Croak tus symbol” (adage.com) to Heaven if I could’ve gone to one of her the duality of her life as silly but enjoyable enter- invented these best-sell- because trading of these concerts.” - Jemma Mograbi (junior) the pop sensation Han- tainment. ers and began marketing collectibles was a distrac- tion in class. A Club Penguin Comeback? Buy It Now on VHS!

Kids fell in love with in switching to the new Childhood memories of recordings of their fa- Club Penguin in 2005 generation and has not seem almost incom- vorite TV shows, movies, when Disney released died out. Disney still plete with Video Home football games, or home- the Massively Multi- gives promotions for the System, or VHS, tapes. videos. However, with player Online Role Play- site, and does a fantastic VHS’s were the pre-DVR the beginning of DVDs ing Game, or MMOR- job of making it a safe 10 Th ings technology of the 1990s VHS tapes have become PG. Those that signed place for kids online, like and early 2000s.From a distant memory. The up could pick different monitoring for profanity the struggles of accident- format still lives on as a colored penguins and and banning inappropri- ly taping over another reference in the popu- use it for various activi- ate usernames. It seems movie or the tape being lar card game “Cards ties, such as collecting as though the now young impossibly tangled, this Against Humanity” or in coins to buy digital ac- adults think the site died video format holds a spe- attics around America, cessories. In 2007, the out once they matured, from cial place in the hearts of but perhaps VHSs will many “90s kids.” Many remain a symbol of pre- site had about 30 mil- but in actuality has only photo: caroline forrest lion accounts, and as of grown strong as the a-household had stacks disc recordings. July 2013, there are now younger generation be- 200 million registered come more friendly with photo: www.clubpenguin.com accounts. The site has online gaming. “I just thought the chat section was funny. I also “I still have all my old tapes and watch them semi-regularly or when I’m been largely successful liked playing this jet pack game on it.” 10 Ye a r s home sick from school.” - Caroline Gravely (sophomore) - Prerna Kandasamy (junior) The Heyday of Heelys Ago Waning World of Webkinz Heelys: the lazy shoes. lights are not enough to These shoes, mainly seize your attention, the If you were a kid in the early 2000s. This de- popular in the early removable wheels even the mid-2000s, you most scription makes it sound 2000s, appear to be a come in various colors likely owned a Webkinz. boring, but the website pair of normal sneakers and patterns. The price The virtual world that was anything but. Users but – surprise! – a hidden for a pair of Heelys at the Remember the days when when came to life in the form of were able to play games, wheel is nestled in the brand’s website ranges stuffed animals, Webkinz buy and expand houses, heel. Just like with roller between $50 and $70 but you actually had time to rivaled Beanie Babies in create awesome fashions, skates and skateboards, Amazon has them for as their popularity. Each and communicate with there are tricks like spins, low as $29.99. Regard- play after school? toy came with its own friends. During the in- going backwards, grinds, less of how fun these special code that allowed fancy of the Internet, the and jumps. Heelys come wheeled shoes sound, its owners to go online website was at its peak. in numerous styles, col- some towns have banned and explore the world of Today, Webkinz are a ors, and some even have them because of safety Webkinz. Launched on distant thought of the two wheels. Some de- precautions. While safe- Contributers: photo: caroline forrest April 29, 2005 (otherwise past. Retailers advertise photo: yearbook signs resemble Vans and ty gear is recommended, known as Webkinz day), the toys with constant one design called the they are not necessary to Caroline Forrest, Sebastian Hughes, “I always thought it was the best thing in the the website functioned sales (50 percent off, two Bolt Plus X2 has blink- fully relish your Heelys world when I was able to go shopping for a new as a gateway to running for $5, etcetera). Web- “[Heelys] were sweet ... They made ing lights. If flashing experience. Shannon McCarthy, Connor Glowacki your own household. kinz.com is still running, grocery shopping very fun. Webkinz at Hallmark or the Ben Franklin Craft With 490 toys available, but its memory is a com- - David Harris (junior) Store. ”- Gina Borrero (sophomore) Webkinz was one of the mon one shared through most sought-after toys in our generation. After a While Croc-odile Bye-Bye Blockbuster Oh, the Days of Olsen In regards to shoes, of a Quebec company Oh the days of the fered severe losses and What ever happened House, the twins began pain is beauty. However, named Foam Creations. DVD, or even the days eventually filed for bank- to predictability, the to star in home movies the opposite is true for Like any popular item of the VHS. Anybody ruptcy on Sept. 23, 2010. milk man, the paper that kids loved to own, a type of “foam clog” that can barely last on not know what a VHS Under the new owner- boy, or evening T.V.? ranging from mysteries called Crocs. These ca- stores’ shelves, there is? Blockbuster used to ship of Dish Network, This theme song prob- to Halloween features. sual shoes were com- were Crocs wannabes: capitalize on being the stores by the hundreds ably played through As the twins grew older, fortable and versatile “croc-offs”. Crocs have only way to get the latest began to close. In Nov. almost every house in they continued to work but hardly fashionable. morphed into trendier and the oldest movies. 2013, Dish Network an- America. The biggest together, but walked They come in an array of styles with products simi- Having started in 1985, nounced that all remain- names to come out of more towards fashion colors and designs; the lar to ballet flats, wedges, Blockbuster peaked in ing Blockbuster stores, the family show were than acting. Now, the wearer can even decorate flip-flops, and Sperrys. 2004 with over 9,000 besides 50 franchise- Mary-Kate and Ashley twins’ fashion lines are the shoe with plastic in- Despite their homeli- stores. When competi- owned stores, mostly Olsen. Cast together sold everywhere, particu- sertable pins. Currently, ness, you cannot deny tion from companies located in Alaska and as Michelle Tanner in larly Wal-Mart, with act- the classic Crocs come that Crocs made the ad- like Netflix and Redbox Texas, would close per- 1987, the twins became ing going more to their in 16 colors and combi- ventures of childhood came, Blockbuster suf- manently. famous for the role with little sister, Elizabeth Ol- nations for $34.99 at the slightly easier. If you are the character’s famous sen, who will star in the brand’s website but Ama- ever considering taking photo: caroline forrest catchphrase, “You got next Avengers movie as photo: caroline forrest zon sells them for as low a stroll down memory it dude.” During their The Scarlet Witch. “[Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen] were very cool. as $14.50. The idea for lane, please do yourself a photo: Mary rockwell time growing up on Full a foam shoe, which was I read detective stories on them.” favor and be comfortable “I used to rent movies from them a lot. They were always very easy initially intended for spa by wearing Crocs. “Everytime someone wears Crocs, - Andrea Carey (sophomore) usage, was the brainchild God cries.” going with [returning movies].” - Steve Zanetti (social studies teacher) - Carolyn Schmid (librarian) ports 8 S The Commentator Spring Baseball Benefits Gallagher Cause be used as a benefit game by the Sports Stats Sarah Ashman school to support any cause they Editor-in-Chief wish. After the game, one third of the and Notes money raised goes to the VHSL, Arguably, more people know one third goes to the opponent Baseball “Take Me Out to the Ball who agreed to play a regulation Record: 18-1-0 Game” by heart than “The Star game without keeping score, and Spangled Banner.” one third is allowed to the home Highlights: Beat Atlee There is just something about team to award to a worthy ben- after a rain delay 10-0 fresh cut grass, cracker jacks, and eficiary. the sound of a baseball bat crack- This year there was no doubt in 6 innings ing against a clean white ball that who that beneficiary would be. people love. “We thought that we should do If nothing else, the excite- something to remember Camer- Boys Lacrosse ment of a friendly competition on,” said Ray Moore, boys’ var- PHOTO: DAVE MCCAULEY, NEW BALANCE NATIONALS Record: 13-1-0 is enough to beckon fans into sity baseball head coach. L.C. the gates of Ken Moore Field at Bird donated their third to the Highlights: Beat Atlee Freeman. Everyone wants to see Speak Up 5K, and the umpires PHOTO: YEARBOOK 10-6 to win conference who is up at the end of the in- waived their fees. ning. Andrew Gallagher throws the opening pitch of the benefit game. championship Though the team has been However, recently during a conducting benefit games in the for more than ourselves,” said down in a game, and you see it, boys’ varsity baseball game past, this year’s game was un- Coach Moore. and it shocks you into playing against L.C. Bird, in which the Girls Lacrosse doubtedly significant. The team’s designated hitter, harder… you're winning a game, score was not being kept, compe- “It was like a special moment junior Ethan Payne, showed and it brings you back down to Record: 12-1-0 tition was not a factor; instead, because you know you’re doing how important that greater sense being humble,” said Ethan. Highlights: Beat Atlee approximately 400 people came a good thing for the family…for of purpose was by volunteering Reflecting on the benefit game out that Saturday night to re- the community to come together paint Cameron’s initials onto the and season, which has been at- 9-6 to win conference member Cameron Gallagher. . like that is just a big moment," outfield of Ken Moore Field. tributed largely to Cameron, championship On May 3 at 6 p.m., the boys’ said Coby Sale, a sophomore “Coach came up to me after Coach Moore hopes that not varsity baseball team held their second baseman on the team. practice the day before the first only has the cause brought the annual benefit game and chose "I think the games mean a lot game of the season, and then he team closer, but also that it has Softball Speak Up 5K, a race in the mem- more when they are in her hon- continually asked me to redo it helped heal the community. ory of former student Cameron or… We're playing for her,” said every week or so to keep it fresh “We have such a strong sense Record: 7-8-0 Gallagher, as the beneficiary. Coby. in the outfield, and then before of community at our school; as Highlights: Beat Cameron recently passed away Playing for something larger the benefit game… This past soon as you pass through the after completing a half mara- Thomas Jefferson 16-1 than a win or a personal record time before the benefit game I hallways, you become part of thon. Over $3,000 in donations, impacted the team. wanted to make it look nice, and the family, and we wanted to concessions, and raffles was col- “They were very emotional. it took about two hours to paint make sure that the community lected for the cause. Boys Soccer It was a high school friend who three letters,” said Ethan. and the family knew that we Under Virginia High School had this tragic fate who some of Though the work is strenuous, do have a tight bond and that Record: 7-7-0 League (VHSL) rules, every them knew very well. I think it Ethan believes the effect the let- we care about each other,” said Highlights: Upset team is allowed two scrimmages. gives us a greater sense of pur- ters have is worth it. "You’re Coach Moore. One of those scrimmages can pose as a team… trying to play Maggie-Walker 1-0 to give the Green Drag- Baseball Wraps Up a Successful Season A Year for ons their only loss of ly anticipating this season,” said junior Daniel Lynch, pitcher. the History the season “Knowing that we had the op- Runner-up in confer- portunity [to stay championship ring], inspires us,” said Daniel. Books ence championship Another inspiration for the team was the memory of Cam- eron Gallagher. “Her presence Girls Soccer was definitely felt…Being able to Record: 5-7-1 play for her is a big deal,” said senior Sam Cox. Highlights: Atlee The team had a pregame rit- game - had best ball ual that honored Cameron. “We all run out to the middle of the movement of the sea- field and touch the initials, and son we break down with C.A.M. (for Cameron),” said Daniel. This dedication to a lost friend Boys Tennis mirrors the dedication of the Record: 11-1-0 team to every aspect of their play. Coach Moore said that this Highlights: Beating PHOTO: YEARBOOK year’s squad is “motivated, tal- Senior Austin White at bat during the Gallagher benefit game. ented, and hard-working.” Deep Run to become Andrew Oostdyk start of conference play. Despite hard work and motiva- first in the conference Leah Dillard tion to succeed in the conference, News Editor State Qualified Athletes: There are certain factors that Sports Editor go into building such a success- the most important element of Greg Ackerman & Joseph this year’s season was to have ful season. One of them is the Brown It isn’t easy to be undefeated for coach’s playbook. fun. “Our team is literally a gang The 2013-2014 school year two straight months, but on the Coach Moore’s main strategy of goobers,” said junior Ethan is coming to a close, and it is road to their conference cham- this season was to “focus on daily Payne. “We’re one of the only time to reflect on the amaz- Girls Tennis pionship win, Freeman’s varsity tasks instead of the big picture.” teams I have seen that remem- ing year in sports that we Record: 9-3-0 baseball team did just that. He wanted to eliminate un- bers that it’s all just a game.” had. The year was highlight- “The hope is that the players Highlights: Godwin - After last year’s success, the forced errors and weaknesses. A ed with team and individual baseball team expected a prom- central goal for the season was to can take fond memories of the success in a large variety of close match with many ising 2014 season. “We expected “control the things we can con- field beyond Freeman,” said sports. In the fall, Freeman tiebreakers to have a solid regular season trol like our attitude, the way we Coach Moore. saw its football team have its and to make a push to play our hustle, and the way we play.” The team beat Godwin May 30 best record in years, finishing best baseball at the end of the Mental and physical prepara- for the conference championship at 10-2 with a victory over Boys Track year.” said coach Ray Moore. tion is also crucial to a successful title. They will play in the first Manchester in Freeman’s Even so, they hardly expected season. “We have had workouts round of regionals May 3 against first home playoff game in Highlights: Colonial to have a record of 20-1 by the since the fall. Everyone was real- Prince George. over ten years. Football was Relays at William & back at Freeman, and the ex- Big Feet Compete in High School Meet citement swept throughout Mary the whole school. State Qualified Athletes: The meet also included Olym- Not to be overlooked was Tarell Cisneros-Harrison, pic Town, a venue for prize-filled the Rebels field hockey Matthew HP, Peyton Artz, activities “different from those at team, who defended their Alex Gilliam, Andrew the Little Feet Meet” said Jones. district championship crown Smith, and Micheal Burns The meet was run similarly to from the year before. The the Little Feet Meet, with ener- success that was seen in gized participants and their bud- the fall carried over to the Girls Track dies quickly rotating through spring, where both girls and Highlights: Won events, free from staying with boys varsity lacrosse have their entire class. shined, each winning their sprint medly relay at The meet owes thanks to the district tournament. Southern Track Classic Center for Sport Leadership at The varsity baseball team State Qualified Athletes: VCU, a department with more also carried over its success than 450 graduates, and Special Mackenzie Kerr, Jordan from the previous year in Olympics Virginia. which they won a regional Bourgeois, Nellie Calkins, “It was great to have a “neu- title in 2013. The Rebels Carol Trevey, and Lauren tral” venue and also give the stu- finished with a 19-1 regular Thornton dents an opportunity to partici- season record and are striv- pate at a college stadium!” Jones ing towards another playoff said about using Sports Backers run, hopefully ending in a PHOTO: YEARBOOK Stadium, which is used for many state championship. Coach of Anna (left) and Josh at Sports Backers Stadium. high school sporting events in With the success of Free- the Year Richmond, along with being man’s sports teams this ia Randolph, Varina, Highland VCU’s track. year, came a wave of school Matthew H. P. Springs, Glen Allen, Hermitage “I liked the running!” said spirit that has been missing Sports Editor and Tucker. Courtney Garnol, one Freeman at Freeman for a few years. Like the Little Feet Meet, the participant in the meet. Garnol Teams have performed well Big Feet Meet provides youth also enjoyed playing non-track in every game, and indi- With the success of the Little with disabilities with fun, safe sports such as football. Garnol viduals have shined, mak- Feet Meet over the past few athletic competition. wasn’t alone though; many Free- ing every student at Free- years, the high school version “The major differences were man students participated and man proud. The 2013-2014 had some big shoes to fill. the events.” said Kristen Jones, volunteered. school year has been a great With over 400 participants and the event coordinator and James Freeman volunteers Amina year to be a Rebel, and the 10 high schools competing, the River Region Coordinator at Alic and Anna Fowler can be winning mentality has been Big Feet Meet did just that. The Special Olympics. Some novel seen sporting their Big Feet Meet in instilled in the school for Anne Taylor, Richmond meet was held at Sports Back- events included the 100m run shirts around campus. all sports, for many years to ers Stadium on Boulevard St. in (the Little Feet Meet only has 25 This will now be an annual come. Group girls lacrosse con- Richmond on April 22nd. and 50m), the Turbojav throw event, so let’s make sure Free- ference Coach of the Year These schools included Henri- (Wheelchair assisted) and the man packs the stadium next year. co, Deep Run, Freeman, Virgin- long jump. The Commentator Sports 9 Lacrosse Teams Win Conference Titles Player of the Year Helps Team Win it All Conference Success is Just the Beginning

Matthew Sarah Ashman Heinicke-Peart Editor-in-Chief

“At first I thought I would The final buzzer sounded be crying when I held the as the Rebels ran onto the trophy, but instead, it was field, jumping on top of the moment when we all senior goalie Sean Trent. crowded around Taylor They were mere moments Harmon when she was from holding that coveted holding it. That’s when I trophy in their hands. had tears in my eyes and On May 27 the boys’ var- thought, ‘We did it.’” sity lacrosse team played With a conference trophy the Atlee Raiders at Ran- and a Player of the Year dolph-Macon College for PHOTO: JAMIE LOCKWOOD PHOTO: JAMIE LOCKWOOD award to boast, it’s safe The team celebrates with the championship trophy. the Richmond Group Con- to say that junior Jamie ference Championship. The boys team holds the trophy after beating Atlee 10-6. Lockwood’s 2014 lacrosse Teammates also contrub- from a repertoire of young The Rebels started off fore a game, but the players George Cloud, senior de- season has been a success. uted. “It was such a good talent, including Gracie strong with a 4-0 lead, but believe it was this mindset fensive player and captain. Jamie was honored May feeling knowing that I had Douglas and Carleigh by the middle of the third that enabled them to come Though the Rebels have 27 at her conference cham- a little bit to do with their Craddock, “We had six quarter the Atlee Raid- back after losing the lead much to be proud of with pionship at Randolph-Ma- successes and vice versa,” freshmen on the team and ers had come back with in the third quarter. their season thus far, they con College. The Rebels said junior Sarah Fortune. we could have them all on a score of 6-5. However, “We didn’t freak out are focused on achieving beat Atlee 9-6 to earn their The Rebels’ success this the field at once,” said Ja- two back-to-back goals by when they started coming the next level of their goal. first Conference 11 title. season has largely been a mie. Gracie junior attack player Ford back...the time came,” said “We still want to go far “It’s a huge honor. I was product of good teamwork The Rebels did have Hendrix secured the lead Ted. in regionals- no Freeman really surprised because and depth. “Nobody plays to overcome a few chal- with a score of 7-6. The Ford Hendrix's two goals [lacrosse] team has gotten there are so many wor- for the stat book on the lenges. “The first James Rebels went on a 5-0 goal in the third quarter tied past the first round of re- thy players in the district. team,” said Jamie. River game was definitely streak to win 10-6. the game, and gave the gionals so that’s kind of a But I will say it was weird “We just wanted to play a wakeup call! We lost 7-6 Due to their win, the Reb- Rebels the lead. The over- goal for us,” said Ted. that...there are individual for each other,” said Sarah. in double overtime…but els (16-1) will play in the all shooting of the team The team won their first awards because no player “Our subs were just as a we knew what we needed 5A South Zone Playoffs throughout the game was round of regionals against is as good as the team. I good as our starting team to work on to make sure on their home field against also impressive. Culpeper 12-6 and will go think it’s all about how and all played as hard,” we beat them the next time the Culpeper County Blue Junior Captain Evan Ty- on to play Albemarle in you work together and said Jamie. around,” said Sarah. Devils (11-3). ler led the team with four the June 3 semifinal game. work with each other’s “We would list off spe- The Rebels beat James When the Rebels faced goals, and junior John “We have been playing strengths,” said Jamie. cific things we needed to River in that second game. the Atlee Raiders previ- Woolley followed with our best lacrosse when it On the field, Jamie sees work on each week and “We are stronger than ously, they won 6-4. three. Senior Aaron Cole- counts, and I would expect herself as the “eyes and keep practicing them until ever,” said Sarah. “We were kind of re- man also had one goal. no different as we enter brain” of the defense. they were almost perfect,” That strength led the laxed.We just wanted to The Rebel defense also [regionals]. This team has Jamie wasn’t alone rep- said Sarah. “Our team had Rebels to a 22-4 victory play our game, so we were had an excellent game. what it takes as long as we resenting Freeman; her chemistry that I’ve never over Eastern View High calm," said freshman Ted "[There were] five min- can continue playing hard coach, Anne Taylor, won felt with any other [team] School in the first round of Palmer. utes left and we played D and making the right de- Richmond Group Coach in my career.” the regional tournament Some coaches warn of for 2 minutes straight and cisions,” said head coach of the Year. The Rebels also benefited on May 30. such a relaxed attitude be- didn't give up a goal," said John Neal.

Spring Sports Top Performers Baseball Boys Lacrosse Girls Lacrosse Boys Soccer Girls Soccer

PHOTO: TOM VEAZEY PHOTO: TOM VEAZEY PHOTO: CARLEY CRADDOCK PHOTO: TOM VEAZEY PHOTO: TOM VEAZEY Ethan Payne Evan Tyler Carley Craddock Connor Fair Meghan Hegarty Junior Junior Freshman Junior Senior Strength: Ability to come Strengths: Shot and Strengths: Shooting and Strengths: Speed and Strengths: Passing the through when needed and hustle energy ball-control ball well and setting “keep the dugout loose” people up to score Best game: Deep Run - Best Game: Deep Run or Best game: Two goals Best game: Atlee - hit He played smart and his Atlee - “My shots against Tucker Best game: Tucker - home run to take the lead shot was on target improved.” scored two goals and “I try to be in the right passed really well “I feel like I’ve “We have a lot of young “As a whole, this has place at the right time so contributed in my role, talent and I think that if been one of the best the skills I do have can be “It’s a building year, so but haven’t tried to over- we can use it together teams I’ve played on... used to my advantage.” we’re slowly getting bet- step myself or be some- we can go very far in the we are all so passionate ter as the year goes on.” thing I’m not.” post-season.” about the sport.”

Softball Boys Tennis Girls Tennis Boys Track Girls Track

PHOTO: TOM VEAZEY PHOTO: TOM VEAZEY PHOTO: TOM VEAZEY PHOTO: TOM VEAZEY PHOTO: MACKENZIE KERR

Virginia Irby Greg Akerman Olivia Wilson Tarell Cisneros-Harriso- MacKenzie Kerr Sophomore Junior Senior Grade 11 Junior

Strengths: Keeping Strength: Consistency Strengths: Consistency, Strengths: Strength and Strength: Speed everyone on task composure, and serve speed Best game: Doubles Best game: Won relay at Best game: Hermitage- matches against Deep Best game: First match Best game: Jumped over the Southern Track Hit first home run, set Run against Godwin; Played 6’2” at Tucker Classic in May tone for the season well and it went to a third “Track is a really mental “Coach Brinkley and all “We have a great group set tie breaker sport so I’ve been work- “I just try to be well- of guys, and even those the other coaches did a ing on competing phys- rounded so that I can help who don’t play are very “Practicing with my team good job helping me get cially and mentally. I’ve out in as many ways as supportive.” has helped me improve. stronger and faster for the had great support from possible.” My doubles partner and I post-season.” my teammates.” have gotten a lot better.” ports 10 S The Commentator Rebels Wave Hello to Spring and Summer Kiteboarding-Tyler Hutchison Rowing/Crew-Rose Lewis complex and unorthodox, the concept is quite simple: hold onto the bar and don’t fall. Hutchison has been perfecting this concept for about three years. “[My favorite moment was] the first time I got up, because it was the begin- ning of a journey I knew would last a lifetime.” Tyler often takes beach trips with his brothers, mostly to North Carolina, “The Outer Banks is one of the best spots for [kite- boarding].” PHOTO: ROSE LEWIS “It’s similar to wake- boarding, but it incorpo- River City owns a vast pates in three or four races rates a lot of aspects from Luke Twente amount of boats, but only a year. Last season, Rose sailing also” said Tyler Sports Editor uses 10 during a season. and River City won the about his adventurous In a given season, River James River regatta hosted City Crew has anywhere by rival James River High beach pastime. Rowing is one of the Tyler uses techniques like between 70-90 crew mem- School. . fastest growing sports in bers. “We get to the races all tacking, turning around America. Freeman has a 180 degrees to change di- “River City is super fun, over Virginia really early large population of crew it’s a really good mix of and then have to put the rection on the board while members, one of which is moving, to keep things fun people from all different boat together because it sophomore Rose Lewis. schools,” Rose said. has to be apart to put them and challenging. Rose has only been row- PHOTO: TYLER HUTCHISON “You do some radical However, rowing is not on the trailer, but anyway, ing for a year and a half, all bathing suits and oars. we then put the boat in the Kiteboarding (kitesurf- tricks.” but is already experienced. “It’s not an individual water all assembled and do Matthew H.P. ing) requires one to fly Tyler likes to wakeboard “My friend Grace who thing…you really need to our thing,” Rose said. a kite while on a board when he’s not kiteboard- Sports Editor also goes to Freeman got pay attention to everyone This year, River city with/without foot-straps. ing, and he is definitely me to try it with her, and in the boat, it really is a brought four boats to the The kite catches the wind part of the watersports it was fun! Unlike anything While most spend their team sport, because ev- regional torment in Car- and propels the boarder in trend at Freeman this I’d tried before,” she said. time at the beach as ama- eryone contributes. We all leton, New Jersey. One of different directions, and spring and summer. Rose rows with the club teur swimmers or surfers, have to stay in sync,” she which made it to the finals. allows for movement over “It’s such a thrill being organization River City Junior Tyler Hutchison said. “I love rowing, it’s really waves and/or tricks. able to take advantage of Crew, a team based out of prefers the skilled sport of A rowing race is called fun and a super good work While the sport seems a bit what Mother Nature sup- Robius Landing behind kiteboarding. regatta. River City partici- out,” she said. plies us with.” James River High School. Wakeboarding-Will Sadler Sailing-Jackson Bergstrom

that he could actually win myself because the boat some competitions. we normally sail on needs “There are multiple dif- more than one person to ferent sections based on sail,” said Jackson. age level and skill level, Jackson has encountered as well as based on what some dangerous situations tricks you can do. There while sailing. will be like one run, and “One time we were an- have about ten jumps to chored in a creek and there land you 10 tricks,” said was a giant hail storm Will. near us so we were about Though he has just only to have to swim to shore. started getting into the When it thunderstorms competitions, he is cur- you can’t touch anything rently working very hard metal because everything on landing two new tricks, is attached to the mast and one being a toe-side back PHOTO: JACKSON BERGSTROM the mast is basically a giant roll. pete in any sort of races, lighting rod,” said Jackson. A toe-side back roll is Trent McCaffrey he just sails because he Jackson's family has “when you come in with Sports Editor loves doing it. many boats. your toes facing towards “I enjoy sailing because “We sold our little sail- the wake, and then you I love the feeling of being boat, but we still have a flip going the opposite way As summer nears, the on a boat. The combina- 12ft sailing dinghy, a 35ft you were going,” said Will. water and air get warm- tion of everything togeth- sailboat, and a 25ft T-top The other new trick is a er, and sailing season ar- er is an awesome feeling, fishing boat. I miss having raley, which is “when you rives. the smaller sailboat be- PHOTO: WILL SADLER from leaning over the come in with you heels Sophomore Jackson water to getting up to a cause it was more nimble his experience in wake- facing towards a wake and Bergstrom looks forward high speed from just the and when you sail smaller Sebastian Hughes boarding. Sadler also said sort of lay out like super- to summer because he wind. Nothing can beat boats it feels like you are A&E Editor that getting over the fear man in the air,” said Will. has been sailing for about it,” said Jackson. sailing at a higher speed” of trying a new trick is the Even though Will is get- nine years. Jackson mainly sails on said Jackson. hardest part of the sport. ting more serious about Jackson’s dad taught the Rappahannock Riv- Jackson has also capsized Shifting one’s talent from Currently, Will competes the sport, his main priority him to sail. “He is from er. His favorite place to a number of times but it- a hobby to a competition in sub-pro competitions, continues to be to wake- Annapolis, Maryland sail is in the Chesapeake normally doesn’t happen is a big task, but when that having only recently start- board for fun. which is known as the Bay. on big boats. sport involved flipping over ed competing regularly. “I’ve always had a lake ‘Sailing Capital of the “My favorite memory “When you capsize all you waves on your knees, and “I first tried it when house, so it was just some- World,’ and he taught of sailing is when my really have to do is stand being pulled by a boat go- I was seven and I only thing me and my family sailing there, so it has family and I sailed all the on the keel of the boat and ing several miles an hour, started getting serious would always do when been in the family,” said way from the Rappahan- flip it back over,” said Jack- the transformation can be- and landing tricks when I we would go down,” said Jackson. nock River to Yorktown. son. come even more daunting. was about 14,” said Will. Will. “Normally when I sail, It took about a day or Jackson and his family “Chances are you are Once Will started landing Will’s dad and sister also I’m with my family or two. ” said Jackson. look forward to getting going to think of about the more tricks and feeling play watersports, but Will my dad and friends,” said “I normally don’t go on the water as the sum- worst case scenario,” said better about his talent, the admits that “no one enjoys Jackson. sailing on long trips by mer makes its way into the junior Will Sadler about thought crossed his mind it as much as me.” Jackson doesn’t com- year. Freshman Feels Right at Home on Varsity varsity team, but he has cer- age, so there was an adjustment. Luis admitted that his support- tainly performed well enough Also, there’s still the fact that he ive teammates helped him have a to be a part of the varsity squad has to ask for rides and things positive experience. “It has been this year.” like that, so he lacks some shared great –all the guys have brought Luis’ success has been facil- experiences.” me in being the only freshman.” itated by more than a decade However, the age difference Luis has earned the name of experience. At three years between Luis and his teammates “Rookie” and the position of old, Luis began playing tee-ball has not at all hindered their dy- team bat boy. “Of course I get with his father. “My dad played namic, or Luis’ ability to gain teased all the time, but I embrace baseball, so I’m kind of carry- reverence. it. It’s fun,” he said. ing on the tradition,” said Luis. “From the performance aspect, Luis’ teammates appreciate Luis has played for Glen Al- he’s every bit as good as other his lighthearted yet strong char- len Little League and Lakeside varsity players,” he said. “He acter. “He gets the team up and Little League. In addition to plays well enough to garner their laughing a lot…He has a really playing for Freeman, he plays respect, and doesn’t have an ego. good spirit,” said teammate Jake PHOTO: YEARBOOK for a travel team called Glen He’s also a really good person, so Gerkin. Allen Extreme. “We go all he fits in just fine.” “I think the guys on the team out for a team predominately Leah Dillard around the East coast,” Luis Throughout the season, Luis really enjoy having him around,” made up of juniors and seniors. said. “This year, we’re going has proved to be a valuable as- said Coach Moore. “They have Sports Editor Luis wasn’t fazed despite the fact down to Florida and South set. “I think his strongest suit is the opportunity to help him de- that he was only 14 years old at Carolina a bunch.” versatility – he can play any spot velop as a player.” the time. All of this practice paid off on the field well. We can always Luis, currently a catcher and He can successfully play any po- “I got to see him play last year sition. He performs well under when he made the varsity team count on him to play a strong pitcher, hopes to pitch more of- at Tuckahoe Middle School, and as a freshman. Coach Moore game wherever we put him,” ten. pressure. He pitched a shutout when I did I saw that he was a game against Hermitage, leading viewed Luis’ transition as fairly said Coach Moore. Based on his recent shutout great player,” said Ray Moore, seamless. “There’s nothing that has to game against Hermitage, there the team to a 10-0 win. He is the head coach of Freeman varsity only freshman on Freeman’s var- “I think that it’s different be- do with baseball that [Luis] can’t is much more of his play to be baseball. “I didn’t know if he’d cause he’s used to playing on do,” said teammate Coby Sale. seen and much to look forward sity baseball team, Luis Barrios. be ready to play for the Freeman Back in February, Luis tried teams with players his own “He can do anything.” to over the next three years. rts ntertainment The Commentator A & E 11 Making an Impact One Verse at a Time

Go to “The Commentator” blog for a rap collaboration between Cole- man and Arthur

http://ti- nyurl.com/ kingcolegtp

PHOTO: ALISON EDDINS PHOTO: ALISON EDDINS Sophomore Coleman “King Cole” Greene’s music is becoming GTP creator Arthur Fragoso’s goal is to make a positive impact more popular with his music grown over the years. He said, ed to think rap sounded nice,” low, mark my words,” he said. you are in that moment.” “Sometimes when I’m in the Hayley Fogleman said Arthur. He would take Big- He is inspired by other lesser Coleman collaborates with West End, or even at the gym, gie over Soulja Boy any day. known rappers he hears. more people. He often collabo- Staff Writer I’ll have people come up to me Arthur believes there are so “Ever since I have started rap- rates with Freeman junior Tan- and say ‘hey, you’re that rapper’ many untalented artists who ping, I have moved from listen- ner Toy and sophomore Carter Freestyling and toungue twist- and it’s a really cool experience.” have become famous. ing to only mainstream guys to Ward (Cartier) from Godwin. ing rappers are taking the stage. Sophomore Coleman Greene, “If Soulja Boy can do it, why pretty much only underground His fans are the ones who in- Rapping has become more popu- known as King Cole to his fans, can’t I?” he said. artists. I feel that their style is spire him. His Soundcloud, twit- lar with the student body. is also famous with his home Arthur has made five mixed more accurate to mine...their ter, and Bandcamp have helped Not only are Freeman students computer and microphone skills. tapes of his own. He has per- messages are less corrupted and him gain popularity. embracing this art, but they are “I got into rapping around the formed in Florida and Califor- polluted,” he said. “When people say that I’m also listening to their peers who summer before 8th grade. I’ve nia in two different showcases. Coleman believes cursing in his their inspiration or that one of have mastered this talent. always been a musician, playing Recently he was invited to come raps is unnecessary. If he wants my songs made their day, I feel Junior Arthur Fragoso has guitar, mandolin, and singing. back to LA and to perform in to reach out to everyone, his mu- like I did my job. When people tackled the art of rapping. As the One day I was just bored and de- DC. sic has to cater to all types and say, ‘Coleman, I was listening to creator of “Giving them Positiv- cided to right some lyrics down, “I’ve collaborated with a cou- ages. you all class’ or ‘You were our ity” (GTP), his main goal is to and it sounded pretty good. Ever ple people, but mostly I rap by “Instead of cursing, I am able pregame music!’ I am ecstatic,” have a positive impact. since then, rapping has been a myself. I’ve been working with a to illustrate my intents better,” he said. “GTP stands for that because huge part of my life,” said Cole- lot more people lately, though,” Coleman said, “So play my mu- Arthur and Coleman agree that I had a rough upbringing, and man. he said. sic for your grandmas. Play it for rap needs to reach the student I’ve been around a lot of nega- Similarly, Coleman does not Although Arthur wants to con- your pastors and teachers. Play body more than it has in the past. tive stuff in my life. I thought it consider rapping his main job, tinue his music career after high it for your parents who don’t Coleman said, “I get encour- was important to reach out to but rather a way to reach people. school, he still wants to go to like rap because it’s vulgar and aged by the people who want to people,” said Arthur. “I would like for my life experi- college. “Rapping acts as my sec- coarse. Play it for people who are hear me. Hopefully people can Arthur’s first experience with ences to shape my music, not my ond job, school being my first,” sad and play it for people who spread the rumor and my music rap was the day he heard Biggie music shape my life experiences. he said. are happy. And play it for your- can reach more people through- Smalls on the radio. “When I Wherever I go, the music will fol- heard Biggie, that’s when I start- Arthur’s fame from GTP has self and let it reach you wherever out high school.”

Cermaics Crosses International Borders

The ceramics class is based on she didn’t see him very often. Alex Gilliam learning specific pottery tech- Moving to the United States Design Editor niques and then making different offered him a chance at a bet- types of pieces to practice it. ter job for him and a better fu- “In ceramics, you do the skill ture for the entire family. “But it was such a big deci- Her sincere interest in Ce- stuff first,” said Dana Morris, sion, we packed all our things ramics is what makes Ereny Ceramics teacher. “We did a coil the night of the flight because PHOTO: MADDY WALDRON Shawki different. She is a ju- pot first then a themed coil pot.” we still weren’t sure,” said Ere- The yummy variety of Sugar Shack Donuts has Freeman hooked. nior who is about to finish The class has covered several ny. Ceramics I with an impressive different techniques while work- After they finish working on display of Egyptian-themed ing with clay this year, and have an item in class, they share the Donut Miss These Treats pottery to show for it. made things like bowls, cups, piece with everyone else. Country Style Donuts is 23 Although this year has been and vases. Of course this also “We critique our work in Alison Eddins minutes away from Freeman about learning the basics of means that there is plenty of fin- class because you can think News Editor (located at 4300 Williamsburg pottery skills, Ereny has been ished work around. of a work differently than the Rd.), so it’s a bit of a ride. But if able to integrate her culture “I have all of mine at home person who made it so we get you live out towards the airport and experience into her work. and honestly couldn’t give any I donut know about you, but to understand their point of or have plenty of gas in your car, Beginning this year she says of them for gifts because I feel every time I see a picture of a view,” said Ereny. then Country Style is your place. that the most basic and foun- like they were a lot of work and box of Sugar Shack or Country Ereny can explain how she Plus, it’s open 24 hours a day, so dational skill they learned too personal,” said Ereny “but Style donuts pop up in my Insta- has shown her Egyptian cul- if you’re looking for a donut shop was, “the process of not mak- I’m planning to make gradua- gram news feed, I gawk for a sol- ture what she has made. She to satisfy your midnight craving, ing the clay explode in the tion gifts.” id five minutes with my mouth said, “There is always a way to you know where to go. But just a kiln.” As an Egyptian, Ereny has watering. The donut has become emphasize my country here , I heads up—donut go on a Mon- “First day of class I was made her culture the focus of my most used emoji, and I’ve be- don’t feel that I’m not fitting in day, because they’re closed. like ‘I don’t think I can make many of the themed assign- come as addicted to donut puns or anything.” Although Country Style donuts all of this handmade stuff,’ I ments. as I am to the actual food. Ereny didn’t get into Ceram- tasted incredible, I fell in love im- thought it was really compli- “I made a pyramid [for one], Despite hearing about donut ics her sophomore year, so she mediately with Sugar Shack. It’s cated and my hands hurt after but not a traditional look of a shops that have become popular was excited to have gotten in located at 1001 N Lombardy St. wedging,” Ereny said. Wedg- pyramid. I tried to symbolize spots, I had never branched out this year. As for next year, she (right across from Maggie Walk- ing is the process of repeat- peace … so I put a dove on top from the always-classic Krispy says that she’s given up an AP er High School). From the out- edly throwing the clay onto of it.” Kreme, because who doesn’t elective in order to make room side the shop seemed dull, but as a table in order to prepare it Ereny’s family moved to Rich- love a hot, fresh, glazed donut? for Ceramics II. It’s worth- soon as I walked in the door, the for use. The class does not use mond from Al-minya, Egypt But it’s been on my to-do list, so while because, “this is so much delicious smell smacked me in pottery wheels to make bowls when she was in the 6th grade. I took a risk and tried out some fun, [it’s] like stress relief for the face, and the cute, fun atmo- and vases; they do all of the She said that her father had been less-mainstream donut hotspots. me!” From the outside, Country sphere had me sold. Each donut work by hand. working in Kuwait, and that Style Doughnuts seems very was around $1.25, but the size nondescript—it’s secluded, looks and flavor variety made Sugar old and almost run-down, and Shack donuts worth their price. seems to be in the middle of no- I chose a classic glazed donut where—and it made me question and a cinnamon sugar donut so the hype about their donuts. But that I could compare to those you shouldn’t judge a donut shop from Country Style, and I also by its cover. tried the apple fritter. The cinna- When you open the door, you mon sugar donut was fluffy and immediately smell them. Before sweet, and I thought it was even you even see the glorious wall of better than the one from Country donuts behind the counter, you Style. The glazed donut was also know they’re going to be good. delicious, and since Sugar Shack Similar to the layout of Panera has a perfect set-up for dropping Bread bagels, the donuts are dis- in for donuts to-go, I made sure played on shelves on the back to grab some to take home (they wall behind the counter. The taste even better after popping smell is heavenly, and the shop them in the microwave). boasts of donuts baked fresh dai- The apple fritter was definitely ly. If you’re looking for a wide my favorite—rich in flavor with selection of treats, it’s best to go a glaze of vanilla icing that per- early in the morning, because the fectly complements the melt-in- shop is popular and the supply your-mouth consistency. Yum. wanes throughout the day. My only word of advice to im- After deliberating about what prove the Sugar Shack experi- to order, I decided to try a glazed ence would be for them to add donut and a cinnamon cruller. tables and chairs, because al- though the donuts are fantastic, Both were fantastic, and I was PHOTO: SEBASTIAN HUGHES pleased to find that the donuts the seating options are limited. taste as good as they smell. I also Both donut shops get an A+ in Junior Ereny Shawki makes ceramic bowls in her Ceramics I class. Ereny has created tried Apple Crum and Boston my book; each provides a unique pieces combining elements of her Egyptian roots and her American life. Cream, which both tasted cake- taste and experience for donut fa- like and sugary. Marked as 96 natics. But one thing is for sure— cents per donut, the prices are they’re so addicting, it’s probably definitely reasonable. a good thing I donut live closer. rts ntertainment 12 A & E The Commentator Spring Album Reviews Iggy Azalea Needs to Find Her Stride Azalea largely holds this suc- The female singing voice and Sebastian Hughes cess to her hit single, “Fancy” Azalea’s rapping voice comple- A&E Editor featuring Charli XCX, which ment each other quite nicely, cre- is currently high on the charts, ating a successful hit slightly behind the song “Prob- This is also shown in Azalea’s lem” by Ariana Grande, a song second best song on the album, that features Iggy Azalea. called “Black Widow,” which Both of these hit songs, howev- features female singer Rita Ora. er, are Azalea’s only true break- There are two types of rappers, out songs. Iggy Azalea’s album those that are in the mainstream is full of typical rap songs that as featured artists, and those that one expects from a female rap- do this as well as have their own per. successful material, such as Jay- Most of Azalea’s songs are Z and Kanye West. about herself, triumphing over Both of these successful rap- Photo: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Godzilla_(2014_film) others and her own victories. pers have found a way to make This message floods the lyrics their voice work in songs that Photo: http://iggyazalea.com/ and the tone of the entire album, become successful without fea- transforming from the satirical tured artists. Is Godzilla Really the Album: The New Classic “Fancy” to an ego-filled “Don’t Iggy has potential, stepping Artist: Iggy Azalea Need Y’all.” into her own in songs like “Im- Rating: Azalea’s best songs, it appears, possible is Nothing” and “God- King of Monsters? Iggy Azalea is the biggest rap- are when another female singer dess,” both have mainstream Ken Watanabe’s character was per to come to popularity since is a part of the song or is fea- radio potential. Shannon McCarthy the foremost Godzilla expert in Nikki Minaj in 2010. Her album tured with her. This happens on It will take more, however, for A&E Editor the world, but he barely talked. has peaked at #3 on the Bill- both of Azalea’s hits, as “Fancy” Azalea to really find her stride. He just stood there wide eyed board Top 200 Albums, the only and “Problem” have choruses Only time will tell if she is able and speechless. This type of shot rapper who previous debuted sung by Charli XCX and Ariana to do so. Rating: may have worked for a movie that high was Minaj. Grande, respectively. The king of monsters roars back back in the 1970s, but now it’s into theatres and our hearts, after viewed as cheesy. The Black Keys Make Good, Similar Music this new installment of the Japa- However, the movie itself was nese legend. With a star-studded beautiful. The epic scope of the chill of the past releases. Their ities make it difficult to make any cast, big names like Bryan Cran- film made for some breathtaking past albums produced alternative individual song have an impact. ston, Ken Watanabe, and Eliza- shots. rock hits like “Lonely Boy,” and There needs to be a balance beth Olson, and a decent prem- From the location shots to the “Gold on the Ceiling,” but this between direction and song di- ise, “Godzilla” is a bound to be first look of Godzilla the film one, while maintain the same versity. This album seems to everything America wants in a oozed blockbuster, the special principles of music based on be a mix of The Beatles, who I movie right? Well, no, actually. effects were fantastic; everything quality, lacks the charisma pro- love, and boring. Going down Don’t get me wrong, when looked realistic in my opinion. duced by the others. The songs the list of songs, from 1 to 11, Godzilla first appeared on the The monsters looked like they are not bad and the style, a mix the same monotone piano keys big screen, I was jumping up and crawled directly from the ocean. of rock, funk, jazz, and pop, is and guitar strings that are spread down in my seat, but then it cut The movie knew what it was, there, but sometimes an artist throughout each song make the away from the action. The movie but it also was trying to build-up has too much style and it con- album feel like one 45:09 minute cut away a lot right as a big ac- for a fight that ultimately left me sumes the songs. For instance, song. The Black Keys embody tion sequence was about to take feeling underwhelmed by the end PhotO: http://www.billboard.com songs, such as “Turn Blue” and the Beatles’ want to merge rock place. of the movie. Unfortunately for “Fever”, are smothered by the and pop but, in this album, they the film, the suspense it forced to Turn Blue Sure, suspense is great for a Album: same notes from electric guitars somehow fail to make the music create did not win me over. The Black Keys movie, but when you’re teased Artist: and pianos. It is as if the musi- interesting enough to want to Critics and audiences are ex- so much for the most amazing Rating: cians are so in love with these play it over and over again. tremely divided over the movie. The Black Keys have been action ever—the movie better de- notes that The best part of the album, Some people take the same called great for several reasons, liver. It did not though. That is the first issue with like always, is the instruments, stance as me saying there needed and their talent is undeniable. The final action sequence was this album; there is more style the best beat being given in the to be more action. Their success comes largely from amazing, but it was not the ac- than good music. Luckily for faster pace “Gotta Get Away.” It Others say that the amount the way they integrate classic tion I was expecting after being The Black Keys, their style is so is nice to hear an electric guitar of suspense added more punch rock with today’s modern crav- teased so heavily. unique and interesting, with cool in fresh material, rather than in to the ending fight. With a 73 ing for something different. Another issue I had with the guitar beats and piano rhythms, classic rock everyone loves. They percent rating from critics and The duo earns respect from the action was that when Godzil- that it more or less compensates breathe fresh life into the classic audiences on Rotten Tomatoes, older generation for embodying la was onscreen, they barely for it. ways, and feet cannot help not it is clear that most movie goers the 60s, 70s, and 80s. Today’s showed him. They just showed The second issue is the differ- stomping to the beat. agree that “Godzilla” left an im- music fans love it because they reaction shots the entire time. ent songs, or rather, the lack of It is for this reason that Turn pression. embellish their music with the Some characters were practically difference in the songs. Practical- Blue remains a decent album, Overall, I had an enjoyable time alternative genre. reduced to faces that the director ly every single song is too similar for, the direction, though very with the movie, but I wish there The Black Keys’ past several could use for cheap emotional vocally and instrumentally. All straight, is nothing like present was more action and substance albums have led to critical ac- moments. of the songs are well written and day music. to the King of Monsters. claim, but this album lacks the have a good beat, but the similar- Prom 2014: An Evening with James Bond

All photos: yearbook