Vol. LXIX, No. I Douglas Southall Freeman High School May 2021 Mrs. Criswell Says Farewell to Freeman scheduled to have her second Criswell. Sydney Tyler child in the middle of the season, “Mrs. Criswell preaches Sports Editor she instead challenged herself to responsibility, accountability, coach Junior Varsity (JV) girls [and] discipline,” said Mr. After 34 years at Freeman, Su- basketball. “I knew nothing about George. zane Criswell has decided that the basketball, but if they were will- From PE teacher to coach 2020-2021 school year will be her ing to teach me I was willing to to Student Activities Director, last as Freeman’s Director of Stu- coach,” said Mrs. Criswell. Mrs. Criswell has helped every dent Activities. Mrs. Criswell has Since her time as girls basketball student that has walked through dedicated her life to education, coach , Mrs. Criswell has found Freeman’s doors find and pursue spending 42 years in the field, 34 the most rewarding part of her job their passion. of which have been at Freeman. to be helping students discover Mr. George said, “When I With her fifth grandchild on their passion. “I hate watching realized I wanted to teach and the way, Mrs. Criswell will be sports on TV, so having the op- coach at my alma mater, I went stepping away from the Freeman portunity to watch young athletes by [Mrs. Criswell’s] office to family to focus on her immediate [in real life] work hard and play thank her and with a huge smile. family. “I never missed anything at [their] passion is always re- She said, ‘Welcome home.’” warding and fulfilling,” she said. “Mrs. Criswell has always made my kids did and this job would re- PHOTO: CLAIRE MORRIS But supervising athletics only an effort to watch and support quire me to miss those things for Mrs. Criswell has worked at Freeman for 34 years. makes up part of Mrs. Criswell’s us.” said junior girls basketball my grandkids and I don’t want to projects around the school and committed to these students, job. She is also in charge of player AK Canavos. “She would do that,” she said. athletics department. Some committed to the values and overseeing, planning, and come over after games and talk While impactful, Mrs. projects she’s worked on include coordinating all student activities with us about different things that Criswell’s years at Freeman have the new turf field, updates to the including quiz bowl and theatre’s happened that game and it always not always been smooth sailing. upper fields and softball field, She was, and one act competition. She said, made my night.” On her first day of work as a and improvements to the base- will always be, “Seeing students’ phenomenal After 34 years and impacting physical education (PE) teacher ball area. “All [the projects] have committed to this work in the one act competition is thousands of lives, it is no sur- here at Freeman, Mrs. Criswell been challenging, but if you love school,”“ always a highlight” and “watch- prise that Freeman has been a entered the big gym to discover a family you do what you can for ing battle of the brains answer special place for Mrs. Criswell. that the floor had developed two them,” said Mrs. Criswell. “This - Chapin George questions I don’t even understand “Freeman is family, it’s seen me large bubbles over the weekend, is an extraordinary community is amazing.” through a lot,” said Criswell. “I making it unusable. This bump that does whatever they can to image of Douglas Freeman.” For Mrs. Criswell, the job of came to work every day loving in the road took until December support Freeman without ques- Mrs. Criswell has been flexible student activities director goes this place and loving the jobs I’ve to get fixed, so she was forced to tion.” over the years, doing whatever deeper than the job description. had here. I love this place.” adapt. “We ended up having to “Mrs. Criswell’s legacy is one she could to benefit the Freeman “I hope that whoever sits at this The Freeman family will play volleyball in the small gym of commitment,” said Chapin community. In 1987, her first year desk understands the scope of miss you. Thank you for your that year,” said Mrs. Criswell. George, Boys Varsity Basketball at Freeman, the student activities this job- it’s helping kids find dedication and hard work Mrs. Since then, Mrs. Criswell coach. “She was, and will always director at the time asked her to and realize a passion,” said Mrs. Criswell! has been involved in numerous be, committed to this school, coach gymnastics. But as she was HCPS Greenlights Outdoor Graduation anticipation towards graduation as students, teacher Rob Peck How to understands the sentimental value Register to Vote that the celebration holds for students and their families. “A public moment where we acknowledge all the graduating seniors, where we think about next steps, where we celebrate past successes,” said Mr. Peck, “[holds] enormous value.” In regards to graduation for the Class of ‘21, Mr. Peck said that he PHOTO: HENRICO SCHOOLS “applaud[s] the county’s decision Henrico County principals and administrators on the Richmond You must: to do what it can to give our grad- Raceway track uating seniors as normal an expe- he was not as upset about los- rience as they can.” He added that Jack Harenchar ing graduation as he was about be 18 years old Online Editor-In-Chief “los[ing] the entirety of [his] se- nior second semester.” Anything we by the next elec- Senior Amanda Gagen said that can do to celebrate Despite spending most of their “[she] had a bunch of friends who the work the stu- tion senior year online, things appear graduated last year and they had dents“ have put in has to be in order for Henrico County … little group gatherings with Public School (HCPS) seniors to each other … [but] it’s definitely to be a good thing..” end high school on a high note. missing something not to have ev- - Rob Peck On March 17, HCPS eryone all together.” That won’t be a U.S. Citizen announced that they plan to hold be an issue this year. “anything we can do to celebrate in-person, outdoor graduation With HCPS giving the go-ahead the work the students have put in ceremonies for the Class of 2021, for traditional graduations in has to be a good thing.” adhering to Governor Ralph 2021, Senior Amanda Gagen said “[Graduation is] a chance to Northam’s COVID guidelines. that she was “really happy to see celebrate the people who have have no criminal The governor’s guidance on that we are going to be in person helped you along the way,” said graduations provides that outdoor for [graduation].” Freeman Principal John Marshall, record ceremonies may take place with While not releasing details noting that he remembers his a maximum occupancy of 5,000 initially, the school district own graduation vividly. “[It’s] a people, or 30 percent of a venue›s finally announced on April 23 moment for families to celebrate capacity, as long as patrons wear that the Richmond Raceway all the little sacrifices that it masks and adhere to social dis- would hold the ceremonies for 9 takes to raise a child and for Important Dates: tancing and hand-cleaning proto- of this year’s graduating classes. students to gather one last time cols. Each student will be given four with their community of friends, Last spring, the coronavirus tickets for friends and family classmates and teachers who have Online, in-person, pandemic forced Henrico County who will sit socially distanced in contributed to their journey.” to cancel typical graduation the grandstands while students Looking forward to her and mail registration ceremonies, held at VCU’s Seigel graduate on a stage down on graduation day, Amanda says Center. Abbreviated graduation the track. Freeman’s graduation that she is most excited about the must be completed or ceremonies for the Class of 2020 ceremony is scheduled for class’s commencement speaker. took the form of driving around Wednesday, June 16, at 10 a.m. “I admire them a lot [because] it the Richmond Raceway and Until recently, current seniors takes a lot to get up in front of the postmarked 22 days individual cap and gown photo were unsure of the form that class and speak and I just think sessions as students received their their ceremony would take with it›s really sweet to hear what they before Election Day diplomas. graduation rapidly approaching. have to say to people that they’ve While graduation last year “Me and a lot of my friends were had so many experiences with.” wasn’t ideal, Freeman Class of worried that we weren’t going While certainly, no plans in the 2020 graduate Hill Nystrom said to be able to have in-person COVID-19 era are completely These forms can be obtained from that “the Nascar and small group graduation,” said Amanda. “[It is] safe, Hill said that seniors should ceremonies were safe, fun re- really important to me … [and] I try to, “have a good time… but your local registration office or online placements and gave us an oppor- feel like it’s a really nice way to enjoy your last moments as a tunity to say goodbye to friends get closure on high school.” high schooler,” no matter what and teachers.” He added that Despite not sharing the same graduation looks like.

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PHOTO: COLLEGEBOARD ́ AP ID? The schedule for the first week of AP testing. enrolled in seven AP classes, is students “familiarize themselves Grayson Horner thrilled with the change. “I am with the test format and environ- Online Editor-in-Chief excited about the new AP testing ment.” ́ AP Software? schedule,” said Brett. Mrs. Carroll is teaching one of 2021 has presented more than Brett is particularly thrilled at the exams that is scheduled to be its fair share of setbacks, and no- the prospect of “more opportunity administered in-person and not ́ Calculator? where is that more true than in the for studying, and also more time to virtually. Her advice to students is classroom. Teachers have strug- learn all of the content,” that they “should try and familiar- gled to teach course content in a AP Students are also questioning ize themselves with the in-person timely fashion, and many classes the online format of the exams and environment, and particularly the ́ Pencil? have fallen behind. are looking for more information recording devices,” This spring, the College Board from the College Board, “I am not Managing both in-person and recognized these setbacks and exactly sure what to expect from a online exams presents a new chal- decided to update the Advanced fully online exam,” said Brett. lenge for AP testers this year. Stu- ́ A Good Night’s Sleep? Placement (AP) Exam calendar While navigating the online ex- dents will be forced to familiarize significantly. The vast majority of ams will present a unique chal- themselves with two ways of tak- AP Exams will be administered af- lenge, students taking foreign lan- ing tests, and teachers will bear the ter May 18, an almost three-week guage exams will have to navigate burden of teaching them how to do ́ Breakfast? delay from the standard AP testing both online and in-person exams. it. window. The new 2021 schedule takes a But overall, the new testing The new tests have elicited many burden off of pressured teachers schedule should help teachers and different reactions, but a common and students, but students wonder students alike. According to AP theme is relief for the additional how they will use their additional Calculus Teacher Ryan Densley, time to work on assignments. Ju- time to prepare. AP Spanish teach- “this [schedule change] is a golden nior Brett Bishop, who is currently er Mrs. Carroll recommends that opportunity, don’t waste it.” Hybrid Learning Commences At Freeman Madeux Cassidy Copy Editor

When Henrico County Public Schools (HCPS) decided to allow students to return to school, Free- man students faced a decision about whether to return in-person or stay online. On March 8, 2021, Freeman welcomed back 753 stu- dents as in-person learners and commenced hybrid learning. Hy- brid learning is a new experience for most students, teachers and administrators, and poses a learn- ing curve for everyone. Many students elected to return to in-person learning. “I decided to come back in-person because I couldn’t focus while in virtual classes and I felt disconnected from my classmates,” said fresh- man Annabelle Nee. “I have ad- justed pretty well to hybrid learn- ing, I think. It is definitely easier to pay attention in my classes and I overall enjoy my classes more, but lunch isn't as fun.” PHOTO: MRS. MCMUNN I have adjusted Students attend Mrs. McMunn’s 2nd period in-person class. pretty well to hybrid nal decision on where I wanted ” said Jeremy Booher, a science learning creates a natural divide learning,” to learn for the remainder of the and math teacher at Freeman. between students which leads to Personally, “ year.” Henrico County allows stu- “It’s a tough call to make, and I different connections. “Even- af - Annabelle Nee dents to opt out of in-person at any was glad to hear how many of my ter coming back, I still don’t feel since online learning time but does not allow online stu- students were allowed to make the like people are connecting to each started I have got- On the other hand, many stu- dents to opt into in-person learn- decision for themselves.” other in the same way they would ten“ better with time dents decided to stay online. Se- ing from virtual. Despite the difficulties of- hy if we weren’t in the midst of a management. nior Alex Roever said, “When I Many students followed Gray- brid learning, students on both pandemic,”said Mr. Booher. learned of what in-person learn- son’s approach, which led to a de- sides think it has been a success. “Maybe we’ve all forgotten how -Charlotte Hare ing would be like it didn’t feel crease of total in-person learners “I think it’s kinda tricky balancing to interact with groups of people make sure you stay on top of your like real school.” The main factor to 689 students, as some students virtual with in-person students, in [a] year that we’ve been with- work since you are not with your that kept students at home was opted back into online learning. but most of my teachers are doing out.” Annabelle said. “I do not feel teacher. I have also gotten better their lunch freedom. “I can go When asked about her decision a really good job, and we all try as connected to my online class- at reaching out to teachers when I where I want during lunch, which to pull out of in-person learning, to help when we can,” said Anna- mates as my in-person classmates, need help.” is super nice,” said Alex. junior Charlotte Hare said, “Most belle Nee. because those people I get to talk Hybrid learning has been new This decision was complicated of my grade [level] did not come Charlotte Hare shared similar to during transitions and when we for everyone but Freeman has for all, and many students chose back [to] in-person, so my class sentiments from an online stu- aren’t actively doing anything, but adapted well and we will see what to sample in-person learning be- sizes were very small and none dent’s perspective. She said, “Hy- I really like my online classmates the future holds for our education. fore making their final choice. of my friends came back. If giv- brid learning has worked extreme- and I look forward to getting to The constant adjustment is one of Parents played a key role in en- en the option again [to return], I ly well. All my teachers have been know them better next year.” the effects of the pandemic and couraging an experimental period guess it would depend on whether really good about making sure Despite the estranged connec- there will certainly be more to before coming to a final decision. my friends came back in-person they are communicating with both tions, many online students have come. Sophomore Grayson Archibeque as well.” in-person and virtual students.” seen benefits. Charlotte said, “I feel like I’m still gonna be said, “I was really up in the air “I started out with about half of “I think we can all agree that, “Personally, since online learning ‘off’ next year when the hallways with my decision to either stay each of my classes returning for in- even a month later, the adjustment started I have gotten better with switch up and I finally find out home or go back, so I tried it for person. About half [of those] have to hybrid learning is still in prog- time management. It is impor- where the cafeteria is,” said An- a week to help me make that fi- since returned to virtual learning, ress,” said Mr. Booher. Hybrid tant as a virtual student to really nabelle. In Guess the Freeman Cheer- Review of the Mrs. Striker’s 5…4…3…2…1... Teacher by their leading During New Schedule Chickens iCarly Reboot Baby Picture COVID-19 Page 3 Page 6 Page 8 Page 10 Page 11 Opinions 3 School Sports: Recreational? is a stark contrast to parents “coaching” in rec leagues when we were younger, with the sole She Said She Said job to make sure the kids had fun. In high school, players have to earn their playing time, while in rec leagues, everyone gets equal playing [PHOTO] [PHOTO] time to make sure everyone gets to contribute to the game. Being a high school athlete also comes with a lot of dedication. Many, if not all, Cameron Cavender high school teams practice Cindy Xie Isabelle Hevron every single day after school. Sports Editor Opinions Editor Opinions Editor Some even watch film, and many train outside of school. Just about all of us grew This is all to become the best It’s alright, but People who don’t like up playing recreational (rec) player, the best athlete, and ul- Community and The Office have no sports, whether it was soccer, timately the best team that they The Office basketball, football, baseball, can be. Bottom line, high school Parks and Rec are sense of humor and or something else. We all athletes want to be the best, elite. think they’re better remember that one parent and they want to win. This is who brought snacks for the vastly different from rec teams than everyone else. whole team, or when the team with one team practice a week got a treat or a trophy at the to have some fun and learn the Ian Somerhalder is The Vampire Diaries Team Stefan all the end of a long, fun season. basic fundamentals of the sport. way overrated. way!!! Recently, Virginia Governor There is no pressure at the Ralph Northam classified high rec level because it’s just a school sports as “recreational.” game. There are no college However, they are far from scouts at rec sports games. Yes, Everyone who’s watched I tried to watch it, but that. We all know rec sports in high school, players should Grey’s has gone through Grey’s Anatomy growing up were a way for still have fun. There’s no rea- I refuse to sit through kids to have fun and improve son to play if you don’t enjoy a phase where they 17 seasons of people at the sports they love. High what you’re doing. But high wanted to be a surgeon... working in a hospital. school sports, on the other school athletes also have some- me included. hand, are focused on winning. thing to play for. They play There’s an old saying in rec hard to win, and maybe, just sports that “everyone’s a win- maybe, they have a chance to Couldn’t even finish the The show is interesting ner as long as you have fun”. Criminal Minds get seen by college recruiters. first episode, sorry not This is mostly the case at that It’s not all about scholarships and I <3 Spencer Reid. young age, but once you get to either; high school sports give sorry. high school, the mindset chang- players a much better chance to es. In high school and beyond, keep playing in college. They I don’t remember the It was something to get “you play to win the game” as give players an opportunity to Outer Banks former college football coach potentially play the sports they plot, but that theme through quarantine, Herm Edwards famously said. love at the next level and com- song was banging. thought it was good but The fine line between pete at an even higher level. recreational sports and All this being said, Ralph looking back at it I was competitive sports is when there Northam missed the mark when probably just bored. are tryouts where only the best he classified high school sports players make the team. In high as “recreational,” because I’ve never watched the Matthew Morrison star- school, the majority of sports they are far from it. Playing Glee are exactly this way. Coaches rec sports is important for show, but the bathroom ring in it? No thank you. are looking for the best players everyone - it’s a part of grow- scene where they sing I will never watch this and athletes to construct the best ing up - but high school sports “Telephone” is iconic. show. possible team they can. This are a completely different story. Review of the New Schedule

Cindy Xie Opinions Editor

PHOTO: SHUTTERSTOCK Usually, when someone thinks PHOTO: SHUTTERSTOCK of their “first day of school,” it is a day filled with the excitement of to be proactive and take my own minutes of work assigned per reuniting with peers and teachers, time to focus on the material.” class, and many times, it’s pos- Commentator Staff and hope of a new school year Being virtual, the part I enjoy sible to knock all of it out before filled with lasting memories. most about our new schedule lunchtime. The option to not at- Editors-in-Chief: Online Editors-in-Chief: Usually, you end the day by is that I get to sleep in for a few tend the wellness lesson during Annabelle Glassman Jack Harenchar catching up with old friends and extra minutes - every second Freeman focus on Wednesday Kieran Wall Grayson Horner gossiping about the teachers you counts. In person students benefit mornings and instead fill out an have. However, this year, my from this modified schedule as attendance Google Form is ac- well. Junior Clarke Wickham commodating to those who are Copy Editors: Design Editors: first day ended with a pounding Madeux Cassidy Kristina Kang headache and tears, not of joy, said, “I can get to all my classes not early birds - like me. With- Ella Hurlbert Russell Nystrom swelling in my eyes while I lay on with plenty of time to spare.” out the implementation of Well- the floor. From 9:00 a.m. to 3:55 Even though this new schedule ness Wednesdays, the students was a great change to fit the and teachers of Freeman would News: p.m., members of the Freeman Features: abnormal school year, there are have burned out long before the Jack Kelleher Maddie Carpenter community were staring drowsily still parts of it that students wish school year ended. We should April Miller Hank Thompson at their bright screens, barely moving throughout the whole to revise. “If I could change one all thank Wellness Wednesdays day. To say the least, it was thing about the schedule, I would for being the hero we needed. Sports: Arts & Entertainment: definitely not the ideal first day. not make it required for virtual The new schedule has received Cameron Cavender Daisy Fuller When hybrid parallel learning students to log into Freeman positive feedback from Freeman Sydney Tyler Taylor Widdifield Emily Waters started in March, the new school Focus because it only lasts one students and faculty alike. day ran from 9:10 a.m. to 2:45 minute and is right in the middle The incorporation of Wellness of lunch, which splits the break Wednesdays, two lunches, and Centerspread: Opinions: p.m. - a difference of 1 hour and 20 minutes from the original schedule. into awkward sections,’ Grace modified class times allow for Riley Speidell Isabelle Hevron said. I wholeheartedly agree with more independence for online Brooke Ward Cindy Xie This new schedule change was not only convenient for the functioning this; the attendance in Freeman students and safety precautions for of parallel hybrid learning, but Focus seems unnecessary those in person. “Nearby private Community: Photographers: necessary for the wellbeing of as we already take live schools have stuck to the previous Katherine Hynes Claire Morris students and faculty at Freeman. attendance in each class period. longer school day schedule and Elijah McDowell Emma Ridolphi After the first day of virtual In-person lunch hasn’t been per- from hearing what their students school, I felt completely drained fect, either. Clarke said, “[Dur- think about it, I believe Freeman Staff Advisor: ing lunch], it is difficult to talk to made the right decision … during Jess Pruett and unmotivated. I thought, “How will I be able to do this for the friends through the plastic shields. this difficult time,” said Morgan. The Commentator is a publication of next nine months?” Junior Grace I wish we had a little longer [time].” The new schedule is definitely a Douglas Southall Freeman High School Johnson felt similarly. “The I can’t talk about the new sched- 10/10; it’s reasonable and doesn’t ule without addressing the new feel as draining as the schedule Principal: John P. Marshall original schedule was very difficult 8701 Three Chopt Rd. Henrico, Virginia 23229 for students who had to [look] at a addition of “Wellness Wednes- we had at the beginning of the http://schools.henrico.k12.va.us/freeman/ screen for seven hours at a time, so days.” It’s pretty clear that Well- year. It was not realistic to di- Phone: (804) 673-3700 I think that moving the end of the ness Wednesdays are one of the rectly translate the schedule from [email protected] day from 3:55 p.m. to 2:45 p.m. best things to come out of this normal school years to this online school year so far. Having an school year - it had to be changed. Letters to the editor are encouraged. They must be signed before they can was a good decision,” she said. be printed. Because of variety and space, only a limited number of letters Senior Morgan VanHimbergan asynchronous day to catch up on Thankfully, I no longer have blis- can be published. The Commentator reserves the right not to print a letter. said, “With [the new schedule], I work is a big relief for students tering headaches and strained feel like I have more of my day and teachers. There are only 25 eyes by the end of each day! 4 Opinions What Time Is It? The VMFA Summer Time! The outdoor Belle Isle and Pony Pasture, grounds of the two popular spots on the river, museum are have hiking trails and festivals Great foodCarytown and throughout the summer, making perfect to enjoy many places them well-known spots around for pictures! on a warm day walking around RVA. However, there is much Bell Isle Carytown with more to Richmond than just Everyone friends is a the river. “I’d recommend go- great time loves a ing to the Circuit Arcade down- sunny day Spring town, it has very cool art and is picnic on always a fun time,” said Jonah. The James! The best way to end a sum- Around mer day, whether it is spent at the James River or the Circuit Pretty sceneryRVA! Arcade, is with music. “I love just driving around with the + cute animals Isabelle Hevron windows down and the music = a fun spring With new safety Opinions Editor blasting,” said Niamh. “It’s the thing I look forward to the most, day! precautions, the June 18, 2021. The last official honestly!” Niamh has a few go- amusement park day of the 2020-2021 school year. to songs that she will definitely Maymont is open! For most Freeman students, this be playing this summer. “I love Busch Gardens academic year “has been weird ‘The Backseat Lovers’ by Kilby and definitely stressful,” accord- Girl, and ‘The Worst Guys’ by ing to junior Niamh Preis. Classic Childish Gambino, they’re both Freeman traditions that students on my playlist,” she said. You are usually able to enjoy, includ- can also catch Jonah, a Kanye ing chanting the C.W. during pep West enthusiast, listening to “Fa- rallies, going all out in camouflage ther Stretch My Hands Pt. 1” on for Godwin games, and marching his summer drives. However, down Three Chopt Road before according to Gavin, “‘Unwrit- the homecoming game have been ten’ by Natasha Bedingfield is replaced by Microsoft Teams the best song to play in the car.” meetings and Schoology posts. Everyone has their own idea Although this year of masks and of what the perfect summer day social distancing is “starting to would be, and after all the snow feel like our new normal” said and cold this year, Freeman stu- Niamh, it seems “we’re making dents are ready for warm weath- real progress to get back our regu- er. “For me, a sunny and breezy lar life.” According to National day at the river with friends, Public Radio (NPR), over 205 good music, and yummy food is million Americans have received ideal,” said Niamh. Similarly, Jo- at least the first dose of their vac- nah’s ideal day is, “Clear skies, cine as of April 18, 2021. As the 80 degrees, and a slight breeze.” vaccine becomes more available, However, no matter the weather, Community Service Requirements: Fair? Freeman students are collec- summer helps create some of our tively hoping that in the summer best memories. “I’ll never forget of 2021, “everything is going to playing basketball at 2:00 AM get better and we are going to with my friends,” said Jonah. start transitioning back to normal Niamh also remembers meeting life,” said senior Jonah Ratner. some of her closest friends in Around Richmond, there’s a the summer. She said, “We all variety of things students are hung out almost every day, doing looking forward to during their and going to fun places, I hope PHOTO: CNN three-month break. “Spending to continue that this summer.” the day at the James River dur- Despite the 2020 school year V olunteers clean up after a tornado in Eagle Point, Alabama ing the summer, listening to mu- causing a disconnection between vice, along with transportation, be in centers, too,” Nafisa said. sic, and hanging out with friends Freeman students, Summer both of which are outside factors Most years, these issues are on the rocks is a good way to 2021 is just around the corner, Taylor Widdifield that typically are not the respon- still very prevalent, but the past get outside,” said Niamh. Se- and Virginia continues to make A&E Editor sibility of the student. “A lot of year has brought new challenges nior Gavin Jones agrees that the progress with COVID-19 vac- what goes into completing com- when it comes to community river is a great way to spend time cine distribution. “While this Many high schoolers have munity service is out of the stu- service. The pandemic has with friends. “Going down to the school year has had its obstacles, experience participating in dent’s control,” said junior Nafisa complicated things greatly, as James is always fun, it’s some- I’m keeping a positive attitude community service; oftentimes, Anjum. “That’s why I don’t think now even students who have thing I’d recommend to anyone and looking forward to having they have done so to meet a it’s really fair to require [it].” transportation and accessibility bored this summer,” said Gavin. fun this summer,” said Gavin. requirement of some sort. Specific While many schools provide centers in Henrico County, like their own opportunities for hose students the Center for Leadership here students to get their community T at Freeman, have set community service hours, some students still deserve to be able to service requirements. Nearly all rely on the county to provide be in centers, too.” states, including Virginia, have them with transportation to and “ - Nafisa Anjun no graduation requirement that from school. Even if the school involves student completion of campus has community service service hours, but many districts opportunities outside of office are left struggling to find places have optional community service, hours, that does not necessarily that allow community service. Henrico County included. make it more accessible. “A lot “Students who were already According to the county website, of people have working parents,” struggling have it even worse this optional community service said junior Virginia Johnson. with COVID,” said Virginia. awards the student with a special “What if they don’t have someone “It just doesn’t seem right.” seal on their diploma and a to drive them after school?” Participating in community notation on their transcript. Students who are in specialty service is extremely beneficial to Since completing community centers in Henrico county are many young students and those service requires transportation aware of the service requirements students deserve to be rewarded and accessibility, amongst many when they agree to be in the center, for their work. Community service other things; and this all begs the but that does not necessarily make teaches students about their question, are community service it fair. Students within centers may impact on the community around requirements fair to students? similarly find i t d ifficult to find them and encourages them to help To fulfill community service transportation or opportunities others; but when every student is requirements, students need a for community service. “Those not allowed that opportunity so multitude of things that not every students deserve to be able to easily, it is simply unfair to require. student has access to. From finding PHOTO: NIAMH PREIS places that provide students the Niamh’s favorite sumer spot, her family farm. opportunity to perform the ser- End of 3rd Quarter Memes

PHOTO: MEME GENERATOR PHOTO: MEME GENERATOR Community 5 Behind Henrico’s Plan For New 17,000-Seat Arena be constructed to the standard of Russell Nystrom the Living Building Challenge Design Editor and Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design standards (LEED), which means that the Recently, Henrico County arena will be a net positive in announced its plan to support a 2.3 energy and water, and produce billion dollar development site. zero waste. The area will feature The site is to be called “GreenCity” several aspects to promote envi- and is set on a 204-acre piece of ronmental sustainability, includ- land, will include 2 million square ing solar panels, maintenance to feet of office space, 280 thousand watersheds in the area, increased square feet of retail space, two ho- access to locally grown agricul- tels both having 300 rooms, up to ture, and an emphasis on walkabil- 2400 residential units, and its focal ity. For the residents living in the point, a 17,000 seat arena. GreenCity housing, it will just be The planned development site a quick walk to get to the grocery sits along East Parham Road and PHOTO: GREENCITY LLC store, to work, or to play, helping I-95. In 2011 the county bought alleviate the need for cars. “[Gre- this piece of land from Best enCity] will serve as a model and Products, a company that was A model mock-up plan of what the development will look like. a new standard for development in formerly headquartered there. A new company named Green- concept was a breath of fresh air – having a nice venue so [close],” Henrico. Resource protection and Originally, the county planned City LLC formed between Con- environmentally, realistically, and said Junior Brooke Pardon. “Once quality of life are of great concern to create governmental offices cord Eastridge Inc. and Future creatively,” said Tuckahoe District the proposed hotel and conference as Henrico grows. This develop- there, however, after analyzing Cities LLC will be executing the County Supervisor Pat O’Bannon. center is built, residents and busi- ment will add value to our entire the strategic location, decided project. The two priorly exist- GreenCity will feature many dif- nesses will use the facilities. Once community.” said Environmental to wait for better uses. Over the ing companies had been part of a ferent forms of entertainment for the arena is established, many area Sciences teacher Jeff Meador. years several potential projects group behind the Navy Hill pro- people of all ages to enjoy. The residents will enjoy going to con- While certain details still need had been proposed to the county. posal, but GreenCity is a larger arena plans to host everything certs and seeing professional, in- to be hashed out, many of these But, when Richmond City Council undertaking, carrying a higher from concerts to new potential door sports,” said Pat O’Bannon. questions will be answered when voted down the proposed Navy acreage and an increased emphasis indoor professional sports teams, Additionally, the site will include GreenCity LLC presents its Plan Hill project (Richmond’s plan for on environmental standards. After including ECHL Hockey and G- an emphasis on green space such of Development to the Henrico a new arena), there was a prime having received so many propos- League Basketball teams. “It will as trails, parks, and environmental County Planning Commission. opportunity for the county to als for the piece of land that the be really nice to be able to go to sustainability. The county has Currently, the arena is planned to step in and introduce their own future development will sit on, the concerts nearby. In the past, most already heralded the arena to be be completed in 2025, and the full stadium, leading to the conception GreenCity proposal was initially big concerts were held out of the “greenest arena venue in North development to be completed in of GreenCity. well-received. “The GreenCity town, so it will be very convenient America.” The arena will both 2033. NEW MAVERICKS MERCHANDISE PHOTO: TEAMLOCKER PHOTO: TEAMLOCKER PHOTO: TEAMLOCKER

Navy Admiral Stretch Ear Loop Mask. ON SALE $9.38 Navy Champion Double Dry Eco Fleece Hoodie. $43.95 White Augusta Tri-Blend Long Sleeve Crew. $30.75 You can find these Maverick spirit wear items along with many others, including hats, pullovers, and crewnecks at https://teamlocker.squadlocker.com/#/lockers/ freeman-mavericks. Orders will be fulfilled and delivered to the main office where you may pick them up when you drop off a check or cash for them. You can order or ask questions by emailing [email protected]. Richmond Volunteer Secret Sandwich Opportunity Society Review PHOTO: HANDS ON RVA Located at 501 Grace Street, Secret Sanwich Society is a hidden gem of Richmond. The cute, modern restuar- ant offers an array of sandwiches, salads, burgers, and brunch items. Only a quick 15-minute drive from Free- man, the Secret Sandwich Society is the perfect place for a quick bite to eat or a lunch date. But shhhhh.... it’s a secret.

is an orientation at the beginning relies on donations to send fami- Claire Morris of each shift. All of the tools lies age-appropriate books once a REVIEW Photographer and equipment are provided, so month. Volunteers can host drives volunteers only need to bring and collect books for donation. For those looking to be more themselves, closed-toe shoes, and Volunteers can also participate in SANDWICHES active in the community (or a lunch. Volunteers are welcome the Read-Aloud program where those who just need volunteer to sign up on their website: www. they read books to children living BRUNCH hours), Richmond has plenty richmondhabitat.org. in shelters and affordable housing. of opportunities. With so many Another local organization In order to become a part of this options available, the prospect of is Sails Angles. They provide program, volunteers must undergo PRICE searching for a volunteer position boating and river experiences training and commit to at least two might seem daunting. However, for at-risk youth and people with meetings a month for six months. there are resources to help narrow disabilities. They partner with the Volunteers must also be at least 16 AMBIANCE the search. HandsOn Greater Rich- US Navy and the University of years old to participate. To volun- mond is a great place to start when Richmond as well as other local teer for either program visit their looking for organizations and non- churches and camps. They also website: loveoflearningrva.org. COVID SAFETY profits. The website creates a list have groups that patrol the James Overall, Richmond has lots of of nearby opportunities based on River for trash collection. Since “Washington Sandwich”:

age and interests. For high school the program began in 2013, it has “We sup-

P ham, white cheddar, apple, H students, opportunities range from collected over 18 tons of debris. port passionate O

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O rosemary mayo, and greens

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S building houses for families in River debris collection takes E people making C on a toasted baguette. R E T need to reading to children. all day, but the only things that SA a meaningful ND Side of kettle cooked chips. W ICH One opportunity presented by volunteers need to bring are water SOCIETY $11.50 the website is volunteering with and a lunch. Volunteers can be change in the Habitat for Humanity. Habitat any age, but those under 17 must community” for Humanity is a national be accompanied by an adult. To -HandsOn RVA “Breakfast Burger & Soci- nonprofit with a strong presence in sign up, visit their website: www. ety Fries”: All beef patty, Richmond. They focus on building sailsangles.com, or call their opportunities for those who Gruyere cheese, sunny egg, rosemary mayo, crispy safe and affordable housing for low number: (804) 334-8877. want to volunteer. Outdoor onions on a toasted po- income families. The Richmond For those who don’t fancy the organizations such as Habitat for tato roll with Society fries. chapter was created in 1986 and great outdoors, or those who love Humanity and Sails Angels take PHOTO: KATHERINE HYNES $13.00. has since built over 300 homes. to read, Love of Learning (LOL) is advantage of the warm spring weather and get you active. If They have multiple operations another Richmond-based opportu- that isn’t your cup of tea, there going on this year, with three nity for community service. Love “Pimento Cheese Fries” are sedentary air conditioned homes under construction in May. of Learning is a local nonprofit Society fries topped with programs like Love of Learn- To be part of the construction whose goal is to help children melted homemade pimento ing. Still not striking your fancy? cheese with loaded jalapeno crew, volunteers must be at least from low income families learn to Remember to check out Hands and crumbled bacon. Gluten 16 years old. Shifts are from read. They do this through book On Greater Richmond for more Free. $9.00. 8:00am to 3:00pm on Saturdays. drives and reading programs. The ideas on their website: www. PHOTO: KATHERINE HYNES Experience is not required as there LOL Book Club is a program that handsonrva.org. 6 Special Features 7 Students of Today, Teachers Guess the Teacher by Their Baby Picture for Tomorrow for how well they do it.” to make on a daily basis,” Amanda described her and that the experience has Emma Ridolphi growth in Teachers of “truly opened my eyes to Photographer Tomorrow, saying that the things teachers have to “through my internship, deal with and overcome.” I certainly became a Lacy noted some of As Gen Z moves toward strengthen my skills as creative problem-solver.” the skills she’s fleshed adulthood, some may a teacher. An example She also described one of out while in Teachers for wonder who will take on would be if a student is her less perfected skills, Tomorrow, explaining the role of teaching future having a hard time with an saying that “if I were to how the class has “helped generations. This question activity and starts to get pursue teaching, I would her creativity a lot,” is answered by a group of upset, I have learned how need to become better at because “most people Freeman students with as- to properly deal with that.” managing challenging wouldn’t think that you pirations of teaching. Despite Rachel’s evolving behaviors.” Amanda’s have to be creative to Seniors Lacy Fisher, skillset, there are abilities role models at Freeman become a teacher, but Amanda Gagen, and Ra- that she wants to improve, have been teachers like making lesson plans chel Garland are mem- admitting “I know I have a Ms. Divina, Mr. Abril, and that will keep students bers of the Teachers for hard time with confidence Mrs. Pike. She described intrigued gets hard,” she Baby A Baby B Baby C Baby D Tomorrow class, taught and enthusiasm when these teachers as “having said. by Heather McMunn. teaching a subject to profound impacts on her Similarly, Lacy cited Despite the class’s inac- students. When there are life through a combination Mrs. McMunn as an in- tivity during COVID-19, 20+ kids looking at you, of content in their classes, spiration to her, describ- students have continued it’s a lot of pressure … As their personalities, and ing her as “amazing.” She working and pursuing I continue my internship I their faith in her.” Amanda elaborated further, saying their interest in teaching. am aware of this struggle said that she “sees some “She [Mrs. McMunn] is Rachel Garland said and try to improve myself of her peers becoming understanding and works that she wants to become everyday,” she said. teachers,” but “regardless hard to keep the class fun a teacher because she Rachel said that she of if we do teach in the and hands-on.” Lacy said “really enjoys working “sees a few of my friends future or don’t, we’ll the class “never sits and with kids,” adding that “I becoming teachers. A be better people in the listens to a lecture,” but did a summer camp with lot of them have great workplace for it.” that “we are always doing Pre-K kids and ever since potential to become teach- Lacy Fisher described projects that she plans for then, I have wanted to be ers”, but that “a lot of Teachers for Tomorrow us.” a teacher.” them are on the fence on as “not being like any Mrs. McMunn handles Rachel would prefer to whether or not that’s what other class at DSF,” arrangements with the in- teach at the elementary they want as a career.” and an “amazing way to ternship schools for her level because “everyday Amanda Gagen said she start the day.” Lacy also students, but Lacy said I’d be able to teach a little plans to become a profes- detailed the curriculum of she “still does an amaz- of each subject,” she said, sor because she “enjoys the program, saying that ing job, not only with T4T “I think to be a teacher, the idea of working with “we learn how to make [Teachers for Tomorrow], Baby E Baby F Baby G Baby H you definitely need to be young professionals.” and teach lesson plans but with all her other enthusiastic and energetic Teaching is an that actual teachers have classes.” in order to keep the kids “appealing career path” attention … another trait to her because “it would Name Bank you have to have is a lot be beyond amazing to be of patience.” able to inspire and impact Mrs. Beard Mrs. Hunnicutt Mr. Lewis While in her internship students lives as they Mr. Pruett at Teachers of Tomorrow, [teachers] have [done] for Rachel has “been able me.” Amanda described Mr. Lovering Ms. Vest Mrs. Walthall Mrs. Curry to go into an elementary ideal teaching traits like

school classroom and get “patience, empathy, and

Baby G: Mr. Pruett Baby H: Mrs. Curry Mrs. H: Baby Pruett Mr. G: Baby the real experience.” She creativity” as “essential,” Baby A: Mr. Lovering Baby B: Mrs. Beard Baby C: Mr. Lewis Baby D: Mrs. Hunnicutt, Baby E: Mrs. Walthall Baby F: Ms. Vest Vest Ms. F: Baby Walthall Mrs. E: Baby Hunnicutt, Mrs. D: Baby Lewis Mr. C: Baby Beard Mrs. B: Baby Lovering Mr. A: Baby said, “This has definitely saying that “teaching been an opportunity to certainly isn’t an easy job, PHOTO: MRS. MCMUNN and I admire my teachers Students attend Mrs. McMunn’s Teachers for Tomorrow class. Freeman Teachers Who Went to Freeman Which Fictional Teacher Are You? Jack Kelleher 3. On the first day of school I News Editor 1. My favorite color is... 2. My favorite subject is... a. black a. math would... a. establish rules In what may be a sur- social studies teachers b. yellow b. science prise to some students, for the job, eventually ac- c. red c. music b. take a field trip many of Freeman’s teach- cepting the job, and she c. watch a movie ers are actually alumni. has been here ever since. Lara Curry Andrew 4. I can’t start class without... 5. On the weekends I like to... 6. If I wasn’t a teacher I Moore PHOTO: THE HISTORIAN PHOTO: THE HISTORIAN PHOTO: THE HISTORIAN a. take time for myself One of the teachers who Senior portraits of Mrs. Curry, Mr. Moore, and Mr. Densley. a. a lesson plan would... went to Freeman High Another Freeman alum port News before coming as murals and artwork in b. scout out new places to School is history teacher who is teaching here at b. keys to the bus a. do something for the good y goal Ryan Densley to Freeman. Mr. Dens- the halls. Mrs. Curry did Lara Curry. Part of the Freeman is baseball coach M show my students ley said “[I] did dream of note a change in perspec- Class of 2003, she went and Latin teacher Andrew then became c. my guitar of society Ryan Densley is anoth- one day coming back as a through college at Mary Moore. Part of the Class to try to come c. practice music in my room er teacher who attended [teacher],” but COVID-19 I did b. drive a school bus Washington planning to do of 2003 along with Mrs. back“ home to Freeman and is now a made his path to get here dream of one something in the field of Curry, he started teaching c. be a musician Freeman” teacher. Younger than the a little different. Instead history, as it was her “fa- in Hanover County at a day coming back - Andrew Moore other two Freeman alums, of planning to come teach vorite subject while here couple different schools for Mr. Densley’s student ex- as“ a teacher” at Freeman this year, Mr. at Freeman.” Besides stu- three years before coming back home to Freeman if it perience was more similar Densley came in as a long - Ryan Densley dent teaching, teaching at to Freeman. He applied in was going to be possible.” to the one students have term substitute for math Freeman was her first job. fall 2009 to be Freeman’s Because his father was now. For example, “Mr. teacher Mrs. Conway. tive between now and her After applying to teach baseball coach, where he also a Freeman alumni, Peck, Mrs. Curry, and One sentiment echoed time as a high schooler. at Henrico County, she started in the spring of he already had a special Mr. Larkins were three of among the teachers is how Instead of a “naive 18 was informed that a his- 2010. He became a teacher connection to the school my favorite teachers and Freeman compared to year old” perspective of tory teacher at Freeman at Freeman shortly thereaf- and the community. He they are all still here.” their time as students . For Freeman as the ‘perfect had decided not to re- ter in the 2010-2011 school views teaching as a way Originally a history teach- example, Mr. Densley and school,’ she sees it more turn. So she met with and year. Mr. Moore said that to “make a difference in er, Ryan Densley now Mr. Moore both said how realistically , as a “great was interviewed by then- after he decided to con- people’s lives” and be- teaches math classes here similar Freeman is now to place...that I love teach-

PHOTO: HERO.FANDOM.COM PHOTO: PHOTO: HERO.FANDOM.COM PHOTO:

at Freeman. He taught for ing [at]… but you also HERO.FANDOM.COM PHOTO: ) Rock of School ( Finn Dewey c: Mostly ) Schoolbus Magic The ( Frizzle Miss b: Mostly ) Serise Potter Harry Freeman principal Mrs. tinue teaching, “my goal cause of that, he wanted their time here, albeit with ( Snape Professor a: Mostly Ann Poates and other then became to try to come to teach at Freeman. two years at Gildersleeve some added details such see the flaws that need to Middle School in New- be fixed,”said Mrs. Curry. 8 Features

DSF’s Star-Setter iker’s Chi tr ck Maddie Carpenter S e Features Editor . s History teacher Katie Striker n r and her family take care of s This season, junior Evie Gouldin pet chickens. Below are some is a new addition to the varsity M questions and answers about girls volleyball team, and she has already made a large impact. her unique pets. Evie began her volleyball career How long have you had chickens, and how in eighth grade when she made many do you have? Freeman’s junior varsity (JV) vol- leyball team. “I started [volley- “We have had chickens for just about two ball] because my friend Meredith, years. We currently have four hens. They who is also on the team, encour- are Plymouth Barred Rock breed, and each aged me to randomly try out so we member of my family named a bird. We could play together,” said Evie. “I have Esther (mine), Mrs. Bawky Squawky (my had barely ever touched a volley- ball, but I tried out in eighth grade 7-year old’s), Spinderella (my husband’s), and somehow made the team.” and Hey Hey (my 9-year old’s). We just got Evie played on the JV team for her two more chicks that we will add to the eighth grade, freshman, and soph- flock once they are old enough to be out- omore years. On JV, Evie played side full time. The new chicks are Black Sex- as a libero, a back-row defensive specialist, until about halfway links. Both breeds are known for being cold, through the season last year, when hardy, and being prolific egg layers. We “[her] coach randomly switched don’t heat the coop in the winter because [her] to setter, which [she] ended that is a huge fire danger, so I wanted to up liking a lot more,” according make sure they could take whatever cold to Evie’s mom, Shelley Gouldin. PHOTO: ERIKA GLASS PHOTO: ERIKA GLASS As the starting setter on varsity Evie waits for the play to start. that she would not have met if she snaps we get.” this year, it is Evie’s responsibility was not on the team. “My favor- the county or even in the school, to get every second touch and set ite part about being on the Free- but her willingness to learn and What made you decide that you want the ball up in the perfect place for man girls volleyball team is our hard work is what makes her chickens as pets? the hitters to get kills. “Setters are really great team dynamic,” said stand out,” said Coach Lovering. “A good friend of mine has lots of chickens, often compared to the quarterback Evie. “It is just a really positive “[She] is willing to make the hard in football,” said Evie’s team- and uplifting environment, and ev- and they are pretty easy to care for. We play and take the blame when mate Meredith Murphy. “She’s eryone is friends with each other.” check their food, water, and collect eggs things don’t go the way we plan.” a part of almost every play.” Currently, Evie does not plan Despite her minimal experience daily. We clean out the entire coop once a One aspect of Evie’s game that to play volleyball in college but as a setter, Evie has impressive month and run as needed. We feed them has changed dramatically this is very excited about continuing statistics. A member of a 14-per- our food scraps, and sometimes I give them year is her confidence. “Now that in Freeman’s volleyball program son team, Evie not only leads [Evie] has found her position as a next year. “This season was re- treats like watermelon or a head of let- in assists, but also has the 5th setter, she has gained confidence, ally fun and successful for me tuce in the summer when it’s really hot. To most aces (unreturnable serves), especially since eighth grade,” and the team,” said Evie. “I think and has the 5th most digs (good be honest, they are the easiest animals we said Mrs. Gouldin. “She is still next year will be even better.” passes from the other teams’ hits). own! We also liked the idea of having our hard on herself to always do bet- Not only does Evie love being own fresh eggs and having fewer ticks in the ter, but she is much more comfort- on the volleyball team because of able in the rotations and serving.” yard since chickens eat them.” the gameplay, but she also great- t is just a Girls volleyball coach Drew I ly values the friendships she has Lovering said that Evie has been made over the years as a result really positive and What is your favorite thing about having “an excellent surprise to this sea- of playing for Freeman. Most of chickens? son’s team.” He accredits much uplifting environ- the girls on the team this year are “They actually have a lot of personality. It’s of the team’s success to Evie’s people that Evie has played within ment.”“ positive attitude and coachability. reallly interesting to watch them when we past years, so she has been able “She does not have as much ex- let them free range out of their run. You start to make friendships with people - Evie Gouldin perience as other setters around to learn how they communicate with each other and what their different noises mean. Sophomore Lily Davis Racing on the River For example, we can tell when one of them has been seperated from the others and is Daisy Fuller looking for the rest and when they want out of the run.” A&E Editor What is the most challenging part of having Learning the art of teamwork chickens? is essential, especially when “They really aren’t hard at all. The only part you could literally sink without is remembering not to let the dogs outside it. Sophomore Lily Davis is no when the chickens are free ranging, and stranger to this concept, as she is a rower for River City Crew keeping an ear out when they are free (RCC), a local organization. “I ranging. We had a fox attack last summer, started rowing two and a half and once, we let the dog out while they years ago after I had first heard were out. No chicken was seriously harmed about [rowing] from my friend,” beyond missing feathers and being a bit... said Lily. Rowing is Lily’s main athletic interest, and she ruffled so to speak. I guess the only thing rows for two seasons each year. that has been somewhat challenging is that “[Lily’s] strongest quality is we had a sick hen last fall, and trying to her optimism. She strives to figure that out and give her medicine was improve and raise the bar for a little tricky. Everything turned out just fine everyone else in the boat,” said junior Rachel Gordon, a fellow though!” rower and Freeman Maverick. The two girls, along with the rest of their team, spend lots of time PHOTO: LILY DAVIS together on and off the water. Lily rows with her teammates. “[Rowing] is heavily reliant on also not been able to compete a lot of time commitment.” When teamwork,” said Lily, “you build in competitions this season. Lily and her team are not training bonds with people. Some of my “[Rowing] competitions are called in the water, they are most best friends are on the team.” regattas,” said Lily “we compete likely running or weightlifting. Aside from workouts and training with multiple other teams in a race- on land, Lily said “Practice like fashion.” Lily and her team ily has been usually lasts an hour and a half. often have to travel hours away for L We’re out on the water [rowing] regattas, but this season they have an important mem- for usually an hour, then we take stayed at home training for when ber of RCC since she the boats in.” Along with many they can once again compete. started“ rowing with other teams, Lily’s team has had “Lily has been an important us.” to adjust to the regulations and member of RCC since she start- precautions put in place because ed rowing with us,” said Tom - Tom O’Rourke of COVID. “Right now, I am row- O’Rourke, Lily’s crew coach at PHOTO: KATIE STRIKER ing a boat just myself, because RCC. Coach O’Rourke commends For inspiration, Lily looks Mrs. Striker’s chicken roams around the yard. Lily’s hard work and discipline up to a variety of college-level ome of my when it comes to rowing. “Lily rowers and teams. Lily said, “I S has worked hard to improve as a would say I look up to [rowers] best friends are on rower, getting faster, and by doing from Boston College, Boston so, has pushed other team mem- University, Michigan, Clemson, the“ team.” bers to become better rowers.” and UVA.” Lily is very open - Lily Davis “[Lily] gives her all at every to the idea of rowing in college practice,” said Rachel “She has but is keeping her options open. been an asset by always looking on “I would say the whole sport is of coronavirus, but [before] I the positive side and encouraging not really talked about,” Lily rowed with three other people,” others to do their best as well.” explained, “but it is a lot differ- said Lily. Pre-coronavirus, Lily Although Lily loves rowing, she ent than what I thought.” Lily would often row with groups of believes there are many difficult said she would “definitely rec- three or seven other RCC rowers. aspects of the sport. “It requires a ommend” rowing to any Free- In addition to changes with lot of endurance and building up man students who may be in- PHOTO: LILY DAVIS practices, Lily’s team has your stamina,” said Lily, “and it is terested in trying a new sport. Lily rows with her teammates. Features 9 Reimagining Education: Teaching From Home aren’t just sitting. However, is- be related, but they had to pretend like they were related,” she said. Kristina Kang sues with technology and the lack of face-to-face communica- When it comes to Mrs. Beard’s Design Editor tion make group work difficult. response to challenges, it is “not In response to these challenges, necessarily a tech response, [but] With many teachers and stu- Mrs. Bleecher said, “I’m try- a response from the heart,” said dents returning to school in-per- ing to think about the social and Mrs. Beard. She looks for stu- son and vaccinations on the way, emotional learning piece and dents having trouble and tries a hint of “normal” pre-COVID just all [of] the collective trauma to accommodate that person as life is coming back- faculty and that we’re all going through.” much as possible in an effort to students interacting with one Mrs. Bleacher’s understanding create relationships, she said. In another and teachers leading has reached sophomore Takiyah general, Mrs. Beard said, “I try in-person discussions are just a Banks.“She realizes how hard vir- to talk about how hard things are few of the “normal” things some tual is for some people,” she said. with you guys just to be real.” Mavericks are beginning to ex- As a result, Takiyah feels like she Avery Edmondson, a sophomore perience again. But what about PHOTO: MRS. BEARD PHOTO: MRS. BLEACHER is given enough time to complete in Mrs. Beard’s Spanish IV class, the teachers who stayed home? Teachers Mrs. Beard and Mrs. Bleecher pose from their homes work, gets a thorough understand- believes that Mrs. Beard is suc- When the county decided that the virtual environment has made to think there’s something more ing of the material, and that her cessful even when teaching from teachers and students could go back it harder to gauge how students are that I could do to help someone.” voice is heard. “If we want to try home because she is “understand- to school, teachers who were high feeling. “[Normally], I’m look- In terms of the classwork, both something in class, then she works ing [and] truly so compassionate risk or had high-risk family mem- ing for nonverbal cues for people teachers have had to fully adjust it out so that we can,” said Takiyah. about teaching and helping her bers had to decide whether or not who are lost or overwhelmed,” she their teaching styles. A pre-COV- Similarly, senior Claire Rankin students.” From technology is- to apply to teach from home. “This said. However, without being able ID class in Mrs. Beard’s classroom believes that both Mrs. Bleech- sues to emotional issues, Mrs. whole year has been a year of deci- to see students face to face in the included writing on the board, er’s knowledge of French and Beard handles the situation well, sions,” said Spanish teacher Mrs. “inviting and safe environment” discussions, group work, and pre- her ability to connect to students explained Avery. “She always Beard. Having a high-risk family sentations. “I’m a nerd with my “academically and personally” makes sure everyone is up to member and younger children, she his whole clipboard and I move around my helps make students feel valued. speed and allows for activities that went through an extensive process. T classroom being all nosy and [ask- Mrs. Bleecher said with the vir- work for both groups,” said Avery. “We talked with the doctor a lot, year has been a year ing], ‘what are you doing, what tual environment, she has made While the pandemic has made we talked to the pediatrician...to of decisions” are you talking about?’”, said Mrs. her teaching more project-based, teaching and learning a bit more try and make informed decisions, “ - Mrs. Beard Beard. However, during the virtual difficult for some people, Mrs. and it was a very heavy decision.” year, it’s difficult to make her class She works it Bleecher hopes that schools can Mrs. Bleecher, a new French she likes to create with her class- as “student-led and community- out so that we can.” take away something positive from teacher at Freeman, decided to room, she feels there is an “uncom- focused” as it typically is.“It just this experience. She hopes schools stay online due to a previous inju- - Takiyah Banks fortable level of loss of control.” takes so much longer to teach the can use this as a “springboard ry. “The thought of doing the vir- Similarly, Mrs. Bleecher also “ [for] rethinking and reimagining grammar, and [that] is what I have tual and all of the COVID proto- feels that it’s harder to connect to to teach,” she said. “There are oth- as she wants to give students to education” and see “what it means cols was kind of overwhelming,” students who don’t always show er things in the curriculum but you learn in a creative way. Recently, to really like to learn and how is she said. “Already, it’s just taking up or students who have a hard can’t write about ecotourism if in her French I class where stu- this going to enrich [our] lives.” me longer to do my job now.” time completing their assign- you don’t know the future tense.” dents explored the family unit, Teaching in the virtual environ- ments. “What can I do to help Similarly, Mrs. Bleecher she had students make a fictional ment has made it difficult for teach- these kids? Because at the end would normally have more in- family tree. “It could be movie ers to connect with students. For of the day that’s what we’re here teractive games where students characters and they didn’t have to Mrs. Beard, who is a “big feeler”, for,” she said. “It’s upsetting to me On the Road to Normalcy PHOTO: IAN DONELLAN Teacher’s Perspective: Pfizer vaccine from her pediatrician. to normal things,” said Sabrina. The Virtual to Hybrid Riley Speidell Although Sydney is usually nervous As far as side effects, Sabrina Centerspread Editor about going to the doctor to get was not worried for her first dose. Learning Transition shots, she was “ecstatic to go to the Similar to Sydney’s experience, Is normalcy on the horizon? Af- doctor this time around,” she said. Sabrina said she, “was a little with Mrs. Rabon ter over a year of the COVID-19 Through the news and other forms tired and my arm was a little sore, pandemic, there are three main vac- of media, Sydney had heard about but other than that I was fine.” 1. What was your class- potential side effects that came- af After receiving the second dose, cines that have passed the testing room like before COVID? stages and are available to the pub- ter getting the COVID-19 vaccine. Sabrina’s side effects were more in- lic: Pfizer, Moderna, and Johnson “I wasn’t too concerned for my first tense. “I was really tired and achy. I “It was 30+ students in a class and Johnson. Of these, Pfizer is the dose, but I am a bit more worried also experienced a lot of nausea and a and were packed together like only vaccine currently available to about the second dose,” Sydney said headache with a fever,” said Sabrina. sardines. My class was always people under the age of 18. A few after her first dose of the vaccine. Once her vaccine is fully effective, Freeman High School students have Leaving the doctor’s office - af Sabrina is looking forward to spend- very social and collaborative.” received a portion of this vaccine. ter her first shot, Sydney felt, ing time with her friends in a more Junior Ian Donellan has received “more uplifted, like things will normal setting. “I’ll actually be 2. What was your class maybe go back to normal soon.” able to hang out with [my friends] Ian Donellan displaying his the first dose of the Pfizer vaccine. like virtually? Going into his vaccination appoint- Other than a slight soreness and without masks and not distanced. vaccine card ment, Ian was feeling a little anx- fatigue, Sydney said that she did Up until now, we’ve been out- said. “I’m really excited to eat din- “My setup was in my dining ious. “I was nervous and didn’t re- not experience any side effects. side and spread out,” Sabrina said. ner with my grandparents again.” room, with a make-shift desk ally know what to expect,” said Ian. Unfortunately, the same can- Sabrina coaches gymnastics at Senior Margaux Shimick has overlooking my backyard. At “It’s never fun going to an unfamil- not be said for the second dose of Above the Bar, and working with received both doses of the Pfiz- first, I tried to engage students, iar place, especially to get a shot.” the vaccine. “The second dose hit young kids in a pandemic has er vaccine and was feeling the but that was frustrating, as I did Despite his uneasiness regard- a little harder than the first; I was been very different for her. “It same excitement as many others not know them and they did not ing the location, Ian was not con- achey, tired, and ran a fever for a when she got her vaccine. “Get- know me. It made for a long day. cerned about the possible side ef- few hours afterwards,” Sydney said. ’m really ex- ting the shot made me hopeful Thankfully, seniors I’ve known fects of the vaccine. “I was aware Although only a few of Syd- I that life will go back to normal from years past provided engag- of the possibilities, but the positives ney’s friends have gotten vacci- cited to eat dinner soon… and I won’t have any more ment.” of being vaccinated outweighed nated, her mother “is fully vac- with my grandpar- COVID scares,” Margaux said. those for me,” he said. Ian has not cinated already because she got ents“ again.” She is also hopeful for a more nor- experienced any major changes in the [Johnson and Johnson] shot.” mal year next year as it will be her 3. What is your class like his daily life due to his, “already Aside from getting back to dai- - Sabrina Layton first year as a high school graduate. ly life, Sydney is most excited with the hybrid system? pretty COVID-friendly lifestyle.” will be nice to go to work and not “I am hopeful that by college next to go to concerts. “Once every- Ian’s father received the vaccine worry about catching [COVID-19] year most people will have gotten one is vaccinated, I can’t wait to “It is great to be back in the class- the same day as Ian. “We actually while I’m there,” Sabrina said. [vaccinated] so I can have a normal go back to concerts. Now we’re room and finally put a face to the got to sit at the table together and She is also looking forward to college experience,” said Margaux. one step closer,” said Sydney. name with in-person students. I get them back to back,” said Ian. spending more time with her fam- Students who have received Junior Sabrina Layton has also still maintain the same format, Like his peers, Ian is anxious to ily. “Both my parents and grand- the vaccine are looking for- received both doses of the Pfizer expectations, and engagement as return to a more normal lifestyle. parents are fully vaccinated and ward to spending more in-person vaccine from her doctors’ office. I did before...I feel both in-person Junior Sydney Greiner received my other three siblings have gotten time with the people they have “I was ready to get the vaccine and virtual students are recieving the first and second doses of the their second doses as well,” Sabrina been missing over the past year. and am just excited to get back the same quality education.”

“almost nothing” said Mr. Peck. “He Eli. “I wish I could go back.” Junior Studies Abroad in Costa Rica did a great job managing it all.” did the entire application in a day.” where we had to wear our masks Eli Schulman had an “amaz- The Monteverde CIEE program al- and social distance.” After the quar- ing time” in Costa Rica. He got to It was one of April Miller lowed Eli to continue his education antine, however, the Monteverde experience the local culture, help the best experiences News Editor while being involved in local culture. participants were in a “COVID out on the farm, and participate of my life.” This included working on a farm bubble” and only had to follow CO- in various outings while still at- “ Eli Schulman didn’t expect to be and going on various excursions. VID guidelines on excursions where tending school. “It was one of the - Eli Schulman traveling to Costa Rica 11 months “We milked the cows, picked coffee they would interact with people out- best experiences of my life,” said into a global pandemic. But on Feb- beans, cleared weeds, and planted side of the bubble. “It was very well ruary 15, Eli, a junior in the Leader- saplings,” said Eli, describing his done,” said Eli. “I felt very safe.” ship Center, boarded a 7-hour flight volunteer service in Costa Rica. Aside from the COVID protocols, to Costa Rica, where he would be However, the trip wasn’t all work- there was another adjustment Eli living as a member of a high school weekend excursions that included had to make: wake-up times. “We study-abroad program for a month. “ziplining and waterfall hiking” were on Costa Rica time, so I had The Council on International were the “highlights of [the] trip”. to get up an hour earlier,” he said. Educational Exchange (CIEE), is “[An] aspect of the program that “It made meal times pretty weird a study-abroad program for high I enjoyed,” said Eli’s mom, Millie as well.” However, the time differ- school and college students in which Becker, “was the COVID proto- ence did not affect his schoolwork. students across the country have cols. I wasn’t nervous at all about “Even while I was in Costa Rica, I the opportunity to “immerse them- him going [to Costa Rica] because was still turning in my assignments selves in other cultures and have it seemed so safe.” Due to the pan- and getting stuff done,” said Eli. a great time doing it,” said Eli. He demic, the CIEE has implemented “If he hadn’t told me he was [trav- heard about the CIEE from a fam- multiple safety requirements, in- eling to Costa Rica], I wouldn’t have ily friend who also participated, and cluding, “quarantines, tests, and a known,” said Mr. Peck, Eli’s Ethics decided to research it more on his COVID bubble,” said Mrs. Becker. teacher. “He turned in all of his work own. “I actually only heard about “We took a test when we arrived,” on time and attended every class- [the program] the day before the ap- said Eli, “and then we were in a with his camera on.” Apart from the semi-quarantine for about a week, two days he was traveling, Eli missed PHOTO: MILLIE. BECKER plication was due,” said Eli. “I just Eli helping on a local farm in Costa Rica 10 Sports

Freeman Cheerleading During COVID-19 PHOTO: EMILY WALTHALL us appreciate the time we have to Emily Waters compete and practice together,” Sports Editor said junior Charlotte Hare. Lacy Fisher, senior captain on From a global pandemic to a both competition and sideline, mascot change, there have been said “the girls are the absolute best many differences in day-to-day part about being on the team.” life at Freeman this year. Cheer- Looking toward the future, “as leading, both sideline and com- far as we know, our next season petition, has been no exception will be back to normal,” Coach since tryouts began in the first Walthall said. “We’re so thankful week of February. to have had a season, but are defi- “It was still so fun to be able to PHOTO: EMILY WALTHALL nitely looking forward to return- cheer for the team but everything The sideline cheer team poses for a group picture. ing to normalcy.” felt so different without all of the sport has “been in stunting, as “There are just a few cheers that grit and determination the whole The team will, however, look fans and student section. I missed there are so many restrictions,” we’ll leave behind because Mav- team [has] shown … because of a little bit different in one way the energy from the crowd,” said she said. ericks doesn’t fit in the wording,” the hurdles and shortened sea- next year. “We have five seniors competition and sideline captain “We weren’t allowed to do bas- Coach Walthall said. Because sons, I feel like our team has on our sideline team and three Sydney Stokes. “Friday nights kets or pyramids,” said junior Freeman students got to vote on bonded more this year than ever.” on our competition team,” Coach didn’t feel the same without the Kelly Mollenauer. “We really had the new mascot, Coach Walthall Many of the team members Walthall said. “They are all lead- full stadium,” she said. to get creative with stunts to put said that “Mavericks have a lot of shared this sentiment. “I think ers and have helped to shape and in the routine, since we were lim- support” and added that “all-in- having so much time off made grow our program into what it is Friday nights ited on what we could do but still all, it has been a great process.” today.” didn’t feel the same wanted to earn difficulty points on “The coaches, the Varsity girls, I think hav- “I think I’ll miss their natural the score sheet [at competition].” and all of my fellow teammates ing so much time off leadership the most,” said junior without the full sta- The switch to ‘Mavericks,’ ac- were so incredible and helpful,” Charlotte Hare. “That is a lot of dium.”“ cording to Coach Walthall, has not said JV cheerleader Addison Yo- made us appreciate talent and strength to replace, but - Sydney Stokes been as challenging for the cheer cum. the“ time we have to hopefully we will all just take team as she expected. “Truthfully, “With all the hard work and compete and practice what we learned from them the “This year is so different than I thought the mascot transition learning this season took, tons of together.” past couple of years and be able any other year,” said Coach Em- was going to be more difficult support came with it,” said Coach to teach the younger groups com- ily Walthall. A big change to the than it has been,” she said. Walthall. “[I’m] so proud of the - Charlotte Hare ing in.” The New Look of Spring Sports Fall Sports Recap project our voices during games, taken from you,” he explained. Hank Thompson so a big focus this year is mak- In addition to the check-ins and Boys Volleyball Features Editor ing sure players learn to make in- masks, social distancing is a cen- “The season started out rough but dependent decisions on the field tral aspect of sports this year, as and become more cerebral,” said contract tracing has the potential we came together and worked hard Spring is typically character- Seegar. “It can be hard to breathe to make entire position groups, to improve our record as the season ized by its warm weather, bright in the masks, but I would rather and even teams, ineligible to flowers, Spring Break, and up un- progressed” -Austin Fisher wear a mask than lose my sea- play. Junior girls varsity lacrosse til last year, spring sports. Spring son,” said junior Barry Jones, player, Emma Jacoby, explained, sports have returned as somewhat who plays varsity soccer. “We don’t get near the JV team Girls Volleyball of a breath of fresh air, however, to avoid wiping out both teams in “This was the best season I've they are not without some new case of a covid outbreak.” ever played in my 4 years of be- changes and modifications. It can be hard “It [social distancing] really Athletes experience changes to breathe in the ing on the team. Although it was hasn’t impacted the way we put as soon as they arrive to prac- shortened, we played our hard- masks, but I’d rather together drills,” said Seegar. tice. Following their temperature est, and our team was the closest wear“ a mask than “The issue is more so getting the check, players are read a list of guys to space out when waiting we have ever been.” - Brooke COVID-19 symptoms questions, lose my season.” in line” Farrey expected to answer “no” to all. - Barry Jones Senior varsity baseball player, To many, a nuisance, yet to Bill Travis Montgomery, said, “We’re Cross Country Seegar, assistant lacrosse coach, Most share this sentiment. After usually pretty physical in the Girls he has found some positives in his first Freeman lacrosse -prac dugout, giving high-fives and cel- “Our season was great andwe re- this perceived “hassle.” “It en- tice in over a year, junior var- ebrating, so I can see the distanc- ally bonded as a team as a whole courages players to arrive early sity lacrosse player Dell Vidunas ing aspect affecting our spirit.” and allows us to start practice this season.”-Madelyn Miller said, “It feels great to finally be However, this season comes with with everybody present,” said Boys back out here with the boys.” some silver lining. The baseball Seegar. “We’ve approached [this season] team finally had a chance to- il “I really like how we all help During practice itself, play- with the mindset that this is not luminate their brand new score- each other out and push one ers and coaches are expected to an opportunity we can take for board, put up last spring, for the another when we need it” remain distanced and masked. granted, because we all know first time. “The masks definitely make it -Walker Beck what it is like to have a season For the softball team, they will harder for us to coach players and finally have the opportunity to Football christen their field, which has sat “It was a short season, but we unused for over two years. Senior were able to play and didn’t softball player, Maggie Lithin- cum said, “I think the new field take anything for granted. It will definitely raise spirits on was awesome to get somewhat the team since us seniors haven’t of a senior season.” -Andrew played a home game on that field Bland since we were freshmen.” Another difference most will notice this season is the altered Field Hockey schedule, both in game reduction “The field hockey season this and opponent limitation. For ex- year showed much improvement ample, the lacrosse team, typical- ly traveling as far as Charlottes- from our first game to our last ville for games, is now confined and we grew as a team, our re- to play local in-county teams. cord doesn’t reflect our strengths “While playing only local teams in the game.” -Kala McGehee will certainly be easier, I don’t think it will prepare us for the Competition Cheer teams we will face in the tourna- “This season was amazing despite ment,” said Vidunas. Regardless of the new look of all the hardships we faced! The spring sports at DSF, many stu- coaches and all the girls worked ex- tremely hard to make the outcomes while playing of our competitions the best they only local teams will could be! Next season is going to be certainly be easier, even better!”- Lacy Fisher I“ don’t think it will prepare us for the teams we will play in Golf the tournament.” “Despite a couple of frustrating - Dell Vidunas losses to Godwin and Deep Run, I feel like the season has been a dents are glad to finally be able great success.”- Travis Moore to play the sport they love, after a long hiatus.

PHOTO: BILL MCCLURE plays in a lacrosse game during the 2019 season. Junior Dell Vidunas Arts & Entertainment 11

PHOTO: WIKIPEDIA

In 5…4…3…2…1...iCarly called iCarly with her best friends a stepdaughter. Laci Mosely will Sam and Freddie, in the apart- also be joining as Harper, “Car- ment loft that she and her older ly’s roommate and best friend.” Reboot brother Spencer live in. Over Cat Pinotti also predicts that there the course of the series, the gang will be “tons of crazy guest stars.” Katherine Hynes goes on adventures together as If you’re looking to catch up Community Editor they work through the ups and on the original series before the downs of friendship, growing up, reboot comes out, the first two Prepare for a blast from the past and producing a viral web show. seasons are available on Netf- and a recollection of childhood In the final episode “iGoodbye,” lix and all six seasons are avail- memories because this Decem- Carly decided to move to Italy able on Paramount+. A premium ber, ViacomCBS announced that with her father, Colonel Shay, subscription to Paramount+ the Nickelodeon series iCarly will and end her webcast. While it is costs $10.00 a month and in- be revived on Paramount+, the unknown where the show will cludes programs from CBS, company’s rebranded streaming pick up after all these years, it MTV, Nickelodeon, and more. service. Although there is not an has been confirmed that the show “The original was really funny, exact release date yet, the show will follow the characters in their so it will be hard to beat,” ju- is set to premiere in 2021 and the adult lives. Senior Cat Pinotti nior Lucas Hite said. “The char- cast members are already on set. said that she is “excited to see acters really made the show The show’s lead, Miranda Cos- all the characters grown-up and great. My favorite character grove, along with costars Jerry see how their lives turned out.” from the original was Gibby, Trainor and Nathan Kress, are According to ViacomCBS’ of- so I really hope he returns.” set to reprise their roles as Carly After Hours’ ficial description, the 2021 iCarly “It will be interesting to see Shay, Spencer Shay, and Freddie reboot will serve as “a new chap- which way they decide to take Benson, respectively. No other ter for the most successful kids’ the show. I wonder if it will be actors of previous characters sitcom of all time.” The descrip- similar to the original or a com- have stated that they will be re- tion continues, “Original cast pletely new [series],” said Megan. Concerts turning. Only Jennette McCurdy, members Miranda Cosgrove, Na- While much is still unknown, who played Sam Puckett, has than Kress, and Jerry Trainor join the reboot of the hit show iCar- said she will likely not return for new friends for a look at these ly is soon to come, hopefully the show’s reboot. McCurdy has characters’ present-day lives, ad- with lots of random dancing. retired from acting and is transi- ventures and comedic mishaps.” Reopening tioning into writing and directing. Paramount+ also announced on Sophomore Megan McBride Twitter that “the 13-episode sea- keep its audience entertained. “can’t wait to watch the reboot son follows Carly Shay and her “The corndogs were my favorite with [her] family and compare it Brooke Ward friends as they navigate work, Centerspread Editor because they’re so big,” said to the original.” “I’m most excited love, and family in their twenties.” Gina, “but the food was really for T-Bo, or Mrs. Benson, to re- According to Paramount+, there expensive, so I would try to turn because they always spiced will also be two new characters. As the warm weather approaches, eat before.” Despite the pricey up the original show,” said Megan. One being Jaidyn Triplett, who PHOTO: MIRANDA COSGROVE Richmond venues full of mu- food and drink, however, the The original series followed the will be playing Millicent, “Fred- INSTAGRAM sic and dancing are opening up lemonade booth was a notable life of Carly Shay, a teenage girl die’s snarky and social media-sav- again, offering events that will favorite of many concert-goers. Miranda Cosgrove on set who creates her own web show vy stepdaughter.” Yes, Freddie has surely give the exhausted students “Innsbrook After Hours attract- of the Richmond area something ed people of all ages: teenagers, to look forward to. One of these young adults, and parents who all Freeman Debuts the venues is After Hours Concerts, want to enjoy live music,” said formerly known as Innsbrook Af- sophomore Betty-Grace Thomp- ter Hours, and is scheduled to re- son. The large audiences often at open on Friday, May 14 after be- concerts, however, can damage “Marching Mavericks” ing shut-down due to COVID-19. the experience. “I prefer socializ- Innsbrook After Hours was an ing at concerts because sometimes Ella Hurlbert outdoor concert venue located it’s hard to get a good spot to listen Copy Editor in the business and residential to [the] music,” said Betty-Grace. community of Innsbrook in Glen Innsbrook After Hours was well- Freeman’s popular marching Allen. It was well-known for known for its local placement in band began rehearsals with the its outdoor performances by fa- Glen Allen. However, on March full band on Mar. 9, after being mous country singers such as 29th Innsbrook After Hours an- forced to push their season into Brett Young, Kane Brown, and nounced a move from their home spring due to COVID-19 lock- Billy Currington. Innsbrook, in Innsbrook to a new location downs. The Marching Maver- however, is not limited to coun- in Doswell Virginia. Along with icks practice every Tuesday and try music; bands such as Mamma the new location will come a Thursday morning from 7:15 to Mia’s hit pop group ABBA have new name, After Hours Con- 8:15 anywhere from the foot- also performed at the venue. certs. After Hours Concerts pre- ball field to the big gym. Health “After Hours is the perfect miere show is scheduled for May and safety requirements make place to go to listen to music 14th showing Jamey Johnson. rehearsals interesting, but most with your friends,” said senior “I’m disappointed they moved band students are glad to be back. Gina Vinson. “It’s also great because it is now much fur- “I was really excited to go for meeting new people!” ther from my house,” said Gina. back to marching band,” said When the music wasn’t play- After Hours Concerts’ opening junior Tommy Wasilik, who ing, there were plenty of oth- will give Richmonders a sense of plays the tuba. “It’s not quite the PHOTO: DSF BAND INSTAGRAM er attractions to keep patrons normalcy again as they rally to- same as it used to be, but what busy at the venue. Along with a gether after the closing caused by slip our mouthpieces through countless hours with these peo- we are doing is well worth it.” large field for dancing, socializ- the pandemic. “I’m so excited to go and play while wearing a mask,” ple and become very close with “We’re not marching,” said se- ing, and listening to performers to concerts with my friends again,” said Tommy. “The flaps on the all of them,” said Tommy Wasi- nior and head drum major Abby and a stage for the performers, said junior Chloe Ellen, “I haven’t mask often get caught in your lik. “I enjoy playing music with Kupstas. “We’re just walking onto Innsbrook After Hours also had seen an in-person concert since mouth, making it hard to play.” [this] group of people. Every in- the field together and … playing food, drinks, and game booths to the beginning of [last] March.” “It feels unnecessary,” said strument has their own part and the music because marching would sophomore trombone player Grif- it all comes together to make a mean we break social distancing.” PHOTO: AFTER HOURS CONCERTS fin Belding. “I personally feel beautiful, fun piece of music.” Junior Joseph Chambers, who that there is no safety benefit to plays baritone saxophone, shared a mask with a hole in it … we similar stories of social distanc- I enjoy playing might as well just take them off.” ing difficulties. “At first, we music with this group In addition to challenging COV- were trying to go with six feet, ID-19 protocol, “The biggest prob- of people.” and that kind of worked,” he lem is not having band camp,” said “ said. “But if we want to work - Tommy Wasilik Abby Kupstas. “The fact that we’re on music in sections or with the doing marching band in March in- full band, it’s difficult to do … stead of near the summer means Griffin agrees that the unified- mu on the field or in the big gym.” we don’t have that two-week peri- sic of the Marching Mavericks is In addition to social distancing, od of time where everybody learns one of the best things about the protocol has to be adopted to keep the show, meets everybody, and experience. “Everything looks students safe while playing their learns how to march … it’s more and sounds phenomenal when you instruments. “[We have to] put difficult to teach people things.” march with everybody,” he said. covers over our bells- the open- However, in spite of all the dif- “It feels more unified than -any ings of our instruments- so that ficulties, the Marching Maver- thing else I’ve done with music.” COVID doesn’t come out the oth- icks are still having a good time. The DSF Marching Mavericks er end,” said Joseph. “[We] also “I missed all of [my friends],” will be performing at junior varsity wear masks while we play- masks said Abby. “It was nice to start (JV) football games on Thursday in which we have cut holes.” seeing them more regularly.” nights. Games are streamed live “We were directed to cut a t- “In a normal year, you spend on Freeman’s YouTube channel. shape in our mask so we can After Hours Concerts’ new logo 12 The Back Page More Than a Video Game: The Freeman Esports Team team has built. “It’s fun to Kieran Wall play and compete with other Editor-in-Chief people that have the same interest as you, other people who saw a school eSports team Video games are no longer and thought ‘that’s something just a common leisure activity. I want to do,’” said Chase. Recent years have seen As eSports continues to competitive gaming evolve into expand in popularity, the a 1.1 billion dollar industry ac- team hopes interest in high cording to Statista, with total school level competition will viewership expected to exceed rise. “It’s growing. And it’s that of basketball by 2022. Rid- growing quickly,” said Mr. ing this wave of gaming as it Booher, speaking to the preva- takes the world by storm is lence of high school eSports. Freeman’s new eSports team. “The pro-league scene for eSports has grown The eSports team at Freeman PHOTO: WIKIPEDIA grew out of the now-defunct vid- significantly,” said Chase. vided into different squads, each ture of practices. “There are “There’s a different mindset in “I’m hoping high school eo game club (VGC), launched focusing on a particular video ways we can set up scrimmag- [competing] than playing for fun, by a physics teacher and avid eSports will grow big enough game. The Freeman eSports es against other schools, but you try to play your best and not that eventually professional gamer himself, Jeremy Booher. team actively competes in three we haven’t gotten there yet.” goof off,” said Chase. Despite the “For a few years, all [we] did organizations will pick up high different games: Rocket League, Chase plays Rocket League for added pressure, “[competing] school players and teams.” was meet after school to play Madden, and League of Leg- the team, a game that requires is a lot more fun,”said Chase. Smash Bros,” said Mr. Booher, If you arePHOTO: interested WIKIPEDIA in ends. Rocket League is essential- both quick reflexes and technical The 2021 season started off joining Freeman’s eSports reminiscing on the days of the ly fast-paced car soccer, Madden skill honed through practice. rough, with Freeman losing video game club. However, “There are so many mechanics several matches in a row. “when the seniors that started gainst teams in the game you can practice “We’ve been playing against a the club graduated, VGC pretty A in Ohio, Norway, and and improve on,” said Chase. lot of higher-ranked teams,” said much died out,” said Booher. “The nice thing about this Chase. However, recent weeks As the prevalence of competi- even Japan.” type of team is that most people have seen better performances tive gaming continued to rise, “ are playing and practicing in all around. “Our teams are doing - Jackson Beale Mr. Booher joined with Mr. Orr their free time anyway because really well,” said Mr. Booher. and a group of interested stu- is the premier American football they enjoy the game,” said Mr. “I’m excited to see what ‘end- dents earlier this year to revive video game, and League of Leg- Booher, elaborating on practice. game’ looks like in a few weeks.” the Video Game Club as the eS- ends is a popular multiplayer Team cohesion and personal In addition to local games, Free- ports team, with the goal of field- combat and tower defense game. skill are put to the test man has competed “against ing student teams to compete in As in any sport, practice is during weekly competitive teams in Ohio, Norway, and local tournaments. The team has critical to the success of the rounds against other eSports even Japan,” said junior Jack- quickly become one of the largest eSports team in competition. teams around the state and son Beale, who plays Madden. extracurricular groups at Free- “We basically just play the country. “So far, we’ve been Perhaps more important than man, with close to 40 members. game together,” said junior playing one match per game victories are the community Members of the team are subdi- Chase Henricks on the struc- per week,” said Mr. Booher. and connections the eSports Review: Starbuck’s New Iced Brown Sugar Oatmilk Shaken Espresso The sweetness of the drink is Annabelle Glassman not overpowering, but enough to Editor-in-Chief encourage anyone who is wary of the flavor of coffee by itself. he best de- I’ve always been a little scared T of TikTok food trends. A rather scription of this drink unfortunate whipped coffee inci- is the word middle, dent last March and the general but“ in a good way.” vomit-esque appearance of the tomato and feta pasta that went - Annabelle Glassman viral earlier this year led me to swear off any Tik-Tok affiliated There was the slightest hint of food. This was until the Iced cinnamon too, which added an Brown Sugar Oatmilk Shaken interesting flavor to the drink Espresso simultaneously ap- and a little bit of color on the top. peared on the Starbucks menu This drink was my first and many For You pages. As a experience with oat milk. While self-proclaimed coffee connois- I didn’t appreciate the extra seur, I had to see what all the cost that it tacked on to my hype was about. So, I practiced drink, it was not as strange as saying the mouthful of an order I thought it would be. In fact, I (which did not save me from barely even noticed the switch mortifyingly stumbling through from real milk. I’m not going the actual ordering process), and to start using oat milk in my ev- headed off to the nearest - Star eryday coffee, but I’ll consider it bucks. After shelling out $5.45 next time as a dairy alternative. for a grande, the drink was mine. Though this drink will not The best description of this replace my regular order, it drink is the word middle, but was both a good change from in a good way. The Iced Brown my regular and a welcome Sugar Oatmilk Shaken Espresso reminder to leave my comfort is the perfect drink to facilitate zone every now and then. 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