Commentatorthe

A publication of Douglas Southhall Freeman Vol 57, No.3 December 2010 High School, Henrico, Virginia 23229

Freshman overcomes sickle cell anemia treatments is “chemo brain.” Caroline Lewis & This chemo brain causes Nile to Scott Nystrom have short term memory loss. Staff Writers “Sometimes it is hard for me to pay attention. Not all the time but sometimes. I’ll study a lot and then take the test and look Only 1 person out of every at the paper and don’t remember 1,000 people in the United States any of it,” said Nile. has sickle cell anemia. Freshman To keep up with school he Nile Price is part of that 0.1 per- sometimes is started on home- cent. bound and a teacher will come After going through a series of to his house to help him. Ms. chemo treatments, followed by a Edwards, guidance counselor at bone marrow transplant, Nile is Freeman, arranged for a NHS free of sickle cell anemia and is student to tutor Nile. hoping to visit his donor. “I email him all the notes and After submitting Nile’s bone the students email all the notes marrow to the National Bone they took in class...we are try- Marrow Registry, it was matched ing to be supportive in every way with that of Laura Klubert’s, a possible. I let him make things 43 year old Caucasian woman up and redo things because of from Texas. missing class,” said Lara Curry, It has been about four months history teacher at Freeman. since Nile’s treatment, and Nile “All of the teachers have been has not met the woman who more than understanding and saved his life. accommodating. I should say, “We haven’t had the opportuni- everyone at Freeman has gone ty to meet her face to face yet but above and beyond for Nile. This we chat as though we’ve been is the first time we have ever got- the best of friends forever,” said ten such a response from school,’ Deborah Price, Nile’s mother. said Mrs. Price. Nile hopes to be able to visit Some of his class mates sent Laura in late November or early him cards and other things to en- December, but the costs of the tertain him, such as a sketchpad medical treatments and medi- and a mix cd. cines make the cross-country “He hates to miss school and PHOTO: J. CROWDER flight very difficult. was so worried about falling be- “…Sickle Cell disease…has not hind but when he saw during this allowed us to get away like other last hospital admission that ev- Nile Price works on his leadship homework in study hall. families because it requires lots eryone here is going to do what of coordinating just for a week- they can help, he was floored. end getaway. Sometimes we have We were both super surprised,” trait including his dad. Nile is a Nile’s donor, Laura Klubert, caused by it. Some of the pills made plans in advance only to said Mrs. Price. triplet but his two brothers only lives in Texas. She has two sons; make his skin extra sensitive to have them cancelled at the last have the sickle cell trait. How- one is deaf and blind and the light for the treatment. When he minute because Nile went into a What is Sickle Cell Anemia? ever his younger sister has the other is a marine pilot. Klubert comes out of the photophoresis crisis,” said Mrs. Price. Sickle cell anemia is a life disease. is white and therefore only had treatment, he has to wear special A fund has been set up by the threatening hereditary disease. Sickle cell patients experience a 5% chance of having a perfect sunglasses to guard his eyes from local television broadcasting Most people who inherit the dis- a crisis. Nile had his first “crisis” match with Price who is black. light. company, NBC 12, to help raise ease only live to their 40’s. at 12 months old. Last summer, his sickle cell dis- Throughout all the treatments, money for Nile’s trip. Also, the The sickle cell disease is a type A sickle cell crisis is when sick- ease worsened. He went to che- Nile has not changed his outlook Freeman staff has raised $322 to of anemia which means the blood le cells block small blood vessels motherapy for a week and then on life. assist Nile in his hope of meeting has a lower than average number that carry blood to your bones. after a week of rest, went back “It has not changed my out- Laura. of red blood cells. The job of red A crisis typically results in a trip in for another round of chemo. look on life. But there are cer- The fund is set up through blood cells in the body is to trans- to the hospital. The purpose of the chemo was tain things that you have to do to Wachovia. To donate money to port oxygen and remove carbon Red blood cells are created to kill the bad cells to wipe out keep out of the hospital but you help Nile’s cause, ask one of the dioxide. In this disorder, the in the bone marrow. One pos- the immune system so he could still got to enjoy life,” said Nile. Wachovia tellers for more infor- body sometimes creates “sickle sible cure for sickle cell anemia receive the transplant. One of Nile’s biggest supports mation. shaped” red blood cells. is a bone marrow transplant but Going into the treatment, Nile throughout the treatment was his How is the Freeman family These sickle cells only live it only works for a small number experienced multiple nightmares. mom. She has great confidence helping Nile? around 10 to 20 days. This is a people. Nile is one of those lucky He was afraid of losing a kidney in his future. This fall Nile was in the hos- lot shorter than the average red people. or other important organs. “I always tell my children to pital for about two weeks, and blood cell life of 120 days. This Nile’s Treatment The treatment went perfectly shoot for the moon and if they many of his teachers visited him. disparity in life span causes the Nile’s mom began looking for and Nile was cured of the sickle happen to miss, at least they will Although the Freeman fam- low number of red blood cells in treatment for his sickle cell dis- cell disease. After the disease, he be amongst the stars…He is the ily has been understanding and the body. ease when he was younger but had to stay at home for a couple happiest child I know and he has helpful to Nile’s medical issues, Sickle cell patients learn of their the doctors told her that it wasn’t of months to regain his strength. big dreams and embraces every some of his previous teachers disease around time of birth. severe enough yet. “I was basically a noodle,” said day with great expectations,” haven’t been. Once being diagnosed with sick- As Nile aged, he began experi- Nile. said Deborah Price. “In elementary and middle le cell anemia, the patient’s life is encing more frequent and severe Nile Now and his Future One of Nile’s dreams is to setup school we gave booklets about completely changed. crises and became a “frequent Nile is completely cured from a foundation to expand the Nel- sickle cell anemia to the teachers “Nile was two weeks old when flyer” at the hospital. He also sickle cell anemia but he now son clinic and 7th floor at MCV and they just put it in their desks I got a telephone call from the experienced acute chest which is battling the graph versus host where he was during his stay in and didn’t look at it. One teacher Maryland state health depart- is when the lungs fill with water disease. the hospital. Nile expressed con- wouldn’t let me leave 5 minutes ment…I cried deeply because I and causes extreme pain in the The goal is to have all the do- cern that there was not enough early so I could walk to my class- knew what this disease would chest. nor bone marrow cells take over space in the clinic for the patients es more easily. Kids were im- mean for his life,” said Deborah Doctors decided he was ready his “host” cells. While this pro- or for the parents who sleep over- mature and I got pushed into a Price. for the treatment. Nile and his cess takes place, the body reacts night there. locker. The commotion made me Because sickle cell anemia is a parents began looking for a do- strangely. Nile is appreciative of the help go into crisis,” said Nile. hereditary disease, usually more nor and entered him into the To fight this disease, Nile is MCV has given his family. Dur- The gym teachers also made than one person in a family has National Bone Marrow Registry. undergoing a treatment called ing some of his hospital stays, Nile run in the cold and hot, the disease. However, some fam- He found his donor, Laura Klu- photophoresis twice a week. He MCV gave his parents free food even though he is not supposed ily members will only have the bert, through the registry. is put in a room and has ultravio- coupons and waived the parking to be outside when it is below 40 sickle cell trait, which means For a donor to be able to donate lent light shining on him. Nile fees. or above 90 degrees or doing any they have the sickle cell gene but bone marrow, the doner must describes this treatment as “a sun Nile’s future is bright now that form of exercise which led to an- not the disease. have a perfect 8 out of 8 match tan for his white blood cells”. he is free of his sickle cell disease other hospital visit. All men on Nile’s dad’s side which is determined through a He takes 17 pills a day for the burden. Another side effect from the of the family have the sickle cell mouth swab. treatment and other conditions Car collision reveals dangers of jay-walking

chel Heinig who is investigating sore,” said “The he said. Nicole Coble & the accident said that the news Spencer. r o a d w a y Spencer was crossing the street report had multiple errors be- Officer “The roadway is controlled is con- because his car was parked in the Katherine Krudys sides the bicycle, but she could Hundley con- by stoplights and crosswalks. trolled by Kroger parking lot. Staff Writers not release further information firmed ru- stoplights “For the most part this would because the investigation is pri- mors that the Any other time, a person is and cross- not have happened if parking vate. driver who hit taking a risk when crossing” walks. Any passes were not expensive or “I ended up fracturing my pel- Spencer was other time, if the church was still free,” he Junior Spencer Hargett was vis right side. I had scrapes, and a teenager, said Officer Hundley a person said crossing East Ridge Road when bruises, and two lacerations that but due to is taking a Spencer recommends that other a car turning left out of the Krog- required four stitches total,” said the student’s risk when pedestrians “be more attentive,” er parking lot struck him Nov. 9 Spencer describing his injuries. juvenile sta- crossing.” and he said he will use cross- around 4 p.m. Spencer stayed in the hospital tus he could “It was not walks in the future. NBC 12 news incorrectly re- for about 24 hours. And as a not release the name. Although, like I was the only one crossing “By the time you get to 15,16,17 ported that he was riding a bike. result of his injuries, he missed Spencer said he was hit by a 19- there,” said Spencer. years of age you know that walk- “He was walking. I do not eight full days of school but his year-old girl, who is not a student Spencer said that at the time ing in front of a moving vehicle is know where they got the bike teachers were “helpful with mak- at Freeman. of the accident he was talking on not going to be a good outcome,” from,” said Officer Campbell ing up the work.” Regardless of his injuries, Of- his cell phone. said Officer Hundley. Hundley. “Pretty much for the most part ficer Hundley said the driver is “I was talking to my mom, and Henrico County Officer Ra- I did not feel a lot of it, but I was legally not responsible. I was getting ready to hang up,” The Commentator 2 Vol 57, No.3 December 2010 News

News In Brief: Incentive grant benefits teachers

$10,000 salary supplement based schools are hard to staff “include Mr. Ahrens. Irene Peppiatt on how well the learning envi- everything from student disci- When asked the question of Christmas Mother Staff Writer ronment they have created re- pline, to the number of hours whether or not they would con- Canned Drive tains teachers. Their additional of ‘non-contractual time’ that sider returning to work at High- pay is also based on how well teachers work, to lack of com- land Springs in order to be eligi- the school as a whole performs munity/parental support for the ble to participate in the grant and The SCA sponsored Henrico County Public Schools, with its partner the on state and local assessments of children’s education.” receive the extra compensation, canned food drive Community Training and Tech- knowledge. “Teachers and principals at Ms. Rose, Mr. Faglioni, and Mr. ended Dec.1. This nical Assistance Center, received Selected schools include High- the selected schools should be Ahrens all answered differently. year the drive was $16,447,775 in a Teacher Incen- land Springs Elementary School, compensated more than teachers “I would return to HSHS or Fair Oaks Elementary School, conducted through tive Fund grant from the federal at Freeman because they have Henrico High regardless of the Laburnum Elementary School, a tougher job. At Freeman, we incentive. Don’t get me wrong, fourth period classes. government. The program was implemented at the beginning Glen Lea Elementary School, don’t have as many fights or dis- I love Freeman and I love being Winners were: of the 2010-11 school year, and Adams Elementary School, plays of aggression. If you are here, but I also really enjoyed the Mr. Peck’s class with it will continue throughout the Fairfield Middle School, Wilder a teacher at one of the selected different challenges at HSHS. If 971 lbs, Dr. Bonday next five years. Middle School, and Highland schools, you may be expected to there was extra money, I would Springs High School. deLeon’s class with The grant was given to HCPS get in the middle of a fight and like it, but I would give 100 per- According to Mr. Mark Fa- break it up,” said Mr. Faglioni. cent to my job regardless,” said 648 lbs, and Mrs. to attempt to lower the number of effective teachers and princi- glioni, a Freeman social studies “I think that teachers who meet Ms. Rose. Day’s class with 374 pals leaving the county’s highest- teacher who previously worked all of the requirements for the in- “I am in the twilight of my lbs. need schools. at Highland Springs for one year, centive program will have done career. When I worked there All teachers who instruct stu- the effectiveness of the grant a tremendous amount of work, [Highland Springs], I was much dents in a subject with an end-of- in retaining teachers for these and that there should be recogni- younger so I had much more en- course SOL Assessment are al- schools “all depends on the indi- tion for this progress. The extra ergy to meet the demands that Gay Straight Alli- lowed to participate in the grant. vidual teacher, and whether the money is not automatic,” said such schools impose,” said Mr. All principals who supervise compensation justifies the learn- Ms. Rose. Ahrens. ance Club these teachers are also eligible to ing environment.” Mr. Warren Ahrens, assistant “I don’t think the money could participate. Teachers at these schools “are principal who previously worked entice me back because I’m faced with children who are The club received the Eligible teachers may earn up as assistant principal at High- happy with the students at Free- dealing with more challenges land Springs High School for six man,” said Mr. Faglioni. opportunity to go on to an $8,000 salary supplement based on how engaging their outside the classroom,” said Mr. years, also believes the Teacher “I feel very fortunate and proud the White House’s classrooms are according to Faglioni. Incentive Fund grant is fair. to serve the student body and Annual Open Holi- county standards, and also based According to Ms. Julia Rose, “The students over there are staff at Freeman,” agreed Mr. day Tour after hours on how well their students do on assistant principal who previ- harder to motivate to learn. Stu- Ahrens. ously worked at both Highland on Dec. 18, along the SOL assessments. dents at Freeman seem to be Springs High School and Hen- more motivated and more seri- with other GSA clubs Eligible principals and assis- tant principals may earn up to a rico High School, reasons these ous about their learning,” said around the area. They were recommended to the White House by More complaints, more speed bumps GLSN. ing,” said Officer Sidelitz. Catherine Ashman The county of Henrico patrols Staff Writer Santa Anna randomly in attempt Winners of the to catch speeders and reduce the amount of speeding cars. On Oct. 8, senior Erin Moore PTA National Re- “A lot of times if residents was driving to school at 7:55 a.m. complain, they will try to get out flections Program: to early to study for her physics there to monitor,” said Officer test when she was pulled over by Hundley. a police officer in a silver Dodge 1st place: Speeding tickets have already Charger. Literature- Yamin been given out this year; along “I got slapped with a $375 tick- with speeding are other viola- Alam et and I had to take the SATs the tions. Photography- Kayla next day,” said Erin. Seat belt violations and too Adams Erin was going 16mph over many people in the car are the PHOTO: JACK CROWDER in a strictly 25 mph school zone Visual Arts- Christina most common charges once a road. She does not know what Maina person is pulled for speeding. Students demonstrate how to pitch a tent during survival week. the specific consequence will be One Freeman student who re- yet but she does know she has to ceived a speeding ticket this year 2nd and 3rd places: go to court on Dec. 2 and pay her said the officer who pulled her Photography- Kayla $375 fine. Students learn over was undercover. In fact the “Since it’s a first offense it will Adams officer who pulled her over was probably be dropped but if not I Visual Arts- not undercover, but was actually might have to do driving school, survival skills in P.E. a traffic safety police. Brittany Snyder which is stupid because I’m a “Unmarked car usually means -Victoria Kiomall good driver,” said Erin. they are in the traffic safety unit,” ple. “When the lights are flashing said officer Hundley. Out of the all the skills the it’s a school zone. Usually its Libby Winchell The difference between officers boys had learned so far, soph- about 20 minutes before the first Staff Writer with unmarked cars and marked Library News omore Aaron Young thought bell and 20 minutes after the bell cars is unmarked car’s sole re- “making tents would be the rings,” said Officer Campbell You may not know what the sponsibility is to write tickets Graduating students: most useful.” Hundley, Henrico police officer. terms ‘timber hitch’ or ‘butter- whereas the police in marked After the boys made the Each school has a school zone, for a $25 contribution, fly tie’ mean, but after a day in cars radar when they are waiting shelters, Coach Clements talk- an area covering the roads sur- a book will be pur- “Survival Week” with the boys for further instructions or radio ed to them about how to make rounding a school, where driving of the PE classes, you would. instructions. chased for the Library a lean-to shelter. laws are more strictly enforced During the last week of Octo- “We have the same power” said including a name Coach Clements has been and punishments are greater. ber, while the girls were learn- Officer Hundley. plate with your name hiking for 20 years. Santa Anna is a road in the ing self-defense moves with “Speeding’s speeding no matter “I found a survival school Freeman school zone that con- and year of gradua- Chop-Chop Bob, the boys were where you are,” said Coach Troy in Roanoke that I’m now a nects Patterson Avenue to the tion learning skills to use in emer- Davidson, a Drivers Ed teacher. part of, and I’m trying to pass Freeman parking lot. Because gency situations. Students may claim they do not donations received along the things I’ve learned” of this road’s location, many of Throughout the week, Doug know about school zones, but in (deadline April 1) he said. drivers on the road are students. Clements, PE teacher, taught fact they do learn about speed- “One time while I was hiking, “If I had to give you an average the boys everything from knot ing. The only difference between it was snowing and I couldn’t I’d probably say drivers go about tying to first aid. speeding in a school zone and a see the trail. I didn’t know how 28-30mph on Santa Anna,” said “We have seven priorities: non-school zone is the penalty. to use a compass, which I wish Officer Sidelitz, Henrico Traffic Chorus Honors PMA, which means positive “To get their license they have I had” said Clements. Safety officer. mental attitude, wilderness to pass behind the wheel and Coach Clements reminded “The penalty is usually en- first aid, shelter craft, fire craft, during those three days we go Senior Ian Scott repre- the boys that they need to prac- hanced which will mean a strict- signaling, water, and food” through school zones to see if sented Freeman at the tice the skills they’ve learned, er fine” said Officer Hundley. said Coach Clements. students understand and if they especially knot-tying. In attempt to reduce the Honors Choir for the “We’ve learned how to tie don’t, they don’t pass,” said “I don’t think they’ll remem- amount of speeders on Santa state of Virginia on knots, how to make fires, how Coach Davidson. ber everything they’ve learned Anna, speed humps were put in to make tents, and what to do Police are stricter about speed- November 18-20 here, but I think they’ll have the road by Henrico County. in case of an injury” said soph- ing in a school zone is because a general idea of what to do” “It was done this year. Most omore Ivor Otieno. there are greater risks. said Clements. likely it was the people living on On the third day of “Survival “A lot of people don’t under- Miscellaneous Coach Clements also told the that road who have complained Week,” the boys learned how stand the severity of school boys that they can use the skills about the high volume of the News to make a shelter. They were zones and speeding. There are a in other situations, like with cars and the speed of the cars,” split into groups of four and lot more pedestrians, a lot more their cars. said Officer Hundley. were given rope and a piece of traffic. The slower the speed of Additional copies of The PE department hopes to Henrico County put in speed tarp. cars, the easier it is to judge gaps, the student directory include the girls in “Survival bumps usually because of a high Each group tied the rope to which means less collisions” said are available in the of- Week” next year. number of complaints about two volleyball net poles. They Coach Davidson. The boys learned many life- speeding on a certain road, yet fice for $2. put the tarp over the rope and “The penalty is usually en- long skills in “Survival Week.” the county cannot go and put then taped and tied a plastic hanced which will mean a stricter Clements reminded them that speed bumps in based solely off golf ball, or ‘button,’ on the fine. Five miles over on Patterson “You never know when you’ll of complaints. top and bottom ends of the is not as big of a deal as going need any of this out in the “My knowledge of the speed tarp, making a triangle. five over in a school zone. Plus woods.” bumps is the county has to come Each tent fit four to five peo- they have the flashing light. You and do a speed survey on how need to pay attention to your many cars come through and speed,” said Officer Hundley. what percent of them are speed- The Commentator Opinions Vol. 57., No. 3 December 2010 3

Voting gives teens a voice Hot or Not approaches. Based on your own dependently, so that their deci- personal feelings and the time sion truly is theirs. Many people, Isaac Buckley takes the temperature of Free- you’ve spent educating yourself, will vote in a similar manner to man’s current trends you go out to the polls and make their parents. While this is not an informed decision. It is com- necessarily a bad thing, voting 110° Really really pletely free and only requires this way doesn’t create any more that your register ahead of time. informed citizens, and thus peo- bad dubstep: Sub- I am aware that we just recently ple are making decision based on standard Music had an election, but there are al- where and who they were born + Big Speakers = ways more, and if you want to en- too, completely random events act change, this is the most effec- that we have no control over. Win. tive way to do it. For those who What we do have control over say that 1 vote doesn’t matter, is our mind and our hearts, and 90° Unofficial- Remember, the 2000 presidential we are afforded the privilege in Spunk Days: After election came down to a few hun- this country to put people into dred votes. You forfeit your right power that agree with our own all those years of to speak out against your govern- social and economic values. complaining about Nathan Thomson ment if you do nothing to try Being a teenager can be frus- lackluster school Opinion Editor and make your change a reality. trating, but when you are given Some of our country’s most im- the opportunity to make some- spirit, the spunk portant issues (abortion, the war thing in your world better, it is back. Way to on terror, and taxes) all directly seems laughable that you would up the ante, senior If you’re a teenager who is frus- impact teenagers. Teenagers are give up that chance. Voting is not trated by your lack of say in what the ones fighting and dying for difficult, and it is the best way class goes on in the world around you, our country and the ones who to fulfill your civic duty to our then I have just the thing for you. will be paying for the debt that nation. We recently celebrated 50° Black Ops I’m It’s called voting. Basically, you we have racked up over this last those who fight for and defend use some news source (paper, decade. To protect yourself in our freedom, but if you are not sure it’s an awe- internet, TV) and spend some the future, it is necessary to take voting and then complaining some game, but do time researching what candi- a part in the government now. about what is going on, you you really have to dates and issues are being dis- It is important especially for are desecrating their sacrifice. cussed when the next election young people to do research in- go into hibernation for a month and have conversations consisting of noth- ing but the words Cartoon Central “K-D ratio” and by Silas Frantz “try-hard”? 30° Fro-Yo Fri- days: Oh, girls trying to be boys. When will it end? They’re already try- ing to muscle in on No-Shave Novem- ber -10° School Cen- sorship: You should see our first drafts.

The Commentator Staff

Editors-In-Chief: Caroline Heese and Dixon Wallace Copy Editor: Kimberly Easterling News Editor: Amanda Orchowsky and Samantha Shaffer Opinions Editors: Isaac Buckley, Silas Frantz, Nathan Thomson Sports Editors: Michael Nicholson, Stephen Proffit, and Ka- trina Spinner-Wilson Special Features Editors: Katie Corey and Martha Weisiger Arts and Entertainment Editors: Christabelle D’Silva and Taylor Smith Another senior is swallowed up by the monster of senioritis Features Editors: Mary Cate Horan and Robbie Keefe Seniors overwhelmed with Photo Editors: Jack Crowder and Sean Ridge college application process Dear senior tions,) but we are merely trying ful the process really is. It is not to have enough time to effective- just typing in your personal in- Staff Writers: teachers, ly apply to colleges. Even though formation and extracurricular November deadlines are in the activities, but the essays take Catherine Ashman, Garland Barksdale, Sarah It has been established by many past, there are still the January, of the senior class students that patience and precision. Don’t be February and March deadlines fooled that applications are any Bellet, Carleigh Branch, Dominic Capocelli, Ti- balancing homework and fill- that are creeping up. Senior year ing out college applications has easier now that they are online. grades are still very important, If you think about it, giving fare Choi, Nicole Coble, Gates Deppner, Abigail become just too much. College especially when colleges request apps are an essential task and less work means fewer papers Dixon, Delaney Firer, Katherine Krudys, Anne to see them, therefore we are you have to grade, which makes an unalterable part of our senior simply asking to make it pos- Aurelia Lewis, Caroline Lewis, Emily Meyer, duties. The only problem is: they our lives easier as well as yours. sible to complete our homework Do not underestimate us, teach- take hours. On behalf of the rest AND college applications in a Scott Nystrom, Astacia Pegram, Irene Peppiatt, of the senior class, it would be ers, we are looking out for you timely manner. What would you too. You will have much happi- Jill Reisinger, Emma Richardson, Lindsay Sni- greatly appreciated if the excess rather have: assignments that are homework assignments could be er students if you just take all of incomplete (or not completed at this into consideration, trust us. dow, Charlie Stephens, Olivia Stevenson, Lind- kept to a minimum. It should not all) or assignments completed be mistaken that we are slackers with full effort? All we are asking Sincerely, say Tilley, Matt Tyson, Peyton Williams, Libby and senioritis is at its prime (give is that you keep in mind all of Winchell it a few more months, and then the time and energy college ap- you can make these assump- The 2010-2011 plications take, and how stress- Commentator Staff The Commentator 04 Vol 57, No.3 December 2010 Features

Freshmen excels in Irish dancing

trouble. Though the dance classes Jill Reisinger themselves are relatively cheap, Staff Writer travel expenses are high for out- of-state and international competi- tions. Also, the dresses Erin wears are extremely expensive because they Tight arms and rapid leg move- are custom made to fit Erin, both ments, embroidered costumes and her personality and her size. They spotlights have consumed fresh- are embroidered and made in Ire- man Erin Murphy’s days since she land. dedicated her life to Irish dance at When in New Jersey, Erin’s prac- age five. A nationally ranked Irish tices usually last anywhere from dancer, her inspiration includes a five to seven hours, as there is no long history of family members ending time. However, her Mon- who have pursued the art, such as day practices are limited to three her father and aunts. hours because her teacher must Two of Erin’s aunts danced and catch a train back to New Jersey competed when they were young afterward. Erin’s current dance and Erin has chosen to carry on the teacher Kevin Broesler is known family tradition. to be one of the best Irish dance “Erin’s great grandparents were teachers in the United States. born in Ireland so there was always “I can only go to practice two an interest in all things Irish,” said days a week since it’s so far away Erin’s aunt, Trish Murphy. Her so I have a practice base at my grandfather played Irish music on house so I can practice all the time the accordion at family gatherings, when I’m not doing homework,” which provided inspiration for said Erin. singing and dancing. As a student in the Leadership PHOTO: JACK CROWDER Erin’s schedule includes long Center, Erin has a heavy work- Erin showing off her dance moves on Freeman’s front lawn. hours of rehearsal in dance schools load. However, she manages her live in close proximity to her. She regular competition and then she optimism. She plans to continue located all across the East coast. time so that she finishes all of the also used to have a dance teacher has majors, which include region- dance through high school and will Every Monday after school she homework due Tuesday over the in Williamsburg, so she occasion- als, nationals, and worlds. Last consider a career in dance when it has a practice in Maryland and weekend, yet she admits that it is ally practices alone in her previous year Erin placed in the top ten is time for college. most Saturdays her mom drives difficult to plan ahead. teacher’s studio. at regionals and 30th at nation- Erin’s parents plan to support her her to New Jersey as well. Although dance practices and With track practice each weekday als. She also qualified for worlds dancing career as long as they are “It is crazy, but I have it down homework fill Erin’s schedule, and dance being her primary activ- but was unable to go because she physically, emotionally, and finan- to a science now and it somehow she has also found time to partici- ity in her spare time, Erin’s only sprained her ankle the week before cially able to. They are more than works,” said Erin’s mom Kim pate in the Freeman cross country time to socialize is Friday night. she would have left for Scotland. willing to let her seize any oppor- Murphy. She packs up the car with team. She goes to New Jersey on Sat- Spraining her ankle is not an tunities that may potentially be of- all of the necessities, such as food, “My coach lets me miss Mon- urday morning, where she spends uncommon injury for Erin, as she fered, even if it means putting off drinks, dance supplies, pillows, day practices so I can go to dance. the afternoon with her extended has injured it in multiple instances. college for a year or two. and homework materials. She I asked him at the beginning of the family until her five o’clock dance She sprained it at regionals, then Erin’s success is largely due to leaves Erin’s dad, who stays home season if I could do both because practice starts. playing with her brother, and again her strong sense of commitment to avoid dealing with hair, make dance would be my priority and “I usually get home at like 2 a.m. doing gymnastics. and desire to do well at everything up, and costumes, to take care of he has been really understand- Then we see my family for a little Though prone to injuries, and she does. Her mom claims that their 10 year old son Collin. ing,” said Erin. She now misses while on Sunday. Then we drive busy balancing inconvenient loca- these are her two best qualities, “I’ve gotten used to sleeping in Wednesday practices as well be- home. Whenever I do that I basi- tions with her high school sched- along with her smile. the car, so if I have homework, I’ll cause regionals are coming up in cally don’t get to see my friends at ule, Erin is a determined Irish “When she dances people notice do homework. But I usually just December. all. I usually get to go to football dancer and looks past these minor her smile and tell her they can see listen to my iPod and sleep for five On Wednesdays, Erin practices games on Friday nights, that’s my setbacks. how much she really loves it,” said hours,” said Erin. at home or sometimes goes to a only free night,” said Erin. “But I’ve never broken any- Mrs. Murphy. The car rides are only half of the studio to practice with people who Each month Erin tries to do one thing!” Erin said, exhibiting her Vamos a bailar: Let’s dance! A day in the life of...

Freshman Franklin

7:27-Throws off Snuggie to start the morning and does a little two step to the shower. Swag is on. 7:32- On his third round of conditioning. Fresh- ens his froshness with Old Spice Swagger Body PHOTO: SEAN RIDGE Wash. Mr. Sanchez’s Spanish students enjoying a newly learned dance in his 7th period class. 7:51- Shaves heavy beard. nothing because each word in a “In Columbia,” Mr. Sanchez said, 8:30- Shamelessly dropped off by mom in the Tifare Choi language has a background and “there are only two seasons. Both swaggin’ wagon. Staff Writer there has to be a culture to show seasons are really hot, around the 8:44- Does the “Nerd with a Giant Backpack” this background,” Mr. Cifuentes 90’s. The only difference is that it run to catch leadership door before it closes. said. rains more in the winter.” It is 4th period and Orlando San- Mr. Sanchez said that “mu- Mr. Sanchez started his danc- Unfortunately lowering swag. chez is teaching Spanish. He turns sic, dance, food, and grammar” ing classes after the 2nd week of 9:46- Throw a couple seniors in the trashcan. on a Spanish song and the students all have a part in a language. His school. He taught the merengue, Swag status is raised. move to the beat. He then picks a dancing lessons are over, but he is salsa, flamingo, and tango to the student and shows everyone how 10:01- Gettin’ his Romeo on with the honies- now going into the food portion of students. to do a Spanish dance. Once the it’s Shakespeare time with the one and only L.J. the curriculum. “Dancing is a small part of cul- demonstration is finished, he then Besides teaching, Mr. Sanchez ture, but it helps with understand- Dean. shows everyone else how to do it. has been to many places in the ing how the language flows and 11:23- Crawls through Mr. Foltz’s legs to avoid Mr. Sanchez teaches Spanish world. He has traveled to Costa know Spanish traditions,” Mr. tardy. Stylin’ like Larry King with science lab I and III. He is from the South Rica, Puerto Rico, Spain, Italy, Cifuentes said. American country of Columbia, eyewear. and France over the last two spring Mr. Sanchez said that “90-95%” the same city of Bogotá as Andres 12:00- Searched low and high for a homecom- breaks. of his classes were participating by Cifuentes, another Freeman Span- He does not plan to travel out the end of the unit. ing date in the cafeteria. Now setting his sights ish teacher. of the country this spring break be- Julia Tyson, a freshman, said that on a few more lucky ladies for prom Mr. Sanchez has lived in the cause he is saving money to return “dancing was really fun and it got 2:01- Finally leaves the odd smell of the annex. United States for about 2 years. He to Columbia next year. everyone up. We spent one class taught English and Spanish litera- 2:06- Time for Given’s new family photos from When Mr. Sanchez goes back to period for each dance.” ture in Columbia for 10 years and the wax museum. Columbia, he plans to teach Eng- Katie Johnson, a sophomore, when he came here to the states, he lish, Spanish, or both. said that she “liked the merengue” 3:45- Goes home to watch Dr. Phil prescribe taught Spanish for two years. When Mr. Sanchez came here to best. “tough love.” Mr. Sanchez’s dancing comes America, he was surprised by how “Mr. Sanchez is a good teacher 4:00- Time to hit the gym. Triceps like these from his belief that in learning a organized the traffic was here. In and this is a fun class,” Julia and language, grammar is not the only don’t come easy, ladies. Columbia, the traffic was, in his Katie said. component. Language constitutes words, “chaos.” 5:00- Gym, laundry, tan. Decides swag status is all aspects of a culture. Also, Mr. Sanchez likes the sea- completely irrelevant as he puts on his Snuggie “Language without culture is sons here in America. and falls asleep. The Commentator Features Vol 57, No.3 December 2010 5

Student What do Gold and Eagle have in scores common? 1600 on Lindsay Snidow & SAT Charlie Stephens Staff Writer

Abbie Dixon Staff Writer Earning 21 badges, receiving the leadership award, and stating ambitions of life are all require- ments for becoming an Eagle Scout or earning a Gold Award, respectively. These awards are the highest possible awards given to Boy and Girl Scouts. For a Boy Scout to be- come an Eagle Scout, he must have met six requirements. OHOTO: T. CRENSHAW These requirements include serving the troop for six months Thomas Crenshaw and his friends helping to rebuild the playground at Northstar Academy after becoming a Life Scout, demonstrating a life lived by After becoming an Eagle ect organized and approved for When Girl Scouts are not the principles of the Scout Scout, a Boy Scout can still in- her Gold Award. Thea is work- volunteering, they are attend- Oath, earning 21 merit badges, teract with his troop, and Ryan ing on planning a project that ing meetings, camping, and serving for 6 months in a po- is doing just that. He holds the would give patients at the Chil- selling their famous cookies. sition of responsibility, plan- position of Senior Patrol Leader. dren’s Hospital a social outlet Megan recommends that ning, developing, and giving “I’m kind of like the during their time in the hospital. all girls join Girl Scouts in or- leadership for a service project, dad of the troop,” he said. Another Girl Scout not der to “meet new people, try Thinking about taking your and stating ambitions of life. The process for a Girl Scout afraid of the challenge is ju- new things, and help others.” SAT’s can really make your Not only does a Boy Scout have to receive a Gold Award is simi- nior Lia Gayle, currently in Thea agrees with Megan in that heart beat a little bit faster. be a Cub Scout long enough to lar to that of a Boy Scout at- her 10th year as a girl scout. all girls should try Girl Scouts. The score is an important become a Life Scout, but he will tempting to achieve Eagle Scout. For Lia’s community service “It is a ton of work, but factor on your college ac- also serve his troop for at least The Girl Scout Gold Award project she has decided that it’s worth it,” said Thea. ceptance and your upcom- a year, and finally create a proj- is the highest award that a Girl she wants to create an adop- Lia has some tips for all who ing future. ect that takes months of work. Scout age 14 to 18 may earn. tion clinic for sheltered animals. want to try for The Gold Award. Senior Daniel Rosenfeld A Boy Scout spends the The leadership skills, organi- “I picked this because I love “It’s a lot of hard work, but it’s received a 1600 by combin- year serving his troop do- zational skills, and sense of animals and so many of them totally worth it. It makes you feel ing his best two scores from ing multiple activities. community and commitment don’t have good homes. If there so good that you are helping so the March and June tests. “We camp outdoors, hike, that come from “going for the were more opportunities for peo- many other people. So start think- And by all practical purpos- and meet interesting people,” Gold” set the foundation for a ple to adopt, then maybe good ing about things that interest you es, that is a perfect score. said junior Marc Reiner, who lifetime of active citizenship. homes could be found for these and learn more about your com- “Daniel always works is a member of Troop 799. In order for a Girl Scout to re- sheltered animals.” said Lia munity to see what needs to be hard to make sure that he Marc, who has been in the ceive the Gold Award, she must The focus on a project that done. It is so rewarding when you understands complex ideas Boy Scouts of America pro- build a framework for a project, serves the community is a com- see how much you have helped and problems and I think gram for ten years, is currently earn the Leadership Award, mon purpose with both Boy your community,” she said. his SAT scores reflect that working on building a 50 foot Gold Award, Challenge Award, and Girl Scouts. Sophomore Whether it’s achieving Eagle hard work,” said senior Jus- at Pocahontas State Park for Silver Award, and Bronze Megan Bagli, for example, is Scout Status or earning a Golf tin DeShazor. his Eagle Scout project, which Award, plan a project, act on that helping with the Sitter Bar- Award, rising to the top of the After taking the test the is taking about three months. project, and, finally, reflect upon foot Veterans’ Care Center, in Scouting world is a great accom- first time in March, he was Sophomore Ryan Densley has al- her journey through Girl Scouts. the Alzheimer’s Department. plishment for all who make it. disappointed with receiving ready achieved Eagle Scout status. “The project does take a lot “Helping the community is a score of 1490. Daniel felt “I built and maintained a of time; normally earning your one of the main parts of being that he could do much bet- cart for bone marrow trans- gold award can take six or a Girl Scout,” said Megan. In Less than .5% of ter if he could just solemnly plants at Massey Cancer Cen- more months just planning,” fact, Girl Scouts need at least 65 all Scouts become focus on the math section. ter,” said Ryan, who is also said junior Thea Stoller, who hours of community service in Eagle Scout! “I missed five stupid easy a member of Troop 799. is working on getting a proj- order to obtain the Gold Award. questions, so I just zoned in and focused solely on math,” said Daniel. He set out to do just that and got Young Life reaching a new audience the results he was looking for by going up 220 points. “His persistence pays off There were already many Young Becca. kids, and I have even witnessed and Daniel always seems Nicole Coble Life groups in many of the high Every meeting begins with eat- miracles happening,” said Bec- to ask the right questions to Staff Writer schools in Henrico County, but ing pizza at Fox Hall and a dance ca. understand the material bet- Becca wanted to create a group party for everyone. Then, the This branch off of Younglife has ter” said Mr. Zanetti that was “geared toward a differ- group sings songs, led by Becca brought groups of youth who do Daniel did not prepare for Blasting ‘Party in the U.S.A.’ ent audience.” and others, followed by a skit not normally meet together and the test. Getting eight hours and Justin Beiber hits while The name of the new Young performed by the student lead- helps to create a solid founda- of sleep and eating his nor- dancing around the Fox Hall Life is Capernaum, which was ers, which are usually very goofy tion of friendships. Capernaum mal breakfast of chocolate clubhouse, the teens enjoy party- the name of a fishing village that and make everyone laugh. draws from many high schools chip pancakes and orange ing and fellowshipping with one was located along the Sea of The students then all are en- within Henrico, including Free- juice was all the preparation another monthly at Young Life. Galilee: a place mentioned with- couraged to play a game, which man, Godwin, and Deep Run, Daniel needed. Senior Becca Hyman is chang- in the Bible that they read every helps them become more com- and it even has students come He didn’t let distractions ing the lives of disabled teens meeting. fortable with other people and from Powhatan High School. dissuade him from meeting around Richmond through the At first Becca was unsure how get to know one another better. “The teens that attend Caper- his goals. “There is not time ministry of Young Life for those to start a Young Life, being such One leader of the group then naum are just like you and me,” to get off track! You have to who do not normally get the a large feat, and she didn’t think reads a verse of scripture for the Becca said, and they would love use each second effectively.” chance to enjoy the weekly events that she had the power. But cur- group to think about, and then to have more students come en- said Daniel it entails. Last March, Becca felt rently, she is a student leader for the “open mic” begins. joy the time of fellowship and Now that the SATs are inspired to start a Young Life Capernaum, and helps perform Becca remembers a countless getting to know one another. behind him, Daniel can fo- for the mentally and physically skits and music for the attend- number of funny and inspiring The group normally meets the cus on applying to the col- disabled teens that attend high ees. memories she has made while third Tuesday of every month, leges and universities that he schools around Richmond after Capernaum is often “more being a part of Capernaum dur- and to find out how to become would like to attend. hearing a youth leader Paul Mill- fun” than the Young Life the rest ing the monthly meetings. involved with Capernaum con- With a GPA of 4.5 and er speak. of the student body attends, said “These kids are really great tact Becca Hyman. a class ranking of 35 there are many opportunities and options for Daniel. On his Breakdance club, ‘We can teach you how to Dougie’ short list are Brandeis, Co- lumbia, Harvard, James Madison, Johns Hopkins, “The club has some outside University of Virginia, Wil- Delaney Firer experience come in to help with choreography and teaching the liams, and William and Staff Writer Mary. moves but they get most of their Daniel advises students ideas from YouTube. They watch who have yet to take the other teams and people perform test. “Don’t stress about the After Homecoming, you may ,and when they see a move they test. It’s not hard, just tricky. have realized that your dance like they keep watching it over If you don’t understand a skills aren’t exactly what you and over until they can do it, concept, go to your math promised your date. But no wor- then they’ll teach. It’s very much or English teacher for help. ries, you can stop your search a share culture through You- However, most of the time, here. Freeman’s Breakdance Tube. Mr. Foltz and I aren’t out you know the answer it’s just Team can “teach you how to on the floor doing the worm and how the question is worded. Dougie.” poppin’ and lockin’” said Mr. When you take the test, This is the Breakdance Team’s Townsend. don’t panic, you have plenty fourth year of existence and the Some members of the team of time. Most of the mis- crew is as close as ever. even take breakdancing outside takes you are going to make “The team is a very familial of school. For example, Johnny are just stupid, time-related group of kids, but they are very has another more serious break- errors that you would never accepting to new members. Some dance team outside of school PHOTO:S. RIDGE make if you had more time. of the teammates were more that he performs with as well as verse clubs on campus, and there Calm, down, and don’t wor- timid in class, but in breakdanc- the school team. to improve” said Johnny. is a spot for anybody there. ry about the time factor,” ing they are the most outgoing, “We do shows for my church The Breakdance Team focuses “It’s not just about doing moves, said Daniel. they just needed an outlet. There and also I go to local breakdance on meeting new friends, build- is a spot for everyone there” said jams and those are big inspira- ing confidence and expressing but more about expressing your- Mr. Townsend, co-sponsor of the tions. Seeing people in their yourself. Members encourage self through the dance. There are Breakdance Team. twenties doing really amazing students to join the crew on other dances that spend years “Dancing in public is a really moves is a huge inspiration for Wednesdays, after school in the and years to perfect but with big confidence booster for me” me to get better. Also when I see annex. First timers and Break- breakdancing you can just create says Co-Captain of the Break- younger kids who are a lot better dance protégés are all welcome. it your own and make it apart of dance Team, Junior Johnny Bui. than me it really makes me want The group is one of the most di- you,” said Johnny. The Commentator Special Features Vol 57, No.3 December 2010 6-7

The secret lives of Freeman teachers New English Science teacher publishes book Anne Aurelia Lewis teacher is fit to Staff Writer Bored of reading books teach- ers assign you? How about reading a book that a Free- man teacher has written rather teach! than assigned? Earth science teacher, Mr. Kenneth Barnes Teacher fosters more than just sciencehas recently written and pub- Katherine Krudys lished a book about his mis- sionary work throughout the Staff Writer away from family can cause ter parents through Henrico years called, A Chicken Farm Kimberly Easterling lots of stress and uneasiness County. and Other Sacred Places. Dancing to oldies music on Copy Editor in anyone’s life. Jack*, his fos- “Over 2 years ago I went “The theme is service,” said top of a platform at the swim- ter child, can relate to that. through a 2 month certifica- Mr. Barnes who has completed missionary work with young ming pool, English teacher Ms. You would think that Mr. “Foster care has been a dif- tion class. I am also required to adults through cross-cultural Christina Koschak spent her ficult experience, but I have maintain certification points,” Jeffrey Meador would be tired missionary trips to Hawaii, summer instructing lipstick- of teenagers after teaching AP learned from it and grown,” said Mr. Meador. wearing elderly women in wa- Chile, Argentina, Paraguay, Environmental Science and said Jack. “The dynamics of foster ter aerobics. Water aerobics Spain, and the Ukraine. As in most teenager-parent families are affected by the is one of the many exercise Biology all day, but obviously Chuckling to himself, Mr. relationships, hanging out classes Ms. Koschak teaches at he isn’t. A year and a half ago relationships and experiences Barnes adds that he “spent a lot the Country Club of Virginia Mr. Meador volunteered to be together is a “low priority.” the child had before they ever of time in the Red Light Dis- Just like in any other ordi- (CCV). a foster parent to a 17 year old came in care. It is impossible trict as a church group” during PHOTO: CROWDER “Since I’ve been teaching here boy. nary family, they usually have to fully understand how these his times out of the country. meals together, but afterwards The book encourages and [Freeman], I have taught about Mr. Meador, an environ- experiences have impacted the Mr. Barnes holds up his book to show to all! four classes a week. During the mentally savvy man who loves and on most weekends, Jack foster child,” said Mr. Meador. explains to readers the impor- PHOTO: KOSCHAK tance of service throughout the summer, I was teaching about traveling and spending time in is with his friends. Once again, just as with any world and community. Not “I didn’t really want to structor, Carlon Robinson who six to seven days a week.” Koschak teaches a yoga class one sunny morning. The two live and get along ordinary mother or father, be- the outdoors thought he had only does it show Mr. Barnes’ write a book, but people at encouraged him throughout “I teach during the week at something to offer to a kid who well together despite their ing a parent has changed Mr. my church kept telling me I the six years on the acknowl- 5:30 or 5:45,” said Ms. Ko- Ms. Koschak thinks her Gym a lot. I exercise six days a community service hours but needed a home. Although Mr. extreme differences because Meador’s life. needed to put in print the sto- edgement page. When he schak. classes are tough workouts. week either running, teaching, also shows his devotion to pro- they are both rather low key. “I focus more on the big pic- ries I told about my services,” sent out his manuscript, the Her classes include boot “I am probably, no definitely, or on my own.” Meador’s foster son is pretty viding aid to those in need of In many ways they function as said Mr. Barnes describing his church congregation, family, camps, spin classes, weight lift- the youngest instructor so my Ms. Koschak thinks her stu- much the complete opposite ture rather than the details. I assistance. The book is a col- classes are more strenuous,” dents need more exercise. of himself, Mr. Meador finds a normal family and in some am more flexible about things, lection of Mr. Barnes’ service influences to write the book. and friends stood next to Mr. ing, and step classes. He did “not write an outline Barnes through the publica- she said. “They are lazy. Put them in other things to teach him. ways maybe even better. I listen more and assume less, trips through a time period of John Gayle, father of junior as a reference, but just basi- tion. Lia Gayle is one of Ms. Ko- Mr. Gayle said Ms. Koschak front of a computer and they “A great deal of my guidance “We work hard to communi- and most importantly my faith 17 years. Each story is signifi- has high expectations. are out,” she said. cate and be respectful of one cant in its own way and pro- cally started writing stories “Ordinary tasks are not ordi- schak’s spin class participants. focuses on life skills,” said Mr. has grown stronger,” said Mr. one after the other,” he said. nary to God,” said Mr. Barnes Mr. Gayle has been taking spin “I say push a lot. I say get She recommended exercise Meador, “Getting him ready to another,” said Mr. Meador. Meador. vides the reader an insight on different cultures through the “Once I got it out there, and he describes this as the for a number of years, and he out of your comfort zone. classes as a great way to work- assume responsibility is a huge They probably hate me think- out. world. people were very supportive,” morals he wants to give the defines spin as riding a station- part of the focus.” When Mr. Meador decided * Name has been changed due “Exercise classes offer a “Working on a chicken farm said Mr. Barnes who thanks reader. His motives for writing ary bike to music. Mr. Gayle ing about that,” she said. that he wanted to help people to privacy issues. group atmosphere that pushes Foster kids generally become is not very spectacular to all the people “who have been the book were to inform indi- describes music as an integral Ms. Koschak grew up work- in ways that might impact ing out and loving exercise you harder than you would more independent at an earlier people but sometimes it is to very encouraging” to him. “I viduals about the importance part of the class. them for the rest of their appreciate how encourag- of service. “There are some instructors classes because she enjoyed push yourself. Also you are age than other kids. Moving God,” said Mr. Barnes who be- life, he chose to go through ing the faculty has been to- Mr. Barnes book, A Chicken that people don’t go to because the drive that the group atmo- working with a trainer who from home to home and being gan writing the book six years sphere created. knows form and how to moni- the training program for fos- ago during his summers off wards this project,” said Mr. Farm and Other Sacred Places, they don’t like the music,” Barnes. will be on the Wwampublish- said Mr. Gayle, but “everyone Then while at JMU, Ms. tor heart rate for an effective from teaching students. The Koschak started teaching ex- and efficient workout.” first three years were used for “I would like to thank my ing website and came out dur- likes the music that she [Ms. wife, Sharon, who became a ing the first week of November Koschak] picks.” However, he ercise classes. Mr. Gayle encouraged spin writing the novel and the other “There was a bad instruc- classes for students and fellow three were publishing years. book widow for more than a 2010. says most of the participants year to facilitate its writing,” “I’m just a teacher who wrote are twenty years older than her tor at JMU, and I thought if parents. “It was a long continuous pro- she can do it, I can do it,” she “It is great way to exercise. cess of putting it [book] before said Mr. Barnes in the first a book” and “this is the begin- and are sometimes unfamiliar pages of his book. He also ning and the end of my writing with her music choices. said. Sometimes exercising in a gym people and waiting” said Mr. “I really like helping people is boring, but the thing that is Barnes. acknowledges Freeman’s al- career,” said Mr. Barnes. Mr. Gayle believes Ms. Ko- ternative learning center in- schak’s workouts are one of get the best workout and get great about spinning is it really the most demanding. what they came for whether makes the classes go faster and “When, I come to class and that is for fun, to get in shape, it is much more pleasant than I see her I know I am going to to relieve stress,” said Ms. Ko- grinding out to a machine by sweat, and she is one of the schak. yourself.” Foltz in Folk Band toughest instructors and one of Teaching exercise classes “At JMU I taught boxing. I the best,” said Mr. Gayle. in college helped prepare Ms. think teenagers would have a “She is always making us Koschak for teaching Eng- lot of fun boxing,” said Ms. “I’ve heard Rattlesnake play musical careers. lish. Koschak. about three times at Forest Hill “We are currently recording crank the resistance, and she Olivia Stevenson likes to make us sprint all out, “I think the fact that I was Ms. Koschak has never had Farmers Market. It’s a fusion for a new CD so there are not which kills all the old people,” standing in front of a mirror any Freeman students in her Staff Writer of old traditional bluegrass any scheduled live events in the he said. and sweating made me more classes, and she warns any stu- music with short term memory near future,” Mr. Foltz said. On a scale of one to ten he comfortable teaching stu- dents who might consider tak- loss and humming to the rest Mr. Foltz said Rattlesnake rated her class as an eight to dents.” ing one of her classes, “you can When shopping at Forest Hill of songs,” said Spanish teacher Creek formed through Craig- nine in terms of difficulty Ms. Koschak has a com- take it but be ready to cry.” Farmers Market, make sure to Mr. Sam Peterson. slist, initially starting with a while he ranked other instruc- mitment to fitness and she PHOTO: RIDGE stop by and listen to earth sci- “It is wholesome,” said Mr. weekly jam then turning into Peterson. He enjoys seeing tors a five or six. encourages that commitment Mr. Meador teaching his AP Environmental class. ence teacher Patrick Foltz play a band once everyone started “When it’s over,” said Mr. for others. in his bluegrass band Rattle- Mr. Foltz show his talent since to get to know each other. The Gayle when deciding his fa- “I am training for the half snake Creek. Usually Rattle- he rarely gets to exhibit it at band members enjoy perform- vorite part of Ms. Koschak’s marathon. I run about twenty snake Creek is most likely to be school. ing the most out of anything class. miles a week. I am at Gold’s found “jamming” at churches, Rattlesnake Creek rehearsals they do together. farmers markets, coffee hous- are held at the Foltz residence “It’s like teaching, but you es, barn parties and “old folk’s where the band plays their don’t have to teach anything homes.” Mr. Foltz plays the older songs, works on their or give anyone tests,” said upright bass. techniques, and works on new Mr. Foltz. “Everyone is there Rattlesnake Creek is a tradi- songs. Most of their rehearsals to have a good time and you So you think you know your teachers? tional bluegrass band that oc- revolve around planning for are helping them have a good casionally plays Grateful Dead their summer playing season. time by sharing the music with Catch a glimpse of the secret lives of your Freeman teachers and Beatles covers. The Beatles Now that their summer con- them” Mr. Foltz said. covers are the songs that their certs are over, they are concen- Mr. Foltz has had plenty of English teacher Mr. Steve Math teacher Mrs. Sanders fans enjoy the most. trating on the next step to their exciting, “wild” experiences from playing in his Payne is an ordained minister! was a member of the Uni- band. He encourages others to find their English teacher Ms. Megan Corker has a versity of South Carolina’s passion and follow their dreams. sound system installed in the back of her car “Chase your dreams Latin teacher Ms. Carter Women’s D1 Softball team! hard enough and so she can listen to rap music to the fullest you’ll eventually Smiley was a UVA cheerlead- catch them,” said Mr. Foltz. To get more er! (She once led a cheer that quality! information on Rat- English teacher Mrs. Boyles tlesnake Creek, look greeted Justin Timberlake at a them up on their Fa- Psychology teacher Mr. Mark Faglioni was a is a certified scuba diver! cebook page. gymnast during his high school years.

PHOTOs: FOLTZ Foltz singing in his Rattlesnake Creek band The Commentator 8 Vol 57, No.3 December 2010 Sports

Fall Sports Familiar face serves as new in Brief wrestling coach Football Ailor as intense, Ailor admits he Highlight: The Rebels is just what Emily Meyer is “going to try to bring up the F r e e m a n made a late comeback Staff Writer intensity this year.” “He likes to w r e s t l i n g against Patrick Henry have fun, but he knows when it is n e e d s , ” time to be serious,” Parker said. Parker said. to win on a last second Although Preston Ailor is usu- “Coach Ailor plans to get our “I am hop- touchdown. ally teaching physics or coach- team to districts this year by ing to build Record: 3-7 ing football, he is now taking up working on the three s’s: skill, a founda- Most Valuable a new challenge: coaching the stamina, and strength,” said tion for a wrestling team. Ailor was the as- Sophomore Andrew Donchez. p r o g r a m Offensive player : Mac sistant coach last year, but will be According to Coach Ailor, the that will win Hudgins the head coach this winter. team has “worked hard and put constantly. I Most Valuable Defensive When Coach Ailor went to in a lot of time during the off am trying to Freeman he was a member of season, which should pay off.” get us back player: Kevin Moore the wrestling team, which at the Although the season does not to what time won districts almost every start until November 15th, many we used year. wrestlers attended camps and to be, and “I had a great experience with work out daily. I’m lucky Golf the coaches we had. I loved “Our biggest competition this enough the Highlight- Finished the wrestling and I want to get back year will most likely be Hermit- guy that season 9-5 into that,” said Coach Ailor. age because they have many built that “Coach Ailor is very intense young wrestlers who start var- team is still Most Valuable : during practice and he makes sity,” said Andrew. here (Coach Connor Hill sure we are working hard. He Parker is very excited about B r i g h t ) , ” Most Improved: Chris leads the team by example and Ailor being the new coach. said Coach Coach Ailor at practice PHOTO: SEAN RIDGE he will often wrestle with us in “I have wrestled with Coach Ailor. Knaysi practice to help us improve,” said Ailor since I was a freshman, Although Ailor said he has a great season with his leader- Senior Parker Steenburgh, who and I don't think there is a better ship. has been on the wrestling team man for the job. He is young for “doubts about being the new for four years. a head coach, but he definitely guy,” with his effort and determi- Boys Although Parker describes knows what he is doing and he nation the wrestlers should have Cross Country Highlight: Team made it to state tournament. The family rivalry lives on Most Valuable : Silas Frantz Lindsay Tilley Coach’s Award: Staff Writer David Coffey Most Improved: Ronnie As basketball season is ap- Calkins proaching, Freeman students are awaiting to the see the Mann power on the court. Justin and Jasmin Mann both Girls have a strong basketball back- ground. Justin has been playing Cross Country since he was four and Jasmine Highllight: Placed sixth since she was about eight years in regional tournament old. Justin and Jasmin can both be found playing basketball at Most Valuable: the YMCA in the off season. Catherine B “I’m a better all-around point Coach’s Award: guard than Justin, but he is better PHOTO: SEAN RIDGE at dribbling,” admits Jasmin. The family rivalry spills onto the Freeman court. Samantha Shaffer Mos Justin on the other hand said, Improved: Rachel Smith “I’m a better player”. “Jasmin is a fierce competitor positive outlooks for the upcom- this year and be district champi- This competitiveness encourag- and likes to win,” said Coach ing season. ons and it’s also exciting because es improvement for both Jasmine McGilvary, the girls’ varsity bas- “I think we’re going to have an it’s my senior year,” said Justin. and Justin. ketball coach. okay season, hopefully people This sibling rivalry motivates Boys Volleyball “I motivate Jasmin to get her “I would describe Jasmin as will be taking it seriously,” said improvement that will show on Highlight: Made it to the where she is now because she hardworking and highly moti- Jasmin. the court for both Justin and Jas- first round of the Re- has always seen me play, and she vated,” said Coach Mac. “I’m excited for the season be- min Mann. says she is better than me which Jasmin and Justin both have cause we should go undefeated gional tournament where motivates me,” said Justin. they suffered a tough loss to Matoaca. Senior Leadership Junior skates his way to success Award: Evan Smith Specialist of the Year: Clark Thornhill Astacia Pegram Rebel Award: Dylan Staff Writer Hicks Breaking his arm but never his spirit or determination, Junior Joey Zielinski has been commit- Girls Volleyball ted to ice hockey for 7 years. Highlight: Improving Before he was born, his parents from the 2009 season and had season passes to ice hockey games in Washington, D.C.; af- finishing with a 12-10 ter he and his brother were born, record they brought them along as well. Most Valuable Player: Joey and his brother met up with people and learned how to skate. Megan Payne At 9 years old, he actually start- Coaches award: ed playing ice hockey with his Maggie Nave brother though he was influenced by his father, Mr. Joseph Zielin- ski. Ice hockey interested him because it’s a “fun, fast-paced, Field Hockey physical sport”; he doesn’t know Highlight: Finishe the if he will ever go pro though. season with only three Joey plays for the Richmond Royals. His team practices at losses the Richmond Ice Zone. There, PHOTO: JOEY ZIELINSKI Most Valuable: he meets up with his team every Joey in action on the local rink. Mattie Newman Tuesday and Thursday for an hour, occasionally 2 hours on Thursdays. His team does power him in the game. He said that mom. Royals have played the Nova Ice skating, or suicides, and passing his coach, Coach Gruhl, is a re- His style on the ice is “aggres- Dogs, the Metro Maple Leaves and shooting drills. ally good coach and is “strict but sive” and “hard-hitting” accord- and Hampton Roads. Competition According to his mom, Mrs. fun.” ing to his He said that his biggest achieve- Martha Zielinski, ice hockey is To get ready mom. Even ment was when his team won the Cheering a huge time commitment, so he for a game, “He’s a leader. He helps though he Silver Six Tournament two years Joey goes to has broken ago. The winners of the Silver Senior Leadership plans accordingly to make sure to initiate the plays. He he manages getting his work the rink an his arm and Six Tournament won a trip to Award: done along with playing and hour before helps to keep the team on has had a Ontario, Canada. Joey said that Catherine McCormick practicing. to run and track,” said his mom. minor con- the trip to Canada is the most Anne McGraw “I have to do my AP notes at stretch. A cussion, she memorable moment he has had the last minute because ice hock- game has 3 doesn’t wor- playing ice hockey. Carson Strange ey takes up about 3 hours”, said periods of 15 ry about the According to his mother, ice Joey. minutes. He dangers of hockey has helped Joey grow as a Joey plays left wing, a for- said his goal in every game is to the sport because they have a lot person; he has made new friends ward offensive player on the left win. of safety gear. and learned to work with others. side. He’s also on “power play”, “He’s a leader. He helps to Joey’s team competes through- He has learned that “hard work which means whenever the team initiate the plays. He helps to out North Carolina, Maryland pays off ”. needs to score, the coach puts keep the team on track,” said his and Virginia. The Richmond The Commentator Sports Vol 57, No.3 December 2010 09

Concussions: Football’s biggest rival cussions. more Jeff Bai- Gates Deppner “A lot of concussions happen ley cannot re- Staff Writer during special teams because kids member what are running very fast and every- happened when one is getting hit,” said Coach he sustained his Within the last few months, Davidson. concussion. But helmet to helmet contact has Concussions can happen to any he does remem- caused many high profile inju- player though. “I have had line- ber what the hit ries. Eric LeGrand, a Rutgers man get it. I have had wide re- felt like. University football player, was ceivers get them too,” said Coach “After got hit, recently paralyzed from the neck Davidson. I felt a sharp down due to a tackle he made If a player gets a concussion dur- pain in my eyes against United States Military ing a game, the team doctor has and on the side Academy. LeGrand and the to determine whether the player of the head,” U.S.M.A. player collided heads can continue playing. According said Jeff. causing LeGrand to become to webmd.com, some signs of Junior Drake paralyzed. a concussion include: vomiting, Price has also According to brainline.org, a headaches, memory loss, and received a con- concussion is a blow or jolt to blurred vision. If the player does cussion this sea- the head that can change the way have a concussion, the doctor will son. His con- your brain normally works. also have to make an evaluation cussion might Lately in the National Football on how long a player must miss have been a re- League, there has been a big dis- practice. sult of his play cussion on the topic helmet to Freshmen Cotter Leonard was style. “I stay helmet contact. Helmet to hel- Á hard hit can send a player into a concussion PHOTO: J. CROWDER involved in helmet to helmet low. Get lower than the man in met plays not only happen in the sions over time can lead to long contact earlier this season that front of me,” said Drake. also to be a more protective layer N.F.L. These types of plays also term memory loss and behavior sidelined him for the rest of the Football helmet companies are between the wearer’s head and happen on the college and high disorders. season. taking steps to improve helmet the outside of the helmet. school level. “The risk of early-onset Al- “I don’t remember what hap- technology to help minimize Concussions can lead to health Freeman football players can zheimer’s disease increases five- pened,” said Cotter. The play left damage on the player’s head. problems later on in life. Once a also experience many head inju- fold for someone with at least him in the hospital for a full day New helmets are designed with person receives a concussion, it ries while playing. These injuries three concussions,” said Mike and “I lost memory for that entire more padding inside the helmet. will be easier in the future to get can happen in any play during Andrews, a former Assistant day,” said Cotter. This padding is designed to dis- another concussion. According a game, but there is one type of Sports Information Director at Like Cotter Leonard, sopho- perse the shock from a hit and to webmd.com, multiple concus- play that is more prone to con- Hampden-Sydney University. Senior horseback rider trots to the top

“Freshman year I won the which she compares to “figure good, I got the biggest honor that Perhaps this results from her sportsmanship award. That was Sarah Bellet skating in how everything is I could have possibly gotten for parents’ support. Staff Writer pretty.” “My parents have always There is even a history behind pushed that school comes first.” hunters as the competition is For prioritizing her school When senior Elizabeth Cook based on fox hunters of old Eng- work: she claims junior year goes to school, she goes through land and how they used to ride helped, “that’s when I got re- her day as any other student. She their horses. “The history behind ally good at doing homework in goes to class and does her home- it is really cool,” she said school.” work, but after school is when Her love of horses has been Her plans for riding include ap- Elizabeth’s day really begins. a ten year long affair. Her first plying to colleges that have rid- After school, about 2-3 days horse’s name was Daniel and she ing programs or colleges that are a week, for 2-3 hours at a time, still rides him from time to time close to riding ranges. Elizabeth rides horses. She has now, even though she practices Overall, her plans for riding see been riding since she was 7. Her with other horses as well. no end in sight. There seems to grandfather “was big into hors- “It’s the only sport where the be no stopping her and her pas- es,” she said. equipment has a mind of its sion for horses. And for Eliza- Her grandfather was her big- own,” she said. Even though beth her drive and compassion gest influence as he encouraged she can’t control the horse all the for riding are limitless. her from the beginning to get time, she loves them. One of the “The beauty and joy of riding into riding. When she was 3, he most exciting parts of riding for is that you can do it for the rest her is “what is my horse going to PHOTO: FACEBOOK.COM of your life.” grandfather told her. “I’m gonna a really big honor for me mostly look at?” and “giving the horse what I was doing.” buy you a pony.” because my dad was deployed. confidence” in competition. Elizabeth balances school and “It was our thing,” she said. I have two younger sisters and Elizabeth’s biggest accomplish- riding. “She turns her work in “It was how are you, and how’s my mom had to stay home with ment was a competition three on time,” said classmate, friend your horse?” them. It made me feel really She competes as a “hunter,” years ago. and fellow senior Pooja Shah.

Senior gives snowboarding tips to beginners

Snowboarding tips:

Make sure all your equiptment fits Do not attempt to ride slopes beyond your ability Always wear a helmet

PHOTO: L. DEAN

pioneers accredited with popu- you get $25 off lessons. Senior signs with Notre Dame larizing snowboarding, Jake on If you don’t want to rent a the East Coast and Tom on the cheap resort snowboard, Peter Senior Mac Hudgins signed with Notre Dame University West, have forever changed the Glenn, the local snow pro shop to play baseball. Mac chose Notre Dame for its prestigious history of snow sports. rents good products for a fair academics and athletics programs. His older brother Will, Michael Nicholson Snowboarding has been one price. The guys in there are very a Freeman graduate, is a pitcher on Notre Dame’s baseball Sports Editor of my favorite activities for years good at what they do, and they team. now, and I strongly recommend are fun to talk to since they have Mac accredits his success to hard work and great coaching that if you have the slightest urge lots of experience and lots of along the way from his coaches: Ken Moore, Ray Moore, When the days start to get to try it, go up to Wintergreen or good stories. Mak, Kevin Steele, Jim Roney, and Dan Geary. He also at- shorter and you can feel the nip Snowshoe or anywhere and just Then some helpful hints for tributed his parents for his accomplishments. in the air you know it’s time to spend a day or weekend trying when you hit the slopes: make “My parents were a very good influence on me. They really throw on the ski rack, dust off it out. It isn’t the easiest sport to sure all your equipment fits. did a lot for me,” he said. your board and start praying for pick up, just remember it requires Start on the greens, they are the some big storms to hit. practice and patience. easiest. Then once you are on Snowboarders, a staple of Some tips I recommend for any your snowboard balance is key. American subculture for many beginner is to grab some water- Remember half the fun is falling years now, have become so main- proof ski pants a jacket and re- down, if you fall continuously stream that Shawn White is a member dress in layers. do not be discouraged its all part well-known celebrity. Go take a day trip; Wintergreen of the learning process. What started with the inven- and Snowshoe offers a “guaran- Get out to the slopes and have tion of a children’s toy called the teed learn to ride” program. At a fun. In the words of Warren snurfer (snow surfer) in 1965 later Wintergreen a full day lift ticket Miller, “if you don’t do it this evolved into much more. Starting is $69 and it’s a close enough year, you’ll be one year older in the garages of Vermont native drive to make it a day trip. Win- when you do.” Jake Burton Carpenter and Lake tergreen also offers the option Tahoe local Tom Sims, the two if you book a weekend package

PHOTO: L. DEAN The Commentator A & E Vol 57, No.3 December 2010 11

Romantic dates for winter break

The show opens on December Peyton Williams 10 and is followed by 11 other Staff Writer performances lasting through the 23. However, if you’re not willing Throughout the school year, to throw down those few extra many Freeman couples are faced dollars, you can put in your fa- with the ongoing question of vorite holiday CD and drive out “What should we do this week- to Lewis Ginter Botanical Gar- end?” and often times, they find dens for their annual Dominion themselves at a dead end, decid- Gardenfest of Lights. ing to simply sit at home and After dark, from November order yet another chick-flick On 29 – January 10, you will find Demand. the garden lit up with over half a So, as the holiday season ap- million lights, offering a roman- proaches, switch things up a bit tic evening under the stars for and jump into the hustle and only $10 a person. bustle of Richmond’s countless If you’re not up for the drive, festivities. you can also find an eccentric If you want to get a taste of display of lights right here in Richmond’s theatrical produc- Richmond on the annual Tacky tions, Richmond Shakespeare is Light Tour. Starting at the be- performing A Christmas Carol ginning of December and last- for Two Actors at the Carpenter ing through the New Year, this Center from December 20 – 22. unique tour will be sure to leave This unique performance has your eyes sparkling and lift your been offered for the past 12 years holiday spirit. and is a memorable experience Since renting a limo can get that will leave you reminded of pretty pricey, you can find maps the true spirit of the season, and of the tour online and experience Photo : S Ridge good news for the guys – tickets the adventure of being your own are only $18. tour guide, which is not only For just a couple bucks more, cheaper but also provides a more you can also head down to the personal experience. grabbing a peppermint mocha front of a classic holiday movie some of the city’s holiday favor- Carpenter Center for Richmond If winter break is only halfway from Starbucks. such as “It’s a Wonderful Life,” ites. Ballet’s The Nutcracker, an an- over and you’re still at a loss of Also, if you find that you simply “White Christmas” or “A Mira- As junior Brittany Snyder said, nual production that will take what to do, other fun activities need to escape the overwhelming cle on 34th Street.” “The holidays are the perfect you back to your childhood and include ice skating at Skate Na- excitement of the holiday sea- Whatever it is you choose to time to go out on the town and be sure to put you in the holiday tion or taking a stroll around son, grab some candy canes, pop do, be sure to take advantage of experience Richmond with that spirit. Stony Point Fashion Park after some popcorn and cuddle up in Richmond’s festivities and enjoy special someone.” Harry Potter film to please wizard fans

While some students were first in movie had more scenes focus- Caroline Heese line for the midnight premiere, ing on where the characters were and who they met. Editor-in-Chief others waited until later in the weekend to see it. I was expecting a faster Although the Harry Potter paced movie with more mo- books are among some of my ments that would have you on favorites, the movies never cease the edge of your seat. Although I enjoyed watching the interac- to amaze me. Despite the fact tions between Ron, Hermione that the movies usually leave out and Harry, I was hoping for more details from the books, I still get plot development. excited when a new one comes The creators of the film left out. out many vital details from the In “Harry Potter and the book that would have someone Deathly Hallows, Part one,” the who had not read the books a characters never go to Hogwarts, little confused. I will admit that instead they choose to search it would not have been hard to for Horcruxes. What exactly is follow the movie if you had not a Horcrux? Well, without giving read it but you would not have away too much it is basically an been able to pick up on the im- object with a part of the soul of portance of some events. “he who shall not be named.” In the end I enjoyed see- They are mainly used to attain ing some of my favorite people immorality, which can only be return to the screen. Despite the done when you kill someone. So fact that there were a few parts basically they are a form of dark left out, like the rest of the letter magic. in Sirius’ room, and that some Dressing up as a dementor or Most of the movie is spent sections of the book were not Professor Trelawney may seem capturing where they go, who portrayed correctly in the movie, odd to you, but for Harry Potter they meet and how they will de- the movie makers still did more fans this is as normal as brush- stroy a Horcrux. We finally get right than they did wrong. By the ing your teeth. to see Godric’s Hollow, which end of the two hours and twenty On Thurs. Nov. 18 the halls is the birth place of Harry Pot- seven minutes I was still as excit- at Freeman were filled with stu- ter, and we meet beloved Luna ed about the movie as I had been Lovegood’s father. Even though at the beginning, and would not dents who were anticipating the I liked being able to match an premiere of “Harry Potter and have traded my time spent with http://tinyurl.com/39gsbma image with a character or place, Harry Potter and a few friends the Deathly Hallows, Part one.” I was not very pleased that the for anything else.

Harry Potter fans respond to “The Deathly Hallows” “‘Twas my favorite Harry “I thought it was good, but you “It can’t be compared to “Very thrilling and there “It was the best, but it did Potter movie of them all; any other Harry Potter,” said were some edge-of-my-seat a terrific job setting us up for would have to read the book to sophomore Thomas Rowe. understand what was going on, filled to the brim with action moments,” said freshman the best one coming summer and suspense, I was sitting 2011,” said Andrea Baker, because there were just certain Mavra Masood things that they didn’t explain on the edge of my seat the Art teacher. fully, but I’m glad they split it entire time,” saids junior Ty- up,” said senior Katie Jimison. ler Krejci. Google TV Revolutionizes Television Experience Google TV is a new feature for and tune in to channels and check your fantasy teams stats If you’re wondering how Matt Tyson to your television that combines individual shows. You can find on the same screen as the game. you can get your hands on this your TV, DVR recordings, and and record your favorite shows, You can see what people are product, you’re in luck. Google Staff Writer the entire internet all on one and easily access any programs saying about breaking news on TV made its debut in the U.S. screen. Some of the newer TVs that you had previously recorded blogs or Twitter while you watch market on October 17 in various on the market have Google TV or saved. it. You can access your photos, stores including Best Buy. Price In our high-tech world of pre-installed. If not, you can Google TV also has a built-in music, and your favorite games ranges for separate iPads, apps, and 3D television, easily buy a separate Google TV web browser, so you can record, like Farmville or Tetris. Google TV boxes range from most people probably wonder box to hook up to your television search for and save episodes You can also download most of $300 to $400 dollars. Price rang- how these people come up with set. It is easy to set up and works of your favorite shows on the in- the more than 50,000 apps at- es for televisions with Google these amazing gadgets. Others seamlessly with your existing TV ternet. You can also watch vid- tainable on the android market. TV preinstalled range from $600 wonder how they can possibly and internet. eos and clips on YouTube and You can even personalize to $1,400 dollars. think of anything that can top While it may be difficult other video sites. your viewing experience with the If you want to learn more their previous creations. Here to understand how Google TV The combination of the web custom home screen, where you information on Google TV, visit we can give a sneak peak at what works, it is actually quite simple. and television means you now can edit and access your favor- their website at google.com/TV, will probably become the next First, start with your television. have the ability to do things you ite channels, show your favorite or go to YouTube and search for big craze, the innovative and re- Now add the capability to search could never do before. You can channels, shows, and websites. the Google TV informational markably unique Google TV. video. The Commentator 12 Vol 57, No.3 December 2010 The Back Page

Freeman theatre takes crowds into the dream

phy’s first play it took her about cult to understand” said Sam. one month to learn all her lines. Mrs. Spears had the actors dis- Garland Barksdale Mary Spears is the head of the sect every line in order to make Staff Writer theatre department at Freeman sure they understood the play and has had a lot of experience and she also made them look up The Douglas Freeman Play- directing and performing play. Shakespearean words they did ers performed Shakespeare’s “A “Mrs. Spears is amazing and not know using a lexicon. A lexi- Midsummer Night’s Dream” on helped me and the rest of the con is a reference book that lists Nov. 18-120, and while the ac- cast tremendously, as she does word and their meanings and tors spoke the language as if it with every other production. contains ancient language. was second nature, it took a lot Without her the plays would be “Sometimes I even had to use of memorizing and practicing to just like every other high school Mrs. Spears’ Shakespeare lexi- truly understand it. show, but she is such a profes- con to look up some meanings “A Midsummer Night’s sional and actually cares about of words because he often made Dream” is the second play free- the way a show looks and each up words too if he couldn’t find man has recited by Shakespeare. actor’s individual progression, one he liked” said Sam. For the actors it was a difficult which is why Freeman shows are As well as having the actors dis- so above-par” said Becca. sect each line, Mrs. Spears also and daunting task to learn an im- Photo: Emily Meyer & Garland Barksdale mense amount of lines especially Shakespeare can be difficult showed “them a video from the in a language that is not com- to learn and understand at first, Royal Shakespeare Company everyone understood the basic mer Night’s Dream” were able monly spoken among people. but by studying the language it talking about how to speak the idea of the story. “It helped a to learn a language that is not Senior Becca Hyman learned becomes much easier to under- language and how to deal with great deal in remembering the common among people today, her lines in two weeks, but it took stand so it was easier for senior the verse” said Becca. lines once I understood what but with hard work and lots of “three weeks to be comfortable Sam Post to learn his lines. In order to learn the lines play, was going on in certain scene” time they were able to speak the without a script on stage”. Since “I was very familiar with the Mrs. Spears had the actors read said Sarah. language that seems foreign to it was sophomore Sarah Mur- language so it was not too diffi- through the play to make sure The actors of “A Midsum- many. The Key to What to watch when we welcome Winter Wisdom

movie stars cuties, Chris Brown disorganized Christmas can be interest and no care for others, to and Columbus Short. It is excit- for an elf on a mission. ing to watch all the family mem- realizing the true meaning of the It`s a Wonderful Life is a drama holiday season and what impact bers’ secrets come to the light film, made in 1946, based on a through hilarious arguing, which he can have on the community Carleigh Branch short story called, “The Greatest and his employees. This novel at times turns physical. Chris Gift.” This movie is about a man & Brown’s voice is amazing and has been made into many plays named George Bailey, whose at- and movies over the past century Dominic Capocelli should not be missed this Christ- tempted suicide calls his guard- Staff Writers mas. The singing, interracial and a half. Despite the age of ian angel, Clarence Odbody, this novel, it has stayed relevant relationships and family feuding to rescue him. Clarence shows that put a wedge between fam- and popular and is still a highly George all of the good things recognized holiday story. ily members ultimately bring the he has done for his community, family together and teach them “The Frosty the Snow- all of the people`s lives that he man” movie is a classic 1950 the importance of family. touched, and the consequences Ready for a remix on the holi- “A Christmas Story” is a song which was changed into day season? So why watch a bor- of him committing suicide. It`s a movie in 1969. We enjoy the wonderful holiday movie. It is a Wonderful Life had five Os- ing, cheesy, movie like “Santa extremely funny and show the songs and the dancing in this Claus Conquers the Martians” car nominations along with an cartoon. It shows how imagi- struggles of one little boy, Ral- award from the Golden Globes. when you could watch a classic, phie, who only wants one thing nation and the faith of children Hayden Roberts holiday movie. Take our advice Despite its apparent box office can create anything. Many love for Christmas—BB gun. His failure, this film is regarded as and watch these classic holiday mother is extremely scared for this movie when it is snowing Guest Writer movies with a whole new spin. one of the most classic and one because it is something they re- her son to have a play gun be- of the best “feel good” Christ- “A Charlie Brown Christmas” cause she thinks the “He’ll poke member when they were chil- is based off of the comic strip mas movies of all time. dren. Frosty, is a “happy, jolly his eye out.” We often hear this In the 1957 story, “How the Getting your wisdom Peanuts, by Charles M. Schulz. soul” and many love watching teeth out is a writ of passage. Un- memorable phrase when little Grinch Stole Christmas”, the The movie has aired every holi- boys wish for fake weapons for this classic and how he makes the fortunately, the tooth fairy does day season on ABC since 2001. Grinch, a cave dwelling, cold children happy and completes not come and put money under Christmas. The struggles of Ral- hearted creature is bent on de- From the music to the teacher’s phie to get along with his friends their idea of a perfect Christ- your pillow. You go into an of- horn-like voice, Charles Schultz stroying Christmas and all of mas. Not only is Frosty a classic fice, a needle is stuck into your and to hide his injury from his its festivities. We love watching arm, and next thing you know has created a holiday classic of mother makes families laugh ev- Christmas movie, but it is loved lovable misfits. Charlie Brown’s how evil the Grinch is and how and remembered by all ages and you wake up and feel like you ery holiday season. At the end of are drooling. Wisdom Teeth sur- humility is something we can re- the spirit of Christmas warms generations since it came out, so the movie, Ralphie realizes that his heart. It’s reassuring to know gery is no day in the park. Your late to at Christmas. It is one of maybe his mother was right and say, “happy birthday,” to Frosty face swells up, your mouth hurts, the best holiday movies because that even mean people like the on his sixtieth birthday and pick decides that his best gift was the Grinch can have a change of you can’t eat many types of food, it brings families together year him up for old times` sake! and again, your mouth will real- Zeppelin toy he got instead the heart and become nice, gener- after year. Everyone now loves moral of the movie is to be care- Being home alone when you`re ly hurt. I had my wisdom teeth a bare, skimpy Christmas tree ous individuals. This story has a kid probably doesn’t sound like out in August and I want to pro- ful what you wish for. maintained its reputation as a thanks to Charlie Brown. “Elf ” is a 2003 comedy film the greatest idea in the world. vide you guys with some advice “Rudolph, the Red-Nosed Dr. Seuss classic throughout the But when it comes to Kevin Mc- about making your recovery go starring Will Ferrell, James Caan, years and is a highly memorable as smoothly as possible. Reindeer” is a classic holiday and Zooey Deschanel. These Callister he has it all under con- movie. Everyone loves to watch holiday story and movie. trol I`m sure the name of the 1: ICE: Ice 20 minutes on one funny guys show the adventures side and 20 minutes on the other. Rudolph transform into the hero “A Christmas Carol” is a novel movie I`m am talking about just of a man who thinks he is an elf. written by Charles Dickens in This will really reduce swelling who saves Christmas. We feel Many remember this holiday popped up in your head. Indeed and make recovery time faster. that he is the underdog at the 1843. This story tells of a lonely, “Home Alone” is a memorable comedy because of comedian stingy, and greedy Mr. Scrooge So in other words, there should beginning, but become so proud holiday comedy for all ages. never be a minute where you Will Ferrel. He portrays the life who undergoes a complete trans- when he uses his bright nose to of an adult-sized elf through his Kevin`s adventures and triumphs aren’t icing one side of your lead Santa’s sleigh. Then, all the formation after the visitation of over Harry and Marv have made face. adventures to find his real par- his deceased business partner, other reindeer finally accepted ents. Not only was this movie a this movie into a holiday classic 2: DRINK LOTS OF him. It shows how it’s okay to Jacob Marley, and the ghosts of for all generation. So unless you MILSHAKES. They taste deli- big success in the theatres, being Christmas past, present, and yet cious and help numb the pain. be different and characterizes the nominated for nine awards and think you`re above a good old importance of diversity. to come. Nowadays, we enjoy PG holiday movie, I highly rec- My personal favorite is chocolate winning two, but it is also widely chip ice cream, vanilla ice cream, “This Christmas” is a great this classic movie in many plays ommend Home Alone. recognized as a popular modern put on at Christmas time. We banana, and lots of milk. It is holiday movie because it is a Christmas movie because of the delicious and semi-nutritious. modern take on the ideals of the enjoy seeing Scrooge`s persona comedy of how messed up and change from a man of no holiday (Slurpee’s also taste extremely traditional holiday movies. This good and do a very good job of numbing the pain). 3: RINSE WITH SALTWATER: After the first 24 hours, rinse 4 times a day every day with warm water and a pinch of salt. This helps heal but also helps remove food that will get stuck behind the swelling once you start eating the solid food. 4: DRINK LOTS OF FLUIDS: It will reduce swelling and help keep you hydrated so you can heal faster. 5: SLEEP: Sleep a lot, because you can. 6: MEDICINE: This helps stop the pain and makes it easier to eat and sleep. When taking the pills, drink lots and lots of fluids to help them go down because they are very big pills. The pills will make you feel very drowsy and loopy and make you wonder if this is real life, but just remem- ber that yes, this is real life. 7: MOVIES: You will be stuck on a couch on your bed for at least 3 days. So rent as many movies as you could. 8: MILK IT FOR ALL ITS WORTH: By the time you get your wisdom teeth you are really too old to be babied, so this is the last hurrah. Enjoy!