by Charles Condro, Jabberwock Staff Reporter
Throughout the city and across the nation, elections for positions of every level from the town hall to the oval office are winding down to the final weeks. One candidate hoping to be elected on November 4, is former MLWGS sophomore-junior guidance counselor Ms. Dawn Page. She is running for the Richmond City School Board from the eighth district.
Ms. Page, who has been working part-time for Hanover Public Schools since leaving MLWGS after last year, decided to run so she could try and improve the public school system.
“As a product of Richmond Public Schools,” said Ms. Page, “I want to improve the quality of education by ensuring accountability, fiscal responsibility… and increase parental and community involvement.”
The eighth district is in Richmond’s Southside, on the border of Chesterfield County. Ms. Page is running against Mr. Charles Willis.
Mr. Willis works as the director of Willis Entertainment, a special event consultant agency. He had worked in Richmond Public Schools for thirty years before leaving in 2003.
“I started in the eighth district thirty years ago as a janitor and I eventually worked up to becoming an administrator,” said Mr. Willis.
Funding for MLWGS is one of the many topics that have come up in this election.
“I will continue to support funding for MLWGS,” said Ms. Page. “MLWGS is a wonderful learning environment for all to explore endless educational opportunities.”
“I fought for its funding and since then [the beginning of the school],” said Mr. Willis. “I’ve always supported the mission of that school.”
While Ms. Page no longer holds a position at MLWGS, she has left an impression on her fellow counselors.
“Ms. Page is a wonderful person who always has the interests of the students at heart,” said Guidance Director Mr. Karl Zweerink. “She would make an excellent addition to the School Board.”
“She has a very warm personality,” said senior guidance counselor Ms. Penny Deck. “She has a very good rapport with youth.”
The election of all of the School Board members has significance to MLWGS because of the funding that the Board sends to MLWGS. Several students, particularly in the eighth district, will have a chance to have their input on the election by voting on Election Day.
“She did a lot of great work at our school,” said Chris Richardson (’09), a resident of the eighth district. “If I had the opportunity [to vote for Ms. Page], then I would.”
Staff writer Danny Yates contributed to this article.
Friday, October 17, 2008
Green Machine on Probation
by Ginny Cross, Jabberwock Staff Reporter
Most people remember the annual field hockey homecoming game as a high-spirited event with loud cheering, human tunnels, and painted stomachs. However, following news of a suspected two-week suspension of the MLWGS Green Machine, the tone of Wednesday's homecoming game was somber and unusually subdued.
"I felt like no one even was watching the game," said Hillary Hurd ('09), a member of the varsity field hockey team.
Although leaders of the Green Machine were notified of a two-week ban just prior to the homecoming game, MLWGS director Mr. Douglas Hunt announced during a meeting held Thursday afternoon that the probation had been shortened from two weeks to three days. However, many students are unhappy that the suspension had to be enacted in the first place.
“There’s a Green Machine ban… [but] there’s also no more fun or dancing,” said Brennan Dolson during the homecoming game. “Actually, I may have just mixed up the ban with the plot of Footloose.”
The probation was a result of a string of complaints from parents, coaches, and referees that the Green Machine was disrespectful to opposing sports teams. Members of the Green Machine argue that any cheers against the other teams were far from malicious, and that the mission of the club has always been to support the MLWGS sports teams.
"The purpose of Green Machine is to cheer our team to victory," said Erik Fox ('10). "We may have a few people who take it too far, but that is not what we are here for." Some members of Green Machine believe the energy put forth by the group to support MLWGS teams may surprise parents and coaches from opposing teams.
“What it comes down to is they aren't used to having fans like that for games other than football and basketball," said Ese Shaw ('10), the founder of the Green Scream and a co-president of the current Green Machine.
The Green Machine was created in the fall of 2006 by Andy Rudd ('07), Keith Moran ('07), and Nathan Lautzenheiser ('07) as a student cheering section exclusively for MLWGS basketball games. The Green Machine itself remained solely for basketball, but last fall a group of sophomores formed a new cheering group, the Green Scream, which was intended to support a wider range of MLWGS sports teams.
"As an athlete, I know what it’s like to have just your parents out there," said Shaw . "When you have a crowd of students, it makes it so much more fun to play and gives you a stronger desire to win. I wanted to spread... the atmosphere of basketball games."
At the end of last year, the Green Scream merged with the Green Machine under the Green Machine name, and the club moved forward under the leadership of the former Green Scream. This fall, the "Green Machine 2.0" has cheered on varsity field hockey and both varsity volleyball teams.
Although the school has received numerous complaints throughout the season, some believe the final straw leading to the probation was a girls' varsity volleyball game against Patrick Henry Tuesday night. At the game, some members of the Green Machine chanted, "you should be on JV" when a player on the other team missed the ball.
According to Ms. Paige Hawkins, MLWGS co-athletic director, the disgruntled Patrick Henry coach notified the Patrick Henry athletic director Tuesday, who then called Ms. Hawkins to complain about the conduct of the MLWGS fans.
"As a whole, nothing out of the ordinary happened at the volleyball game. We were just cheering," said Norris Guncheon, a Green Machine member who attended the game. "I think the parents who complained need to realize it's all for the fun of the sport. We were there to hype up our own team, not attack the other."
Many members of MLWGS sports teams, as well as parents of athletes, have agreed that the turnout of Green Machine pumps up the team. Out of the 11 games that Green Machine has attended this fall, MLWGS has won nine.
"I've enjoyed having the Green Machine at field hockey games, said Ms. Kathy Spraggins, parent of varsity field hockey player Carly Spraggins ('11). "They lend a lot of spirit and excitement to the game, and the players are absolutely more psyched up when they have a large crowd."
"Although students are encouraged to show enthusiasm for MLWGS teams, there is a careful balance that must be struck between showing support for the MLWGS teams and resorting to poor sportsmanship," said Mr. Phil Tharp, Coordinator of Administration.
“If the derogatory comments toward specific players continue after the end suspension, I don’t know if we want the Green Machine to be representing the school in the future,” he said.
Although the official suspension has been considerably shortened, the behavior of the Green Machine will be kept under a close watch.
“I can’t say this clearly enough: do not single out individuals,” said Mr. Hunt. “Other than that, you’re back in business from next Wednesday on.”
Most people remember the annual field hockey homecoming game as a high-spirited event with loud cheering, human tunnels, and painted stomachs. However, following news of a suspected two-week suspension of the MLWGS Green Machine, the tone of Wednesday's homecoming game was somber and unusually subdued.
"I felt like no one even was watching the game," said Hillary Hurd ('09), a member of the varsity field hockey team.
Although leaders of the Green Machine were notified of a two-week ban just prior to the homecoming game, MLWGS director Mr. Douglas Hunt announced during a meeting held Thursday afternoon that the probation had been shortened from two weeks to three days. However, many students are unhappy that the suspension had to be enacted in the first place.
“There’s a Green Machine ban… [but] there’s also no more fun or dancing,” said Brennan Dolson during the homecoming game. “Actually, I may have just mixed up the ban with the plot of Footloose.”
The probation was a result of a string of complaints from parents, coaches, and referees that the Green Machine was disrespectful to opposing sports teams. Members of the Green Machine argue that any cheers against the other teams were far from malicious, and that the mission of the club has always been to support the MLWGS sports teams.
"The purpose of Green Machine is to cheer our team to victory," said Erik Fox ('10). "We may have a few people who take it too far, but that is not what we are here for." Some members of Green Machine believe the energy put forth by the group to support MLWGS teams may surprise parents and coaches from opposing teams.
“What it comes down to is they aren't used to having fans like that for games other than football and basketball," said Ese Shaw ('10), the founder of the Green Scream and a co-president of the current Green Machine.
The Green Machine was created in the fall of 2006 by Andy Rudd ('07), Keith Moran ('07), and Nathan Lautzenheiser ('07) as a student cheering section exclusively for MLWGS basketball games. The Green Machine itself remained solely for basketball, but last fall a group of sophomores formed a new cheering group, the Green Scream, which was intended to support a wider range of MLWGS sports teams.
"As an athlete, I know what it’s like to have just your parents out there," said Shaw . "When you have a crowd of students, it makes it so much more fun to play and gives you a stronger desire to win. I wanted to spread... the atmosphere of basketball games."
At the end of last year, the Green Scream merged with the Green Machine under the Green Machine name, and the club moved forward under the leadership of the former Green Scream. This fall, the "Green Machine 2.0" has cheered on varsity field hockey and both varsity volleyball teams.
Although the school has received numerous complaints throughout the season, some believe the final straw leading to the probation was a girls' varsity volleyball game against Patrick Henry Tuesday night. At the game, some members of the Green Machine chanted, "you should be on JV" when a player on the other team missed the ball.
According to Ms. Paige Hawkins, MLWGS co-athletic director, the disgruntled Patrick Henry coach notified the Patrick Henry athletic director Tuesday, who then called Ms. Hawkins to complain about the conduct of the MLWGS fans.
"As a whole, nothing out of the ordinary happened at the volleyball game. We were just cheering," said Norris Guncheon, a Green Machine member who attended the game. "I think the parents who complained need to realize it's all for the fun of the sport. We were there to hype up our own team, not attack the other."
Many members of MLWGS sports teams, as well as parents of athletes, have agreed that the turnout of Green Machine pumps up the team. Out of the 11 games that Green Machine has attended this fall, MLWGS has won nine.
"I've enjoyed having the Green Machine at field hockey games, said Ms. Kathy Spraggins, parent of varsity field hockey player Carly Spraggins ('11). "They lend a lot of spirit and excitement to the game, and the players are absolutely more psyched up when they have a large crowd."
"Although students are encouraged to show enthusiasm for MLWGS teams, there is a careful balance that must be struck between showing support for the MLWGS teams and resorting to poor sportsmanship," said Mr. Phil Tharp, Coordinator of Administration.
“If the derogatory comments toward specific players continue after the end suspension, I don’t know if we want the Green Machine to be representing the school in the future,” he said.
Although the official suspension has been considerably shortened, the behavior of the Green Machine will be kept under a close watch.
“I can’t say this clearly enough: do not single out individuals,” said Mr. Hunt. “Other than that, you’re back in business from next Wednesday on.”
Local Leaders
It has been almost two years since Senators Obama and McCain launched their campaigns for the White House. For more than 21 months we’ve been bombarded with the media fanfare and national spotlight on a seemingly endless, knock-down, drag-out presidential campaign.
There is so much money, energy, time, and hype devoted to familiarizing us with McCain and Obama, but I bet only one out of ten voters knows the name of the candidates for mayor, city council, county superintendent, or school board in their district.
Stop and think about this for a minute.
Who is responsible for running your neighborhood’s schools?
Who determines your property tax?
Who manages your municipality’s police, fire, and emergency response services?
Who allocates the money to repair your roads?
Who supervises your trash removal, recycling, and sewage?
The answer to all these questions and many more is found in the daily agenda of your local government’s leaders!
Local elections have the greatest bearing and impact on our daily lives of any other election. Therefore, we must invest research, time, and commitment to making the right choices.
Your school board member’s position on how to fix local schools is ten times more important than Obama or McCain’s viewpoint on secondary education
Your mayor’s choice of police chief is twenty times more important than McCain or Obama’s choice of Secretary of Homeland Security.
Recently, five MLWGS seniors had the opportunity to meet all five Richmond mayoral candidates at a community forum. The candidates spoke for ninety minutes about the best ways to fix the city’s biggest problems.
Everything from the benefits of city charter schools to the future of the James River was discussed during the mayoral debate. And, this forum was only one of the almost twenty debates in which all five candidates are attempting to gain the confidence of city voters before Election Day.
At another mayoral forum, four candidates spoke about, or were asked by the Jabberwock to speak about, their opinion of MLWGS and the “diversity issue.” Issues that directly affect you, me, and the Richmond community are being proposed, discussed, and argued at events like these.
On Monday, October 20 at 7 pm, candidates seeking local office to represent MLWGS’ Newtowne Neighborhood will visit room 153, meet community members, and discuss the issues that matter. Interested students should attend and show our neighbors that we care about MLWGS and the people who live nearby.
Similar candidate forums are held in every locality across the region for every locally elected office – county supervisor, city councilperson, school board representative, and even sheriff!
So don’t be lazy! Get out and meet the people who are seeking your vote for local office. Check out their websites or read about their positions in the newspaper.
Attend a debate, or just open the door and listen with an open-mind if a candidate comes to your house while canvassing. Volunteer if you find a candidate whose positions resonate with you and your beliefs!
If you are old enough on November 4, be proud when you go to the polls. When you look at the ballot, don’t let yourself be one of those uniformed voters who cannot recognize your local candidates’ names.
Choose the members of your local government wisely, because when it comes down to the issues that matter, these people are the ones that make choices which affect you each day.
There is so much money, energy, time, and hype devoted to familiarizing us with McCain and Obama, but I bet only one out of ten voters knows the name of the candidates for mayor, city council, county superintendent, or school board in their district.
Stop and think about this for a minute.
Who is responsible for running your neighborhood’s schools?
Who determines your property tax?
Who manages your municipality’s police, fire, and emergency response services?
Who allocates the money to repair your roads?
Who supervises your trash removal, recycling, and sewage?
The answer to all these questions and many more is found in the daily agenda of your local government’s leaders!
Local elections have the greatest bearing and impact on our daily lives of any other election. Therefore, we must invest research, time, and commitment to making the right choices.
Your school board member’s position on how to fix local schools is ten times more important than Obama or McCain’s viewpoint on secondary education
Your mayor’s choice of police chief is twenty times more important than McCain or Obama’s choice of Secretary of Homeland Security.
Recently, five MLWGS seniors had the opportunity to meet all five Richmond mayoral candidates at a community forum. The candidates spoke for ninety minutes about the best ways to fix the city’s biggest problems.
Everything from the benefits of city charter schools to the future of the James River was discussed during the mayoral debate. And, this forum was only one of the almost twenty debates in which all five candidates are attempting to gain the confidence of city voters before Election Day.
At another mayoral forum, four candidates spoke about, or were asked by the Jabberwock to speak about, their opinion of MLWGS and the “diversity issue.” Issues that directly affect you, me, and the Richmond community are being proposed, discussed, and argued at events like these.
On Monday, October 20 at 7 pm, candidates seeking local office to represent MLWGS’ Newtowne Neighborhood will visit room 153, meet community members, and discuss the issues that matter. Interested students should attend and show our neighbors that we care about MLWGS and the people who live nearby.
Similar candidate forums are held in every locality across the region for every locally elected office – county supervisor, city councilperson, school board representative, and even sheriff!
So don’t be lazy! Get out and meet the people who are seeking your vote for local office. Check out their websites or read about their positions in the newspaper.
Attend a debate, or just open the door and listen with an open-mind if a candidate comes to your house while canvassing. Volunteer if you find a candidate whose positions resonate with you and your beliefs!
If you are old enough on November 4, be proud when you go to the polls. When you look at the ballot, don’t let yourself be one of those uniformed voters who cannot recognize your local candidates’ names.
Choose the members of your local government wisely, because when it comes down to the issues that matter, these people are the ones that make choices which affect you each day.
Mayoral Candidates Speak About MLWGS
Four of Richmond's 2008 Mayoral Candidates* Spoke with Danny Yates During a Greater Richmond Chamber of Commerce Forum on October 7.
The Candidates Spoke On the Question of Diversity and the MLWGS Admissions/Hiring Process.
Question: Currently the number of African American Governor’s School students from Richmond is disproportional to the percentage of African American students in RPS.
This past June, the Maggie Walker Regional School Board voted to spend $70,000 to hire a consulting firm to assess the level of diversity in the school and to propose methods for increasing minority representation.
The question is this - would you support a race-based affirmative action program in the school’s admissions and hiring procedures to increase minority students and faculty?
Their responses are listed below (in the order which they spoke)
Councilman William Pantele, Local Attorney and Richmond City Council President:
“...in that case there would certainly be something that would merit review and study, of course, I think it also illustrates one of the issues with charter schools...one of the risks is, charter schools tend to gravitate towards cherry-picking students … The Governor’s School is a great facility it has to be accessible to all of our students who qualify where there is a slot available. I’m glad the school is looking into the diversity. issue and I will be interested, in fact, I will insist on a copy of the results. “
Lawrence Williams, Local Architect and Richmond Public Schools Parent:
“I don’t think you need to waste money on a consultant. Many of these things, people of good
common sense work out over time … Robert and I are from John Marshall when it was being integrated and because of that we had some major opportunities. I was able to go to the University of Virginia and Harvard University from there….Very frankly, once you have those opportunities, you have a different perspective and you care about where you came from. Pantele will not go to Fairfield court and fight to the death to make sure that that community changes. I will, and that is just a fact of life.”
Robert Grey, Local Attorney and Former President of the American Bar Association:
“I don’t think you have to hire anybody for $70,000 to figure this out. This is a community that has always had difficulty with race, and we have got to start getting a handle on this by making sure that we provide equal opportunity to all students to attend whatever school we have, and I mean that throughout the city. ...There is no perfect system to do any of this. It requires people of good will, good conscience, and it requires people of commitment to a city that will grow through the strong diversity of its neighborhoods…”
Delegate Dwight Jones, Local Pastor and Member of the Virginia House of Representatives:
“I didn’t know that there was a 70,000 dollar contract out there to just bring diversity to the Maggie Walker high school. If I had known, I would have put a bid in. That’s an easy job. And I probably would have done it for 35 (thousand). The question is easily answered. We have got to have the leadership that requires that there is diversity in all places, and that requires intentionality, somebody who is going to push the envelope and have these conversations that are somewhat difficult to have.”
The Candidates Spoke On the Question of Diversity and the MLWGS Admissions/Hiring Process.
Question: Currently the number of African American Governor’s School students from Richmond is disproportional to the percentage of African American students in RPS.
This past June, the Maggie Walker Regional School Board voted to spend $70,000 to hire a consulting firm to assess the level of diversity in the school and to propose methods for increasing minority representation.
The question is this - would you support a race-based affirmative action program in the school’s admissions and hiring procedures to increase minority students and faculty?
Their responses are listed below (in the order which they spoke)
Councilman William Pantele, Local Attorney and Richmond City Council President:
“...in that case there would certainly be something that would merit review and study, of course, I think it also illustrates one of the issues with charter schools...one of the risks is, charter schools tend to gravitate towards cherry-picking students … The Governor’s School is a great facility it has to be accessible to all of our students who qualify where there is a slot available. I’m glad the school is looking into the diversity. issue and I will be interested, in fact, I will insist on a copy of the results. “
Lawrence Williams, Local Architect and Richmond Public Schools Parent:
“I don’t think you need to waste money on a consultant. Many of these things, people of good
common sense work out over time … Robert and I are from John Marshall when it was being integrated and because of that we had some major opportunities. I was able to go to the University of Virginia and Harvard University from there….Very frankly, once you have those opportunities, you have a different perspective and you care about where you came from. Pantele will not go to Fairfield court and fight to the death to make sure that that community changes. I will, and that is just a fact of life.”Robert Grey, Local Attorney and Former President of the American Bar Association:
“I don’t think you have to hire anybody for $70,000 to figure this out. This is a community that has always had difficulty with race, and we have got to start getting a handle on this by making sure that we provide equal opportunity to all students to attend whatever school we have, and I mean that throughout the city. ...There is no perfect system to do any of this. It requires people of good will, good conscience, and it requires people of commitment to a city that will grow through the strong diversity of its neighborhoods…”
Delegate Dwight Jones, Local Pastor and Member of the Virginia House of Representatives:
“I didn’t know that there was a 70,000 dollar contract out there to just bring diversity to the Maggie Walker high school. If I had known, I would have put a bid in. That’s an easy job. And I probably would have done it for 35 (thousand). The question is easily answered. We have got to have the leadership that requires that there is diversity in all places, and that requires intentionality, somebody who is going to push the envelope and have these conversations that are somewhat difficult to have.”
Four Richmond mayoral candidates spoke at a recent forum. From left they are Bill Pantele, Robert Grey, Lawrence Williams, and Dwight Jones. Photo by Danny Yates
*Candidate Paul Goldman did not attend the forum due to a religious commitment. On repeated attempts for contact, Goldman was unavailable for comment.
*Candidate Paul Goldman did not attend the forum due to a religious commitment. On repeated attempts for contact, Goldman was unavailable for comment.
Pep Rallies Serve Purpose
by Logan Ferrell
As the week draws to a close, and the events of Wednesday become purely memory, the school finds itself again in an unsettled post pep-rally frame of mind. This year, as almost every year before, when the cheering fades, the grumblings of a dissatisfied few begin to grow louder and more unanimous. So, what is there to say to this group, who feels that pep rallies in their current state, may be either unnecessary or detrimental to the school and student body? That response must surely be the decision of each individual. As for myself, the idealistic goal of pep rallies, to bond the school in a common and competitive spirit, remains a symbol of tradition for the school itself.
The pep rally, as it is today, remains one of the few outlets for raw emotion in our hectic, academic environment; it harnesses that emotion as support for a common interest. What may seem like just an hour of cheering and chanting, in reality is the fulfillment of the students’ role in the sports arena. Even if one doesn’t play for the team, for this one moment, he is a part of their success, cheering them to an eventual victory.
This opportunity, to provide support and acknowledge the achievements of our athletes, forms the inherent link between player and athlete. It unites the two under a common banner; not some athletes and some not, but rather all proud Green Dragons.
That said, there remains some who would argue; that the pep rally event is not a unifying event at all, but rather a widening of the rift between classes. Sadly, there will always be a select few who indeed take their grade spirit too far, and use it in inappropriate ways; but the tradition cannot be spoiled by a destructive handful. Indeed, the competition between classes is always aimed at producing more positive spirit that hurt feelings.
While the freshmen and sophomores may squabble over the assigned colors of their shirt, at the end of the day, they are cheering for the same team, regardless of who cheers louder.
These healthy rivalries, when exposed, act not only as an outlet for spirit but also as an equalizing factor. Where else in day-to-day school life, does a freshmen have the power to challenge the superiority of a senior? So, to answer those already disgruntled, the class competition of pep rallies, is simply another way to unify the student body in a common spirit and goal.
In the days after a rally, the spirit begins to wear off somewhat, it is true. Some may return to a disinterested ignorance of sports, and many will return to bickering for personal interests.
However, we must not forget, that for one hour, on one day; those personal qualms were shed for the spirit, which unifies us as students. That is what a pep rally is truly about.
As the week draws to a close, and the events of Wednesday become purely memory, the school finds itself again in an unsettled post pep-rally frame of mind. This year, as almost every year before, when the cheering fades, the grumblings of a dissatisfied few begin to grow louder and more unanimous. So, what is there to say to this group, who feels that pep rallies in their current state, may be either unnecessary or detrimental to the school and student body? That response must surely be the decision of each individual. As for myself, the idealistic goal of pep rallies, to bond the school in a common and competitive spirit, remains a symbol of tradition for the school itself.
The pep rally, as it is today, remains one of the few outlets for raw emotion in our hectic, academic environment; it harnesses that emotion as support for a common interest. What may seem like just an hour of cheering and chanting, in reality is the fulfillment of the students’ role in the sports arena. Even if one doesn’t play for the team, for this one moment, he is a part of their success, cheering them to an eventual victory.
This opportunity, to provide support and acknowledge the achievements of our athletes, forms the inherent link between player and athlete. It unites the two under a common banner; not some athletes and some not, but rather all proud Green Dragons.
That said, there remains some who would argue; that the pep rally event is not a unifying event at all, but rather a widening of the rift between classes. Sadly, there will always be a select few who indeed take their grade spirit too far, and use it in inappropriate ways; but the tradition cannot be spoiled by a destructive handful. Indeed, the competition between classes is always aimed at producing more positive spirit that hurt feelings.
While the freshmen and sophomores may squabble over the assigned colors of their shirt, at the end of the day, they are cheering for the same team, regardless of who cheers louder.
These healthy rivalries, when exposed, act not only as an outlet for spirit but also as an equalizing factor. Where else in day-to-day school life, does a freshmen have the power to challenge the superiority of a senior? So, to answer those already disgruntled, the class competition of pep rallies, is simply another way to unify the student body in a common spirit and goal.
In the days after a rally, the spirit begins to wear off somewhat, it is true. Some may return to a disinterested ignorance of sports, and many will return to bickering for personal interests.
However, we must not forget, that for one hour, on one day; those personal qualms were shed for the spirit, which unifies us as students. That is what a pep rally is truly about.
Pep Rallies Are Pointless
By Mitch Caudill
I don’t expect to be very popular for this opinion, but I’ll write it in hopes that somewhere out there in the school there are fellow non-supporters like me. Mainly, I find the idea of pep-rallies to be absurd. Acting crazy, shouting and screaming over something as uncontrollable and as unimportant as grade level strikes me as particularly illogical.
In fact, I did homework during parts of it. Furthermore, many of problems the administration cited with the pep rally come from the very fact we are divided into classes.
When you are asked to call up energy and support for something which has no controllable basis, to claim something is good, one instead must point out that something else is bad. I hardly doubt the administration would allow distinctions on controllable and truly important things. “Let’s go A students!”
Furthermore, if students could gather up even half the energy they put into preparing and acting at the pep rally, there is no doubt in my mind we could double our GPA and club activities.
I realize and agree that it’s nice to get a break from class every once in awhile, but why can’t we instead find spirit in things which do not divide us, and are productive. If not, I suggest at the next pep rally, we organize ourselves by height.
I don’t expect to be very popular for this opinion, but I’ll write it in hopes that somewhere out there in the school there are fellow non-supporters like me. Mainly, I find the idea of pep-rallies to be absurd. Acting crazy, shouting and screaming over something as uncontrollable and as unimportant as grade level strikes me as particularly illogical.
In fact, I did homework during parts of it. Furthermore, many of problems the administration cited with the pep rally come from the very fact we are divided into classes.
When you are asked to call up energy and support for something which has no controllable basis, to claim something is good, one instead must point out that something else is bad. I hardly doubt the administration would allow distinctions on controllable and truly important things. “Let’s go A students!”
Furthermore, if students could gather up even half the energy they put into preparing and acting at the pep rally, there is no doubt in my mind we could double our GPA and club activities.
I realize and agree that it’s nice to get a break from class every once in awhile, but why can’t we instead find spirit in things which do not divide us, and are productive. If not, I suggest at the next pep rally, we organize ourselves by height.
A Conversation with MLWGS' Own Mr. Irvin Charles
Maggie Walker Alumnus and MLWGS Head of Security shares his thoughts
Have you found new “marquee attendants?”
We’re still looking for replacement sign changers. Ms. Noe-Payne and Ms. Diakum are still searching. Let me say this, if anyone is interested, they should contact either of those two, or me.
Tell me about your middle school visits…
I did two middle school visits yesterday. We went to Martin Luther King and Boushall. They both went great! Ms. Davis, and two students, Ms. Carter and Ms. Lewis were just great. They gave them [the middle schoolers] the real deal. They poured their hearts out, talking about how in middle school things came so easily, but now how at Maggie Walker you have to work much harder.
What sort of questions did you get?
At every school the students, sixth through eighth grade, were very attentive. We got a couple of questions about sports, band, and there were a lot of questions about foreign languages. One thing I have to say, we are very fortunate to have Mr. Zweerink. He is knowledgeable, patient, and encouraging.
Do you have any overall observations from the visits?
One thing I realize is the school districts need to do a better job of preparing their middle school students to come here, and we need to work harder to tell middle school students about MLWGS. Another reason why I really enjoy doing these visits: At all the city schools, I can share with the kids how I grew up in that area, and how going to a school like this will be a huge benefit in life.
Any major security issues so far this year?
None yet. Well there is one thing. Parents that drop off their kids in the morning need to be mindful from 8:15-8:45 when they are not allowed to drive through the bus lot. Also, when students walk off campus in the afternoon, they need to go together in groups and be observant and aware of their surroundings.
Homecoming Advice?
This is supposed to be a time to promote school spirit, so let’s not have any issues.
Have you found new “marquee attendants?”
We’re still looking for replacement sign changers. Ms. Noe-Payne and Ms. Diakum are still searching. Let me say this, if anyone is interested, they should contact either of those two, or me.
Tell me about your middle school visits…
I did two middle school visits yesterday. We went to Martin Luther King and Boushall. They both went great! Ms. Davis, and two students, Ms. Carter and Ms. Lewis were just great. They gave them [the middle schoolers] the real deal. They poured their hearts out, talking about how in middle school things came so easily, but now how at Maggie Walker you have to work much harder.
What sort of questions did you get?
At every school the students, sixth through eighth grade, were very attentive. We got a couple of questions about sports, band, and there were a lot of questions about foreign languages. One thing I have to say, we are very fortunate to have Mr. Zweerink. He is knowledgeable, patient, and encouraging.
Do you have any overall observations from the visits?
One thing I realize is the school districts need to do a better job of preparing their middle school students to come here, and we need to work harder to tell middle school students about MLWGS. Another reason why I really enjoy doing these visits: At all the city schools, I can share with the kids how I grew up in that area, and how going to a school like this will be a huge benefit in life.
Any major security issues so far this year?
None yet. Well there is one thing. Parents that drop off their kids in the morning need to be mindful from 8:15-8:45 when they are not allowed to drive through the bus lot. Also, when students walk off campus in the afternoon, they need to go together in groups and be observant and aware of their surroundings.
Homecoming Advice?
This is supposed to be a time to promote school spirit, so let’s not have any issues.
*Q&A by Danny Yates on October 14, 2008.
Greek week At Rock Barbershop
by Danny Yates, Jabberwock Staff Reporter
Have you noticed a few more cars parked near the intersection of Leigh and Mozelle Streets recently?
Have you seen a few more customers at the MLWGS corner barbershop lately? Have you ever asked yourself – “what’s going on over there?”
The new Rock Barbershop, located just across the street from MLWGS, opened its doors to the Richmond community this month. Beginning last week and continuing through Halloween, Rock Barbershop is hosting Virginia Union University’s Greek Week.
VUU senior Michael Moore, also known as “Mr. Virginia Union University,” is the president of his college’s Apha Fraternity.
VUU’s Gamma chapter of the Alpha Fraternity dates back to 1907, and Moore spoke with pride of his fraternity’s history and its continued community relationships.
“Rock [Eddie Espada] and Guap-O [Angel Maldonado], the owners are very good guys. They’re always reaching out to others” said Moore.
Last week, members of VUU’s Alpha fraternity stopped by Rock Barbershop and made themselves at home.
“Some of our guys [fraternity members] always got their hair cut here. When Rock moved in, they tried to open it up as a community center,” said Moore. “They invited us to be the first to hang out here.”
On Wednesday, October 8, the Alpha’s held an evening barbershop discussion at the Rock. The next day, the students reconvened for a Madden [football video game] tournament and on Friday, October 10, the Alphas sponsored a neighborhood charity cookout.
After Greek Week concludes, owners at Rock Barbershop already have plans for new community events.
“We’re thinking of ways to get Walker [MLWGS] students and people who live around here to feel comfortable coming in,” said Guap-O. “If anyone has an idea, just drop by and share it.”
Have you noticed a few more cars parked near the intersection of Leigh and Mozelle Streets recently?
Have you seen a few more customers at the MLWGS corner barbershop lately? Have you ever asked yourself – “what’s going on over there?”
The new Rock Barbershop, located just across the street from MLWGS, opened its doors to the Richmond community this month. Beginning last week and continuing through Halloween, Rock Barbershop is hosting Virginia Union University’s Greek Week.
VUU senior Michael Moore, also known as “Mr. Virginia Union University,” is the president of his college’s Apha Fraternity.
VUU’s Gamma chapter of the Alpha Fraternity dates back to 1907, and Moore spoke with pride of his fraternity’s history and its continued community relationships.
“Rock [Eddie Espada] and Guap-O [Angel Maldonado], the owners are very good guys. They’re always reaching out to others” said Moore.
Last week, members of VUU’s Alpha fraternity stopped by Rock Barbershop and made themselves at home.
“Some of our guys [fraternity members] always got their hair cut here. When Rock moved in, they tried to open it up as a community center,” said Moore. “They invited us to be the first to hang out here.”
On Wednesday, October 8, the Alpha’s held an evening barbershop discussion at the Rock. The next day, the students reconvened for a Madden [football video game] tournament and on Friday, October 10, the Alphas sponsored a neighborhood charity cookout.
After Greek Week concludes, owners at Rock Barbershop already have plans for new community events.
“We’re thinking of ways to get Walker [MLWGS] students and people who live around here to feel comfortable coming in,” said Guap-O. “If anyone has an idea, just drop by and share it.”
Political Debates at MLWGS
by Sean Youngstone, Jabberwock Staff Reporter
The first of three planned student political debates took place in the MLWGS auditorium during lunch this past Thursday. The other two are planned for October 23, and October 30.
Each debate features four student representatives from the Young Democrats and Young Republicans.
"We'll be having people from a variety of different classes and backgrounds," said Kaitlan Lawrence ('09), president of the Young Libertarians club, which has taken on sponsorship of the event. The club's leaders hope that the debates will help foster greater student involvement in politics and the democratic process.
Thursday's debate featured oil and energy as the main topic of discussion, and the following two are planned to focus on, respectively, education and health care and foreign policy. The debate was attended by around forty students.
Both sides of the debate made it very clear where their stances were on energy.
"We have to cut carbon emissions by 80% by 2050," said Young Democrat member Peter Slag (’09).
Meanwhile, the Republicans argued in the defense of clean coal technology, nuclear power, and offshore drilling.
"We have to use the resources we already have,” said Lawrence, filling in for an absent Republican debater.
Before the debate, Lawrence expressed her enthusiasm about the debate.
"We're hoping that everyone will come out for it," said Lawrence. "We're really looking forward to a good time."
Staff Writer Charles Condro contributed to this article
The first of three planned student political debates took place in the MLWGS auditorium during lunch this past Thursday. The other two are planned for October 23, and October 30.
Each debate features four student representatives from the Young Democrats and Young Republicans.
"We'll be having people from a variety of different classes and backgrounds," said Kaitlan Lawrence ('09), president of the Young Libertarians club, which has taken on sponsorship of the event. The club's leaders hope that the debates will help foster greater student involvement in politics and the democratic process.
Thursday's debate featured oil and energy as the main topic of discussion, and the following two are planned to focus on, respectively, education and health care and foreign policy. The debate was attended by around forty students.
Both sides of the debate made it very clear where their stances were on energy.
"We have to cut carbon emissions by 80% by 2050," said Young Democrat member Peter Slag (’09).
Meanwhile, the Republicans argued in the defense of clean coal technology, nuclear power, and offshore drilling.
"We have to use the resources we already have,” said Lawrence, filling in for an absent Republican debater.
Before the debate, Lawrence expressed her enthusiasm about the debate.
"We're hoping that everyone will come out for it," said Lawrence. "We're really looking forward to a good time."
Staff Writer Charles Condro contributed to this article
Introducing the Superglue Ghandis
by Elaine Hillgrove, Jabberwock Staff Reporter
Sometimes, people aren’t what they seem. The girl sitting next to you could be a champion badminton player. The boy in the front of the room could be a professional harpist. In the case of Maggie Walker’s own Gene Roland, the facilities manager walking down the hallway across from you is also a guitar player in a band that has recently released an EP.
When I first got the CD from Mr. Roland’s band, The Superglue Gandhis, I was a little apprehensive. I never really associated Gandhi with rock music. Or, for that matter, with Superglue. I was pleasantly surprised, then, when the music turned out to be good.
I’m no music expert, so I can’t determine exactly what type of rock they play or who their major influences would be. What I do know is that they can keep a beat, write lyrics, and keep up a decent melody. On their website, the Superglue Gandhis describe themselves as “a simple band - to the point and uncluttered with processing. No additives and no preservatives.”
Currently, the band has one EP, titled Blast Furnace 14. According to the band’s website, this title is “in honor of our cherished - and hopefully soon to be distant – practice space.”
Blast Furnace 14 has only four songs on it – Snow on the Radio , These Scars, Song Like Diane, and (my personal favorite) Exraordinary.
The band played most recently at Colonial Downs and Alley Katz.
You can learn more about the Superglue Gandhis at www.supergluegandhis.com
Mr. Roland. Photo courtesy of www.superglueghandis.com/.
Sometimes, people aren’t what they seem. The girl sitting next to you could be a champion badminton player. The boy in the front of the room could be a professional harpist. In the case of Maggie Walker’s own Gene Roland, the facilities manager walking down the hallway across from you is also a guitar player in a band that has recently released an EP.
When I first got the CD from Mr. Roland’s band, The Superglue Gandhis, I was a little apprehensive. I never really associated Gandhi with rock music. Or, for that matter, with Superglue. I was pleasantly surprised, then, when the music turned out to be good.
I’m no music expert, so I can’t determine exactly what type of rock they play or who their major influences would be. What I do know is that they can keep a beat, write lyrics, and keep up a decent melody. On their website, the Superglue Gandhis describe themselves as “a simple band - to the point and uncluttered with processing. No additives and no preservatives.”
Currently, the band has one EP, titled Blast Furnace 14. According to the band’s website, this title is “in honor of our cherished - and hopefully soon to be distant – practice space.”
Blast Furnace 14 has only four songs on it – Snow on the Radio , These Scars, Song Like Diane, and (my personal favorite) Exraordinary.
The band played most recently at Colonial Downs and Alley Katz.
You can learn more about the Superglue Gandhis at www.supergluegandhis.com
Mr. Roland. Photo courtesy of www.superglueghandis.com/.
Blood Drive
This year's blood drive at MLWGS was the most successful ever, with 91 students who signed up to donate blood. Over 68 units of blood were collected, and the school was able to assist Virginia Blood Services in saving over 100 lives.
"We had our best turnout ever for a blood drive," said Mr. Don Blanton, Blood Drive organizer and Key Club Sponsor. "The new law [which allows for 16 and 17 year-olds to donate] that was passed was a big factor... more donors were able to sign up than in previous years."
The field hockey team challenged all school clubs and sports teams to have the most participants in the blood drive. Field hockey won the ice cream party prize, with 12 donors participating. Volleyball came in a close second.
"We had our best turnout ever for a blood drive," said Mr. Don Blanton, Blood Drive organizer and Key Club Sponsor. "The new law [which allows for 16 and 17 year-olds to donate] that was passed was a big factor... more donors were able to sign up than in previous years."
The field hockey team challenged all school clubs and sports teams to have the most participants in the blood drive. Field hockey won the ice cream party prize, with 12 donors participating. Volleyball came in a close second.
ASL No Longer A Dual Enrollment
The American Sign Language (ASL) class at MLWGS no longer has Dual Enrollment status with J. Sargeant Reynolds Community College (JSRCC). In order to keep the class a dual-credit course MLWGS would have needed to pay around $20,000 to JSRCC.
According to the MLWGS Director, Mr. Douglas Hunt, there just isn't room in the budget right now to be able to pay for the Dual Enrollment credits. "They're reorganizing the whole community college system, [such as] the financial and teaching requirements," said Hunt.
The end of the program was unexpected and, for many current ASL students, highly disappointing.
According to the MLWGS Director, Mr. Douglas Hunt, there just isn't room in the budget right now to be able to pay for the Dual Enrollment credits. "They're reorganizing the whole community college system, [such as] the financial and teaching requirements," said Hunt.
The end of the program was unexpected and, for many current ASL students, highly disappointing.
World Hunger Day
The halls of MLWGS were alight with orange ribbons on Thursday as the Global Citizens Corps, a recently founded club at the school, led in various activities to celebrate World Food Day.
“We’re raising awareness and taking action so that we can make an impact,” said Sam Halle, one of the co-presidents of the Global Citizen Corps.
Students could donate towards several charitable organizations and in exchange receive orange ribbons as a sign of gratitude. Other activities included wearing duct-tape Xs over shirts to represent the hundred children who die every ten minutes due to hunger. and providing canned food for the food bank.
“We’re raising awareness and taking action so that we can make an impact,” said Sam Halle, one of the co-presidents of the Global Citizen Corps.
Students could donate towards several charitable organizations and in exchange receive orange ribbons as a sign of gratitude. Other activities included wearing duct-tape Xs over shirts to represent the hundred children who die every ten minutes due to hunger. and providing canned food for the food bank.
New Digital Lab On The Way
MLWGS is currently in the process of installing a brand new Digital Media Lab intended for a wide variety of student uses. The lab will contain 7 iMac and 3 Mac Pro Computers complete with state-of-the-art music composition and graphic design software.
"The lab is intended for, its goal is, to be used in all of the curriculum," said Mr. Jeff Hall, MLWGS Art Department Chair. It is Mr. Hall's hope that the lab will be of use to all students, not simply those taking Art or Art-related classes.
One of the new computers is already in place and the other 9 are on the way. The lab is expected to be completed around mid-November and will be located in Room 109. It will eventually contain a wide variety of multimedia equipment and will become publicly available to MLWGS students to use as they please.
"The lab is intended for, its goal is, to be used in all of the curriculum," said Mr. Jeff Hall, MLWGS Art Department Chair. It is Mr. Hall's hope that the lab will be of use to all students, not simply those taking Art or Art-related classes.
One of the new computers is already in place and the other 9 are on the way. The lab is expected to be completed around mid-November and will be located in Room 109. It will eventually contain a wide variety of multimedia equipment and will become publicly available to MLWGS students to use as they please.
Young Republicans Support Palin
MLWGS' Young Republicans are supporting their candidate via a variety of means this election season, including groups who “occasionally go to the phones to help out,” according to club sponsor Mr. Matt McGuire. Other endeavors include “stuffing…envelopes, putting up yard signs, [and] handing out literature.”
When asked to describe the group’s efforts on behalf of the McCain campaign, Mr. McGuire called them “traditional campaign activities” overall and added that they are “fun” but “productive.”
Despite these various projects, when asked about the McCain campaigns prospects Spencer Pigg ('11), a member of the Young Republican team that participated in a lunchtime debate with the Young Democrats, said, "I think it's pretty hopeless."
Sarah Palin speaks in Richmond on Monday. Photo by Danny Yates
When asked to describe the group’s efforts on behalf of the McCain campaign, Mr. McGuire called them “traditional campaign activities” overall and added that they are “fun” but “productive.”
Despite these various projects, when asked about the McCain campaigns prospects Spencer Pigg ('11), a member of the Young Republican team that participated in a lunchtime debate with the Young Democrats, said, "I think it's pretty hopeless."
Sarah Palin speaks in Richmond on Monday. Photo by Danny YatesLove Gone Bad
By Gabrielle Cifu, Jabberwock Staff Reporter
There is nothing less inspiring than a love story performed badly. Nights in Rodanthe delivers one of the worst performances of recent memory.
Adrienne Willis (Diane Lane) is a mother of two, recently separated from her husband. One weekend, while her children are visiting their father, she offers to oversee a friend’s inn in scenic Rodanthe, N.C. There, she meets Dr. Paul Flanner (Richard Gere), a physician, who is in town to resolve unfinished business.
At first, Dr. Flanner seems distant. As the weekend evolves, he and Adrienne begin to connect as they share their similar pasts, involving marital strife and their children. Flanner discloses his strained relations with his son, and the accident that brought about the end of his medical career.
Predictably, Paul and Adrienne fall quickly in love, despite barely knowing each other. As they become closer Adrienne encourages Paul to amend the strained relations between himself and his son, resulting in Paul’s decision to visit his son who is working as a doctor in South America. In other movies, spontaneous romances are plausible, but especially with Paul’s sheltered disposition, the romance between these two does not come across as realistic.
This was one of those movies you wanted to like. The previews foretold heartwarming romance, and the actors were promising. However, the movie was impossible to connect with. The scenes were choppy, and the story had no build-up.
One minute they barely know each other, the next they are madly in love. Not to mention, their entire love affair supposedly occurred within a four day period.
It’s hard to believe Nights in Rodanthe was written by Nicholas Sparks, the same man who wrote The Notebook, which was both a great movie and book. Viewers expected another great love story, or at least a heartfelt movie. They were sorely disappointed.
The actors picked for the roles seemed well chosen. Both Lane and Gere have been in substantial, successful films in the past. In Nights in Rodanthe, neither of them was necessarily bad playing their role, but since neither part was well written or developed, it made no difference.
One of the best characters was Jean (Viola Davis), Adrienne’s inn-owning friend. Though only briefly in the film, her character was personable and added humor, as well as a more down-to-earth perspective on life.
Also disappointing, was the lack of good scene conclusions. One scene abruptly ended when Adrienne unexpectedly stated, “I have to go to bed.” Scene endings such as this made the movie awkward and lessened the build-up to their romance.
Furthermore, certain scenes lacked the drama they could have added to the film. For instance, a violent hurricane was supposedly heading towards Rodanthe. Yet, with all the build-up, the hurricane lasted no more than two minutes and only culminated in a brief semi-romantic moment between the leads.
If you’ve seen the previews, you need not look any further. The previews capture the extent of the romance in the film. When the credits rolled, I was left completely unexcited. A movie with such a terrible plot simply cannot force the viewer to care.
This love story had the potential to be the best of the year, but it failed to reach my expectations. Many viewers assumed Nights in Rodanthe would be up to par with such films as The Notebook. I guarantee those same viewers are now banging their heads on the wall, asking themselves how hard it is to create a respectable love story.
I now realize that I misinterpreted the movie’s tagline, “it’s never too late for a second chance.” More appropriately, it should read, “it’s never too late for a second chance…to leave the theater.”
Diane Lane and Richard Gere. Photo courtesy of http://blogs.nypost.com/movies
There is nothing less inspiring than a love story performed badly. Nights in Rodanthe delivers one of the worst performances of recent memory.
Adrienne Willis (Diane Lane) is a mother of two, recently separated from her husband. One weekend, while her children are visiting their father, she offers to oversee a friend’s inn in scenic Rodanthe, N.C. There, she meets Dr. Paul Flanner (Richard Gere), a physician, who is in town to resolve unfinished business.
At first, Dr. Flanner seems distant. As the weekend evolves, he and Adrienne begin to connect as they share their similar pasts, involving marital strife and their children. Flanner discloses his strained relations with his son, and the accident that brought about the end of his medical career.
Predictably, Paul and Adrienne fall quickly in love, despite barely knowing each other. As they become closer Adrienne encourages Paul to amend the strained relations between himself and his son, resulting in Paul’s decision to visit his son who is working as a doctor in South America. In other movies, spontaneous romances are plausible, but especially with Paul’s sheltered disposition, the romance between these two does not come across as realistic.
This was one of those movies you wanted to like. The previews foretold heartwarming romance, and the actors were promising. However, the movie was impossible to connect with. The scenes were choppy, and the story had no build-up.
One minute they barely know each other, the next they are madly in love. Not to mention, their entire love affair supposedly occurred within a four day period.
It’s hard to believe Nights in Rodanthe was written by Nicholas Sparks, the same man who wrote The Notebook, which was both a great movie and book. Viewers expected another great love story, or at least a heartfelt movie. They were sorely disappointed.
The actors picked for the roles seemed well chosen. Both Lane and Gere have been in substantial, successful films in the past. In Nights in Rodanthe, neither of them was necessarily bad playing their role, but since neither part was well written or developed, it made no difference.
One of the best characters was Jean (Viola Davis), Adrienne’s inn-owning friend. Though only briefly in the film, her character was personable and added humor, as well as a more down-to-earth perspective on life.
Also disappointing, was the lack of good scene conclusions. One scene abruptly ended when Adrienne unexpectedly stated, “I have to go to bed.” Scene endings such as this made the movie awkward and lessened the build-up to their romance.
Furthermore, certain scenes lacked the drama they could have added to the film. For instance, a violent hurricane was supposedly heading towards Rodanthe. Yet, with all the build-up, the hurricane lasted no more than two minutes and only culminated in a brief semi-romantic moment between the leads.
If you’ve seen the previews, you need not look any further. The previews capture the extent of the romance in the film. When the credits rolled, I was left completely unexcited. A movie with such a terrible plot simply cannot force the viewer to care.
This love story had the potential to be the best of the year, but it failed to reach my expectations. Many viewers assumed Nights in Rodanthe would be up to par with such films as The Notebook. I guarantee those same viewers are now banging their heads on the wall, asking themselves how hard it is to create a respectable love story.
I now realize that I misinterpreted the movie’s tagline, “it’s never too late for a second chance.” More appropriately, it should read, “it’s never too late for a second chance…to leave the theater.”
Diane Lane and Richard Gere. Photo courtesy of http://blogs.nypost.com/movies
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