December 20181

CHANCELLOR HIGH SCHOOL 6300 HARRISON ROAD, FREDERICKSBURG, VA 22407

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HOLIDAY TRADITIONSFIELD HOCKEY STATE CHAMPS

BOLTLIGHTNINGTHE

December 2018 2

MRS. GATTIEADVISOR

AVA PURCELLEDITOR-IN-CHIEF

SAVANNAH AVERSALAYOUT EDITOR

HANNAH CLOVENNEWS EDITOR

CHRISTELLE TEMPLEFEATURES EDITOR

TAYLOR SULLIVANSPORTS EDITOR

FAITH REMICKJUNIOR OP-ED EDITOR

CHARGER FUR BABIES CONTESTMATCH THE NAME OF THE PET TO THE PICTURE AND TAKE YOUR ANSWERS TO ROOM A113 FOR A CHANCE TO

WIN A PRIZE.HAVE A PHOTO OF YOUR FURRY FRIEND YOU WANT TO SUBMIT?

EMAIL SUBMISSIONS TO LGATTIE@SPOTSYLVANIA.K12.VA.US.

Charger 1 Charger 2 Charger 3 Charger 4Names to choose from. Note: There are more names than pictures!

Sadie, Crystal, Katiebug, Snowball, Hank, Bolt, Layla

Front cover taken byMary Cate Mosher.

Back cover photograph taken by Rebecca Waurio.

Here are the correct names from our last issue: Charger 1) Pompeii

Charger 2) DylanCharger 3) DaisyCharger 4) Radar

TABLE OF CONTENTSNews ................................................... 4-6

Op-Ed .................................................7-11

Features ............................................ 12-19

Sports ................................................ 20-23

FUR BABIES CONTEST ANSWERS

SENIOR BREAKFAST SUCESS!The annual senior breakfast took place on November 19th at The Great American Buffet.Photos courtesy of Mr. Dockery.

December 20183

The Journalism students at Chancellor High School publish The Lightning Bolt, the only official newspaper on campus. The purpose of the newspaper is to factually inform and entertain its readers. As an established open forum for the student body, truth will be the staff’s major goal. It is the responsibility of each staffer to adhere to the journalism code of ethics as set by the Society of Professional Journalists, Sigma Delta Chi. The code states that a journalist can not accept gifts, favors or privileges that could compromise their integrity. All material published will be the result of brainstorm sessions by the staff. Subjects stimulating to the majority of the student body will be used. The editorial board, which is comprised of all newspaper staff members will determine the priority of the stories and the overall design of publication. The advisor serves to give students a better understanding of the functions and ethics of a free press. The advisor does not serve as a censure. Student editors will decide the material to be published. In accordance with community standards, profanity will not appear in the publication. Students are free to express an opinion on matters of public interests under the, “fair comment rule.” Under this rule, the student has the right to intelligently criticize the school and its policies. Editorials reflect the opinion of The Lightning Bolt. Opinion stories reflect the opinion of the writer and do not represent the opinion of the faculty and administrWation of Chancellor High School. Controversial issues will be covered from both points of view. School news, as well as local, national and international events will also be covered. Letters to the editor are welcomed. All letters must be signed and be between 200- 300 words long. They may be submitted to A113 or by e-mailing chhslightningbolt@yahoo.com. The Lightning Bolt retains the right to edit letters to comply with journalistic standards. Anonymous letters will not be published. This is your school, help improve it through your opinions, praises, and constructive criticisms. If voiced aloud and in large enough numbers, we can bring about change. Our ultimate goal is to print the truth and with your help we can reach this goal.

Follow us on instagram @tlbnewspaper

EDITORIAL

There seems to be no re-spite in the face of deadly gun violence in the United States. News stations across the coun-try have a story practically ev-ery month, which is alarming considering the exponential rate of gun-related unspeak-able deeds. The first shooting in a string of modern violence unraveled in 1966 at the Uni-versity of Texas. Within ap-proximately 50 years, over 1,100 fatalities have occured at the hands of a stranger with a gun. The topic politicians are squabbling over is the ‘best’ way to eradicate the issue. With a country of more than 325 million people, nationwide measures must be crafted in a tedious way. The problem is that Americans need more protection now. As high level

government officials debate specifications on gun restric-tions, civilians are dying. The issue is not so much a gridlock situation as tax reforms and le-galizing marijuana may be: it is pressing, dire, and urgent. Inevitably, the solutions to the abhorrent misuse of fire-arms are highly contested. Out of the weapons used (a total of 305 - some criminals were armed with more than one gun), 175 were obtained legally, 52 were illegal, and 78 were ob-tained in an unspecified man-ner. Given the statistics, it is rational to propose more strict

firearm laws on what weapons can be purchased. Proponents of the second amendment are against this measure, as it puts more restrictions on the Con-stitutional allowance to own a gun. In order to find common ground, which is necessary in progressing our counteraction to the tragedies, others have suggested that before even reaching the purchasing stage, prospective or current gun owners must endure a more rigid process to buy or keep their firearm. Many states have varied regu-lations on the procedure. By nationalizing legislation de-tailing a firearms course, back-ground check, yearly renewals of these measures, and sale processing, potential criminals can be deterred. This approach, in theory, would solve a small percentage of the dilemma,

but still aid in solving the gun violence crisis nonetheless. The statistic on the legality of weapons used above also high-lighted the fact that 130 guns were accessed illegally or in an shady manner: if a mentally ill person wishes to crimefully harm innocent people, they’ll be willing to break a few initial laws to get to that point. The true crisis the country seems to be facing is one of mental health. Shooters have come from troubled pasts and broken families, but they have also arisen from a seemingly normal household. It is too dif-

ficult to determine the position of every person without check-ups and a collection of data: what may become necessary in the future are mental health screenings in everyday life. Screening in the workplace and school facilities would not only ‘catch’ some psychopaths, but it could direct those who are depressed, anxious, and more to proper treatment. The

education sector can poten-tially root out the problem if enough restructuring is done. If more screenings were held and paid for by insurance, therapists and clinical coun-selors were in the schools, and other resources were readily available, the current violent culture could be greatly di-minished. Not only in drastic cases such as mass shootings, but singling out elementary students in horrible home life conditions and following through with mental help all the way through high school

By Ava PurcellEditor-in-Chief

would make a difference. This would accurately equip chil-dren with the morals and eth-ics to avoid crime, lessen the chance of developing/properly treat depression and other dis-orders, and propel their suc-cess in many other fields with the right tools to handle them-selves in society. There is no right answer in solving the firearms epidemic.

A mixture of solutions would best abolish the issue: until that combination is passed through legislation, we must

keep educating ourselves on what is available to citizens to locally change our environ-ment for the better, day by day.

Candelight vigil for Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School shooting in Parkland, Florida on February 15

Locations of recent gun violence.

Photo via cnn.com

“If a mentally ill person wishes to crimefully

harm innocent people, they’ll be willing to break a few initial laws to get to

that point.”

Rethinking solutions to handle firearms issues might be the answer to safety for all in the future.

December 2018 4

DARK SECRETS UNRAVEL IN ONE ACT PLAYBy Faith RemickOp-ed Editor “If you have to take one thing from all that you’ve seen, it should be that the sound of si-lence is the most serene.” From the script, this is a rather com-pelling quote that perfectly sums up the magical perfor-mance by Chancellor’s Drama students November 1. Ivy Shambitt and the Sound Machine is a 35 minute play that had people laughing, clinging to their seats, and fantasizing about what would happen next. In the beginning of the play the audience is in-troduced to a dirty girl named Pippa Van Hoozer (Cara Had-den) being chased by three bullies, Patience (Emma Mag-ner), Prudence (Hailey Belote),

and Penelope (Elena Noll). Just as the audience begins to feel sorry for the young girl an ee-rie sound emits from the dark-ness. As the bullies scurry away in fear, a young girl appears out of the darkness. Ivy Shambitt (played by un-derstudy Caroline Mosher on November 1) is a small and sickly girl who had no eyes and therefore no sight. Ivy had a gift so profound that when she sung the smallest note, hearts would flutter, wounds would heal, and ships would float. Husbands wanted children just like her, talented and loved. When wives could not satisfy their demands they simply left. The wives (Natalie Masaitas, Elizabeth Whitehurst, and Isa-

belle Withers), driven by strife, snuck into the Shambitt’s property one moonless night and drove a knife through Mrs. and Mr. Shambitt’s chest. The wives decided not to kill the talented child, but instead re-move her source of talent: her tongue. When Ivy returned to town the wives continued to try to hide their secret, after all, they left the young child to die. They used the young girl’s tal-ent to turn their sleepy town into a tourist spot. In the midst of Ivy’s performance a beast (Nicholas Gregory) comes and wrecks havoc in the town. Pip-pa was able to chase the beast away with one of Ivy’s sound jars and Ivy was given the task

to make a sound that will kill the beast. After quite a time working, Ivy came up with a concoction that will draw the beast out and kill him… or so we think. As the crowd gathered to watch the slaying of the beast, Ivy asks everyone to put on blindfolds and do not remove them no matter what. Ivy’s sound jars emits a sound that kills the residents of Apron-wood. The beast is then re-vealed as Ivy’s brother that no one knows about. In showbiz the show must go on no matter what. When most of the cast fell prey to various illnesses, the understudies re-ally stepped up and made this show one worth watching.

CHANCELLOR CLUBS PROMOTE CHRISTMAS SPIRIT

By Emma PurcellStaff Reporter The holiday season is one of the greatest times of the year to cherish moments spent with family and friends and feel the warmth of happiness and cheer. Hot chocolate by the fireside, grandma’s cozy apple pie, and the offering of gifts from one loved one to another are all ways that remind us of one of the most joyful times of the year. However, many kids and their families rarely or have never experienced Christmas in this way, and fortunately, Chancellor High School’s clubs are here to change that. Many of the clubs at Chan-cellor participate in their own charity project to provide a memorable holiday for the families in the Fredericksburg area. The Future Farmers of America, also known as FFA, are planning on donating toys to cancer patients at the Mary Washington University Hospi-tal.

“All of the officers pitched in and came up with ideas,” states Lauren Fletcher, president of the Chancellor chapter of FFA. “I went to our advisor, Virginia Pannill, and told her about the

different projects we could do to help out our community.” Fletcher also mentioned that her favorite part of charity work is being able to help those in need. “I love seeing the posi-tive impact it makes and all the kids reactions,” she states. As well as the donation of toys to cancer patients, FFA is also planning on collecting canned dog food for the local animals shelters. To get the word out and receive as many

including The Family, Career, and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA) and Nation-al Honor Society (NHS). NHS will also be giving presents to the Angel Tree Organiza-tion who collects gifts around Christmas time for children who aren’t fortunate. In addition, the Student Council Association (SCA) will have held a canned food drive during the month of Novem-ber that will help families in the Fredericksburg area get the nutrients they need. Chancellor clubs have pulled together to support the Fred-ericksburg community during this holiday season. Bringing a little light into a cancer pa-tient’s day with a new toy, giv-ing starved rescue dogs some-thing to eat, and providing a turkey for a family that cannot afford one are all heartfelt ways that these clubs have chosen to keep the Christmas spirit alive, even in the hardest times.

donations as possible, FFA will either be printing out posters or hand-drawn signs that will be hang up around the school. Other clubs, like the Distribu-tive Education Clubs of Ameri-ca (DECA), will also be collect-ing items including dog toys, food, bones, and paper towels for a local dog shelter, The Old Dominion Humane Society. These donations from both clubs to animal shelters in the Fredericksburg area will create a better experience and envi-ronment for dogs in need and give some stress-relief to the employees. Key Club will be giving back to the teachers this year with a sweet treat to brighten up their Christmas holiday with a candy sled! This “sled” will be made with candy canes for the base with stacked up delicious chocolates on top! As well as the candy sleds, Key Club will also be donating a turkey, along with of a few other clubs

NEWS

Chancellor clubs have pulled together to

support the Freder-icksburg community

during this holiday season.

December 20185

NEWS The Chancellor High School Lightning Regiment Marching Band has had a successfulseason despite some difficult times practicing because there were so many days they couldn’t practice outside. These days were due to bad weather : high temperatures and thunder-storms. Students in marching band had to adapt to indoor practices, although it paid off because they earned multiple first place awards, earned the highest rating at state assess-ment, and grew as not only musicians, but as people. Ryan Addair, the band direc-tor, said the highlight of the season was the first homefootball game. Usually Char-ger Chaos is located at the end zone of the football field, but this year it was moved to a sec-tioned part of the bleachers. While the band was perform-ing, they fed off of the energy that the students were giving

LEAVING WITH A BANGBy Natalie ArnoldStaff Reporter

off. Addair knew the season would go well, but he didn’t expect the amount of positive feedback from everyone. When asked about what stu-dents stood out in the season, Addair responded with, “There are way too many to list. The thing that is special about the Chancellor marching band is that no one lets anyone else fall behind. There is no bench, no alternates, no starters - every-one participates 100% of the time. The students all stick to-gether to make sure that theyare all improving and they push each other to get better everyday.” Planning this marching band show takes a lot of work, so much so that Addair is already planning the musical arrange-ments and visual ideas. He starts by teaching the funda-mental skills that they will need for the upcoming per-formance. These skills are de-veloped throughout the entire summer, and they won’t even

actually put onto the field until August. Throughout an entire season, about 150 hours will be put into this show to perfect it. One may get emotional chills when watching band perfor-mances, and wonder how Ad-dair came up with inspiration to make these amazing shows. He states that he goes through his normal everyday life and inspiration strikes whenever. In order, to come up with this year’s show, he originally went to the Fredericksburg Regional Food Bank and was going to have the show be about child-hood hunger, until he real-ized that society has become so enthralled with technology. It makes human relationships more difficult. According to one of the Marching Band members, Car-ley Slezak the highlight of herband season is the Virginia Beach trip. This is Slezak’s third season in the Lightning Regiment Marching Band, so when asked what is different

about this season than the oth-er two she stated, “I’d say what’s different about this season is how close everyone is and how obvious it is that we all love each other.” Members of the marching band have such close relationships. They develop these relationships due to the fact they spend around three months surrounded by each other practicing and perform-ing with each other. Slezak states, “We develop close rela-tionships by various bonding days Mr. Addair forces us to participate in.” The Lightning Regiment Marching Band is successful due to the dedication of all of its members and the help of the leaders and parents. Chan-cellor should be enormously proud of its marching band because they produce great amounts of success through-out their season, plus they are pretty amazing

SUCCESS AT VTA CONFERENCEBy Hannah ClovenNews Editor “I was just beaming with joy and tears. In that moment, I was super proud of all of the hard work our kids put into the show,” said Connor Worthing-ton, theatre arts teacher at Chancellor High School. The Chancellor High School Drama Department performed the one act play, Ivy Shambitt and the Sound Machine at the VTA Conference (Virginia

Theatre Association Annual Conference) where they re-ceived Top 6 for Best Produc-tion along with the Outstand-ing Technical Merit award and

an Honorable Mention for Outstanding Costume Design. In addition to getting Top Six in the state, two students, Ga-briella Lanzone (Ivy) and Nic Gregory (Beast), were both chosen as All-Star Cast Mem-bers at the conference. On October 24th through the 28th, more than 2,000 students, theatre community members, and teachers from 55 schools gathered together at the VTA Conference in Nor-folk, Virginia. They took part in ineractive workshops, listen-ing to guest speakers, college networking, and competing. “It truly is an amazing time for students to get exposed to the world of theatre from all over Virginia and even make many friendships with students from other schools.”said Worthing-

ton. The cast and crew, along with their set, took a bus up to Norfolk, Virginia. Even though the students from different schools were competing against each other,

the environment isn’t all about competing. “It’s kinda nice to be in the same room with people that you know [who] like the same things you do and you can turn around and talk to them like they’re your best friend.” said Gregory. “It was competetive, but everyone there supported each other which is a good thing...It’s nice

Photo Courtesy of Mr. Armetrout The Chancellor High School Drama Depart-ment performed the one act play, Ivy Shambitt and the Sound Machine.

“It’s nice to not be so uptight about every-

thing”

“In that moment, I was super proud of all of the hard work our kids put into the

show.”

to not be so uptight about ev-erything,” said Gregory The play was performed twice at the conference. Then, it was performed at the VHSL sub-regional competition and once after for an after school per-formance at Chancellor High School. On November 17, the drama department performed the play once more at Chancel-lor High School for the VHSL Regional competition and re-ceived second place.

December 2018 6

NEWSOPEN MIC

ONE ACT PLAY-IVY SHAMBITT

2019 YEARBOOK TEACHER SUPERLATIVES WINNERS

All Photos by Alana West.

The students have spoken! Con-gratulations to the 2018-2019 Yearbook Teacher Superlative winners!Most likely to be mistaken as a student: Ms. AminMost likely to win the lottery but lose the ticket: Mr. GlessnerBest Besties: Mr. Barber and Mr. RudolphThe teacher they will not for-get: Mr. MooreMost likely to win the Hunger Games: Mr. LinzaMost likely to eat while teach-ing: Mr. FreyMost Chill: Mr. MeyerMost likely to call you out: Mr. LarkinMost likely to be a movie star: Mr. ArmentroutMost likely to quietly take over the world: Mr. AddairBorn in the wrong decade: Ms. SchwarMost spirited: Ms. Bernard

Students performed in the library during

lunches on November 20th.

Caroline Mosher, Alexa Rivas, Natalie Masitis, Cara Hadden, Isabelle Withers, Elena Noll, Brent Kniepp, Emma Magner, Hailey Belote pictured below in Chancellor’s winning VTA performace.

December 20187

OP-ED

LOOK FORWARD, NOT BACKBy Faith RemickOp-Ed Editor According to a survey from Marist College Institute for Public Opinion, 44 percent of Americans will soon begin an ambitious self-improve-ment program. It happens at the turn of every new year; gyms gain memberships and creative sparks fill the air. This only lasts for so long, as so few “resolvers” actu-ally keep their commitments. New Year’s resolutions: we love them, we hate them.

Many find these resolutions stupid and childish because no one really follows through with them, but imagine how much better the lives of Ameri-cans would be if everyone stuck to the goals they made. We would be healthier, hap-pier and way more victorious. Resolutions are an idea that helps to define who we are as human beings. What sepa-rates us from other creatures on the planet is our capability to rise above our instincts in order to make decisions with

a positive influence. Coming up with New Year’s resolu-tions forces us to reflect on our actions. Self-reflection is

very important for everyone. Every resolution is important, whether you decide to have a

healthier lifestyle, spend more time with your family, or to start doing your schoolwork on time. People who make resolu-tions will change the world and become a necessary part in our society. Improving one-self is a part of improving the world. So, as you move on to the New year, look back at what you’ve accomplished and what you have yet to do, and stick to your goals.

People who make res-olutions will change

the world and become a necessary part in

our society.

By: Ariel Goodrich, Katie Stafford Freelance and Staff Reporter

TAKE ACTION TO STOP BULLYING According to stopbully-ing.com, “Bullying affects all youth, including those who are bullied, those who bully others, and those who see bullying going on. Some ef-fects may last into adulthood.” Bullying is common in schools across America. In some situa-tions the bully gets away with his or her crime and others get punished. Consider this hypo-thetical example: A 12-year-old boy bullies a seven-year-old boy, then a six-year-old girl stands up to the bully. She tells him to back off. When the bully doesn’t, the girl hits him hard with a textbook. The school decides to suspend the girl, but the bully gets no punishment. Is this a fair decision or not? In this situation the bully receives no punishment even though he started it, and the girl who stood up for the other boy gets suspended. She did hit him with a textbook, but is that a reason to suspend her? Would a more fair verdict be that the girl gets a warning or a letter sent home so her parents can understand the incident? If bullies go unpunished, they are more likely to do it more, and then the problem gets worse. The lack of punishment

can lead to the bully thinking he or she can get away with their wrongdoing, and think it’s okay to bully someone. This can lead to problems in the future for the bully and the victim(s). The bully will leave the victim with social and emotional problems that may last through adulthood. There are people who try to stand up to bullying, and some of these do-gooders do get punished which may leave them think-ing that trying to stop bully-ing is wrong, or at least not worth their effort. This can re-sult in a world of enraged bul-lies, frightened victims, and wrongly-accused bystanders. If we don’t stop bullies they could be America’s next con-victs and the poor victims will not have a bright future either. The best way to stop this is to punish bullies fairly, and teach kids how to handle bullying and how to stand up in different situations. Schools may teach the basics, but the basics don’t always work and can result in catastrophic situations. Some kids won’t know how to prop-erly handle some situations, and they think that a wrong so-lution is the proper way to han-dle it, like fighting the bully. The President of the Anti-Bullying Club, Nick Cabrera, a

junior, is passionately involved in this cause. “If a student at Chancellor witness bullying, he or she should go to guid-ance, and they’ll tell you what to do next,” states Cabrera. IKEA did a study to show the verbal bullying effects on two plants. Both plants were placed in GEMS schools across the United Arab Emir-ates (UAE). One plant was be-rated with harsh words, while the other was complimented. Surprisingly, the one that was being teased withered and almost died, its leaves hang-ing loosely. The one that was complimented flourished, with its leaves high in the air. A ninth grade female stu-dent whose name is being withheld, was cyberbullied by a friend of hers. Her friend said another student was stalking her, but the female student asked the accused, he said he was only saying goodbye to one of his friends. Once her friend found out, she cyberbullied her by say-ing that a friend wouldn’t go behind her back, how she was too uncomfortable to stay her friend, how she had forgotten it (when she had brought up the student that morning), and calling her friend the lowest of the low for her compassion-

ate, open-minded action. This type of nonsense must stop. “Bullying is more common, es-pecially by social media. We’re doing a SPCA drive by bringing in goods to the local SPCA,” Ca-brera said. “It’s going now until December 21st. Bring in paper towels, garbage bags, pet toys, food, and other items to A201.” Bullying can lead to vic-tims being depressed, from depression that does not do that much damage, to a suicidal depression. Remember, students can stop bullying in several ways, like comforting the victim, reporting any bullying, or making awareness to bully-ing. Get involved now and stop bullying once and for all.

Photo by: Katie StaffordPresident Nick Cabrera, co-

founder of Anti-Bullying club, speaks passionately about

bullying.

December 2018 8

OP-ED10 MUST SEE MOVIES OF THE HOLIDAYS

By Emma PurcellStaff Reporter While waiting for the one of the most exciting days of the year to roll around the corner, a great way to keep the Christmas spirit burning is to watch some holiday movies. Cozy up on the couch, pop some popcorn, and get the family together to watch some of the most clas-sic holiday movies of all time!1. Home Alone: 8 year old Kev-in is left home alone when his family accidentally leaves with-out him to go on a trip. While he’s stuck at the house two men attempt robbery, but Kevin has some tricks up his sleeve!2. Elf: The main character Buddy was unintentionally brought to the North Pole as a

child and raised as an elf. Af-ter living with the feeling of not fitting in for the longest time, he takes a trip to New York to find his birth father.3. The Polar Express: A boy takes a thrilling ride on a train to the North Pole and expe-riences the mysteries of life that exist when you believe. 4. The Santa Clause: Sin-gle Dad, Scott, mistakenly harms Santa and is whisked off to the North Pole with his son. An elf tells him that he must replace Santa before the next Christmas happens.5. National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation: Clark Griswold wants to have an extraordinary Christmas,

but things begin to go down-hill when his cousin and family show up unexpect-edly and start to live in their camper on Clark’s property. 6. How The Grinch Stole Christmas: One of the most iconic stories by Dr. Se-uss comes to life each holi-day season, where an angry and stubborn Grinch wants to steal Christmas from the small town of Whoville.7. Miracle on 34th Street: Su-san, a precious six year old girl, is beginning to have doubts about Santa Clause because of her mother Dorey. But soon enough, Dorey is assigned the job of hiring “Santa” for Macy’s this season and along

the way she meets someone claiming to be Santa himself. 8. A Charlie Brown Christ-mas: Based off the com-ic strip Peanuts, Char-lie Brown searches for the true meaning of Christmas. 9. The Nightmare Before Christmas: Jack, Halloween-town’s praised king, accidently finds Christmastown, where all is happy and bright. He plans to kidnap Santa Claus and take his place, but soon his plan becomes more com-plicated than at first assumed.10. Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer: Rudolph and his misfit friends look for a place that will ac-cept them for who they are.

WALKING IN WONDERLAND Fredericksburg hosts many fun and family-friendly holiday-themed events. Many activities are either free or inexpensive. Here are some fun ideas of what to do this winter break! Spotsylvania Towne Center has Christmas light shows ev-ery year. The shows started No-vember 10th and continue un-til December 24th. Every night the show times are at 6:30 pm, 7:30 pm, 8:30 pm, and 9:30 pm. The Christmas tree out-side is covered in lights which change by the synchronized sounds of a variety of Christ-mas classics. This is the per-fect show for younger siblings. On December 22nd, there is Santa’s Workshop at Freder-icksburg Expo & Conference Center from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm. At this event, there will be gifts for last minute Christmas shopping, activities for kids, concession stands, and pic-tures with Mrs. Claus. Tickets are $5 in advance at the web-site Event Brite, and also $7 at the door. Children 12 and

under get it for free. This is another family-friendly event. The 32nd Annual Ginger-bread Contest and Exhibit can be seen until Decem-ber 30th, excluding Decem-ber 24th and 35th, at George Washington’s Ferry Farm. This year’s theme is Cartoon Ad-ventures. For information on hours and exhibit fees visit the events page at kenmore.org. Downtown Fredericksburg is hosting Window Wonder-land from November 10th to December 31st. Between the hours of 9:00 am and 11:00 pm, stop by the visitor center to pick up an entry form. There are 57 riddles to be solved in the windows of select stores. Once all riddles are solved, turn in the form to the visitor center for a chance to win a $1000 in downtown gift cards. This New Year’s Eve, the Fredericksburg Fairgrounds is hosting a Family Fun Night. The event is from 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm. There will be live music playing, food vendors, a bouncy castle, games for kids, raffles and prizes! At 9

pm there will be a New Year’s countdown and ping pong ball drop. On Event Brite, buy-ing tickets cost $5 each or $15 for a family of 4. On-site the tickets are $7 each and $27 for a family of 4. Children two years and under get in for free. Another event on New Year’s Eve is the Haiti Benefit Organ Concert at St. George’s Epis-copal Church. Admission is free, but donations are greatly encouraged. The concert goes from 8:30 pm to 9:30 pm. On New Year’s day there is a 5K and a 10K race from 9:30 am to 11:30 am at Old Mill Park in Fredericksburg. Race times and entry fees vary. For more information and a link to the online registration, go to the 2019 New Year’s 5k & 10k Facebook page. The races benefit the charity “Furnish A Home Again”. Walkers, stroll-ers and leashed pets are wel-come to attend this event.

By Cara SeelyStaff Reporter

INSPIRED BY ART

Artwork by Chloe Garvey

December 20189

OP-ED Coming into high school can be difficult. Things are new, people change, and the level of schoolwork skyrockets. Don’t stress too long about it though. We at The Lightning Bolt are always here to help! Here are some tips and tricks to get you through your freshman year, or any other year you need to get through. The tips for this month involve surviving the freezing cold and harsh weath-er of the next few months.1. Bundle up: The human body can handle extreme tempera-tures, but without thick clothes

TRICKS N’ TIPS FOR STAYING WARMBy Faith RemickOp Ed Editor

The holidays are right around the corner and that means cold weather, celebrations, and lotsof fun! Grab a cup of hot chocolate and let’s get start-ed on our Christmas style! One of the most fun things to wear during the holidays are ugly sweaters. Be unique and DIY your sweater or buy one from the store. If you DIY a sweater here are some ideas. Go to the thrift store, get an old sweater and then make a stop at the craft store. Find cotton balls to glue on to look like a snowman. Make three circles ascending in size from bottom to top and decorate it with whatever ac-cessories you want it to have. Another idea is getting a stocking, gluing it on to the front of the sweater, and fill-ing the stocking with candy canes! Spread the Christmas cheer and hand the candy canes out to some of your friends. Use hot glue or fabric glue to attach things to your sweater. Let your imagina-tion run wild and do what-

Community service is a ne-cessity. Engaging in communi-ty service will provide one with the opportunity to become an active member of your commu-nity and have a lasting, positive impact on our society at large. It enables you to acquire life skills and knowledge, as well

as providing a service to those who need it most. Some com-munity service options include:1.) Camp One Step: Volun-teers will serve as counselors for kids with cancer who come to camp to have fun and cel-ebrate their childhood years. Each counselor is typically as-signed 3-4 children to care for during the program. Strong relationships are built and friendships are created! If you are interested, sign up today.2.) Hospice and Palliative care: Creative Sewers Welcome! If you love to sew and have a

and accessories that will pro-tect you from harsh wind, rain, and the bite of cold, your body can deteriorate much faster.2. Indulge in Foods That Help You Keep Warm: Eat-ing healthy in the winter is im-portant to fend off colds and the flu, but it can help keep you warm too. Eating extra healthy fats during the winter can help speed up metabo-lism, which heats up the body.3. Keep your toes warm: Hy-pothermia is most likely to begin in your feet, so keep-ing your toes warm is impor-tant. Whether you’re walk-

ing to your bus or just around the block, make sure to wear sturdy, insulated shoes that will help prevent slips on slick surfaces and keep your feet dry.4. Familiarize yourself with government terms for winter weather emergen-cies: Freezing Rain - Rain that freezes when it hits the ground, creating a coating of ice on roads, walkways, trees and power lines. Sleet is rain that turns to ice pellets before reaching the ground. Sleet also causes moisture on roads to freeze and become slippery. 5. Drink something warm:

Hot drinks and soups will make you feel warmer. Hot fluids don’t literally raise your internal temperature, but they do give you the impres-sion of heating up. Your mouth is among the most sensitive parts of your body. The hot liquid in the area gives you the feeling that you’re warm.6. Treat your furry friends like family: Always remem-ber to bring pets inside when temperatures begin to drop. Dress up your pets in cute sweaters and limit dog walk-ing to ten minutes a day.

ever kind of design you want. Think outside the holiday box. Planning on buying a sweat-er from the store? Here are a couple places to go. Target hassweaters with all different de-signs starting at $20 and going up to $40. Walmart has manyoptions of ugly sweaters start-ing at $10 and go up to $22. Some of them light up and others have pompoms and sequins. Ross and Marshalls

have sweaters as well. Prices will vary because their in-ventory is always changing. Shipments are usually in on Tuesday so that is probably the best day to go look. Thrift stores are also a good place to look because when people are done with wearing their sweaters for the year some do-nate them, so you never know what you are going to find!

HOLIDAY FASHIONTRENDY, TACKY

By Savannah AversaLayout Editor

Grab a cup of hot chocolate

and get started on your Christmas style!

heart to help grieving families that are dealing with the loss of a loved one try Seasonal Seam-stress (SS). SS Volunteers lov-ingly make teddy bears, pillows, aprons and blankets to present to each family in honor of their loved one! You can do this all in the comfort of your own home.3.) Fredericksburg Area Mu-seum: The FAM will host a traditional holiday market. This event will feature over 20 vendors representing the food, arts, and retail industry of Fredericksburg. Volunteer opportunities include clean-up, parking attendants, gate attendants, beverage assis-tants, gift wrappers, cashiers, and museum attendants.4.) Stafford Junction: Offers a after school tutoring pro-gram during the school year. Students who are served are in low income areas and per-form below grade level. After basic homework assistance, the remaining time is focused on reading and math skills getting them to and/or keep-ing them at grade level. This program runs through April.

By Faith RemickOp-Ed Editor

MAKE IMPACT IN YOUR COMMUNITY

It enables you to acquire life skills and knowledge, as well as providing a service.

December 2018 10

OP-ED New music comes out every day regardless of who knows about. Here’s a list of goodsongs and artists you may have missed.1. Blood//Water by Grandson has hype that is unmatched in the alternative indie genreand will not likely fail to get you amped.2. I’ll Still Have Me by Cyn, in the pop genre, is a calm sooth-ing approach to a hardtime and while it gives off a sad vibe, it also feels like going from winter to spring.3. Cranes in the Sky by Solange has elements of the classics, pop, and jazz while beingin the Indie pop genre. If it doesn’t lull you to sleep, it will have you floating.4. Do It All The Time by ID-

KHTFM which is in the genres of new wave and post-punkand gives off a retro punk vibe.5. The Night We Met by Lord Huron is a song that evokes a lot of emotion so don’t listento it if you aren’t willing to cry. It is in the genre of alternative indie and is sad but soothing.6. Somebody Else by Flora Cash is one song that you either im-mediately love or hatewith no in-between. It’s slight-ly emotional, but also calming inn the genre of alternative in-die.7. Gooey by the Glass Animals Is another song that you may immediately hate but ifyou like it you will love it. It’s soothing and gives the sensa-tion of being suspended some-where. It’s upbeat, and laid-back and in the genre of Indie pop.

Here are some Obscure artists.1. Marina & The Diamonds:The Marina & The Diamonds vibe is like part future and part past and it’s in the genres of In-die, electro pop, and new wave music.2. Cavetown: Cavetown is Indie pop with a alternative feel.3. Oliver Tree: Oliver Tree is like no other artist. He’s in the genres of Indie pop, punk rock and hip hop, and his ibe is along the lines of angry hype.4. Lund: Lund has the vibe of sad hype which is hard to pull off and is in the genres of hip hop and rap.5. Noah Cyrus: Noah Cyrus makes music that seems to com from somewhere deep with a somber feel. Hermusic is in the pop genre.6. Two Door Cinema Club In

the genres of indie rock, pop, and post punk revival, two door Cinema club has a uniqueupbeat vibe that can only be described by cowbells and pop up graphics.7. Alt J: Alt J has a Heavy yet soothing take on the experi-mental rock and indie pop genres with a sharptone and abstract vibe.8. Alec Benjamin: Alec Benja-min runs with a pick-me-up sound in the pop genre. His-songs are sad but alsocalming Find new songs and artists you’ll like listening to. If you have any songs or artist that you think are underrated or obscure, email them in to:kcgarvey-10@spotsylvania.k12.va.us.

OBSCURE, UNDERRATED MUSICBy Kaitlyn GarveyStaff Reporter

A PLEASANT CHRISTMAS PARADE My family and I have gone to this parade ever since I can re-member. Throughout the years, we have learned what supplies to bring and how early to get there. A lot of people gather to watch the annual Spotsylva-nia Christmas Parade, so if you want a good spot, you need to get there early. We arrive there around 1:30, but last year our normal spot was taken, so we have to get there earlier this year in order to make sure our spot isn’t taken. Of course, you

don’t have to get there early and bring a lot of supplies, but if you want to be extra like my family here is what you have to bring. We bring foldable chairs, so we don’t have to sit on the ground for the many hours we are outside. Bringing blan-kets, hoodies, jackets, hats, gloves, scarves, and earmuffs are crucial because you will be cold. Since the parade is in Downtown Fredericksburg, there are many food options that you could buy, but if you

don’t want to spend any money while you are out there packing food is a must. We bring two huge coolers: one for drinks and one for food. Some fam-ily favorites include: macaroni salad, sandwiches, chips, Capri Suns, water, hot chocolate, and a few miscellaneous foods that change throughout the years that we attend. What we’ve learned through-out the years is that to bring portable chargers and extra blankets and jackets because if you are too warm, you can

always take off layers. Bring something occupy your time, besides you phone. I usually bring a word search puzzle or a friend. Bringing a friend can help boredness because you all can walk around downtown in the time before the parade. The Spotsylvania Christmas Parade is an annual tradition in my family. It is a tremen-dously fun family gathering to attend for all ages. At the very end of the parade, Santa makes a guest appearance and it puts a smile on the faces of all.

By Natalie ArnoldStaff Reporter

Natalie Arnold and company sits in the freezing cold to enjoy the Christ-

mas Festivities

Photo taken by: Donna

December 201811

Holiday Recipes to Bring in the Spirit of the Season

December 2018 12

By Bailey McDanirelStaff Reporter

FEATURESCELEBRATION OF CULTURE

Sounds of drums and vari-ous musical selections fill the air with excitement as faces of smiling women dance wearing kaftans, a form of draped cloth ensemble that has both formal and informal forms. Readings of the African Pledge, Prin-ciples of Blackness, and other African American historical-based scriptures are later read. Children dance with their mothers and sisters, partici-pate respectfully and display many acts of gratitude towards their ancestors throughout the celebration. Various objects of art and colorful African cloth such as kente, a type of silk and cotton fabric interwoven in strips to create a distinct pattern, sur-round participants and provide energetic power to the celebra-tion. Plenty of fresh fruits rep-resenting idealism of African culture accompany the art in a tasteful manner. Rituals follow the celebration such as candle-lighting and Libation, the ritual of pouring grains such as rice or liquids in

memory of the fallen, or as an offering to spirits and God.These are all characteristics of the special holiday of Kwanzaa. Kwanzaa is a celebration that honors African heritage of Af-rican-American culture. This celebration occurs between December 26 and January 1st, lasting seven days in total. Kwanzaa derives from the Swa-hili phrase “matunda ya kwan-za” meaning “first fruits of the harvest”; it more convention-ally translates to “first fruits”. The grand feast of Kwanzaa occurs on the sixth day. This feast is known as Karamu Ya Imani. Kwanzaa was created in 1966 by Maulana Karenga, also known as Ronald McKin-ley Everett. Karenga was an American Black Power activist and secular humanist. Kwan-zaa was specifically made an African-American holiday. There are various symbols of Kwanzaa included in the cel-ebration of this joyous holiday. One of the symbols includes the candle stick containing seven candles known as Kina-ra. There are three colors used

within these candles and cho-sen to symbolize the bendera which is a flag known very well in Kwanzaa traditions. The candles are in the order of three green candles on the right, three red candles on the left, and a single black candle in the middle. Kwanzaa is dedicated to seven core principles: Umoja (Unity), Kujichagulia (Self-Determina-tion), Ujima (Collective Work and Responsibility), Ujamaa (Cooperative Economics), Nia (Purpose), Kuumba (Creativi-ty), and Imani (Faith). The first principle, Umoja, means to seek and preserve unity in the family, community, nation, and race. While the second prin-ciple, Kujichagulia, reflects the creation of self by definition and naming ourselves as well as speaking for ourselves. The third principle being Ujima means to shape and sustain our community in unity by solv-ing each other’s problems as if they were our own problems, together. Ujamaa, the fourth principle, reflects the forming and maintenance of our own

stores, shops, and other busi-nesses and to profit from them together. The fifth principle Nia is defined as unification of purpose into a collective calling to life that builds and develops community in order to restore people to their tradi-tional greatness. Kuumba, the sixth principle, means by defi-nition to do as much as one can to leave one’s community more beautiful and beneficial than it was inherited. The last prin-ciple, Imani, shows the duty to believe in and trust with all rul-ly in people, parents, teachers, leaders, and the righteousness and victory of the collective struggle. Kwanzaa is the celebration of an amazing and unique culture of African Americans. Many traditions of Kwanzaa reflect the interesting culture and values of those who celebrate it. There are many aspects of Kwanzaa that derive their meaning from history and pro-mote kindness to further edu-cate and reform the world into a better place for all.

Fredericksburg hosts many fun and family-friendly holi-day-themed events. Many ac-tivities are either free or inex-pensive. Spotsylvania Towne Center has Christmas light shows ev-ery year. The shows started No-vember 10th and continue until December 24th. Every night the show times are at 6:30 pm, 7:30 pm, 8:30 pm, and 9:30 pm. The Christmas tree outside is covered in lights which change by the synchronized sounds of a variety of Christmas classics. This is the perfect show for younger siblings. On December 22nd, there is

Santa’s Workshop at Freder-icksburg Expo & Conference Center from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm. At this event, there will be gifts for last minute Christmas shopping, activities for kids, concession stands, and pictures with Mrs. Claus. Tickets are $5 in advance at the website Event Brite, and also $7 at the door. Children 12 and under get it for free. This is another family-friendly event. The 32nd Annual Ginger-bread Contest and Exhibit can be seen until December 30th, excluding December 24th and 35th, at George Washington’s Ferry Farm. This year’s theme is Cartoon Adventures. For in-formation on hours and exhibit

fees visit the events page at ken-more.org. Downtown Fredericksburg is hosting Window Wonderland from November 10th to Decem-ber 31st. Between the hours of 9:00 am and 11:00 pm, stop by the visitor center to pick up an entry form. There are 57 riddles to be solved in the windows of select stores. Once all riddles are solved, turn in the form to the visitor center for a chance to win a $1000 in downtown gift cards. This New Year’s Eve, the Fredericksburg Fairgrounds is hosting a Family Fun Night. The event is from 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm. There will be live

music playing, food vendors, a bouncy castle, games for kids, raffles and prizes! At 9 pm there will be a New Year’s count-down and ping pong ball drop. On Event Brite, buying tickets cost $5 each or $15 for a family of 4. On-site the tickets are $7 each and $27 for a family of 4. Children two years and under get in for free. Another event on New Year’s Eve is the Haiti Benefit Organ Concert at St. George’s Episco-pal Church. Admission is free. On New Year’s day there is a 5K and a 10K race from 9:30 am to 11:30 am at Old Mill Park in Fredericksburg. The races benefit the charity “Furnish A Home Again”.

By Cara SeeleyStaff Reporter

FUN HOLIDAY EVENTS AROUND ‘BURG

December 201813

FEATURES DISCOVER MAGIC BEHIND CHRISTMAS

The smell of hot chocolate whisps through the chilly air; many might even report Jack Frost nipping at their nose! The dark night illuminates in sections of neon blues, reds, greens, and yellows. These col-ors shine from within plastic shapes found outside houses in the form of snowmen, snow-flakes, reindeer, penguins, and even a special jolly character. This special character is known as Santa Claus, Saint Nick, or even Khris Kringle. Santa Claus is a fictional char-acter made up for children. On the night of Christmas as kids sleep, Santa visits and leaves presents for “good” children and for those who are “bad” receive coal. Cookies and milk are a typical tradition to leave out on Christmas night for Santa as a late night snack and gratitude for visiting. Another common tradition is known as Elf on the Shelf which is es-sentially a doll elf that is placed somewhere in the house and every night he moves. The pur-pose of the elf is to explain how Santa sees who is naughty and who is nice. The elf is supposed to be Santa’s “scout elf” and in reality is moved by the parents to create that Christmas magic feeling for children. Other tra-ditions include some locations like local malls where there are people dressed as Santa where kids will line up to sit on San-ta’s lap to tell him what they want for Christmas. Christmas wasn’t originated from this fictional character of Santa, but rather the birth of Jesus Christ as believed in the Christian religion. This holi-day takes place on December 25. There are other ways of celebrating the birth of Christ

By Bailey McDanielStaff Reporter

such as the Twelve Days of Christmas, also known as Twel-vetide which is a festival lasting from the 25th of December un-til the 5th of January (refer to The Twelve Days of Christmas song). Decorating for Christmas is a big deal; there are even com-petitions for the best scen-ery. Decorations often involve wreaths, nativity scenes (also known as manger scenes, the location Jesus was said to be born), and all kinds of lights displayed in different ways like hanging or sitting on the ground. Wreaths are often con-structed out of flowers, leaves, fruits, twigs, bows, etc. in a ring shape that is frequently displayed on front doors of homes. Lights displayed out-side are found in common shapes of Santa, snowflakes, Jesus, Rudolph (a famous red-nosed deer on TV and in books that is said to have saved Christmas one foggy night), snowmen, and Christmas trees. Other interesting Christ-mas competitions involve ugly sweater contests and ginger-bread house contests. Christmas trees are a large part of the holiday; they are typically evergreen conifers, spruce, or pine trees brought into houses and then deco-rated with tinsel, candy canes, ornaments, garland, and more. Candy canes are cane-shaped candy, traditionally a twist of white and red peppermint fla-vored stripes. They can serve as both decoration and treats! Another familiar treat of the Christmas holiday is ginger-bread. Gingerbread is a typical treat eaten on Christmas and is even used to build mini edible treats, it’s a type of baked good that is flavored with ginger, cloves, nutmeg or cinnamon

and sweetened with honey, sugar or molasses. Christmas is said to be the holiday of giving, more often than not that giving is done through gifts. Gift giving is cus-tom on christmas as an object is boxed or wrapped in decora-tive boxes or wrapping paper and then opened on christmas morning. Family members, co-workers, and friends may meet before christmas and swap gifts as well. Another form of a gift could be Christmas Cards which usually send a mes-sage conveying sentimental wishes to a loved one, often containing a small gift with them as well. Many also give gifts through other mediums such as church services, this is a common christian tradition even not during the christmas season. Christmas Caroling could also be another form of giving as it is performed in groups of all sizes and involves people going out (typically at night) and knocking on doors to then sing the home owners christmas songs. Other interesting items in-volving Christmas include Christmas crackers, they are cardboard tubes covered in brightly decorated paper with a prize in a middle chamber, this

resembles an oversized candy wrapper. The cracker is pulled apart by two people, each hold-ing an outer chamber, causing the cracker to split unevenly and leaving one person hold-ing the middle chamber and prize. Nut crackers are anoth-er festive item of Christmas which are said to bring good luck to families and protect the home, they represent power and strength and serve like a trusty watch dog, guarding families from evil spirits and danger. Mistletoes is a popular type of plant during Christmas that is traditionally hung over doorways and as the tradition goes, when two people meet under the mistletoe they are to kiss. Christmas is a truly magical holiday originating from the birth of the Christian belief of the birth of Jesus. This holiday is celebrated through various of decorations and traditions often surrounding children and good graces. The addition of the fictional Santa Claus re-ally creates a magical feel of Christmas as well as adding some fun to the holiday for kids to get involved. This holi-day is sincerely a generous and fresh take on the magic of hope and faith.

Think you know everything about one of the biggest holidays of the year? Think again.

December 2018 14

FEATURESJAPANESE NEW YEAR’S EVE: OMISOKA

By Bailey McDanielStaff Reporter December 31: the day before the ball drops and the new year begins. Many refer to this day as New Year’s Eve, however, this day is known to the Japa-nese as Omisoka. The word “misoka” in Omisoka means the last day of every month in Japanese, including the extra “O” in front of the word gives the meaning big to the celebra-tion title. There are several traditions that the Japanese have for Omisoka. One of these tradi-tions is called Toshikoshi-so-ba, the custom of eating soba noodles which are made from buckwheat flour. It is said that Toshikoshi-soba started dur-ing the Edo period (1603-1868). The consuming of noodles means a wish for living long like a noodle and cutting bad luck off because soba noodles break more easily than other noodles. Instead of soba noo-dles, some people eat udon noodles on Omisoka because it is believed that udon sounds like “un” which means luck or fortune in Japanese. Some peo-ple say that udon noodles are more lucky than soba noodles since a soba is long and thin but udon is long and thick. Another common Omisoka tradition is known as Toshi-noyu where one takes a bath in the night of Omisoka. This became a tradition in order for people to cleanse their body before New Year’s day. The cleansing is followed by eat-ing lucky foods to start the new year off well with fortune. Similar to Toshinoyu is another tradition called Osoji. Osoji is the cleansing of the house. By cleaning the house on New Year’s Day, you sweep out the dust with luck and fortune. The final and most well-known tradition of Omisoka is the ringing of the bells. Bells in almost all the temples are rung

on Omisoka to ring out the old year called Joya-no-kane. The bells are struck one-hundred and eight times because there are one-hundred and eight Bonnou, human desires and passions that disturb a human’s mind. The goal is for people to get rid of Bonnou with hearing them before New Year’s Day. The last bell is struck on the New Year’s Day wishing people to live without Bonnou in the

New Year. A common decoration to have outside a house during Omiso-ka is Kadomatsu. Kadomatsu are placed out after Christmas and until January 7. They are considered temporary shintai (housing) for kami (divine be-ing). Designs for Kadomatsu vary depending on region but are typically made of pine, bamboo, and sometimes ume tree sprigs (Asian tree species, close to apricot) which repre-sent longevity, prosperity and steadfastness. The fundamen-tal function of the New Year ceremonies is to honor and receive the toshigami (deity/

godly figure), who will then bring a bountiful harvest for farmers and bestow the ances-tors’ blessing on everyone. Af-ter January 15 the Kadomatsu is burned to appease the kami or toshigami and release them. The structure of a Kadomatsu is formed from three large bamboo shoots. Similar to sev-eral traditions of ikebana (Jap-anese flower arrangement), the shoots are set at different

heights and represent heav-en, humanity, and earth with heaven being the highest and earth being the lowest. Some Kadomatsu place the humani-ty and earth shoots at the same height. After binding all the elements of the Kadomatsu, it is bound with a straw mat and newly woven straw rope. Kado-matsu are placed in pairs on ei-ther side of the gate, represent-ing male and female.Osechi is a traditional Omiso-ka food that resembles closely to bentō (sectioned take-out boxes). Osechi is separated in specific sections, and de-

pending on the food, can be substituted with other dishes. Referring to the picture dia-gram, the typical dishes in a four sectioned box tend to be simmered shrimp (1), ta-zuki or dried sardines cooked in soy sauce (2), nishime or cooked vegetables (3), kam-aboko or broiled fish cake (4), and datemaki or sweet rolled omelette mixed with fish paste or mashed shrimp. Many of the Osechi dishes have deeper meanings to them. One ex-ample would be the tazuki dish which translates to rice paddy maker. Since tazuki was his-torically used to fertilize rice fields it offers the symbolism of an abundant harvest. Kam-aboko, which is traditionally prepared in slices of red and white and placed in alternate rows or arranged in a pattern, represents Japan’s rising sun and the wish of celebratory festival. Datemaki symbolizes a wish for many favorable days. On these favorable days Japa-nese people traditionally wear fine clothing as a part of enjoy-ing themselves. Different dishes are featured in Osechi boxes that follow the shape of the diagram. These dishes include appetizers (6), konbumaki or rolled sea kelp called “Kombu” (7), kurikin-ton or sweet potato and chest-nuts (8), tobiko or “flying fish roe” (9), grilled sea bream (10), kazunoko or herring roe (11), pickled vegetables (12), and sweets (13). Just like the other Osechi box, these dishes also have meanings. One of the im-portant meanings being the dish called konubumaki which represents happiness as the word for happiness in Japanese is “yorokobu” which is similar to “Kombu”, and because of this it means good luck. Kurikinton means prosperity due to its golden color. Tobiko (roe being fish eggs) is symbolism of fer-

Photo via Bailey McDaniel.

December 201815

FEATURESILLUMINATING MIRACLE: HANUKKAH

By Bailey McDanielStaff Reporter

OMISOKA CONTINUED

As the sun sets whispers of a blessing is said over a candle before lighting it. This blessing is called shehecheyanu and is the blessing put over the can-dles on the first day of Hanuk-kah. Hanukkah, a Jewish holi-day that lasts for eight nights and days, starts on the 25th day of Kislev (third month of the civil year and the ninth month of the ecclesiastical year) ac-cording to the Hebrew c a l e n -dar. This year Ha-n u k k a h starts on Decem-ber 2 and ends De-c e m b e r 10. Ha-n u k k a h is also k n o w n as the Festival of Lights or the Feast of Dedication. There are nine branches of the candelabrum (candle tree) called a Hanukkah me-norah. One branch is typically higher or lower than the oth-ers, this candle is known as the Shamash (meaning “atten-dant”) and is used to light the other candles every night until on the final (eighth) night all nine candles are lit. Lights are traditionally lit each night at nightfall or sunset.There are two other blessings that are put on the candles on the last night of Hanukkah, plus the one pre-viously mentioned that is put on the candles the first day, making it a total of three bless-ings over the candles during Hanukkah. The blessings over the candles are typically said either before or after lighting the candle, depending on the

tradition. The candles are lit by starting with the right candle on the first night, then on the second night the candle to the left of the already lit candle is then lighted and so on; moving left to right. The purpose of the lights isn’t to light the house within, but to provide, “illumi-nation of the house without,” so that passersby who see it can be reminded of the holiday’s miracle. After each night of lighting

the candles a Jewish poem is sung called Ma’oz Tzur. Within the song are six stanzas; the first and last stanza in-volve themes of divine sal-vation while the middle four stan-zas men-tion events of persecu-

tion in Jewish history as well as praising God for survival and overlooking these trag-edies. Other than the lighting of candles, there are other ac-tivities such as playing with a dreidel. The dreidel is a four-sided spinning top, tradition-ally played by children. On each side of the dreidel there is an engraved abbreviation for the Hebrew words (Nes Gadol Haya Sham, meaning “A great miracle happened there”) which refers to the miracle that happened in the Beit Hamik-dash (Temple in Jerusalem). During the Hanukkah holi-day it is common to eat oil-based foods such as doughnuts and latkes (potato pancakes). It is also common to eat fried foods (preferably in oils such as olive oil) on Hanukkah, like bimuelos (fried dough balls)

and sufganiyot (round jelly-filled doughnuts). Hanukkah also has a food-related tradi-tion called Hanukkah Gelt. Hanukkah Gelt symbolizes money and good fortune in the form of chocolate. This tradi-tion dates back to an old east European custom of children giving small sums of money to teachers to show gratitude. Hanukkah Gelt is commonly given out to children during festivals and adds excitement

to the holiday. Hanukkah is a Jewish holi-day celebrated in many ways. The eight day holiday certainly brings excitement to traditions, especially for children. The in-tricate details of the lighting of the Hanukkah menorah is a great representation of dedica-tion. This along with all the fun activities and specific foods are a good combination for a truly illuminating miracle.

Photo via ShutterStock.com

tility and abundance due to its fish origins. Kazu in the name kazunoko means “number” and ko means “child.”, together they symbolize a wish to be gifted with numerous children in the New Year. The last Osechi dish struc-ture would be as seen in the third diagram on the bottom right. The dishes consist of appetizers (14), black beans (15), and grilled lobster (16). Other dishes that can be sub-stituted in Osechi boxes are daidai (Japanese bitter orange, meaning “from generation to generation” and symbolizes a wish for children in the New Year), konbu (a specific sea-weed that is associated with the word yorokobu and means “joy”), kuro-mame (black soy-beans, mame translating to “health” and symbolizes a wish for good health in the New Year), kohaku-namasu (means “red-white vegetable kuai” and is made of daikon, a carrot cut into thin strips, and pickled in sweetened vinegar with yuzu flavor), tai (red sea-bream and is associated with the Japanese word medetai which symbol-izes a promising event), zōni (soup of mochi rice cakes in a clear broth in eastern Japan, miso broth in western Japan),

ebi (skewered prawns cooked with sake and soy sauce, it symbolizes a wish for a long-life), and nishiki tamago (egg roulade with the egg separat-ed before cooking, the yellow symbolizing gold while the white symbolizing silver, both of these together symbolizing wealth and good fortune.) Another traditional meal served during Omisoka, sepa-rate from Osechi boxes, are Sashimi. Sashimi is a delicacy of Japan made of raw meat or fish sliced into thin pieces and often eaten with soy sauce. The dish’s name means “pierced body” and refers to the tradi-tional way of harvesting fish by skewering a fish with a sharp spike through their brain. This method allowed for the fish to efficiently be kept on ice for long periods of time. Omisoka is a sacred holiday to the Japanese people through many symbolistic traditions. These traditions are thorough-ly devised to ensure an abun-dance of fortune as well as good wishes. Not many people are aware of this amazing holiday and hopefully now can spread the fortune and traditions on for centuries to come in their own households, rather than just in Japan.

December 2018 16

FEATURESDECEMBER HOROSCOPES

By Ava PurcellEditor In Chief

Taurus (Apr.20 - Mar.20)

As a person who is very much in touch with emotions, a great holiday idea would be to host a Secret Santa event. Tau-rus, you’re the best gift giver around: innovative presents are right up your alley! Take a stroll down Target’s dollar section (Bullseye’s Playground) and pick out some budget-friendly options, such as a 2 pack of sea-sonal scented candles ($10) or a hat and scarf set ($10).

Aries (Mar.21 - Apr.19)

Aries, your adrenaline runs on competition. During this jolly

season, it can be difficult to find something to meet that

hunger. Try out a seasonal tra-dition of making gingerbread

houses! This will let your creativity flow and allow room for a contest. Find some kits as low as $8 at Walmart and get started on your masterpiece!

Gemini (May 21 - Jun.20)

Although Fredericksburg doesn’t offer much in the sense

of holiday light shows, as a Gemini you are very resource-

ful. Adventure into Towne Center any Thursday, Friday

or Saturday evening to watch a synchronized light and music show. Your artistic side would appreciate the effort put into such an organized event! Try out this free display this holi-

day season.

Cancer (Jun.21 - Jul.22)

Cancer, you are one of a kind when it comes to generosity.

Your heart will be spilling over with love this season: give

some of that to those in need! Donate presents, sing carols in a nursing home, help out at a local soup kitchen: anything would fit your compassionate

style and do some good for building up the holiday spirit.

Leo (Jul.23 - Aug.22)

A sign with a young soul, you are the epitome of childish

traditions. The giddiness that comes with being a Leo suits making reindeer food per-

fectly! This mixture can be created

with anything such as un-cooked oats, sugar cookie

sprinkles, and glitter. Spread it on the lawn

to make it flash and

attract Santa’s reindeer. Try the activity at a family gather-ing and have a ball making the

mix with younger relatives: save some for yourself to have

a blast as well!Virgo

(Aug.23 - Sep.22)Virgo, you tend to be more

practical and old school when it comes to life. The holiday season is no different, but

spice it up this year with some new traditions. Take the time to string some cranberries and

popcorn as a garland for the tree. Roast some chestnuts

in the fire: rinse them in cold water, score them with an X, place on aluminum foil, and

take off when the shell begins to peel. Instant delicious

tradition!

Libra(Sep.23 - Oct.22)

Libra, you are one who loves to test out new foods. During this festive season, don’t shy away from fun ethnic foods to spice

up your diet. Make coquito (Puerto Rican eggnog), natilla colombiano (Colombian cus-tard with brown sugar, shred-ded coconut, and cornstarch), lefse (a Scandinavian crepe).

Any of these cultural bites will indulge your curious side and add some flavor to the season.

Scorpio (Oct.23-Nov.21)

Scorpios are known to be impatient. Attempt to cor-

rect this bothersome trait by making some luminaries to

light your driveway for the holidays. A tradition

mostly in New Mexico, many

people will painstakingly fill decorated

paper bags with sand and lit candles to

line a driveway as opposed to the modern

habit of hanging some lights on the house. Soothe your

restless side by making a lumi-naria with a few friends!

Sagittarius (Nov.22 - Dec.21)

Tricks and pranks are your forte, Sagittarius. Enjoy these

endeavors by utilizing Elf on the Shelf: this is a story

that comes to life during the holiday season, where a stuffed

elf is placed throughout the house during the month of

December. It is said to watch over kids and report back to Santa each night on their be-havior. Fool your younger sib-lings by hiding this elf around the home every night. It’s your

season, so enjoy it!

Capricorn (Dec.22 - Jan.19)

As a Capricorn, you’re con-stantly keeping a serious face. Let out a laugh this season and marathon some classics: The Grinch, Frosty the Snowman, Rudolph the Rednosed Rein-deer, Home Alone, Miracle on 34th Street - the list could go on and on. Stay in for a night with some family and friends, make some hot chocolate, put

up your feet and relax.

Aquarius (Jan.20 - Feb.18)

Aquarius, you are a quirky soul. To match your imagina-tive side, look into starting a

family tradition on Christmas morning entitled ‘the Christ-

mas Pickle’. Legend has it, a poor man ate a pickle on

Christmas Eve, and it saved his life. In the southwest, this story is brought to life every year: whichever kid finds a

special pickle ornament hid-den on the tree, they get to

open the first present. What a fun tradition to bring to your

home this season!

Pisces (Feb.19 - Mar.20)

Pisces tend to be extremely superstitious. In order to bring

the snowstorm Spotsylvania students so badly need, it’s

time to put out all the stops. Some ideas include flush-

ing ice cubes down the toilet, wearing pajamas inside out, placing a spoon under your

pillow, putting a white crayon on every windowsill, and yell ‘snow day’ into the freezer. At

least one is bound to work, right?

Photo via www.vectorstock.com

December 201817

FEATURESDONT STUDY FOR MIDTERMS?

TRY THESE IDEAS, SUCCEED

By Mikah NelsonStaff Reporter

ZOMBSROYAL

By Brianna ButcherStaff Reporter Midterms are creeping around the corner and stu-dents feel stressed that they may do poorly or worse yet, fail. Midterms make up 7% of a student’s final grade and are on all the information they have learned since the first day of school. Studying is a good way of taking time to review infor-mation you may have forgot-ten over time. A lot of students don’t study because they sim-ply don’t want to or don’t have time. Studying can be really easy to do and is beneficial if done correctly. Here are some simple ways to study for mid-terms or any other test. Quizlet.com-Quizlet is an app and website that lets one make free f lashcards and all us-ers have to do is cre-ate an ac-count using their email and then make their own digi-tal flash-cards that can be accessed whenever needed. Don’t feel like creating cards? Search the subject and find flashcards other people have made. Quizlet also has seven study options which include Flashcards, Learn, Write, Spell, Test, Match, and a game called Gravity. This app is a good al-ternative way to study than the traditional flashcards. Study Groups- Studying with a group of people is a good way to prepare for midterms. When people study together infor-mation may be understand

more fully by all. Plan to have a group of people together who can study where it is quiet. The Central Rappahannock Re-gional Library offers “Meeting Rooms” that students can use for their study group for free. How do you use their rooms? Look up the website https://www.librarypoint.org and click on the tab labeled services then you will see Ask about a Meet-ing Rooms then click on that link. Fill out some informa-tion and submit. This does not mean a room is guaranteed so call ahead before your group’s arrival. Study Groups are very beneficial and can bring the fun into studying. KhanAcademy.org- Khan

Academy is a nonprofit organization whose goal is for students to have the tools to educate t h e m s e lve s . The website can be used to study or even learn new in-formation that you may have not under-stood when

your teacher taught you it. Go to the website Khan Academy, click on Learner, Start here, and it will bring up plenty of subjects that one can choose from. The program breaks down subjects by individual topics then each topic has lots of videos and ultimately a test . This website is almost like school away from school but not in a bad way. Retake Notes- If your habit is to not take notes in class, start now. If you do already, re-writing notes is a good way to memorize the information for

Interested in Fortnite and Io games? If the answer is yes, try a combination of both with a game called ZombsRoyale. Zombs is made by End Game and Yangcheng Liu and is for Android, IOS, and computers. ZombsRoyale like Fortnite is free but you can make buy gems which can be used to buy items or from chest. Zombs is also somewhat like Fortnite where one can play in a squad with one other person, or play solo. Players can customize their character with different items from a chest that can be bought with coins or gems. Players can also get them from using a battle pass that are awarded when one levels up through quest or winning games. There is of course a vari-ety of weaponry, but there is also a quality scale with gray,common, being weakest and red, mythic, being the

strongest. The higher the rar-ity of a weapon the stronger it hits. When playing the game players should make sure that their character’s health stays up and have a shield which can be found throughout the map. There are also varying game modes that the Devs make like VIP and Superpowers. The game creators also add new weapons to the game often. For instance, they added a grappling hook and grenade launcher not to long ago. So grab your friends, hop on the plane, and get a battle royale.

your test. If you write it down on the paper, highlight the im-portant parts and use colorful pens to label the top by color labeling. Doing this helps one memorize it more. Don’t feel like writing the information? Use the website www.Evernote.com and create a free account . Evernote allows one to take notes that can be highlighted, bolded, italicized and have pic-tures added. One can also or-ganize notes into sections and

include other topics. Midterms are stressful, but studying can help ease the stress by making one feel pre-pared. The night before mid-terms remember to get plenty of sleep , and in the morning before go over the notes and eat a healthy and good break-fast. Don’t forget to run the ex-tra mile. If a teacher is offering after school study time, do it. Good luck on midterms!

Photo via www.Shutter Stock.com

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A new game to try this holiday season.

YEARBOOKS ON SALE $80

WWW.YEARBOOKFOREVER.COM

December 2018 18

TURKEY DRIVE25 Turkeys were donated to SECA, along with six boxes of canned goods SCA collected

for this year’s turkey drive, sponsored by FCCLA.

Photo source www. docaitta.com

Photo courtesy of Mrs. Fiorello

FEATURES “I didn’t kill her! I didn’t. I killed that one woman! Please, I didn’t kill her!” Ted screamed, terror flooding him. He bit the hand of the one guards, shoul-dered the other, broke free, and ran for his life. “I’m being blamed for a mur-der I didn’t do, but they don’t believe that woman I killed,” he muttered to himself, dash-ing out of the hospital, the two doors banging behind him. He was running with Rayne following him, calling him back. He was now running to-ward the fire. He halted, too scared to move. He turned to see the Frozen Forest behind him . . . “Lily!” She looked up to see Chelsea dashing over to her. “Were you absent from school this past week?” Her twin was scaring her. She quickly got up. She walked to the door. “You stop me reading for that? Chelsea, I don’t know what’s gotten into you, but I found a needle with some thick, clear liquid. What was that? Tell me the truth.” She half-turned, glaring at her twin, who was looking at her feet, clearly worried. “It’s a last resort, Lily. Don’t tell Mom or Dad,” she whis-pered. “I would dream of it.” After her sis-ter sighed in relief, she added, “ I won’t dream of it because I got rid of it. It’s helpful if a neighbor’s dog only runs away with objects - no matter if it has a point - to dig it miles away.” “Why would you do that?” Chelsea asked. But, Lily was going to go outside to read some more.

By Katie StaffordStaff Reporter

THE POISONOUS SWITCH CHP 4 The next day, Lily was stopped by the bullies that had bullied Abby a week before. She saw that one of the girls wasn’t with them. “If you want to know, Lily, which I bet you do know, that Kody is dead. We’re not the only ones thinking you’re using your knowledge on poi-sons to hurt us one by one. The teachers are going to be watch-ing your movements from now,” said Jaya. “What do you mean?” Lily asked. “I wasn’t at school. I was sick.” “A likely story,” Jaya sneered.Lily opened her locker, took out a notebook, and slammed it. Before the sound of metal banging against skin died, she screamed in pain. Chelsea was walking to home-room alone when she heard a scream of pain. She turned to see her sister, tears brimming in her eyes, stumble forward with her right hand gripping her wrist. The left hand was bloody with trickles of blood raining onto the floor. She watched as Lily snarled something to the bullies, all were watching too calmly to be pretending to be concerned. Chelsea saw her twin stum-ble past her, muttering curses under her breath. A teacher

stopped Lily for swearing, but, seeing the blood, took her arm and dragged her to the nurse. She thought

she saw Lily’s eyes flash in ter-ror before the two of them turned the corner. She turned to attack the bullies, but they were too close to her English teacher. “I’ll get you for this, I swear. No one hurts my sister, and

gets away with it.” Chelsea, eyes narrowed in anger, walked into homeroom. “It’s okay, it was my fault. I tried telling Chelsea I did it, but she’s been acting like this is some poor murder mystery since Abby died.” Lily put her phone down. She was about to call her sister, when Chelsea dashed in with some pillows and a bowl of soup. “Listen . . . please . . .” Lily began, but Chelsea was out the door as quickly as she came in. She glared at her hand. It was stinging and still felt tender af-ter not being in school for an-

other two days. When she got to school the next day, she was horrified by what she saw at the front doors of the building . . . waiting for her.

“I’ll get you for this, I swear. No one hurts my

sister, and gets away with it.”

Deadly nightshade plays a role in the Poisonous Switch.

December 201819

December 2018 20

SPORTSGIRLS BASKETBALL: SIGHTS ON STATES

By Savannah Aversa Layout Editor The girls basketball season is starting off strong. This fall some of the members of the team competed in a fall league to help them improve their skills. Basketball has held con-ditioning all summer for the girls to practice and improve each individual player’s needs. Last week tryouts were held and their regular season is now off to a start. Bianca Atkinson, a senior on varsity, is the team captain and has played on var-sity for the last four years. “I think the team is looking very strong,” Atkinson said, “ we are definitely having to take a different approach but I think we have good play-ers and we have the oppor-

tunity to make a good run.” The team’s goal is to make it to the state championship and win the whole thing. “ I defi-nitely think we are looking for-ward to getting out there and getting to the championship hopefully and just proving that we are a great team,” Atkinson stated. Coach William Griffin is retiring this year, so win-ning a championship would be a fitting end to his career. “We are looking forward to play everyone,” said Atkinson, “especially our district rivals like Courtland, King George, and Eastern View, so hope-fully we win those games.” The team only lost one senior last year, but it was the only cen-ter they had on the varsity team.

Chancellor’s boys basket-ball team is off to a good start. With cuts made, senior George Aste details his pre-vious experience and hopes for the upcoming season. “I’ve played basketball since I was seven or eight years old,” states Aste. “I’ve played in middle school for my 7th and 8th grade year, I made JV my sophomore year, and then made it this year as a senior.” Aste is very passionate about the sport and looks forward to the fresh faces in terms of both team-mates and coaches. New hire coach Craig Booth has been a welcome addition to Chancel-lor’s men’s basketball team. “Last year we got a new coach, Craig Booth, and I do like him, I like him a lot. I think he’s very passionate about the game, and I’m excited for this season.” Aste explains that the team this year is solid, and is filled to the brim with talent. Eigh-teen boys have been selected for this 2018-19 season, with six of them being seniors! “We’re definitely senior heavy; we’ve got around six so it should be a big senior night,” Aste com-ments. The boys will be work-ing very hard throughout the season, with practices after school every day as well as on Saturday mornings. “You defi-

BOUNCING INTO BASKETBALL

SEASONBy Ava PurcellEditor-in-Chief

nitely get worked on, we’ve got to learn the defense so that’s more of a learning aspect of it. And then once we get to the middle of the season, we can do more scrimmages and playing.” The boys are out for success, looking to go as far as they can in higher-level games. Aste tasted some of the excitement during a previous year: “My sophomore year we went to the JV cham-pionship against Caroline, but sadly we lost.” The team will be on the lookout for some tough competition from both Eastern View and Caroline, but will surely come through with some Charger support! Aste is confi-dent in his growth in abilities for the upcoming year. He is used to playing point guard and shooter guard, but will be try-ing out power forward for the

upcoming season. “I think I’m going to do okay, I’m one of the tallest kids on the team, which isn’t saying much! But I should do alright, I’m very excited.” Chancellor is expecting some big things from the boys. Make sure to offer up your support by staying up to date on game times and cheering them on. You won’t regret it!

In October of 2018 I ac-complished my first ob-stacle course 5K. In July my dad had asked me if I wanted to go do a train race with him. I told him I’d have to get back to him after I looked into it first. The race had a Facebook page with some obstacles fea-tured. At first I was hesitant but it looks like a lot of fun so I told him that I took the plunge andtold my dad I would do it. I trained for months before the race. I found the best way for me to running a 5k was to jog as much as I could down the trail in my neighborhood. The first week I jogged about 3/4 of a mile before I needed a break. Every week my run-ning got better and faster. By race day I was able to run 2 miles without stopping. On race day we arrived at the race at

RACE OF A LIFETIME

about 8. The nerves kicked in. I watch the competitive Runner start the course. In 30 minutes the first competitor got to the last obstacle before the Fin-ish Line. I watched how they went about the obstacle so I knew what to do and I got to it. It was in time for the 9:30 a.m. heat to start the race. We went to the starting line and we were off. The first test we had to do was a wall you had to jump over. It was the easi-est obstacle the day. The rest of them were struggle. There was a 20-foot cargo net wall, a tire flip, tire pull, bigger walls to jump over, sandbag carry, and a hill with a Mudslide on the other side. My adrenaline was pumping and I made my way through the rest of the courseBy the end I only skipped two of the obstacles because my hurt shoulder. One hour and 10 minutes was my time. It

was so much fun and I am start-ing my training for another. For training, I suggest look-ing up some ways that you think would fit your routine best. Not every training regi-men works for everybody so find the one that suits you and stick with it. One place to look for routines is Pinterest they have many routines and there

are many that suit different type of people. One way is to do it like I had and just run fur-ther every day. Another way it to jog a certain amount of time each day and increase the time once it gets easier. It all de-pends on what works for you. If you want to do a race, train for it and have fun. Find a train-ing routine that works for you.

By Savannah Aversa Layout Editor

“I’ve played basketball since I was seven or

eight years old.”

December 201821

SPORTS

Though it may seem like roll-ing around and pinning some-one down on their shoulders, wrestling is much more compli-cated then what seems to meet the eye. Three rounds, two min-utes each, are in a match to get the most points and win. Three minutes made for quick decision thinking and going for the pin. Seniors Mike Krieder and Bailey Yelton have both spent a great amount of time on the Chancellor Charger wrestling team. Two hours after school every day are spent work-ing hard for their upcoming matches. Yelton has spent all four years at Chancellor wres-tling. Last year he got 16 pins satisfying him to do better this upcoming season. His sopho-more season was his favorite because he made it to states.

TACKLING THE NEW SEASON

He enjoys being on the team and hopes to further his wres-tling career when he goes col-lege. There is a wide variety of students who wrestle that both have a great experience in com-peting. Wrestling depends on weight class; some kids are fast, slow, weak, and strong. Krieder hopes to get a good start on the season and push past a bigger season from last year that left him unable to compete for over half the season due to an injury. Chancellor High’s wrestling team is experiencing a new change in their upcoming sea-son with a new coach, Dave Kreider who is ready to work hard. Coach Kreider is planning on using new techniques after studying countless wrestlers from various schools over the years, hoping he can apply it to the team to try something new.

By Kalee SainclairStaff Reportor

ELLE’S BELLSBy Christelle Temple Features Editor Happy Holidays! Tis the sea-son to cuddle by a fire, watch some holiday movies, and feast! Nothing is better than doing absolutely nothing but spending time with your family during this season. Although between midterm exams, shopping, travelling, and the many other things people have to do this crazy time of year, it’s so hard to find time for your-self, more importantly your fit-ness. For some quick workouts check out a site called 12minu-

teathlete.com. This site is full of great fast workouts that don’t involve any equipment, which is very helpful when you don’t have time or access to a gym. This workout includes:1. Squat Jumps: 212. Handstand (or just regular) push ups: 73. Burpee Tuck Jumps: 84. Side Lunges: 235. Burpee Tuck Jumps: 506. Diamond push ups: 11 Going through this list 3 times should take 12 minutes. If this seems too difficult, each exercise can be modified! But

don’t be scared to try it; putting forth the effort will be worth it in your lifelong health benefits. This exercise is a great at burn-er and works every muscle. For example doing burpees with everyrep you will work your arms, chest, quads, glutes, abs, and hamstrings.The Grinch Knows Where It’s At This holiday season throwing in some some healthy snacks in your holiday mix is never a crime. Any true Christmas en-thusiast has seen the magnifi-cent cartoon How The Grinch Stole Christmas based upon the book by Dr. Suess. These easy to make Grinch Grapes from 17 Healthy Holiday Treats are just too cute to pass up and anyone who loves fruit was love to make these by themselves to share and with company to munch on.Ingredients:1. A box of strawberries2. A bag of grapes3. A few bananasMaterials:1. A knife2. Some toothpicks3. Maybe a cutting block to helpSteps:1. Gather all your material2. Cut the top of the strawber-ries to give them a flat bottom getting rid of the leaves3. Then peel your bananas and cut them into about a centime-ter or 2 thick round pieces4. Pick grapes off the vines and put them to the side5. Once all the fruit is pre-pared, take a toothpick stick-ing a strawberry through it to the top. Then adda banana piece next on the flat side of the strawberry leaving room for the grape.6. Do that to each toothpick making as many as you want.7. Enjoy!

Indoor track is starting their season off with a bang! After a successful cross country sea-son, the indoor track team is looking to dominate the com-petition. “I think the team is coming in very strong into the season,” says junior Maya Cea-Lavin, a runner on the team for three years. “We’ve had amazing coaching staff over the past year and they’ve helped us with so much already. I think after our outstanding performance during cross country we’ll have a great season if we continue to work as hard as we have.” A new coaching staff was hired last year and has really helped the team grow in success. Each runner has their own

goal that they hope to accom-plish by the end of season. “I believe my biggest goal, as well as my coaches’ goal for me, is to run this indoor season injury free, as I’m coming back from a recent injury. I also would like to be conditioned and come back strong for outdoor season and possibly get some personal records,” said Cea-Lavin. She was injured during cross coun-try season and is coming back to indoor injury free. “Running has been something I’ve loved since I was little, and it’s something I’ve wanted topursue my whole life. I think that my passion and love for this sport is what motivates me to continue, especially with all the recurring injuries and hardships. I come back stron-ger and ready to compete,”

INDOOR TRACK OFF TO A RUNNING START

By Savannah Aversa Layout Editor

Cea-Lavin said. Running has always been her passion. “I compete in themid-distance or long distance events, such as the 800m, 1000m, 1600m, 3200m, 4x800, and 4x400.” This season is going to be great for our Chargers track and field team. Come out and support them at their meets!

This holiday season throwing in some

some healthy snacks in your holiday mix is

never a crime.

INDOOR TRACKCONT.

December 2018 22

SPORTSFIELD HOCKEY FOR THE WIN

By Kaitlyn Garvey Reporter “I’ve always thought that we could do it,” stated junior, Kylee Tuebner. “I remember one of the first days of con-ditioning saying, ‘there’s no doubt in my mind that we are going to go to States this year’.” The varsity girl’s field hockey team won the State Champi-onships at South County High on Saturday November 10 with a score 2 to 1. The Lightning Bolt was able to talk with four athletes from the team to give us insight on their thoughts about the game and season. “The only thing I could think about was that either East-ern View was about to win their first state championship [game] ever, or we’re going to win.” stated junior, Emma Ber-nard. “They were consistently tell-ing us to just play and [not] think about the outcome be-cause that could mess with our team mentality,” stated Sarah Stillabower. “In the middle of the game I [thought] ‘wow we have them!’ and I was just so excited.” “After the game, it was just such an overflowing feeling because I just felt so proud of them, (the team) and what we’ve accomplished through-out the year and how much we’ve grown as a team,” stated senior Naomi Nichols. Even though there were some predicaments this season such as games being cancelled and

the team having to move the location of its practices be-cause the field was flooded, the players still managed to play as if they had no complications whatsoever. When participat-ing in a team sport, players must learn to shift their focus from themselves to their team which helps them learn about themselves and grow as indi-viduals and it was no differ-ent with the girl’s field hockey team. “Personally I’m still a very awkward person, but it used to be a lot worse,” Stillabower said, “Our high standards have pushed me to become the best version of myself that I possi-bly could be.” “The sport has changed me as a whole person,” expressed Nichols. “I was going down the wrong path physically, men-tally and emotionally and field hockey from start to finish has put me in a place of well-being.” “It definitely makes you stronger mentally and physi-cally,” explained Bernard. “I’ve been playing field hockey since I was [around] three, so the sport itself has just always been a love for me,” but playing for Larkin and my mom is totally different.” According to the players, Coach Larkin is all about self improvement and growth and he pushes those values as much as, if not more than he pushes the game. “The coaches are amazing,” stated Tuebner. “Their high

standards are everything. You work to please them and then eventually you learn that you were growing yourself all the while.”On the day of the game, the players woke up with an inde-scribable feeling. They were nervous, but they felt good about the game they were about to play. The game itself was intense, despite this feel-ing however. “There were defi-nitely a few minutes of fear at the beginning of the game, but then Larkin pulled us in for a time out [with]in ten minutes of the first half and just looked at us and told us, ‘just play and do what you’ve done the whole season.’, and after that little pep talk we were on fire.” Stillabow-er said “The longest thirty minutes of my life was warming up,” stated Bernard. “At half time I was so ready to put the next thirty minutes away although I didn’t want my senior season to be over quite yet.” “I was just so ready because I knew that we deserved it and we worked hard for it,” added Stillabower. “I knew we were going to win when that second goal went in,” Bernard said. At one point during the game, the other team’s offense was threatening their win, but it didn’t last long. “Once we got it back we took it down their field and that really made me realize we are going to win this game because they can’t even

get it into our circle,” Nichols commented. Stillabower said she didn’t have anything running through her mind except for the victory when the game was over. “I knew that we finally won and that was all we worked for,” she remarked. After the game it was an emotional time for the team and not only because the girl’s had won the championships. Coach Larkin pulled the girls aside and congratulated them on their victory. He then told them that he would not return for the next season because he will be retiring from coaching field hockey. The win and the announcement of Coach Lar-kin’s retirement made it a bit-tersweet moment for the play-ers, knowing that he has been coaching for 25 years. After the fact, the girls cel-ebrated with a trip to Outback Steakhouse and made their way back home. These girls had an wild, eventful field hockey sea-son and they credit that to their coaches and supporters. While those people definitely had a huge part to play in the victo-ries this season, these players worked hard and earned the title of State Champions for themselves. Tuebner summed it up by stating, “I played my heart out, [and] I know that ev-erybody else did.”

EMMA BERNARD: PLAYER OF THE YEARBy Taylor Sullivan Sports Editor “I was surprised since there is a lot of talent on JM and Eastern View, but it was obviously very exciting, and I was happy I got it,” states Emma Bernard, junior and varsity field hockey athlete. Bernard was shocked when she received player of the year award this year. Bernard plays center mid and

has scored approximatelntly 30 goals for the Chargers. Her favor-ite thing about Charger hockey is, the team itself. “I love being around them ev-eryday, even though it might suck sometimes with all of the effort we put in,” states Bernard. “It’s obviously paying off in the long run, plus we only have four more wins left till we can show just

how hard we’ve been working as a team.” Bernard is pretty excited for her senior year, but knows that she has to keep strong as the Charger hockey team is losing a lot of key starting players. She knows, how-ever, that the freshman are put-ting in a lot of work to make the team better. Bernard feels that if the team keeps working hard like

they did this season, she has no doubt that the team will be just as good as they were this year. Bernard is excited to see every-one’s skills improve in the off-season and during the summer. She was also invited to go to Eu-rope this summer to look at col-leges for two weeks, and practice with college teams/coaches.

December 201823

SPORTSFIELD HOCKEY WINS STATES

Katie Hinegardener and Kaitlyn Bestick wait to leave for states.

The Field Hockey team board the bus.

Senior Brittany Anderson carries the ball up the field.

Photo courtesy of Chancellor Parent

Photo courtesy of Rebecca Waurio

Emma Bernard, Player of the Year, fights for the ball in the state final game.

Photo courtesy of Rebecca Waurio

The newly born state champions celebrate after the state final game.

Photo courtesy of Rebecca Waurio

Charger Chaos helps the hockey team celebrate after the game.Photo courtesy of Charger parent

The Chargers line up to get annouced before the state semi game.

December 2018 24

VOLU

ME 31 IS

SUE 4