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Last week proved to us that college football can be very exciting, and who knows what this week will bring?
-Blake Holmes
Friday, October 25, 2013
Upset Saturday a Big Factor?
Last week the NCAA Football world was shocked as four big teams went down to unexpected opponents. According to The Examiner, the LSU Tigers went down on a field goal as time ran out against the Ole Miss Rebels, 27-24. Louisville was beaten by a field goal against UCF (Central Florida), 38-35. The Florida State Seminoles were expected to keep close, but no one expected them to beat the Clemson Tigers, 51-14! Auburn took down Texas A&M and Johnny Manziel, at Kyle Stadium, 45-41. Stanford took down the UCLA Rebels, 24-10, and had a huge catch by Kodi Whitfield, a one-handed grab in the end zone for the first touchdown.
The Vanderbilt Commodores beat the Georgia Bulldogs in a game nobody expected, as the score was 31-27. The Tennessee Volunteers beat the South Carolina Gamecocks by a field goal as time expired, thanks to a deep pass play by Marquez North.
Last week proved to us that college football can be very exciting, and who knows what this week will bring?
Last week proved to us that college football can be very exciting, and who knows what this week will bring?
NWCA All-Star Classic
On Saturday, November 2nd at George Mason University is the 48th Annual NWCA All-Star Classic. The All-Star Classic will feature the nation’s best college wrestlers. The headline of the night for the event will feature 2X NCAA Champion Logan Stieber vs. NCAA Champion Kendric Maple at 149 lbs. Stieber, who was a four-time state champion in high school has had an amazing record of 184 wins and only one loss. His only loss was to three-time NCAA Finalist (one-time champion) David Taylor. Ohio State’s Logan Stieber (a redshirt junior) has been completely dominant in college. He holds a 60-2 record and has won two consecutive national titles. He most recently defeated Iowa’s Tony Ramos 7-4 in the NCAA Finals. Stieber's opponent will be Oklahoma’s Kendric Maple. Maple won two Kansas State Championships in high school. Maple (a redshirt senior) has an amazing 102 wins and only 18 losses!. He is a two-time NCAA All-American, and most recently an NCAA National Champion. He defeated Edinboro’s Mitchell Port 4-3 in the NCAA Finals.
I am extremely excited to watch this matchup in the NWCA All-Star Classic. This will be the only time these wrestlers will face one another this season, because Logan Stieber bumped up a weight class, so that he could wrestle Kendric Maple.
-Jacob Wynn
I am extremely excited to watch this matchup in the NWCA All-Star Classic. This will be the only time these wrestlers will face one another this season, because Logan Stieber bumped up a weight class, so that he could wrestle Kendric Maple.
-Jacob Wynn
Bridge Day Miracles
On Saturday, October 19, the New River Gorge Bridge in West Virginia hosted its 34th annual “Bridge Day.” The New River Gorge Bridge is the second largest single-arch bridge, and it is held 876 feet in the air. The festival started at 7:00 in the morning, and ended at 5:00 in the afternoon. There were BASE Jumpers who would jump off of the bridge with parachutes; there were rappels that would hang people below the bridge; and there were zip lines. This is the only time of the year that the interstate is closed for people to walk and look out from the bridge, and the event was truly an unforgettable experience.
BASE jumping stands for Building, Antenna, Span (which includes bridges), and Earth. These are all places from which BASE Jumpers can leap with their parachutes. Since the bridge was opened in 1979, it has been a popular place for BASE Jumpers. One of them includes Lonnie Bissonette, who has been base jumping for 19 years; what makes him unique is the fact that he is in a wheelchair.
Bissonette became paralyzed from the waist down during a past jump when his parachute became tangled and wouldn’t open. Lonnie had BASE jumped many times before (He was injured on his 1,100th jump!), but nothing like this had ever happened before. Still yet, being paralyzed didn’t stop Lonnie. He had to have a custom wheelchair built so he could still jump, and at Bridge Day, he made a safe landing.
Bissonette's story shows anything can be possible. You should never give up on your dreams no matter how impossible they might seem. Lonnie Bissonette had a large amount of courage and determination, and we can all learn from his story.
-Dylan Crigger
BASE jumping stands for Building, Antenna, Span (which includes bridges), and Earth. These are all places from which BASE Jumpers can leap with their parachutes. Since the bridge was opened in 1979, it has been a popular place for BASE Jumpers. One of them includes Lonnie Bissonette, who has been base jumping for 19 years; what makes him unique is the fact that he is in a wheelchair.
Bissonette became paralyzed from the waist down during a past jump when his parachute became tangled and wouldn’t open. Lonnie had BASE jumped many times before (He was injured on his 1,100th jump!), but nothing like this had ever happened before. Still yet, being paralyzed didn’t stop Lonnie. He had to have a custom wheelchair built so he could still jump, and at Bridge Day, he made a safe landing.
Bissonette's story shows anything can be possible. You should never give up on your dreams no matter how impossible they might seem. Lonnie Bissonette had a large amount of courage and determination, and we can all learn from his story.
-Dylan Crigger
Nobel Prize Winners 2013
The Nobel Prize Awards for this year were recently awarded. Almost every day last week, an award was announced in each of the following categories: Physics, Chemistry, Physiology/ Medicine, Literature, Peace, and Economic Sciences. According to NobelPrize.org, the award for Medicine was given out on Monday; it went to James E. Rothman, Randy W. Schekman, and Thomas C Sϋdhof, “for [their] discoveries of machinery regulating vesicle traffic, a major transport system in our cells.” The award in Physics, given out on Tuesday, went to Peter Higgs and FranҫoisEnglert, for theorizing the existence of the Higgs-Boson, often referred to as the “god-particle.” Chemistry, announced on Wednesday, was given to Martin Karplus, Michael Levitt, and ARichWarshel, “for development of multiscale models for complex chemical systems.” Peace, given on Friday, went to the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW), “for its extensive efforts to eliminate chemical weapons.” Economic Sciences was announced last Monday, and it went to Eugene F. Farna, Lars Peter Hansen, and Robert J. Shiller, “for their empirical analysis of asset prices.” Then Literature, which had no preset defined date, went to Alice Munro, who was called the “Master of the Contemporary Short Story.” Congratulations to all the winners, as the Nobel Prizes are some of the most prestigious awards on Earth. The winners will be given their official awards in December.
-Kevin Brown
-Kevin Brown
Tuesday, October 22, 2013
Happy, Happy, Happy, Jack! and Other Wise Words from the Duck Commanders
Nearly all Americans have heard of one of the most famous reality shows of the year, Duck Dynasty. It’s actually really hard to not know of the show, from mentions on radio shows, to countless merchandise at Wal-Mart. But how did Duck Dynasty get popular in the first place? And it’s not even only popular in the south, it’s a country-wide craze, too!
But if you ain’t got time to watch it Jack, well, you should. The show features the lives of the Duck Commanders, or the Robertsons, doing what they do best: duck calls and emphasis on the family. Unlike other reality shows, like Keeping Up with the Kardashians or Jersey Shore, which show rich city life, Duck Dynasty obviously shows a more "southern hospitality" theme. A noticeable part of the stars are, compared to the clean-cut and clean-shaven males of MTV, the male Robertsons, who grow their hair and beards out, very similar to southern rock band ZZ Top.
Duck Dynasty also has a major part in culture. Various jokes and sayings from the show have pervaded modern conversation, and the merchandise is telling something as well. If you walked into Wal-Mart and got a dollar for every piece of Duck Commander merchandise you saw, you could buy all of it in less than five minutes, no exaggeration.
-Catherine Cober
But if you ain’t got time to watch it Jack, well, you should. The show features the lives of the Duck Commanders, or the Robertsons, doing what they do best: duck calls and emphasis on the family. Unlike other reality shows, like Keeping Up with the Kardashians or Jersey Shore, which show rich city life, Duck Dynasty obviously shows a more "southern hospitality" theme. A noticeable part of the stars are, compared to the clean-cut and clean-shaven males of MTV, the male Robertsons, who grow their hair and beards out, very similar to southern rock band ZZ Top.
Duck Dynasty also has a major part in culture. Various jokes and sayings from the show have pervaded modern conversation, and the merchandise is telling something as well. If you walked into Wal-Mart and got a dollar for every piece of Duck Commander merchandise you saw, you could buy all of it in less than five minutes, no exaggeration.
-Catherine Cober
Sunday Football Recap: Geno, Tebow, and the Un-Luck-y Broncos
What a Sunday in the NFL. Geno Smith smothered Tom Brady, Rams’ executives talked Tebow after a Bradford injury, and Andrew Luck squeezed past his predecessor. Geno easily outplayed "Old Man" Brady, posting 265 total offense with 2 TDs and one interception, compared to Brady's 228 yards with one TD and one interception. In the end, Jets kicker Nick Folk missed a 56-yard field goal in overtime, but got a second chance after a roughing the kicker penalty. The New York Jets beat the Patriots 30-27 after Folk's game-winner. Not far out west, Sam Bradford of the Rams tore his ACL, leaving the St. Louis executives praying for answers. After time to discuss, it was reported that Tim Tebow's name (yes, you read it correctly, Tim Tebow) was mentioned in discussion. Tebow Time anyone? Going back to Indianapolis, Peyton Manning came home to stay undefeated, only to find a youngster waiting to ruin his night. Andrew Luck wasn't letting the former franchise leader leave his house with a win!
-Isaiah Addair
Undefeated Teams Down to One
There is only one team left undefeated in the NFL this week. In Week 4, there were three teams undefeated: the Denver Broncos, Kansas City Chiefs, and the New Orleans Saints. Last weekend, the Denver Broncos lost to the Colts 39 to 33. Then the week before last weekend the Saints lost to the Patriots, 30 to 27. So the Broncos are now (6,1) and the Saints are now (5,1). There is only one team left undefeated-- the Kansas City Chiefs. Their win-lose record is (7,0). They won this weekend against the Houston Texans. The score was close, 17 to 16, but it was a great win. Let’s see if the Chiefs can go undefeated this season; keep up the great work, guys.
-David Pierce
Rookie of the Year, or One-Year Wonder?
Through six weeks of play, the AFC and NFC Rookies of the Year are fairly unclear. For the NFC, two possible offensive picks would be the tackle from Philadelphia, Lane Johnson, or the tailback for The Pack, Eddie Lacy. Lacy has posted a 100-yard game, yet Lane Johnson has anchored an offensive line that blocks for two of the top fantasy football players in the NFL. Defensively, the NFC is home to Alec Ogletree of the Rams and Tyrann “The Honeybadger” Mathieu. Alec Ogletree has dominated the opposing teams at the linebacker position, almost as well as Tyrann Mathieu has defended both the pass and run. Through six weeks of play, the Honeybadger has one forced fumble, two sacks, and one interception in his home
town of New Orleans.
In the AFC, there are three possible offensive choices. Quarterbacks of the Jets and Bills, Geno Smith and EJ Manuel, respectively, have impacted the teams that drafted them. Leading these terrible teams to decent starts in the 2013 season, these guys have to be in consideration. Also, Gio Bernard, tailback of the Bengals, has provided the spark that Cinci has lacked since Cedric Benson’s prime. On the other side of the ball, Barkevious Mingo and Dion Jordan terrorize the offensive lines. Mingo has already notched three sacks, and at this pace he’ll finish with an astounding eight as just a rookie. In the other corner is a tall, stout Jordan that crushes the quarterback before he even goes through his progressions. Jordan always finds a way to get to the ball.
In the AFC, there are three possible offensive choices. Quarterbacks of the Jets and Bills, Geno Smith and EJ Manuel, respectively, have impacted the teams that drafted them. Leading these terrible teams to decent starts in the 2013 season, these guys have to be in consideration. Also, Gio Bernard, tailback of the Bengals, has provided the spark that Cinci has lacked since Cedric Benson’s prime. On the other side of the ball, Barkevious Mingo and Dion Jordan terrorize the offensive lines. Mingo has already notched three sacks, and at this pace he’ll finish with an astounding eight as just a rookie. In the other corner is a tall, stout Jordan that crushes the quarterback before he even goes through his progressions. Jordan always finds a way to get to the ball.
-Isaiah Addair
Monday, October 21, 2013
It’s the time of the season (Zombies reference) for the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame! The official nominees are confirmed to be in the famous Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
Famous nominees include grunge band Nirvana ("Smells Like Teen Spirit"), psychedelic rock band Deep Purple ("Smoke on the Water"), glam rock KISS ("Rock n Roll All Nite"), pop rock Cat Stevens ("Year of the Cat"), prog rock Yes ("Roundabout"), and British Invasion band The Zombies ("She’s Not There"), and even pop artist Chic.
For years, however, the RRHoF has received much criticism for some choices of nominees. Last year, Heart and Rush (hard rock bands) got in without any complaints. But, the fact that pop artists like Chic can get in the Hall of Fame enrages many die-hard rockers.
Famous nominees include grunge band Nirvana ("Smells Like Teen Spirit"), psychedelic rock band Deep Purple ("Smoke on the Water"), glam rock KISS ("Rock n Roll All Nite"), pop rock Cat Stevens ("Year of the Cat"), prog rock Yes ("Roundabout"), and British Invasion band The Zombies ("She’s Not There"), and even pop artist Chic.
For years, however, the RRHoF has received much criticism for some choices of nominees. Last year, Heart and Rush (hard rock bands) got in without any complaints. But, the fact that pop artists like Chic can get in the Hall of Fame enrages many die-hard rockers.
A Visit with Alumni
On Wednesday, October 16, 2013, newspaper staff member Isaiah Addair interviewed Rural Retreat High School graduate Jared Mullins.
Addair: What year did you graduate?
Mullins: Fine ’99!
Addair: That was an awesome year; the turn of the century. What has your life handed you since then, job-wise and such?
Mullins: A few customer service jobs. Landed the good one I’m in now ten years ago, support team lead working my way up from entry level. I also have a beautiful wife and two awesome kids.
Addair: How do you like your current job?
Mullins: I love it.
Addair: Very good. How do you spend your spare time?
Mullins: I spend my spare time coaching sports for my kids and playing Airsoft with my family.
Addair: As a coach, would you rank yourself among elite coaches like Bill Walsh, Vince Lombardi, and John Madden?
Mullins: Probably a tad below. I have three championships, so I have some work to do.
Addair: Okay, thanks Mr. Mullins.
Mullins: No problem.
Addair: What year did you graduate?
Mullins: Fine ’99!
Addair: That was an awesome year; the turn of the century. What has your life handed you since then, job-wise and such?
Mullins: A few customer service jobs. Landed the good one I’m in now ten years ago, support team lead working my way up from entry level. I also have a beautiful wife and two awesome kids.
Addair: How do you like your current job?
Mullins: I love it.
Addair: Very good. How do you spend your spare time?
Mullins: I spend my spare time coaching sports for my kids and playing Airsoft with my family.
Addair: As a coach, would you rank yourself among elite coaches like Bill Walsh, Vince Lombardi, and John Madden?
Mullins: Probably a tad below. I have three championships, so I have some work to do.
Addair: Okay, thanks Mr. Mullins.
Mullins: No problem.
-Isaiah Addair
Madden 25 or NCAA College Football?
Over the summer, Madden 25 and the NCAA College Football games were released. So, which one do you choose? After talking with sophomore David Pierce, he said that he would rather have Madden 25. He said that it is more realistic, and you feel like you are actually on the field. He also said “you can play with all your favorite players, unlike NCAA, where you have to pick and choose your favorite players.”
Sophomore Isaiah Addair said that “on the Road to Glory feature on NCAA Football, you are given the option to what college you want to attend. While on Dynasty on NCAA, you are given the ability to create a team to play with, unlike Madden 25.
In conclusion, there are many pros and cons about both games. Isaiah and David both said that they like both games. They also said that you should go out and buy one of these games today.
Sophomore Isaiah Addair said that “on the Road to Glory feature on NCAA Football, you are given the option to what college you want to attend. While on Dynasty on NCAA, you are given the ability to create a team to play with, unlike Madden 25.
In conclusion, there are many pros and cons about both games. Isaiah and David both said that they like both games. They also said that you should go out and buy one of these games today.
-Jacob Wynn
Cross-Country Meet in Abingdon
On Wednesday, October 16, the cross country team went to a meet in Abingdon. The team had become familiar with the course, because it was also the course for the Sugar Hollow meet. Despite being at such a large meet, the cross country team fared well. Mathew Farmer was unable to attend the meet, and even without him, the team ran well. Many runners shaved away whole minutes of their previous times. Jacob Wynn ran the course in about 17 minutes, which has been his best time all year. Brian Crockett lowered his time and ran the race in 18 minutes.
There were some fallbacks, however. Jacob Wynn and Cameron Bear both forgot their uniforms, and had to make last minute changes. Both still ran, but they had to scrounge up something to wear. Also, Cameron Bear was only a minute slower than his previous time at the Sugar Hollow meet. Over all, the team ran well and is expected to improve even more as the season continues.
There were some fallbacks, however. Jacob Wynn and Cameron Bear both forgot their uniforms, and had to make last minute changes. Both still ran, but they had to scrounge up something to wear. Also, Cameron Bear was only a minute slower than his previous time at the Sugar Hollow meet. Over all, the team ran well and is expected to improve even more as the season continues.
-Dylan Crigger
Pokémon's Big Bang
Last Saturday was a big day for gaming; the newest generation of Pokémon games was released, Pokémon X and Pokémon Y, respectively. These games were released only for the 3DS, which was a big gamble for Nintendo, as Pokémon is one of the biggest franchises in video gaming, and not all their fans may have had a 3DS. That announcement really upset me, as I did not have a 3DS. I eventually found one I could borrow, and man, was it a good decision.
The first big change you’ll notice immediately about the game is diagonal movement. Now characters aren’t just defined by directional arrows to determine where they go. It’s a big change, and they integrated it perfectly. The second is the character customization. Players are now allowed to express themselves and make their characters reflect, on a minor level, who they are to other players. And a third, really big change is the addition of a new type of Pokémon: the fairy-type. The fairy-type is super-effective against dragon-types and dark-types, and weak against steel-types and poison-types. The story is just like any other story in the Pokémon world: an evil team is misusing Pokémon; you and your friends destroy their operation. Nintendo tried to emphasize friendship through four friends your character meets and travels with throughout the game.
With the story in mind, it is incredible just how little involvement of the evil team, Team Flare, you see within the first hours of the game. Really, I had a full team of level 30’s when I reached the 3rd gym leader, and I had only heard of Team Flare in-game about twice. This progression, I find, is way better than any other Pokémon game. I felt more connected with my team, and I’ve mostly used the same few Pokémon as I had in the beginning. That being said, two new features to connect you and your Pokémon are the Pokémon Amie, and the Super Training. Pokémon Amie allows you to play, pet, feed, and just be around your Pokémon, getting them to love and trust you more. The Super Training allows you to train with your Pokémon to “bring them to their highest potential.” There are secret aspects within the programming of the Pokémon called EV’s, and the Super Training allows you to bring out their EV’s and make them stronger than one without their EV’s.
Another change is the lack of legendary Pokémon native to the region you travel through, the Kalos region. In fact, there aren’t that many new Pokémon either, only 69! But I find this a necessary change, as there would be too many unnecessary "legendaries” that served no purpose other than to just be there. With this, the two games begin to focus on an “ultimate weapon” powered by the Pokémon on the covers. I have the Y version, so my legendary Pokémon was Yveltal, the Destruction Pokémon. No spoilers, but you do run into Yveltal near the end of the main story.
I finished the main story, or defeated the Pokémon League Champion, in about 29 hours. I’ve seen reports about people beating it in less time, which is understandable. The new games were way easier than past games, with increasing difficulty. I was always 7 levels higher than the wild Pokémon or the trainer’s Pokémon of that area.
With all this, Pokémon Y is one of my favorite games. I find the pacing nice, story mediocre, new Pokémon amazing; I like just about everything in this game. I would give these games a 9.5/10.
The first big change you’ll notice immediately about the game is diagonal movement. Now characters aren’t just defined by directional arrows to determine where they go. It’s a big change, and they integrated it perfectly. The second is the character customization. Players are now allowed to express themselves and make their characters reflect, on a minor level, who they are to other players. And a third, really big change is the addition of a new type of Pokémon: the fairy-type. The fairy-type is super-effective against dragon-types and dark-types, and weak against steel-types and poison-types. The story is just like any other story in the Pokémon world: an evil team is misusing Pokémon; you and your friends destroy their operation. Nintendo tried to emphasize friendship through four friends your character meets and travels with throughout the game.
With the story in mind, it is incredible just how little involvement of the evil team, Team Flare, you see within the first hours of the game. Really, I had a full team of level 30’s when I reached the 3rd gym leader, and I had only heard of Team Flare in-game about twice. This progression, I find, is way better than any other Pokémon game. I felt more connected with my team, and I’ve mostly used the same few Pokémon as I had in the beginning. That being said, two new features to connect you and your Pokémon are the Pokémon Amie, and the Super Training. Pokémon Amie allows you to play, pet, feed, and just be around your Pokémon, getting them to love and trust you more. The Super Training allows you to train with your Pokémon to “bring them to their highest potential.” There are secret aspects within the programming of the Pokémon called EV’s, and the Super Training allows you to bring out their EV’s and make them stronger than one without their EV’s.
Another change is the lack of legendary Pokémon native to the region you travel through, the Kalos region. In fact, there aren’t that many new Pokémon either, only 69! But I find this a necessary change, as there would be too many unnecessary "legendaries” that served no purpose other than to just be there. With this, the two games begin to focus on an “ultimate weapon” powered by the Pokémon on the covers. I have the Y version, so my legendary Pokémon was Yveltal, the Destruction Pokémon. No spoilers, but you do run into Yveltal near the end of the main story.
I finished the main story, or defeated the Pokémon League Champion, in about 29 hours. I’ve seen reports about people beating it in less time, which is understandable. The new games were way easier than past games, with increasing difficulty. I was always 7 levels higher than the wild Pokémon or the trainer’s Pokémon of that area.
With all this, Pokémon Y is one of my favorite games. I find the pacing nice, story mediocre, new Pokémon amazing; I like just about everything in this game. I would give these games a 9.5/10.
-Kevin Brown
Colts Don't Care About Peyton Manning Anymore?
That’s right: the Colts don’t care about the one-time Super Bowl champ and four-time MVP (all this under them). According to SB Nation, the team doesn't even care about the guy who got them where they are today-- Peyton Manning. Colts owner Jim Irsay says that everything worked out for Manning and that he now has a team that cares for him. Manning was released from the Colts because of a neck injury, which served as a good time for the Colts to get Manning out and gets someone new in: Andrew Luck. Also, Irsay said this is what Manning wanted- a chance to get another possible Super Bowl win on another team. Well, Peyton, everyone thinks you deserve a little respect from your old team, but Andrew might need "Luck" on his side for a win.
-David Pierce
Tuesday, October 15, 2013
Clemson Tigers v. Florida State Seminoles
This Saturday the unbeaten number three-team in college football, the Clemson Tigers, will face the unbeaten number-five team, the Florida State Seminoles.
This game will be one of the biggest games played this season, as both teams have hopes of making it to the National Championship game in February. Those hopes will be lost for the losing team.
Both teams are led by Heisman-hopeful quarterbacks. Tigers senior Tajh Boyd has thrown for almost 2,000 yards in only six games. Florida State is led by freshman Jameis Winston, who was the number-one quarterback in the nation coming out of high school. Winston has thrown for almost 1,500 yards this season.
I am very excited for this match-up, and am anxious to see which quarterback will lead his team to victory, and hopefully, a national championship. This game will be aired on ABC Saturday night at 8, so don’t miss your chance to see two great quarterbacks give everything they have!
-Jacob Wynn
This game will be one of the biggest games played this season, as both teams have hopes of making it to the National Championship game in February. Those hopes will be lost for the losing team.
Both teams are led by Heisman-hopeful quarterbacks. Tigers senior Tajh Boyd has thrown for almost 2,000 yards in only six games. Florida State is led by freshman Jameis Winston, who was the number-one quarterback in the nation coming out of high school. Winston has thrown for almost 1,500 yards this season.
I am very excited for this match-up, and am anxious to see which quarterback will lead his team to victory, and hopefully, a national championship. This game will be aired on ABC Saturday night at 8, so don’t miss your chance to see two great quarterbacks give everything they have!
-Jacob Wynn
Sources: ESPN, The St. Augustine Record
AntDogg or Football Broadus?
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-Isaiah Addair
MLB World Series Approaches
It’s October, and that means the World Series is coming up, as we are in the Championship Series of the NL and the AL. The ALCS contains two very good teams, the Boston Red Sox and the Detroit Tigers. The NLCS contains two also great teams, the St. Louis Cardinals and the Los Angeles Dodgers. I predict a St. Louis Cardinals and Boston Red Sox World Series, which the Cardinals will repeat as the World Series Champions. This team is very well balanced and it just too much for the Red Sox to beat. My prediction is for the Cardinals to repeat in seven games, as the Red Sox will try to keep up, but fall short in Game 7.
-Blake Holmes
Super 32 Wrestling
There are many reasons why 1,500 wrestlers come to the Super 32 every year. Reason number one: wrestlers have to be qualified to go, so that makes the Super 32 the best in the state vs. the best in the state. Reason number two: there are going to be college coaches and college recruiters at the Super 32. So, that gives wrestlers the chance to get their names “out there.” Reason number three: wrestlers can become nationally ranked, if they do well. Reason number four: if you win the Super 32, you win a championship belt! The final reason why people come to the Super 32 is because they love wrestling. It's great to see wrestlers competing in the off season. It shows college recruiters that they love to compete, train, wrestle, and most importantly WIN!
-Jacob Wynn
RR Wrestlers Compete in Carroll County Open Tournament
Three Rural Retreat wrestlers competed in the Carroll County Wrestling Tournament last Saturday (October 5). The wrestlers who competed in the high school division were Trey Boyd and Jacob Wynn. The only middle school wrestler who competed was Josh Wynn. Both Josh Wynn and Jacob Wynn medaled in this tournament, each earning 2nd place. Josh Wynn went 2-1 in this tournament, while his brother Jacob Wynn went 3-1, before suffering a 5-4 loss in the finals. Trey Boyd went 1-2 in this tournament.
All Rural Retreat wrestlers will continue to get better this off-season, and continue to work towards winning a team state championship.
All Rural Retreat wrestlers will continue to get better this off-season, and continue to work towards winning a team state championship.
-Jacob Wynn
Band Competition at George Wythe
“I think that the band has all the right tools to succeed this evening. It will be up to them on whether or not they succeed. Either way, I am very proud of the work and dedication of these young people,” said Mr. English, director of the Rural Retreat Middle/High School Band.
The Rural Retreat Marching Band participated in the George Wythe Band Festival this past Saturday.
The band received in class A:
2nd in General Effect
2nd in Percussion
3rd in Marching
3rd in Music
3rd in Guard
Overall 3rd place in Class A
The Rural Retreat Marching Band received an overall rating of Excellent.
-Jessie Ritz
The Rural Retreat Marching Band participated in the George Wythe Band Festival this past Saturday.
The band received in class A:
2nd in General Effect
2nd in Percussion
3rd in Marching
3rd in Music
3rd in Guard
Overall 3rd place in Class A
The Rural Retreat Marching Band received an overall rating of Excellent.
-Jessie Ritz
Tragedy Strikes for All-Pro Tailback
On Thursday, October 10th, 2013, Minnesota Vikings tailback Adrian Peterson received word that his two-year-old son was in critical condition in San Diego, California. According to NFL News, the young boy was severely beaten by his mother's boyfriend, causing brain damage and other injuries that later forced doctors into believing that pulling the plug was the best idea. Peterson left practice to fly out west, but returned the next morning only to receive news later Friday evening about the doctors’ decision. As of now, the aggressor has been arrested and is awaiting court. As a surprise to no one, Peterson still showed up in a big way for a struggling Viking offense in the week 6 game against the Carolina Panthers, carrying the ball 10 times for a stunning 62 yards (6.2 yards/carry). Peterson is no stranger to tragedy, however. His brother sadly passed the day before the Pro Football Combine the year he entered the NFL Draft. On the topic, Adrian Peterson told reporters via SMS, “My brother passed the night before the combine and I decided to go through with it, The same reason why I will play this week. You may ask why? God wants good to come from it ... We mourn and grieve but heaven had the baddest welcoming party for my son. That knowledge gives me peace. I'm still hurt and feel the pain of life, but I'm able to function because of the peace and joy of knowing my loved ones are in a much better place.”
-Isaiah Addair
Indians Beat Warriors at their Homecoming
Friday, October 11, the Rural Retreat Indians went to Chilhowie to face the Warriors at their own homecoming. The Warriors were picked to receive the ball in the first quarter, and they got started at their 35 yard line. Chilhowie moved and got a first down, but Rural Retreat kept the Warriors from making any more progress. Only a few minutes into the game, the ball was turned over to the Indians. By that time the Indians made it around midfield, and later, they were only 20 yards from the end zone. The quarter was nearly over, and when the buzzer sounded, Rural Retreat was only five yards away from a touchdown.
Luckily, in the second quarter, the Indians got the ball, and were able to resume where they had left off. Rural Retreat scored the first touchdown of the game; however, they didn’t score the extra point. When the Indians punted the ball to Chilhowie, they ran a 65-yard touchdown and score the extra field goal, putting the Warriors ahead by only one point. Chilhowie kicks back to Rural Retreat and they get to start at the 40-yard line. Not much progress was made, and the ball was given back to the Warriors. Later, when the Indians got the ball again, the Indians made a good run that stopped at about midfield. When there was only a minute and a half left in the quarter, the Indians were fourth down and four yards from a first down. They threw a deep pass, scored another touchdown, and got a two-point conversion. There were only 23 seconds left when Chilhowie got the ball, and the quarter ended with a score of 7 to 14, Indians in the lead.
Rural Retreat received the ball far back in the field in the third quarter. The Indians didn’t even make it to midfield before having to give the ball back to Chilhowie. Chilhowie scored a touchdown with seven minutes left on the clock, making the score 13 to 14, Indians winning with only one point. Rural Retreat got a final chance to pull ahead of Chilhowie, but once they came close to the end zone, the third quarter ended.
Rural Retreat gained a larger lead in the final quarter by scoring the first touchdown, but not kicking a field goal. Chilhowie got the ball, and slowly pushed down the field. The Warriors threw a long pass, bringing them only a few yards from the end zone. Not only did they score a touchdown, but they got a two-point conversion that put them ahead, 21 to 20. When the Indians got the ball, three minutes were left on the clock as Rural Retreat reached midfield. Later, the Indians threw a long pass and got a touchdown. The Indians went up by five towards the end of the fourth quarter from about a 55 yard pass from Chase Heldreth to Justin Ball. It was very impressive as Ball was in double coverage. The score was then 21 to 26, with the Indians in the lead. Chilhowie got the ball one last time, and made one final effort to score a touchdown. Just as the Warriors neared their end zone, the Indians intercepted a pass, and stopped the Warriors in their last resort. The Warriors drove down field and got to about the ten-yard line with 16 seconds remaining. They threw the ball to win (as they were down by five), and it was intercepted by Dustin Stroupe. The Indians then kneeled; the game was over, and the final score was 26 to 21, with Rural Retreat as the winners.
This was somewhat revenge for the Indians, as Chilhowie hung up inappropriate decorations (tombstones with names of Rural Retreat players) going into their homecoming against Rural Retreat. This could be taken as a threat and reported to the VHSL, but everyone took it as a joke and moved on. It was redemption for the Indians, and that’s all that matters.
Luckily, in the second quarter, the Indians got the ball, and were able to resume where they had left off. Rural Retreat scored the first touchdown of the game; however, they didn’t score the extra point. When the Indians punted the ball to Chilhowie, they ran a 65-yard touchdown and score the extra field goal, putting the Warriors ahead by only one point. Chilhowie kicks back to Rural Retreat and they get to start at the 40-yard line. Not much progress was made, and the ball was given back to the Warriors. Later, when the Indians got the ball again, the Indians made a good run that stopped at about midfield. When there was only a minute and a half left in the quarter, the Indians were fourth down and four yards from a first down. They threw a deep pass, scored another touchdown, and got a two-point conversion. There were only 23 seconds left when Chilhowie got the ball, and the quarter ended with a score of 7 to 14, Indians in the lead.
Rural Retreat received the ball far back in the field in the third quarter. The Indians didn’t even make it to midfield before having to give the ball back to Chilhowie. Chilhowie scored a touchdown with seven minutes left on the clock, making the score 13 to 14, Indians winning with only one point. Rural Retreat got a final chance to pull ahead of Chilhowie, but once they came close to the end zone, the third quarter ended.
Rural Retreat gained a larger lead in the final quarter by scoring the first touchdown, but not kicking a field goal. Chilhowie got the ball, and slowly pushed down the field. The Warriors threw a long pass, bringing them only a few yards from the end zone. Not only did they score a touchdown, but they got a two-point conversion that put them ahead, 21 to 20. When the Indians got the ball, three minutes were left on the clock as Rural Retreat reached midfield. Later, the Indians threw a long pass and got a touchdown. The Indians went up by five towards the end of the fourth quarter from about a 55 yard pass from Chase Heldreth to Justin Ball. It was very impressive as Ball was in double coverage. The score was then 21 to 26, with the Indians in the lead. Chilhowie got the ball one last time, and made one final effort to score a touchdown. Just as the Warriors neared their end zone, the Indians intercepted a pass, and stopped the Warriors in their last resort. The Warriors drove down field and got to about the ten-yard line with 16 seconds remaining. They threw the ball to win (as they were down by five), and it was intercepted by Dustin Stroupe. The Indians then kneeled; the game was over, and the final score was 26 to 21, with Rural Retreat as the winners.
This was somewhat revenge for the Indians, as Chilhowie hung up inappropriate decorations (tombstones with names of Rural Retreat players) going into their homecoming against Rural Retreat. This could be taken as a threat and reported to the VHSL, but everyone took it as a joke and moved on. It was redemption for the Indians, and that’s all that matters.
-Dylan Crigger and Blake Holmes
Monday, October 14, 2013
Benjamin's New Look
According to NewMoney.gov, the $100 bill is the next United States bill to be completely remodeled. Not only will the new bills resonate with a new style, but many security features will be added. Two of the security features include a blue 3D ribbon, and the liberty bell hidden inside the golden ink well. The blue ribbon is actually woven into the bill, not printed. The gold inkwell can be tilted, and the color can shift to reveal a liberty bell inside. These are two easily identified, but effective, changes that will prevent counterfeits. Also, several parts of the bill will include micro printing, which is extremely hard to see with the naked eye. Some areas where micro printing have been added are: around Benjamin’s collar, in a blank space near the watermark, and also around the feather quill. Not only will the "100" on the bill be written in gold, but it will also shift color when tilted back and forth.
The new $100 dollar bill will not only be flashy, but also much harder to copy. The new bill has gone into circulation, and you might see one for yourself. Benjamin Franklin has been completely redesigned, and he looks better than ever.
The new $100 dollar bill will not only be flashy, but also much harder to copy. The new bill has gone into circulation, and you might see one for yourself. Benjamin Franklin has been completely redesigned, and he looks better than ever.
-Dylan Crigger
Thursday, October 10, 2013
Introducing Assistant Principal Jackson
This year, RRHS welcomes a new assistant principal, Mr. Dyer Jackson. He grew up in Fries, VA and went to school there until 1989, when Fries High School consolidated with Independence High School to form Grayson County High School. Mr. Jackson chose to attend Fort Chiswell High School after the consolidation, and graduated from there in 1994. He then attended Bluefield College from 1995 to 1998, where he received his Bachelor's in social studies. Mr. Jackson later attended Radford University, from 2001 to 2003, to get his Master's in Educational Leadership. He says he became an administrator because he enjoys working with all students, no matter what their background. To quote Mr. Jackson, "I look at it as a challenge, and I get to know a lot of people on a personal level."
Mr. Jackson is very excited to be back here at RRHS, where he began his teaching and coaching career 16 years ago. He says people in the Rural Retreat community have always been supportive of him. Mr. Jackson loves RRHS and says everyone has given him a warm welcome back. He says the staff, students, and parents are involved and really care about the school and community.
Of his job, Jackson says he deals with a lot of positives and quite a few negatives, but it's all worth it when he looks at the big picture. He wants everyone to succeed and he is willing to put in the time and effort to make sure that happens. He did say that being an assistant principal can be challenging. He says he has to juggle a lot of different things and deal with some difficult issues; however, it can be very rewarding when he feels like he has touched someone's life and had a positive effect on that person.
Mr. Jackson taught social studies and P.E. at RRHS for five years, P.E. at Fort Chiswell High School for three years, and then served as assistant principal at FCHS for seven. During that time, he also served as head coach for boys' and girls' basketball at both schools. He also coached baseball and football.
I asked what he would change about his life if he could change anything, and Mr. Jackson said he would like to spend more time with his wife, Lindsay, and their three children: Blair, Owen, and Jax. He enjoyed coaching, and says that if his children became interested in playing, he'd consider coaching again. We will just have to see if his wife will allow him to do so!
-Anna Brown
Career Coach Updates
Sophomore Campus Tour of WCC- October 22 and 23
Career Fair for juniors/seniors- Wednesday, Nov. 20
Financial Aid Meeting for seniors and parents - Tuesday, Dec. 3
Career Fair for juniors/seniors- Wednesday, Nov. 20
Financial Aid Meeting for seniors and parents - Tuesday, Dec. 3
See Mrs. Aymer Tuesdays, Wednesdays, or Thursday mornings for college and career planning help.
Casey Endicott Wins Big at JROTC Rifle Competition
Casey Endicott is a 16-year-old junior at RRHS. She is also a First Sergeant in JROTC. I decided to ask Casey some questions about the rifle competition held at WCTC October 5.
This weekend, Casey has another challenging competition in Tennessee. Let’s wish her luck and hope she can bring home another big win!
- Hi Casey, so everyone wants to know: how in the world did you win such a hardcore competition?
- How do you really think you won the competition and what was your score?
- That’s a lot of points! Again, nice job. Whom did you compete against?
- What was the reason for the competition?
- So what kind of competition was held at this particular event?
This weekend, Casey has another challenging competition in Tennessee. Let’s wish her luck and hope she can bring home another big win!
-David Pierce
Whovians Unite for Tardis Petition
Hardcore Doctor Who fans, called "Whovians," are petitioning to turn the Empire State Building blue, just like the TARDIS, the device the doctor uses to travel time. According to 3 News, the campaign has gone to 28,867 signatures in just a week, only a few signatures shy of their goal of 34,999.
The reason Whovians are doing this is not just for fun, but to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the show on November 23. The Doctor has visited New York City several times in the series, so it makes sense to turn the Empire State TARDIS blue. If you're a Whovian interested in adding your name to the petition, click through to Change.org.
-Catherine Cober
Dallas Cowboys v. Denver Broncos
The Dallas Cowboys are the first team all year to close the 7-point win on the Denver Broncos. Yes, the Cowboys lost, but only by three points, which is great because the Cowboys are at a win-lose record of (2-3) currently. According to NFL.com, The Denver Broncos have a win-lose record of (5-0). Tony Romo, Dallas Cowboys QB, had five touchdowns and threw over 500 yards in (so far) the best game he has had all season. Peyton Manning, Denver Broncos QB, had 4 touchdowns and threw over 414 yards: not the best game all season, but a great one. The reason the Cowboys lost was because Tony Romo threw an interception at the last minute of the game and it sealed the win for Denver. Even though the Cowboys lost, they have two things to celebrate: One, the Cowboys are the only team all year to close in on a 7-point lead for Denver; and two, Tony Romo has had one of the best games all season and maybe in his whole career for the Cowboys. Great game, Tony Romo, but Peyton Manning has beat you in this one.
-David Pierce
Crash on I-81
Around 3:30 on October 2, there was a crash on Interstate 81 in Smyth County. According to AccidentIn, the accident was caused by a large truck transporting gasoline. The driver of the truck, Frank Skeens, Jr., who was 48 years old, swerved and turned the truck on its side. The gasoline truck slid into a pickup truck, driven by Trevor Blankenship, who was 30 years old, and exploded. The gasoline truck also hit a highway crash cushion truck, which 27 year old Kenterrious L. Christian of Taylors was driving. All three vehicles caught fire.
The accident was devastating, and many locals could see the smoke from their homes. Both Skeens and Blankenship died at the scene, and Christian died while going to the hospital. Skeens and Blankenship were from Lebanon, and Christian was from South Carolina. Our thoughts will be with their families and friends.
The accident was devastating, and many locals could see the smoke from their homes. Both Skeens and Blankenship died at the scene, and Christian died while going to the hospital. Skeens and Blankenship were from Lebanon, and Christian was from South Carolina. Our thoughts will be with their families and friends.
-Dylan Crigger
Cob Hill Alpaca Farm
This Saturday I went to the Cob Hill Alpaca Farm, which is located in Black Lick, Virginia. I had a great time at the alpaca farm, and I learned a lot. A lot about alpacas, that is. The farm is owned by Tom and Kim Wynn (no relation to myself). They started their alpaca farm because they wanted a farm, but wanted one that was easy to take care of. To them, alpacas are easy to take care of! They say that alpacas are like cats: furry and cute.
Alpacas are members of the camel family. They are smaller and furrier, and they do not have a hump. They are often confused with llamas. The only difference between llamas and alpacas is that alpacas are smaller. Alpacas are not from the U.S.; they are from Chile, Peru, and other parts of South America.
The Cob Hill Alpaca farm now owns ten alpacas, and one guard llama. All ten alpacas are female, and the guard llama is male. The alpacas are well taken care of, grazing on grass and hay. Alpacas generally do not get very big, ranging between 125-200 pounds. Every May, the Alpacas get a "hair cut." Tom and Kim Wynn sell their alpacas' fur. They make yarn, teddy bears, gloves, scarves, socks, and hats. And yes, alpacas have the softest fur that I have ever felt.
Alpacas can be bought for as cheap as $500. However, they can also be expensive. Tom and Kim told us that they know of an alpaca that sold for $80,000!
I had a great time at the Cob Hill Alpaca Farm. I would like to thank Tom and Kim Wynn for inviting my family and I to visit their farm. Anyone who has not been needs to go and visit this unique farm animal!
-Jacob Wynn
Alpacas are members of the camel family. They are smaller and furrier, and they do not have a hump. They are often confused with llamas. The only difference between llamas and alpacas is that alpacas are smaller. Alpacas are not from the U.S.; they are from Chile, Peru, and other parts of South America.
The Cob Hill Alpaca farm now owns ten alpacas, and one guard llama. All ten alpacas are female, and the guard llama is male. The alpacas are well taken care of, grazing on grass and hay. Alpacas generally do not get very big, ranging between 125-200 pounds. Every May, the Alpacas get a "hair cut." Tom and Kim Wynn sell their alpacas' fur. They make yarn, teddy bears, gloves, scarves, socks, and hats. And yes, alpacas have the softest fur that I have ever felt.
Alpacas can be bought for as cheap as $500. However, they can also be expensive. Tom and Kim told us that they know of an alpaca that sold for $80,000!
I had a great time at the Cob Hill Alpaca Farm. I would like to thank Tom and Kim Wynn for inviting my family and I to visit their farm. Anyone who has not been needs to go and visit this unique farm animal!
-Jacob Wynn
Will Johnny Manziel go Two for Two?
All football fans know his name. His name is Johnny Manziel, known to some as “Johnny Football.” He is arguably the greatest freshman to ever play football. As a freshman, he threw for almost 4,000 yards, and had 26 passing touchdowns. While rushing for almost 1,500 yards. Manziel accomplished something that no other freshman before him had: a Heisman Trophy.
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Manziel, now a sophomore, is in the hunt to win another Heisman Trophy. Manziel could become only the second player in college football history to win two Heisman Trophies. Manziel is the most exciting college football player in the nation (yet again). His “off the field life” is a different story. In 2012 Johnny Manziel was arrested for a fight that broke out at Aggie Stadium. During the 2013 off-season, Manziel supposedly took money while he was signing autographs. This is forbidden in the NCAA Rule Book. And on the field, Manziel is extremely cocky and self-centered. Will Heisman voters vote for someone of humble presence, or vote for Johnny Manziel?
-Jacob Wynn
Source: ESPN
A Rare Sight in Cleveland
A third of the way through the NFL season and only three teams remain undefeated. Unlike in an ordinary season, when anywhere from four to seven teams can start off 5-0, now only the New Orleans Saints, Denver Broncos, and Kansas City Chiefs have a record with no tallies in the L column. Also, coming as a surprise to no one, the Jacksonville Jaguars are at the bottom of the league standings at 0-5; however, they are not alone. The New York Giants, Pittsburgh Steelers, and Tampa Bay Buccaneers are starting off in the same, win-less fashion as the teal-colored felines. Just like any other year, there is a dark horse team that no one expects to amount to anything but does for at least the first half of the year. Yes, my fellow sports fans, the Cleveland Browns are atop their AFC North Division with a 3-2 record. Can Brandon Weeden and Coach Chudzinski take the Browns to the Super Bowl? If recent history is any indication, Weeden can only win losing battles … or against the Buffalo Bills.
-Isaiah Addair
-Isaiah Addair
TV Review: Smallville
Have you ever watched Smallville? If you are a Superman fan, you should consider watching it! In Season One, Tom Welling portrays a young Superman. It chronicles Clark Kent's discovering his powers and abilities as Superman, while trying to be “normal.” The problem is, he can’t. He struggles with trying to keep his powers hidden.
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The show is centered in Smallville, Kansas. Season One tells of Clark Kent’s origins. Adopted Clark lives with parents, Jonathon Kent (John Schneider) and Martha Kent (Annette O’ Toole).Like many teenagers, Clark has a love interest. He is in love with Lana Lang (Kristin Kreuk).
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I will have to end my blog on that note. I don’t want to tell you what happens during the ten years of Smallville (2001-2011). You’ll have to find out for yourself!
-Jacob Wynn
Wednesday, October 9, 2013
Data Collectors Know What About You?
According to Fox Business, data collectors watch every aspect of your life. They know how much money you make and what kind of jobs you have; that lets them know the amount of money you have to throw around. They collect information about your cars from some public records: they know if your car is older (and thus you have to spend a lot of money on it), or if you have a brand-new car that hardly needs work, which means more money you can put into buying their products. They know what you like to do when you have free time, and if you're good at managing your money.
Using all of this information, they center your internet advertisements on you. If you like to kayak, there’s a good chance they may advertise their new line of kayaks. They know if you've had health problems, or if you’re scared about getting some type of sickness. They keep track of how much you spend on medicines, and may advertise medicines for less than what you've been spending. Last summer, if you took a trip to the beach, they know. They can tell by tracking your spending.
They also know about your social relationships. If you post that you’re in a relationship on Facebook, it can be shared with a third party, which could be a data collector. That would cause them to advertise products and events for couples. They watch all your web page views from your computer or phone. This can let them know where you spend the most time on the Internet, so they can try to get your attention there. Not only do they know what you do, but they also know where you do it. If you have an app that uses location services (Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram, just to name a few) they can see where you spend most of your off-time. They collect demographic information about you, like your race, ethnicity, and even where you go to church. They know if you like Miley Cyrus or Luke Bryan. They know if you like to read fantasy novels or poetry. We all love to watch those funny videos on YouTube; well, they know that, too. They keep track of what music you stream, what books you download to any device, and what magazines you’re subscribed to. Data collectors even know if you've just had a new baby, or if you've just been engaged to the love of your life. They keep track of all your major life events. Data collectors even go as far as knowing what political views you have. They view information that is available publicly, and for that they may be able to guess who you voted for or who you may vote for in the future.
They also know about your social relationships. If you post that you’re in a relationship on Facebook, it can be shared with a third party, which could be a data collector. That would cause them to advertise products and events for couples. They watch all your web page views from your computer or phone. This can let them know where you spend the most time on the Internet, so they can try to get your attention there. Not only do they know what you do, but they also know where you do it. If you have an app that uses location services (Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram, just to name a few) they can see where you spend most of your off-time. They collect demographic information about you, like your race, ethnicity, and even where you go to church. They know if you like Miley Cyrus or Luke Bryan. They know if you like to read fantasy novels or poetry. We all love to watch those funny videos on YouTube; well, they know that, too. They keep track of what music you stream, what books you download to any device, and what magazines you’re subscribed to. Data collectors even know if you've just had a new baby, or if you've just been engaged to the love of your life. They keep track of all your major life events. Data collectors even go as far as knowing what political views you have. They view information that is available publicly, and for that they may be able to guess who you voted for or who you may vote for in the future.
-Kellie Bass
Monday, October 7, 2013
Government Closed Down
Here recently, the federal government has encountered a complete shutdown. Congress couldn't agree on a spending plan for Obamacare, and therefore the bill has not been passed. Most of the people who agreed to pass the bill were Democrats, while most Republicans thought that it shouldn't be passed. If a compromise can’t be made, more of the federal government will slowly come to a halt.
This doesn't necessarily mean the United States has no government for the time being. Everyone still has to obey the law, and people will still be punished for not doing so. This simply means people who work for federal agencies and businesses aren't being paid. However, the military, Congress, and President Obama are still being paid.
According to NBC News, President Obama says he is angry with Congress for postponing the bill for Obamacare that originally caused the government to close. He says it is unnecessary and irresponsible. Members of Congress weren't built to argue. It is fine to disagree and try to compromise, but arguing only arouses more problems.
Remember, this isn't the first time our government has had a shutdown. The last shutdown happened in 1995, and lasted 21 days. This year’s shutdown shouldn't cause any major problems, but the longer Congress waits to pass the bill, the more of an effect the government shutdown will have on the country. Hopefully Congress will reach an agreement, and the government can get back up on its feet again.
This doesn't necessarily mean the United States has no government for the time being. Everyone still has to obey the law, and people will still be punished for not doing so. This simply means people who work for federal agencies and businesses aren't being paid. However, the military, Congress, and President Obama are still being paid.
According to NBC News, President Obama says he is angry with Congress for postponing the bill for Obamacare that originally caused the government to close. He says it is unnecessary and irresponsible. Members of Congress weren't built to argue. It is fine to disagree and try to compromise, but arguing only arouses more problems.
Remember, this isn't the first time our government has had a shutdown. The last shutdown happened in 1995, and lasted 21 days. This year’s shutdown shouldn't cause any major problems, but the longer Congress waits to pass the bill, the more of an effect the government shutdown will have on the country. Hopefully Congress will reach an agreement, and the government can get back up on its feet again.
- Dylan Crigger
Source: CNN
NBA Training Camp Begins
The NBA time of year recently began as teams all around the league went back to training camp to get ready for the 2013-2014 season. The Miami Heat are going back to try to defend their title and go for a third consecutive NBA Championship. This would be the first three-peat since 2000-2002, when Kobe Bryant and the Lakers won three in a row, first against Phoenix, then Philadelphia, then finally the New Jersey Nets (now the Brooklyn Nets). When asked about the upcoming season, LeBron James told ESPN, “I got better; I know you are all tired of hearing me say it, I said it last year and you asked how, but I got better.” The Heat have more competition than they have the past two years though, as Derrick Rose comes back for the Bulls, coming off of a torn ACL that caused him to miss the 2012 playoffs, and the 2012-2013 season. The Nets look good too, acquiring Paul Pierce, Kevin Garnett, and Jason Terry from the Celtics in a blockbuster deal. Golden State really looks like they could give the Thunder a run for their money as the best team out on the west coast. Stephen Curry is set to have another great year, also as Klay Thompson gets better. The Warriors even picked up Andre Igoudala from Denver as his contract ran out, and this team could go deep into the postseason. Oklahoma City may be in for a rough season at the beginning, as Russell Westbrook is uncertain because of his injury in last year’s postseason. With Denver picking up Nate Robinson and new head coach Brian Shaw, the Nuggets look to make the playoffs for the eleventh straight year, and with a talented line-up, including players like Ty Lawson and Kenneth Faried, Denver looks good this year.
This list depicts my predictions for the seeds of the NBA Playoffs this season.
East
1. Miami Heat
2. Chicago Bulls
3. Brooklyn Nets
4. Indiana Pacers
5. New York Knicks
6. Cleveland Cavaliers
7. Atlanta Hawks
8. Milwaukee Bucks
West
1. Golden State Warriors
2. Oklahoma City Thunder
3. San Antonio Spurs
4. Denver Nuggets
5. Los Angeles Clippers
6. Memphis Grizzlies
7. Los Angeles Lakers
8. Houston Rockets
- Blake Holmes
Golf Team's Peyton Brewer Qualifies for Regions
The golf team played in the conference tournament last Thursday, and Peyton Brewer qualified for regions with a final score of 91 at Draper. The team played 18 holes and the final scores were not bad. Here are the scores in order:
Golf Team Scores
Peyton Brewer: 91
Dallas Shumate: 93
Zack Sprouse: 100
Josh Penuel: 105
Blake Holmes: 112
Garrett Wright: 126
This is a good team score that did beat one team in the conference. That team was the Patrick Henry Rebels. The winners of the conference tournament were the George Wythe Maroons and the Galax Maroon Tide. The MVP was Jon Deters from the George Wythe Maroons, with a 78. It was a good season. As the golf team says goodbye to Brewer and Sprouse, on behalf of the golf team, we will miss you guys!
Golf Team Scores
Peyton Brewer: 91
Dallas Shumate: 93
Zack Sprouse: 100
Josh Penuel: 105
Blake Holmes: 112
Garrett Wright: 126
This is a good team score that did beat one team in the conference. That team was the Patrick Henry Rebels. The winners of the conference tournament were the George Wythe Maroons and the Galax Maroon Tide. The MVP was Jon Deters from the George Wythe Maroons, with a 78. It was a good season. As the golf team says goodbye to Brewer and Sprouse, on behalf of the golf team, we will miss you guys!
-Blake Holmes
Wytheville Car Show
Have you ever been to a car show that was boring or just didn’t have the cars you like to see? Well, if you want an amazing car show, you need to go to Wytheville. I visited a car show held on September 26, which showed how much our country loves old American muscle cars. There were some Mustangs, Chevys, and Cadillacs. They weren't just your original stock cars that people also love to see, but there were custom cars and some drag cars there, too. There were cars there that had fancy paint jobs and some that didn't. There were cars saved from junk yards and some barn finds, too. This car show is the best there is, so next year you need to be there!
-David Pierce
Game Review: Madden 25
Do you want a football game that lets you control your whole team, from money to stadium? Well, here is the game for you. Madden 25 came out in September instead of August. There is a reason, though: this game is so much better. The graphics are to the max and the controls are just like Madden 13, so there is no difference in controls. The thing most people love about Madden 13 is that you can control your team as a manager. You can make the money, build a new stadium, and move the stadium to any city you want. That’s awesome! There are no real major flaws to this game; the only one is that it’s hard to see after a couple of hours because you won’t want to put it down. So if you want a copy of Madden 25, you can get one at Game Stop or Wal-Mart. This game is worth it all!
-David Pierce
-David Pierce
Friday, October 4, 2013
Marching Band Receives Superior Rating in Competition
On Saturday, the Big Indian Marching Band went to Tazewell for their first competition of the season. They performed at approximately 1:00.
In class A-2, the band's received numerous awards:
In class A-2, the band's received numerous awards:
- 2nd place music
- 2nd place marching
- 1st place general effect
- 2nd place auxiliary
- 3rd place percussion
- 3rd place drum major
- 2nd place overall
-Jessie Ritz
Haunted Houses in Our Area
1. Major Graham Mansion
- Fort Chiswell
- $15 on October 4-5, November 1-2
- $20 on October 11-12, 18-19, 25-26
- Gates open at 6 pm
2. St. Albans Sanatorium
- Radford
- $10
- Every Friday and Saturday in October
-Kellie Bass
Homecoming Week 2013 Results
Camo Day
1st-Seniors
2nd-Juniors
3rd-Sophomores
4th-Freshmen
Crazy/Twin Day
1st-Seniors
2nd-Juniors
3rd-Sophomores
4th- Freshmen
Retro Day
1st-Sophomores
2nd-Juniors
3rd-Seniors
4th-Freshmen
Favorite Sports Team Day
1st-Seniors
2nd-Juniors
3rd-Sophomores
4th-Freshmen
Orange and Black Day
1st-Juniors
2nd-Seniors
3rd-Sophomores
4th-Freshmen
Final Dress-up Days Score
1st-Seniors
2nd-Sophomores
3rd-Juniors
4th-Freshmen
Carnival Ranking
1st place-Sophomores (23 points)
2nd place-Seniors (21 points)
3rd place-Juniors (14 points)
4th place-Freshmen (11 points)
Parade Floats
1st-Juniors
2nd-Freshmen
3rd-Sophomores
4th-Seniors
Overall Rank for Homecoming Week
1st-Seniors
2nd-Sophomores
3rd-Juniors
4th-Freshmen
-Anna Brown
Climb of Luck
According to Yahoo News, a French mountain climber stumbled upon a
trove of emeralds, rubies, and sapphires while climbing the Mont Blanc
glacier. The unnamed climber stated that he found the jewels in a metal box that bore
the stamp “Made in India.” He took the box to local authorities so he could get
the estimated value of the jewels (around $332,000 dollars) and so they could
send the jewels back to India to find the rightful heirs. The box
the jewels were in was in a plane crash at Mont Blanc that occurred 50
years prior; the crash killed 117 people, including the "pioneer of India’s
nuclear program," Homi Jehangir Bhabha. Climbers of Mont Blanc often see debris,
baggage, and human remains on their climbs up the mountain. According to
French policy, if the jewels are not claimed by their rightful owners, then
the climber may walk away $332,000 richer. If only everyone could find
that many jewels climbing a mountain!
-Kevin Brown
Crisis in Kenya
The hostage crisis in Kenya’s biggest mall, Westgate, finally ended last week. Westgate is located in Nairobi, and is a big center for commerce. Victims hailed from all over the world, including Great Britain, Canada, America, China, France, Ghana, India, Peru, South Africa, South Korea, and the Netherlands. The mall was overtaken earlier last week by six Islamic radicals from the Somali al-Shabaab group. According to The Guardian, 62 people have been killed, with the injured count going over 170; this number is suspected to rise. It was reported that on the fourth and final day of the crisis, the Kenyan military had taken back the mall from the radicals. However, confusion stirred as explosions were still heard coming from the mall. The military reported that they were controlled explosions. Also, although the Somali al-Shabaab group has claimed responsibility for the attacks, this claim is still being investigated by officials.
-Kevin Brown
Praise Gone Wrong: Louisiana Pastor Shot and Killed
A southwest Louisiana pastor was killed in late September by Woodrow Karey, who was once a member of his congregation. At the time of the shooting, the pastor was singing with the choir when the perpetrator walked in and attempted to shoot at him. The first bullet missed and hit a flowerpot, but the second shot hit Pastor Ronald Harris, Sr. in the back, knocking him to the ground and giving the shooter time to close in and fire another shot. The pastor’s daughter, when talking to reporters at Fox News, claimed that her if her father could say anything to Karey, he would tell him, “I forgive you and I love you. Come to church, and let God visit your mind.”
-Isaiah Addair
-Isaiah Addair
Boy Abducted in 2000 Reunited with His Father
In 2000, an unnamed one-year-old boy was abducted in Florida and just last week was returned to his father in Missouri at the age of 14 (CNN).
"I think this is any parent's nightmare. To have this ending, it's a good thing, no doubt about it," said Detective Menconi of the Livingston County Sheriff's Office.
13 years ago in Florida, Sandy Hatte abducted her grandson when the father asked her to babysit. When he returned home, he found that they were both gone. It took detectives and authorities 13 years to find them.
Hatte took her grandson to Chillicothe, Missouri, where they were homeless. When she tried to register the boy in school, authorities became suspicious and contacted Detective Menconi. Just as he finally located the two, Hatte quickly moved to Iowa.
A few months later, Menconi located the two again. According to Missouri state law, if a child is taken for more than 30 days without legal permission, it is considered child abduction. After a long drive from Alabama to Missouri, the father was reunited with his son last week.
Hatte is being charged with felony child abduction. Detective Menconi said the motive of the kidnapping is unknown.
"I think this is any parent's nightmare. To have this ending, it's a good thing, no doubt about it," said Detective Menconi of the Livingston County Sheriff's Office.
13 years ago in Florida, Sandy Hatte abducted her grandson when the father asked her to babysit. When he returned home, he found that they were both gone. It took detectives and authorities 13 years to find them.
Hatte took her grandson to Chillicothe, Missouri, where they were homeless. When she tried to register the boy in school, authorities became suspicious and contacted Detective Menconi. Just as he finally located the two, Hatte quickly moved to Iowa.
A few months later, Menconi located the two again. According to Missouri state law, if a child is taken for more than 30 days without legal permission, it is considered child abduction. After a long drive from Alabama to Missouri, the father was reunited with his son last week.
Hatte is being charged with felony child abduction. Detective Menconi said the motive of the kidnapping is unknown.
-Jessie Ritz
Thursday, October 3, 2013
Fight Bullying
Here in Rural Retreat, we try to prevent bullying. Most people think that bullying might only be prominent in elementary and middle schools, but in reality bullying can happen to anybody at any age. Even after someone gets out of high school, he/she could still be bullied by someone. According to StopBullying.gov, bullying is unwanted and aggressive behavior towards someone that often contains an imbalance of power. This imbalance doesn't have to be physical, but if someone believes he/she is not as important as everyone else, then this, too, could be an imbalance.
Bullying doesn't have to be physical, which is what most people perceive as bullying. If someone is purposely excluded from a group, then this is bullying. Adults as well as students at any level can agree there are people who are excluded. High schools can be divided into groups and cliques. Everyone fits into their own group of friends, and some people are excluded on purpose. This bullying can be hard to spot because it doesn't involve name-calling or physical contact. Exclusion can be completely overlooked by teachers and students in school.
It isn't enough to say “Stop Bullying.” Sometimes, bullying is hard to pick out, and since it is so easy to bully someone, bullying can’t simply be stopped. Bullying will always be a problem no matter how hard we try to prevent it. We need to stand up to bullying, because no one deserves to feel any less important than anyone else. The one being bullied will rarely stand up for him or herself, so we need to try to help them. If you see someone being excluded, you can decide to befriend them. Sometimes, watching someone being mistreated can be just as bad as mistreating them yourself. That is why we must do everything in our ability to make everyone feel like they are worth something. Only then can these people get a fair chance at life.
The golden rule is something we can all live by: treat others the way you want to be treated. It is only fair to do so; no one deserves to be bullied, whether it is exclusion, verbal abuse, or physical contact.
Bullying doesn't have to be physical, which is what most people perceive as bullying. If someone is purposely excluded from a group, then this is bullying. Adults as well as students at any level can agree there are people who are excluded. High schools can be divided into groups and cliques. Everyone fits into their own group of friends, and some people are excluded on purpose. This bullying can be hard to spot because it doesn't involve name-calling or physical contact. Exclusion can be completely overlooked by teachers and students in school.
It isn't enough to say “Stop Bullying.” Sometimes, bullying is hard to pick out, and since it is so easy to bully someone, bullying can’t simply be stopped. Bullying will always be a problem no matter how hard we try to prevent it. We need to stand up to bullying, because no one deserves to feel any less important than anyone else. The one being bullied will rarely stand up for him or herself, so we need to try to help them. If you see someone being excluded, you can decide to befriend them. Sometimes, watching someone being mistreated can be just as bad as mistreating them yourself. That is why we must do everything in our ability to make everyone feel like they are worth something. Only then can these people get a fair chance at life.
The golden rule is something we can all live by: treat others the way you want to be treated. It is only fair to do so; no one deserves to be bullied, whether it is exclusion, verbal abuse, or physical contact.
-Dylan Crigger
Derrick Rose: The Return
According to NBA writer Josh Martin, Chicago Bulls player Derrick Rose has said that his knee/ACL is doing fine and that he will return for the 2013-2014 season. The Chicago Bulls point guard is set to try to bring an NBA Championship back to Chicago. One question about this though: will he be as good as he was? Rose has not played since April 28, 2012, when he injured his knee in game one of the first round of the NBA Playoffs. The Bulls had the number one seed in the Eastern Conference, and were a huge favorite to beat the Philadelphia 76ers, and to win a championship. That was, until Rose drove inside during game one, landed awkwardly, and tore his ACL. The 76ers did end up winning the series, only to be eliminated by the Boston Celtics in the next round. The Miami Heat won that championship, one that was heavily favored to go to Chicago, and Derrick Rose hasn't played since. Is he ready to come back better than ever, or will he fall short of expectations? I say that he will come back and be better that he ever was, since he has had all this time to work on the weak aspects of his game. He may be rusty in the first game of the regular season, but watch out when he gets used to it. The Bulls will go to Indiana to play the Pacers for their first game, another high level threat in the Eastern Conference.
-Blake Holmes
-Blake Holmes
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