Issue 3: Unwrapping December
Fighting Fast Fashion: What is the Raider Rack?
Atlee’s Raider Rack is back in business for its second year. This pop-up thrift store is spearheaded by seniors Mackenzie Halford and Abby Corey. For just one day in January, the Raider Rack will be open at Atlee High School for anyone to buy inexpensive used clothes from hundreds of donations.
Corey approximates that around “1,500 clothing articles” were donated to the Raider Rack last year. This year they are receiving a “larger amount of clothes” through various collection boxes and partnerships with thrift stores such as Uptown Cheapskate.
Halford and Corey both expect the project to receive more donations, in addition to a wider spread in its other effects. They hope to “sell more, raise more money, and bring more awareness to the community, and not just Atlee,” Corey elaborates. While the Raider Rack is a DECA event, their reasoning behind it goes beyond fundraising.
Halford specifies that she and Corey hope to use the Raider Rack to raise “awareness for the dangers of fast fashion, including environmental impacts and the impacts on child labor.”
Fast fashion is a self-explanatory term-- fashion made fast. Shein, Temu, and H&M are among the more well-known names. The hasty and cheap making of their clothes results in low prices, but an equally low quality and lack of sustainability. Thus, the clothes are soon thrown out, creating waste. According to Halford, this industry accounts for 10% of carbon emissions worldwide. Furthermore, the Changing Markets Foundation states that fast fashion accounts for 1.35% of global oil consumption-- more oil than the entire country of Spain uses in a year (Fossil Fashion).
Fast fashion products are often created in countries without laws prohibiting acts such as child labor. Workers in these countries, thus in the fast fashion industry, work for as many as “16 hours a day” for minuscule wages. Purchasing fast fashion encourages these behaviors and enables brands to continue their practices.
The Raider Rack is an effort to fight fast fashion. When people buy used clothes, they get “sustainable clothing choices” that fast fashion cannot provide.
Corey and Halford know that most people do not know what fast fashion is or what its effects are. Even they were not as conscious about it “before starting this project.” The seniors hope the Raider Rack will remedy this. They admit it is a “very small project” in the grand scheme of things, but they want to emphasize that every purchase acts as “progress towards a better future.”
Donations for the Raider Rack are now closed, but the store will be open at Atlee High School on Saturday, January 18, from 11 am to 3 pm.
Written by Dylan Gibson
School and Academics
Study Tips and Organization Skills
With deadlines and the holiday season around the corner, balancing assignments and extracurriculars requires effective study habits and organizational strategies. Developing these skills can help students manage their time and workload effectively
Environment
The working environment is a major factor in an effective study session. Find a space with minimal distractions, like a quiet room at home or a reserved space in the library. Make sure the area is quiet with minimal foot traffic and put your phone on Do Not Disturb while placing it somewhere that is out of sight. If preferred, working with music is okay, but make sure you focus on the work, not the song.
Time management
Having a physical planner/agenda or using a digital app like Google Calendar helps visualize all work. Break the important tasks into manageable steps while leaving room for breaks. Time-block these tasks by setting a schedule to focus on different tasks. For example:
5:00-5:25: Math Study Session
5:25-5:30: Break
5:30-5:55: Outline English Essay
Stick to these time blocks but allow for some flexibility for an optimal study session.
Organization
A chaotic and cluttered workspace can lead to a messy mindset. Emphasize keeping physical and digital space tidy; mind wandering is the killer of a good study session.
Techniques
Reading notes and slideshows are not effective ways of retaining information. It is necessary to actively engage in the material and become your own teacher. The University of California San Diego’s Department of Psychology outlines two distinct ways of effective studying.
Spaced/Distributed Practice A.K.A. Spaced Repetition
Learning over multiple periods of studying time, like revisiting a textbook chapter once every other day to retain information (Pan).
Retrieval Practice A.K.A. Active Recall
This technique is not re-studying information but recalling study material from memory, like taking a practice test and identifying weak points (Pan).
Effective study habits and organizational skills aid in academic success but they do not have to be overwhelming. By setting up a focused environment, managing time wisely, and using proven techniques, you can work more efficiently. These strategies are tools, so find what works best for your style and goals. Start small and stay consistent.
Written by Grayson Heraldo
Recap of HHS Fall Sports
Over the past couple of months, various Hanover fall sports have competed in both regional and state championships within their respective sports, marking the end of the fall season as well as the transition into winter sports.
Some of the more notable achievements within Hanover High School’s varsity sports are boys and girls golf, boys and girls cross country, and boys volleyball. Before upcoming championships and tournaments, all teams dedicate significant amounts of time and effort to ensure they perform to the best of their abilities in the upcoming competitions.
Both the boys and girls golf teams competed in a regional tournament in which the team with the lowest score was declared the winner. For the first time in a long time, boys volleyball made it past regionals onto the state championships. Despite being knocked out in the state game against Atlee at the Siegel Center, the boys volleyball team still walked away with the accomplishment of making it as far as they had.
Boys and girls cross country, following a top 3 finish at regionals, made their way to states. This year's state championships were held at Oatlands, located in Leesburg, Virginia. The state competition concluded with Elliana Augustin finishing 6th, earning a top 10 spot, while Ben Chandler and Stewart Williams secured top 20 finishes, with Chandler placing 17th and Williams 19th.
Following their performances at Oatlands, the cross-country teams took a trip to North Carolina for NXR (Nike Cross Regional Championships). The race was held at WakeMed soccer park, a familiar course for the cross-country teams as they ran the Great American Cross Country Festival there earlier in the season. With the commencement of NXR, both cross-country teams ended their season on a good note, moving on to indoor track. Hanover's fall sports teams had a successful season, marked by numerous well-earned victories.
Written by Evie Keener
Atlee’s Fall Sports
The boys varsity volleyball team swept Hanover 3-0 at VCU’s Siegel Center for their first state championship. Senior Sam Cook’s performance was a highlight of the season, as were the performances of Vaughan Mayo, Bryce Schkeeper, Bryce Bedford, and Grant Wolford.Atlee’s girls volleyball team also won a tournament. Blake Crawford was named Regional Player of the Year with Emma Bowes as runner-up libero.
The Raiders football team swept the county and ended their season with a 5-5 win/loss ratio.
Both boys and girls cross-country teams brought their best performances. James Mulcahy was the Region 4B Champion and placed 13th at the State Championship Meet. James Mulcahy, Owen Guest, Noah Hagberg, Mason Lahrman, and Jace Gourley earned All-Region honors.
At the girls regional championship, Amelia Waggoner, Carissa Ambrose, and Addison Crow got 4th, 5th, and 6th places, respectively, in the girls championship race. Sydney Wood and Teagan Gilhoolly earned All-Region honors. Crow and Ambrose both placed in the top 10 at the Class 4 State Championship, earning them All-State spots.
Atlee Golf achieved regional runner-up status, as well as placing 3rd in states.
Various field hockey players were named for All-Region: Lenna Chandler, Kendra Williamson, Madison Michalski, Kasey Toth, and Reese Rusnak all made first team, and Taylor White made second team.
Atlee cheerleaders Lilly Farag, Raegan Tapper, Hailie Lowry-Blackman, Shamar Heyward, and Kayla McClenny attained first-team all-region for competition cheer.
Written by Dylan Gibson
Winter Sports Information For All High Schools
The Virginia High School League offers five sports during the winter season. All four schools in the county have these sports, although team size may vary from school to school. The winter sports offered by the VHSL are basketball (girls and boys), gymnastics, indoor track, swim and dive, and wrestling. Other sports schools may offer sideline cheer and dance teams. Below is a list of coaches for each school.
Atlee High School
Basketball
Girls: Coach Kimberly Browning
Boys: Coach Rally Axselle
Gymnastics: Coach Lee Withers
Indoor Track: Coach Neil Mathews
Swim and Dive: Coach Austin Witherow
Wrestling: Coach Jacob Godbolt
Sideline Cheer: Christine Hogan
Hanover High School
Basketball
Girls: Coach Annie Hawthorne
Boys: Coach Rob Rice
Gymnastics: Coach Emma Bradberry
Indoor Track: Coach Richard Firth
Swim and Dive: Coach George Massey
Wrestling: Jason Smith
Mechanicsville High School
Basketball
Girls Varsity: Coach Alvin Puller
Girls JV: Coach Jules Kawczynski
Boys Varsity: Coach Kevin Brooks
Boys JV: Coach Rai Storrs
Varsity: Coach Rai Storrs
Gymnastics: Coach Kathleen Spector
Indoor Track: Coach Collin Mann
Swim and Dive: Coach Kelly Hargreaves
Wrestling: Coach Tanner Tinsley
Cheer: Coach Crystal Smith
Dance Team: Coach Wendy Beazley
Patrick Henry High School
Basketball
Girls: Coach Summer Price
Boys: Coach Randy Anderson
Gymnastics: Coach Kristy Severin
Indoor Track: Coach Scott Brown
Swim and Dive: Coach: Bob Flanagan
Wrestling: Coach Jeremy Smith
Written by Ellie Augustin
Scholarship Information
There are plenty of scholarship opportunities available to seniors. The easiest and all-encompassing of which is the Great Aspirations Scholarship Program or GRASP. GRASP offers assistance with financial aid, like FASFA or VASA, and scholarships. There is a different representative for every Hanover County High School, which are listed below:
Atlee -- atlee@grasp4va.org
Atlee High School students can also schedule an appointment with the representative, Patty Wood, on Thursdays here, or at the link: https://calendly.com/atlee-grasp4va/
Hanover -- hanover@grasp4va.org
Hanover High School students can also schedule an appointment with the representative, Joannalyn Jordan, on Mondays here, or at the link: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C084DA5A62FA3FEC07-50859329-grasp#/
Mechanicsville -- mechanicsville@grasp4va.org
Mechanicsville High School students can also schedule an appointment with the representative, Barbara Hassett, on Thursdays here, or at the link: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/805094faaa62eaafd0-grasp1#/
Patrick Henry -- patrickhenry@grasp4va.org
Patrick Henry High School students can also schedule an appointment with the representative, Cathy Semel, on Thursdays here, or at the link: https://calendly.com/patrickhenry-grasp4va/patrickhenry?month=2024-11
Many of the scholarship deadlines fall between December and April, and Hanover County has provided a website in which you can search through scholarships, listed here: https://app.schoolinks.com/
There is also a presentation on how to write a resume and general advice on scholarships linked here: https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1O7hcRRO4Z0lDSg2JzSXVIcE5lM1ZzrhbsTcJTKa6XWw/edit#slide=id.g703ed5f267_0_289
Written by Finn Winegardner
Community
Celebrating the Season: Local Holiday Traditions and Events
As the holiday season approaches, many events are being held around the area to celebrate. Local community events play a vital role in fostering traditions that unite residents. In our community, November and December feature events including the Turkey Trot, the Ashland Day Parade, and performances by the Richmond Ballet.
Every year around Thanksgiving, a race known as the Turkey Trot takes place all over the United States with distances ranging from five kilometers to ten kilometers. The event is available for all ages, with some of the races raising money for different types of charities.
On November 28, 2024, a Turkey Trot was held in Glen Allen, VA. The event raised money for the Harlie and Friends Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to alleviating the financial burdens of families with children requiring specialized medical care. Various Turkey Trots were also held in nearby locations, including Richmond and Bell Creek.
Every year on the Sunday before Thanksgiving, the Ashland Day Parade takes place starting on Snead Street and ending near Archie Cannon Drive. The parade celebrates the holiday season with over 1,500 participants either walking, running, or biking the streets.
Another local event, The Richmond Nutcracker Ballet, has been around for over twenty years. It typically takes place between December 7 and 23 at the Dominion Energy Center. Tickets cost $25 per person. This ballet recreates the traditional holiday story of the Nutcracker.
Written by Kaitlyn Phillips
December Celebrations Around the World
December is a magical month filled with celebrations from around the globe. Each holiday has its unique charm, rooted in cultural, religious, or historical traditions. Let’s take a closer look at some of the most notable December holidays and the fascinating stories behind them.
Hanukkah, often called the Festival of Lights, is a celebration of resilience and miracles. It commemorates the rededication of the Second Temple in Jerusalem during the 2nd century BCE when the Maccabean Jews reclaimed their sacred space from the Seleucid Empire. Legend has it that a small amount of oil, meant to last just one day, burned for eight miraculous nights. That’s why Hanukkah spans eight days, marked by lighting the menorah, reciting prayers, playing dreidel, and indulging in delicious fried foods like latkes and jelly doughnuts.
Christmas celebrated on December 25, is perhaps the most well-known December holiday. It honors the birth of Jesus Christ and has roots in ancient Roman festivals like Saturnalia and the Feast of Sol Invictus. By the 4th century CE, December 25 was chosen to mark this sacred day. Over time, Christmas has blended religious reverence with festive cheer, from decorating trees and exchanging gifts to attending church services and sharing meals. And of course, Santa Claus, inspired by Saint Nicholas, adds a sprinkle of magic to the season.
Kwanzaa, observed from December 26 to January 1, is a vibrant celebration of African heritage, unity, and culture. Created in 1966 by Dr. Maulana Karenga, its name comes from the Swahili phrase "matunda ya kwanza" (first fruits), drawing inspiration from African harvest festivals. Families celebrate by lighting the Kinara, reflecting on the Nguzo Saba (Seven Principles), sharing stories, and enjoying feasts that honor African traditions.
Tied to the winter solstice on December 21 or 22, Yule brings ancient Norse and Germanic traditions to life. It marks the year’s shortest day and longest night, celebrating the return of the sun’s light. Many Yule customs, like burning the Yule log and decorating with evergreens, have found their way into modern Christmas festivities. It’s also a time to feast and honor deities such as Odin.
Bodhi Day, celebrated on December 8 (or on varying dates in lunar traditions), is a serene holiday for Buddhists. It honors the day Siddhartha Gautama attained enlightenment and became the Buddha. Observances include meditation, chanting, studying scriptures, and decorating with lights or ficus trees, symbolizing the Bodhi tree under which Buddha meditated.
Las Posadas, a vibrant Mexican tradition held from December 16 to 24, reenacts Mary and Joseph’s search for shelter before the birth of Jesus. This lively celebration features processions, carols, piñatas, and festive meals, bringing communities together to reflect on the Nativity story.
Boxing Day, on December 26, has its origins in the United Kingdom as a day for giving. Traditionally, wealthy families would offer gifts or money to their servants and the poor. Over time, it’s become associated with shopping, sports, and acts of charity.
Omisoka, celebrated on December 31 in Japan, is all about fresh starts. It’s a time to clean the house, both literally and figuratively, and prepare for the coming year. Traditions include eating toshikoshi soba (year-crossing noodles) and listening to temple bells ring 108 times in the ritual of Joya no Kane, symbolizing the cleansing of earthly desires.
Saint Nicholas Day, on December 6, honors the legendary generosity of Saint Nicholas of Myra, a 4th-century Christian bishop. Known for his miracles and kind heart, Saint Nicholas inspired the modern figure of Santa Claus. Families mark the day with small gifts, treats left in shoes, and church services.
Finally, New Year’s Eve on December 31 brings the year to a close with a bang—literally, in many cases, with fireworks lighting up the skies. This global celebration often includes countdowns, toasts, resolutions, and parties, as people bid farewell to the old year and welcome the new with hope and excitement.
These December holidays highlight the incredible diversity of human culture, offering moments of joy, reflection, and connection as we close out the year. Whether through feasts, lights, or traditions passed down through generations, these celebrations remind us of the beauty of coming together.
Written by Jessica Roberts
Volunteer Opportunities
Patrick Henry
Beta Club Winter Coat Drive
Please donate new or gently used coats, continuing throughout the winter
PH Winter Jubilee - December 19th
Happening from 5-7 pm at PHHS.
Hanover
Hawk Invitational - December 21st
At 5050 Ridgedale Parkway, Richmond, VA 23234.
Volunteers will time individual events with stopwatches, and an event official will walk volunteers through the process before the event starts. 2 sessions will be available, prelims (7:45 am-12:15 pm) and finals (3:15 pm - 7:30 pm). Wear clothes that can be splashed, along with appropriate footwear. Sign Up
County-Wide
Donate to ACES (Ashland Christian Emergency Services)
Donations of non-perishable foods, personal hygiene products, clean and gently used clothes, and household items such as laundry detergent, toilet paper, dishes, pots, pans, towels, and linens. Please visit www.aceshanover.org for more information.
“Adopt” an Individual for the HCSB’s Developmental Disabilities Department
The Hanover Community Service Board’s Developmental Disabilities Department is accepting gift donations for individuals with disabilities who may not receive gifts this holiday season. For more information, please contact Michele Elliott at 804-365-6606 or mmelliott@hanovercounty.gov.
WHEAT (Western Hanover Emergency Action Team)
Email sourthannariver@gmail.com to volunteer at a food pantry.
Written by Marley G
Arts and Culture
Behind the Curtain: The Magic of Mary Poppins
The Hanover Theater Company debuted its fall musical, Mary Poppins, on November 21-24, 2024. The musical was almost entirely student-led, with the exception of the director, Deb Clinton; the theater teacher at HHS. The technical aspects of the shows, including lighting, sound, and stage management, are all credited to the student technology team. One key figure behind these technical elements was Eddie Olex, the production manager for Mary Poppins. In her role, she was responsible for overseeing the sound system and managing the team of technicians in the booth opposite the stage. Eddy thanks her middle school history teacher for encouraging her to join the theater.
Eddy Olex shared, “I’ve learned about different technologies as well as people and management skills.” She also emphasized an important point many people neglect. “I don’t think people know how technically difficult tech can be since most only have a week to learn the show, or how much management does behind the scenes to make rehearsal and performances run smoothly.” When considering musicals and plays, many people often only credit the actors and actresses. Still, it is individuals like Eddy Olex who ensure that each production runs smoothly behind the scenes.
Another production technician is Karsyn Bishops. As the sound designer, she manages and adjusts the microphones to ensure optimal audio quality. Karsyn opened up about a challenge she faces on set, stating that her biggest challenge on set is, “getting actors to listen to my corrections on projection and consistency”. However, she has learned to overcome this by embracing confidence in her feedback, stating that she is “not scared” to share her opinion.
Although actors have over two months to prepare for the show, the tech team is given less than two weeks to perfect their craft. The technical team is crucial to the storytelling process and creating smooth transitions between scenes that increase the immersive experience for the audience. Their dedication and expertise behind the scenes ensures that each production not only runs smoothly but also leaves a lasting impression on the audience.
Written by Jonathan Chew
Spotlight on Stage: Elf the Musical & More Theater Highlights
Elf: The Musical follows a very similar template set up by the original movie from 2003: Buddy, an orphan who crawled into Santa’s toy sack as a baby, is brought up in the North Pole under the supervision of Santa and his elves. Once Buddy finds out that he himself is not an elf, he sets out on an adventure to find his dad — and whatever other family may be waiting for him — in the “magical land” of New York City. The musical brings all of this and then some, with a new jazzy soundtrack to listen to, fall in love with, and sing along with!
Elf the Musical is showing at Patrick Henry High School from December 5th through the 7th. In other theater news, Atlee just wrapped up their production of Radium Girls which ran from November 21st to the 24th, Mechanicsville hosted one-act auditions in the black box on Wednesday, November 20th, and Hanover also wrapped a show — Mary Poppins — which ran the same as Atlee’s from November 21st to the 24th.
Written by Zach Schoener
