Loomis Chaffee Log FEBRUARY 20, 2014 Founded 1915 Volume XCVIII, No. 6 loomischaffee.org/log Mark Oppenheimer ‘92 visits the Island The debate champion returns to Loomis to hold a discussion with students and faculty NEWS | PAGE 2

ANDREY VDOVENKO ‘16 (LEFT) AND JOHN KIM ‘15 (RIGHT) FEATURE IN WINTER MUSICAL Peer Support in the Arts: LC’s Work in Progress

by Claire Kim ‘14 Opinions Editor

wo questions for you: How often do you go watch a varsity bas- ketball game, a volleyball game, Tor a lacrosse game? And when was the last time you went to a student music performance, an arts opening, or a dance company showcase? At LC, peer support for the arts and music students is considerably dwin- dling as compared with the growing spirited support for the athletics. I want to tell you before anything else that I’m a violinist in the school orches- tra and a varsity fi eld hockey player in the fall. And that means I’m fair. By no means am I telling you to quit going to the games and instead to go watch a con- cert. Instead, I’m asking you for a heck lot more: consider going to both. Remember when our girls volleyball team played in the New England Final this past fall? Remember the Nothing but Nets charity game held by the boys varsity soccer team, the Play for the Cure held by the fi eld-hockey team? Th e school-wide peer support for these events was incredible, inspiring, and well-deserved. School spirit came to life in the sweat earned over hours of train- ing of the athletes, in the unifi ed cheers of the spectators and the fans. Th e last orchestra concert with a full audience that I can remember is the spring concert from my freshman year. My freshman year. Well, let’s see – that’s 1, 2, 3, 4, four springs ago. If I can do this math correctly, around 45 long months ago. In the four years of my LC orches- tra career, I always craved for a good audience, a full, supportive, and well- deserved (we prepare for a whole term for these concerts!) audience whom we can please with a good array of classical music. Beside the orchestra concert, how about the choir concert, the jazz band concert, the student recital samplers, the Acapelican concert? Th ese groups rep- resent the diverse range of musicality in our community, parallel to the myriad of diff erent teams in our athletics. JULIA SONG`15 FOR THE LOOMIS CHAFFEE LOG And oh, I mustn’t forget the art stu- dents. How many of us discovered that one of our friends was an incredible wa- tercolor painter, potter, photographer, and sculptor, aft er going to an arts open- “Hello, and Welcome to Urinetown!” ing show for the fi rst time aft er a couple years of never going to the RAC because Th e NEO’s winter musical promises to enthrall audiences with its provocative you thought you had no interest yourself in the arts? We all have stepped into the storyline about a dystopian society. FEATURES | PAGE 4 CONTINUED ON PAGE 7

Super Bowl ads: Better or Pucker up, It’s Senior Kiss Day!!!! Worse than the Game? A Favorite LC Tradition Is Back For Yet Another Year by Bobby Turner ‘14 I was right, because this year’s Opinions Editor Super Bowl, where Seattle’s fish by Aurelie Liu ‘16 mis Chaffee. Whether it is with a love- market vendors scrimmaged Staff Writer note or a flower, Valentines Day is never hen I think of Super confused Colorado teenagers, truly complete without a kiss. One of Bowl Commercials, did not have any of those kind t’s that time of the year again. Not our long-standing traditions at Loomis I think of feeling un- of awkward moments. Just more only can we see the light at the end of is Senior Kiss Day; a day, as senior Pat Wcomfortable. That’s right: that roll-your-eyes, shake-your-head, winter’s grueling and incessant tun- Dickert eloquently puts it, “when people itchy, sliding around in your and wonder why this is even hap- Inel, we can also see pink hearts and roses get to fulfill their fantasies”. shoes, going to the bathroom pening type commercials. decorating the dining hall and various For this event, the senior class sells for the umpteenth time feeling-- Let’s start with the clas- rooms around campus. Valentines day, kisses (on the cheek!) to the entire school that’s how I feel about Super Bowl sic Budweiser commercial-- as the most exciting or depressing day of for $1 each to raise money for their Prom.

Commercials. Last year seemed sporting and other testosterone- MERCE VILLARREAL`14 FOR THE LOOMIS CHAFFEE LOG the year, is never taken lightly at Loo- to put a stamp on the level of fi lled events go, the Super Bowl Red Lipstick is a Necessity on Senior Kiss Day CONTINUED ON PAGE 5 awkwardness, the pinnacle of the features at least one every single most painful thirty seconds you year. Th is time, they could have will ever see. With Kate Upton’s made it more sappier and corn- Editor’s Picks Mercedes-Benz Car Wash and ier, with an awfully cute Golden Bar Rafaeli’s Go Daddy elongated Retriever forging a relationship smooch, I thought the greatest, with a Clydesdale horse. I couldn’t Potential Schedule LC Swimming’s His- EVLC Hosts Inaugural and certainly most popular sport- believe it – this is beer we’re talk- ing event in western civilization ing Changes toric Victory 3v3 Tournament could not top itself. Thankfully, Lauren Rubino ‘14 comments on proposed As coach of Loomis Chaff ee Swimming You’ve defi nitely seen their fl yers accross SUPER BOWL, PAGE 6 schedule changes for next year, and how and Diving, Fred Seebeck had never de- campus- now learn about the people behind the status quo might be the best option for feated the Big Red from Phillips Exeter Th e Island’s newest club. students and faculty alike. Academy. Th at all changed on February 8. PAGE 6 PAGE 6 PAGE 8 Printed with soy inks on partially recycled paper. Please recycle this publication. NEWS Loomis Chaffee Log PAGE 2 FEBRUARY 20, 2014

Veracross Issue Comes to a Head by Jean lee ‘15 system is one of Veracross’s grade and pay little attention to leges as it is deemed appro- many of these inconveniences son why he uses the system Staff Writer primary benefits. Immediate the teacher’s feedback on area priate, but whether they can and grievances composed by is conveniency. If the grades access to their grades puts ad- for improvement. “I have seen decide their teachers’ work the teachers. It allows for flex- are promptly uploaded on Ve- ver the past couple ditional pressure on students. students who look at the B writ- methods is highly debatable. ibility of which assessments racross, students do not have of years, the Loomis Since there is not a set time ten on top of their paper, sigh, Teachers feel that the students are counted more heavily over to ask the teacher individually Chaffee community when the grades would be up- and throw it away in the recy- should not be given the rights others, and can be used to fit to view their overall grade. Al- Ohas encouraged teachers to use loaded, many students eager to cling bin without even turning to enforce teachers in chang- many complex grading systems though he is happy to answer Veracross, an online grading know their test or quiz grades to the back to see why,” said ing their styles. Many argue of teachers. Also, teachers can questions from students and is database that allows students constantly check their portal an anonymous teacher. Many that teachers should be given control when the grades are ex- more than willing to go over immediate access to their to see if any updates have been teachers strongly prefer to talk freedom in however they want posed to the students; that is, whatever problems they may overall grades as well as scores made. Teachers do not want to students about general areas to work, just like how students teachers may upload the grades have, simply letting the stu- received on assessments. It is dents get direct access to his clear that Veracross has the or her grade is quicker and re- potential to become an ex- quires much less effort. In an traordinary tool for Loomis acdemically challenging setting students; an understanding like Loomis Chaffee, students, of one’s current standing in a passionate about their studies, class is undoubtedly vital to inevitably care very much for showing strong academic per- their grades and achievments. formance. However, not many Having a convenient system teachers are taking advantage like Veracross, according Mr. of it, and many students are Osei-Mensah, would not only thus calling for a more wide- save time for teachers, but also spread application of this on- motivate students to perform line grading book. Thus, the better in school. Student Council has taken the Another argument for imple- initiative to devise a proposal menting the Veracross system to require every teacher to use is that grades should be trans- the Veracross. As with any parent. Students should be new proposal, the suggestion able to address whatever ques- of universal implementation of tions or concerns they may Veracross at Loomis is shroud- have about their grades, and ed in controversy. can even correct their grades if One of the reasons why their teachers made mistakes in teachers are not willing to use recording their grades. “It min- Veracross is that they have in- imizes mistakes and discrep- dividual preferences regard- ancies that may happen while ing grading systems, and a recording the grades,” says Mr. new, forced method of grad- Osei-Mensah. Although teach- ing would drastically change ers are open with their stu- PHOTO COURTESTY OF VERACROSS their work. Some weigh their Faculty use of the Veracross portal has been debated ever since it was introduced dents on where they stand in quizzes and tests differently, on Veracross, but conceal them terms of performance, allow- while many prefer physically students to be burdened by the to improve on about the as- are not forced to study a cer- from students and let them ing students’ direct access to writing the grades down. They extra pressure, uncertainty, and signment before exposing the tain way. Although many prac- see their grades whenever the the grades allow less room for have their own systems of ac- anxiousness that inevitably ac- students to their letter grades. tical advantages support the teacher wants to. mistakes. counting certain percentages companies receiving grades. Teachers want their lessons and mandating of Veracross and the Mr. Osei-Mensah, who teach- Veracross has many advan- of the students’ grades from Teachers do not want the assessments to be focused on support for the proposal grows es Advanced Placement chem- tages and disadvantages, but tests, quizzes or papers, and are students to view their per- students analyzing how to im- every day, application of this istry, explains the advantages of the real issue, that many teach- against the online grading sys- formances on assessments as prove and develop themselves system in real life is and always the Veracross system from the ers perceive, lies on the neces- tem taking that flexibility away simple, numerical grades. For rather than cling to extra one will remain a controversy. perspective of one of the few sity of the system. from them. many students, they only care or two points on their tests. However, many improve- teachers who utilize the system Another reason behind about what effect a certain test Loomis Chaffee gives stu- ments and updates have been on a regular basis. teachers’ opposition to the would have on their overall dents as many rights and privi- made to Veracross that fix The first and foremost rea-

Mark Oppenheimer Speaks for the Common Good by Karen Cha ‘14 debate trophy case, a glass household and having stud- vation. Many students in the points regarding one’s abil- Loomis Chaffee community. Managing Editor cabinet full of plaques, cups, ied his fair share of religion room were surprised when ity to find purpose in life, Mr. Oppenheimer’s question and a few Model UN gavels, in modern culture, Mr. Op- Mr. Oppenheimer opened as he described social media elicited numerous responses n Friday, February about half taglines com- from all spectrums of the Is- 7th, alumnus Mark of which mon to those land, a range of cultural ex- Oppenheimer ’92 are esti- of faith: “Walks periences represented in just Ovisited the Island to con- mated to with Christ,” the short one-hour period. tribute to the month’s Com- belong to “Psalm 27:1,” While Anna Carter ’14 rea- mon Good Dialogue. After the speech even “Saved by soned that because she was a special dinner in the Par- star. In the J-man.” Ac- taking a gap year before col- ton Room with select stu- fact, his cording to the lege, her intentions at Loomis dents and some of Mr. Op- autobi- hundreds of were purely exploratory and penheimer’s previous teach- ography, interviews Mr. academic, others attributed ers and advisors, the group Wisen- Oppenheimer their time on the Island to ful- moved to Founder’s Lounge heimer: A has conducted filling family expectations or to join other members of the Childhood with families the stepping-stone to a high community eager to hear the Subject to of deep reli- quality university. Eventually famed debate star’s commen- Debate, is gious commit- the conversation drew back tary. dedicated ment, the ques- to religion, with several stu- Coordinated by faculty to debate tion, “what is dents such as Julia Song ’15 members Al Friehofer ’69 and coach and your purpose voicing their personal spiri- Eric LaForest, the Dialogue math de- in life?” often tual developments at Loomis, series aims to explore every- partment yields varia- as Mr. Oppenheimer contin- day issues underscoring di- faculty tions of the ued to comment after each versity and community, and Curt Robi- same answer: speaker. The result was an encourage reflection on these son, with “To serve [my] organized and yet fluid dis- topics between both students whom Mr. God.” While cussion, appropriately formal and staff. This particular Oppen- most of the for the faculty in attendance, meeting delved into the role heimer students in but colloquial enough for the of religion as a motivation could be the room, let room to laugh at Billy Hollo- and guiding life purpose, a seen av- alone any per- way ’15’s comical T-shirt. subject that many students idly con- son at Loomis As the Dialogue came to felt they had personal expe- versing or in the world, a close and students raced rience with at home and at at dinner might consider to obtain a copy of Mr. Op- Loomis. Meant to serve as a before the such a ques- penheimer’s autobiography ‘think tank’ of community Dialogue. tion extremely (Charlie Kenney ‘15 celebrat- ideas, these discussions have Since his difficult to an- ed upon receiving the hard- allowed the Center of Com- time at swer, Mr. Op- cover version), Founder’s mon Good to reach out to not Loomis, penheimer dis- Lounge carried the sense of only classes relevant to each Mr. Op- cussed how he subtle resolution. Of course, talk, but also notable alumni penheimer has found that no student could possibly such as Mr. Oppenheimer, has spent religion often have come to answer that fate- who specializes on topics of four more allows people ful original question, “What religion and society. years in to have purpose is the purpose of life?” within Most at Loomis may mis- Connecti- in their lives. those sixty minutes. But both takenly attribute Mr. Oppen- cut earn- He then posed students and staff left the heimer to last year’s all school ing his a similar ques- building with new questions read, Democracy Despite under- Mark Oppenheimer ‘92 PHOTO COURTESY OF MARK OPPENHEIMER tion to the stu- of self-reflection and a greater Itself (co-authored by one graduate up the floor with the ques- dents: “What is your purpose awareness of action—and this Danny Oppenheimer), but degree at Yale University, penheimer was the ideal can- tion, “What’s your Twitter at Loomis?” is precisely what the Com- through his four years at Loo- before moving on to receive didate for the discussion of handle?”, to which a giggling In attendance were Mrs. mon Good Dialoguestrives mis, Mr. Oppenheimer was his Ph.D. in American Reli- the day. Leah Rubin ’14 raised her Grinspan’s Race, Roles, and to achieve. Inspiring students most well known for his im- gious History, gaining col- The beginning remarks of hand and replied, “future ma- Religion classes, several and instilling awareness, Mr. pressive debate record. Adja- umnist and staff positions on the discussion flowed steadily t r i arc h .” speech and debate students, Oppenheimer has once again cent to the window that looks publications from the New from the topic of Twitter de- Mr. Oppenheimer’s cultur- faculty involved with the achieved a trophy-deserving down upon Hubbard Audi- York Times to The Christian scription boxes to parental ally relatable opening then Center for Common Good, moment on the Island. torium sits the speech and Century. Raised in a Jewish influences on personal moti- transitioned into deeper and any other member of the Loomis Chaffee Log FEBRUARYFEBRUARY 20,1, 2012 2014 PAGE 3 Senior Meditations Continue to Thrive by Isabella Epstein ‘16 nal purpose the stage up with the help in the same emotion. Staff Writer and have of the physical plant. Other than inspiring the come to take These are simple, yet community and reflecting on sk any seven year-old on a greater powerful presentations time at Loomis, the Medita- what he or she wants meaning. incredibly influence the tions allow for seniors to ex- to grow up to be, and This event Loomis community. Hav- press themselves, and leave a you’llA probably receive a laundry has become a ing the oldest students lasting mark on the school. list of job titles spanning from time for stu- stand up in front of the en- Senior and state-honored antelope-riding astronauts to dents to not tire school gives younger writer Kassidi Jones, who python-training painters. By age only show- kids exposure and a sense will take the stage in the up- seventeen, most have limited this case their tal- of courage, and even leaves coming Meditation, remarks list into a select few possible life ents, but also the faculty in amazement. that “poetry is cathartic.” Her paths, as years of extra curricular and perhaps Often times, the acts are natural talent and passion activities and academic training most impor- poignant, and seeing how for the art reminds the com- lead us to our individual pas- tantly, re- strongly the students feel munity of others that have sions. During the possible four flect on their towards something is ab- graced the Senior Meditation years career at Loomis Chaffee, individual- solutely moving. It is not stage. students are encouraged to dis- ity. As Rohin rare that a performance In the past years, the Island cover and pursue their passions. Bhargava ‘14 brings the entire audi- has witnessed some amaz- Once a term, the Island states, “It’s ence to its frenzied feet, as ing artistic displays. In terms gathers in convocation to okay to be with violin prodigy Sirena of musical performances, witness the Senior Medita- you in this Huang ‘12 and her unfor- we have seen Dan Wade ‘12 tions. The most seasoned of place. It’s gettable rendition of “Yan- show off both his classical our students display various okay to be kee Doodle.” Mr. Seebeck tenor voice, Liana Fernez ‘12 talents and speak about their you in this emphasizes that he feels display her passion for musi- aspirations, giving perfor- w or l d .” “real awe-in the literal cal theatre, and Alex Buis ‘13 mances that often reflect on In order for sense of the word- awe in with his brilliant and per- their time and growth at Loo- these forty- the talent, and is humbled sonal lyrics to a song of his mis. This custom was intro- five minutes by the experience.” own composition. The musi- duced to us nearly six years to come to- We are all lucky to be cal, artistic, and every other ago by the woman behind it gether, much placed in an environment subject of Meditation is proof all, Head of school Dr. Sheila preparation that celebrates diversity that our seniors have come a Culbert. Her main incentive occurs. This and the various talent that long way in finding and pur- was to give seniors the op- year, Yusuf it unearths. It goes to show suing their passions. There portunity to share the unique Al-Nawkhtha that each person is special, might not still be a laundry activities they love with the ‘14 has taken no matter who they are, list of future jobs and plans, community around them in the lead and how they dress, their race, but there is a more focused order to celebrate their own truly done an religion, or what they love. light for the path ahead. PHOTO COURTESY OF THE LOOMIS CHAFFEE SCHOOL achievements and inspire the outstanding Students performing at Senior Meditations It is a moment when what younger classes. job behind the to find and invite people to fore gathering the equipment one person loves is conveyed But Senior Meditations scenes. perform, (which can be a necessary from the NEO, se- to an audience and for an in- have far exceeded the origi- He contacts the senior class challenging task at times) be- lecting the MC’s, and setting stance they are all indulged

Renovations Around Campus Sweatpants Days vs. Jeans Days by Erika Purdy ‘15 necessary funds. For now, the particularly effective and by Emilie Szemraj‘16 ous fundraising and class bond- pants are a far stretch from the Staff Writer renovations for the SNUG are popular. Second floor reno- Staff Writer ing activities. Having jeans days “neat and groomed” demands of coming from a small pool of vations will revamp the book- is not that much different from the dress code, as they are meant f you have been anywhere money that the school sets shelves and text resources, ometimes there are those the normal dress code, however; to be worn for sports, lounging on campus in the past few aside for campus upkeep. create new study rooms and cold winter mornings when most of us wear colored jeans to around, and plain old comfort. weeks, you have probably “We have to be very pru- classrooms, and update fur- you just want to crawl back classes anyway. The blue jeans They are very different from Inoticed that two major areas of dent in how we use the funds niture and appliances. For Sinto bed and sleep through the seem to be the only setback as the normal clothes we wear to our school are currently under- that we have. But my sense now, the library has only just entire school day. However, they have too much of an asso- classes; though one might get going renovations. The Loomis is that renovating the Snug begun to store books, but classes must carry on, and we ciation with casual atmosphere away with leggings or skinny community—most notably the is urgent and we need to do construction is scheduled to reluctantly roll out of bed and to be seen appropriate to be jeans, sweatpants are an obvious Physical Plant—has put time and something in the short term begin over the summer break, put some preppy clothes on and worn in classrooms. The differ- dress code violation. Their clear effort into remodeling the SNUG while we’re waiting for the if not sooner. walk to class, hoping the day will ence between a jeans day versus difference from the preppy, as well as the second floor of the bigger gift,” said Dr. Cul- The renovations were made warm up a little tomorrow. Our keeping the normal dress code clean style our school wants us Brush Library. While the chang- bert. A future Campus Cen- possible by a gift from the one comfort or a great break- is just a tad bit more casual atti- to show in class is what makes es to the former area are much ter will most likely feature Brush family, the people who away from a normal school day tude. Perhaps this inconsequen- sweatpants days so attractive more noticeable than to the lat- a larger grill and bookstore, initially gave the donation to at such times is a sweatpants or tial difference is why we seem to and rare. Another reason be- ter, particularly because of the but the ongoing renovations build the library in the first jeans day. But as one might have have many more spontaneous hind the rareness of sweatpants nature of the Snug as a hangout will update the ones already place, and who later provided noticed, we do not have as many jeans days than sweatpants days. days is the freedom students for students, both are being com- in place in the SNUG. Several funds for the renovation of sweatpants day as jeans days. Lately we have seen an in- take with them; the sweatpants pletely reworked and reinvented. students are also involved in the first floor. So far, both Jeans and sweatpants seem to crease in sweatpants days, as are usually paired with a t-shirt, The SNUG will be getting a the planning of the new area, the first and third floors have blend into the mutual zone of they have become prizes for sweatshirt, and sometimes, L.L new coat of paint, new furni- and have contributed their been reworked and remod- casual dress, so what is really various school projects and fun- Bean’s signature slippers. Sadly ture, new carpeting, and a new thoughts to the senior girls’ eled, so the second floor is the difference? There is a reason draisers, more often. Groups enough, as the dress code com- layout. Some of the walls will dean, Mary Liscinsky, in the the only space that remains. why we have less sweatpants days like Student Council, class of- mittee has already made the be replaced and reinforced, in hopes that the new space It still remains to be seen then jeans days, and it lies some- ficers, and the Loomis Chaffee rules even clearer, sweatpants order for students to have ac- would reflect a good part of whether or not the second where in the muddled thinking Parent Association has increas- days will likely remain in the cess to a cleaner, more open what the student body would floor will keep its status as a surrounding our dress code. ingly been using sweatpants day minority. space. Head of School, Dr. like to see. The Physical Plant quiet zone, but it’s more than The Loomis Chaffee Student as an incentive for students to For now, jeans days will con- Culbert, said that the changes hopes to finish up the chang- likely that that aspect will not handbook states that “Students participate in various school tinue to be more common. Per- to the SNUG are steps toward es to the SNUG by the end of change. must be well groomed, neat, events and to support differ- haps blue jeans will one day the ultimate goal of building March break. In the future, students can clean, and dressed in clothing ent initiatives, and it clearly has become an appropriate part of a Campus Center, a larger, Only a few hundred meters look forward to an updated appropriate to the occasion” for been successful. Most recently, the class dress. Until then, keep more central area where both away and two flights up, the and remodeled SNUG, which classes. The obvious exception the underclassmen won them- your jeans ready and work with students and faculty can relax second floor of Brush Library will give them a better place to this rule is jeans and sweat- selves a sweatpants day by rais- your class, crossing your fingers and interact with each other. is getting a makeover, as well. to hang out and socialize, and pants days, which have become ing a significant sum of money for a pleasant reward of a sweat- Currently, the school does The first floor was renovated a new second floor will pro- so revered that they are now in- during their annual Penny War pants day! not have the money neces- two years ago, and has expe- vide greater opportunity for centives as class prizes for vari- with the upperclassmen. Sweat- sary to undergo such a large rienced great success. Many an updated workspace. project, and while discus- more students use the area to sions with sponsors are in the study solo or with each other works, it will be a few years on a regular basis, and the before Loomis can obtain the new study rooms have been Write for the Log!

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JUWON JUN ‘14 FOR THE LOOMIS CHAFFEE LOG FEATURES Loomis Chaffee Log PAGE 4 FEBRUARY 20, 2014 Flowers for Futbol EVLC Hits the Courts by Stephanie Yiu ‘14 interest.” PSO Co-President Victo- Staff Writer ria Smith ’14, also approves of the option to have a variety of flowers. by Somil Sanghvi ‘16 village has about 40 kids, and Ekal underclassmen and upperclassmen alentine’s Day began as a Roman Flowers can be collected in the Contributor Vidyalaya delivers education to conference. Then, we began the Catholic feast day, commemorat- dining hall the day before and these villages for $1 a day. No joke. recruiting. We got Sam Roy, Aid- ing the life of Valentius, a Roman the day of Valentine’s Day. Victo- ontrary to what you may Right now, Ekal Vidyalaya helps an Dunlavey, Liam O’Brien, Mike Vmartyr in 3rd Century A.D. He was a ria says, “I think that it is a great think, we do like babies. 1.5 million kids in 54,000 schools Cerny (aka the Public Relations Christian priest who healed a jailer’s event because it gives a little love You’ve definitely seen across India. Coordinator), and Justin Legowski daughter from blindness. When he fell in and support to the Loomis Chaffee atC least one of the flyers we had So, I (with Marcus Witherspoon to help out, just to name a few of love with her, the jailer imprisoned him. community while also raising placed around campus, showing and a couple other people) decided the amazing people who contrib- Before he was executed, he left a note for money for a great foundation to pictures of Uncle Sam, of babies, to create a club here at Loomis, an uted. And then I talked to Dean the girl, thus beginning the card-giving help others.” Why not buy one and of Antoine Dodson. Actually, extension, to help promote aware- Donegan about really creating this, tradition. for someone and watch him or her someone that was helping me had ness and raise money for this cause. and booked it. Now, Valentine’s Day has retail- smile? the brilliant idea of placing one of A little before Winter Break, I re- This tournament we’re having is ers reeling in money by selling Val- If happiness isn’t enough, PSO is those above a urinal (of guys, obvi- read a comment of Mr. Taylor’s from on February 22nd, Saturday, from entine’s Day cards and chocolates also donating the profits to Kicks ously) and in the inside of the stall my report card the year prior. In it, about 6ish to 8:30ish. I stalked all for the yearly tradition. The typi- for Kids, an organization Abby doors in some of the bathrooms. he mentioned how Chynna Bailey the sports teams and saw that ev- cal action is to send your signifi- Sotomayor ’16 and Michelle Choi Well, all of this “fun” (if that’s and I made a presentation about the eryone, besides Boys Varsity Hock- cant other a dozen of roses. But, ’16 suggested to PSO. Abby states, what you want to call it) stuff we NBA and the 18th century Salmon ey, would be back to school before have done was actually pretty hard. Brook people. That made me start 6:00. It is co-ed, but not inter- It involved talking to the Deans, to think, why not do something grade, and the winners (meaning ticking one of them off, going to similar (with basketball) with my either the under or upperclassmen the Business Office, then finding club? So I talked to Marcus, and we champions) win shirts with their out I didn’t have to go there, and thought the idea was pretty dope. names on the back (fancy, right?), just a bunch of really random use- I emailed a couple people, never a shout-out at the next convoca- less meetings. So what exactly is got a response, and then went to tion, and their grades would get this for, you might ask, and what visit them. Mr. Frei, Dean Barker, a sweatpants day. It is $3 per per- the heck is EVLC? Well…EVLC Sarah Regan, and Mrs. Lombardo son, so $9 per team to play. I re- stands for Ekal Vidyalaya Loomis were a few of the people we went ally hope that we can raise enough Chaffee. Ekal Vidyalaya (Eyy-call to meet. The idea was received in money to contribute more to this Vid-ya-lay-ah) is an organization interesting ways, being called both amazing cause, and have a bit of (in India, you can probably guess, “puny” and “huge.” Finally, after non-Olympic caliber fun. And yes! because you can’t pronounce it) we got back from break, we began Babies are so cute—how could you that sponsors education for the planning a bit. We came up with not like them? underprivileged children living in the idea of having four brackets, the rural villages of India. Each each being a grade, and holding an Urinetown: The Musical by Derek Martinez ‘16 and others employed by the school) from a lake or stream is not your Contributor live in areas currently faced with wa- own. He believes, to get clean and ter shortages or scarcity in today’s adequate water supplies to the mass- s far as selections for the world. This number will not become es, water should be privatized. To Winter Musical at Loomis any smaller. In fact, it will continue him, human beings having a public Chaffee goes, Urinetown: to grow. By 2025, 1.8 billion people right to water is an extreme solution AThe Musical is different to say the will be living in countries or regions to a water crisis. least. A satirical comedy based in with absolute water scarcity. Sound familiar? Such ideas and a futuristic setting, Urinetown tells If you think these facts are scary, philosophies border very closely to the story of a town thrown into chaos let’s take a trip to Vevey, Switzer- themes in Urinetown: The Musical. by a twenty-year drought, where res- land, where the well-known compa- Water shortages, tainting of water, ervoirs have dried up, and as a result ny Nestlé is headquartered. In 2005, and water scarcity are in no way is- private toilets have become utterly Nestlé’s CEO Peter Brabeck released sues the is exempt from. unthinkable. With nowhere else to a video interview where he said “Wa- In states such as Pennsylvania, hy- turn to, citizens must literally pay ter is of course the most important draulic fracturing, or “fracking”, for to pee at public ame- natural gas (a process NATHA SINGHASANEH ‘14 FOR THE LOOMIS CHAFFEE LOG nities, or bathrooms, that involves pumping which are run by the a mix of water, sand, “Why should I?” Tradition is the “Michelle and I both love soccer giant, cruel, and mo- dangerous chemicals, main reason for why we give flow- and believe that kids should have nopolizing corpora- and other substances ers to loved ones on Valentine’s the opportunity to play the beau- tion, the Urine Good into the ground at high Day; flowers express gratitude and tiful game despite their circum- Company, or UGC pressure to crack shale love to your dear ones. stances. We want to share the joy for short. The conse- or other rock forma- This year, Loomis Chaffee once of the game with everyone, espe- quence of not paying tions to release natural again presents its annual carna- cially with the children who will to pee is scary and gas) is a highly con- tion sales. This event began ten appreciate it the most.” wrapped in obscu- troversial topic. Cheap years ago by an alumna, Katy Nov- Kicks for Kids is part of the “One rity – anyone who natural gas, and there- wiceski, a previous president of World Futbol Project” to create in- doesn’t pay to relieve fore energy, comes at a PSO (Pelican Service Organiza- destructible soccer balls. A lot of himself or herself cost. In Pennsylvania tion). They used to sell chocolates children in third world countries gets arrested and alone, over 6,000 frack- as well, and initially they donated have to improvise, inventing their promptly shipped ing wells exist, however the profits to sponsor dinners for own balls by tying together bottles off to the mysterious minimal safeguards are homeless shelters in Hartford. and shirts. When they do get their place known as “Uri- in place to protect the When asked about her thoughts on hands on balls, they don’t last very netown”. environment from such the event, PSO Co-President Eli- long in the conditions they play Although the mu- gas-extracting process- ana Zhou ’14 said, “buying a car- in, as the balls are easily ruined in sical and its Broad- es. nation for someone is a great way dirt and on rocks. way Actors have Water privatization, for people to show their apprecia- Abby and Michelle are teaming been nominated for water shortage, po- tion and love for their friends.” up with Asante Ana, an organiza- numerous Tony and litical corruption, and PSO hosts Carnation sales in the tion with connections to schools Drama Desk Awards social responsibility dining hall and in dorms during and orphanages in Tanzania and and won a few in- are all themes of Uri- the week of Valentine’s Day. They will ship the soccer balls over- cluding the 2002 netown: The Musical, keep the prices low, selling them seas for them. Abby comments, Tony Award for Best and although they are for only a dollar to give the stu- “We are eager and excited to get Original Score and grossly exaggerated in dents and faculty an opportunity this idea rolling, and the carna- the 2002 Theatre the production itself, is to buy something special for the tion sales will help with the initial World Award, the the plot of Urinetown important people in their lives. funding. We are very thankful of plot of this extrava- really that different Each flower also comes with a PSO for helping us immensely.” gant and perplex- from the world we live special note that you write for the Show your friends you love them ing production of- JULIA SONG`15 FOR THE LOOMIS CHAFFEE LOG in today? Urinetown is receiver. Furthermore, the flowers by sending them carnations! Ms. ten raises questions “Urinetown” runs from February 18-22 in the NEO Theater not a musical where you come in a variety of colors. Un- Lombardo describes the event as a about the musical’s reasonableness. raw material we have today in the will walk out of the theater and say fortunately, there’s limited stock-- “wonderful mid-winter ice breaker In actuality, Urinetown is not so world. It’s a question of whether we “Oh, how cute!” or “I’m so happy PSO will sell only 200 flowers this and a feel good all around event. It extreme. Water is what I like to call a should privatize the normal water they found each other in the end.” year. Although carnations aren’t gives us the opportunity to share “high-risk commodity”; in our world supply for the population… The one Urinetown will take the dirty facts the most traditional type of flower love, warmth and kindness to our today, whoever controls or attempts opinion, which I think is extreme, is of life, wrap them up in a wonder- around Valentine’s Day, they are friends and colleagues.” Sending a to control water controls life. If you represented by the NGOs who bang ful musical score and story, and hurl one of most the beautiful kinds of carnation will definitely make oth- are currently reading this, chances on about declaring water a public them back at you with the force of flowers. ers happy, and sometimes showing are you merely need to turn a knob right. That means that as human be- a mountain lion. So I ask each and Would you rather stick with Loo- that you care is all people really for water to flow from your faucet ing you should have a right to water.” every one of you who are coming to mis’s traditional carnations, or do need. or showerhead or hose. However, Peter Brabeck is saying that wa- see our fun-filled, fascinating per- you think it would be better to have around 1.2 billion people, roughly ter is not an inalienable right. He is formance: Is Urinetown really just an assortment of flowers? Eliana a number over a million times the declaring the water that falls in your a musical, a future far away… or a states, “it could be very possible number of Loomis Chaffee affiliates yard as rain or the groundwater you reality today? next year if people show enough (including students, faculty, staff, get from a well or the water you use Loomis Chaffee Log FEBRUARY 20, 2014 PAGE 5 Senior Kiss Day LC Robotics Gets CONTINUED FROM PAGE ONE in Gear all everyone wins: Se- kiss day is the only reason I by Xana Pierone ‘16 left before the next competition, to build a robot such as creativ- niors get to gush over wake up every morning,” di- Contributor wish the robotics team luck for the ity, and most importantly, inter- their kiss list and all vulges Sophomore Isabel big day on March 1st. est. Jeremy Brezenoff ‘16 stated, other students get to Hanson. “I’ve been waiting o an outsider, the world Along with building a competi- “Personally, I find the whole idea have their dreams come for this day since the first of robotics appears to be a tion robot, the members of the Ro- of building a mechanized vehicle true,” laughs Senior time I stepped onto campus.” secret society of geniuses botics team can work on their own and programming it to do vari- Caitlin Farrell. The senior class has put dedicatedT to the creating robots personal project, such as learn- ous tasks fascinating. In a way, it’s During Lunch, stu- in a lot of effort into mak- with the sole intention of taking ing basic programming, or even like making a little life form that dents will convene in ing this event a success. “It’s over the world. While this may working with Legos. The world of one can change at will and adjust the upperclassman din- a fun way for the seniors to be a captivating plot for a sci-fi robotics is exciting, and some may as necessary.” Although robotics ing hall to brave the celebrate Valentines Day-- novel, it is far from real- may seem daunting hilariously awkward you can expect some hilari- ity. The Robotics team is to a new student, or kisses delivered by our ous moments” shares Senior a group of invested and anyone who is not the Seniors. The senior girls like John Furlong. Along with the intelligent individuals strongest in the sci- You can buy a kiss for yourself or to sport bright red lipstick excitement of the universal working together with ence department, the for a friend, all in good spirit and so they can leave their mark day of love, Senior Kiss Day technology to create a best way to determine of course, true love. “Senior on their targets, particularly is a great time to forget about machine. This concept whether or not the Kiss Day is one of those tra- those unsuspecting fresh- the stress of everyday work seems easy enough, but club is right for you is ditions you experience your man boys. It is definitely and revel in the joys of tradi- the amount of effort and to try it out. freshman year at Loomis and fun to watch boys wander tion. Whether you are await- time put into this cre- Robotics teaches look forward to participating around uncomfortably with ing a kiss from the person of ation is astounding. problem solving, ba- in your senior year,” explains their blushing faces covered your dreams or hoping to see Although building a sic programming, Senior Elise Browchuk. Boys in red lipstick. Although all your friend’s reaction to the competition robot is the and thinking outside can kiss boys and girls can exchanges are supposed to kiss you deviously bought for not sole purpose of the of the box. Building a kiss girls, so don’t hold back! be kept strictly PG, the spirit them, make sure to come sup- Robotics Club, competi- robot is a task that re- Each senior will be given a list of Valentines Day cannot al- port the senior class in their tions are important as they quires determination, of people to kiss and they will ways be tamed. Innumerable efforts of making this Valen- require a lot of focus and focus, and communi- effort. Loomis Chaffee re- ty. Jeremy comments, cently won the Connecti- “Robotics is more cut FIRST Tech Challenge than just building Qualifying Event--The and programming a LC Shakedown, and the robot. Yeah, that’s the Loomis Chaffee robot- big picture, but there’s ics team, Team Hax, ad- so much more than vanced to the Connecti- that. We (the club) cut State Championship. are a community, al- “Everyone gets involved most a family. We joke SARA GERSHMAN ‘14 FOR THE LOOMIS CHAFFEE LOG at tournaments whether it Cam Nelson ‘14 around, we have argu- is driving the robot, scout- ments, and we mess up. ing other teams’ robots, or making wonder, “Who can join?” I asked But in the end we’re still ready to small adjustments to our robot,” some of the members what it takes help each other.” Now, you know commented Jason Liu ’17. Just to be a part of the team. Summitt that robotics deals with problem by talking to the members of the Liu ‘14 answered, “Robotics is solving, computer programming, team, it is apparent how proud open to anyone and everyone, but and in-depth thinking. But more and accomplished they feel for there does seem to be a predomi- importantly, you now know that their recent success, but it is also nant computer science interest robotics produces a sense of unity apparent how determined they are with many of the members.” Com- that stems from working together to bring even more energy for the puter science plays an important and relying on one another. next event. With a couple weeks factor, but other skills are needed

MERCE VILLARREAL ‘14 FOR THE LOOMIS CHAFFEE LOG Caitlin Farrell ‘14 smooches fellow Senior Lauren Rubino tines Day a memorable day. try to follow it to the best of pictures will be snapped and As Senior Jenny Li elaborates, Finding Zen on the Island their abilities, although track- forever be kept as a souvenir “people should expect a day ing down each person in the to this momentous occasion. of love and joy as we leave by Natasia Nabila ‘16 yoga skills and moves her stu- Yes, it helps to be flexible in Yoga midst of the frenzied crowd Freshman girls will be squeal- our final marks, literally, on Staff Writer dents. After attending her Yoga but it is not easy at all.” These two of blushes and giggles does ing in fits of excitement and the school!” sessions, students claim that they seniors’ experience with yoga al- tend to be a challenge. “All in dreams will be made. “Senior t is an undeniable fact that feel relaxed and at peace after low them to illuminate common Loomis students lead hec- conquering difficult postures. stereotypes and shed light on the tic lifestyles. Sometimes we According to senior Harriet misapprehensions of Yoga. Ibury ourselves in piles of home- Cho, the best benefit she expe- Where can I do Yoga if I am work for hours without rest. rienced after sessions with Mrs. not able to join Mrs. Moran’s Through the stress of classes— Moran was that “I no longer get sessions or those of the LC Yoga often 6 days a week, a constant muscle aches anymore.” If you club’s? The answer is simple— Pelican Spirit in the D.R. stream of homework that piles are a student participating in an you can always do Yoga by your-

by Michelle Choi ‘15 clude practicing Spanish over so fun. Everyone there was Staff Writer breakfast, heading over to the so friendly and welcoming project site, working until and it was amazing to watch he Center for Global about 4 pm alongside the fam- the whole community come Studies’ trip to the Do- ily and local volunteers, shar- together to help one family. minican Republic is ing a traditional lunch with Seeing the bonds form be- amongstT the most popular trip the community, and a dinner tween members of our group options that the department of- at a different local restaurant and the kids there was truly fers. With this year’s anticipated each night. Each day, how- incredible. When we left, we temperatures between 71 and 83 ever, there will be a special saw how thankful the family degrees Fahrenheit, the trip will learning opportunity or ac- was and knew we were chang- be the perfect escape from the tivity to take part in. On one ing the lives of the people long, freezing winter of Wind- day there will be a tour of the who had next to nothing. It sor, Connecticut. town’s most recent develop- was an unforgettable experi- Led by Mrs. Nisselson and ment efforts and projects hav- ence.” Another member of Mr. Dial, the team will set off ing to do with solar energy, last year’s DR trip, Lindsey on an early morning flight microfinance, and biofiltra- Kendall ’15, tells of how much out of Bradley International tion systems. Baseball games, the DR changed her perspec- Airport on March 6th to the local river swims, and a final tive. “What impacted me the MERCE VILLARREAL ‘14 FOR THE LOOMIS CHAFFEE LOG beautiful Santo Domingo, dinner celebration of the fin- most from the trip was see- up the minute it is cleared out— interscholastic winter sport but self or with your friends any- Dominican Republic. Fresh ished home will cap off their ing the selflessness of all the often the stress damages our would like to practice Yoga too, where, anytime! All you need faced and ready to go, the work days as they head off to community members. People minds, and most importantly, you’re in luck! Two LC seniors to do is to bring your Yoga mat Pelicans will embark on an Playa Real. would come to help us build our happiness. That is where Shannon Deveney and Sarah Re- with you. Try some funky pos- exciting exploration of the A gorgeous beach commu- the house even if they didn’t yoga comes in. gan have pioneered an LC Yoga es, and it is completely okay to country from the moment nity on the Caribbean Sea, know the family or didn’t When we fret or worry, we Club. They believe that Yoga can fall (or fail), because it’s quality their flight lands. Santo Do- Playa Real in Juan Dolio will even a house of their own. stress. Stress affects everyone to release inner inhibitions. Shan- time. And try Shannon’s favorite mingo, a UNESCO world her- be the final destination for the People would come every day specific degrees, and, since ev- non reveals the significance of move, the Parivrtta Parsvako- itage site and the oldest con- LC crew before heading back and do whatever they could, eryone has different resistance Yoga in her life, “It reminds me nasana, which is also known as tinuously inhabited European to Connecticut. There, a cata- whether that be bringing levels to stress, his or her immu- that I can really control my- the revolved side angle pose. It’s settlement in the Americas, maran ride will take the Peli- other members drink, mak- nity system collapses at different self. It is a restorative measure.” basically a forward lunge posi- will be the home of 15 Loo- cans to Saona Island, where ing lunch for everyone, or rates. Ultimately, if we do not With this positive outlook, she tion with an upper body twist. mis Chaffee members as they they will beach and snorkel helping build the house it- seek alternatives to relax and re- wishes students to find meaning It challenges your balance and learn and practice Spanish, all afternoon long. The final self. It definitely made me a cuperate, our body becomes vul- and strength in Yoga. The club flexibility. But if you want to bond as a group, and explore morning will be spent at Playa lot more appreciative and in- nerable to illnesses, and in worry meets once a cycle at 7:00AM for choose some safer options, you the city. Real as they say their fare- spired me to give back. The of permanent lack of homeo- about 50 minutes in both fall and can always do calming postures From Santo Domingo, Jose, wells to the DR. community members came stasis. To avoid this undesirable spring term. such as the Shavasna (the nap a Cambiando Vidas guide, The trip’s popularity is no to help us simply because complication, we can choose There are several ubiquitous posture: you just lie on the mat will lead the students to San surprise after asking any Do- they wanted to help fulfill the to seek comfort or relief in cer- myths on Yoga in our society with your eyes closed). Juan de la Maguana, where minican Republic trip veteran dreams of another family. I tain activities. For many Loomis even though they are not nec- Simply put, Yoga acts as a cop- they will spend five work how wonderful the experi- hope one day I can be as giv- Chaffee yogis, Yoga is the one essarily true. “I feel like people ing mechanism for athletes, or- days building a home. The ence was. Tessa Lightfoot ’15 ing as them.” Not only do the true answer to their problems. think that if you do Yoga, you dinary students, teachers, par- family recipient of the home shares her most memorable students come back to the Is- Yoga is available as a club have to like green tea. I hate ents—basically everybody. So is chosen by a lottery system, part of the experience. “My land with a glorious tan, but sport during winter term. The green tea,” declares Sarah. Shan- don’t be afraid and try out the and they are always incred- favorite part was definitely also return with a heightened students meet three days a week non, on the other hand, eluci- inspiring and incredible activ- ibly grateful, welcoming, and building the house—spending sense of community and new, for an hour. Mrs. Bobbi Moran, dates a general misconception, ity in order to feel the yogis’ friendly. time with the locals and get- strong friendships. the yoga instructor, is a Yoga en- “ Yoga is thought of as an easy high. A typical work day will in- ting to know the family was thusiast who cheerfully imparts activity for flexible people only. OPINION Loomis Chaffee Log PAGE 6 FEBRUARY 1, 2012

John Furlong ‘14 and Juwon Jun ‘14 Editors in Chief Karen Cha ‘14 and Harriet Cho ‘14 Managing Editors Loomis Chaffee Log Shannon Deveney‘14 Director of Design Marco Rodarte Faculty Adviser Fred Mun ‘14 and John Kim ‘15 News Section Founded 1915 Quinn Schoen ‘14 and Eliana Zhou ‘14 Features Section Claire Kim ‘14 and Bobby Turner ‘14 Opinion Section ABOUT Alexandra Smith ‘14 and Madison Peterson-Porta ‘15 Sports Section Caroline Wattles ‘14 and Michael Carter ‘15 Writer’s Melange The Loomis Chaffee Log is Loomis Chaffee’s official student newspaper. We can be found online at www. loomischaffee.org/log and we can be contacted via email at [email protected]. Letters to the editor Laura Paddock ‘14, Sara Gershman ‘14, Merce Villareal ‘14, and op-ed piece submissions are welcomed via email. The Log reserves the right to edit all letters and Natha Singhasaneh ‘14, Julia Song ‘15 Graphics & Photo Editors pieces for brevity and content. The views expressed in the Log do not necessarily reflect those of The Loomis Chaffee School. Unsigned editorials represent the collective views of the Editorial Board. Maisie Campbell ‘15 and Krystal Sung ‘15 Web Editors

John Fundock ‘14 and Paul Nguyen ‘14 Business Managers ADVERTISING Advertising rates can be found at www.lclog.org/advertising. To advertise in the Log, please contact the Staff Writers Jean Lee ‘15, Michelle Choi ‘16, Aurelie Liu ‘16, Natasia Nabila ‘16, Sam Business Managers listed to the right. Cox ‘16, Stephanie Yiu ‘14, Kelsey Duffy ‘15, Erika Purdy ‘15, Hannah McCarthy Pot- ter ‘16, Thomas Lam ‘14, Isabella Epstein ‘16, Emilie Szemraj ‘16, Lauren Rubino ‘14

Published by the Loomis Chaffee School, Windsor, CT. Contributors Derek Martinez ‘16, Isabelle Raposo ‘15, Somil Sang- hvi ‘16, Xana Pierone ‘16, Charlie Kenney ‘15. Summitt Liu ‘14

BOBBY TURNER ‘14 OP-ED “When is This Over?” A football fan’s candid overview of the Super Bowl commercials CONTINUED FROM PAGE ONE of the man makes it that funny. thick and creamy Greek yogurt. wrong, that stuff is good, but re- end, of course, is “We don’t like stealing any and everything out This commercial was the only In the classic, flirtatious game of ally? Isn’t that just a step or two compromise, either,” or some- of an electronics store, didn’t one where I really felt like it “get the yogurt off John Stamos’ too far? When has yogurt ever thing like that to show a bright really make that much sense. I about! Beer, not Hallmark! This wasn’t over the top or sappy. lips without using your hands,” I had a connotation of seduction? red Audi speeding through think of Radio Shack as a fine one seemed to retailer, not wor- top the charts for thy of such a low bending the laws mark. It’s like the of advertising, as 80’s was bad or in “How much something. can we stretch With all our marketabil- these ridiculous ity?” With that commercials, one, I just rolled even the Coca- my eyes and Cola “America” grabbed another or the Cheerios loaded nacho. one, there’s a I did, how- simple mes- ever, get a hearty sage: “How do chuckle from we get the audi- one of the first ence to pay the commercials closest atten- – the time ma- tion in as little chine Doritos time as possible one. A man ca- for the greatest sually accepts a chance of them child’s cardboard spending money time machine at one of our while munch- stores?” Well, in ing on a hefty that sense, these bag of Doritos. commercials did He then gets vi- it justice, with ciously shaken just plain crazy, in the “time ma- melodramatic, chine,” only to or outright ri- be abandoned diculous clips by the child and strewn over one screamed at by of the worst Su- the old person per Bowl games who so hap- PHOTO COURTESY OF RESPECTIVE COMPANIES in history. It pened to be the owner of the If you wanted over-the-top slunk down in the couch, grimac- There were some others that the abandoned streets of some seems like these advertisements yard of the cardboard. Of course, and sappy, look no further than ing at how much they seemed come to mind, like the “Do- sprawling metropolis. It’s just so just keep getting progressively the deranged man thinks the old the John Stamos Oikos Greek yo- to be enjoying themselves. Of berhuahua” Audi commercial, much for one little phrase. But, more ridiculous, and I don’t see man is the boy, commencing a gurt ad. You know, the guy from course, it was ruined by two where it shows a breed between I guess that’s what you have to an end to this trainwreck of a plethora of giggles and guffaws. Full House? This one consisted guys from SERVPRO needing to a Doberman and a Chihuahua do to rake in the big bucks. The trend. Maybe if the actual game With this one, yes, of course it of John and his female signifi- clean up the industrial sized spill increasingly wreak havoc on hu- Radio Shack ad, or the montage just got better? is ridiculous, but the stupidity cant other, in the kitchen over a of Vanilla Yogurt. Don’t get me manity. The punch line at the of stereotypical 1980s characters

LOG STAFF EDITORIAL

Isf you clickit “News” Necessary on Google, that bad? Does he really to Actually Deport Justinfoolery. Bieber? An eighteen- ner, the way he carries himself, chances are you’ll find some- need to get deported? year-old boy will make and his overall aura seems to di- thing about Justin Bieber. Let’s take a ride down poor choices, but to minish the charm that is America. IThat’s right, J-Beebs, Bieba Baby, memory lane folks, to make disastrous mis- In addition, he may even be a safe- or even The Bieb. After jump- 2008. Justin Bieber, just take after disastrous ty hazard to a number of children ing the border into the land of a young, innocent four- mistake is just plain and adults, which would result in opportunity, Justin has been in- teen-year-old YouTuber, ludicrous. Gaining nothing good. His dangerous and creasingly exploiting his fame belting out pop song af- that insurmountable reckless approach to life serves no and enjoying himself a little too ter pop song. When he amount of fame at that purpose in the US, and for that much. When we say “too much,” slowly started piling up age cannot be a good reason, his utter mischief must be we mean we could not share the views, and talent- thing, and clearly, with taken to his native country: Can- the information in this article seeker Scooter Braun more and more of his ada. without getting major backlash. began watching, listen- personal life and mis- It may be a little strong to send Let’s just say he’s not getting a ing, and actively pursu- fortunes reaching the Justin Bieber, a heartthrob to tight eight hours every night. ing Bieber, pieces fell Internet. On the other countless young women in the US, Remember, this little gremlin is into place and Justin got hand, Bieber himself to his native homeland, but that’s Canadian, not American. That’s himself a record deal. has done really noth- exactly what needs to be done. why, in one of more recent she- So, perhaps Mr. Braun is ing to better his image, Sure, he could still perform in nanigans with the news, people the one to blame for all with suggestive pho- Canada, enjoy recreational drugs, (individuals with sanity), began of this, but let’s not get tos on his Instagram, party till the break of dawn, and discussing the idea that this child ahead of ourselves. After Twitter, and even Tum- even speak to a delusional group should be deported. Sent back to he landed this sweet deal blr. Add up all of these of teenage girls. But here’s the Canada. Moreover, this petition at the ripe age of four- factors and you’ve got thing – it’s all north of the border! was signed by over 10,000 people, teen, Bieber, at a very yourself a fresh peti- With his trouble kept in the north- which made it worthy of a closer rapid rate, gained popu- tion at the doorstep of ern country, America will rid itself look by the White House, a.k.a. larity and was featured D.C. Add all of these of a massive blemish in the face Obama. Like Obama needs one on talk show after talk up, and you’ve got ba- of pop culture, an elf with tattoos more thing to worry about – now show. After he released sically every article on running around cities at night he’s got people hollering from his first album, he began TMZ. With all of this screaming his hit songs. And plus, all directions demanding Bieber touring across the coun- PHOTO COURTESY OF AP IMAGES happening in America, Canada needs the excitement, be removed from the 50 states, try. Consider this – long hours on of screaming girls and odd older certainly, but there comes to point and not Canada, Bieber seems to anyways. What else do they have? back to Ontario. So, this begs the the road, no real parental guid- gentleman for massive amounts of when a teenager needs to be con- be bringing a lot of negative atten- question – is Justin Bieber really ance, singing in front of thousands money. This does sound very nice, fronted and let known of his tom- tion to the United States. His man- FEBRUARY 20, 2014 PAGE 7 Loomis Chaffee Log PAGE 7 FEBRUARY 20, 2014

KELSEY DUFFY ‘15 OP-EDLAUREN RUBINO ‘14 Perfecting the Prefect Different, Not Permanent: Changes to LC’s Calendar System fter faculty members in- With Loomis students already Fest celebration, a carnival-like famously voted in favor having to balance a tight sched- event seen as a kickoff to summer, A day student offers a hopeful outlook of retaining Saturday ule of school, sports, and other and also an event where Loomis classesA for the 2014-15 school extracurricular activities, an extra seniors frequently made a large year, it looks like endless Satur- four hours of school on infrequent portion of their funds for prom. on LC’s initiative in offering a new way day sleep-ins will not happen Saturdays seems far more appeal- However, the pros of early gradu- anytime soon. When I spoke ing than the other option. Despite ation seem to heavily outweigh of integrating day student leadership with Student Council Calendar what many students would prob- the cons. Loomis functions much Committee member Yusuf Aln- ably say, Loomis actually does like a college or university with its awakhtha ‘14, he noted the abun- not have many Saturday classes. heavy workload, expectations and into the boarding community dance of support for Saturday With multiple Saturday classes requirements. Th erefore, the ar- ach spring, dozens of peers as boarders do without liv- younger students who I normally classes. However, many teachers cancelled throughout the year, LC gument can be made that students hopeful and well-quali- ing together seems to be the crux wouldn’t have the opportunity to and students are in favor of re- students have Saturday classes far working at a college level should fied sophomores nervous- of the doubt behind all the debate. meet through sports and classes. ducing the amount of Saturday less than every other week as is so also be rewarded with college lyE hand in applications and sit Current Kravis prefect Fletcher I was lucky and had a lot of older classes during the school year, widely assumed. level vacation, something that is through interviews in hopes of Lent ’15 says, “I do not believe friends on my sports teams, but with the recent faculty vote rec- Another hotly debated issue included in early graduation. being selected as prefects. A se- that day students could do the I know a lot of people don’t have ommending 8 Saturday classes a for the Loomis Chaff ee Calender Despite the overwhelming ap- lect few are given the opportuni- kind of work that prefects do in that.” Many argue that although year compared to the eleven on Committee is early graduation. proval for Early Graduation, ty to mentor, support, and guide the dorms. I don’t think the day peer counselors off er support and the 2013-2014 schedule. How- When I talked with faculty mem- there is no guarantee that it will underclassmen for an entire year. students fully understand the advice, a system that is designed ever, there are still many who ber Fred Seebeck, he noted that be standard practice in the years Not only are prefects respected, time commitment and that be- to create a more systematic and do not see Saturday classes as many students and faculty have to come, as Dr. Culbert and the but also they are expected to ing a prefect entails being there offi cial big brother and big sister a problem that needs to be ad- yearned for early graduation ever Trustees will have the fi nal say set positive examples of how for the dorm all the time, not just relationships, like the prefect sys- dressed, but rather a necessary since he fi rst came to Loomis over on both the removal of Saturday to deal with everything Loo- when your parents agree to pick tem, would greatly benefi t the day evil given Loomis’s generous va- thirty years ago. One of the main classes and early graduation. Th is mis might throw at you: tough you up late at night.” student population. cation times, as well as maintain- benefi ts of early graduation (be- year and next may serve as time courses, tiring sports practices, A clear obstacle of establishing In addition, for those who ing LC’s academic rigor. sides the obvious reality of having for trial runs for both early gradu- or trouble with friends. But all of this system is defi nitely going to worry that the addition of these As noted previously, the issue an early start to summer) is that ation and the elimination of Sat- these, from the authority to the be fi guring out a system that will prefects and inclusion of day of Saturday classes has many dif- all seniors do not have to take fi - urday classes, where both could drama, are usually associated off er freshmen and sophomores students in dorm events will cut ferent aspects to it, but overall, I nal exams; in the past, seniors either continue or be eliminated. with boarders only --- perhaps the opportunity to create a strong down dorm-exclusive occasions, feel that Saturday classes should could only be exempt from fi nal However, seeing that most faculty no longer. bond with their prefects, using Gabby says, “We’re not taking stay at Loomis based on the sole exams if they had a B+ or higher and students are in favor of early Th is year in student council, other means other than late-night away exclusive dorm events, but fact that it’s better than the alter- grade average in a class. However, graduation and opposed to the the prospect of opening up the talks in the dorm or dorm activi- we’re creating new ones involving native options. If Saturday classes as with any change, there are some new schedule, it looks like stu- prestigious position of prefect to ties. Furthermore, we will need a both day students and boarders to were eliminated, the daily sched- drawbacks to the prospect of early dents may very well be graduating day students came to light, and system that can tie together these encourage integration.” ule would most likely be extended graduation. With the 2014 Com- in May from now on without hav- ideas began to circulate of creat- new prefects, as well as the under- Although viewpoints on this by twenty minutes, include three mencement taking place on May ing to deal with the stress of three ing a day student prefect system. classmen, into an existing dorm. campus change diff er vastly, the doubles per day, and have the 25th, seniors will have graduated doubles per day. Gabby Roncone ’15 has been While the prefects must establish prospect of more cohesion of the majority of gap periods removed. before Loomis’s annual Spring- heading this project since the themselves in positions of author- day students with the boarders start. ity, they must also be accessible to seems to have little negative con- “Th e House committee wants their prefectees. sequences. Yes, the relationships to use this proposal not only to When asked about the tough- formed in dorms over Domino’s give new day students emotional est part of being a prefect, Sierra and late-night chats with dorm support through a big-brother, Semmel ’15, a prefect in Carter, mates may not be able to be quite big-sister program, but we also says, “It’s sometimes tough to resembled, but the addition of want to use the day student pre- walk the line between being au- new prefects will only add to the fects to help with day student in- thoritative to them and just being existing leaders in dorms. Could tegration into the boarding com- friends, and balancing that is a Loomis take on this new chal- munity. Th e day student prefects’ challenge.” Day student prefects lenge to fi nally close the gap be- presence at community events will have to fi nd other ways to tween the day and the boarding would help relieve the dorm establish this balance without the populations? Could there fi nally heads of extra work while day granted job to give 7’s or remind- be no denominations in the stu- students are included in certain ers on dorm work jobs. dent body, but a truly integrated events that they otherwise would Despite these complications, whole? Th e system may not be not be invited to,” says Gabby. much of the community agrees perfected soon and is certainly Despite how simple and novel that further integration of day still in the works, but this bold this idea sounds on paper, the students into the boarding com- outlook seems to be a promising idea has provoked much discus- munity and establishment of start to more offi cial and viable sion and debate by many on cam- a system to knit day students day student integration into the pus. Th e question of whether day together is in order. Day stu- Loomis life. student prefects could forge the dent Anna Costello ’15 says, “I

same bond with their younger would love to be able to help out PHOTO COURTESY OF LALIGADELALECHEPR

CLAIRE KIM ‘14

Peer Support in the Arts: A Work in Progressfour years. No time to spare for this and that, because at LC, you are always busy, busy, busy. I think not. I regret making those excuses for all that I missed in the course of my four years at LC. I wish that I had gone to watch that winter mu- sical “Hairspray”, the senior music recitals, more hockey games, more of everything, that I had allowed myself more time to appreciate others’ cre- ativity and passion in the arts, music, athlet- ics, anything. Trust me. You don’t want to miss out too much. Don’t make ex- cuses because if you do, you know others will also make the same excuses to miss out on your own work, your own passion that you want to perform, act, and show others. Support your peers in

JULIA SONG ‘15 FOR THE LOOMIS CHAFFEE LOG their works, and they lections of art works done by our simply wait for you to come to I know, I know. Time at LC is to go to a concert on a Th ursday will reciprocate the support that CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 very own schoolmates and even the concerts, recitals, arts shows, more precious than anything and night, or to a sampler during the you give. LC has talents above faculty! dance showcases, musicals, and it escapes the tip of your fi nger- all-school free when you have to and beyond in everything because crowded arts show with the smell Being an artist or a musician appreciate the creativity and the tips every night when you need study for that Bio quiz? you are a part of it. Share yourself, of the brownies and coff ee served is oft en silent work. An artist, a time that they have put into these more time to study for that math Isn’t that you all would tell me? but more importantly, grow more waft ing through the air and unex- musician, they don’t oft en ask unique manifestations of their test and to get at least some sleep. Or at least, that was my excuse through others. pectedly saw extraordinary col- for loud and unifi ed cheers. Th ey own talents. How can one possibly fi nd time for a heck lot of things in the past Varsity Athletics Records (Winter Term as of 2/15): Boys Ice Hockey: 10-10-2 Girls Basketball: 17-3 Boys Squash: 8-7 Girls Ice Hockey: 12-8 Boys Swimming: 10-2 Girls Squash: 6-12 Boys Basketball: 6-12 Girls Swimming: 5-7 Wrestling: 16-3 LOG SPORTS PAGE 8 FEBRUARY 20, 2014

Featured Athlete: Steph Jones ‘15, Girls Wins Gold Varsity Basketball Captain By Just “Winging It”

by Maisie Campbell ‘15 keep everyone on track and focused play ball. Almost two years later, by Sam Cox‘15 riders on their runs, is still be- from Japan, aged 15 and 18, Web Editor and make sure everything is getting Jones is extremely with her decision Staff Writer ing discussed. It’s pretty clear claimed the silver and bronze done.” According to Jones, you don’t to come to Loomis and is very com- that Sage’s style, throwing clean respectively. Shaun’s run, con- ocused and determined, need to be the captain to be a leader, mitted to her team and her game. fter winning the first tricks, stomping the landings, sisting of shaky landings and Steph Jones ’15 continues but being team captain means every- After coming to Loomis and de- gold medal for the and adding his own unique unimpressive tricks, put the her unwavering love of bas- one is looking to you for guidance. voting herself to her team, Jones feels United States in this approach to the course, was favorite in fourth, ending the Fketball by competing for Loomis As a team captain, it is important to that she has grown and matured sig- year’sA olympics, Sage Kotsen- seen as more deserving than 27 year old’s attempt at a three Chaffee, but this year, she leads always be on the top of one’s game so nificantly. She came to Loomis and burg told reporters he “just other peoples technical triples, peat, most likely his last chance Girls Varsity Basketball as team that everyone else can be on the top was nicknamed the “angry elf” but winged it,” when asked about something that at gold. captain. Jones starting playing of theirs. Jones notes a strong team has since become more calm and his gold medal he won at the purists see as more gymnastic This disappointing finish playing basketball with her broth- chemistry this year, certainly a con- composed. Replacing frustration first ever snowboard- than tricks like Sage’s. Some are came after a week of decisions er when she was six years old, tributor to their 17 wins out of 20 caused by others’ mistakes with a ing event. praising the judge’s decision to that has prompted criticism beginning her competitive career games played. According to Jones, more encouraging and helpful at- In slope style, a competition credit style over number of in- from White’s opponents. After in the third grade. For Jones, bas- “Your team is your family, your fam- titude, Jones is very proud of how judged on a competitors abil- verts, giving them kudos for many athletes, including White, ketball is an outlet for her com- ily away from home.” Clearly there much she has developed as a player ity to ride rails and jumps, Utah trying to bring uniqueness back complained that the slope style petitive nature and a and as a person. This native Sage Kotsenburg threw to snowboarding. Others think course was only sub-par and un- way to have fun and year, as a team captain, down an impressive run, includ- that the judges made a wrong- safe (Norwegian Torstein Horg- to express herself; Jones takes on more ing an unprecedented “1620,” doing for giving less credit to mo fell in practice and broke his the court is the one responsibility that ac- 4.5 full spins, and a “steezy 1260 more technical runs, that are collarbone on the rail section), place where she can centuates her growing double cork,” on top of a super arguably due to harder a higher he decided to pull out of slope truly express herself. maturity. Jones has also clean rail section. Despite this level of training and skill. Nev- style all together, putting all his But basketball is made other progressive astounding performance, com- ertheless, a good show was put money on winning the half pipe not all fun and games; leaps and bounds in the ing into the Olympics the snow- on for snowboarding fans, and gold. His competitors called him Jones also has a strong course of her basketball boarding community seemed the Olympic debut of slope style out on being selfish, and taking work ethic, both on career while here at Loo- convinced that a “triple cork,”a was a complete success. away that spot from a younger, the court and off. Ac- mis. Last Wednesday, in trick that consists of being in- In the 22 foot Superpipe, an lesser known rider. Others said cording to her, “Bas- a game against Suffield, verted three times while spin- event that American Shaun he dropped out because he knew ketball here at Loomis Steph scored her 2000th ning, would be needed to get White has dominated the last he had no chance of winning. is life. Basically, you career point. Coach Stew, the gold. But Canada’s Mark eight years, his control of the Canada’s and go to school, you play halting the game in the McMorris and Max Parrot were competition was finally put to Max Parrot both took to twitter, basketball and you go middle of a play, came shocked that, after they each rest after a disappointing fourth saying he dropped out because to study hall.” Jones out on the court, with landed two triple corks in one place finish, ending his back he didn’t have a shot. Although also stays in shape Steph’s team and mom to run, they both finished behind to back streak of olympic gold. this may be true, we’ll never during the fall and congratulate her on the- Sage and Ståle Sandbech of of Swit- know what Shaun was think- spring, working out at accomplishment. Steph, . (Mark picked up the zerland took home the gold, ing when he dropped out of the least two hours a day. though small in stature, is bronze while Max came in fifth) landing his signature trick, the event, because it sure didn’t help In the summer, Jones definitely ‘smoove’ on the The controversy surroud- “YOLO Flip,” consisting of two him win gold in the pipe. plays for the AA bas- court. ning the judges, who score the flips and four spins. Two kids ketball team, ‘the Gal- Coming at the end of laghers’ in New York the basketball season are and works out from the New England Cham- 7 in the morning to 5 pionships. Jones has a in the evening. Jones’ PHOTO COURTESY OF LEILAH DIONG ‘15 positive attitude as she hard work has certain- Jones has led the Girls Basketball team to a 17-3 record asserts that their team’s ly paid off; she has already commit- is a strong bond between these girls victory is not an “if” but a “when”. ted to playing basketball at Boston and a strong sense of commitment. And when they win, “Coach Stew College. A big influence in Jones’ decision will get a haircut that says ‘Champs’ When asked about her views on to attend Loomis was the basket- and might even bring his flat top the role of team captain, Jones ex- ball program, and specifically the back.”. On February 26th, Jones plains, “When you’re a captain, you coach, Coach Stew. Coach Stew sold hopes to see Loomis fans out in have to be a leader and lead by exam- both the basketball program and the force, cheering the team on to a New ple. You basically have to set the tone school itself when Jones began look- England Championship. in practice and games. You have to ing for a prep school where she could

Wait What, We Have A Ski Team?

by Isabelle Raposo ‘15 on-campus facilities, LC Skiiers Abby Biddle, Tucker Santoro, PHOTO COURTESY OF AP IMAGES Contributor can only use their practice space John Fundock, Katya Yepifanova, Kostenburg was the first American to win a medal at the 2014 Games for forty-five minutes to an hour Katie Warner, Sara Corsetti, Ali oomis Chaffee’s alpine before it’s time to get back on the Corsetti, and Sam Rice all possess ski team doesn’t let the bus. These time constraints de- these qualities in ample amounts, school’s lack of an on- mand complete focus and flawless and their dedication to the sport LC Swimming Takes Down Exeter For Lcampus ski mountain deter them cooperation by all team members certainly pays off. from following their athletic pas- in order to make the most of their The ski team hones their skills First Time in School History sion—four days a week, they take available practice time. What the under the direction of James and top swimmer, Joe Shepley. Coninck broke the 200 Freestyle a forty-five minute bus ride to participants in other sports are Montana and Frank Roberts, who Not only did Tripp defeat Shep- record in 2007. With Loomis practice at Ski Sundown in New able to accomplish in two or even are affiliated with Ski Sundown. Log Staff Report ley, (coming within two seconds now leading 79-47, it would take Hartford, CT. three hours a day, the skiers must The benevolent Marco Rodarte of the school record in the pro- nothing short of a miracle for the This year, the ski team had accomplish in under an hour. drives the team to the mountain n his thirty-one years as the cess) but Tripp’s brother, Jack Big Red to even have a chance of enough members to field both a The bus rides and chairlift time each day they practice, making Loomis Chaffee Boys Swim- Miller ‘17, outtouched the Exeter making a comeback, and after varsity and JV squad. In the New provides ample opportunity for the entire endeavor possible. Ski ming & Diving coach, Fred Captain to give Loomis a critical winning the 200 Freestyle Relay England Prep Championships on team bonding, attests sophomore Sundown is home to ski teams ISeebeck has accomplished just 1-2 finish in an event they were and the 100 Backstroke, Loomis February 12th, the girls’ team (Is- Abby Biddle. Although the the ski from other schools which the about everything there is to ac- not expected to win. After Exeter officially clinched the victory. abel Guigui, Sara Corsetti, Abby team is a time-consuming com- Loomis team competes against, complish in New England prep reestablished themselves with But, just for good measure, David Biddle, Ali Corsetti, and Katie mitment, (they practice Monday an unusual occurence in the swimming. However, in Coach victories in the the 200 IM and 50 Chen ‘16, Furlong and Will Meng Warner) came in second overall, through Thursday each week and world of interscholastic sports. Seebeck’s three decades at the Free, LC’s lead had dwindled to ‘16 swept the field in the 100 a striking achievement consider- race on Wednesdays) Friendships Ski Sundown offers a magnificent helm of LC Swimming, he had eight points as the Diving portion Breaststroke, going 1-2-3 in the ing the quality of the competition blossom and team spirit always array of fifteen different trails, and never defeated the swimming of the meet began. final individual event of the day. they faced. runs high. even has night skiing capacities. powerhouse that is Phillips Ex- James Daring ‘14 and Pat Craig With the meet already won, one Unlike Loomis athletes with Alpine skiing demands un- Junior Isabel Guigui explains eter Academy. That all changed ‘17 placed first and second, re- would expect Loomis to take it paralleled the technicalities of downhill ski on February 8, as Loomis took spectively, in the diving portion easy in the final event of the day, stamina and racing, even graciously including down the Big Red from Exeter of the meet, giving a 45-33 edge the 400 Free Relay. That is defi- focus, not some diagrams: “There are two by a resounding score of 100-81. to Loomis at the “halftime” in- nitely not what happened. to mention types of racing; slalom and grand Not only did the team record termission. In the first event After first three legs of the re- the ability slalom. The first, requiring preci- the school’s first ever win over after the break, the 100 Butter- lay, Exeter and Loomis were neck to remain sion and art, consists of a series Exeter in Boys Swimming, two fly, Pelicans Finlay and Bobby and neck, the race coming down composed of gates (poles) closely spaced records--one individual and one Cecere ‘16 would face Shepley, to the anchor legs being swam by in the face together. The skier must navigate relay-- fell on what was truly one the three-time defending New Shepley and Bogle, respectively. of the signif- the course without missing a sin- of the greatest days in the pro- England Champion in the event. Fresh off his 100 Free victory icant danger gle gate, or they will find them- gram’s storied history. Not only did Finlay easily defeat from earlier in the meet, Bogle one puts selves disqualified. It’s customary In the meet’s first event, the Shepley, but Bobby Cecere over- easily defeated Shepley, making themself in for a racer to knock the gates over 200m Medley Relay, the Loomis came a body-length defecit at the the final tally 100-81 in favor of while speed- as they pass. Giant slalom, aptly relay team of Jeremy Bogle ‘14, final turn to defeat Shepley by a the Pelicans. Coach Fred See- ing down named for its wider course, re- John Furlong ‘14, RJ Finlay ‘15 hundredth of a second. After the beck noted after the meet that it a white quires a focus on power”, Isabel and Geneth Chin ‘14 swam a 1-2 finish in the 100 Butterfly, the was “A hungry, relentless perfor- monolith adds, illustrating her point across time of 1:51.09, defeating Exeter’s Pelicans led 57-37. With Captain mance from the Pelicans,” while in the com- the back of her French home- relay by eight seconds while also Jeremy Bogle winning the 100 also commenting that “this meet pany of oth- work. The skiers’ times are taken besting the School Record, set Freestyle, the stage was set for bodes auspiciously for a strong ers, flirting when they arrive at the end of last year by Bogle, Furlong, Fin- Senior Captain Tripp Miller to showing during the champi- with the the course, and the team with the lay and Tucker Cheyne ‘13. After make history in the 400 Freestyle. onship season.” LC Swimming upper lim- lowest composite time wins. the Loomis “B” relay placed third, Tripp paced his race perfectly, would like to thank Exeter for its of your Although the LC ski team is a the Pelicans took a command- dominating the competition and such a dignified yet intense dual p e r s o n a l sometimes overlooked, the ski- ing 10-4 lead through the first finishing in a time of 4:15.29, meet, while eagerly anticipating capacity. ers’ effort, dedication, and talent of twelve events. In the second besting the 14-year old school the Founders League Champi- Team mem- shines through in their races and event, the 200m Freestyle, Senior record by a whopping three sec- onships on February 22 and the bers Isabel victories, deserving just as much Captain Tripp Miller went head- onds. It was the first individual New England Championships on SHANNON DEVENEY ‘14 FOR THE LOOMIS CHAFFEE LOG Guigui, Ro- respect as any other varsity sports to-head with Exeter’s Captain school record set since Jake De- March 1-2. Tucker Santoro ‘15 and Ali Corsetti ‘14 hin Bhargava, team on campus.