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Vo l u m e CXXX, Sp e c i a l Vo l u m e CXXXV, Nu m b e r 6 The Pingry School, Martinsville, New Jersey Ma y 11, 2009 Authors Lead Workshops at Writing Festival

By KATE DREYFUSS (V) & tion writer and poet Tao Lin. TANVI GUPTA (V) An adjunct professor at Boston College, Powell is the author of The twelfth Annual Creative “The Mushroom Man,” in which Writing Festival, sponsored by she explores childhood and the the Justin Society, brought six complications of family relation- well-known authors to the Pingry ships. While at Pingry, Powell community, once again exposing shared her short story “Banana students and faculty members to Root.” Her forthcoming second current voices in contemporary novel, “The Poppy Queen,” is set poetry and fiction. Once again, in Brecon Beacons, South Wales, the Festival was organized by where she grew up. Festival Coordinator, Dr. Susan Lin, a New York University Dineen, with the help of Creative alumnus, recently published his Writing Club Advisor, Ms. Alisha first novel “Eeeee Eee Eeee.” Davlin. He is also the founding editor of This year’s participants in- “Muumuu House,” which is pub- cluded National Book Award lished both online and in print. He Winner, Julia Glass, who received shared various poems from his the award in 2002 for her first anthology, including “you are a novel “Three Junes,” and poet little bit happier than i am.” Marie Howe, who teaches at Following the style of the Sarah Lawrence and has been Dodge Poetry Festival at Wa- the past recipient of a Lavan terloo Village, the festival was Younger Poets Prize from the launched with a morning meet- American Academy of Poets, as ing in which all the authors read well as NEA and Guggenheim small excerpts of their works. Courtesy: Pingry Communications fellowships. Her most recent Afterwards, readings continued Mrs. Bridges greets students at the Lower School. book is “The Kingdom of Ordi- in the auditorium and faculty nary Time.” lounge. Two other Sarah Lawrence After a lunch in the lounge, the faculty members joined Howe: group of 75 students participating Bridges Describes Struggle for Integration poet Thomas Sayers Ellis, the in the festival split into various accustomed to the lack of cropped” (Rubybridges.com). for all. winner of the 2005 Whiting Writ- By JULIA NOSOFSKY (V) poetry and fiction workshops to equality between blacks and Although the United States Mrs. Bridges began her ers’ Award and author of “The end the day. On Wednesday and Thurs- whites. Because of her young law of 1954 required all public speech by giving a firsthand Maverick Room; ” and multi- day, April 15th and 16th, Ruby age, she did not understand the schools to be integrated, the account of the “stories no one genre writer, Therese Svoboda. Julia Glass’s workshop Bridges, a famous civil rights mob that met her on the first New Orleans public school she knows about,” concerning The winner of the Graywolf Non- figure, came to Pingry as a day of school. attended did not desegregate racial hatred. One such story fiction Prize for “Black Glasses Julia Glass began by address- guest speaker to talk about her As her first year continued, until November 14, 1960. De- was about a white woman from Like Clark Kent,” a memoir about ing a common question she experiences as one of the first she was in a class by herself spite the dissent from whites Detroit who made a large family in the postwar era, Svobo- receives: how she approaches African-American children to as white parents had pulled in New Orleans at the time, contribution to civil rights in da has also published numerous writing. “Everything I write attend an all-white, “integrat- their children out of school Bridges today is known for her the South during the 1960s short stories and poems. begins with a character,” she ed” school in the South. in protest. Bridges missed her courage and faith in equality The final two writers were Living in New Orleans, innocent childhood, when all Continued on Page 6 novelist Sophie Powell, and fic- Continued on Page 6 Louisiana, Bridges attended a that she “knew and loved was segregated black school until growing up on the farm [her] she was six years old and was paternal grandparents share- Judy Shepard Addresses Discrimination Inside The Record and Speaks Out Against Homophobia By SHAAN GURNANI (IV) & Mrs. Shepard arrived to with the reactions of close about her opposition to ANISHA MOHIN (IV) share her message and ex- family members and friends homophobia. As she put it, periences with the student of the victims. “Why should anyone care In October 1998, Mat- body and faculty. After the film, Mrs. about who you come home thew Wayne Shepard, a The assembly opened Shepard introduced her- to at night?” Mrs. Shepard resident of Laramie, Wyo- with a short speech from self and began her speech also pointed out that while ming and a student at the Chloe Carver (IV) and by presenting the Victim our founding fathers de- University of Wyoming, Emma Carver (VI) about Impact Statement that she clared that “All men are was murdered in an anti- the Carver foundation and gave at her son’s trial. She created equal,” this equal- homosexual hate crime. its goals. Then, a video described Matthew’s per- ity does not always include Because of its brutal nature, was shown about Matthew sonality, the call from the homosexuals or people of this crime received much Shepard and James Byrd, hospital, her visit to the different races. Her man- attention from the media Jr., an African-American hospital, and the tremen- tra during the speech was, and brought the issue of victim of a racial hate crime. dous loss she and her family “You are who you are.” homophobia into the public The video had information experienced. eye. on the two incidents, along Mrs. Shepard also talked Continued on Page 4 In December 1998, Mat- thew Shepard’s mother, Courtesy: Pingry Communications Judy Shepard, started the Poet Thomas Sayers Ellis works with students at a Writing Matthew Shepard Foun- Festival workshop. dation to honor Matthew Shepard’s “memory and A New Electorate? Life After Pingry prevent others from suffer- Brian Green (V) explores an alter- Frederique Schachter ‘96 describes ing his fate.” The Founda- nate method for determining Student her career working behind the scenes in tion works for “gay and Body President. P. 2. marketing for the NBA. P. 7. lesbian equality and hate crime legislation, raising Pingry’s Own HAL Different Year, Different Fortunes awareness” through various The Robotics team competed in Boys’ lacrosse has already sur- programs. passed its win total from last year and is the FIRST competition in New York Mrs. Shepard speaks to City in March. P. 4. lookng for more success. P. 8. audiences nationwide about A Half-Century Celebration Sections her traumatic experience, and more importantly, helps Coach Bugliari was honored in School News...... 1, 4,5, 6 Commentary...... 2-3 spread the foundation’s April for fifty years worth of coaching anti-hate message. On Tues- and teaching at Pingry and his dedica- Arts...... 6 tion to the school. P. 5. Special Report...... 7 day, March 31, with the Sports...... 8 help of The Gilbert Harry Courtesy: Pingry Communications Carver ’79 Foundation, Mrs. Shepard speaks in Hauser Auditorium. 2 THE PINGRY RECORD COMMENTARY MAY 11, 2009 THE PINGRY RECORD COMMENTARY MAY 11, 2009 EDITORIAL Green Group Initiatives, Earth Day Events power, which we purchase By MR. PETER DELMAN Green Group has two primary community. The Group will At our annual Holocaust assembly this year, we were re- from power companies, has goals. Pingry should institute sponsor participation in the minded yet again of the tremendous diversity that exists here Mr. Lawrence Eighmy, remained constant, and the an academic requirement for Annual Green Cup, a com- at Pingry. But what we saw and experienced was more than Pingry’s Sustainability Con- biggest energy consumer of environmental literacy for all petition between fifty high a presentation and remembrance of Jewish culture and his- sultant, advises many schools all – driving to school – has students. Also, Pingry should schools vying to accomplish tory. It was also a lesson in dealing with cultural differences. and colleges on their pro- yet to be addressed. make energy independence its the greatest reduction in elec- A few times during the presentation, some members of the grams to reduce greenhouse During the meeting Mr. goal. We recognize the need tricity use on each campus. audience clapped – first after a recitation of the Mourner’s gas use and has recently Eighmy advised the Green to reduce global warming The Green Group calls for Kaddish, a Hebrew prayer, and then after students who returned from China where Group to create a mission emissions by 80% by mid- new buildings at Pingry to were descendants of Holocaust survivors were called on he is working on a major statement. century at the latest. This is exceed Leadership in Energy stage to light candles. Yet this simple gesture had polarizing sustainability project. In an To that end, the following a big commitment, but the and Environmental Design effects on different people who interpreted it in their own evening meeting on April 11 statement has been approved benefits to our community silver standards, and be de- ways. While some believed the claps were harmless and with members of the Green by the Green Group Steer- and society far outweigh the signed to produce a surplus merely a show of support for the students on stage, others Group and other Pingry com- ing Committee and will be costs.” of energy. were greatly offended by what they saw as an ignorant and munity leaders, Mr. Eighmy considered by the full Green Teaching sustainability The Green Group planned disrespectful display by the Pingry community. offered an assessment of the Group this month: is a key goal, and the Green many events during the week Those who clapped did so for various reasons; some school’s progress in achieving “We recognize the respon- Group plans to participate of Earth Day, including a wanted to demonstrate support for their peers and thought its goal of becoming a carbon sibility Pingry has to provide in the new Curriculum Re- presentation by Mr. John clapping would show just that, while others simply went neutral school. a role model for the communi- view Process to implement Parke of the New Jersey along with the crowd without giving it much of a second Mr. Eighmy praised the ty and to educate our students curriculum change. Other Audubon Society and a visit thought. Applause has become a very casual reaction during school for the progress it to find solutions for solving initiatives include advocat- by environmental artist and assemblies especially at Pingry, where we use it to greet has made but underscored the environmental problems ing that Pingry become a teacher Ms. Rebecca Feranec. both moving presentations and housekeeping announce- the tough decisions that lie confronting us. Our institu- member of the Green School Ms. Feranec delivered a slide ments. Sometimes it has almost become an instinct, and ahead. In the last five years, tion’s greatest contribution Alliance, an organization of lecture on contemporary envi- we’ll find ourselves clapping for the most mundane and through a combination of to combating environmental schools committed to meet- ronmental art followed by art trivial messages that are delivered during our Upper School energy-smart planning and deterioration and climate dis- ing specific energy saving workshops. meetings. However, we need to realize that depending on technological innovations, ruption is to reorient its cur- goals, and creating an Idea The Green Group is a Pin- the circumstances, applause can easily be misconstrued if Pingry has reduced its use riculum to prepare students Exchange blog which will en- gry school club formed by stu- we give it out too freely and without much thought. of natural gas more than with the knowledge and skills courage community members dents and teachers to promote The difference in people’s reactions to the applause forty percent. However, he necessary to address the criti- to participate in planning a environmental awareness and during that assembly is also a prime example of the varied noted, our use of electrical cal challenges we face. The more environmentally aware action. customs cultures have and what happens when misunder- standings occur. For the Jewish students and faculty, the prayer recitation was familiar and personally meaningful, and they knew what the proper reaction was. However, those not as knowledgeable about that practice may become Should Accepted Students Be Able to Vote confused about how they should act. I admit I was one of the latter, and I felt a little lost when people began clapping during what I sensed should have been a solemn and quiet in the Student Body President Election? ritual. Was their applause more appropriate for the occa- By BRIAN GREEN (V) are hardly impacted by Stu- audience in their underwear tive of these tactics: tasty, sion, or was I wrong in assuming that the prayer called for dent Government decisions. might have gotten our next but empty and lacking in a respectful silence instead? Four years ago, I voted Now, when Grades 6 and President excited, but a silent personality. While there were people who firmly believed their ap- for Brian Combias ‘06 for Forms I and II don’t attend and packed auditorium might Next year, I hope that plause was fitting (which is played more off of American Student Body President. school meetings and rarely prove daunting for future some eighth grader will be culture) and people who fiercely thought otherwise (and Four years ago, I was a lowly attend speaking assemblies, candidates. Then distribute able to vote for the next Stu- who were more intimately familiar with Jewish culture), eighth grader, lower on the this argument is perhaps the ballots, giving one to ev- dent Body President. Next the vast majority, like me, were waffling somewhere in social ladder than a fresh- stronger than it was four ery student in the auditorium, year, I hope to look back between. As students in such a diverse community, we are man. Four years ago, the years ago. And yet, there is including the accepted stu- bound to participate in a positive bumping and mixing of from my place near the front Middle Schoolers at Pingry a group of Middle Schoolers different cultures. We should always recognize and respect dents. They have an interest of the auditorium and see him could still vote. Four years who is directly impacted by a in the results as well, and this in the far back, scrambling to each other’s heritage and beliefs, but at events at which only ago, I stopped by my mailbox certain cultures are highlighted and celebrated, we should new president, who will have inclusion might help make find a pencil, a pen, or any and took out the election spe- honor those by deferring to their customs. Presentations a say in next year’s student their eventual integration implement to mark the white, such as the Holocaust assembly are meant to spread aware- cial of the Record, where an government, whose only into Pingry life that much printed sheet of paper. Next ness and understanding of one or a few ethnic or religious article reviewing the Pingry knowledge of the candidates easier. It would also help us, year, I hope to see newly groups, and one of the ways the audience can contribute to Student Government Con- is the posters and flyers and the current students, by giv- accepted students with aston- them is by valuing and embracing the groups’ traditions. stitution found that Forms free food they bring. I am ing us a fuller picture of each ished looks on their faces as Though there should be much interplay among the various I and II were technically referring to the current Form of the candidates; besides they are handed the decision heritages represented in our community, there are occasions allowed to vote in elections. II students, who will (with the speeches and personal for electing the President of when we should pay more attention to particular cultures Three years ago, it no longer any luck) become next year’s encounters, the only other a school that they have not over others, especially during ceremonies that are highly mattered. freshmen. contact has been through the yet enrolled in. Next year, I significant for some. In this article, Adam Gold- Under current rules, eighth plethora of posters, stick- hope to listen and laugh with We often see cultural differences illustrated and discussed stein ‘06 noted that “consti- graders hold their Student ers, free candy, donuts, and the other students as we hear in the news, which has shown us that what appears odd tutionally only ‘students in Government Representa- other assorted items. The free the candidates speak for a to some people may be completely ordinary for others. Forms III-VI’” could vote tive Elections at the fall of candy is perhaps representa- second time. A picture taken in 2005 of former President George Bush for student body president. their freshmen year. This is holding hands with Saudi Arabia’s Prince Abdullah as they And while he is correct in to allow the newly arriving strolled through a garden may strike most of us in America his claim and acknowledged freshmen to have the same as strange and unnatural, but to native Saudi Arabians, it is a that this clause was passed common expression of trust and friendship. In a world that chance at being elected as by previous Student Gov- is as interconnected as ours is today, learning about other do the “lifers” at Pingry. This cultures and their customs (as Bush did with Abdullah) ernment administrations, he system is fair, and Form III is is especially important. When we want to branch out and still argued for the disenfran- fully represented by the first immerse ourselves in such a varied society, we should pay chisement of what was then Student Government meet- more attention to how we differ and become more open to approximately a quarter of ing. To deny the new fresh- absorbing as much as we can from our peers. There is no the student body (now it is men the chance to emerge as greater sign of respect than a mutual willingness to adapt probably more, considering leaders early in their Pingry to different cultures and appreciate what all of them have our new 6th grade popula- lives would be terrible. But to offer. tion). His arguments were it would be far worse to deny persuasive, and they were —Diana Jiang a whole grade their share in true. Most Middle Schoolers a decision that would affect them for their entire first year of high school. Vo l u m e CXXXIV I therefore suggest an Nu m b e r 3 alternative to the current Stu- dent Body President election Editors in Chief system, one in which all who Andrew Sartorius are affected may participate. I admittedly came up with Diana Jiang this when I realized that Ac- cepted Students Day and the Photo Editor Managing Editors Technical Director elections were held on the Nick Rice Andrew Sartorius same day this year. This was Jenny Gorelick a coincidence, but the idea is Jenn Soong compelling. Shaan Gurnani Instead of normal an- Cartoonist Faculty Advisor nouncements, allow the candidates to make another Kate Conway Deputy Editor Dr. Susan Dineen round of speeches, giving Nick Rice them one last chance to share their ideas and positions, and a chance at redemption if they did poorly on the All rights reserved. All contents © 2007 The Pingry Record. Printed on recycled paper. Please recycle after use. first speech. Imagining the K. Conway (V) THE PINGRY RECORD COMMENTARY MAY 11, 2009 3 Pre-Prom Meetings: The Administration Missed the Point By CHARLIE LAUD (V) with that. However, I did have been lecturing us on both should be considered in are the laws, I know them, these meetings that I did have a problem with the the legal trouble associated place of the alcohol legality I’ll tell you them, and if you not already know. I may When I was a freshman, content of these pre-prom with drinking, because, as meetings. break them, I’ll arrest you.” not speak for everyone, but I remember a speaker who meetings. stated before, we already These meetings made me If the administration would to me, they were useless. came to talk to the whole Now, I know drinking know that. If its intentions feel like the administration like to create a safe and Reflecting on the impact of Upper School about drunk underage is illegal. My with these meetings were to wants to keep me out of healthy prom-going experi- the drunk driving assembly driving. We had a man in his friends know it. Everyone keep students safe, then they legal trouble, rather than out ence for the students, that is I went to as a freshman, I re- mid 30s talk to us about how knows it. That being said, should have hired somebody of harm’s way. Students are not the message it should be ally think the administration a fun night of drinking ended why did we all have to at- to talk to us about the health often warned by the admin- conveying. missed the point they were in complete tragedy and tend a meeting where the risks, not the legal risks. istration: “Those who don’t I took away nothing from trying to make. changed his life forever. As I laws about drinking were Absolute student absti- learn history are doomed to was 15 years old at the time, read to us by a policeman nence from alcohol is an repeat it, and they will be drunk driving was not neces- with a PowerPoint presen- unrealistic goal. Some stu- punished greatly for their EDITORIAL sarily a concern for me, but tation? Some of us didn’t dents will choose to heed misconduct.” However, what I still found the message of even get to see the actual the information of these the administration needs to This past month, Pingry was blessed by the presence of two in- the assembly to be effective. policeman, but instead, a pre-prom assemblies, and be saying is something along credible speakers: Mrs. Ruby Bridges and Mrs. Judy Shepard. Mrs. The reason for this is that the low, low quality video of some will not. What the the lines of “those who don’t Bridges, spoke about her experiences as one of the first blacks to attend speaker was sharing his story the original production. Se- administration needs to do learn history are doomed to a desegregated school, while Mrs. Shepard spoke about the loss of with us, telling us how drunk riously, you couldn’t even is to provide the necessary repeat it, and forced to en- her son, Matthew Shepard, the victim of a horrendous anti-gay crime. driving affected him and his see the whole PowerPoint, information to allow kids to dure the same atrocities as Both women have been traveling around the United States speaking life. He was trying to warn and the majority of the make prudent choices while those before them.” to countless high school and college students. We, as students, should us so that we would not make words said by the officer drinking so that they may The meeting I attended consider it an honor that they chose to speak at Pingry. the same mistakes he did. His were less than audible. avoid the negative conse- as a freshman took the latter Both speakers captivated their audiences, giving emotionally purpose was not to lecture us Here’s what I’m asking: quences commonly associ- approach. At that meeting, poignant accounts of overcoming personal adversity. Although Mrs. on the legal repercussions of why is the administration ated with drinking. I’m not we were reminded that as fun Bridges’s speech was on an uplifting subject (defying segregation and drinking alcohol, but rather, hiring a cop to come in saying that the administra- as drinking can be, there are beginning the struggle for civil rights) and Mrs. Shepard description of to share with us the moral and tell us that something tion should condone the use some serious risks involved. her son’s brutal death was tragic, both speakers conveyed the same mes- and emotional turmoil he is “bad?” As high-school of alcohol; rather, I’m saying The presenter at that meet- sage: the need for tolerance and respect for those who are different. went through as a product students, we are well aware that they should recognize ing was an individual who Theoretically speaking, preaching tolerance seems straightforward of being a drunk driver. He of the legal risks associ- its existence and provide the was trying to prevent inci- enough. It is, after all, something we have been learning since our first days of education. Preaching tolerance, as we would say in my Gov ated with drinking. This showed us a side of drunk proper education to reduce dents like his from occurring class, is an example of majoritarian politics: if everyone shows respect driving that most of us never meeting was nothing but a the damage it may cause. again. He wasn’t telling us towards everyone else, then everyone in the community benefits. What really thought to consider, a reiteration of information There are plenty of pro- not to drink, but showing us sort of benefits are we talking about? Essentially, the community be- side that went beyond simply we already knew. That be- grams designed to increase one of the extremes of what gins to respect minorities’ rights, which inevitably leads to increased “getting in trouble.” ing said, the legal risks are student awareness about can happen if we do, leaving diversity, something that everyone wants. In short, the world becomes In preparation for this not what the administration alcohol safety. Any program, the choice up to us. a dynamic place: we gain the unique capacity to empathize and see the year’s prom, the juniors and should be trying to warn whether it be one that edu- However, these new meet- world from others’ points of view. seniors were mandated to at- us against; they should be cates students on the early ings with the police officers If only it were as easy as that. In reality, the world is a giant example tend a meeting to discuss the trying to educate us about signs of alcohol poisoning, felt like forced lectures. of entrepreneurial politics: almost everyone in the community enjoys risks involved with drinking. the health risks. We know or one that promotes safe and Listening to the Somerset relative freedom and liberty, while a minority exists to bear the brunt of These mandatory meetings that in the eyes of the law, smart drinking would prove County Assistant Prosecu- the intolerance. It is a self-perpetuating system and becomes a “tyranny were inconvenient, but none- drinking is wrong. We know effective among students tor W. Brian Stack recit- of the majority,” to use the words of James Madison: if this minority is theless, I could understand that if we drink, we can get who still decide to drink. ing the laws of New Jersey constantly “paying” for the freedom of others, how can it possibly “pay” that the administration was in trouble. And this is where The issues here are health in a monotonous tone is for its own freedom? Essentially, it cannot. Thus, a long-lasting intoler- trying to keep its students the administration missed and safety, and anything that hardly thought-provoking, ance begins to develop over generations: the oppression of American safe. And I had no problem its mark, for they shouldn’t can be done to improve on but rather implying, “Here slaves in the centuries before the Civil War is a perfect example. Applying these theories to Pingry helps shows how complicated change can be. It is perhaps more difficult to practice tolerance at Pingry than at a public school, precisely because we are educated in Honor Board Case Study such a small community. We develop friendships in middle school that last until senior year and because the school is so small, we often do In the February issue of The Record, an actual Honor Board case from 1997 was published. To briefly not feel the need to step outside our friendships and meet other people. summarize for those who did not read the February issue, in the case, a student was sent to the Honor Board Pingry does an excellent job educating students about respect and toler- ance for those different from us, but implementing these teachings are after lying to her teacher and telling her she had handed in an essay when she had never actually completed it. inherently difficult at a small, private school where we are not all that The deliberations of the Honor Board and outcome of the case are printed below. different from one another. Yet, over the past four years, I realize I have been lucky enough to meet a wide variety of interesting people both at Pingry and outside THE DELIBERATION the school. The only way this was possible, I now know, was to step outside the comfort zone of my traditional friendships, break down the boundaries of friend groups, and speak with people I wouldn’t Has there been an Honor Code violation? normally speak with. Yes. R definitely lied to her teacher and admitted to doing so. This itself is already grounds for a suspension. One of my most enjoyable experiences during my high school years has been playing soccer outside of school. While I enjoy the matches, it is my interesting, diverse teammates that keep me coming back year Can the student be trusted? after year. One, for example, is an exchange student from Paraguay, Technically speaking, the Board is supposed to take the side of the student and trust that he or she is telling the truth. who, much to my astonishment, does not know a single word of Span- Beyond the first lie, there is no physical proof of wrongdoing. However, there is a reasonable amount of doubt in this ish: he comes from the interior of the country and speaks a local native situation, so the story must be treated with some suspicion. dialect. Yet he can communicate with almost every member on the team, except me, because all the Paraguayan immigrants in this area of New Jersey speak his dialect. I have gained an immense respect What is some cause for suspicion? for this teammate who has overcome considerable obstacles to attend The paper only turned up when the answers were reviewed with the entire class, so it’s unlikely that any part of the paper school in this country. was actually done by the due date. I think that every student could benefit from similar experiences. Most importantly, and this is where I think Pingry students are lack- In addition, a similar case occurred the year before with the same student. R is already on probation for yet another case ing, we need to take the initiative in learning tolerance. We shouldn’t of lying. There is a pattern of misleading people evident. need Mrs. Bridges and Mrs. Shepard to stand up on stage and speak about developing a respect for minorities and those different from us: the burden is on us, the students, to go out into the world, meet different What are some possible options for punishment? types of people, and develop a natural respect for them. The two main possibilities are two weeks suspension and expulsion. That isn’t to say the speeches were irrelevant: in fact, they served to highlight the successes we have had in our community in preaching What are the pros and cons of expulsion? tolerance. For example, the speeches made me realize how beneficial our community service is in encouraging students to interact with R seems to be lying compulsively and continuously violating the spirit of the Honor Code. She never admitted she was different types of people. More importantly, student-run clubs such wrong in any way, and members of the Board felt that she was trying to talk her way out of the situation. She doesn’t as AFS, Global Literacy, and the various culture clubs serve a similar seem to understand what the Honor Code, and thereby Pingry, is about; perhaps this isn’t the best place for her. However, purpose. it is not the place of the Board to “diagnose” R as a compulsive liar, to vilify her, or to judge her unnecessarily. It may In the future, I think that tolerance at Pingry will only increase and be too harsh to expel her. In addition, expelling her may not teach her anything. She might just walk away and not take move increasingly from the theoretical to the practical: we will begin to actively practice what we have learned for years in the classroom anything from it. as the ethnic, racial, and socio-economic composition of the student body changes and expands. What are the pros and cons of two weeks suspension? The creation of the position of “Director of Global Programs” this Two weeks of suspension with probation would still send a strong message to R, and it would be noticeable to the rest year shows that Pingry will play an active role in the rapidly globalizing and diversifying world of the 21st century. Who knows: perhaps in the of the community. It’s neither a simple slap on the wrist nor an overtly cold-hearted punishment. However, if past events future (if the economy ever straightens out, that is) Pingry will come to have mirrored this situation, and still R hasn’t learned anything, a suspension may be useless. require students to study abroad in the summer for a few weeks or for a semester. Although this may not occur for many decades, I think it would be a fitting program for a school that works so hard to educate RECOMMENDATION TO THE HEADMASTER: its students about tolerance and diversity. Had R not been on probation already, she would have received two weeks of suspension. However, because she is already Funny how two good speeches can make you sit up and imagine the wealth of possibilities that lie ahead. on probation she should be expelled. —Andrew Sartorius 4 THE PINGRY RECORD SCHOOL NEWS MAY 11, 2009 Robotics Competes in FIRST Competition Shepard Educates By SHAAN GURNANI (IV) On the first weekend in March, Against Prejudice the Pingry Robotics Team com- son, and her views on gay peted against over 65 other teams Continued From Page 1 and human rights. from nearby schools at the FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition Mrs. Shepard then made it “A lot of kids left feeling of Science and Technology) New clear that her views extend empowered because of her York City Regional held at the beyond homophobia to all message and privileged that Javits Center in New York City. types of hatred. they got the chance to talk The second-year team now has Mrs. Shepard pointed one on one with her,” Chloe about twenty participants, com- out that sometimes our Carver said. pared to as many as fifty or more generation discriminates The day after the as- participants on other schools’ without even realizing it. sembly, advisory groups older teams. This year’s team For example, the use of the met to discuss the impact is comprised of Upper School phrases “That’s so gay,” and ramifications of Mrs. students and headed by captains “You’re a fag,” and “That’s Shepard’s talk. Overall, the Matt Rybak (VI) and Diana retarded” have become part students had a very positive Jiang (VI). of teenagers’ vernacular. response to Mrs. Shepard. The team’s faculty advisor, sci- Mrs. Shepard also proposed They believe that Pingry ence teacher Mr. Jeffrey Jenkins, started the program last year; a simple solution to hatred: should actively respond to Mrs. Ronalee Newman serves educating those who prac- Mrs. Shepard’s message. as the team’s secondary adviser. tice prejudice blindly by John Varvaro (IV) said, “I Students from around the world The team poses with its robot at the NYC Regional. V. Morgan (V) “bringing light where there think it was a good idea that compete in the annual FIRST Each robot had a trailer attached to were called to compete in the next cause “you meet new and inter- is darkness.” Mrs. Shepard Mrs. Shepard came to speak Competition, which designs a it during the competition that the match. Stressful moments aside, esting people, you learn, and go believes that those who to us about these issues. different challenge for the stu- opposing robots attempted to fill the team was, as John Varvaro crazy with team bonding and stand by and let discrimina- She gave us some insight dents to tackle each year. After with orbit balls and score points. (IV) put it, “able to finally enjoy team spirit.” tion happen are as guilty as into how real these issues the challenge is announced in “The trick,” according to Mor- the competition!” Varvaro, who first joined ro- bigots themselves. It is up are and convinced us that January, students have a “build gan, “is that the playing field has The team finished in the mid- botics this year, said, “I have to our generation to work on we could and should take season” of six weeks to design and a very low coefficient of friction dle of the pack, placing 33rd out always wanted to know more fixing the issues of preju- part in making some huge assemble a robot for that year’s and the robot has to use a certain of 66. about mechanics and how to build dice and discrimination that changes.” particular game. set of low friction wheels. In other “For a team which has only a robot. The competition was a plague our society today. Keri Forness (IV) agreed, As Vicky Morgan (V) ex- words, it is slippery.” A human competed for its second year in ro- lot of fun and totally worth all the Later in the day, many saying “The only way to plained, “We get the kit of parts player also attempted to shoot botics competitions, we did rather hours we put into the robot.” build on what we’ve learned in January and build like madmen balls into the trailers of passing well,” Rybak said. And although Rybak agreed. “The team students, including mem- up until the ship date,” when the robots. The alliance with the parents, students, and Mr. Jenkins was useful because it enabled bers of the Gay-Straight on today is to take what Ms. robot is packed in a crate and most number of balls scored in currently provide the majority of my teammates and me to learn Alliance, an AP Psychology Shepard has given us and shipped to the competition loca- the opposing team’s trailers won the team’s funding, Morgan noted the basics of engineering and class, and Shades of Color, run with it. We need some- tion. According to Morgan, robot- each match. optimistically, “We are working electronics,” he said, “and it will attended an informal lunch thing concrete to work on as ics “takes up as much time as any The competition was held over on getting a tad more funding undoubtedly leave us with fond with Mrs. Shepard. During a community and we need it varsity sport would.” three days. On Friday, the team from the school next year.” memories of the time we spent the lunch, she answered now, or else Ms. Shepard’s Rybak stressed the importance arrived early at the Javits Center Morgan had a great time be- making the robot.” questions about her life, her message will be wasted.” of teamwork, citing a huge com- and spent the day scouting other mitment when it came close to robots and working on its own. competition time. “The core Practice matches were also held members of the team would to give teams a chance to test Pingry Entertains Foreign Exchange literally spend every single day out their robots and repair any at school until we all passed out malfunctions. Pingry finished from exhaustion around 11 P.M.,” assembling its robot right before Students at Annual AFS Weekend he said. their first of seven qualifying This year’s challenge, called matches on Saturday and Sun- By JENN SOONG (V) host, Liz Roberts (VI), that the AFS welcoming party, that “it is often hard to “Lunacy,” was lunar-themed. day. After each match, the team “if she had spent her year which took place during find Pingry students who The competition consisted of six scrambled to make minor adjust- On Thursday, March 5, at Pingry instead of at her Friday CP in Madame Jor- are willing to give up time robots in each round divided into ments to parts of the robot that the American Field Service other school, she would not dan’s room. Pini said she to host because they are two randomly chosen alliances. didn’t work properly before they invited 14 foreign exchange have wanted to go home to loved “watching Wall-E,” always so busy.” However, students to spend the week- Germany at the end of the eating snacks, and meeting she also acknowledges that end with 11 Pingry host year.” new people. most hosts “realize how families for AFS Weekend. As students attended Throughout the weekend, much they enjoy the event PSPA “Gets Smart” Hoping to give students their hosts’ various classes, the AFS guests and their after having a guest.” In “a chance to interact with they were able to interact hosts continued to par- fact, Hemani says she was teens from other cultures,” with different teenagers ticipate in various events. able to become “intimate With Spring Benefit French teacher Madame and teachers. One of Ying’s Malvi Hemani (IV), who friends with my guests” and complete with a cone of si- Kelly Jordan organizes the favorite in-school moments hosted two girls, one from that “being around other By JENNY GORELICK (V) lence from Headmaster Mr. event annually. This year, was in Senor Victor Naza- Germany and one from Ar- teenagers from around the On Saturday, March 7, Nathaniel Conard and Head the AFS guests came from rio’s Spanish class, where gentina, said that on Friday world was a great experi- the PSPA held their annual of the PSPA Mrs. Donna a total of nine countries, he had to “introduce my- night “the group went first ence that helped me appre- Spring Benefit at the Bridge- Kriesbuch. Next, math teach- including China, Germany, self and say, ‘Hola! Como to Chimney Rock for dinner ciate other cultures.” water Marriot Hotel. This er and singer Ms. Allison Italy, and Switzerland. esta?’” Pierfrancesco Mon- and then to the Bridgewa- As the host of two girls year’s theme, “Because of Shwaab performed. After settling down tanaro from Italy said his fa- ter Arena for ice-skating, from Ecuador and Thai- you, we…Get Smart,” played She was followed by the with their host families on vorite part of the school day bowling, and a game of land, Averill Morash (VI) homage to the 1960’s televi- opening of the buffet style Thursday night, the visiting was “having a nice and long laser tag.” The Chan family said, “AFS Weekend was sion program “Get Smart” dinner and then the main students attended Pingry triple lunch” and “chilling invited Ying to “a restaurant one of the best weekends and was a tribute to the teach- event, a fashion show that classes on Friday. Upon with my host, Marco Mi- in New York City,” where he of my year and I hope that ers, administrators, and staff featured members of the se- arriving at the school, the chelangeli (V).” also visited Time Square. more Pingry people get members who have facilitated nior class and faculty model- guests were immediately The guests also enjoyed Madame Jordan admits involved.” education at Pingry. Orga- ing clothing from local stores struck by Pingry’s nized by Mrs. Julie Pinke including Seraphina and Par- atmosphere. Ital- and Mrs. Ginny Topf, the adise, the Lily Pulitzer store. ian guest Alessan- evening included musical There were four categories dra Pini, hosted by performances by members of of clothing modeled: casual Arielle Kogut (VI), the faculty, a silent auction, wear, resort wear, semi for- said, “Wow! This a live auction, and a fashion mal, and eveningwear. can’t be a school! show. Chloe Carver (IV), a vol- It’s too big and During the first portion of unteer at the benefit, said, awesome.” Lu Ying the night, guests arrived at “The seniors all did a great from China, who an outer hall surrounding the job. Everyone looked great, stayed with Carina grand ballroom that was filled and Brooke Conti (VI) really Chan (V), was sur- with the sounds of the Ballad- rocked her Mohawk.” prised at how dif- eers musical trio directed by The final event was the live ferent Pingry was Mr. Jay Winston. While en- auction. Student volunteers from his local pub- joying the h’ors doeuvres, the presented the wide range of lic high school. He attendees browsed the items items for auction while the loved how students for auction, which included guests bid. Beth Garcia (V), could sit on various mink jackets, vacations, a one of the volunteers, said, couches and joked prime space in one of the “The PSPA benefit was really that “it was easy Upper Campus parking lots, fun to be a part of. The par- for me to get lost and a baseball bat signed by ents, teachers, and seniors all because everything Derek Jeter. looked like they were having looks the same ev- In the grand ballroom, a great time.” erywhere.” the event began with a short Overall, the Spring Benefit Ina Voshage from speech, in the style of the was a successful night of en- Germany told her Foreign exchange students gather on AFS weekend. Courtesy of Mrs. Combias “Get Smart” television show, tertainment, food, and fun. THE PINGRY RECORD SCHOOL NEWS MAY 11, 2009 5 Matthew Marvin (6) Appears in “Doubt” By NICK RICE (V) called to the set at about 6:15 AM,” said Marvin, adding, “and, One of the films that came since movie makers are such out in 2008, earning five Os- interesting people, we ended up car nominations, was “Doubt,” eating lunch at about 6:00 PM.” written and directed by John With such a demanding schedule, Patrick Shanley and based on instead of school, “we had to be his Broadway play. What you tutored for three hours, at least, may not realize is that a member each day,” said Marvin. of the Pingry community had a Making the jump from live small role in that film. Matthew acting to film acting was a big Marvin (6) acted alongside stars change for Marvin as well. such as Philip Seymour Hoff- “Film acting is so different man, Meryl Streep, and Amy from acting on the stage!” he Adams. “Doubt” follows the explained. “When on a stage for story of a Catholic Church in the extended periods of time, what Bronx that’s plagued by rumors happens, happens. The show of its priest, played by Hoffman, must go on. With a movie, the having inappropriate relation- editors can cut anything.” ships with altar boys. Marvin Marvin loved working with appears in many scenes as a such notable actors. “The cast member of the church’s Catholic and crew were phenomenal while school class. on the set,” he said, “especially Marvin’s professional act- Meryl Streep, Philip Seymour ing career began at PeachCraft Hoffmann, and Amy Adams. Courtesy: Pingry Communications Studios in Summit, where he They were all extremely profes- enrolled about three years ago. sional and so much fun to work He has appeared in many produc- with, too.” tions at PeachCraft, including Marvin is unsure of his future Varsity Soccer Coach Bugliari ’52 Honored “Into the Woods” and “Maybel- roles in film, but he continues act- line.” ing and auditioning year-round. Marvin attended an audition “I don’t know of anything yet, at Half-Century Banquet Celebration for “Doubt” in New York City but I am in the Middle School’s where he read through various “Our Thanks to Miller A. and is “certainly honored “Godspell” as Judas, and I will be By SHAAN GURNANI (IV) team.” scenes, and was asked to partici- in “Children of Eden” this sum- Bugliari ’52,” was pro- “There were people here that Pingry celebrated pate a few months later. mer with PeachCraft Studios,” he On Saturday, April 4 that graduated anywhere duced by Peter Hiscano ’75. someone who has been When filming began, Mar- said. “I am always training and Miller A. Bugliari ’52 was from the 40s up to the “It summed up my Pingry here as long as I have.” He vin’s lifestyle began to change. auditioning in New Jersey and honored for his illustrious 2000s, and I think that we career and showed what a described his experiences “My mom and I woke up before New York, which will hopefully half-century of teaching all had a great time,” Bug- great school Pingry is,” said by saying, “It has definitely the sun rose every day and were lead to a bright future!” and coaching at Pingry. Bu- liari said. He felt that “The Bugliari. been great for me, and I gliari has been the Varsity enthusiasm and spirit of the After the movie, past hope that the same goes for Soccer Coach for 50 years people who came, toward players, friends, and fam- the school.” and earned his 700th win Pingry and toward me, was ily gave speeches. Jack Schoenbach felt that “it this fall. In the past, Bug- wonderful.” Brescher ’65, Warren Kim- was really cool to see all liari was a biology teacher “What is so unusual is ber, Jr. ’52, Adam Rohdie, of the people who Coach and head of the science to have someone that has Charlie Stillitano, Jr. ’77, has helped over the years department; currently he is been here for 50 years as Boyce Bugliari ’86, the together to honor him for the Special Assistant to the an employee of the school, 2008 Varsity Soccer Team, all he’s done, because it’s Headmaster. and who was here before and Bugliari ’52 himself really incredible what he Approximately 500 peo- that as a student,” Hoffman all spoke. Eric Schoenbach has done for so many peo- ple attended this celebra- said. “We are so fortunate (IV) said, “All of speeches ple and the school as a tion. “Probably five times to have someone like Coach were great, and some were whole.” that number expressed Bugliari at Pingry; other also very funny.” Conard agreed, saying dismay that they couldn’t schools are not able to have Following the speeches, “It was a fantastic event. I come,” said Director of that.” a dessert reception was held don’t think I have ever been Development Melanie P. At the event, cocktails in the Upper School Com- at an event where so many Hoffmann. She described and h’ors doeuvres were mons. Additionally, guests people are so happy to be the crowd as “a great mix of first served in the Upper were free to peruse the there and are so connected alumni, current parents and School Commons before soccer memorabilia on dis- with the school and with grandparents, past parents attendees filed into Haus- play in the Multi-Purpose Miller.” and grandparents, faculty er Auditorium to watch a Room. Overall, as Hoffmann and staff, former faculty video commemorating Bu- Bugliari thought that it said, “He is and has been and staff, and the current gliari. The video, entitled was a wonderful evening, a great influence on count- less members of the alumni, parent, and student com- munity. He is very caring, Students Mingle with Senior and has really made a huge impact in over 50 years of Citizens at Intergenerational Prom N. Rice (V) other and interact. Prom is just one of the few By ALLI DADOURIS (IV) The Drama IV Class Performs “Intergenerational Prom community service oppor- Over the past few years, is a wonderful way to vol- tunities Pingry offers each the Intergenerational Prom unteer and spend time with year. The school coordi- has become a part of Pin- a group of people you are nated a sports equipment “Scenes from American Life” gry’s tradition. At the Prom, normally not exposed to,” drive for the Dreamers in By NICK RICE (V) the perspective of the American changed ages, sexes, and person- students volunteer to dance, said Laura White (V). She the “I Have A Dream” of upper class. alities in almost every scene, re- sing, and interact with se- added, “I had a good time Plainfield High School, and On Thursday, April 16, Mr. “It definitely pushed the limit,” quiring constant costume changes nior citizens from local getting to know the seniors. Pingry students participated Al Romano’s Drama IV class said Catherine Lipper (VI). Sarah and making for a hectic backstage. communities. I even learned how to jitter at a one-day educational premiered A. R. Gurney’s “Scenes Paton (VI) added, “We dealt with The many costumes posed a chal-

On February 12, students bug!” conference on homeless- from American Life” in the Attic racial prejudice, but the satire was lenge for both the actors and Mrs. Theater, marking the final project arrived early to decorate The Prom is always one ness for high school stu- on the person saying it.” Jane Asch as well, who made the of years of drama classes, as well The dynamic of the class pre- costumes and set a reality. Lip- the cafeteria with hearts of the students’ favorite dents. as the final Pingry production for sented another challenge for the per said simply, “Mrs. Asch is and ribbons for Valentine’s community service activi- According to Faculty senior actors. The performance ef- actors. A group of four males and amazing.” Day. The guests, decked out ties each year because the Coordinator Mrs. Shelley fectively showcased an incredible seven females limited the amount Through hard work on every- in semi-formal attire, were guests’ gratitude is so evi- Hartz, students can still maturity in both performance and of possible plays. “We spent so one’s part, Drama IV pulled off a served a chicken marsala dent. “It’s just fun to sing get involved working at subject matter. much time just reading through remarkable performance despite with pasta primavera for for them and talk with them ECLC on Monday nights. The play is comprised of loose- plays over and over,” said Hannah many challenges. “It was really dinner. During the meal, afterwards because they With the weather warming ly connected short scenes, jumping Goldstein (VI). physically and mentally exhaust- students talked with the are always so happy to up, they can also contrib- back and forth between decades Despite the challenge posed by ing, but I really enjoyed doing guests and learned more see us,” said Buttondown ute time and good will at and settings. The scenes highlight the male to female ratio, the class this,” said Paton. about the differences be- Brian Zhou (V). “They are several walkathons, such as various patterns and connections dynamic proved helpful to the pro- Mr. Romano said, “This play tween the generations. so thankful to be here. It the JTB walkathon to ben- between time periods in American duction. Brian Hart (VI) said, “We was incredibly difficult. It turned After dinner, the Jazz makes your heart fuzzy and efit the John Taylor Babbit history, while also commenting on had already been working together, out a lot harder than we thought. Band, Balladeers, and But- warm to know that you’ve Foundation and the Walk the future of American society. The so the chemistry was there.” It required everyone in the pro- tondowns performed, giv- made a difference to their with Ronald McDonald to subject matter covered topics of Challenged with such a small duction to be completely in the ing the guests and students lives.” raise money for the Ronald politics, race, revolution, and other class, each actor played a wide moment. I thought it was incred- a chance to dance with each The Intergenerational McDonald House. controversial issues, often from range of characters. The actors ible.” 6 THE PINGRY RECORD SCHOOL NEWS & ARTS MAY 11, 2009 Death Cab for Cutie Creative Writing Festival Brings Br i d g e s Sp e a k s Releases “EP” Album Writers and Poets to Pingry Ab o u t De s e g r a t i o n Students had very positive model his poems), I gained even Continued From Page 1 reactions to Glass’s workshop. greater respect for him when he In t h e 1960s Max DeChiara (V) called the spoke to us in the workshop,” said, defining a character as workshop “a great catalyst for Myles said. Continued From Page 1 any person who is in any sort of my future writing.” “Ellis’ very persona emanated situation, “and as I keep thinking “By making us interview that rhythmic, somewhat radical, by serving as a carpooler for about this one character, other a person we did not know,” he funk-soul vibe that keeps you blacks when buses were not characters start to grow like limbs said, “we were able to really cre- subconsciously swaying in your yet integrated. She was shot of a tree.” ate a new character based off the seat. As for what he taught us in dead by a fellow white. Glass then proceeded to reveal random details that we learned the Writing the Poem workshop, Then, Bridges attempted to a large chart that further explained during our short discussions. In he showed us more than the convey the sense of inferiority her process. In the center of the my case, the situation I had to mechanics of lyric vs. prose vs. and hostility that the whites chart was the name Greenie, the write about was perfect for the verse etc. He showed how the imposed on blacks at the time main character in Glass’s second character that I developed with art of poetry and creating poems by telling everyone that they novel, “The Whole World Over.” the information from my inter- was not only an artistic endeavor, were taking a test and ask- Dozens of other names branched view. Not only did this workshop but a science. There could be just ing the students to close their from Greenie’s name, connected help me with that specific story, it as methodical an approach to eyes. While the students’ eyes by lines of specific colors, which gave me ideas about how to better poetry as there could be to writ- were closed, she told them that denoted familial, romantic, work- shape my future works.” ing fiction.” they had failed a test, one that Courtesy of Google Images ing, or other relationships. The Alli Dadouris (V) agreed, say- Whereas many people com- they had no chance of passing result was a large character tree ing, “Not only did I get to meet mented that Tao Lin made them to begin with. Such was the The song is comprised of By ARVIN ALAIGH (IV) that mapped out each of the char- a new person, I also got to create laugh the most in the morning hostile atmosphere in which acoustic guitar, with some acter’s interactions in the novel. this whole little reality about him, readings, Giancarlo Riotto (VI) she grew up. “The Open Door EP” is simple drums and ambient Glass then outlined her strat- and oddly enough, the reality he confessed, “My favorite part of Bridges then continued to the latest release from Wash- electric guitar. In this song, egy for approaching the daunting created about me was very similar the day was the writing exercise describe the world as she knew ington state-based indie rock Gibbard talks about his issues task of writing a novel after her to my actual life. It’s interesting Sophie Powell gave us in her it at the age of six. Initially, band, Death Cab for Cutie. with commitment, probably in initial inspiration. “After decid- how getting to know someone workshop. It was open-ended and she had thought that the Civil The EP consists of several a relationship. ing whose story I am going to in a limited amount of time can creative: write about a “fantasy Rights Movement was race previously unreleased songs The next track, “My Mirror tell, I consider the obstacles and teach you so much about them.” place” that one could find an versus race, but over the years, that were recorded for the Speaks,” is a perfect example dilemmas they might be facing, entry for in an imaginary ency- she had learned that whites and band’s 2008 album, “Narrow of the amazing vocals, catchy the setting and time period, and Other workshops clopedia. Being that it was the blacks actually helped each Stairs.” Death Cab has three bass-lines, and mellow guitar why a reader would want to read last day before break, my creative other “behind the scenes” to certified gold albums and one riffs that brought Death Cab this story,” she said. Students found the other work- thoughts weren’t really flowing; end segregation. Glass suggested simultane- platinum album. They have to fame. shops equally inspiring. nonetheless, I ended up writing Bridges’ personal anec- ously giving and withholding sus- Brian Zhou (V) raved about about “Yankeeland,” a fictional become known for their mel- Following that, “I Was dotes and informative stories pense to keep the readers engaged Marie Howe’s “Tuning the place whose citizens displayed low guitar riffs and extensive about those who struggled for Once A Loyal Lover” is an- and hungry for more. Poem” workshop. “It wasn’t as fierce loyalty to the Yankees use of piano, accompanied by other fast-paced track. In this equality in the 1960s offered Next, Glass introduced the much about different ways of baseball club and intense disdain students insight into the Civil impressive vocals and lyrics song, Gibbard talks about the workshop’s exercise, the goal of writing poetry as finding a new for the Boston Red Sox. This was Rights Movement. from lead singer/guitarist Ben difficulties of being in love, which was to create a character outlet or a new point of view,” he certainly an enjoyable exercise “It really opened my mind Gibbard. All of this results in and does a skillful job of in- sketch that could eventually be said. “We did something where that I would enjoy attempting in to the problems that our society a truly distinct sound. corporating distorted electric used as the beginnings of a piece we wrote with our un-dominant class sometime.” faced fifty years ago,” As Re- The EP wastes no time, guitar, acoustic guitar, and of fiction. She asked the partici- hand and used certain words and “Even though it was challeng- becca Spicehandler (IV) said. kicking off with the upbeat pants to pair off with colleagues piano. It is, without a doubt, it proved to be very interesting ing to run a program of this scope “It made me grateful to know they did not know very well and “Little Bribes”. With acous- the most memorable song of because you never really write the on the day before Spring Break, that I go to a school with such then interview them for 15 min- tic guitar accompanied by the EP. same way with your un-dominant the student participants once a diversified community.” utes to get as many details as pos- hand as you do with your normal catchy distorted guitar riffs The last track is a demo again loved this day,” Dineen Erika Lampert (V) added, sible to create this portrait. As the hand. I thought she was excellent. and piano, this track is easily of a song found on “Narrow said. “The writers were impressed “It was an interesting experi- participants were conducting the You could tell she’d done many with Pingry students, as well. A one of the best on the album. Stairs,” entitled “Talking ence to hear a first-person ac- interviews, Glass circled around workshops like this, but she was great day for our students, and a To no one’s surprise, Gib- Bird.” In contrast to the rest of count of an event we have all bard’s lyrics are captivating. the album, Gibbard is accom- the room handing out little slips never lecturing or anything. I great day for our school.” of paper to each student. Each learned about in history.” Using a variety of metaphors, panied solely by a ukulele, enjoyed her workshop and her slip of paper had some sort of readings very much.” he describes a typical casino instead of the full band. This dilemma on it, such as a breakup, Myles Bristow (V) considered setting: “Pretend every slot song is a fan favorite, so it is a loss, or a great opportunity. The Thomas Sayers Ellis “entertain- Cum Laude Inductees machine is a robot/Amputee a pleasure to hear an alternate purpose of these slips was to give ing to watch, enjoyable to listen waving hello/The people stare version of it. the students inspiration for a situ- to, and insightful to talk to. into their eyes/And they feed “The Open Door EP” is ation, which they could then use “While I was already a fan of them little bribes/And then a great album, from start to to turn their character portrait his style of poetry (as evidenced Form VI they go.” finish, and a must-have for into the beginnings of a work of by my knowledge and apprecia- Ned Adriance The second track, “A Dia- anyone, whether it be a first fiction. Glass then instructed the tion for that slam-poetry, melodic, mond and a Tether”, is a time listener or a die-hard students to write for half an hour tempo keeping meter/rhythmic Brooke Conti softer, lighter-waving ballad. Death Cab fan. and share their work. fashion from which he seemed to Diane Giangreco Henrietta Hakes Danielle Lashley Waxberg ‘96 Writes for Pingry Publications Ian Martin-Katz cord.” He also remembers how By DAN ABEND (III) Mr. Keating, his English teacher Jack Muller Mr. Greg Waxberg ’96 cur- for a few classes, shared a love of Maddy Popkin rently works in the communica- opera with him, which created a Matt Rybak tions department at Pingry. He unique bond between them that attended Pingry for seven years was beneficial for him throughout Kathryn Salvaggio and went to Emerson College in his time at high school. Alex Salz Boston, Massachusetts, where The English teachers at Pingry Grant Thomas he began to turn his scholastic helped him learn the writing skills interests into realities. that really paid off for him as he Andrew Weinstock He was, and still is, very much began writing for a living. Also, Alyssa Zupon involved in writing. At Pingry, he Pingry gave him important skills worked with “The Record” for such as professionalism, respect three years, and when he went to for peers, and cooperation. He college, he continued his inter- said that “strong cooperation”, Form V est by writing for the Emerson and the ideas that it encompass, school paper. such as “being able to take con- Brandon Brier Along with writing, his inter- structive criticism, can make any Alex Daifotis D. Jiang (VI) ests extended to classical music, project a successful one.” Kate Dreyfuss a field that he loves so much that sical radio announcer in Jackson, where he writes the majority Mr. Waxberg’s advice for he decided to go into classical Mississippi, and on his first day, of the articles for the school’s today’s high school students Sam Fisher radio. Mr. Waxberg worked at he was on the air. alumni magazine, “The Pingry about the future that lies ahead Emily Gilbert Emerson’s radio station, writing After a while, however, he Review,” edits the magazine, and is to get involved in anything and announcing news to gain began to lose interest in his job takes pictures for it. you have an interest in because Nick Gilligan on-air experience. He then got as he came to realize that loving He also writes the citations it pays off, whether that is in ex- Jenny Gorelick an internship at a radio station classical music and announcing it for the Athletic Hall of Fame perience, learning new skills, or and decided to drop journalism on the radio were not the same. inductees and Letter-in-Life your résumé. Most importantly, Calvin Jones to balance his internship, school He started to tap into one of recipients here at Pingry, dis- he said never be afraid to ask Bozhena Lisko radio job, and classes. his original passions and began tributes Pingry’s press releases, to do something. Mr. Waxberg Yamini Nabar As a Pingry student, Mr. writing more, mostly freelance. and in his spare time, continues said that in his career, “most of Waxberg was very determined Eventually, he decided to make to do freelance work for maga- the assignments I received I got Bennett Rosenbach and goal-oriented. Even though it his full time profession, and zines, newspapers, and opera by asking.” Even for those who Jennifer Soong people in the radio business told so a year ago this past January, companies. do not want to write or work at him he would not be on the air Mr. Waxberg came back to work Mr. Waxberg’s specific mem- Pingry, he said, the lesson to be Neha Srivastava at his first job, he proved them at Pingry. He now works in the ories from his school days here learned is “follow your passions wrong. He got his start as a clas- Communications Department, include working for “The Re- and interests.” THE PINGRY RECORD SCHOOL NEWS & ARTS MAY 11, 2009 THE PINGRY RECORD SPECIAL REPORT MAY 11, 2009 7 Zoellner ‘83 Serves as Assistant General Schachter ‘96 Works In Legal Council for The New York Times Marketing for NBA good math student,” she recalls went on to study at the University Zoellner is now the mother of two By JENN SOONG (V) By SHAAN GURNANI (IV) focused on the second option gaining some extremely useful of Texas, where she received a children, ages eight and eleven, and “ended up happier.” Since her days at Pingry, Al- skills while at Pingry. At Duke law degree. both students at Pingry. Frederique Schachter ’96 Directly out of college, lison Zoellner ’83 has pursued a University, where she majored in After graduating from the Uni- As the assistant general coun- currently works in marketing Schachter did consulting; she consistent yet exciting career in history and political science, she versity of Texas, Zoellner worked sel for the Times, Zoellner said the for the National Basketball As- feels that this “prepared her for the legal field. Her interest in law, built on the “study, research, and at various law firms, including best part of her job is that it “per- sociation (NBA). After gradu- her subsequent jobs.” Through which stems back to the second writing skills” that Pingry gave Shearing and Sterling. She then mits me to buy and sell different ating from Pingry, Schacter consulting, Schachter learned attended Princeton University, grade, has taken her to some of her. By the time she had expe- “practiced at the Wall Street firm, media properties. Media is quite about “different industries” and where she received her AB, gained business knowledge and the most prominent corporations, rienced the rigor of high school, Sullivan & Cromwell” where she understandable,” she said. “we majoring in Politics. experience, which she said “is including Sullivan & Cromwell, she said, “college was not very was able to interact with “many all read magazines and watch TV While in high school, very important.” and now the New York Times, difficult at all.” clients in Europe (primarily Great […] the business is sometimes Schachter “expected to be a Some of her favorite memo- where she is part of the Mergers After receiving her bachelor’s Britain).” Although she still says flamboyant but always expres- lawyer or a journalist.” But, ries from her years at Pingry, and Acquisitions department. degree, Zoellner already knew that she “would be happy to go sive, and the media business just once she got to college, she which she entered in 7th grade, Entering Pingry in the sixth that she wanted to become a back to a law firm” because she attracts a very urbane culture.” “decided she did not like law” come from when she was at- grade, Zoellner has fond mem- lawyer. In a recent interview, she finds the environment “very col- She also said that as a news- and is happy with what she tending with her brothers. She ories of her education at the shared that she “always had a legial,” Zoellner decided to work paper, the Times is “very intrin- chose. especially remembers when school. She said, “My son now combination of good communi- for the Times so that she and her sically interesting, and it covers Schachter’s two older broth- her brother, Tim Lear ’92, now has [social studies teacher] Mrs. cation and analytical skills, [...] husband, a managing investor very broad topics from travel to ers, Tim and Chris Lear ’92, Pingry’s Director of College Everett, whom I loved. She was and that there was probably some who was travelling extensively books to editorials, captivating an attended Princeton before Counseling, was the president just so wonderful.” Although she adult who thought I was a wise when they were young, could enormous range of interests.” Schachter. Therefore, in mak- of the S.A.C. ing her college decision, “I Two courses that Schachter guy in the second grade.” She settle down and start a family. Zoellner’s advice to Pingry remembers, “not being a very had the four year perspective especially remembers from her students is to “get everything of their experience to judge time at Pingry are “Freedom out of Pingry you can because it from.” Schachter decided to with Mr. Keating and my inde- truly preps you very well for the attend Princeton because her pendent study classes with Mrs. ups and downs that are to come.” brothers spoke of compelling Geacintov.” She also stressed the importance coursework, “but more im- “Both teachers encouraged of maintaining good ethics in portantly the people they met independent thought from their today’s society, saying that “when were amazing, and I wanted to students and challenged us to times are good, everyone can be surrounded by an equally improve our writing skills, but afford to be high and mighty, smart, dynamic and diverse in unconventional ways.” but when people begin to panic, student body.” Schachter also remembers ethics really kick in.” More than After Schachter had worked “Mr. Bourne, who was incred- in marketing for companies, anything, she said students should ibly fun as my softball coach” she “really wanted to work for and “[German teacher] Mr. “deal with adversity by sticking a brand that was global and still LaValette. The level of energy by their friends and the core developing.” At the time, the he brought to the classroom values that they have the luxury NBA was just the right place everyday was unbelievable.” of absorbing at Pingry.” to go, as it was still expanding Additionally, Schachter has In her free time, Zoellner also to locations such as China, memories of “Blairstown sport- enjoys playing golf, ice-skating, India, and the Middle East, ing events and dances.” and participating in sports with and was a brand with a lot of “I had a wonderful, happy her children. She is a great ex- growth. However, one obstacle childhood,” Schachter said. ample of someone who has found that Schachter faced regarding “While at Pingry I learned a balance between her personal working for NBA was that she a great deal and made great “had never worked in sports friends, but more than that, I Courtesy: Pingry Communications and career life, enjoying success Mrs. Zoellner talks with Pingry students at Career Day. in both worlds. before.” remember laughing a lot.” Working for the NBA, her Schachter summed up her group “focuses on the one- experience while at Pingry by to-one relationship fans have saying “[it] was an incredible Harry Allen ‘82 Manages Consulting with the leagues (NBA, WNBA six year educational experi- and Development League). We ence, without which I would are responsible for the direct never have ended up where I Design Firm and Designs Furniture marketing efforts with our fans am today.” about myself,” a primary focus of tending Pratt. He believes he has at yourself objectively.” From globally – everything from Schachter’s advice to Pingry By BRANDON BRIER (V) his high school years that became lived in “great joy” following this his own experience, he realizes Facebook to e-mail, text [mes- students about the future is “in Since graduating 27 years a central priority. career shift and is thrilled to work that true happiness is finding an sage] to Twitter.” college, don’t focus on studying ago, Harry Allen ’82 has become Perhaps Allen’s greatest testa- in a realm for which he is truly individualized life choice, not One challenge that Schachter a certain trade. Rather, focus on a successful furniture and interior ment is to the character of the “well-suited.” On these grounds, one prescribed for you. It “is a faced in choosing an occupation learning, on reading and writing designer. After studying political students, who he observed were he recommends to all students to great benefit to see yourself,” was making a decision on prior- well, and on articulating. Stu- science at Alfred University and notably “thoughtful and analytic seek “lots of varied experiences, Allen remarks, “and nurturing ity: whether to follow “money dents should also learn the im- earning a degree in industrial before they spoke.” As such, it travel, ask questions, and look that” brings true happiness. or to follow my heart with a portant skills of negotiating and design from the Pratt Institute in was “a great place to come of job I really love.” Schachter standing up for themselves.” Brooklyn, he focused his career age,” he reflects, because count- on interior design. Currently, Al- less “thoughtful people” were len manages his own company, eager to become “friends and Harry Allen Design, a consulting colleagues.” Entrepreneur Amanda Freeman ‘94 Runs design firm which specializes in Although his focus in youth “industrial design, interior de- was not strictly on academics, sign, graphic design, and identity Allen appreciates the stimulat- Online Fitness and Nutrition Newsletter development.” ing intellectual environment at Although he recommends Pingry and has sought similar By JENNY GORELICK (V) confident that she wanted about and the consumer been preparing for a large this advanced degree for anyone interactions as he matured. An After graduating from to eventually have a career groups.” event that Vital Juice is seeking a similar career, Allen experienced traveler, Allen has Pingry and later Duke Uni- in business. “Running my After gaining important sponsoring. She is planning acknowledges that success in his met with innumerable communi- versity, Amanda Freeman own business was something work experience from the a “wellness retreat, creat- field comes “from many different ties, all of which he wishes were ’94 went on to start her own I was pretty focused on at a Intelligence Group, Freeman ing a three-day experience directions.” He encourages those such “considerate populations” business, Vital Juice Daily, a young age,” she said. started her own business. within an empty retail space who bring “order to ideas” to as Pingry. Such expeditions website and free daily e-mail A sociology major in “I always had ideas for and offering free nutritional consider a career such as the one have continually expanded his College, Freeman recalls, new things so I finally be- consultations and beauty that he has chosen. newsletter about fitness, nu- horizons, continuing the learn- “I loved Duke because the lieved that I had the nerve to treatments.” She feels most Recollecting his days at Pin- trition, beauty, and wellness. ing process from schooling as he weather was great. It was actually do it,” she said. fulfilled with her work when gry, Allen realizes that he was Vital Juice is mentioned in has appreciated interacting with On her average workday, she looks at the statistics “not a fantastic student” but “was a wide range of publications a work hard, play hard en- the world’s “beautiful tapestry Freeman goes “through all proving that Vital Juice is infected by the general spirit of of people.” and television shows, in- vironment.” She went on the emails that have accu- “successfully growing be- accomplishment” nonetheless. In reflecting on his past as a cluding USA Today, People to receive a graduate de- He attributes his success in col- whole, Allen ultimately believes Magazine, The New York gree from Harvard Busi- mulated. I meet with my ad cause of our subscriber base lege, as a Cum Laude inductee that “life is so long and circu- Times, and the Rachael Ray ness School. Immediately sales person to discuss dif- and the ads we sell.” and commencement speaker at itous” that everything eventually Show. While the company is after college, she worked ferent meetings or proposals Freeman advises current his graduation, to the preparation fell into place as he became an located in New York City, at the Intelligence Group, a that we’re sending out and high school students to “be he had received at Pingry. Most industrial designer. Recogniz- its newsletters also cater to market research and trend- pursue different marketing open-minded about different of all, he “learned to interact and ing his creative side, he always residents of Los Angeles, consulting firm. cross promotions.” job opportunities and career communicate at Pingry,” enjoy- hoped to pursue this career path, while its e-mails specifically “I worked with amazing While building her busi- paths.” She also notes, “You ing the opportunity to meet the which eventually “found him” target parents with small women. It was a small com- ness, Freeman had to face don’t have to choose one many “great people” that guided after he was bored with his jobs children. pany, a start up. I got a great many obstacles along the career and stick with it. “ his education. following college. Realizing that While at Pingry, Free- deal of varied experiences, way such as “going without She highly recommends a He gives extra praise to Mrs. he “was never happier than when man enjoyed her classes and I got a lot of responsibil- a salary” and investing her career as an entrepreneur. Diane Handlin, the pottery teach- he was being creative,” Allen with Mrs. Susan Ortner, ity very early on,” Freeman own money. She said, “There is a lot to er who acted as a “great mentor” found a job in which he was truly Mr. Emanuel Tramontana, said. Working with the Intel- “It is important to ride the be said for pursuing your in his life by “believing in my “happy and engaged.” and Mr. William Bourne. ligence Group exposed her ups and downs and not give passion and being your own ability” and “pushing me to be Nachum Tevet, an Israeli Even as a high school stu- to “a lot of variety in terms up,” she said. boss and seeing your hard better than I was.” Her guidance sculptor, helped him add direction of the industries I learned Recently, Freeman has work pay off.” assisted him in “discovering to his life and recommended at- dent, Freeman was always Page

V8o l u m e CXXXV, Nu m b e r 6 SpThe Pingry o School, Martinsville r, New t Jersey S Ma y 11, 2009 Softball Starts Strong After Solid Preseason practices during their training By ANJANA GANTI (IV) days. On other days, the varsity After losing seven seniors at team would have doublehead- the end of last year, the softball ers and the JV would have one team still has high hopes for the game. The players worked hard spring season. The team, cap- in the morning and then enjoyed tained by Emma Carver (VI) and themselves at the many Disney Maja Feenick (VI) and coached theme parks during the afternoon. by Leslie Miller, Sheree Hoskins, The players bonded well through and Alison Grill, is determined to playing softball, as well as spend- work hard and not suffer from the ing free time together. loss of its previous players. Back at Pingry, the team had a The team started its preseason strong start, winning its first game with a trip to Orlando, Florida. In against Montclair Immaculate Florida, The team had a record Conception High School by a of 3-2-1, making it one of its large margin. Although the team most successful preseasons. The lost to Delaware Valley 12-9, the team faced teams of different skill girls are determined to improve. levels from around the country, As Carver put it, “If we continue which helped the players prepare to work hard, this season could for the season ahead. definitely be a great one”. The trip was an opportunity for The team has many more both training and team bonding. important games coming up and “Florida’s a great way to start off the players are very excited at the Courtesy of fotki.com the season. We have fun and learn prospect of a successful season. to work together on the field as a Rebecca Hamm Conard (VI) team,” said Emily Crooker (IV). describes the team as “an amazing Boys’ and Girls’ Track Vie for State Title they have the organization and This season holds special im- last year, which was really dis- The players had one-hour bat- group of people who support each By MARY KATE MARTINSON (IV) skills to be champions. portance to the returning athletes appointing. We seniors on the ting practices and two-hour field other in every possible way.” Track and Field started out According to the boys’ track who faced bitter defeat at the team would love to win the title this season with a bang on April captains Matt Laforgia (VI) and Non-Public B State Champion- back before we graduate, and 1st when the boys and girls Matt Ford (VI), their victories ship last year. The girls had held we certainly have the talent to crushed the visiting team Im- were expected and they are the title for eight years straight. pull it off.” maculate Conception at their first confident many more will come. Sowinski explained that the girls As championship season dual meet. Despite frigid rain and Laforgia stated, “We are looking are determined not to lose the draws near, with the motivation unseasonably low temperatures, for our third straight undefeated title again: “I think our biggest of the athletes, conviction of their the disciplined Pingry runners dual-meet season. We also have goal for the year is to win back captains, and talent of the coach- did not give themselves an ex- an advantage going into the the Non-Public B State title. The ing staff, spirits are high. Already, cuse to slow down. Instead, they spring season now because a team is very motivated and it has the senior captains have broken dominated their opponent: the lot of our athletes trained over shown in the first few weeks of records, snatched titles. For ex- girls won 103-9 and the boys 95- the winter on the Winter Track practice. If everything goes right ample, the Distance Medley Re- 30. The girls boasted victories in team, so they are already in good at States, we have a very good lay team consisting of Laforgia, all events and their captain Kate shape.” Ford believes the key to shot at winning.” Carlton Bowers (VI), Andrew Sowinski (VI) commented, “Our their success lies in the hands, Laforgia shared similar senti- Sartorius (VI), Dan Schuchin- victory showed that we have or legs, of the newcomers. “The ments about the boys team. He sky (VI)) took both titles at the depth across all of our events. seniors who will be graduating believes Pingry has the talent to Somerset County and Colonial We’re hoping to get better each at the end of this year make up win: “We would like to pick up Hills Conference Relays. Helen week and to set personal bests in a large part of the team’s core,” the Non-Public B State Cham- Daifotis (IV) summed up the our championship meets.” he said, noting that “a lot of the pionship again this year. After season’s goal: “We are ready to Since then, the track team has underclassmen talent is going to winning it in 2007, Holy Cross go and get back our title!” won every meet of the season. shine through this year.” came into group B and took it The coaches and athletes are looking forward to the Somerset County Meet and proving that Lacrosse Improves on Last Season B. Hamm Conard (VI) midfield Chris Christensen state championship would be By DAN MULLER (V) Upcoming Big Blue Games (V) said, “after our slow start, a big accomplishment for the Despite the loss of several we were really able to get it team,” said senior defense- contributing seniors from together and currently we’re men Jack Muller (VI). last year’s team, the boys’ playing our best lacrosse of Head coach Mike Webster, lacrosse team has started off the season.” in his 21st season with the Friday, May 8- Boys’ Varsity Lacrosse vs. strong, already surpassing its Led by captains Eric Big Blue, has stressed the win count from one season Oplinger (VI) and Abram importance of hustle and Millburn ago. With a record of 7-3, the Bernstein (VI), the team team defense. Thus far, this team has bounced back from is trying to win at least 10 mentality has seemed to pay early losses to both St. Joe’s games this season, which dividends. Despite a difficult Wednesday, May 13 - Boys’ and Girls’ Varsity of Metuchen and Madison to would be a complete turn- loss to Hillsborough, 8-6, in win six straight and climb around from last season’s the county tournament, the Track - Prep A Championships @ Peddie to a #7 non-public ranking. mark of 5-10. Also, the team team is determined to qualify Among the team’s victories wants to play in a champion- for and perform well in the were upsets over #11 Ridge ship final this year. “To play NJSIAA tournament, which Saturday, May 16 - Girls’ Varsity Lacrosse vs. and #8 Moorestown. Junior in a county, conference, or begins in the coming weeks. Madison Monday, May 18- Boys’ Varsity Baseball @ Glen Ridge Wednesday, May 20- Boys’ Varsity Tennis vs. Morristown Beard

Courtesy of the Star Ledger