Lamplighter October 13, 2011
A Year Without Country Fair
Lamplighter
Meg Huckaby Country Fair, one of Derryfield‘s favorite community gatherings/ fundraisers/ festivals, was cancelled this year. After one postponement and a plethora of crossed fingers against an inclement Saturday, October 1st, the school had to abandon its plans for this year‘s event. Of course, not all plans have been forsaken. Some students are trying to rally their forces and bring the planned country fair booths indoors in the weeks to come. The senior class will carry through with Rent-A-
Senior, as will the juniors with their parking spot raffle, so look for these booths during lunch. Of course, the rain date introduced an unfortunate dynamic as the majority of the senior class had a conflict: the SAT‘s. Unfortunately, the national test date would have prevented the seniors from running their booths as planned. Senior Ryan Stevenson commented that he believed he was ―one of two seniors who could actually go to Country Fair.‖ Though Ryan was sad to
New School Policies
miss country fair, he did remark that he would appreciate the extra homework time.
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Inside this issue:
Trips
2
International Students
4
Sports Help Students Socialize
4
Inside this issue:
Horoscopes
5
Fashion
6
Sports
8
Technology
9
Arthur Krogman
For the foremost authority on the new rules, Lamplighter went to Mr. John Bouton, The Dean of Student Life. Mr. Bouton was as glowing as ever on a rainy Tuesday morning, striking the balance of boldness and fashion. Mr. Bouton offered his stance on the hours of operation for Derryfield, saying: ―Well in part, I think it‘s won-
derful to have a versatile community, but for example a few weeks ago we came in late from a golf match and - it was around 8:45- there were three guys just chilling,‖ Mr. Bouton says, gesturing toward the senior forum. ―We don‘t really have the necessary supervision, and to tell the truth, I‘ve only had one parent push for earlier
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LAMPLIGHTER
DERRYFIELD NEWS
Country Fair Continued Many were quite dismayed by the cancellation; Riley Greer, a freshman this year, said: ―I was so excited for country fair! It‘s the only real opportunity for the freshman class to fundraise. We had some great booths planned- I was running a booth selling cotton candy.‖ Sadly, the freshman will not be able to bring their booths inside, but
hopefully the class will find more creative ideas to bring in revenue for their class. English teacher Mr. Anthony, when questioned as to his reaction to Country Fair‘s cancellation, remarked: ―It‘s too bad for the people who were looking forward to it.‖ Of course many of us do look forward to Country Fair and the
community gathering it presents- it certainly feels funny to begin the year without the annual event. It looks like this year we are all in the same boat as the Crosscountry team!
School Trips: Old Memories, New Horizons Roz Kennybirch The theme surrounding the upper school global trips this year seems to be a theme of nostalgia and enjoying journeys that students have taken in years past: there will be a trip to Costa Rica (a global trip that was cancelled last year), a trip to Nepal (visited three years ago), a scientific expedition to Ecuador (with a similar visit being the recent Galapagos trip), a Semester at Sea voyage along the Amazon (similar to the voyage to Central America was taken last year), and a Habitat for Humanity trip (an annual trip for at least the past five years). While some may find the trip choices repetitive, the trips could also be seen as so successful in the past that students are beg-
ging to return. Dr. Sanford, who led the Galapagos Islands trip one year ago, remarks: ―The [Ecuador] rainforest trip is the next step in getting involved in field research that matters. We did a little of that on Santa Cruz in the Galapagos, but it really was not what I was looking for as students were not directly involved in the planning and collecting of data. In the rainforest, they will be witnessing new and threatened spieces and recording what is in the field… This is research that matters and that students should find exciting.‖
Last year Dr. Sanford was able to go on the Habitat for Humanity trip. In this case, Dr. Sanford speaks of more of a community experience than a scientific one: ―All the Habitat trips with students are considered important for the region that most needs our help. When students like you can take time from their vacation to help others build and eventually move into their own home, we all feel better
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Policies Continued opening hours.‖ Mr. Bouton went on to say that ―one of his happiest moments at Derryfield‖ was when one of the building and grounds members told him in the context of the later opening hour, and earlier closing hour, that ― It had been easier to clean,‖ indicating that the new rule has been a successful addition to Derryfield‘s administration. To obtain another opinion on the debate of the new rules of the operating hours of Derryfield, Lamplighter interviewed Mrs.
Katy Keefe-Hancock, Director of Academic Scheduling & Placements at Derryfield. ―I understand why, I do wish that we could get here earlier because of student needs. In regards to closing the school at six, I believe it is something we had to do for safety.‖ Mrs. KeefeHancock raises an interesting view of the new rules, one that splits the opening and closing times into two different arguments. Nevin Stevens, an active member of the student body and captain of the
Trips Continued about our lives and the lives of others.‖ Another trip that will be repeated this year is the Semester at Sea trip. Celine Boutin ‗12, who went on this voyage, claims: ―I loved the Semester at Sea trip; however, I discovered that I get very sea sick so I will not be participating again. However I would highly recommend this trip! We had the opportunity to explore new places and made some great friends.‖ One trip that will not be occurring again is the India trip, but one of a simi-
lar nature will be the Nepal trip. Junior Shelby Anderson went on last year‘s India trip, and enjoyed working with the children. ―Meeting the children was very rewarding because they were very friendly. They went out of their way to make you happy. They all wanted to hold your hand‖. This positive aspect of the India trip, namely the joy of working with others, will be apparent in the and Nepal trip.
varsity soccer team, collaborates with the earlier point, and adds his thoughts of a possible conflict. He tells Lamplighter, ―I understand where they‘re coming from, but in the mornings, think about the parents that might have to drop of their kids before work; they might not have any other options.‖
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NEWSLETTER TITLE
Derryfield’s International Students
Shiming Xiong ‘13 Photo by Raabia Malik
Lindsay Pollock ing to the U.S. ―It was new and different, but I like it,‖ says Tempo Li, senior. ―I got used to it pretty fast. I hate old stuff. I‘m lucky I ended up at Derryfield.‖
Derryfield has hosted many international students throughout the years, but has decided as of last year that we will host at least one student every year from now on. This year, we have five students from China, whose names are Tempo (a returning senior), Sol (a returning senior), Shirming (a junior), Dong (a junior), and Vivien (a sophomore). Derryfield has a relationship with a program called Laur Asian, which is a non-profit organization where students from Asia express what their ideal school would be (for example: small or large), and are matched up with an American school. ―The students have the same application process as everyone else who applies to Derryfield,‖ says Mrs. Grodman,
Director of Service and Global Education. ―We interview them over skype, because it‘s a little difficult to get them here in person. As for the future, we are trying to get more diversity in our exchange students.‖ As for the students themselves, they each have had different experiences in com-
In China, students go to school at 7:30 am and leave at 5:30 pm. ―I usually stay up doing homework until midnight,‖ says Shirming, junior. ―But it is a different kind of ‗hard‘ here. In China, we have more studying, but here, you have sports and activities that take up more time.‖ Both students agree that the U.S. and China are very different places, whether it is the academic or cultural differences. With five students from China this year, Derryfield has had more international students than ever before.
Sports Help New Students Socialize Jake Smiley
In what comes across as a stunningly unexpected revelation to most readers, new students do - as the title suggests - have an easier time socializing if they participate in a fall sport. Andonios Kouninis ‗14 commented: ―The DS Crew Team‘s extensive preseason really helped me get to know the team, the sport, and the mindset of the school.‖ Nearby freshmen ―crewbies‖ were inclined to agree. Another
interviewee, Hannah Morse ‗15, pointed out that ―even the ones who weren‘t at preseason had an easy time fitting in.‖ Now, this could just be Derryfield‘s generally warm, fuzzy, gentile, coddling, oppressively welcoming atmosphere. New students are welcomed wherever they go. However, one anonymous new student, voiced some
regret that he had not started the year with a sport. ―I see a lot of kids who know upperclassmen and teachers, and I‘m…like…still not sure I know everyone, you know?‖ Several freshmen were persuaded to admit that they found their preseasons better introductions to the school than the comparatively short retreats.
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Horoscopes HUMAN INTEREST
Hannah Spierer Libra (September 23 – October 22): As much as you love to avoid conflict, Libra, a disagreement between you and a friend will put you both on edge. Work to fix it, and on the 17th, Venus will help you solve the issue in a civil manner. Scorpio (October 23 – November 21): You‘ll be introduced to an amazing mentor on the 19th, but that doesn‘t mean you should slack off. Work hard to achieve the goals you have set for yourself this year! Sagittarius (November 22 – December 21): Jupiter is in your zone this week! Make a difference in the community by volunteering for community service projects in your area. You‘ll feel so accomplished afterwards! Capricorn (December 22 – January 19): The stars will be in your favor over the next couple of weeks. If you show some compassion towards your friends, they‘ll really begin to open up and you‘ll be proud of what you‘ve done. Aquarius (January 20 – February 18): Let your unique personality glow this week! Step out of your comfort zone and try something new. You may surprise yourself. Pisces (February 19 – March 20): As Neptune begins to make its way into your sphere, you may get too optimistic about something that is unrealistic. Try toning it down, and take your days one step at a time. Aries (March 21 – April 19): As Mars begins to align with the sun, your outgoing risk taking personality will start to shine. Start to branch out and make new friends; you might surprise yourself as to who you find! Taurus (April 20 – May 20): Your work load is getting heavy again, but stay strong Taurus! Keep your head high and keep working hard and you can succeed. Gemini (May 21 – June 20): As the stars begin to align, you‘re in for a great week! Start to explore a new topic of interest, whether it‘s in our out of school, but be cautious because the next week may bring tough times. Cancer (June 21 – July 22): In the near future, you will have to make a major decision, but don‘t let it take you away from your schoolwork and social life. And don‘t let it affect your relationships. Leo (July 23 – August 22): Mega drama is in store between you and your friends, Leo. But work to find a solution to the issues and assure your friends that you can be a trustworthy person. Virgo (August 23 – September 22): Your compassionate personality will come in handy very soon. A friend in need will want your support and love and use your loyalty to the best of your ability.
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NEWSLETTER TITLE
Fashion Noelani Stevenson and Missy Wolf
Happy Fall, and happy outerwear season! Kick off the year with some unique pieces that‘ll last you into the winter and keep you looking stylish.
Leather Jackets: From bomber to motorcycle, leather jackets will always look good and keep you toasty and dry. Vegan (or just on a budget)? Try a PVC or leatherette jacket, which has all the style of leather, but with no animal products and a much lower price tag. A metallic finish adds an unexpected pop and will make you look radiant.
Metallic Leatherette Jacket
Peacoats: Infinitely feminine, with a hint of military style, a good wool peacoat will last you a long time. Look for one with a defined waist to flatter your figure and a bold print for fun.
Plaid Peacoat
Got An Opinion? We Want to Hear It! Email 12mcochrane@derryfield.org or rmmccoy94@gmail.com to have YOUR opinion published in Lamplighter!
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Bachelor and Bachelorette: Elijah Gorton and Brittany Northrup Celine Boutin and Leah DeWitt
Elijah Gorton
Brittany Northrup
What do you look for in a significant other?
Describe your ideal significant other.
Eh smart... outgoing... pretty much anything the opposite of Celine. Also if the first name [had a] b, that would preferable. What is your ideal first date?
Going to the circus you know. I like to pet the elephants. What do you consider to be your best attribute?
Have you seen this? What would you do on an ideal Saturday night?
LAX IT UP! What is your favorite type of music?
I don't really know; rap I guess. I really like Stuntin Like Mufasa. Pretty much anything we listen to in my carpool. Not gonna lie, Becca and Celine have pretty good taste in music. What is your perfect outfit for a first date?
Flannel. And maybe my favorite Fischer hat and my aviators so she can't see where I'm looking... I really like to look out windows.
Someone who's outgoing but not so outgoing that our personalities would clash. They need to be able to hold a conversation and not be boring. Taller than me. Hmm… Now for the deep stuff: someone who's respectful of me and my family — that‘s a big one for me. Trustworthy, humorous, athletic. That's pretty much it. I don't have that high of expectations. What is your favorite type of music?
I will listen to any music except Taylor Swift & Ke$ha. Hit me up with anything else, and I'll listen to it — and most likely enjoy it! What is the best way to woo you?
Best way to woo me… Hmm… Never thought about this one. Well, I love being surprised. Anything involving surprises? The best. Like surprise hugs, surprise coloring books, surprise flowers, anything along those lines! What are you looking forward to most this year?
Hmm… Probably the day the world is supposed to ―end.‖ Describe your perfect date.
I don't really have an idea for a "perfect" date. I guess the date would just be perfect if I was with that "perfect" someone. …If that makes any sense at all? There isn't a set date I would want. As long as I'm with him, the location and plans of the date shouldn't matter, right? What is the most important element in a relationship?
Thanks to our Contributors! Editor in Chief: Maggie Cochrane Managing Editor: Rachel McCoy News Editor: Roz Kennybirch Sports Editor: Ben Moll Human Interests Editor: Jessa Fogel Layout Editor: Lily Karlin Photography Editor: Raabia Malik And of course our brilliant staff!
Most important element in a relationship is honesty. That's a pretty self-explanatory one. Lying just creates a very dramatic and tense relationship, which is definitely NOT a good one.
NEWSLETTER TITLE
DERRYFIELD SPORTS
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Varsity Field Hockey 2011 Cait Gillett
This year‘s field hockey season has started off well. The team has eight wins so far, despite the fact that they lost 50% of their starting players from last year. The team has four games left in the regular season and Coach Lenny McCaigue expects the team reach the final four. This year‘s squad is led by Senior Captains Ellie Lynch and Abby Durant.
The JV team gets to practice with the varsity during preseason and both teams warm up together and do some technical drills. Mr. McCaigue really values the importance of the JV team because it improves players‘ skills and prepares them for the varsity level. There are four swing players, who alternate in pairs at JV and Varsity games.
Since 1997, when the sport started as a club team, it has had great success. For the last eight years, the Varsity team has made it to the finals and, for the first time in 2007, won a Division III State Championship. After some rebuilding, the team was able to bring home another championship in 2010.
Do You Want to be a Sports Writer? Contact Ben Moll, Sports Section Editor, at 12bmoll@derryfield.org Golf 2011 Grant Alenson
After losing such notable seniors such as Marty McCormick and Alex Jenney, some might have said that the golf team was in for an uncharacteristically bad year. But, with the help of some new freshman like Patrick McGinley and Peter Thompson, the Golf team is back on track to a potential Top 5 finish this season. Patrick, playing in the first spot for the team,
and Peter, in the second spot, leave the team this year with a promising future. Even though the golf Team might lose notable seniors again this year, namely Peter Kosiarski and Matt Sherman, there are more freshman and sophomores eager to step up that are currently on the JV team. Mitchell Huckaby and Keegan Westbrook improved in
their game greatly and had a wonderful season, gaining the respect of even the top varsity players. Despite the loss of such golf powerhouses as Marty McCormick, who constantly shot under 40‘s, the team doesn‘t look too shabby for the years to come.
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Thoughts on the Technology Policy Ryan Stevenson
Did you know that we had a new technology policy? Neither did I! Not until the great Student Council slide show. Derryfield has, in the past, been somewhat byzantine when it comes to new policies. Usually, there is a lot of disagreement, and everyone has an opinion. That is until this year, when we all got a brand new set of rules. What I like most about this new policy is that it just reaffirms what has already been happening at DS already. And any new additions are things that students should actually do. In the student handbook and online are nice little write ups of how to deal with our gadgets. Cell phones and iPods have come a long way, and finally we have a policy that reflects current American culture while balancing the fact that—like it or not—we are at school. Simple things like ―avoid walking while using a personal computing device‖ to ―avoid creating noise near others‖ make a lot of sense. Look up ―Girl Falls In Mall Fountain While Texting‖ on YouTube (NOT while at school, or else Cougarnet will go into a coma), to see why Student Council is saying this. Also, there are a few tips about dealing with computers that I think should be obvious, but still cause issues: ―Frequently back up your work,‖ ―Check your DS email,‖ and ―assume everything you do online can be seen by the entire world,‖ among others. That‘s the easy bit. Texting is a trickier subject. What is ironic about the new texting policy (Don‘t text conversationally, don‘t text and walk [see video above], only text parents) is that it has virtually been in effect: somehow students just did it on their own. However, it is always a good idea for the Student Council to make it clear that you cannot text during either class, or assembly, or whenever it is not appropriate. One of the funnier moments during research came when I was reading page 21 of the handbook in my planner. Here are the two best quotes: ―The School reserves the right to scan all floppy disks for viruses…‖ and ―Game playing, Instant Messenger, Gnutella, Napster and other non-academic activities are not allowed on any computer….‖ I‘m pretty sure that I have never even touched a floppy disk and I now I‘m hungry for some Nutella. Gnutella. I have no clue what that is. Looking to the future, we know that many of the faculty, staff and administration have been trying out their nice new iPads. I hope that they are successful (until the iPad 3 comes out and they have to get new ones). Actually, I am really curious about how this experiment goes, and whether electronics will replace your notebook and pen. I hope the school keeps us posted on iPad use. I also had a conversation with Student Body President Breanna Northrup about the possibility of incorporating swipe cards (like they have a colleges) to be both a form of student identification as well as a money supply. She said that she had talked
to ―Dean of Darkness‖ Mr. Hastings about the plan, and that they were seriously considering it. This is really great, seeing as this could potentially alleviate our crawling lunch line catastrophe as well as that awkward moment when you don‘t have any money for a dance. We would all appreciate these fun cards (until we lose them, of course…). I‘m pretty surprised to say it, but Derryfield did really well with technology so far, and I give Mr. Bouton, Student Council, the faculty and staff, and the students a lot of credit for dealing so well with something so new. Now, if only that feeling could translate to the dance policy… To read more about the technology policy, go to:
https://www.derryfield.org/ftpimages/43/download/2011_DS_Tech_Policy_Changes.pdf as well as pages 8 and 20-3 in your planner. I am also working with Mr. Bouton about expanding the current Derryfield Upper School Facebook page, which would work with the DS Email to keep you informed. See Mr. Bouton or me if you have suggestions. My email is 12dstevenson@derryfield.org.
By Annie Branch
SPORTS PHOTOS
Letter from the Editor This issue has been fantastic to put together. After releasing a paper written solely by our section editors and senior writers, this is our first issue with new and old staff. They have clearly worked very hard and done a great job. I‘m really overwhelmed by the talent here and I cannot wait to see where we can take Lamplighter this year! That‘s all for now. As always, if you want to join the Lamplighter staff, contact me on facebook or via email (12mcochrane@derryfield.org). Even if you don‘t want to be a staff writer, if you have a topic that you are passionate about and want to write an article, feel free to submit one. Thanks again for enjoying the Lamplighter! Maggie Cochrane Editor in Chief