Silhouette Spring 2022

ilhouette S

COLUMBUS SCHOOL FOR GIRLS

VOL. 62

ISSUE 3

March 2022

A Sit Down with Mrs. Seals Ciara Latham, XI Earlier this year, Mrs. Camille Seals was named CSG’s next Head of School. Though students and faculty are now familiar with this name, everyone cannot help but wonder: who is she? To answer this question, I sat down with Mrs. Seals and talked life, experience, and her vision for the future of CSG. With her current position as an Assistant Head of School, Mrs. Seals has an extensive background in education.

Her passion for girls’ schools stems from her time at Spelman College where she earned her Bachelor’s of the Arts.

She then went on to earn her Master’s at Tufts University. One experience that she believes prepared her for this position was her work with the Aspire program in the Greater Cleveland area.

She explained how the role spanned across different areas of work, saying, “When you have to play all the roles and put on all of the hats, I think it helps you develop an understanding [...] and an appreciation for the work that other people do. I think that allows me to lead in a way that’s collaborative.”

The experience from her previous roles put her on the path to CSG. Mrs. Seals detailed the video that drew her into the campus saying, “When I was looking into coming to CSG, I watched a video [...] and it ended with this beautiful brown girl smiling and looking into the camera, and then it was like ‘she will know her power’.” Seals was especially captivated by those words which have been a theme at CSG for a few years now, and she plans to keep them alive.

Mrs. Seals delved into her vision for CSG’s future while responding to questions from students. Asanda Ransier, X, asked, “What are you going to do to keep fostering diversity at an allgirl school?” Seals wants the answer to this question to be co-created. She wants to “get a real understanding of what the community values around diversity.”

The topic of diversity was highlighted again when I asked about minority representation in faculty. Seals says that whether someone is a minority or majority in their environment, “[they] need to be able to navigate those spaces.” Seals calls this “priority work” that she has had success with in the past. She says, “It’s not just that students of color need to have teachers of color to affirm them, but it’s that students who don’t identify as [people] of color need teachers of

Featured in This Issue: The Culture of Indian Culture Club An Inside Scoop with Eunice Going to the Zoo Stepping in on the MLK Program (with video!)

Falling in Love with the Choir CSG names Mrs. Camille Seals (pictured above) as the new Head of School. She will assume her position this July. Photo courtesy of Mrs. Seales.

“I think I just want people to know that

I am really really enthusiastic about the work that we’re gonna do together [...] we have the opportunity to build something really beautiful together.”

color to give them new lenses through which to see different experiences. [...]

We’re going to hire teachers of color because we want to run a school that is reflective of the world we all live in and that is bringing forth the voices and experiences of the diversity of our world.”

Seals and I also discussed the importance of wellness at CSG. In regards to the past two years, she says, “The need for health and well-

ness and self care is screaming at us.”

When asked about what she would do to foster wellness, Mrs. Seals replied: “I think it is my role and the role of our leadership team to help students and [...] families understand that you don’t have to choose between rigorous academics and healthy wellbeing.” Seals holds that modeling “a life of balance” is just one of the many tasks of the Head of School. She continued to explain that she is “responsible for the vision and

VERBATIM sustainability of the school.” Seals acknowledges that though the Head of School often seems like an abstract figure, she intends to build a bridge between herself and students. This balance will begin when Mrs. Seals takes up her new residence in Bexley.

She expressed her excitement to live on campus, stating, “It’s nice to be close to what you love.”

Seals also expressed her excitement about a few other opportunities that her new position will provide.

In response to a question from Emma Hardy, XII, asking what CSG tradition she is most excited to partake in, Seals remarked her eagerness to “get all dressed up” for Holiday Dinner.

Mrs. Seals is not the only one in her family eager to start at CSG. Seals’ two daughters are soon-to-be unicorns and “they’re really looking forward to it,” she says. Mrs. Seals will be making some visits to acquaint them with

CSG in the coming months and will also seize this time to get to know the community. A formal schedule is in the works for campus visits. “It will be a chance for me to hear from the community about what everyone is looking for, what everybody’s hopes and dreams are for the school,” she says; from this, “we’ll try to create a vision that is in alignment.”

Seals recognizes her transition to CSG is a big switch, but notes the timing is perfect. She is fully prepared to collaboratively shape the school into an environment for every individual in the community. When asked what message she wants to share with the school, Seals says: “I think I just want people to know that I am really really enthusiastic about the work that we’re gonna do together [...] we have the opportunity to build something really beautiful together.”

2 School Good Luck, Ms. Priest & Ms. Schultz!

Ruthie Saar, XII On February 25th, 2022, Ms. Trish Priest, CoCollege Counselor, wrapped up her CSG career to take a new job in North Carolina at the Queens University of Charlotte as the Director of Admissions.

Ms. Schultz, Co-College Counselor, will also be finishing her CSG career this year to work from home (except for when traveling to schools in Columbus and Cleveland) as the Northern Ohio Regional Admissions Counselor at the University of Kentucky.

Before her time at CSG, Ms. Priest worked as the Director of Admissions at Kenyon College, a liberal arts school in Gambier, Ohio. For the 2016-2017 school year, she started working in CSG’s Admis-

sions Office, while also enrolling her daughter, Carly Priest, XII. In 2018, she worked parttime as Co-College Counselor with Ms. Schultz and full-time in the Admissions Office. By the 2019-2020 academic year, Ms. Priest took on the college counseling position full-time.

Ms. Schultz worked in college admissions at the Ohio State University for four years.

She joined the CSG community to become CSG’s College Counselor starting in the 2008-2009 school year. She shared with me that she has kept every CSG photo directory since her first year, and even showed me my PYC school photo from 2008. When asked what she’ll miss the most, she replied a little teary-eyed, “It’s hard because it’s almost been fourteen years, but certainly what I will miss most is the students.

You all have just enriched my life in ways beyond measure.”

Together, Ms. Schultz and Ms. Priest have made a visible impact on the Upper School’s college counseling process. Ms. Schultz recalls, “In the spring of 2020, when the world was shut down, we hosted a Deans and Directors Panel on Zoom. [Ms. Priest] is well connected on the private school side, and I’m well connected on the public school

side, so together we’re a dynamic duo!” Even though “college admissions was in chaos,” the vice presidents, deans, or directors of Bates College, Trinity College (CT), Wesleyan University, the Ohio State University, and the University of Kentucky attended their panel. Ms. Priest and Ms. Schultz “[brought] people at the top of [their] field to students and families to give them reassurance and encouragement.”

Ms. Priest & Ms. Schultz on Ms. Priest's last day at CSG. Photo courtesy of Ruthie Saar, XII.

A few students from the senior class wanted to share their appreciation for Ms. Priest and Ms. Schultz and their guidance through the college process.

Emma Hardy, XII, reminisces, “Ms. Priest helped me find what I wanted. [...] I love how flexible she was. [...] I’ll be really sad when [Ms. Schultz and Ms. Priest] are gone.” Eva Weiland, XII, remembers traveling during her freshman year on the Costa Rica school service trip with Ms. Schultz, and having her as her college counselor: “She was supportive, and never told me that something was too much. She always encouraged me with the things that I wanted.”

Even though the CSG community will miss Ms. Schultz’s and Ms. Priest’s presence, we wish them the best in their future endeavors!

Ideas for Prom The Culture of Indian are Growing...

Culture Club Ciara Latham, XI

Prom is still on! Save the date April 23, 2022, for an evening of dancing and fun with friends. Prom will be held at Kirk Campus again, but this year underclassmen are welcome!

As usual, the Prom Committee, composed of six juniors, has been working out the event details.

Here’s what you can expect: The theme is a secret.

No, literally. This year’s theme is “Secret Garden,” and will be sure to fulfill all of your cottagecore dreams. Keeping with the woodland atmosphere of Kirk Campus, you will likely see twinkling lights, greenery, and florals. The Prom Committee drew inspiration from the butterflies in the arch by the senior commons. Additionally, Prom Committee member Finley Moffett, XI, says, “We want it to be a special night, particularly for the seniors. But, it’s going to be a good time for everyone.”

As always, the com-

mittee will be organizing several fundraisers this spring. Listen for announcements from the Prom Committee about upcoming bake sales. The budget will determine just how grand of a prom the committee can put together. But, the budget is dependent on fundraiser input. If you’re planning on going to prom, it’s important to participate in and donate to fundraisers as much as you can. Besides, buying a brownie isn’t the worst thing, right?

As for Covid protocols, an outdoor venue gives the greatest promise of a hassle-free prom, and Kirk Campus ensures this. Look out for more Covid-19 policy updates closer to the date.

Like Winter Formal, you can expect to bring a guest. Ticket sales will begin soon at $20 for seniors and $40 everyone else (including all guests). The Prom committee encourages everyone to attend and make meaningful memories.

Any questions are welcomed by a committee member or Ms. Castro!

This year's Prom Committee wants prom to flourish! Photo courtesy of Ms. Castro.

Ruthie Saar, XII It’s fourth period on B day, and you’re not in the mood to do homework because that after-lunch-laziness has just kicked in. One of your friends tells you that the Indian Culture Club (ICC) is having a meeting, so you decide to check it out.

You enter the Upper School art room and see a Bollywood movie playing on the screen, seniors Suhanna Halaharvi and Maya Gonela pondering the quality of acting, and Ms. O’Connor laughing at their commentary. Wanting to learn more about the history and impact of ICC, I spoke with the leaders of the club.

Even though ICC was technically established during the 2014-2015 school term, the club faded out until its revival in 2017 with Vara Mehra, ‘20, as the president until her graduation. Since then, the club has remained strong.

Maya Gonela, XII, vice president of Indian Culture Club, recalls that being part of ICC gave her the opportunity to discuss her heritage and diversity.

She explains: “I realized that I didn’t have as much representation as an Indian girl in high school, and that’s when I started to lean on Vara and [ICC].” After

Vara asked Maya to be secretary her sophomore year, she slowly became more intrigued by diversity. This instigated her leadership in the Social Justice Club and her enrollment in the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion course. Through ICC, Maya learned that if she wants representation, she has to fight for it: “I have to create the environment where we can talk about Indian culture. [ICC] has really helped me stand my ground.”

Ms. O’Connor, Upper School’s Visual Arts teacher, is the new advisor for Indian Culture Club this year. Compared to other clubs, Ms. O’Connor believes ICC is different: “I see it more as an extension to an affinity space. We welcome others who don’t identify as Indian to come and share experiences with club members. While I don’t identify as Indian, I feel good knowing that I can provide a safe space for [club members] and that they are comfortable with me.”

Suhanna Halaharvi, XII, serves as ICC’s president.

When asked how she obtained her position, Suhanna smiled fondly. She reminisces, “When I came [to CSG] sophomore year, learning that there was an Indian Culture Club was really surprising in itself because I hadn’t seen it before. I went to one of the meetings, and I learned stuff that

I should’ve known but didn’t, even about my own culture.

I grew up not really knowing anything, so it was nice to learn where my parents came from. I want to help others find that.”

One goal that Suhanna has for the club this year is to educate: “At CSG, there aren’t many South Asian people [...]. Learning about people that identify as [South Asian] is really helpful for South Asians and others who aren’t.”

Although membership is strong now, Suhanna admits her concern about the future. She confesses, “Having the club in general is a big milestone, [but] retaining the club is really important. I’m worried in the future that there won’t be anyone to run it.” To continue the club’s longevity, Suhanna encourages students to “branch out of [their] comfort zone” because “you don’t need to be South Asian or Indian to run or join the club as long as you have a genuine interest in the culture.”

In the past, the Indian Culture Club has held an assembly to teach the student body more about the culture. It hasn’t happened since 2019, but this year, it’s making a comeback.

Suhanna revealed that ICC will be speaking about Holi, one of the Indian holidays. So mark your calendars for this colorful presentation on March 18th, and visit Indian Culture Club!

3 School From Integration to Celebration:

The Complete Black History of CSG Ciara Latham, XI In 1957, Dr. Arleigh Richardson III assumed the position as CSG’s headmaster.

Under his tenure, Dr. Richardson instituted an open admissions policy, which initiated integration at CSG. Though diversity increased slowly, this was the first step on an upwards staircase of triumphs for CSG’s black community. What would follow was a saga of achievements and Black excellence that shaped the state of the school.

In the 1960s, Black students began to enroll at Columbus School for Girls. Some of the earliest Black girls are recorded to have entered Lower School, like Kayethel Bell, who joined Form I in 1966. Two years later, Denise Page Hood, ‘70,

began her freshman year. Judge Hood was the honored guest speaker at this year’s Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Program where she discussed her time here as a student. Many of her experiences resonated with current students of color. Social Justice Club’s Vice President, Cynthia McLarty, XI, posed the question: “We know CSG is 100 years old, but do we really think about the historical and deep-rooted implications that are in place from that… generational history?”

Similar sentiments provoked increasing efforts to support the growing Black population at school by the late 20th century.

By 1982, a group of students led the charge in preparing a week to honor Black history.

Then, from 1983 to 1989, Black History Club was founded as a

way to further educate students on Black America’s past. In 1990, the name was changed to Black Awareness Club, and in 2010 it became what is known today as Beauty of African American Culture Club, or BAACC. President Kayden Edwards, XII, said, “BAACC is a place where people who may not know our culture may learn it.

People can come and ask questions to better understand the African-American experience.”

In the last few years, affinity groups have been established in both Middle and Upper School for students with a shared identity to meet together with trusted adults. Expansion of DEIB (diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging) works as such were designed to make students feel heard and empow-

Going to the Zoo! Katie Ann Timcho, IX Coming up on April 8th is CSG’s seven-year tradition of celebrating Children’s Book Week, but this year it comes with a twist. This year, all thanks to Ms. Ruefle, the lower school librarian, we are going to the Zoo! All throughout the week, there will be many exciting activities ending with a trip to the zoo, with the entire school on Friday.

For some students, these amazing plan are still a surprise.“Interestingly enough, [students in lower school don’t] know we are going [to the zoo], but they are excited for Children’s Book Week.” says Ms. Ruefle. In case you don’t know what Children’s Book Week is, it is a “national celebration and the longest-running literary initiative in the United States of America. [The celebration] has been around since 1919!” states Ms. Ruefle. Every year, there is a new theme. Recalling past themes, Gabby Clarke, IX, exclaims, “I remember the cool pretty cakes and eating them!” Gabi Yuan, XI, remebers, “The medevil party where the little kids were kings and were so cute in their costumes!” This year's theme is Wild About Reading, so the Lower School is studying animals from all over the world, so many stu-

dents are just excited to learn.

One thrilling project is the special T-shirts. The entire school is going to be painting T-shirts to match a certain animal. Each grade is assigned one and everyone’s shirt will be matching with their little sis. For example, Forms IX and III will be painting bright green turtles!

One day during Children’s Book Week we all get to wear them.

Another day we get to wear any animal-themed accessories: shirts, shoes, jewelry, and anything else you can find, so start

digging through your closet now!

Another exciting event occuring that week is the reading festival in the gym. Lower School will be presenting their projects they have worked on all semester long. Also, there will be a reappearance of a certain 70-foot long whale blowup that you can actually climb inside!

So let’s get excited for Children’s Book Week and also give a round of applause to Ms. Ruefle for setting all these fun activities up and giving amazing details during this interview!

The lower schoolers are getting ready to turn into animals! Photo courtesy of Katie Ann Timcho, IX.

ered. Olivia Clarke, ‘21, took this idea one step further. As a junior, Clarke self-published her book Black Girl, White School: Thriving, Surving, and "No, You Can't Touch My Hair" An Anthology, in which her voice is heard as she touches on the major importance of having a strong support system. She wrote, “Being able to talk to other POC students and staff about my

problems is one of the things that helped me through rough times.”

By looking at change through the halls of CSG, we can honor those within our school: the trailblazers who worked so that the world not only changes around us, but so that anyone may usher that change. For nearly 60 years, Black girls at CSG have pioneered change with Forte et Gratum.

CSG's first class with a black student. Photo courtesy of Topknot.

Uniform Policy Changes Lauren LaRochelle, IX If a student from today stood next to a student from five years ago, you wouldn't believe they go to the same school. The uniform has changed so much it’s almost become a dress code.

Avery Sharfin, XII, has been at CSG since Form I. Avery told me that in Lower School, you weren't allowed to wear nail polish, crazy earrings, or have a crazy hairstyle. “In fifth grade it was like a privilege to wear nail polish,” she says. She used to wear “white socks with white tights, and navy socks with navy tights.” During her first year at CSG, they would wear what they called a winter uniform: this consisted of dark plaid skirts and navy socks. After spring break they would switch back to their regular uniform. A lot of the uniform changes came during Avery's freshman year.

Today, we don’t have a “winter uniform,” but we can wear sweatpants since we are keeping the windows open to help circulate air due to Covid. The sweatpants have been a huge move for us because now we don't have to wear tights that aren't warm.

In the past, students could only wear brown shoes, so they’d wear Sperrys or penny loafers. Then, CSG started to let

students wear tennis shoes, and now they can wear whatever shoes they want. There weren't any navy full or half-zip jackets before (Avery and her peers would have to wear the same sweaters every day), so many enjoy these new sweater options. Avery tells me that when the navy polo was added to the list a few years ago, it changed the uniform a lot because there was more variety. Avery “like[s] all the options, and I definitely think it's better for everyone that goes here, but it definitely feels more like a dress code and not a uniform anymore.”

Avery has helped me — and hopefully you — realize that our attire is not only a daily outfit but a tradition that has been a part of CSG for centuries.

Seniors repping their sweatshirts with their uniforms! Photo courtesy of Avery Sharfin, XII.

School 4 Advisor

How Does J. Hart Do It? Isabella Luckage, XI

Dr. Hattaway Ms. Davis Editor In-Chief Ruthie Saar, XII Senior Editor Kiera Rennick, XII Junior Editors Gabrielle Yuan, XI Ciara Latham, XI Staff Tori Johnson, XII Angelina Kofman, XII Isabella Luckage, XI

500 to 600 hours. This is how long Mr. Hartshorne estimates he spends on the whole scheduling process every year. This is a massive time commitment, and yet Mr. Hartshorne has been doing this job for over eight years!

You are probably wondering why Mr. Hartshorne decided to take on this role in the first place. In his words, he found “marked similarities between making the schedule and simply working out various types of logic puzzles.” Luckily for us, “[he] used to like to do logic puzzles,” so it was something that “intrigued and appealed to [him],” inspiring him to take on the challenge.

His process to design the schedule sounds just like a mind game. His first step is to look at all of the “singleton courses,” which are courses that only have one section, like AP Latin or AP European History. Then “the computer software will give [him] a conflict matrix.”

Essentially, this tells Mr. Hartshorne

Ellie Neitzel, IX

Della Jones, X

This semester, the seniors have been offered a new and exciting course at CSG taught by Dr. Hattaway. Literary and Cultural Disability Studies is a class that, according to Dr. Hattaway, introduces students to "thinking about disability as something that is linked to identity and something that is socially and politically constructed." Students will examine how disability is represented and talked about in literature and other media and will better understand disability through discussion.

Madi Kim, X Alysa Li, X Kristina Ma, X Allie Salamon, X Muriel Wallace, X Milania Babamovski, IX

is also critical to our everyday lives.

Though he has the system worked out pretty well, this was not always the case. In his wise words, “there is a learning curve to anything you ever do.” His first year designing the schedule was especially challenging. Despite frustration and having to completely restart that year, we can always depend on Mr. Hartshorne to get his job done: “It was the fourth of July holiday when Mrs. Hartshorne and I went and watched the fireworks, and then we came home afterwards and stayed up all night and together built the skeleton of the schedule.” Now that is determination!

Mr. Hartshorne has put thousands of hours into producing our every day schedules, and his dedication can be summed up in six words: “However long it takes, it takes.”

Though this process may seem like something you would hate to do, he “find[s] the puzzle fascinating.” Next time you see Mr. Hartshorne, say thanks for all his hard work!

Above: The Great Planning Board.

Photo courtesy of Mr. Hartshorne.

New Class Alert: Literary and Cultural Disabilities!

Anna Carey, X

Ava Kessler, X

what singleton classes would have the most overlap that could be avoided. He then uses this information to decide what courses can be taught at the same time, a common combination being AP Calculus AB and BC. As he begins to build the schedule, he also considers many restrictions: teachers who can only teach during certain times, classes that can only meet during certain periods, and more. Because CSG is multidivisional, his job is significantly tricky: “Our schedule isn’t really just an Upper School schedule.

The Upper School schedule has to fit with all four divisions.”

You may be worried about how your schedule will shake out, but rest assured, “the first priority is to have every student get every class that they’re interested in,” although “that’s almost impossible.” When a student cannot take all the classes they wanted, Mr. Hartshorne states, “It really upsets me, but that’s life.”

Moreover, he also tries his best to give both students and teachers the most balanced schedules possible.

This process is time consuming, but

CSG takes pride in educating students on topics they would not typically learn elsewhere. In fact, Dr. Hattaway hadn’t even learned about Disability Studies until she was a graduate student at OSU. While teaching at the university, students often asked Dr. Hattaway why this wasn't a topic they had encountered before in school. That was why Dr. Hattaway wanted to bring this study to CSG. Now, students are given the chance to become more knowledgeable about the world and the people in it. During my interview with Dr. Hattaway, she eagerly stated, “We tend to think about disability in terms of lack, what

a person struggles with. I want people to think of disability not [as a] lack, or diagnosis, but as the social construct it is.” With the help of Dr. Hattaway, this class could become a safe and engaging environment for everyone.

The CSG students have shown their interest in this topic, as many students have enrolled and are eager to learn more about this subject.

There are 22 students in the class.

Gia Noel Manokas, XII, stated that “after the first few classes it became a super comfortable environment where everyone expressed their ideas and opinions.” Students feel comfortable opening themselves up to learn about

and better understand disabilities. Gia Noel Manokas mentioned, “I was worried at first that I would be too scared to express what I was feeling about certain stories, but Dr. Hattaway has made this class extremely collaborative and makes sure everyone is involved in the discussion.”

As the year goes on, the Literary and Cultural Disabilities Studies class will continue to grow as the students have more and more in-class discussions, giving the CSG community an opportunity to develop a deeper understanding of the experience of disability.

Pet Corner

Lauren LaRochelle, IX Rose McLarty, IX Ellie Neitzel, IX Katie Ann Timcho, IX Club Mr. O'Grady's Sullivan knows his worth! Photo courtesy of Mr. O'Grady.

Abigail Falk, XII Maddy Wood, XI Fennik Lindstedt's, XII, Poppy loves popping into strange places! Photo courtesy of Fennik Lindstedt, XII.

Sadie Mapes's, IX, Georgia is stealing everyone's hearts! Photo courtesy of Sadie Mapes, X.

The Kleinmans', XI and IX, dashing Karmel is ready for business. Photo courtesy of Sammy Kleinman, IX.

Teacher

Anna Carey, X

Shriveled leaves, rotten roots, and drooping stems are common sights when you survey a beginner’s plant collection. I, too, have watched many plants struggle under my care, so I went on a quest to get words of wisdom on improving my currently not-sogreen thumb from people we can trust: our beloved CSG teachers.

Dr. D was the first plant parent I approached. Or should I say, former plant parent. He shared the tale of Lumpy: an indoor plant gifted to him in July.

By the time the air got cold, he had noticed it “wasn’t looking so hot.” After a friend’s futile attempt to revive it, an autopsy revealed the shocking truth: the

Tips

rotten core was infested with mites! Dr. D believed it to have been ill when he received it, concluding that “it’s the plant’s fault. I watered it.” Despite Dr. D’s suspect track record with the survival of plants, I hoped his advice would be useful. I expected a philosophical response about failure being the first step toward success, but instead, what I received was simple: “No one should ever take advice from me about plants.”

Luckily, I uncovered the green thumb of another teacher, Ms. Miranda, who has been gardening for 22 years. Like Dr. D, she struggles to grow houseplants, but her success in the garden ranges from tomatoes to herbs. After starting the process with only a few plots many years

Social Ava Kessler, X Do you follow @ colschoolforgirls? Or perhaps @csgathletics? Schools, such as CSG, use social media in many ways, such as promoting its sports teams, sharing important dates and activities, or highlighting students' stories.

Social media, however, can impact schools and their students both positively and negatively.

Social media can be used to enhance learning, encourage collaboration, and increase students' aspirations and familiarity with technology.

Students can utilize social media to connect with other students from different schools or even different countries, allowing for a broader understanding of those

A

Day

Allie Salamon, X Silhouette wants to put you in the shoes of a hardworking Mocktrialian member.

From the first day of practice, to the first invitational, and ending with the first competition of the season, how might these students feel as they take on Mock Trials many exciting challenges? Read ahead to imagine yourself along for the ride!

Today is the day: our first practice of the mock trial season. Learning how to write opening and closing statements, the rules to objections, and learning about case laws is exciting,

for

Your

ago, she now covers half her yard with various greens. She recommends starting tomato plants around March and attentively caring for them through June so they will flourish throughout the entire summer. “Another great tip for helping your plants thrive all while saving space is crowding your tomatoes amongst companion plants such as basil, parsley, and marigold. What a way to kill two birds with one stone!"

Adding plants not

Ms. Miranda's Tomato Seedlings Photo courtesy of Ms. Miranda

Media

around them. According to Casey Sussman, XII, “Social media has the power to help us become better informed individuals. We are exposed to a diverse range of opinions and beliefs which help shape our understanding of the world and prepare us for the future.” Seeing that social media sends out information so quickly encourages students to self-learn, empowering them to become more critical thinkers and independent learners.

Social media also provides an exciting and engaging platform for students, which develops a deeper engagement and interest in classes and world issues. Additionally, social media is seen as more engaging to students; it increases their interest and desire to learn, as well as their ef-

in

the

but I can not wait to get to the fun part. After many days of preparation and learning, I am just waiting to get the case.

When I walk into the next practice, I am full of excitement. Today is the day OCLRE, the Ohio Center for Law-Related Education, is sending us our case! It is time to start our research. Looking at Supreme Court cases, as well as the breakdown of what the case is, will get us prepared for our first invitational. I have been assigned the role of a witness.

As a witness, I must recite what I observed. I have been through this before; if I know my witness

Green

only helps you hone your green thumb, but also does wonderful things for the surrounding ecosystem! Dr. Nelson has been busy doing this herself by replacing her front lawn with plants native to Ohio. "Milkweed, coneflower, and Ohio spiderwort are easy to grow in their natural environment, they prevent erosion with their intricate roots systems, and they can support the nearby wildlife. For example, one of Dr. Nelson’s favorites, milkweed, is beneficial for pollinators and essential for the reproduction of Monarch Butterflies." If you want to take on a project this upcoming Earth Day, Dr. Nelson recommends searching online for native plants or going to Scioto Gardens Nursery. You don’t have to replace your whole lawn,

VS.

forts on projects and homework.

Although there are many benefits to social media, nothing comes without a cost.

According to the University of Nevada, Reno, 90% of teenagers claim that social media is one of the main sources of harassment and problems for teens. Because of this, many social media users can become subject to cyber bullying, depression, anxiety, and body dysmorphia. According to Ella Chomic, X, “Social media can easily become addicting.

It's not good when you are losing sleep over it or spending that time not studying or doing your homework.” Due to this, students may be reluctant to do certain assignments or become stressed or anxious more often.

Similarly, it may also stimulate

Life

5 CSG Voice

of

statement, the other attorneys will not be able to break me.

I am meeting with my directing attorney. It is time to write our script. We need to finish revising and have our script memorized for our first invitational. I am more nervous for this year than compared to last year because we only have one practice instead of multiple.

Practicing our scripts in front of teammates helps with my nerves.

Their feedback is extremely helpful to make sure we have the best script and have thought of every counter argument possible. After the invitational, it will be time to go to districts in

Thumb

either, for even a single native plant can make a positive difference in your local ecosystem.

With warm weather on the horizon and the new information you have received from the very best, take a chance to grow a plant. You might discover a talent and passion you never knew you had!

Lumpy on his final days.

Photo courtesy of Dr. D.

Students

a strong dependency on the internet, causing students to forget the foundation of the subjects they are learning. Social media does not only impact students' work and classes but also their social lives. Unfortunately, because social media’s information is often sensationalized and designed to keep you coming back for more, it can cause a disturbance among peers and a warped sense of morals. Students may become biased towards other groups of students based on their political or religious beliefs and may also express their views in an ill-mannered way, causing a toxic environment for their peers. Along with her positive outlook on social media, Casey also believes that “it is easy for social media to become an un-

a

healthy obsession that can lead to a detachment from reality.”

Fortunately, social media is not all black and white, and it allows for each individual student to utilize it in their own way. As Ella also says, “Social media has let me stay connected to the outside world and inform me about what is going on. It has also let me stay connected with friends that have left CSG or other friends.”

The potential damage of social media can be avoided as long as it is used in ways that are beneficial and engaging. So the next time you use social media, remember to steer away from toxic environments so that you are able to use social media in a fun, relaing way.

Mocktrillian

January. I can not wait! The sense of not knowing what team or school we’re going against brings more fun to the competition.

My alarm woke me up.

It is time to eat my breakfast, brush my teeth, and put on my blazer and turtleneck. I am beyond anxious with a side of excitement because today is the day of districts. Every practice has led up to this moment. My computer is charged, and I am ready.

I press the Zoom button, and we are live. I remember to look into the camera because eye contact is very important. I am ready to give my statement and am prepared for anything thrown my way!

Once the competition is over, a sense of relief floods me. I am happy it is over, and I am so proud of my team as well as myself. Now all that is left is to wait to see if we move on to the next round. I am nervous and more excited than ever!

As a result of our first competition, one of two CSG Mock Trial Teams will advance into the Regional round. If you see a Mocktrilian around, make sure to wish them luck before their next competition!

6 CSG Voice

Ms. Tremper’s Dissertation on Death

Angelina Kofman, XII

Up and comer History teacher Ms. Tremper has come to rival even Danielewicz in musings on life-- except, in this case, it’s death. A graduate student at Lehigh University, Ms. Tremper has been working on her PhD dissertation for about six years; its contents include five chapters (with an intro and conclusion), “runs about 250-270 pages,” and yes, it’s Chicago style (because “historians use Chicago style,” NOT MLA).

Her thesis, Ms. Tremper explains, “is about understandings of death throughout the eighteenth century,” and the change from a “predominantly religious interpretation of death [...] to a medical one by the late eighteenth century.”

She considers information such as population studies, obituaries, the formation of municipal, statewide, and national efforts at public health regulations, and addresses “what are good [and bad] ways to die.” Naturally, my first follow up question was what would be considered a “good/bad” way to die in 18th century America.

Tremper explained that people “wanted to be well prepared for death [and] wanted to be able to prepare [their] soul” so that they could “drift gently into the afterlife.” A “bad way to die was violently,” which in hindsight feels pretty obvious to me now. Tremper elaborated: “The release of death is a good thing to celebrate because you’re entering the spiritual realm away from bodily suffering.” This is where we get our modern style of funerals and obituaries that were meant to celebrate

Dear Ask-It, "What is one thing you wish you had done differently senior year?"

To answer this question, Silhouette turned to an anonymous senior. Here’s their answer: “If I’m being completely honest, there isn’t much I’d change about my senior year. Obviously, it’s not quite over yet, and I guess there still is time to make some sort of mistake that I can later wish I’d done differently, but so far there hasn’t been any stand-out moment that’s lingered in my head for so long. I think when you’re

someone’s life. However, Tremper explained that this idea “declines throughout the 18th century.”

Instead of welcoming death, many early Amercians moved toward wanting to prevent it. As Tremper puts it, “Maybe it’s okay to not want to die.”

People “put off death” through medical and human intervention.

One example was medical activists interested in “things that will promote health and longevity in society.” This included “street sweeping and general cleanliness” so there’d be “less threats to health.” Another fairly big concept associated with this is “physical health was a reflection of moral health.” Essentially, your outside reflected your inside. Not only that, but “good health was a sign of good government” as well.

Health regulations were considered to be borderline patriotic.

Of course, with researching death, odd things are bound to come up. For Tremper, it was the belief that if you were “heated and sweaty and drank cold water, that it could kill you.”

It appeared in actual causes of death Tremper had come across.

If you want to learn more about these topics, Tremper suggests the documentaries Influenza 1918 by PBS’ American Experience and Filthy Cities by BBC. You could also ask for a copy of her novel-sized dissertation for your English Independent Reading for some “light reading.”

And I leave you with one thing more: beware drinking cold water when you’re hot and sweaty, because who knows what might happen.

Best Bagel In Town Abigail Falk, XII

The bagel with cream cheese: a culinary masterpiece and personal favorite of mine may seem mundane to some. However, if made with the right ingredients and care, it has the ability to be a snack fit for royalty. With this knowledge in mind, I took on the righteous task of determining which fastfood place in town served the best bagel with cream cheese. I developed four different categories on which to judge the various bagels: price, presentation, taste of bagel, and last, but not least, texture.

The first bagel place I hit was Tim Hortons. As a former Horton’s employee, I pretty much knew what to expect here.

Price: $2.90, a sum I thought was pretty fair considering the quality of bagel and, actually, the cheapest of all bagels tried. 5/5.

Presentation: Perfectly even spreading of cream cheese. Definitely dancing on the border of too much cream cheese and for that, I’ll have to knock it down a few pegs. 3/5.

Taste: Pretty standard. I’d say just a few steps up from your average grocery store bagel. 4/5.

Texture: This is really where Tim Horton’s bagels shine in my mind. Perfectly crisp on the outside with a soft, slightly crunchy inside. 5/5.

Overall: 17/20 (B) Next on my list to try was Einstein Bro’s Bagels.

Price: $3.68. Aft e r Ti m H o r t o n s , t h e e x tra $0.78 did hurt a bit. 4/5.

Presentation: Not the best, I have to say. The cream cheese was not spread on as evenly as I would have liked; however, it wasn’t anything too serious. 4/5.

Taste: WOWZA, so so good. Evoked feelings of euphoria. So divine. Put a smile right on my face with its slight saltiness and creamy, chilled (a nice touch) cream cheese. 5/5.

Texture: Another great rating. Very nice texture with perfect toasting. Additionally, they used whipped cream cheese, which was a very nice addition. 5/5/

Pictured above is the disastrous Dunkin Donuts bagel. Photo courtesy of Abigail Falk, XII.

ASK-IT

going through high school there is such an anticipation to get to senior year, but it really is just like any other year of school, albeit with more freedom, and a couple senior traditions to figure out. Of course, there is also the college process and Senior May Program, but as long as you stay calm, and take each deadline as it comes, then everything will turn out fine. I think, for me personally, it’s not what I wish I had done differently senior year but what I’d done differently throughout all of high school. I wish I’d gotten

involved with more extracurricular activities, or spent more time truly focusing on things that mattered to me rather than things to pass the hours. I wish I’d cut myself a lot more slack throughout school, and not catastrophized each and every grade that wasn’t up to my own standards (a tip on that, by the way: just remember that there will always be another one, and one test score of one class of just one high school year is absolutely nothing in the grand scheme of your education). I also wish I’d spent more time getting to know

Overall: 18/20 (A-) While I wish I could tell you my bagel research was full of sunshine and delicious bagels, my next review tells a much different story. This is the story of Dunkin Donuts.

Price: $3.79. Now, normally I wouldn’t complain about $0.11, but the very subparness of this bagel made absolutely none of it worth it. 3/5.

Presentation: So bad. So very bad. Cream cheese ONLY on one side (very clearly made in a rush), however, strangely enough, I was the only car there… 2/5.

Taste: Not good. If Kroger’s bagels are on average a 3/5 for taste, these made them look like solid 6/5s. Embarrassing. 1/5.

Texture: There was a very clear attempt of masking the staleness with heavy toasting. Unsuccessful. 2/5.

Overall: 8/20 (F) In conclusion, trust your heart, eat bagels, and save $0.11 by going to Einstein’s instead of even contemplating a Dunkin bagel.

Above is the best bagel in town, the Einstein Bros bagel. Photo courtesy of Abigail Falk, XII.

the underclassmen, who are going to be the future leaders of the Upper School for those younger than them. I’m pretty sure the class of 2022 was the last class to have a full year of upper school before COVID hit, and I can only hope that the traditions we’ve continued can be carried on and adapted for years to come. I think, lastly, if I could change one thing about senior year, it would be that I am not quite ready for it to end. I know, I know, probably not the answer you were expecting, but it is true.

Now, in my last semester, I always

imagined I’d be ready to dash out the doors. In some ways I guess I am. I’m ready to go off to another place and meet other people, but I’m going to miss a lot about CSG. I’m going to miss the building, the classes, the incredible lunches and staff, and most of all, my teachers and friends. So much of my life up to this point has been shaped by this place and the people in it, and I’m going to be terribly sad to leave that behind. I guess though, all that really means is that you’ll see me back on campus at some point, just to say hi and reminisce.”

7Sports & Health Winter Sports Wrap-Up Tori Johnson, XII

As the winter sports seasons come to an end, only senior night is left. When it comes to senior night it’s normally the sophomores’ responsibility.

Planning a senior night includes collecting money, finding a date to have the game or meet, decorating, and writing speeches dedicated to their seniors. However, due to the low number of sophomores on the basketball team, the freshmen have to help

out as well. One of the freshmen on the team, Samantha Morris, said, “I was super excited when I found out I could help with senior night. It definitely was more difficult to write the speeches and gather memories…

I found that I was able to gather so many memories made in just 3 months of a season.”

Though it’s a time to celebrate the seniors and their accomplishments throughout the years, it’s also a time of

Take Your Mark! Photo courtesy of Tori Johnson, XII.

reflection. One of the basketball team captains, Lauren Sloan, XII, said she is going to miss the team. “It’s weird we’ve been doing this for four years.

I just can’t imagine life without it, I guess,” Lauren said. She also mentioned that it was the “closing of a chapter.” Thinking beyond the season, Lauren already has the tournament in her mind. “I think this season has been about changing our reputation and surprising people.

I want to continue to do that…”

One of the swim captains, Anja Fleege, XII, mentions, “It's just I’ve been doing it so long that I'm going to miss the routine…I’m going to miss jazzercise for dryland, team dinner, and brunches… just memories like that.”

Not only will the se-

Basketball Senior Night. Photo courtesy of @csgathletics.

niors miss the team, but the coaches will as well. Basketball Coach Rebecca Bailey said, “When the season is over, I will miss the people the most, getting to see everyone at practice…I’ll miss the four seniors the most, I can’t imagine CSG basketball without them.” Swim Coach Brian Botzman will also miss his athletes: “Every week…we are

together working to reach our full potential…it’s hard when you know it’ll be eight months before you get to work with them again.”

Just because the season ends doesn’t mean that you don’t get to talk to your seniors anymore. During the entire season, you’ve gotten closer and made memories together that will last a lifetime, even when they’re gone.

Springing Into the Spring Sport Season Kristina Ma, IX

As the weather warms up again, it means one thing for CSG athletes: spring sports!

Whether it’s Track and Field or Lacrosse, there’s no doubt that these athletes and coaches are ecstatic to get back to practice.

Coach Bunker, who has been coaching CSG’s Track and Field team for 12 years, is excited to have her team practicing again. She wants her athletes to “go outside their comfort zone” and “find the joy of being together.” Bunker also believes that Track is “one of the purest sports” because it’s an individual sport. “Track is a huge commitment and takes lots of strength to be successful,” Bunker said.

Kayden Edwards, XII,

is excited to wrap up her final Track and Field season. It will be a “bittersweet ending” for her.

She has a lot of memories with the team, but she’s excited to see what the team will do this year.

Kayden wants to have closer relationships with her teammates, and she wants to “give it her all and make it to State finals.”

Jameson Pillifant, X, is looking forward to the upcoming season. In order to prepare for this year, she’s been doing the pre-season workouts, as well as her own workouts at home. Jameson wants to “have a better relationship with [her] teammates” and make it back to states. Wish her and the entire track team good luck!

Meanwhile, on the up-

per fields of Kirk Campus, the Lacrosse team has been practicing non-stop with their new head coach, Coach Rocheleau.

She has been coaching for about 20 years at numerous colleges: Ohio Wesleyan, Wooster, and Ohio Northern University. She felt so welcomed by the CSG community. “The community is so tight, and everyone has been overwhelmingly kind,” she said. Coach Rocheleau wants to impact the girls by changing the mindset they have about Lacrosse. Rocheleau believes “success isn’t about wins or losses — it’s about the overall experience.”

The CSG community is so glad to have Coach Rochealeau here!

Clara Carney, IX, is excited to meet Coach Roche-

leau and start her high school career. As a triathlete, Clara believes that high school is more competitive than middle school.

She’s “excited to get better and play at a new competitive level.”

Cynthia Alexander, XII, is thrilled to finish her high school lacrosse career by meeting her new teammates and bonding with them. While Covid-19 will restrict how close the team can get, Cynthia hopes that the team will connect and improve from previous years, as “a little progress is a step in the right direction.” Can’t wait for the lacrosse team to start playing!

We hope to see fellow Unicorns supporting our Track and Lacrosse teams during their seasons!

Throwback to our Track and Field Team (above) and Lacrosse Team (below) from last year! Photos courtesy of @csgathletics

Verbatim Mr. Niemi: "Friends will let you down, family will let you down, but you know what will never let you down? The quadratic formula."

Aspen Steere, IX: “If life was a game of Among Us, I’d be winning right now.”

Dr. Sweeney: "I used to date a Pokemon character."

Ciara Latham, XI: *Doing physics lab* “You can just press pause to make it stop accelerating.”

Finley Moffett, XI: “You can’t hit the pause button in real life.”

Reactions to the Room Smelling Like Fire: Mr. Hartshorne: "You guys are going to live a few minutes longer than the people in the commons."

Madi Kim, X: "I'm gonna die doing math homework..."

Isabella Luckage, XI: "If the universe decides it's my time, then it's my time!"

8 Sports & Health Stepping In On The MLK Program Allie Salamon, X CSG has many traditions, one of the most prominent ones being the Martin Luther King Jr. Program. This assembly is dedicated to honoring the work and life of Dr. King. This year’s program looked a little different than most.

The BAACC, or Beauty of African American Culture Club, led the program and added a few additions. One of the most notable additions was a student-led step team who performed their own choreographed dance.

Step dancing is a percussive form of dance. Originating in predominantly African American dance groups in colleges, it is now performed by competitive and recreational dance groups of all ages.

Step focuses on the sounds, rhythms, and beats produced by your body.

Ciara Latham, XI, Vice President of the BAACC, was one of the choreographers as well as

a performer. Ciara asked Rhian Wallace, XI, to help choreograph the dance. They mentioned that they both “looked at a lot of videos for inspiration.” After watching videos, Ciara and Rhian put together the initial dance the team would perform. Student volunteers would rehearse during fourth period. Throughout the first weeks of practice, “[they] were constantly changing [the choreography] over the two months of practice.”

The overall performance made the crowd ecstatic. People were cheering on the step team as they danced to a remix of Childish Gambino’s song “This Is America.”

The rhythms and the movements of the team wowed the audience.

The CSG Step Team is hopeful to do more performances for the school in the future and upcoming MLK Programs and the Soul Food Feast. Stay tuned for more step team performances!

An Inside Scoop With Eunice Madi Kim, X

MLK Program. Courtesy of CSG Instagram.

CLICK BELOW to see the Step Team in action!

Taken directly at the Martin Luther King Jr. Program

You’ve heard her name, you’ve felt her presence, you know who she is; we all do. There always seems to be a magnetism when she enters the room, drawing eyes from the crowd. We all shout her name, cheering her on. As CSG’s local celebrity, Eunice the Unicorn spends her days making appearances at school events and sports games.

She lifts everyone’s spirits up with her signature red and gold pom poms while flashing dazzling smiles at the adoring crowd. But can we, as her fans, get to know the unicorn behind it all? Silhouette sat down with Eunice to get the inside scoop.

We asked Eunice the burning question: how can she stay so positive in the midst of it all? Her response was, “Honestly, I don't!

And that’s okay. Although my persona is to essentially be the school spirit of CSG, I want my fans, young and old, to know that it’s okay to not be perfectly happy all the time.” So how does Eunice cope with stress and anxiety? She stated, “Relying

on my loved ones, as well as taking time for myself to unwind, really helps when I get overwhelmed.

Sometimes I like to brush my mane and tail, detangle my pom poms, or file my horn.” One thing she would like to say to the students at CSG is that “when life is just going too fast, it’s important that we all take a step back, practice some self care, whatever that looks like for you, and then continue. Your own health, both physical and mental, is of utmost importance, so don’t forget that.”

Unfortunately, Eunice would not answer any questions about her dating life and celebrity crushes. But you heard it here, folks: as Eunice prioritizes her health and safety, we should do the same.

Although it feels an eternity away, the end of the year is looming with AP tests, finals, and honestly, just the stress of schoolwork. Through these next few months, remember to slow down if life is moving too fast. Take time for yourself and reach out to teachers, friends, or family for help. And it never hurts to wave a pom pom or two!

The Step Team's amazing performance! Courtesy of CSG Instagram.

Find Your Mindfulness Rose McLarty, IX Just breathe. Way easier said than done. For some people, stopping and noticing your breathing can make all the difference in an overwhelming day. For others “sitting with your thoughts” can be a really uncomfortable process. Meditation and all things mindfulness is an acquired taste, and some people do not find peace in this practice. This was shown in our CSG community during the Upper School’s morning meeting when Dr. Graham asked everyone to breathe for a minute or two: some thought it was really awkward while others felt rejuvenated.

I talked to Dr. Graham and he shared how important incorporating mindfulness into the

CSG community is to him.“ I think it’s never been harder to be a high school student than it is right now; I think the pressure and the stressors placed on students [...] is significant.” Dr. Graham emphasizes the power meditation has to connect people back to the present moment: “I see students struggling to stay in the moment; it's so easy for all of us to just grab our phones and emotionally disappear.” He describes meditation as “an open invitation to be in the present moment, without trying to change it.” Dr. Graham was introduced to meditation seven years ago and is very interested in all that meditation has to offer.

When asked about students and faculty who are not as receptive to mindfulness as he is, Dr.

Graham shared that mindfulness can be found in a variety of ways.

Growing up as an athlete, he believes that any kind of physical movement can be a form of mindfulness. Dr. Graham has found that reading and listening to music are also effective alternatives to meditation. For those students who enjoy the practice of mindfulness, Dr. Graham recommends you read Wherever You Go There You Are by Jon Kabat- Zinn.

The book shares lots of meditation techniques, some of which Dr. Graham finds the practices we do in morning meetings. Whether it's a walk or a big deep breath, whatever way you choose to practice, make sure you take care of yourself often.

Eunice sighted with her iconic pom poms! Photo courtesy of Ruthie Saar, XII.

Eunice showing us how it's done.

Photo courtesy of Ruthie Saar, XII.

The most photogenic unicorn around.

Photo courtesy of Ruthie Saar, XII.

9 Life & Arts Dr. D's Discovery The Sense that of Philosophy Goes into Nunsense Angelina Kofman, XII

Alysa Li, X What do you do when most of the nuns in your convent suddenly die from botulism poisoning and you don’t have enough money to bury all of them? Make money by starting a greeting card company, of course! But what do you do when a nun uses most of the money you just got to buy a TV? Put all the nuns you didn’t get to bury in the freezer and start a talent show to raise even more money! Such is the plot of CSG’s Upper School’s spring musical, Nunsense.

All musicals require planning and time, so I interviewed Mrs. Bishara, Head of the Theater Department, about the preparations that went into this musical. For this particular show, Mrs. Bishara says that

there are a lot of people they’re working with, such as “a music director to teach the cast members the parts of the songs, a professional lighting designer, and a TD to teach the set crew how to build.” Mrs. Bishara also has two CSG students helping with dramaturgy. “They’re researching Catholicism and nuns and traditions for us, and they’re going to be presenting that to the cast for them to use as they like.”

I asked Mrs. Bishara to describe to me her thought process when choreographing the dance numbers. She says, “I close my eyes, listen to the music over and over and over again, and eventually, little dancers will appear in my head and do it for me!” After that, she writes everything down and adjusts the choreography accordingly. If it’s

too hard, she’ll ease it down. If it’s too easy, she’ll make it a little harder. If some movements come out looking too awkward, she’ll take them out and replace them with better ones. With years of experience in acting and dancing behind her, this process comes naturally to Mrs. Bishara, even if dancers showing up in her head does sound a little crazy.

Mrs. Bishara, the cast and crew members, and other people working on this musical worked so hard to make this musical be the best it could be. A lot of work went into memorizing lines, learning and making choreography, building the set, finding props and costumes, and managing light and sound, but they did it all anyway, all for the purpose of making Nunsense a success.

Some cast members of Nunsense learning a tap dance number. How fan-TAP-stic! Photo courtesy of Mrs. Bishara.

We all know Upper School Latin teacher Dr. Danielewicz-- or if you don’t, visualize perfectly perm-like curls (the subject of a previous Silhouette feature). And if that doesn’t ring a bell, it’s the guy who makes all the Mock Trial announcements and whose catchphrase is “That’s allowed.” Yep, yeah, that guy. Although Dr. D is our resident Latin teacher, he also usually teaches Philosophy, which aligns with one of his numerous degrees.

Dr. D’s interest in philosophy began because he “had a lot of questions about life and [he] wasn’t satisfied with the answers [he] encountered.”

Very deep. Naturally, I asked if he found those answers. In true philosophical style he replied, “Short answer: I found different questions.” He continued, “If the answer to a question is simply yes or no, it’s probably not that interesting of a question.” Note discipulae, if you have a question in class, be evasive for awesome points.

As a fan of existential questions, he immediately responded yes when I asked if he loves to play devil's advocate.

No surprise there. He defended this by saying, “It helps to be critical,” which I’m sure all our English teachers applaud. Philosophy, he explains, fills one with “doubt and uncertainty” and “you grow to love that,” which includes seeing all the different sides. Ironically, when I asked if he considered himself

indecisive due to this, he-- with no hesitation-- responded “yes.”

One of his most pondered questions is how much control we have over our own lives; not quite free will, but more like perception of events.

Dr. D describes this as the kind of “soundtrack we play in the background.” Is the world out to get us, or is there a laugh track and we take things in stride? Or as Dr. D puts it, “Is it a comedy or a tragedy?” He clarifies that people are perfectly “justified in feeling all kinds of ways, but is it going to help them [...] or be productive?” Honestly, that floored me. I’m not kidding when I say I started to reevaluate the way I handle situations, and this slight change in mindset helped me “go with the flow” more easily. Basically, Dr. D offers some pretty good free therapy--unintentionally even.

When it comes to Dr. D’s soundtrack, he hopes that even though he “might swear or shake [his] fist at the sky [and] be real mad, [...] if you zoom out you have to kinda admit [the situation] could be funny.” On a serious note, his actual real life soundtrack-- like music listening--is made up of Mitski and Phoebe Bridgers. No, I’m not even kidding, he’s one of us. Freaky right?

When you find yourself feeling down, track down accidental therapist Danielewicz to remind you to take a breath and “consider what soundtrack you are choosing for yourself.” Or sign up for his Philosophy class next year!

Dr. Krichbaum's Plans to Redesign Senior May Program Gabrielle Yuan, XI Although Dr. Emily Krichbaum officially began her position as Director of Center for Girls' and Young Women's Leadership less than a year ago, she’s already taken her tasks for re-envisioning May Program by storm. When I entered her office, in addition to her visually pleasing color-coded bookshelf and cozy room temperature, I immediately noticed the array of multi-colored post-it notes stuck to her computer. Each listed a different task that she soon planned to tackle. The information varied from leadership toolkits for the Lower School to the new initiatives for May Program.

“In the previous years, Senior May Program plans often

times developed from who the individual knew. That’s why I’m dedicating a portion of my new role to establishing relationships for the seniors,” Dr. K began.

“I want to create a path for students to be better positioned for success with a greater sense of direction.” She’s referring to the three weeks that seniors typically spend pursuing a field of study of their choosing. In the past, students may have ended up interning with a family friend or shadowing people at CSG. So now, Dr. K is hoping to create greater opportunities, and she’s beginning to redesign a new experience that can be more intentional for not only the seniors but also for the underclassmen through collaboration and leadership development.

Dr. K is working on creating unique leadership tracks for students in each grade, starting with Form IX. “In the spring of 2023, all form IX through XI students will go through a week of leadership training, call it ‘bootcamp,’ and truly find their voice.

They’ll begin to find the qualities that differentiate [students] from each other,” she excitedly announces. In this leadershiptraining, students will take personality tests, do indoor rock climbing, and meet leading women in various fields of industry. In the Spring of 2024, Form X students will be able to decide between the four tracks available to them in subjects of the Arts, STEM, Business & Entrepreneurship, and Politics & Advocacy.

“I’m creating a pro-

gram that I would want to be a part of when I was a teenager,” Dr. K says. “I didn’t feel comfortable in my own skin and didn’t put myself in the position to succeed as this May Program does.” She sees the potential that every single student has, and she hopes to provide them with a way to reach it through many opportunities, mentorships, and specific curriculum in the classroom that focuses primarily on leadership development.

Dr. K’s dream of empowering CSG students expands past the school and into the Greater Columbus area. She’d like to create a Young Women’s Summit at CSG and hear delegates from the surrounding schools talk about current issues teenagers are facing. Though

these goals seem lofty now, with Dr. K’s determination and neverending enthusiasm to create a better future for her students, she’s sure to help develop an outstanding program.

Dr. K in her new office! Photo courtesy of Maddy Wood, X.

Life & Arts

10

Falling in Love with the Choir Muriel Wallace, X “Love, love, love,” sang the Beatles in one of their wellknown songs, “All You Need Is Love.” Unfortunately, with Paul McCartney and Ringo Starr being the only members of the rock band still alive, our school can’t exactly organize a reunion of the Fab Four in this day and age. However, we do have our very own choir who performed similar songs about romance on February 12th, two days before Valentine’s Day. With jazz hits ranging from the 70s to all the way back in the 20s, it was an event that could be enjoyed by all generations.

Mrs. Sugerik, CSG’s new choir director, went above and beyond planning the Cabaret Theatre.

She intended for it to be a small and intimate performance with a “cozy, classy little atmosphere.” It was held in the Unicorn Theatre, and both families and friends were

encouraged to come and enjoy the evening. “The choir [and Grace Notes] will [each] be singing a jazz standard—absolutely gorgeous,” Mrs. Sugerik gushed in an interview before the event. There will also be thirteen soloists flaunting their skills as they sing hand-selected songs that they enjoy. “Some have meaning to them,” mentioned Mrs. Sugerik as she looked over the list of songs. “Like [...] a song that played at their parents' wedding.”

One of the soloists who sang that evening was Max Lang, XII. They performed “I Feel The Earth Move” by Carole King. “It’s just a song that I’ve been listening to and have loved for a very long time,” Max explained before the show. “As an artist and a songwriter, I think [King’s] absolutely amazing!” Though it may sound simple to just walk out and sing a solo, Max revealed that they put in a lot of hard work by practicing

often to prepare for the night. They spent several 4th periods meeting with Mrs. Sugerik about the song.

Max explained, “We’ve both been talking about how I can put my own twist on it [to make it] just as much me as it is Carole King.”

But the Cabaret Theatre wasn't only to allow parents and grandparents to revisit the songs of their past. Both Mrs. Sugerik and Max hope that this will become an annual tradition that will grow and continue throughout the years. As this is their last year at CSG, Max was especially excited to be a part of the very first year of this event.

Those who weren’t able to come this year should most definitely consider coming to next year’s event. As the themes change, people will be able to expand their tastes while enjoying pieces sung by their friends and family, and these singers are sure to take your breath away once again.

Ava Kessler performing "The Stranger."

Casey Sussman performing "Killing Me Softly." All photo courtesy of Dr. Hattaway.

Grace Notes performing "Unforgettable."

Senior Feature: Eva Weiland Gabrielle Yuan, XI Fourteen years ago, Eva Weiland, XII, picked up her first violin. At the age of four, the violin was half as tall as her, the bow stretched out on her arm as she played the long legato notes on the strings. At the time, Eva was upset that she had to spend her time playing the violin, rather than playing outside or baking some cookies. However, she’s now glad that her mother set a timer for 45 minutes a day, because today, Eva’s found her passion for orchestral music and loses track of time when she practices for hours every day.

Eva has an immense amount of talent when it comes to the violin and she continues to involve herself in other orchestral activities. Currently, she’s involved in music programs outside of school, such as Columbus Symphony Youth Orchestra (CSYO), Chambers Music, and more. The memories that she’s created there and the friends that it has brought her are some of the reasons why she’s thankful for the violin. She explains, “Being able to play with other people and forming that deep bond with them through music is something I’m extremely thankful for.”

Besides being involved in music outside of school, Eva is also a leader in the CSG ensemble, where

she is concertmaster. Her favorite memories at school include times from her sophomore year, where the Select Strings played “American Quartet,” composed by Dvořák, and were able to woodshed together.

Along with the group, one of the people that she’ll miss the most from CSG is Ms. Becker: “Ms. Becker has taught me since Middle School, and the connection that I’ve had with her through our communication with music is something I’ll never forget. She’s always made me feel welcomed into the music community and shown me how music can really impact someone’s life.”

Eva plans to continue playing at Dartmouth College, where she hopes to join the school orchestra. As she finishes her last semester here at CSG, Eva wishes to share a message to young aspiring musicians like she once was: “Whether it’s music or a hobby that you find yourself interested in, go for it. Let yourself embrace the feeling of enjoyment.

And if you’re feeling frustrated or stuck with something you’ve been familiar with your whole life, take a step back. Think about how you’re approaching it and what you can do to find a new perspective.” Eva’s musical presence will be heavily missed at CSG, where her melodic playing will forever flow through the hallways.

Counseling the Counselor: Astrology with Ms. Harrison Della Jones, X

Eva Weiland, XII, posing with her violin.

Photo courtesy of Eva Weiland.

Little Eva happily playing her violin! Photo courtesy of Eva Weiland.

Have you ever thought that your birthday was just the events and challenges in your life. That's at least what Ms. Harrison, our Middle and Upper School guidance counselor who has been interested in astrology since high school, will tell you.

Part of Ms. Harrison’s love for this topic comes from what it tells her about both herself and the people that surround her. “Astrology can show you how you approach various areas of your life, [and] it’s a fun way to explore parts of your personality,” she states. It’s a great way to get in touch with your inner self! As far as connecting with other people’s inner selves, astrology can help guide your relationships in life. “It can give you a sense of who you may be most compatible with based on personality traits.” Ms. Harrison states. “[Also], it can help you predict how a particular person may respond to life events.” Astrology might be the right thing to get invested in if you want to avoid drama!

Ms. Harrison’s “big three signs” are a Libra sun, Sagittarius moon, and Scorpio ascendent, which represent her core identity, her inner self, and her social personality.

Although there are about eleven other sun signs to choose from, Ms. Harrison would not want to change her sign if given the chance: “[Since]

my Sun [is] in Libra, I am fundamentally oriented towards fairness and justice.” That’s pretty fitting for a school counselor!

A common misconception about astrology is that it can predict the future. While we really can’t determine whether this is actually true or not, Ms. Harrison doesn’t fully buy it. Her response perfectly matches her role as a school counselor: “You have to have a [strong] work ethic to reach your goals; the planets can’t do that for you.” However, she will sometimes turn to the planets to help her interpret events in her life: “If there are exciting, weird or chaotic moments happening I will look at my horoscope to see what’s in the air on my chart -- it usually matches what is happening in the moment!”

Maybe astrology can’t tell you what will happen in your life, but it can potentially help you understand things to achieve your future goals.

If the stars, moons, and planets that light up the night sky interest you, check out astrology!

You can even make the treacherous journey through the tech lab to reach Ms. Harrison’s office if you want someone to talk astrology with.

Back Page 11 Which CSG Statue Are You? Madi Kim, X

Spring Break: What's the Plan?

Frances Leftkowitz-Pizzuti, XI is going to tour colleges and take a trip to Florida.

Mr. Baker's going to two dance concerts and getting his Ohio driver's license! All photos courtesy of Ciara Latham, XI.

Bethany Spangler, X is going to Naples, Florida to visit her cousins.

Cammie Kleinman, XI is going to the "Greatest birding festival in Israel."