Vol. LXXXVI, No. 4
DEERFIELD ACADEMY, DEERFIELD, MA 01342
After Irene:
October 11, 2011
Tomorrow Night’s Academy Event Showcases United States Poet Laureate W. S. Merwin Looking at the Reconstruction By NINA SHEVZOVZEBRUN Staff Writer
Ben Bolotin On the days when it isn’t raining, members of the Grounds Crew lay new sod on the fields.
On the Playing Fields...
By NOLAN BISHOP Staff Writer
Manager of Grounds & Infrastructure Construction Brett Gewanter explained, Tropical Storm Irene’s heavy “Before we could even begin to rainfall caused several of the think about the grass, we had ten dams along the Deerfield to remove all the silt. After River to overflow. The water that, it was a long process of level rose from five to 24 feet in taking out the irrigation system less than one hour, leaving silt and re-grading the field using and river sand all over the lower our own equipment as well as level fields and tennis courts. the help of outside contractors. “This is my thirtieth We then had to put back the year working here,” said irrigation before beginning the Groundsperson Jeff Gonyer. long process of laying sod.” Mr. Gewanter and the “I’ve seen the river flood before, but never like this.” Grounds Department have
Around Town...
By KRISTY HONG
Editorial Associate
Floodwater filled four cellars in the museum houses of Historic Deerfield, and due to severe flooding of its basement, ground floor and corridors, the Deerfield Inn will remain closed until spring. “We have received hundreds of emails from people who have stayed with us in the past expressing concern and offering their help,” said Innkeeper Karl Sabo. “It’s absolutely overwhelming.” Aside from a set of furnaces and boilers, the Historic
Deerfield collections remain unscathed. However, Peerless Insurance, the flood insurance company, proposed settlements covering a portion of at least $1.5 million in damage repair and business interruption costs. The Inn, which is accepting reservations for post-June, will reopen with additional rooms, an upgraded kitchen, more tavern and less dining space, and a multi-use terrace café. Among other casualties, the flood wiped out the Inn’s ATM. A new machine will be installed near the side entrance of the Inn in less than two weeks.
replaced the sod on the six fields closest to the gym. “If we finish the sodding process in the next few weeks, then the fields ought to be ready by Saturday, October 22. This is all weather dependent, though,” said Mr. Gewanter. Mr. Gonyer is responsible for maintenance of the sprinkler system. It took him years to finetune the hundreds of sprinklers on the lower level fields. Now he will have to start over. “It will definitely be a while before things get back to normal down here at Grounds,” said Mr. Gonyer.
In the Coffers... By NICKY RAULT Staff Writer
Out of students’ sight, new Director of Finances Keith Finan is working with Director of Facilities Chuck Williams to analyze the destruction caused by Irene and calculate its cost. “At this point, I can only give an estimate of between $1 million and $1.25 million as the cost to recover from the flood,” said Mr. Finan. Athletic Director Chip Davis stated, “We’ll spend over $100,000 on bleacher and scoreboard replacement alone.” than half of their corn crop The south fields and the before Irene hit, their agricultural tennis courts suffered the most insurance policy will not cover damage. The tennis courts were damages, nor will it pay the $50,000 heavily flooded but not badly required to replace the irrigation damaged. “Last week when structure that the storm washed I spoke with [Building and downstream and tore apart. Grounds Director] Mr. Williams, The Savage family farm faces we were not expecting to find similar losses in money as did serious damage to the courts the Melnik family’s Bar-Way surfaces,” said Mr. Finan. The Farm dairy cattle grazing area. major challenge is to get the silt “Although this is the worst and debris off of the surface. flooding I’ve ever seen, and “We are focused on getting the even the worst my father has fields and courts back into shape seen, we will rally from it,” while keeping a careful eye on said Mr. Williams. “But it will the costs of each component and certainly take money and time.” overall spending,” said Mr. Finan.
Down on the Farm...
By NOLAN BISHOP and KRISTY HONG
Staff Writer and Editorial Associate
Tropical Storm Irene’s waters demolished several surrounding farms, leaving fields laden with silt and the crops deemed unfit for sale. North of campus, the Williams Farm lost 60 acres of sweet corn and most of their pumpkin and squash crops, amounting to $200,000 in losses according to Chip Williams. Unfortunately, because the Williams family harvested more
p. 4 Post 9/11 Superheroes
p. 5 Meet the Bagpiper
in the Rare Book & Manuscript Library of the University of Illinois at Champaign-Urbana. Mr. Merwin’s work focuses on W. S. Merwin, United States the natural world and its beauty. Poet Laureate, arrives on campus He has been honored with many tomorrow morning to begin a two- awards and is a two-time winner day visit with students and faculty. of the Pulitzer Prize for poetry. Mr. Merwin lived in France and Tomorrow night’s Academy Event will showcase Mr. Merwin London (where he befriended reading his poetry, with a book Sylvia Plath) before moving to signing to follow. He will speak Maui, Hawaii in 1976, where to students in the Black Box he helped replant previously tropical forests. Theater during the first class destroyed “Those life experiences period on Thursday morning. In anticipation of his visit, are embodied in his poetry,” all students and faculty received said Marly Morgus ’12. “I think that it will be a copy of The Rain in the Trees, a collection of his mid-career valuable for students to be able poetry published in 1988. to listen to Merwin and learn English teachers agreed to spend from his appreciation for the class time discussing his poetry. natural world,” said Spanish English Department Chair teacher Cheri Karbon. “It Mark Ott looked to bring to would remind students to pause campus someone who would and appreciate the natural have an impact on students and beauty of the valley, more than create conversation. “[Merwin] we do on an everyday basis.” “We’re able to make something is pushing the boundaries of his visit...because...we’re language to challenge the ways we of understand the world,” he said. reading and talking together,” Zoe Perot ’12, while noting said English teacher Heather the “remarkable elegance” of Mr. Liske. “In a way, we’re tuning our Merwin’s work, also mentioned ear to a sound we’ve never heard.” his unique ability to “form clear images with his words that really stick with the reader.” After graduating from Princeton in 1948, Mr. Merwin moved to Majorca where he co-wrote a play and tutored. Publishing his first book in 1952, Mr. Merwin continued on to write 28 collections of poetry, eight works of prose, and three plays. He also edited 2 books and has translated 25 other works. poetsonline.blogspot.com A collection of 5,500 archival W.S. Merwin items and 450 books is stored
Widmer Receives Heritage Award
By MADDIE LANE Staff Writer
it is truly inspiring. With the support of King Abdullah, he crafted King’s Academy from the Former headmaster Eric drawing board and he worked Widmer ’57 received the to impart much of what we Deerfield Heritage Award cherish here at Deerfield on the today in school meeting. new school and its students.” Before returning to Deerfield Gavin Fuller ’12, who also as its first alumnus to serve as participated in the selection, headmaster, Mr. Widmer studied pushed for Mr. Widmer history at Williams College because “the purpose of the and Far Eastern Languages at Heritage Award is to recognize Harvard and then spent a year in an individual who has been Taiwan on a Fulbright Fellowship. ‘worthy of his or her heritage.’ For 25 years, he served Brown When reading biographies of University in various capacities several nominees, it was very first as a professor and then as clear to me that Mr. Widmer, an administrator, including dean among all the other nominees, of admissions. He mastered has proven to be ‘worthy.’” many languages including Hadley Newton ’12, the Russian, Chinese, and French. final student member of the Charles Jones ’12, a student selection committee, also found member of the selection the choice of Mr. Widmer to committee, elaborated on be obvious. “His legacy is one Mr. Widmer’s appeal and of compassion, community, accomplishments. “Mr. Widmer and education. As a headmaster is a Deerfield icon. His experience at home and abroad, he has led in Jordan is not only intriguing, with confidence and poise.”
p. 8 New Talent on Girls’ Varsity Soccer
2 The Deerfield Scroll
OPINION/EDITORIAL
October 11, 2011
CENSORSHIP VOL. LXXXVI, NO. 4
OCTOBER 11, 2011
Editor-in-Chief ANNA GONZALES Front Page SARAH WOOLF
Graphics DANIEL HAN
Opinion/Editorial ELIZABETH WHITTON
Online JAKE BARNWELL MARLY MORGUS
Arts & Entertainment HADLEY NEWTON Features DANIELLE DALTON Sports CLAIRE HUTCHINS Photography BEN BOLOTIN
Video KEVIN TANG Business Manager SIDNEY HULBURD Editorial Associates SAMMY HIRSHLAND KRISTY HONG CASEY BUTLER JOHN LEE
Advisors SUZANNE HANNAY & JOHN PALMER
The Deerfield Scroll, established in 1925, is the official student newspaper of Deerfield Academy. The Scroll encourages informed discussion of pertinent issues that concern the Academy and the world. Signed letters to the editor that express legitimate opinions are welcomed. We hold the right to edit for brevity. The Scroll is published eight times yearly. Advertising rates provided upon request.
The Scroll is not censored in any way, shape, or form. Neither Dr. Curtis nor any other member of the administration reads any of the articles before publication, nor are they informed of the topic or content of any of these articles—unless they are quoted, in which case they are sent only their quotes to confirm accuracy. The faculty advisors to the paper have no input as to the direction or creation of any of the group editorials. These group editorials are written by the entire editorial board, which consists of the editor-in-chief, all of the page editors, the online editors, the photo editor, the graphics editor, and the editorial associates. While we are financed by the school, the administration does not exert any direct control over the articles or opinions we publish. As stated in our masthead, The Scroll encourages informed discussion of issues concerning the Academy and the world. I, along with the editorial board, believe that any newspaper has a duty to tell the truth and publish the news along with contributors’ opinions in an accurate and objective format. One responder responding to the September 9 editorial “Seniority as More Than a Hierarchy” told The Scroll that it should publish student opinions. We do. We would all love to receive more. The problem is that there are hardly any student opinions to publish—and those with opinions are frequently too afraid of their classmates to articulate them in a public forum. When we hear anyone complaining about changes in school policy or taking issue with traditions, the Opinion/Editorial editor Elizabeth Whitton ’12 and I immediately solicit articles for the paper. Unfortunately, we are usually rejected, out of the fear, laziness, or apathy that surfaces once the verbal complaining is over. Several members of the class of 2012 argued eloquently and extensively over changes to housing on our class Facebook page, but when asked to write pieces for the paper articulating their viewpoints, refused. This issue of The Scroll, and indeed the entire school, would be vastly improved with critical input of students. This is not a critical generalization of the student body. This is a challenge to students to put aside for a minute the attitude of silence and passivity fostered by an entrenched sports culture of loving Deerfield (an integral, wonderful part of our education) without questioning anything. If we actually love Deerfield, we have a duty to improve it for future generations of students and to leave the school better than it was when we found it. We will attempt to put action behind the grand rhetoric of our Mission Statement and imbue our cherished traditions with sincere meaning. I urge students, teachers, and alumni to recognize the strength in their collective action and opinion, as the student body did so successfully with its dress code petition. We are grateful for our freedom to publish student opinions. Please help us use it!
Opinion articles with contributors’ names attached represent the views of the respective writers. Opinion articles without names represent the consensus views of the editorial staff.
-Anna Gonzales Editor-in-Chief
Thank You, Physical Plant In light of recent events, it is even more necessary to thank the fabulous members of our physical plant. Since Irene blew through the Northeast, these amazing men and women have been working around the clock to make sure that all features of our campus are restored to their usual beauty. Everyone felt both the long- and short-term impact of the storm, but no one more than these dedicated members of the community. From clearing debris to laying sod, they have made huge improvements on the campus that was partially underwater only a few weeks ago. Our physical plant also continues to work through numerous setbacks attempting to get our playing fields in working order. Student, please understand and appreciate the amount of work that it takes for this small group to nurse our beloved campus back to health. Next time you see any of the dedicated members of the physical plant, make sure to stop and thank them for all of the work that they are doing.
Unwritten Rules We are often reminded that Deerfield is a community built upon respect and tradition. This year, however, there has been a lack of respect for certain traditions that are as much a part of Deerfield as the buildings, the students, the staff and the faculty. A reminder of these “unwritten” traditions seems necessary. One unwritten rule is lovingly referred to by returners as “you kill it, you fill it,” meaning if you take the last of the water or food at a sitdown meal, it is your duty to refill it for the rest of the table. It is also expected that you know your class cheer and do it along with the rest of your class at school meeting. This is an opportunity to show class pride. You should cheer enthusiastically every time, not just stand silently until you are able to sit down again. The same applies when singing school songs. Other rules of respect surround senior privileges. When seniors are dismissed from the auditorium, all underclassmen, including sophomores and first waiters, should remain in their seats until every senior has left the room. Many underclassmen have also been seen walking on senior grass this year. Senior grass is all of the grass in front of the Main School Building, and only seniors are allowed to walk on it. The seal on the floor in the trophy room symbolizes Deerfield values. We do not walk on it. Encourage visitors to respect this rule and to step around the seal. These traditions are as much a part of Deerfield life as our written rules, so this year, let’s work our hardest to be respectful of them and keep the traditions alive.
We wish to extend our deepest sympathy to
Andrew Slade and to his family on the death of his father
Edward J. Slade, Jr. 1957—2011
Jeff Brown Morning break time caught a few staff members at ease. Front: Chris Brown, Tom Stone, Jamie Dion. Back: Jason Erali, Gary Grybko, Ed Sabelawski, Mike Woodard, Craig LeTourneau.
Letter to the Editor Re: “Seniority as More Than a Hierarchy” September 9, 2011 The negative responses “Seniority as More Than a Hierarchy” received from the class of 2011, amongst those of other extended community members, are due to the gross generalizing of the past senior class as well as a general tone of condescension in the end of the article. Accusing the class “collectively” of having a few lapses of good judgment neglects the involvement of other classes in drinking incidents over Long Fall Weekend in New York City and during the French trip to Quebec. The selection and emphasis of the class of 2011’s involvement in these cases is merely to make a point to the administration that the class of 2012 is opting to be better and therefore shouldn’t have to deal with the consequences of the newest alumni’s choices. I can sympathize with the editorial board’s opinion and I understand from where they make their case. Last year the administration made unprecedented decisions that
many felt were too intrusive and out of the jurisdiction of the deans. However, regardless of either side’s opinion, to belittle the “individual accomplishments” of the class of 2011 by juxtaposing them with what is perceived as their greatest downfall is uncalled for. Comments of “sorry for partying” and hash-tagged tweets of “#sorryimnotsorry” from members of the class of 2011 are equally uncalled for but do lend a bit of insight into the class’s mentality. The class of 2011 is proud of their achievements made on and off campus in their years at Deerfield. We made mistakes and bonded over them on our way. I never saw as many happy faces as the ones outside of Mr. Emerson’s office to admit to drinking over Long Fall, a time of high pressure with college applications. Seniors were apprehensive about their impending punishment, but were also proud of being utterly honest and amongst their friends and classmates offering and getting support. I personally cherish my attendance at the senior party in Elmore, Vermont. The memories I made there will stick with me more than many made in class, rehearsals, and meetings while at Deerfield. I’m not advocating for the
drinking culture that exists in prep schools and public high schools alike, but it is important to think about what students are going to actually learn when chastised for their actions. Make the punishment severe enough and students will be even more dangerous and sneaky about drinking. Regardless of where it occurs, drinking more in shorter periods of time results in situations far more lifethreatening than situations alluded to in this editorial. Individually, we all grow from mistakes we make in our lives. However, we cannot always grow from the mistakes of others. To the class of 2011: we had great times. I can confidently say that “collectively” our class has no regrets. To the classes still at Deerfield: I encourage you to ask yourselves this: Are you making decisions that you feel are right, or are you making decisions with the intent of aligning your experience with what the administration has set forth as a proper Deerfield experience? I’m confident that no matter your answer, if you stand up for your decisions and actions, you will leave Deerfield with fond memories of both the good and the bad. —Sean Barnett ’11
The Deerfield Scroll
OPINION/EDITORIAL
October 11, 2011 3
Where Should We Stand? By COLE HORTON Contributing Writer The United Nations recently hosted heated debates regarding the possibility of an independent state of Palestine bordering the Jewish state of Israel. An array of emotions and opinions have unfolded over the topic. As tensions rise, many are left wondering why some countries are skeptical of granting Palestinians statehood. The problem is that the Palestinians have already been offered statehood once, and they rejected it. UN Resolution 181 in 1947, the same UN resolution that formed Israel, offered the Palestinians their own state called Palestine. Why did Palestinians reject this original Two State Solution, the same proposal they are calling for now? The Palestinian Liberation Organization (PLO) answers in their organization charter. Article 15 of the PLO charter states that one of the main goals of the group is the elimination of Zionism. The “Zionist presence” is a common Arab euphemism for the Jewish state of Israel. In addition to originally rejecting statehood, Mahmoud Abbas, chairman of the PLO and president of the Palestinian National Authority, is responsible for a collection of viciously anti-Semitic slurs against the people of Israel. In a speech commemorating the 42nd anniversary of the founding of his Fatah party, Mahmoud Abbas used verses and references from the Quran to demonize the state of Israel: “The sons of Israel are mentioned [in the Quran] as those who are corrupting
humanity on Earth.” Blaming the Jewish people as the baseline of humanity’s corruption greatly mimics an ideology exercised by Adolf Hitler, who believed that the Jewish race was responsible for the vices of the world. With this history, many people, including myself, are not confident that the push for Palestinian statehood is entirely peaceful. We judge people by their actions, and the actions of the PLO, the statements of Mahmoud Abbas, and the animosity shown by Palestinians and their allies towards Israel do not set a peaceful mood or motive. In the Palestinians’ quest for statehood, the United States must be wary of their motives. Israel is one of the strongest, if not the strongest, ally we have. They give us crucial information about Middle Eastern events and are extensions of our military intelligence. If the US were to lose that alliance, our national security and strength in the war on terror would be vulnerable. After the Holocaust, many world powers promised as a global community not to allow persecution of a religious group merely because of its beliefs. This statement would be broken if Palestinian statehood was granted and their anti-Semitic goals and statements were acted upon and verified. US support should continue to be given in defense of Israel’s statehood, and as their national security becomes increasingly threatened from anti-Semitism and, potentially, the unseen consequences of Palestinian statehood, we should stand with the Israeli people.
Hadley Newton
Preseason Strikes Out By CAITLIN CLEARY Contributing Writer Right off the bat you should note that I’m biased against athletics. I don’t watch sports and I don’t play sports. I believe, as a proud non-athlete, that the whole concept of a preseason isn’t fair to new students. I can see why it’s a nice idea: kids with similar interests come together, teams can get some practice time in, and new athletes have a few more days to adjust before they truly begin their lives at Deerfield. It sounds great, it really does. But look at it from the perspective of a freshman who doesn’t play sports. You arrive on campus, and you’re nervous because you don’t know anyone, but that’s expected when you’re new. You pass by the hall common room and are surprised to see a group of girls laughing together about some inside joke you don’t understand. You’re confused. How are they already so comfortable here? How are they already friends? Did you miss something? It doesn’t take long before you realize that the reason for their camaraderie is that they’ve already been on campus for half a week. These freshman athletes had a three-day head start, and the most awkward part of their introduction to Deerfield is over,
Creagh: “Communication is Critical” By AMIE CREAGH Dean of Students
subsequent revision process. Dress code always presents a fair challenge, but housing, our If I’m honest, my comfort figurative comfort zone, is more zone is in sweatpants and difficult still. Over the course of last year, a t-shirt, but I wear blazers because they’re part of our dress faculty and trustees repeatedly code, and, to me, the dress code shared their apprehension over is one of the things that make growing homogeneity in dorms. Students, they said, were missing Deerfield, Deerfield. Comfort zones and a one of the unique opportunities willingness to step outside them Deerfield offers: to live with are important. A lot of growth classmates from different states, happens when we’re challenged countries, backgrounds, and or uncomfortable. It’s never perspectives. Responding to these concerns, easy, and for this to happen most successfully at Deerfield, we developed a hybrid process communication is critical. In that used lottery picks as a my estimation, this is where the guide while introducing enough summer’s angst over dress code oversight to ensure that each corridor accurately represented and housing lies. With the dress code, our literal Deerfield’s increasingly diverse comfort zone, students felt blind population. In this particular instance, sided. Many were unaware of the Dress Code Committee’s communication did take place. formation and the months of Mr. Emerson shared the details work that went into the revisions of the process via e-mail, and we that were mailed in August. deans had countless conversations The changes felt imposed and with students. The results, aggressive because students though, saw mixed reactions. did not feel consulted. We fell Some were thrilled. Others were short in communication. I’m devastated. A perfect balance confident that an understanding may be impossible, but, in my of that mistake will guide any estimation, the configuration
of this year’s dorms has moved solidly in the right direction. If diversity and heterogeneity are, indeed, guiding principles, we’ve made significant progress. How, then, do we begin to bridge the gap that a discussion of these “comfort” matters can produce? Let’s start by saying that we’re going to continue to communicate with one another. Let’s agree that these topics warrant conversation, and let’s set aside time for it. Let’s then move into what we love about this school. What’s on our lists of the things that make Deerfield Deerfield? Is a dress code there? How about being out of our comfort zones (be they literal or figurative)? Should we at Deerfield be nudging one another in that direction? Into two layers and a blazer, even if it’s a little stiff ? Into a diverse corridor and out of friend enclaves, even if it makes us feel “other”? Into the new and out of the familiar? Though we may not agree on all of the ideas and practices that make Deerfield unique, an open conversation moves us in the right direction.
while yours is only beginning. For the next two days, while you unpack your boxes, they’re in the Greer socializing, and while you shyly wait in your room for your Green Key, they’re chatting with teammates. I realize that this scenario is a bit of an oversimplification. There are many people who go to preseason and still feel out of place when the first official day rolls around, and three days don’t actually make or break anyone’s experience at Deerfield. But the first couple of people you bond with when you’re in that vulnerable-new-kid-lookingfor-a-friend phase are significant. These connections often develop into friendships. And more significantly, once that window of vulnerability is closed, it’s hard to re-establish the same desperate need to be outgoing and to bond with new people. I have been a new kid six major times in my life, and I can say that when you’re new, it is deeply comforting to find someone else who is as clueless as you. This is why it was so unsettling for me when I found out that I was even newer than some of my fellow “newbies.” The school puts so much effort into making the beginning of the school year as easy as possible for new students, with Green Keys, sit-down breakfasts, and Dorm Olympics. However,
preseason undermines those efforts and separates the school into cliques before most students have even arrived. We establish the “Jocks” from the “nonJocks” without giving everyone a fair chance. And all of this for what? For a few extra days of practice? Does that benefit sports teams as much as it hurts the majority of new students? I can’t imagine it does. My friend Shelbi said to me, “Caitlin, you’re being ridiculous. We had six hours of practice last Wednesday. That’s equivalent to an entire week’s running. We can’t give that practice time up.” I am not ignorant of this. I understand why coaches would want that extra time. I just don’t think that new kids should be asked to participate. I do not blame the students who go to preseason, because it is not their fault. But the more I think about it, the more the message behind it seems to say: there is a VIP group on campus that many students don’t belong to. Most new kids will not even know it exists until after their arrival. They were not asked to be part of this group, because they aren’t good enough, and their exclusion from this group will leave them feeling alienated from the community before classes have even begun.
FACES IN THE CROWD:
Responses to Housing System Change
“By leaving the students’ voice out in the school policies, the administration is unknowingly (or mistakenly) planting a toxic seed within the student body at Deerfield: resentment.”- Charlie Wall ’11 “Every action seniors take, though we may not know it, younger students are watching. WE have to live in new environments and interact with new people...If we don’t, the school will stay divided.”- James Yang ’12 “The whole ‘diversity’ factor should be for underclassmen and juniors. By senior year, most people know who they want to live with, and it’s supposed to be an enjoyable year—A.K.A. living with your friends!”- Ritchey Howe ’12 “As Deerfield students we have a right to not be ignored when asking for explanations about such a drastic change of our school.”-John Marsh ’12
4 The Deerfield Scroll
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
Secrets and Mystery in The Beginners By ELIZA MOTT Book Reviewer
Rebecca Wolff ’s eerie new novel The Beginners centers on fifteen-year-old Ginger Pritt in the summer before her senior year. A precocious child who skipped a grade at her school in an ebbing, Salem-like New England town, she and her best friend Cherry are each at transitional points in their lives. Both Ginger and Cherry are on the verge of a sexual awakening as well as a fracturing of their relationship. Cherry begins to focus her attention on make-up, boys, and her own popularity, leaving behind conversations with Ginger about books and plans to leave their town—which everyone seems to be stuck in, like a sort of limbo—and languid afternoons playing make-believe castle at the abandoned town mill. Meanwhile Ginger, whose sexual knowledge consists of what she has learned from her boss’s porn magazines in the bathroom at her diner job, gradually becomes more and more fascinated by an attractive, sophisticated couple— new and deeply enigmatic settlers in their dull town:
Racquel and Theo Motherwell. Ginger spends hours at the Motherwells’ house, with Cherry by her side at first, the two listening—Ginger rapt, Cherry distant—to Racquel’s philosophical and literary musings along with several casually explicit lectures on sex, as well as Theo’s often confounding witticisms. Racquel’s own ancestry reveals itself within the town’s spinechilling history, as she is the direct descendent of a woman tried and killed as a witch in the infamous Salem Witch Trials. They claim to be in Ginger’s town for historical research, though as they draw her in, almost putting her in a trance, neither Ginger nor the reader knows what to believe. Ginger becomes more and more unreliable as a narrator. She recounts her dreams in detail, yet they flow from and into reality without clear distinction. Wolff uses this technique to help characterize Ginger’s newly bewitched, blurred consciousness as she begins visiting the Motherwells every day in the dwindling summer, despite their increasingly morbid activities. The narrative can often be frustrating to the reader. One can become confused, and
the cryptic dreams tempt one into expectation of a dramatic, explicative climax which ultimately fails to materialize. Wolff ’s prose is mesmerizing due to its frankness and clarity, both daring to make one blush while never relinquishing one’s attention. She uses sharp imagery, making dreams of drowning, hallucinations of ghosts, and spirit-filled graveyards all too real. The past and Ginger’s town’s haunting history are truly alive in Wolff ’s writing. The book as a whole is as ambiguous as Ginger’s dreams, with the secret behind the Motherwells never satisfactorily revealed. Yet this dissatisfaction is preferable, as its murkiness almost allows Beginners to be more haunting. Wolff ’s first novel is a worthy read for those in need of a shadowy mystery. One wakes up from this nightmare only faintly remembering, save a few images seared into the consciousness.
The September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks ended the lives of close to three-thousand civilians, and so began the war that spans these past ten years and defines the decade. Three years later, Hurricane Katrina killed another two -thousand Americans, and caused more damage, in monetary terms, than any other hurricane in U.S. history. The introduction of social networking sites like Facebook and Twitter has forever changed the way people communicate. Our environment is undergoing a change in climate that we do not fully understand. We are embroiled in the greatest economic recession since the Great Depression of the 1930s. The twenty-first century has been an era of great uncertainty and unrest for America.
In the past, during such times as those we face today, Americans have sought out men who can transform themselves from ordinary to extraordinary and save the day at a mere moment’s notice. Before the 1940s, these men were political candidates, FBI agents, soldiers, and local policemen, along with firefighters. Of course, we still regard men and women in these positions as American heroes, but the surge of fear and patriotism during WWII inspired the creation of “a new breed of super soldiers,” or really a new breed of super heroes. Superman stepped into action in 1938, just before WWII began. Three years later, Captain America starred in his first comic book, redefining what it meant to be patriotic and heroic. Ten years later, Superman was the first superhero to star in an entire movie. From 1951 through the end of the twentieth
Ben Bolotin New Theater Director Catriona Hynds looks right at home in the Black Box.
Behind the Scenes with Catriona Hynds
century, thirty-two superhero live-action movies followed. In the first twelve years of the twenty-first century, nearly fifty superhero movies were released, with five more scheduled to come out in the next two years. Add animated films to that list, and an additional thirty-two superhero stories comes to a grand total of eighty films. Of those fifty live-action films, only three superheroes hit the silver screen before the terrorist attacks of September 11. Most recently, Captain America arrived on the screen once again to captivate summer theatergoers. Is the culture, whether knowingly or not, looking for someone to rescue America? Noticing that these are the trends of the past, it seems important to ask: did we need someone to reassure us that safety and American ideals persist despite troubling and chaotic world wars in the past?
Raised by a military doctor and a chef in both Germany and the foothills of the Himalayas, the new Theater Director Catriona Hynds is familiar with the boarding school lifestyle, as she was sent to a school in Edinburgh, Scotland, from 4th to 12th grade. After boarding school, Mrs. Hynds went to Glasgow University and earned a Master’s degree in English literature and theater, as well as minors in philosophy and archaeology. “I loved studying in Glasgow because it is a deeply artistic city. It has, at any given time, hundreds of cultural events happening: jazz, ballet, opera,” she said. “So I studied in an environment that was very stimulating for me, someone who wanted to be a theater director.” After Mrs. Hynds graduated, she visited The Byre Theatre in St. Andrews to see a production of Driving Miss Daisy. She recognized that this was the theater where her career would start. She spoke to the director, who then gave her the opportunity to observe the theater as the director’s “shadow.” After a year, the Scottish Arts Council gave her a scholarship to fund her studies for a further three years. She debuted professionally in The Ride Down Mt. Morgan, by Arthur Miller. “I edited the play, with Miller’s help. That was a wonderful start to my career,” recalled Mrs. Hynds. Since then, she has worked at Queen Margaret’s College, the Royal Scottish Academy of Music and Drama, the New Israeli Opera House, the Houston Grand Opera (where she met her husband, Peter Hynds), the National Theatre of Iceland, Mull Theatre, and the Freed Center for the Performing Arts in Ohio. From 1999 to 2003, Mr. and Mrs. Hynds travelled extensively to places such as Iceland, Taiwan, and Thailand. “I think it is very important to travel, because it is a different kind of education. It is important that we learn to empathize with other cultures, and respect different ways of living and viewing the world. Also, from a director’s perspective, I feel that it is crucial to travel,” she explained. Mother of two, Mrs. Hynds remarked, “I chose [Deerfield] because it’s a boarding school. I feel very at home in a boarding school environment. You can sense the expectation of excellence [and] it’s very family-oriented. I also wanted to get back to doing what I think I do best—teaching and directing.”
Pushing Through Fears To Speak Up In Class By JADE MOON and SHARON TAM Staff Writers
We have all been in those situations where we courageously speak up in class, but our message is not conveyed the way we imagined it would be. Those are the moments when we all wish we were better public speakers. To help overcome this obstacle, we have asked a few of the school’s experienced speakers for some tips and anecdotes. Student body president Theo Lipsky ’12 recounted his experience at the International Independent Schools Public Speaking Competition in Ottawa, Canada, last year. At the IISPSC, he was the top American speaker and was invited to compete
in the World’s tournament in Australia. Before this, Lipsky admitted that he had not had much public speaking experience. He suggested, in order to become a successful public speaker, you should “write your speech as if you were going to say it.” Lipsky insists that a speech should be different from a research paper or an English journal and advised speakers never to fall into a rhythm and to vary their tone of voice. English Teacher Kimberly Wright also shared some helpful pointers. She teaches public speaking, a spring term English elective. While she admits she may not be the best public speaker, she said, “Speaking in public can make anyone nervous,
October 11, 2011
By TABATA VISO Staff Writer
Captain America and the Justice League Dominate Post-9/11 Popular Culture By DELANEY BERMAN Staff Writer
but the only way to push through the fear is to actually do it.” Head of the Philosophy and Religious Studies Department Michael O’Donnell has learned that an important part of public speaking is connecting with individuals and being able to read and react to the audience. According to him, “Humor is the fastest way to synchronize human emotions.” Mr. O’Donnell believes that the best way for Deerfield students to practice public speaking is to simply “take every opportunity you have” such as making announcements during sit-down dinner or participating in discussions in the classroom. Eliza Mott ’12 offers simple advice: “Believe in what you are saying. Otherwise, it’s just acting.”
Library Website
Sousa for Spanish, Mozart for Math, Bach for Biology
By TARA MURTY Staff Writer
Steps away from the silence of carrels and group study rooms, a symphony of sounds waits to be discovered. Michael Bois, a beloved faculty member from 1965-1994, bequeathed his six thousand CD collection of classical and international music to the library. Sifting through the CDs, we easily spot works of Beethoven, Brahms, and Yo-Yo Ma. These CDs could provide the perfect variety of studyaccompanying music. Rethink just pop and dubstep pulsing during study hours. Try Mozart for math, Bach for bio, or Sousa for Spanish. The library provides not only books, but also music for people of all tastes.
October 11, 2011
Campus Denim
By MIRANDA MCEVOY Staff Writer
As the girls at DA begin the transition from their flowery shorts to apparel more befitting the oncoming autumn weather, denim outerwear has slowly appeared all over campus. When asked why she loves denim as a top, Clara Galperin ’13 responded, “Because I think it looks different!” The easiness of denim jeans and shorts lures wearers into translating this to their tops and outerwear. Galperin, a fan of alternative rock, shrugs on a denim shirt over a graphic tee and some jeans. Her long hair and many bracelets add to her “alternative underground look.” Asked what it is about her denim shirt that she likes, she explained, “It’s just
a chill look.” A denim jacket or shirt is a simple way of self-expression. This item has the ability to complement many different styles. Veronica Houk ’12, who sports a bohemian, dressy look, commented, “If I’m feeling too girly, I can just throw [the jacket] on. It’s effortless.” Fashionista Delaney Berman ’12 explained why she bought her dark denim outerwear: “This just seemed like the classic American jacket.” The denim recognition, however, is still tentative. Sidney Cech ’12 admitted, “At first I was embarrassed about wearing it because I never saw anyone else wearing jean jackets. But then I decided, who cares, because if I like it, then I’ll rock it!”
THE DOG DAYS ARE NOT OVER
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The Deerfield Scroll
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Around the World in Nine Months By EMILY NG Staff Writer While it may seem easy to become trapped in the Deerfield bubble, seven current students studied abroad last year. Daniel Rivera ’13 went to Switzerland, Zoe Perot ’12 traveled to the Netherlands, Annie Klink ’13 visited Jordan, while seniors Megan Foster, Veronica Houk, Emma McGrath, and Christina Sheehan went to China. Sheehan traveled to Beijing where she stayed with a host family, experiencing Chinese home life and culture. At school, she took regular classes such as math and English. The Chinese classes, however, were particularly difficult, since her teacher was not lenient on speaking English. “The teachers were very strict about speaking Chinese. Even when asking how to say a word, we had to ask in Chinese [except
for the word],” added Sheehan. Outside of school, Sheehan immersed herself in the culture, bargaining at markets, creating a badminton club at her public high school, and spending Friday afternoons with her local Chinese schoolmates to talk about life in America. “The whole year’s journey was such a great change from the Western perspective I had. I definitely recommend studying abroad to anyone, whether they speak the language or not,” Sheehan reflected. Meanwhile, Rivera traveled to Switzerland and, although his class schedule was similar to that of Deerfield’s, his day included many outdoor activities such as hiking or skiing in the afternoon. “Multilingual is definitely one word I would use to describe Switzerland,” he remarked. “I heard so many languages, from German to French to Italian. It really showed me how big the
world is, and how much of it we are missing.” One teacher had the eyeopening experience of studying abroad too. English teacher Heather Liske went to France for SYA in her senior year of high school. “The year definitely made me fluent in French. When I lived in Morocco two years ago, I spoke French all year and I have SYA to thank for that,” remembered Ms. Liske. While delving into the uncertain and adjusting to a different home may seem intimidating and frightening, those who have studied abroad say the experience is completely worthwhile. Ms. Liske explained, “I would recommend the program for many reasons, one being that when you are studying abroad, you are pushing yourself to the unknown. You learn the most when you’re in the most uncomfortable situations.”
Bollywood In The Pioneer Valley
By CAROLINE KJORLIEN Staff Writer
Ben Bolotin Mr. McVaugh and Riggins take a break from their daily walk.
By CHARLOTTE ALLEN Staff Writer When taking a stroll around campus, students may notice many new additions. The sights of sports teams practicing on the quad and of underclassmen girls exiting Scaife may be a shock to the system, but the most surprising spectacle of all is the five new puppies that now call Deerfield home. However, it is not only the canine influx that has people talking, but the fact that three share the same parents. Ellie, Riggins, and Quito are four-month-old Golden Retrievers from a litter that came from a breeder in South Deerfield. Ellie found a home with Assistant Director of Admissions Dave Irwin and science teacher Mandy Irwin, while Riggins belongs to history teacher Tim McVaugh and Quito to Spanish teacher Sam Bicknell. The new puppies are certainly taking Deerfield by storm. Mr. Bicknell admitted that although Quito “adds to an already busy life, he loves people,” and has become the “mascot” of Doubleday 3. Also according to Mr. Bicknell, Quito and Riggins spend a few hours each day playing together as well as with the other dogs on campus. Sister Ellie’s owner Mr. Irwin added, “It’s been a lot of fun to be able to raise Ellie on such a beautiful, dog-friendly campus like Deerfield. She is a lucky pup and we’re thankful she has so many playmates in the neighborhood—two and four-legged!” The canine craze raged on when, as an early birthday present for their son Declan, biology teacher Dennis Cullinane and his wife Karen purchased 11-week-old Golden Retriever Snowy. “Living on a hall is great for the puppy!” Mrs. Cullinane exclaimed, and seeing the white ball of fluff tear up and down Harold Smith 1 is certainly a testament to her declaration. Not the least of these newcomers is the puppy born on a Friday in February and given to his new owner at the Friday night dinner of the class of 1961’s 50th reunion. This seven-month-old yellow lab named Friday can be seen roaming the campus, either on the leash of Head of School Margarita Curtis herself or a student—to relieve stress or just for fun—taking him for a stroll during a free period or after a sit-down meal. “Friday loves the other puppies,” Dr. Curtis said. “Next to food, playing with his fellow puppies is his favorite thing.” Jamie Haddad ’12 added, “The dogs bring a whole new energy to the campus, as well as relieve stress.” There is one feature, however, that the faculty failed to anticipate in unleashing this flood of puppies upon the campus. In the following months, the number of excuses involving canines chewing up assignments is sure to escalate.
New junior Ayesha Kapur ’13 has a unique talent for acting, which she developed at a young age in her home country, India. While most nine-year-old girls were busy playing with dolls and fantasizing about becoming movie stars, nine-year-old Kapur was actually cast in the Bollywood film Black, which kicked off her acting career. She worked not only with the acclaimed Bollywood director Sanjay Leela Bhansali, but also with Amitabh Bachchan, who was voted “Superstar of the Millennium” in 2000 by the Indian film industry. Despite her major role, for which she won seven awards, Kapur recalled, “I was so young at the time, so I wasn’t really aware of everything that was happening.” She went on to star in two more films, Sanaa and Sikandar. The latter film was actually shot in Hindi, a challenge to Kapur, whose first language is English. Kapur admitted she was
somewhat nervous on her first day of shooting, as sometimes she felt like she was “speaking gibberish.” After a handful of interviews and speeches, as well as hours on camera, Kapur realized that she has “learned how to talk to people. It’s so often in life that you go through things like that.” Although acting gave her the essential skills necessary to talk to others, Kapur mentioned that for one role, her director told her not to talk to anybody before shooting, for fear that she would “jump out of her character.” Kapur always enjoys finding her character inside of herself and explained, “I loved the feeling that I could just become somebody else through my imagination.” When asked if she noticed any differences between Bollywood films and Hollywood films, she responded, “Definitely, I do. Indian films are a lot more dramatic, American films are subtler…” Kapur admitted that she would love to try and act in a Hollywood film.
Kapur knows that fame can be somewhat consuming, if one isn’t careful. “My parents were a bit afraid of it at first, because it’s such a harsh business. It’s a difficult business for kids to get into.” Fortunately, Kapur was able to remain a normal child with other interests (such as competitive horseback riding, creative writing, and travelling), good friends, and a solid education. Kapur is thrilled to be at Deerfield and explained, “My dad and three older brothers have all gone to prep school in America, and my dad always talks about how his education at Andover prepared him for everything he faced in life. I’m here because I want to learn how to learn.” This term, she is taking Advanced Acting Tutorial, and is on the technical team for the fall play, Brighton Beach Memoirs. “I love it here. I think people are so positive and so nice. And it’s not always about studying all of the time here. It’s a good mixture of both,” finished Kapur enthusiastically.
MEET THE BAGPIPER By ELISABETH YANCEY Staff Writer The teachers file one by one into the auditorium. The student body stands, and the bagpipes play. At convocation, graduation, and varsity lacrosse games, the tradition of the distinct harmonic drone of a bagpipe weaves into the tradition of the green and white. But who is the man behind the kilt? Music instructor Eric Goodchild has been “playing the pipes” since he was 14 years old. “When I was young I listened to a record of the 1972 Royal Scots Dragoon Guards play ‘Amazing Grace’ and couldn’t get enough of it,” Mr. Goodchild explained. From then on, he continued playing the bagpipes, until after “selling cars for a number of years, I realized there had to be an easier way to starve.” In 1991 Mr. Goodchild started teaching his first student how to play the bagpipes. Finally, offered a job in the music department because of student interest in the bagpipes, Mr. Goodchild became involved on campus. “The bagpipes are pretty hard to play. You have to combine breath, pressure with your elbows, and then hitting the right notes on the chanter (which is kind of like a recorder), but I really enjoy lessons. Mr. Goodchild is a really nice man,” commented bagpipe
Deerfield Flickr
student Woodson Miles ’13. Mr. Goodchild enjoys teaching students. “We all strive for some form of immortality,” he answered when asked about the most rewarding aspect of teaching, “to feel like we’re fitting into a bigger picture. For me it is the realization that…in 100 years, there may be someone playing
bagpipes because I was teaching.” Apart from caring for his garden and sheep in Shelburne Falls, Mr. Goodchild plans to continue his role as a carrier of a vessel of tradition and pass his knowledge of the bagpipes on to generations to come for “as long as the Lord gives me breath and allows me to wiggle my fingers!”
SPORTS
6 The Deerfield Scroll
A Season’s Victorious Kick-Off for Girls’ Soccer By SAMMY HIRSHLAND Editorial Associate The seniors on girls’ varsity soccer beat Milton Academy for the first time in their four years as Deerfield students. For the new players on the team, the game was just the beginning of what is expected to be a long and successful season. “It’s really nice to have that win. Deerfield soccer is at a pivotal point…We can really see ahead,” co-captain Joanna Davin ’12 said. New junior Liz Byrne ’13 commented that the win against Milton made her acutely aware of the team’s potential. “Every game we go into, we know that we are good enough to win,” she explained. “The Milton game was really good for our confidence.” Assistant Coach Jennifer Marino was also thrilled about the win, but not at all surprised. “It’s not like we were a far inferior team,” she explained. “In fact, it was a really evenly matched game,” she concluded. Byrne, currently injured,
noted what allowed Deerfield to play so well. “Milton is a really good passing team,” she explained. “We weren’t expecting them to play so quickly.” But after co-captain Connie Rhodes ’12 netted the first goal of the game, the “momentum just shifted.” The Milton squad, though perennially talented, is not necessarily the toughest competition that Deerfield will face. According to Davin, the toughest competition usually includes the Andover and Loomis teams. “We probably have one of the hardest schedules in the league,” proclaimed Ms. Marino. “[The Milton game] definitely helped prepare for the season ahead.” The team played an impressive game against Milton, but lost twice following the match. In the coming season, both the ability of talented new players along with that of seasoned returners will be vital to the team’s success. “Having so many new players is what helped us play so successfully against Milton. They really bring in a new pace…they’ve helped us revamp our game,” explained Davin.
CHAMPIONS PRE-GAME By SARAH SUTPHIN Staff Writer Ever wondered what members of Deerfield’s athletic elite do before the big game? A few of our talented competitors revealed their routines. Cross-country and rowing legend and rising rapper Ryan Heffernan ’12 said, “Two words: massage train.” Victoria Serra ’12, who captains the varsity crosscountry and track teams, has a distinct pre-game ritual for XC.
“To prepare for the emotional battle that is cross country, I put up my hood and jam to 50 Cent, Busta Rhymes, and Eminem… my boys.” Mettler Growney ’13 confessed her typical field hockey, hockey, or lacrosse warm-up. “Before huge games in any sport, I make sure to get myself as angry as possible before the first whistle blows. I put on my headphones, listen to music like T-Swift…and envision myself absolutely destroying a girl on the opposing team.”
MIAO, MIAO: Swimsuit Edition By MAC MCDONALD and RYAN LOGIE Staff Writers With one of their biggest games of the season coming up against Exeter, always a big contender in the New England Championship tournament, the water polo team will prepare intensely, both physically and mentally. As Coach Mark Scandling said, “Winning a championship is hard, but defending one is even harder.” To gain insight as to the details of this arduous preparation, The Scroll sat down with starters and fellow swim team members Chris Miao ’12 and Oscar Miao ’13. Both Miaos listed great chemistry as an important factor in the team’s success. “I’m really excited about the strong core group we have that has gotten better together, as well as some new outside talent, including PG Will Grant ’12, who fits well on our team as we needed a talented hole set,” Chris Miao explained.
The playing fields are full of athletes and coaches once again, and this year, four new coaches join our returners. Danielle Chagnon, a new math teacher and soccer coach, studied math at Bowdoin College, where she played soccer and softball. Ms. Chagnon spent five years coaching soccer and softball at Cushing Academy in Ashburnham, MA. “I loved the experience in a small school community,” Ms. Chagnon reflected. “To me, both teaching and coaching are vehicles with the similar goal of personal character growth. It’s satisfying to try to help other students have an affirming growth experience as well!” Water polo is a new sport for Assistant Director of Admissions Dave Irwin, who spent the last five years at the Fenn School in Concord, MA. “A lot of the strategies I’ve learned as a basketball coach translate fairly well to the pool,” Mr. Irwin explained. Miriam Singer, a new math Teaching Fellow and volleyball
coach, was a four-year member of the varsity volleyball team and a captain during her senior year at her high school. She played for a Junior Olympic club team and planned on trying out for volleyball at Connecticut College, but ended up rowing for four years instead, missing the volleyball court dearly in the process. Ms. Singer conveyed her enthusiasm, saying, “I’m most looking forward to being part of a volleyball team again and working with such a motivated group of athletes! I’m also looking to crush Choate!” Lou Kinder, who graduated from Deerfield in 2005 and went on to row at Berkeley and will coach girls’ varsity rowing, is now an English Teaching Fellow and thirds field hockey coach. “We’ve got a great group of thirds field hockey players this fall. No matter what gets thrown their way, they stay positive and have a good time. I’m looking forward to watching them improve as the season progresses,” she commented. With such a great group of new coaches, in addition to our fabulous returners, this season is shaping to be a great one for Deerfield athletics.
All fun aside, there have been some brutal moments as well. “I think the worst was losing to Loomis Chaffee. We just lost our focus after being up 5 to 1,” Chris Miao commented. More difficult moments can be expected in the upcoming St. John’s and Exeter games. “St. John’s Prep will be challenging because our starters are going to be playing [a different game at the same time in] Greenwich, and we need the new players to win the St. John’s game for us,” said a confident Oscar Miao. The team had an early start with preseason this past fall at Brown University, with several college coaches there to help. The team received some great insight into different aspects of
the game that will help them this season. Mr. Scandling’s rigorous conditioning drills also help prepare the team for the tough road ahead. Mr. Scandling continuously stresses the 3D’s— Dedication, Determination, and Defense—which is what the team will need this season to defend their title. Their strenuous work has already led to huge wins over Andover and Choate, highly competitive teams in the New England league. Coming off a New England championship and the loss of key players the team has high standards to live up to. But when asked about their goals for the season, both Miaos instantly replied, “To win.”
Ben Bolotin Jack Vallar ’12 watches Chris Miao ’12 and Oscar Miao ’13 show off their victory pose in the pool during practice.
The Ponderings of a PG By SAMMY HIRSHLAND Editorial Associate This fall, a new face appeared among the familiar ranks of the cross-country team. The Scroll sat down with runner and hockey player Alanna McDonough ’12 to find out more about the PG behind the player. Scroll: Is it weird shifting your loyalty to Deerfield after playing for a completely different school for so long? Alanna: Not really, because Governor’s Academy never played against Deerfield, so I don’t have any burning hatred. It’s hard to be against Deerfield when everyone is around you
FAB FOUR FALL COACHES By CASEY BUTLER Editorial Associate
October 11, 2011
C H A G N O N I R W I N
S I N G E R K I N D E R
Photos by Ben Bolotin
cheering and singing songs. Scroll: Do you find Deerfield to be more restrictive than your old school? Alanna: It’s restrictive in the opposite ways that Gov’s was restrictive. Deerfield is a lot more lenient about curfews and weekends and when you can leave, but it’s much more restrictive about dress code and stuff like that. I was a day student my freshman and sophomore years at Gov’s and then I started boarding as a junior. I think being a boarder, you feel much more connected. Scroll: How do Deerfield’s traditions compare to those of your old school? Alanna: [Deerfield] blew
[Governor’s Academy] out of the water! I’ve never been to a school with so much spirit! I went to that meeting and all of the sudden people started standing up and clapping and chanting and stomping their feet. And I was like, if we could get the entire Gov’s community to do this that would be an amazing feat. It just demolishes the spirit of any other school I’ve been to. Scroll: How did Deerfield surprise you? Alanna: I’m surprised that people already said “hi” to me when I got here. I kind of expected to be that quiet new kid, but it was easy to get into that place.