The Belfield Banter Autumn Issue

The Belfield Banter

Picking A Chapel Tie

by Anthony Cai

The leaves on the trees slowly turned red and yellow on the cold windy days. Summer is behind us, and the atmosphere of autumn has been here for some time.

For me, this year’s autumn is different from years past. Like many of my fellow seniors, I was so busy with classes and college applications that I could barely pause to imagine the blooming osmanthus back home in China. I value balance in all aspects of my life; I try to take time to pursue what is new and enjoyable while also managing my stress. When I found myself so caught up in my to-do list, I began to look for ways to take on a more intentional and con scious mindset. The perfect opportunity came to me when Mr. Clark asked me to share my voice at this year’s Thanksgiving Chapel.

The weeks I’ve spent revising my sermon and reflect ing on what I am thankful for have affected me deep ly. I have become considerate of each detail of my Chapel, down to my attire. As I put on the full look and stared at myself in the mirror, I found myself hung up on picking my tie.

A Review of The Outsiders

by Emma Finley-Gillis and Jack Dozier

Familiar to many classrooms and bookshelves, The Outsiders is a classic YA story that is both an account of the coming-of-age experience and an emotion al commentary on socioeconomic intolerance. The rivalry between the socs and the greasers is wellknown to those of us that read the novel by S.E. Hin ton in middle or upper school, but even that familiar ity didn’t provide a sense that this would be an easy play for Saints’ Stage to take on this fall. The cast, production team, set design, and runcrew worked together to dutifully portray the tone and nuance of Hinton’s story, on stage.

Burke G. ‘25 took on a monumental role in this show, playing Ponyboy Curtis and bringing to life the world of greasers and socs through his countless asides to the audience. Burke and Spicer E. ‘24 (Johnny Cade) played an endearing duo, wherein the fraternal/ familial nature of their characters’ friendship was abundantly evident. Bella Grace C. ‘23 never fails to have great stage presence and, as Cherry Valance, she brought a clarity to her performance that made the lines poignant and insightful. She, too, played incredi bly well off of Burke.

A guy’s tie may be similar to a girl’s perfume or jewel ry: the right choice for a particular occasion can add a lot to the overall feel of the look. Despite my under standing of the importance of my decision, I found myself stuck between two choices as I looked at my reflection.

My first option was a soft tie patterned with the bright hues of Vincent Van Gogh’s StarryNight. The second was a Slytherin-esque, dark green tie patterned with florals and vines that I had recently acquired. I repeat edly put both ties around my neck and looked at them over and over in the mirror.

It’s not that I didn’t have a preference between the two. The Starry Night tie is my favorite. Many people noticed the colorful fabric and complimented it when I wore it to graduation last year. But I found myself more drawn to the Slytherin tie for the occasion be cause it felt more dignified and brought out a different side of my trusty black blazer.

Leo Z. ’23 - also a senior - continued to be a delightful addition to every production he’s in. I can’t think of someone better suited to play up Two-Bit’s smartmouthed remarks and razzing.

The most important theme of this story is fraternity–the family bond among the greasers and, of course, between Darry (David D. ‘23), Sodapop (Bjorn I. ‘23) and Ponyboy was heartening and incredibly well-acted. Within the group, praise must be given to David D. and John K. ‘23. They took on two very different sides of leadership, but played the nuanced roles admirably. One must then ask: how is this the first time we’ve seen John on stage in the Upper School? His perfor mance was phenomenal and his dedication was a credit to the production.

After perhaps too much consideration during the twenty minutes I spent switching out the ties, I set tled on wearing the Slytherin tie. And reflecting on the entire experience, I feel that every decision I made was the right one. I had imagined every detail of my chapel since I first sat in the Grisham balcony as a freshman, and every choice I made felt right.

Across the production, an abundant amount of team work made the show what it was. Kudos to stage manager Izzy S. ‘24, student director Zara C. ‘23, asst. stage managers Ben V. ‘24 and Fiona W. ‘24, and props manager Sonia K. ‘24. The efforts of the crew and those behind the set design grounded the story, and the lighting and sound design really sold the narra tive elements of the performance (thanks to Edward B. ‘24, Jake K. ‘24, Eva H. ‘25, Travis B. ‘25, and Benny Z. ‘24). The cast clearly benefited and improved from col laborating with each other, since each actor showed an impressive depth of character. I loved seeing River S. ‘24 and Skyler K. ‘25 together as Bob and Randy, the intimidating socs. Skyler’s performance in Act Two as his character developed was particularly impressive, and River did an excellent job in the fight scenes cho reographed by Qiming F. ‘23.

Not enough commendation can be given to Burke, Spicer, and John for their delivery and execution as a runaway-trio. Burke’s Ponyboy really seemed like he matured through the winds and progressions of the story. Spicer brought to life Johnny’s complex inner turmoil and beautifully delivered the iconic “stay gold” monologue near the play’s end. And, as Dallas, John touchingly unfolds and develops while protect ing the two younger greasers, only then to recoil after suffering Johnny’s (Spicer’s) tragic passing; the three were heroes, but at too great a cost– Dallas shouts to Ponyboy that he needs to “wise up.”

Even though I like the StarryNight tie better, the mode of reflection that I acquired through my Chapel experience gave me the perspective I needed to make my decision. As autumn comes to a close and the holidays quickly approach, I am ready to continue to reflect and consider my options.

Everyone on and off stage did a fantastic job with the difficult nature of this show and truly brought out a noteworthy performance. The theatrical community within the Upper School continues to grow year by year, and it is always a gift to be able to see the prod uct of everyone’s hard work. The cast of this perfor mance was studded with seniors who will be dearly missed next year, but Saints’ Stage stands in no short age of talent from underclassmen. Bravo! We eagerly await the upcoming spring musical.

A Hiking Enthusiast’s VA Trail Recommendations

by Lyra Stewart

After months of humid and hot summer days, the crisp weather of fall is a welcome change. As soon as the temperature cools down and the foliage starts to change, my favorite thing to do is to venture out into the wilderness and embark on a hike. In Central Virginia, we are so fortunate to have an incredible range of options, from challenging sections of the AT complete with sections of climbing to flat routes that are more beginner-friendly. No matter the trail you choose, there is nothing better than taking in the hues of red, orange, and brown of Shenandoah forests or walking along a roaring river. Here I’ve compiled a list of a few of my favorite hikes that Virgina has to offer!

Blue Ridge Tunnel:

There are two options for this walk. One is only go ing through the tunnel, which is completely flat and only about a mile total. The other option is continuing about two miles after returning to daylight. This is overall a pretty flat trail, making it a perfect choice for beginners and those who want a more relaxing ex perience. This is a very unique walk, and is relatively accessible as it is about a 30 minute drive from Char lottesville. Don’t forget to bring a flashlight!

The

Humpback Rock:

Humpback Rock is a popular choice for those seek ing a quick but challenging hike. It’s only 1.6 miles in length, but hikers gain an impressive 800 feet in ele vation in that short distance. Those who are willing to brave the ascent are rewarded with a breathtaking vista that is perfect for appreciating the fall foliage and snapping some photos.

Due to its stunning views, short length, and immac ulately maintained trails, this hike is often busy, but never uncomfortably so. Due to its steep stretches and occasional sections of scampering up rocks, this hike is best-suited to those who are up for a bit of a challenge, although extensive hiking experience is certainly not necessary. This trek is a must-do for any Central Virginia hiking enthusiasts. And, as a bonus, it’s dog friendly!

Turks Mountain:

Turks Mountain is about a 40 minute drive from Char lottesville and is a great moderate hike. It’s about 2.5 miles out and back, and a few points it can be rather steep, but has a good variability in trail elevation. This hike is dog friendly, and sometimes can be busy. Due to rocky stretches, hiking shoes are advised. The view at the top is unparalleled!

Old Rag:

Old Rag is both the longest and the most difficult hike of this list. From Charlottesville, Old Rag is a little under a two hour drive. The loop is about 9.4 miles along, and it’s very challenging. Hikers can expect to conquer high elevation, rocky terrain, and steep trails. Even the most experienced hikers often spend five or more hours on the hike, so it is an all-day endeavor! Dogs are not allowed, and weather is an important consideration when planning a trip. This hike is per fect for people that want a taste of some rock climb ing, as there is a lengthy stretch in the middle that requires scampering (which is my favorite part!). The view is incredible not just at the top, but during the ascent as well. Don’t forget to pack lunch and a snack to enjoy at one of the many wonderful overlooks!

We are so fortunate to have such wonderful hikes right in our area. If you’ve finished the hikes on this list and are thirsty for more, be sure to check out Spy Rock, Three Ridges, the Priest, and Crabtree Falls. I wish you luck on your autumn adventures!

Zebrafish Lab Updates

by Sonia Kamath

Many of us have heard of the zebrafish lab in the SCAS, but what makes it so special? For me, it is what sparked my passion for both lab work and agriculture. I have spent countless hours in the lab ever since my ninth grade intensive, when I spent a week straight learning about the biological impacts of food. We per formed experiments to learn more about fetal alcohol syndrome, pesticide consumption, human growth and development, and more. This intensive was my first lab experience, and I immediately found myself engrossed by the procedure’s exactness and impact. As soon as the week in that intensive came to an end, I immediately began to look for ways to get back into the lab. I ended up pursuing an independent study as a sophomore to dig even deeper.

Powderpuff 2022

by Rose Ryan-Byrne

On Wednesday, November 9th, the SLC, and the football team brought back the long-standing St. Anne’s-Belfield tradition of powderpuff football! For everyone unfamiliar with the concept, powderpuff is a girls’ grade-versus-grade football tournament. Each class recruited twelve girls to participate, and several football players to coach. The teams played in a tour nament-style competition that was an experience of pure high school chaos and fun.

During my tenth grade independent study, I started with the origins and impact of food on the human ex perience. This topic of study put me back into the lab for countless hours as I tested the potential side ef fects of ingesting testing hexane, which is a chemical that is found in both soy protein and gasoline. With two amazing teachers by my side, I always had the support I needed, and I eventually reached the point where I had enough experience to perform lab work on my own.

This year, as a junior, my time in the lab is spent keeping it in order and using it to teach others about agriculture with my club F.E.E.D. I have gained lab experience in a capacity that many don’t obtain until college, and I genuinely believe that my week in the lab as a ninth grader uncovered a lifelong interest that may have otherwise gone undiscovered.

First, the freshmen took on the seniors and the ju niors played the sophomores. The seniors finished with a comfortable lead against the freshman, while the juniors had a tighter but still solid win against the sophomores. This pitted the sophomores against the freshman in the consolation match and the juniors against the seniors in the championship match. Both games had exciting endings, going into overtime. In the consolation game, the freshman fought hard, but the sophomores managed to pull off the win in the end. In the championship, the seniors had an incred ible comeback after being down, with a brilliant be hind-the-back catch to send the game into overtime. The juniors put up an excellent fight, but the seniors finished the night victorious.

Working in the zebrafish lab has truly been one of the highlights of my time at our school, and it creates opportunities and learning experiences for students that are incomparable. As I continue my junior year and begin to approach the early stages of a Capstone, I’m so thankful for what I’ve done so far, and I am so excited to see what I do next. I highly encourage those who are just now learning more about the lab to stop by sometime and see what it’s all about!

As a member of the sophomore class, I thoroughly en joyed the powderpuff experience and I am so thankful that I got to participate. Getting to play alongside my friends and experiencing the spirit of competition made the evening extremely worthwhile, even though my team didn’t come out on top. I encourage the ju niors, sophomores, and freshmen reading this to play next year!

by Sasha Rinkevich

Dear readers,

Late November is upon us, somehow. The leaves have turned yellow, orange, and red, and now many of them are on the ground. Our steps are marked by the crunch of the tail end of autumn. After a busy fall of football matches, The Outsiders performances, biolo gy tests, and college applications, we at The Belfield Banter are so excited to share with you our Autumn Issue.

In this Issue, we are so thankful to share articles on the zebrafish lab, the Fall Play, Virginia hiking, and Powderpuff 2022. We also have a staff-compiled play list of songs to soundtrack the last few weeks of the season!

It is the season of gratitude, and I would like to take this opportunity to thank the incredible people that make each Issue of The Belfield Banter a reality. Each publishing is truly a group effort, and I am so fortu nate to play a role in sharing such wonderful commu nity voices with the Upper School.

I would like to thank Mr. Taylor for being such a won derful faculty advisor, the Staff for their wonderful contributions and ideas, and Banter Publications for such constant support. I would also like to thank Communications for making The Banter so easily accessible!

Lastly and most importantly, I would like to thank each and every person that reads The Belfield Banter. We are so fortunate to have such an engaged, recep tive, and caring audience. There is nothing we love more than sharing The Banter with you!

I hope that you each enjoy a much-deserved Thanks