The Pine Needle | December 2012 by St. Christopher's School

School Dances: What Do You Think?

T H E

Soccer Makes Playoff Run

Pine Needle

Volume XCIV

Richmond, Virginia

December 2012

Number 3

Breeding Leaders

By Henry Fauls Junior Contributor

The St. Christopher’s Effort to Teach Leadership, to Build It from the Inside Out Bold, impactful and flashy declares leadership. But, really, what is it? What does it mean? Students respond to those questions with answers like, “umm” and “idk.” It has become a sensitive word around school because administrators and faculty use it with such frequency. The Luck Leadership Center, housing a much-improved cafeteria, is the new favorite hangout spot for many, but leadership is not the first word of thought upon entrance. A new assistant head of school, Dr. Sarah Mansfield, has been hired, but her purpose seems to be generally unknown to the student body. We have begun to see a few programs pop up during X block, such as the revamped Minimester, X-term, as well as speeches on leadership by the Student Council chosen alumni “Impact Makers.” The word is appearing all over school, but its true significance is yet to be seen but for one main reason: the initiative is still in its infancy. But that’s just how the school wants it. Changes are coming and some are already here, but the importance and difficulties in legitimizing an effective school-wide leadership initiative keep the pace relatively slow. Headmaster Charley Stillwell understands that students are not seeing the immediate changes they might

INSIDE: Winter Sports Preview, A4 Parental Discretion Advised Analyzing the Selection of “Chicago” of Ampersand. Before I went and talked Assistant Editor to Maury, however, I conWalking around in the sulted the founder of the wake of the most recent group, Mr. Joe Knox, to see Ampersand production, if anything like this had tak“Chicago,” I have heard en place before. He said that versions of these questions it had not because in earlier multiple times: “Why is Am- days, Ampersand had to be persand allowed to perform profitable and plays such something so against school as this are expensive and morals?” and “Why would risky endeavors. (Production they put on a play that the rights alone ran $6,000.) younger kids would not be “The idea was to do plays able to see?” that would make money in At first, these seemed like order to help the athletic valid accusations, but upon department. Therefore the closer scrutiny I drew a diffew plays that might have ferent conclusion. I decided been like “Chicago” were not it would be worth looking chosen because they would into this apparent controver- not have been profitable,” he sy by talking to Mr. Maury See Chicago, Page A7 Hancock, the head director By Nicholas Horsley

expect, but he also understands the magnitude of the operation. “It’s just too important to screw it up,” he said. The school has been working intensely on the initiative for almost two years. The first of several committees, the Thinking Task Force, spelled out essential leadership qualities, simplified from 21 into three principle categories of “character elements, wisdom components and life skills.” Though the school had clearly asserted that instituting a legitimate initiative was possible and worthwhile, many professionals don’t agree. Thomas Cronin, a professor of leadership at Colorado College, and to whose words Dr. Mansfield often refers, said, “Leadership strikes many people as an elusive, hazy, and almost mysterious commodity.” So, the next step in establishing this program was to define this mysterious commodity. Mr. Stillwell kept it simple. “Leadership is making a positive difference through character, wisdom and life skills.” Short and sweet. No lengthy, intricate description with several caveats and conditions. But, isn’t that what STC is all about? From mandatory community service, to last year’s 100 Days of Service, to Saturday Academy, to Made Mentors to… Anyone could finish that list. The description makes perfect sense though. What is the

See Leadership, Page A3

Mr. Wood: A Real School Man By Morgan McCown Senior Contributor

One cold day in the spring of 1990, the Varsity lacrosse team, playing Episcopal High School in pouring rain, was down with no chance of winning. One image engraved in Varsity Lacrosse Coach John Burke’s mind from that day is Mr. Wood standing with his gloves on, stick in hand, dressed in a T-shirt and shorts,” said Varsity Lacrosse Coach John Burke. “He had this burning intensity within him as he was encouraging our boys in the cold,” he said. “It was a sight to see.” Mr. Burke, Mr. Key Randolph, and Mr. Jay Wood are all English teachers who started here in 1988 and have been here ever since.

Mr. Burke and Mr. Wood even lived in an apartment together for the first two years. “What I remember more than anything else about Mr. Wood were his interesting work hours,” said Mr. Burke. “He would be awake writing letters, reading, and doing other things in the middle of the night, and got cat naps whenever he could.” Colleagues say he has the same work ethic now. Mr. Wood is never seen loafing around in the teacher’s lounge and has rarely been spotted in the cafeteria. “He is literally the healthiest person I know,” said one student. “All he does is eat grape nuts. I have seen him in the cafeteria once in my 13 years here.” As a teacher, Wood is just as intense and dedicated.

Students say he has little tolerance for a low work ethic, and he pushes students to work hard. “My British Literature Honors class is my No. 1 priority when it comes to doing my homework because I don’t want to disappoint Mr. Wood, but I also don’t want to be subject to his wrath,” said another student who wished to remain anonymous. “Honestly it’s a little bit because I’m intimidated by him.” But Mr. Wood has a funny side, one that students often miss. They say that he will make a joke, not show any facial expression, and only a few people will get the fact that he made that joke. Mr. Wood has long been interested in the field of

See A Real School Man, Page A3

The Pine Needle

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The Pine Needle Staff Editor-in-Chief Alex Beale Assistant Editors Peyton McElroy, Nicholas Horsley

Freshman Contributor Edward Millman By Edward Millman Freshman Contributor

Rusty Wilson chose to direct “Death of A Salesman” because of its timeliness, relevance to ongoing political discourse and the past election. “It’s a timely and relevant story for us to look at and grapple with,” said Mr. Wilson who directed the play which just finished its month run at the Firehouse Theatre. The play addresses issues with the ideals of capitalism; being rich and well-liked, and having a lot of money and possessions to pass down to one’s children. The main character, Willy Loman, gets so caught up in these ideals that he loses sight of many of the things that are more important, namely his family. “It assesses the question ‘What is the American Dream?’ ” said Mr.Wilson, director of Ampersand Theater programs here at St. Christopher’s. “...It speaks through the specifics of a family to a nation about our value system.”

Mr. Wilson mentioned that the production of a play is a difficult thing. “You don’t start directing a play with a set of blueprints,” he said. Mr. Wilson stressed that the nature of a play is something that grows and evolves into its final form during rehearsals and production, that the set, actors, tech crew, and costume design all have to be doing a metaphorical dance in harmony. Mr. Wilson’s goal is to make his plays feel alive and spontaneous rather than something that is rote and memorized. “They are filled with the doings of life and the feeling of liveliness,” he said. One challenge faced was that the actor playing the character Ben fell and broke three ribs in late November. Mr. Wilson said that new challenges are a daily occurrence. Overall, Mr. Wilson said that the play has been a success on many fronts. The theater has been sold out or close to sold out almost every show. Its run was exteded one week and several schools went to matinees.

Sophomore Contributors John Tyson Sam Griffin

Junior Contributors Henry Fauls Alec Ball Christian Halsey

Senior Contributors Andrew Gilmore Morgan McCown Swain Molster Ned Roberts Hamilton Shaheen Faculty Advisor Mrs. Kathleen Thomas Photography Courtesy of Nicholas Horsley and STC Marketing Special thanks to the Rev. Melissa Hollerith for proofreading help.

Weeell... YOU KNOW YOU MAKE ME WANNA SHOUT! By Nicholas Horsley Assistant Editor

SHOUT! Everyone is familiar with our school dance anthem; it is played at the end of every single one. But do people really like our dances? Are they really so fun they make people want to do what the song says? To find out, we sent out a survery to Upper School St. Chris and St. Cats students. By December, we were flooded

with responses reaching a grand total of 182. Of them, 95 were St. Christopher’s faculty and students and 87 were St. Catherine’s. Of those, the sophomores led with seniors trailing in second. The vast majority said that they attend (92% of respondents) and that they enjoyed the dances (84%). The majority of people really seemed to want a DJ at one of the dances.

Survey Says... FRESHMEN “#yolo” “Prolonged social interactions drain me and exhaust me. In addition to that, I went alone and without a date.” SOPHOMORES “I do enjoy them because I can hang out with friends and dance and stuff, but they do get a little dreary around the middle. I get the point of a lock in and all, ’cause y’know... but I do wish we could leave if we wanted to. Not the most fun watching happy couples dancing around while you sit in the corner. But maybe that’s just me.” “I would prefer (if we must have a band) to have a band that plays more current music. I don’t like trying to dance to songs that my parents listened to when they were younger. I want the band to play songs from the top 40 or something. I would REALLY like a DJ, but if we HAVE to have a band, a modern one would be best.” JUNIORS “I LOVE THE DANCES BECAUSE YOU GET TO DANCE AND LISTEN TO MUSIC!” “MORE PEOPLE SHOULD GO TO THE DANCES YAY I LIKE DANCES!” SENIORS “I love hanging out with my friends and dancing with girls. It is fun to let loose and learn how to dance at the same time.” “They are boring because the music isn’t current; might as well jump in my time machine and go back to 1982.” “The chicassssss plus its normally a good times once you get into it” “As a senior, I feel obligated to go to every school event that I can because it’s my last year and the last Homecoming and Portico dance that I will ever go to. I also just really like St. Christopher’s and St. Catherine’s dances! The guys are good dancers and the bands are usually good!” “I love dem boyz with their bow ties they make the dances so worthwhile...sexy bow ties should be required ;)8 ;)8 ;)8 <-bowtie men.”

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A Real School Man

The Pine Needle ’89

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from A1 mental toughness and stamina. As a younger man in high school and even college, Mr. Wood admittedly was not the best at controlling his temper. It wasn’t until later in life when he attended an adult squash camp in 1990, that he finally learned to control his temper. He met and learned from a sports psychologist there, and “totally bought into everything,” he said. Mr. Wood still has an interest in psychology, especially regarding sports. This is the second year in a row that he has led the “Sports Psyching” cohort for X-Term. Although he recently upgraded to a newer model minivan, he has driven a 2000 Dodge Caravan for the last 12 years with the license plate “Let it Be,” in reference to one of the Beatles’ greatest hits. “Some people celebrate their mid-life crisis by buying themselves a sports car or something like that. I celebrated mine by getting a Beatles license plate,” said Mr. Wood. Friends and and associates speak highly of his morals. “I find him to be a great, supportive friend with impeccable honor and character,” Mr. Burke said. “I feel blessed that I was able to get to know him.” Mr. Wood came to St. Christopher’s right out of Princeton University, looking much the same as he does today, and has had no desire to leave. “I’ve been fortunate to be able to teach what I’ve wanted, and at the levels I’ve wanted, and the

Jay Wood’s dedication to his job is legendary. Mr. Wood strives to use every second of his weekdays and most of his weekends to improve his soccer players or his English students, and I have no doubt that his Milton course is one of the best in the country. He inspires his students to exert themselves, to be precise, to be mindful of their duties as Saints. He is (and I use here one of Mr. Jim Boyd’s highest terms of praise) a Real School Man. -- Mr. Ron Smith, Writer-In-Residence

same is true for coaching,” he said. “I like the people that I work with, and I have a lot of respect for them. It’s always great to feel so well supported by the school over the years.” In his first year at St. Christopher’s, Mr. Wood coached many different sports teams. In the fall, he was the assistant Varsity soccer coach under Head Coach Sandy West. He was later promoted to head coach in his fourth year. In the winter, he was the assistant coach for both squash and indoor soccer. Then considered a contract sport, Mr. Wood coached squash from 3:45 to 5:30 p.m., and then rushed to coach indoor soccer from 5:45 to 7:15 p.m. “The athletic director didn’t believe that I should have gotten credit for coaching squash so I furthered my winter coaching duty with indoor soccer,” he said. He then later stopped coaching squash, to pursue his own interests in the sport. Mr. Wood was nationally ranked for three years in high school in the U16

Leadership, from A1 point of being in charge or having power if you are not making a positive difference? So, in this second century, the school wants to adjust students’ experiences here to better equip them to make a positive difference. “The world is changing fast, and we want guys to be able to step up and be leaders,” said Mr. Stillwell. Part of this new school-wide focus is the involvement of everyone and their taking full advantage of what they learn here in order to ultimately make a positive difference. From something big like Andrew Karo’s coordinating an effective charity walk to something quieter like a Made Mentor helping a seventh grader survive school. As the push bloomed, the school brought in a professional. Dr. Mansfield, a 12-year veteran of leadership instruction, was hired. Her M.O. is basic and clear: “Leadership is not something that is taught in some special class,” she said. Mr. Stillwell confirmed that everything we do here can help students develop their

and U18 divisions. His highest junior ranking was #14 for U18. After college, he was also nationally ranked for eight years, among all amateurs. During the spring season, Mr. Wood coached lacrosse for 15 years, until finally stepping down after being promoted to English Department chair. He played lacrosse at Princeton University, and was a freshman when Headmaster Charley

character, wisdom and life skills, whether it be talks in chapel, teamwork on the athletic field, or engaging in a challenging course. Leadership will be enveloped into student life through two facets: curriculum and school programs. The school has begun to review and revamp the curriculum to better incorporate these elements of character, wisdom and life skills. Mr. Stillwell sees many possibilities. For example, a second grade teacher reads a story that clarifies how to embody a value, like resilience, so that students understand the implications of the value, rather than just learning what it means. As an offshoot of curriculum, the school wants to emphasize technological savvy through teaching basic skills such as that of conventional programs like Powerpoint. But a key consideration involves judgment. Have you seen the State Farm commercial with the girl who insists that they can’t put anything on the Internet that’s not true? The school wants us to understand the realities of the technology and to make intelligent, informed decisions about the

Stillwell was a senior captain. Mr. Wood played in every single game in his four years at Princeton, and specialized as a middie in facing off. “Even though I played lacrosse in college, my background in soccer as a high school player was pretty competitive,” said Mr. Wood. “It just became clear that at St. Chris, Mr. Burke would be the lacrosse guy and I would be the soccer guy.”

information we find before, for example, sticking it in a research paper. Plagiarism is not really the concern; it’s the hope that everything we do here is intelligent, learned and most importantly, accurate. Another goal is to teach the power that technology possesses. Remember the revolution in Egypt a couple years ago that utilized technology to amplify the movement? Or how about the fiasco at Cosby High School last month? We know about these things because of the power of technology, specifically social media. The school wants us not only to acknowledge the power of technology, but also to learn how to use it for good. In regard to school programs, the administration hopes to enhance and increase opportunities that we already enjoy. Dr. Mansfield heads up the Leadership Program Planning Committee, composed of familiar faces like Dean of Students Mr. Billy Abbot and English Teacher Mr. John Green, charged with creating unique programs to develop leadership, which will take shape in the next couple of years.

Former star athlete Austin Wates ’07, who is perhaps one of the best soccer players to come through St. Christopher’s, had Mr. Wood as a coach. Wates complimented Mr. Wood’s intensity as a coach. “His passion for the things he does is simply infectious,” Wates said. Senior soccer player Doug West ’13 also commented on Mr. Wood’s coaching passion. “I really like him as a coach. He knows what he’s doing and is always focused,” he said. “I feel like he’s one of those guys that could pick up any sport and coach it well.” Mrs. Hollerith’s respect for Mr. Wood comes from his leadership by example in anything he undertakes. “He has a high standard, but he doesn’t hold you to a standard that he wouldn’t hold to himself,” she said. “Mr. Wood believes in the mission of the school, that we’re to give heart, soul, mind, and strength to all of our endeavors. He doesn’t just believe it, he leads it.”

Lastly, creative thinking and problem solving have become a serious focus. Have you heard about those college essay prompts that seem absurd? The University of Chicago once had “Find X” as a prompt; Brandeis University had this one: “If you could be raised by robots, dinosaurs or aliens, which would you choose?” The school, as many universities do, craves our creativity, which can lead to successful problem solving. Mr. Stillwell said that the school is not diverging from its historical mission. “Simply, we are integrating the best ways to learn character, wisdom and life skills, such as through new approaches like technology,” he said. He emphasized that Dr. Chamberlayne also believed in these values (that’s why the school is based on them). The school is advancing ways in which “the whole boy” will be developed; the initiative’s purpose is to provide graduates with an extensive skill set that rivals the best in the country.

The Pine Needle

Winter Sports Previews: Basketball

By Andrew Gilmore Senior Contributor

Senior captains Jack English and Rodney Williams lead a squad with high expectations. Head Varsity Coach Hamill Jones ’00 admits that this year’s schedule is difficult, but his confidence in this squad is unwavering. Jones said, “Looking at this schedule, there are a number of really challenging games. But I think we can compete to win every single night.” For this season to be a success, he believes that each player needs to understand his role on the team. Coach Jones said, “I think we have to have each player embrace [his] individual role and each player has to appreciate the contribution that he provides.” Jones recognizes that not every player can be the leading scorer. He believes

that a successful team needs guys who can defend, rebound, practice hard and do all of the little things. Jones believes this year’s team will play extremely well as a group and continually improve as the season goes on. Drexel University commit Rodney Williams is equally as optimistic. Williams is really high on this team’s chemistry. “Out of 10, our team chemistry is a 9. We have six seniors who’ve played together for a long time,” he said. Seniors English and Yorgen have been playing Varsity together every season since sophomore year. Key players for this year’s squad include freshman Nick Sherod, Porter Reinhart ’13, and Yorgen. Sherod will contribute a lot to the scoring, while

Editor-in-Chief

Eleven. With that many VISAA State Championships won, one might assume that the sole goal this year is to secure another title, that anything short of it would make the season a failure. That is not the case. In fact, winning the State Championship is “not something we talk about,” said Head Coach John Gordon. Instead, the focus is on “controlling the controllables.” The team will work hard and strive to improve every day, through perfecting technique, gaining strength and endurance and finding the right mindset. If

the team can do that, “the season will be a success,” said Gordon. “Good things will happen.” Captains Marshall Hollerith, William Cabell and Robert Janis, a signee at the University of Maryland, have stepped up in leading the younger wrestlers and setting the right tone for practice. “They understand the history of the program and the standard of performance that guys before have set,” said Gordon. “They are taking on the responsibility to take care of something meaningful.” A handful of outside experts assist in coaching, in addition to familiars Billy Abbott, Ross Gitomer, and of course, Mr. Gordon. Assisting coaches include John Pope,

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Reinhart, a big defensive presence, will guard everyone’s best player. Yorgen is looking to have a big season as the Saints’ point guard.

Swimming By Christian Halsey Junior Contributor

“We would certainly like to be at the top this year,” said Head Coach Terry Sue Gault. Last year the St. Christopher’s swim team finished fifth in the VISAA state championship, only missing second place by two points. Some of the seniors have demonstrated commitment to the team by joining a USA swim program to train for this season. These programs require swimmers to get up at 4 a.m. to train and then continue their day just like anyone else. The team is coached by Coach Gault as well as assistant coaches Matt Anderson, a “dry-land” conditioning coach, and Chris Young who devises the meet line up. These coaches set up practices where the athletes swim from 3000 to 4000 yards a day while working

on stroke technique and race strategies. The team is already showing great potential. “[It] is larger this year which helps so much in the regular season,” said Coach Gault. The team has both new and old talent. Freshmen Alec Hale, Will Cox and Scott McGowan, have already made state qualifying times. Other important swimmers to the team’s success include junior Henry Fauls, an All American in backstroke and butterfly, Albert Thompson, Trey Berry, Harry Smith, Jack Bassett, Charlie Swanson, and Captains Nick Baez, Nathaniel Frazer and Dallas Tarkenton, a future Denison University swimmer. Coach Gault said, “We are continually working with the captains as they pull this team together into a unit that works hard to accomplish the goals of the Saint's swimming team.”

Indoor Track

Wrestling By Alex Beale

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By Andrew Gilmore a former VMI wrestler, Owen Duffy, who wrestled at the University of Maryland, and brothers David and Matt Erwin, wrestlers from Penn State and VMI, respectively. “They bring a strong level of expertise,” said Gordon. Recently, the Saints placed second as a team at the grueling Hopewell Invitational and had place winners in 12 out of 14 weight classes, even with an injured Janis. “It’s exciting to see how these guys are developing,” said Coach Gordon. “We have more guys contributing to the point total this year. We don’t have to rely on our top guys to score all the points. “It’s more of a team concept.” If the team can keep it up, good things will happen.

Senior Contributor

Players and coaches both agree that Prep League and State Titles are definitely do-able this Indoor Track season. A strong group of senior captains will pave the way for a fairly young team. Distance Captain Will Bruner said, “[I’m] definitely excited to see the younger guys improve.” Indoor captain Ned Ukrop is optimistic about this years’ team. “[We] graduated off a few big point scorers, but I’m excited to see about how this young team can compete. Everyone on the team has been working hard. It’s going to show in the meets, especially in the Prep and State meets at the end of the year.” Assistant Athletic Director and track coach Ren O’Ferrall ’85 has high expectations. Coach O’Ferrall said, “[we want] to get better and stronger a little bit every day to win the Prep League and state titles.” O’Ferrall also said that the indoor squad has significant depth in all facets of events. Key losses from last year’s graduating class

include Cameron Barlow, Douglas James, Aoky Sarhan and High Point University runner Eddie Whitlock. Despite these losses, Senior Captain Will Abbott isn’t fazed. “This year we’re going for the 4 x 8 record. We’re looking to break eight minutes in the event.” This year’s squad has a lot of depth in multiple areas, specifically field events. Shot Putters Joe Dragone ’13 and Wesley Owens ’13 give strong leadership to the younger throwers. The pole vaulting squad is led by sophomores Liam Boland and Charlie McCray. Senior captain Andrew Carleton and Ryan Nelligan ’13 are expected to come up huge for the Saints in the high jump. Ned Ukrop is going to be the X-factor for the Saints in the long jump. Ukrop said, “I’m hoping to have a break-out year in the long jump.” Other key contributors to this year’s team include Cole Carns ’13 in the 55m sprint, Mitchell Phillips ’13 in the 2 mile, and Will Heatley ’13 in the 55m hurdles.

The Pine Needle

[ ] Soccer’s Historic Playoff Run December 2012

By Sam Griffin Sophomore Contributor

“Fear no one and embrace the opportunity to play anyone.” The Varsity soccer team used these 10 words from Coach Jay Wood to prepare for the November state tournament. Winning eight games in a row to reach the state finals against a oneloss-one- tie Norfolk Academy team, the Saints found themselves in a spot they didn’t expect possible. On Aug. 20, the team met to lay down their goals. While a few players sought to clinch the state championship, most decided to set their sights on the prep league championship and possibly make the semifinals of states. Being at Sports Backers Stadium in the finals was a big surprise for the Saints. They got there by beating Woodberry Forest School in the quarter finals. The Saints got to a final four with three other teams they had lost to in the regular season. Not exactly the road they were looking for. That’s where it seemed like the 10 words really kicked in. Playing the No. 1 seed, St. Stephen’s & St. Agnes School, the team embraced the opportunity to knock off the top squad. The Saints took that game 2-1 on two late goals by freshman Ben Vaeth and sophomore Logan Ende

-- one of the most impressive wins of the year, Porter Reinhart, a four-year Varsity senior, called it the best moment of the run to the finals for the program. The real challenge lay ahead, the 19-1-1 Norfolk Academy team that had scored an astonishing 96 goals in the season compared to the Saints’ 43. This team was used to scoring a lot, but one of the main reasons this year’s team was so good was because of the great defense, Coach Wood said. In the ﬁnals the Saints shut out Norfolk in regulation and in overtime forcing a decisive penalty kick shootout. The Saints fell, 3-2, and a wave of sadness ﬂooded the players and fans. Tears fell down players’ faces. Hugs were given all around. Emotions ran high. One moment that touched hearts was when Will Abbott walked over to his dad Mr. Billy Abbott and not one word was spoken they just shook hands and hugged. Reinhart and Coach Wood both said the reason this team was better than past teams was because of chemistry. Reinhart added that the leadership of the seven seniors and the fact that everyone liked them led to success of the team that finished with a 15-6-3 record.

Bosco Will Be Missed By John Tyson Sophomore Contributor

It is often said that the dog is man’s best friend, and this is no lie here on our campus. As many may know, a beloved member of the STC family -- Bosco, Mr. Spears’ houndpointer rescue -- recently passed away due to cancer. While it may seem odd for a dog to be connected to such a large community as a school, Bosco fit in perfectly well in Mr. Spears’ office at the Middle School. It wasn’t uncommon to be greeted by not only Mr. Spears in the morning, but also to find “[Bosco] being there to greet you in the carpool,” said Teddy Claiborne ’15. If not at a meeting or on the phone, Mr. Spears could always be found with Bosco. Whether it be the two walking by during athletics, or Bosco simply reveling at his companion’s work throughout the day, he stuck with Mr. Spears. “I used to see Bosco outside the cafeteria in the evenings and he was very anxious waiting for Mr. Spears to finish his dinner,” said Kathleen Thomas, “[Bosco] clearly didn’t like being separated from him at all.” Middle School students were just as fond of Bosco. Often kids would stop by on their way through the halls to pet their friend, and even

give him a biscuit with permission. Among the many students who came through the Middle School and knew Bosco, Fleet Wallace ’15 remember Bosco being with Mr. Spears. “He was always so happy and loving to everyone,” he said. Jack English ’13 added, “Bosco was a caring and loved member of the STC community and will forever be a Saint.” Being their first dog, Mr. Spears and his family will deeply miss Bosco at home and at school. “He helped dozens of upset and anxious boys through the years in my office, coming off his leash to help boys in emotional need, often doing much more than I could to help them,” said Mr. Spears. From receiving the help upon being rescued from the SPCA as a 5 year old in 2004, Bosco went on to be the helper in his later years in the Middle School: family to the Spears, and friend to us all. I once received a chain-forwarded email from my grandmother that I was reluctant to look at, but family is family and did so anyway. What I read was this advice: everyone should enjoy the little things in life, maybe stick your head out the window occasionally and let your tongue flap in the wind, or roll around in the grass just because you can.

Diversity Day Dialogue As I hopped on the van with Mr. Turner to go to the University of Richmond, I honestly had no idea what I was getting myself into. As it was my first time attending Diversity Dialogue Day, put on by the Virginia Center for Inclusive Communities, I was rather nervous about being thrown into a room with a bunch of random people and talking about very personal and serious issues. Swayne Martin ’15, Tanner Wagner ’15, Trey Romig ’14, Rodney Williams ’13 and I were the Saints in attendance. Rodney quickly found St. Catherine’s table, and we made ourselves at home. We learned about gender stereotyping and the effects it has on kids. As the group collectively became more comfortable, we broke into small groups. In these small groups, we discussed the issue of gender stereotyping in more depth, and heard personal accounts from members in our group who had been affected by such stereotypes. As the day drew

to a close, we ended up back in our original groups. Tasked with forming an action plan that helps educate and reduce the harmful effects of gender stereotyping, we quickly set to work devising a plan that we hope to begin implementing as we usher in the new year. All in all, this event opened my eyes to all of the issues students from around Richmond collectively face, and no matter how different our ethnic or financial backgrounds may be, many of us suffer from the same problems. I walked out of Diversity Dialogue Day feeling very unified with everybody in the room, as we all felt we shared a common purpose in working towards a better environment for every student population. I had a great time at this event, and I encourage people to sign up for these conferences, as they open your eyes to important issues facing adolescents today, and no matter how different we all may seem, we can be united in recognizing and rectifying problems that affect us all. -- Alec Ball ’14

The Pine Needle [ X-Block Gets Artsy

By Ned Roberts Senior Contributor

According to artist Mr. Claiborne Gregory there was no such thing as an art program when he attended St. Christopher’s. Mr. Gregory, St. Christopher’s class of ’68, is a renowned artist with his work on display in many historical places such as the State Capital of Virginia. When Mr. Gregory came back to St. Christopher’s Nov. 15 for the opening of his art exhibit in the Luck Leadership Center, he was shocked at the current fine arts programs that St. Christopher’s now offers. His goal for the art exhibit on display is to get the students more interested and involved in the arts.

Senior Contributor

You have no idea how short your time here is. You may think you do, but trust me, you don't. Right now, you're counting up your days spent in high school. We, the seniors, are counting down. Almost all of us have already come to a horrible realization: We are running out of time. Fast. Every service we sit through, every event we attend, and every game we go to, is our last. We will never go to another Homecoming dance. We will never have another pep rally. We are running out of Collegiate games and championship opportunities. I don't expect any of you to really understand and believe what I'm saying. I certainly wouldn't have when I was in your position. But maybe I'll get through to one person. You may not know it yet, but this place has given its heart and its soul to you.

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No matter what it is, Mr. Gregory wants students to take advantage of the arts programs that exist today. The expo showcased not only Mr. Gregory’s artwork, but also students’. Abe Barksdale, Saunders Ruffin and John Szymendera had some original pieces on display while a class digital video project ran on the big screen in the loud library. The Jazz Band jammed in Cafe 2010, with Mr. Winn inviting band members to stand up and give solos. During the Jazz Band concert, Mr. Winn addressed the importance of risk. “Just like life, art is only worthwhile if you take chances.” A similar event is planned for the Middle School and Lower School this spring.

A Senior Year Reflection By Swain Molster

December 2012

And yes, I know that everyone tells you that. I hated being told that. But they aren't just saying that to try to humble you. It's the truth. This school will give you everything. All you have to do is ask for it. The sooner you realize that, the better. What we're doing is trying to give a little back before we're gone for good. We could use some help, though. Please, this year, buy in. Come to events like Casino Night. Come to all the games. Come to the plays. Work hard. Join a club. Start a club if you want to. I promise you, it will be worth your time. Next year, you won't remember that time you spent your Saturday afternoon sitting at home or just driving around. But I guarantee you'll remember screaming your lungs out at Sports Backers Stadium. We want you to have as much fun as we've had. But we can't make that happen without a little help from your end. So, if you won't come out for yourself, come out for us. No matter what the outcome is, I promise it will be worth your while. Thanks for taking the time to read this. I really do appreciate it.

Reporter’s Notebook:

Saints Give Back with $100 for 100 By John Tyson Sophomore Contributor

With more than 50 participants and a parallel group beginning at Collegiate, the $100 for 100 Program has reached an ultimate high this year. I have been with the group more or less since the beginning. How much I actually helped in seventh and eighth grade is debatable, but, regardless, I have been able to see it evolve to where it is today. For those who don’t know, the mission of the group is to raise $100 for 100 underprivileged children in our community to give to them to spend at Dick’s Sporting Goods anticipating Christmas. Back when the group began in 2009, my brother, Landrum Tyson ’12, and a few friends were the only members, The group has had a profound effect on me and my friends. On the day of the event, we get to give the children their $100 and also walk around and shop with them. When we do this, I have realized a number of things. For one, it has reminded me

how privileged we are to be at a place like St. Christopher’s. I know that it sounds cliche, but as we see these kids come in with the money they have been given, they are so thankful for the simplest things to us, such as a new pair of shoes or a new ball. Even more so, many of these kids will spend some of their money on gifts for their siblings, not themselves. Many of the kids just enjoy being able to spend time with us more than anything else. Much like one of the goals of a program like Saturday Academy, we love to build any kind of relationship with these kids, and these are often some of the same kids we see in places like Saturday Academy and Anna Julia Cooper School which St. Christopher’s also supports. This “miniature Christmas” only helps us reinforce the bridges and friendships all such organizations hope to build. “I had no idea how many kids in our community are in such need until I started helping with the project,” said Thomas Cottrell ’15. Groups like the Boys and

Girls Clubs of Virginia, Anna Julia Cooper School, the Peter Paul Development Center, and many more contribute nominations to the project. Upon their submission, we all read through the information and decide which stories we believe to be the most deserving of help. The backgrounds that these children come from are unlike what most of us have been exposed to. Stories of kids with single mothers supporting multiple children or parents in jail are far too abundant. The stories are touching and it only makes being able to help them that much better. “The great thing I’ve found about this project is you get to see the full circle of fundraising,” said Churchill Young ’13. “[You] raise the money, talk to organizations, and you get to meet the kids and see how happy they are.” With the spirit of Thanksgiving passed and Christmas rapidly approaching, I encourage everyone to embrace the opportunities presented to us, realize all we have been given, and help someone out just because we can.

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Chicago, from A1

said. Chicago, a relatively new musical first released in the ’70s centers around alcohol, adultery, and assassination in prohibition-era Chicago. The main characters are a group of women in jail awaiting trials for the murders of their lovers or spouses. With lines such as “They had it coming...” and “...if you’re good to mama; mama’s good to you...,” the play portrays the ’20s with all of its raunchy, illicit behavior with short hair, short skirts and short tempers. Roxy, the blonde 20-something who is the main focus, uses every trick she can- even faking a pregnancy-- to try and avoid her fate as a murderer. Instead of trying to skirt the limelight though, she embraces it with line such as “I’m gonna be a celebrity, that means somebody everyone knows. They’re gonna recognize my eyes, my hair, my teeth, my boobs, my nose...” Maury said that the dancers were the real proponents behind choosing Chicago. They were avid about the dancing in this production. Maury has been trying to add emphasis to

December 2012

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The Pine Needle

the musical aspect of theater. The school has even hired a dance choreographer to help with the intense dance numbers they attempt. One of the first things Maury and Ampersand did was look at the the play in the context of our schools. The costumes were toned down and any act of sex was implied. He also mentioned that the over-the-topness downplays the edgy themes of murder and sex. “This is just about theater,” he said. “Good music. Good voices. Good dancing. Maybe you are skirting the edge of what is acceptable for high school girls to be doing. But that is where I think theater has its place at times.” Beyond that, Ampersand said in all advertisements and promotions that parental discretion should be used when bringing young children to the show due to its mature content and themes. He believes what they portrayed could be broadcast on network television. He said that is something he always asks himself before taking on a show. While this was not “an afternoon for kids,” he said, it could definitely be shown on prime time. And I agree. This play was

good for the Saints community. While it seems to go against every moral reverberating around the red-brick buildings of St. Catherine’s, in reality it epitomizes the coming of age into an unusual and frightening adult world. As teenagers, many views and ideas are thrust upon our naive and unprepared minds. Part of the school’s mission is to prepare students for college as well as the larger world, and plays such as this, tasteful yet provocative, allow high schoolers to experience all of the drama and repercussions safely. At the end of our interview, Maury left me with a perfect distillation of why this play, and others like it, should be put on in McVey: “In theater, portraying something does not mean that you support it always. In fact, sometimes you portray things you don’t support, as a way of generating conversation about them,”

Maury always tries to bring variety to the shows throughout the year. “If one is particularly comedic or dramatic or violent, then I try and counterbalance the other two shows, or even next year’s productions, with it.”

Our Music Program is Appreciated Dear Misters Vick and Brata, I wanted to take this opportinty to write you from half way around the world to express my gratitude for you and your service to the St. Christopher’s music program. I would assert that you two have the most difficult job in education: inspiring students--young men, no less--to develop an appreciation for music and the arts, outside of a curriculum stressing the importance of academic excellence and athletic prowess. I am fortunate enough to have shared in your efforts as a student and am still more fortunate to have the opportunity to write you from the London School of Economics, listening live to Lessons and Carols. You both perform a thankless yet meaningful task in educating boys for life, and I wanted to express my appreciation for your toils and troubles which have made those your students better men and citizens and those their audience blessed. Thank you for riding us to not only show up and participate but also to do so to the extent or excellence. My fondest memories of St. Christopher’s spring out of the sense of community instilled in and out of the classroom. On a personal level, I firmly believe that music, and your facilitation, leadership, and inspiration, taught me more about myself and others than I can even imagine. Music is an expression of self, a stress-relief, and a service to those around us, fortunate and less fortunate than ourselves. As I mentioned to my brother before this afternoon, cherish this moment, because it’s difficult to return to. If ever you doubt yourself and your efforts at St. Christopher’s--fighting sports, girls, and schoolwork for time--I would remind you that your efforts are not for naught. On behalf of my classmates, your audience, and myself, thank you for the gift of music. Sincerely, Hunter Brown St. Christopher’s School Class of 2010

The Back Page

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December 2012

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EXAMS CANCELLED DUE TO APOCALYPSE

The End of the World at St. Chris Signs of the Apocalypse

1. Entire freshman class will become homeless due to the closing of the student lounge. 2. The cafeteria will start to smell bad...Oh wait. 3. Cafeteria will replace orange hi-c with pink lemonade. 4. Juniors start showing up to crossing guard duty. 5. English exams will be quick and easy. 6. Students will start calling the library “the memorial Library.” 7. Spectators will show up to swimming and diving meets. 8. Sra. varner will use english in the classroom. 9. Mr. johns will not make a chapel announcement. 10. Middle schooler finishes “once in royal david city” without a voice crack.

Saints Bucket List

’Twas the Week Before Christmas by: Peyton McElroy ’Twas the week before Christmas, when all through the school

1. mr. Wood-- Read and mark “Wuthering Heights” twice more.

Not a student was playing, not even a fool. The pencils were sharpened by the boys with care, In hopes that their exams would not be a bear.

The teachers were seated, their hearts filled with glee, And eyes sparkling bright like Christmas lights on a tree.

2. mr. Miller-- Perfect rendition of “Somewhere Over the Rainbow.”

Now that a long semester has come to its end, They will quickly discover the ones to commend.

With rustle of papers and last minute review, We uneasily prepare for what will ensue. And so begins three hours of terrible pain.

3. mr. Carlson-- Become billionaire genius playboy philanthropist.

These exams are enough to drive me insane.

Sweaty palms and tired eyes can be seen in the room, Betraying those facing their inevitable doom. No visions of sugar-plums danced in our heads But thoughts of math and English took their place instead.

4. dallas tarkenton-- Win a facebook fight.

And what to my wandering mind should appear But all of people that I have studied this year. Now! Shakespeare, Now! Milton, Now! Lincoln and Monroe, On! Newton, on! Euclid, On! Einstein and Thoreau

To the front of my brain! To the top of the page!

5. mr. mcguire-- Survive.

Now Write Away! Write away! Write in a rage! All your help is needed as I run out of time. The clock is a-ticking, and I must beat its chime.

Once the terrible ordeal finally concludes, The students say “Thank you,” trying not to be rude. And the one consolation for a failed exam: It won’t matter; the world will soon end with a BAM!