The Vedette - September 2010

TheVedette

Volume 114, Issue #1

“I may not agree with what you say, but I will defend to the death your right to say it.”

-Voltaire

In This Issue...

Bad Eggs Oil Spill

Orientation

What is Home?

Top 5 in Culver Sports

WEg Preview

STUDENT VOICE OF THE CULVER ACADEMIES FOR OVER A CENTURY

September 2010

a note from your

editors Dear Culver,

At the date of publication, the class of 2014 has 1,354 days until graduation. We, your wonderful editors, have calculated (using highly advanced techniques) that new students have about 6.4 days until this place feels like home, 752 days until you get homesick for Culver during breaks, and 1,238 days until you’ll tear up at the thought of leaving this campus to make a new home for yourself in college. You’ll go your separate ways and the process will start again.

This gives most of you time to treat this place just like your real home. (Note: Do not leave garments on lamps as you might be used to at home. You don’t want to turn your dorm or barrack into a crispy pile of ashes. Cough cough, Band...) Treat everyone here like your brothers and sisters in the hopes that it will be that much more painful when you have to leave. Savor your time here. Even when graduation is years away. Check that, especially when graduation is years away.

At times you will resent the rules and restrictions, but that too bonds us together. Enjoy yourselve but be respectful: we old students are welcoming you into a place that we’ve made our home.

Invite teachers to your athletic events, depend on your counselors, make Culver a place you will always want to come back to. The Vedette is here for you: to write intelligently, to rant, to discuss, to pontificate, to express yourself however you need to. The Vedette would like to officially welcome you to Culver, our home, now please take off your mud-covered shoes because you’re dirtying the rug we just vacuumed.

Your Editors, Clancy and Laura 2

the Vedette s t a f f, SEPTEMBER : Editors-in-Chief: Laura Freymiller and Clancy Tripp Layout: Laura Freymiller, Yen-Yen Gao, Cricket Gullickson, Jake Kang, Clancy Tripp, Editors: Jordan Berger, Anna-Christina Betehktin, Sharon Chen, Boosik Choi, Laura Freymiller, Yen-Yen Gao, Tenley Gillett, Cricket Gullickson, Ji Hu Kim, Claire Lee, Madeleine Loney, Skyler Strycker, Clancy Tripp, Nancy Wu Writers: Jordan Berger, Anna-Christina Betehktin, Andrea Canacci, Sharon Chen, Boosik Choi, Steve Choi, Carina Conti, Deanna Dilts, John Van Duyn, Laura Freymiller, Yen-Yen Gao, Cricket Gullickson, Jake Kang, Ji Hu Kim, Kevin Kim, Shaughnessy Lindquist, Mary McKinnis, Michelle Molner, Kirstyn Petras, Janet Sanaxinay, Erika Teahan, Clancy Tripp, Molly Walker, Nancy Wu Photographers: Jordan Berger, Anna-Christina Betekhtin, Carina Conti, Alex Ding, Elaina Engelhard, Laura Freymiller, Yen-Yen Gao, Claire Lee, Madeleine Loney, Hannah Smith, Benjamin Turner, Ching-Yi Wang, Huiyu Zhang

about us: The Vedette is the student-run newspaper of the Culver Academies which seeks to provide a campuswide forum for discussion.

The goal of The Vedette is to facilitate open and honest discussions between students, faculty, and administration, and to inform its readers of campus, local, and world news. We are open to letters, ideas for articles, photos, cartoons, and other contributions; if you have contructive criticism, please contact us. Campus papers are only as good as their contributors and we know you have something to say.

Opinions expressed in The Vedette do not reflect the opinions of The Vedette staff, and their publication does not in any way imply an endorsement of these opinions by this magazine.

Vol. 114 Issue #1

News

September 2010

The Oil Spill: A Sticky Situation

As any true Georgian would, I define myself as a proud Southerner. I eat fried chicken, drink as much freshly squeezed lemonade as I can get my hands on, and find myself speaking with a slight southern twang when I talk to friends from home. I shop weekly at Publix, and refuse on principle to buy Pepsi. It’s hard sometimes to live in the Culver Bubble when it’s so extremely different from the town in which I grew up. Because of that, I try as often as possible, to escape the omnipresent bubble by following local news. Often I read about sports teams who’ve made it to state, or political scandals, which are surprisingly relevant to my life. Lately though, I’ve been reading a lot about the effects of the oil spill offin the Gulf Coast.

For those who haven’t been following the news, one of BP’s deepwater oil rigs, Deepwater Horizon, exploded just fifty miles off the coast of Louisiana on the morning of April 20, 2010.

On that day, fifteen crew members were reported missing. Just six days later, search parties for those crew members were suspended, and scientists and environmentalists alike began to realize just how serious the spill truly was. On April 30, at the urging of his advisors, President Obama put a halt to all offshore drilling along the United States coastline. The month of May was filled with high tensions, as several containment and cleanup plans failed. Blame was spread and three companies- BP, Transocean, and Halliburton, - appeared at congressional hearings. Each company admitted that there were many factors involved in the explosion, and eachall shared had at least some responsibility.

In June, Tony Hayward, the CEO of BP, exclaimed, “I’d like my life back.” Over the next few weeks, BP’s stock prices plummeted a total of 17%.

This had major global economic con-

sequences, and everyone nervously watched the stock market. After this, Hayward officially stepped down as leader of the oil spill relief project to be replaced by Robert Dudley. Several failed attempts to use containment caps on the rig proved pointless, but, on July 13, a tightly fitting containment cap was placed on the final gap

The oil spill in May has had many long lasting effects, some of which have not even been discovered yet. in the well. Finally on July 18, 2010, 87 days after the explosion, the oil leak was stopped. 2.5 million barrels of oil had been spewing into the ocean each day, and over $10 billion will be used towards cleanup.

The sheer magnitude of the impact of this spill surprised me. It has affected companies like Shell, who reported a loss of $56 million due to the moratorium on offshore drilling. It has affected the national government’s policies on all types of oil drilling. Perhaps most importantly to me, though, it has affected communities throughout the entire Southeast. Restaurants have gone out of business because they can no longer safely fish in the coast. En-

tire towns, whose economies depended on tourism, have seen major declines in their revenues. Environmental activists have dedicated all their time and effort to help with cleanup, while their expertise could have been used elsewhere.

All of this could have been prevented, but now is not the time to point fingers.

Now is the time to understand what went wrong, and focus on how we, as both individuals and a country, can work to prevent future environmental catastrophes.

First, I think it is important to appreciate the natural beauty around us. If we cannot truly value our fortune in living on such a beautiful campus, we will be hard pressed to find motivation for preserving the environment. Next, we should consider our impact on the environment. Do we really need to drive the half mile to our friend’s house, or can we walk? Do we need to throw away our old papers, or can we recycle? In the end, this whole planet is our home, and it should define us on a more comprehensive and lasting level than any region or country should.

So, now I urge you now to think about how you will chose to define the world you live in.

-Molly Walker ‘12

“Now is not the time to point fingers. Now is the time to understand what went wrong”

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S e p t em b e r 2 0 1 0

Home Again? “The End” in Iraq

Nine years. A lot can happen in nine years: presidents come and go, marriages are formed and broken, babies are born, lives end, and millions of students graduate and attend college (hopefully). In nine years many things change.

I think you all know where I’m going with this. Nine years ago on the eleventh of September everything shifted. Millions of alternate futures were blown out of existence. Suddenly words like “al Qaeda, Saddam, WMD” and then later “Afghanistan, Iran, nuclear weaponry” began to seep into the subconscious.

In some ways we grew closer together. Patriotism and unity sprang up overnight… but so did other uglier emotions: fear, intolerance, and divisiveness. Years of war and thousands of deaths tend to create bad blood. (According to Al-Jezeera and Deutsche Welle the latest statistics show 4,400 U.S. soldiers and 100,000 Iraqi civilians died. This does not include those injured.)

I am not here to ask whether this war was justified or not; as others have stated that will be left to his-

tory. What I wish to discuss is what will happen now.? Although many soldiers will be coming home, 50,000 will still be posted as advisors in Iraq not to mention the 60,000 troops currently deployed or being deployed in Afghanistan. It’s clear that we are not out of the woods yet. President Obama recognized this fact: “There's still a lot of work that we've got to do to make sure that Iraq is an effective partner with us,” he said in his Oval Office address.

So what kind of world will the Iraqi people have now? Violence will of course continue. The future of the national government is still cloudy.

Electricity is still a problem for many.

The truth is for the Iraqis the mission is far from over. It may take another decade or even longer for Iraq to stabilize.

As for the veterans returning home, what face will America offer them?

This time around support of the soldiers has been strong even if support of the war has not. President Obama made sure to thank the American troops and their families for making the ultimate sacrifice. However, veter-

NEWS

ans of the Iraq War will still be faced with the challenge of re-adjustment.

With the economy still ailing. finding jobs may be difficult. Let us hope, though, that the principles these men and women have not disappeared.

Nine years. Much has happened in these past nine years, and now with the official ending of the “Combat Mission in Iraq” many troops will be coming home. Let us hope that these next nine years see a renewal of faith in diplomacy and peace.

Laura Freymiller ‘11

U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Kenneth Toole www.army.mil

O Senate, Senate, Wherefore Art Thou The recent massive recall of over the conditions the chickens are raised in.

Senate?

550 million eggs can only be deCongressional representatives like scribed as a wake-up call for the Senate to pass the F.D.A.’s (Food and Drug Administration) proposed Food Safety Modernization Act (S. 510).

This failure to accurately respond to the crisis or to prevent it in the first place left about 1,500 people sick and this recent recall is only one of many.

The contamination of the eggs with Salmonella (full name Salmonella enteriditis) was traced back to two huge farms in Iowa, but the F.D.A. has been detailing lax constraints on

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Knock Knock Who’s there?

Not. Not who?

Not the Senate and the FDA.

Representative Bart Stupak of Michigan have been the driving force behind reforms that are so crucial to our health.

He calls for increased inspections and more stringent rules, all to keep usp safe.

Recalls seem to be in the news so often these days, which may be the crux of this issue. Recalls in the news don’t hit home with us and they certainly don’t move through our government as quickly as they need to. The F.D.A. has proposed its measures, U.S. Government, get on it.

- Clancy Tripp ‘11

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N EWS

September 2010

The 35th Auburn-CordDuesenberg

On Tuesday, August 31, and Wednesday, September, 1, our campus was graced by the presence of classical cars unseen since 1976. They included 1934 Auburn Phaetons and quite a few Auburn Superchargeds.

On Tuesday the cars were at the Naval Building and I had the opportunity to visit them.

At first, I was overwhelmed by the beauty and pristine conditions of these cars. Some of the cars were over 80 years old, but amazingly, they are still in perfect working order, shining as brightly as they did on the day they were made. There were quite a lot of townspeople at the show, from elderly couples to families with children. Everyone seemed to be enjoying the show, even the two dogs that showed up.

I walked around all the cars, snapping pictures like crazy. Some people were getting into talks about technical stuff: what type of engines these cars had etc. This went way over my head. I nodded and looked interested, then walked on. I love cars and all, but I only care about how exterior looks. One day I plan on collecting cool cars, from Bugattis to Lotuses, and I hope to add some classical Auburn-Cord-Duesenbergs to the collection too; this car show was the perfect opportunity to view some cars I might own in the future.

Even if someone doesn’t have an interest in cars, they still would have enjoyed the car show. Out of the generosity of the Auburn-Cord-Duesenberg Society, I, and many other students, were able to view these cars we might otherwise have never seen. I hope everyone that had an opportunity to visit the car show took advantage of it and that the Society will visit again in the future

-Zixuan (Yen Yen) Gao ‘14

Some of the many beauties that graced our campus.

The CGA Drill Team proudly posing after their victory.

History in the Making: CGA Drill Team Drill Team is one of two honor organizations for the Culver Girls Academy. Founded in 1999, girls must maintain good academic standing and citizenship in order to be a part of the Team. Each year, Drill Team performs during parents and alumni weekends, Relay for Life, and in a Tattoo at the Sears Center in Chicago.

This year, though, Drill Tteam was invited to participate in the 13th Annual Monterey Days Parade on September 4th.

Drill Team Commander Katie Taylor and Executive Officer Mariah Schroeder led a group of eight girls in the Parade. The girls marched and performed various tricks with their rifles.

For their flawless performance and hard work, the CGA Drill Team won 1st place in the category of Best Walking Unit. This win was a first in CGA Drill Team history. Fueled by this unexpected victory, CGA Drill Team hopes to participate in more competitions that will help them develop and sharpen their skills. GO CGA DRILL!!!!!

-Erika Teahan ‘12

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Car show pictures courtesy of YenYen Gao ‘14 and Elaina Engelhard ‘13

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Features Livin’ It Up Lounge Style I walk into the lounge and am greeted by the scent of Ramen noodles, Easy Mac, and Mountain Dew. The volume on the TV is turned up all the way, and the latest argument on Jersey Shore is playing out on screen. Some kids are playing poker at a table in the corner, using beef jerky as chips. Instantly, I feel at home.

There’s nothing like walking into the lounge after a long day of classes and athletics.

For most people, Culver is the first experience they’ve ever had with responsibility. They have to remember to clean their room, do their homework, march in the hallways (boys only), and be dressed in the correct uniforms. There are no parents there to remind you, or help you through hard times.

Your friends become your family, and in the lounge you truly get the opportunity to get to know them.

Even the most military cadets on campus can loosen up in the lounge and be themselves. People unbutton their dress shirts, untie their shoes, and relax in a chair, and they’re reborn. Also, for those suffering from homesickness, the lounge gives you the opportunity to feel like you are back in the TV room at home. You can crack jokes without ending every sentence with “sir”, and watch all your favorite shows.

The food scene is like an underground market, with kids trading instant Ramen for shoe shine or iced tea for an extra belt buckle. Microwaveable food gives you a (possibly)

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September 2010

What is Home to You? “I would have to say tennis or the tennis courts. That’s my home.”

– Kevin Park “To me, home is when my whole family watches movies and eats popcorn and laughs together.”

– Morgan Garrison

healthier alternative to the food in the dining hall. Conversation Lounge Life: Fascinating Stuff and music flows, and debates 24/7 fill the room like an ancient Greek bath-house. And the best part is people care about the lounge. They do their best to keep it clean, from wiping down the inside of the microwaves to sweeping the floors Culver Guidebook’s 3 Faand couches. Sometimes, we even pool our food together, vorite Things to Do in the especially during a game or if somebody ordered Papa’s. Lounge (And People usually pay more for a what we really do): slice of somebody else’s pizza than they would pay for a 1. Watch T.V. whole one themselves. (argue over The one thing people seem to who gets the miss the most is video games. remote) Call of Duty tournaments run long into the night, and Saturday mornings are spent playing 2. Sleep (mess with people FIFA 2010. Officers haul out their XBOXes or PlayStations who are sleeping) and everybody wants in. The lounge is a much-need relaxation spot for students of all 3. Do Homeages. It’s the social area in ev- work (Procrastinate) ery dorm and barrack, a place where greasy food and good friends are the norm. Lounges are as much of an integral part of Culver as the marching, the uniforms, or the daily inspections.

John Van Duyn ‘14

“My house, my T.V., my comfy brown suede couch, my re-runs of Jersey Shore, Culver reg. rec., and Corky e-mails that I ignore….JK.” – Leah Reynolds “Home is where the heart lies. Home is where I’ve been my whole life and have grown up in the same place. Home changes as you do. At first it looks so big because you’re so small, but eventually it gets smaller as you get bigger, funny how that happens.

Our home is full of openness and love and faces and spaces and commotions and emotions. Home is where I shall forever return.”

– Jason Barron “Home is a place to relax, be myself and spend time with my family around a bonfire.”

– Melissa Paluch “Home is where I can have holes in my socks and no one makes comments!”

– Anna- Christina “Home is…across the lake where my family and dogs are right now.”

– Kacie Hermanson “Nerd camp is home.”

– Alex Ding “ALEX DING IS HOME” -Carina Conti ...Cont. on next page

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F EAT U R E S

September 2010

Brand New Battery

Home Cont. from page 6

“A place where there are people that love and support me.”

– Ximena Garcia “Culver of course!”

-Torrie Christlieb “Home is a place where my brother, Ryan, idolizes me 24/7.”

– Saralena Barry - Andrea Cannaci ’11 and Carina Conti ‘12

Austin Welch standing in front of a battery truck as they begin the Artillery Commander’s Charge

A CGA Welcome “WAKE UP!” screamed my mom on August 20, 2010. I was full of excitement and fear as I drove to Culver to begin orientation week. I did not know what to expect and I did not know whether I was ready to live away from home yet or not.

At home I always knew what to expect, but I had no idea what dorm life had in store for me.

The transition to Culver was easy, because it began with orientation week. Excited to meet the other girls in my dorm, I unpacked and was greeted by the many different faces.

Later in the afternoon, my “CGA Big Sisters,” Rebecca Nash and Dani Krou, came in to answer my many questions and

bring gifts. During my first dinner in the Dining Hall I was joined by the girls of my dorm, this eased much of my fears of not being able to fit in.

My first night I walked around shyly and clung to my brother’s side.

When he told me that he had to go inside to help the new cadets, I felt lost and alone. Before long, I was warmly welcomed into a group of girls.

The next days were filled with workshops, learning, bonding, games, and fun! One of the highlights of the weekend (in my opinion) was spending time at Woodcraft with the other new girls from my dorm and the leaders and through the activities I also found out I too have leadership potential.

The block party on Saturday night was a great way to meet new people, while our dorm party, which included a bonfire and watching Peter Pan, allowed me to bond with the girls in my dorm.

When matriculation came I have to admit I was afraid!

What would happen if I fell with so many important people watching? Despite my worries, I am happy to report that matriculation was a success!

It was very exciting to hear the speeches coming from the highest ranked seniors and to picture what it must have been like to be a new cadet rescuing the people of Logansport.

I know that my journey at Culver has only just begun!

I cannot wait for the cresting ceremony to show that I am officially a part of CGA. - Jordan Berger ‘14

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The artillery battalion, Battery, started the year with an unprecedented ceremony that captured the attention of Culver students and faculty. The Artillery Commander’s Charge was begun

by Artillery Battalion Commander Austin Welch in order to encourage pride and foster recognition for the artillery battalion.

The ceremony was performed on August 18th, after the new cadets’ orientation. Leaders of each artillery unit launched cannons on the lakefront to execute the ceremony. Upon arriving at the lakefront, new cadets faced military machines that they had never seen before. Unit commanders rode in a truck, foreshadowing the main transportation means of Battery.

Sergeant Major Rankert, the artillery military mentor, concluded that this was an important time to initiate new traditions and to reflect upon the history of Battery.

The climax of the ceremony was the firing of the cannons by unit leaders of Battery A, Battery B, and Battery C, which were UC David Devries, UC John Ellis, and UC Grant Holler, respectively. The firing of these cannons, reaffirmed the role and identity of the Artillery Battalion to both old and new members of Battery.

Austin Welch, who helped plan and lead the ceremony, said, “The Artillery Commander’s Charging really started the year off with a bang. It was exciting for all of our new cadets and everyone else who came out to see what the artillery is all about. We are looking forward to showing everyone that we really are the best. Go Artillery!”

Boasting a total of 166 students, Battery is the biggest barrack at Culver.

The Artillery Commander’s Charge inspired and reaffirmed the spirits of those 166 young men. Moreover it instilled pride in the artillery cadets and bonded them together as never before.

- Boosik Choi ‘12

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September 2010

F EAT U R E S

Home Away From Home

When you first step onto campus, you might gawk at boys walking by in formation, duck and take cover when the cannon sounds, or be chased down to the lake by a mob of angry seniors after you accidentally… stepped on some grass.

By this point, you’re thinking, “What did I do

to my parents, and why did they send me away?” … or you may just be crying for your mother.

Well, have no fear!

Here, at your very service, is the insight and wisdom of veterans who have been through the ropes countless times.

But I must warn you: use this knowledge wisely…

If you want to eat, always beat the boys to breakfast. Memorize the Papa’s number.

- Alyssa Weeks, ‘11 If you’re a new cadet and you care about passing boards earlier rather than later, STAY AWAY FROM GIRLS! They take up all your time!

- Michael Muldoon ‘12 Don’t walk around in towels on Alumni Weekend.

- Maddie Loney ‘11 Help prevent dorm fires; if there’s a cord to it, it doesn’t go on the stove.

- Rachel Detamore ’12 A.K.A. Smokey the Bear Avoid milk in cartons.

-Kley Reynolds ‘11

Culver kids fight off home-sickness by cheering on the Eagles to victory

Hopefully you take this wise advice into account the next time Culver makes you want to dip yourself in a vat of acid.

It’s completely unnecessary, and I’m sure the custodians would not appreciate cleaning up after your mess. You’ll survive the years to come, I promise.

Michelle Molner ‘12

Beat Those Home-Sickness Blues 1. Keep yourself busy: Join a club or committee. Make plans with your friends and STAY OUT OF YOUR ROOM! Or at least try to avoid staying alone in your room. The busier you are the less time there is for you to think of home.

2. Stay clean: Try to main-

tain good health habits, because when you are sick you usually think of home and mom’s home cooked soup. So wash your hands, do your laundry, and always bathe.

3. Minimize phone calls: Try to not call home every day because the more you talk to the people back home the harder it is for

you to adjust. However, you should still call home at least once a week, so your parents are up to date as to what you are doing.

4. Surround yourself with your friends and be social: They will keep you occupied, and will get your mind off of home. Make plans to watch a

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movie, go to town, play outside etc. Get out of your room and be active, because surrounding yourself with people will make you happy and think less about home.

Best of luck to all of you!

- Erika Teahan ‘12 and Janet Sananixay ‘13

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Opinions Post-Grad: Looking Good

September 2010

cannot remember a single exciting Friday night in my Culver career, but I guess that’s the beauty of Culver.

Freshman year you’re thrilled to be here, sophomore year you abhor being the awkward middle child, junior year you begin to contract senioritis early, and senior year you’ll tell everyone you can’t wait to get out of here.

Maybe you think you do, but I know it’s hitting all of us. There are moments when we can’t imagine being anywhere but Culver and we’re afraid we’re wasting our last year here. There are days when we

In 266 painful days from now I will be leaving my home for the past few years and I’m pretty sure I’ll miss it like nothing I’ve ever missed before. Don’t let that nostalgic first line confuse you; occasionally I’ve truly hated it here, like every normal highschool student. We’ve all had days of complete frustration but in my senior year (old age) I can only remember the great times.

I remember Fat Days which occur annually after CQ and consist of my friends and me shoving pillows into Reg. Rec. uni-suits and dog-pileattacking members of our dorms. I remember a fish funeral we had for Pamplemouse (who I always thought was named Papa Moose) who froze to death after being left too close to the window. We were clothed in black and the song Colorblind somberly played in the background as we fakecried and continued our procession to the first floor bathroom toilets.

I remember one exciting Friday night when…ok, well that’s a lie. I

“Fat Days” with the seniors in Atrium

resent being the only eighteen-yearolds we know who have a specific and required location for each piece of neatly folded clothing. Yes, we all get tired of the rules but I’m sure that come June we’d all give anything for just one more week here.

My roommate and I count down the number of days left on a calendar with obscenely happy smiley faces.

Right now we’re in the 200’s and we eagerly anticipate counting those days down but we know that when we break the double digits we’ll start to dread. When I go to college I know that Culver will serve as an excellent anecdote, for example the time I got a D.C. for excessive tickling. Ok, it was during CQ, it was loud tickling, and it was not the first time it had happened, but still! I’ll attend a college where the internet doesn’t go out, I’m not surrounded by cornfields, and I’ll clean the baseboards if I so choose, but when I leave these brick buildings and the seniors of 2011 I’m going to miss this place like hell.

- Clancy Tripp ’11

The Time Has Come

After three years of Culver, after braving through three winters, three AP classes, and three graduations, I now grant myself the divine privilege of reflecting. And what, pray tell, am I going to use as my tool, my example, my template? I’m going to use the Odyssey, of course.

Ok, so here we have the Odyssey.

Everyone is groaning, “Not the Odyssey again.” Yes, the Odyssey. Always the Odyssey. What is the point of this massive tear-inducing tome? It wouldn’t even have been written if Odysseus had simply stayed home, right? Exactly.

Seniors, we’ve finally made it. Here we are almost to the end of all things.

And for some of us this is insanely scary.

Culver has been our home for three or

two or however many years. Whether we want to admit it or not we’ver gotten used to this place: the familiar sights, the familiar people, and, of course, the unending traditions. It isn’t always pleasant or exciting, but it’s secure, safe, the known world. Next year we will be leaving our comfort zone. You know what I say? It’s about time.

Yep, it’s high time we move on. Time to see what we’re really made of. We’ve been trained and tried and tested so that we will succeed somewhere else.

This is our leap out into the great unknown. We have to make it whether we are tossed kicking and flailing or jump out of our own accord. This should be an exciting time in our lives. So while these last eight months begin to slip by pre-

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pare yourselves. Enjoy every moment, be ye men of Culver, but brace yourselves, get excited.

So one more time, back to the Odyssey. Let’s just suppose Odysseus had thought to himself, “You know, this whole fighting the Trojans thing... just doesn’t sound very safe. I’ll just sit this one out. I’ll let the gods deal with it.”

That would be such a boring book, not even the freshmen humanities teachers would want to read it.

So strike out and make something of yourself. Make mistakes, get messy, enjoy being young. If you don’t leave home you won’t grow.

Watch out world. Ready or not, here we come!

-Laura Freymiller ‘11

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September 2010

OPINIONS

Care and Keeping of Microwaves and Young Men

When asked what is Culver, Rebecca Christlieb, age 9, said, “It’s fun.

It’s big. You can do a lot of cool stuff.”

Laura, age 8, offered the additional analysis of “Cool, fantastic- just to say!” Their young cohort, Tommy Kelley, age 4, when asked what he thought of the Culver Academies, specifically CMA, first offered this reporter a wad of lovingly pre-chewed gum, then reconsidered and furiously shaking his head, ran away as fast as he could in the opposite direction. Many young cadets have the same reaction.

After all, Culver’s military system is inherently strict. On being asked why he was scrubbing down the tables in the dining hall, Roubos of Battery C, replied that “I was wearing white socks.” In a separate instance Van de Velde of Company C paradoxically noted “I like the military structure.”

The additional responsibility of being in a military system, the seemingly overwhelming requirements of folding shirts, the intricacies of basic training, properly saluting one’s superior officer, marching both indoors and outdoors, even ‘squaring’, or marching around, corners, are enough to make any young man forget what color socks he is wearing. And indeed, by all accounts life in the barracks is a “bonding experience” with “a s***-load of yelling” as Cislak of ‘B****in’ Battery B put it.

New cadets have “duties to the extreme”, reported Cadets Thomas, Marshall, Zalduendo and Murray of Company B and ‘Squad Bad A**’, which include the care and keeping of microwaves and bathrooms, as well as taking out the trash three times a day, often at the ungodly hour of 6:30 am, on top of duties too numerous to list here. As a result, they note that being generally “chewed out” is a common experience. But, they say, “I feel more like a man!”

New candidates for CMA must continue their military training and knowledge of Culver’s history until they are deemed ready to sit for the Branch Qualification Boards. On passing the board, a combination of an oral interview and exam, a cadet earns his new brass and become an official member, or ‘old man’, of his unit, able to take up full leadership responsibilities in the coming months. Cadets McInemey and Newton, old men of Battery C, elaborated on the benefits of their privileged status- “We feel great to not be doing it [squaring corners] anymore.”

But there is a point to squaring corners and polishing your shoes multiple times a day. Colonel Foersch said that the mission of CMA, through squad and unit drill, and a rigorous military system, was to help young men “find their voice” and “believe in them-

selves”. As boys, they want to be accepted into a group, and the rules and structure of CMA give that to them.

The whole aim of the orientation process is to get them to “believe in their new school, on an individual level; a school, or CMA level; and an Academy level.” He has succeeded; as Jennings of Battery B put it, “I couldn’t think of any better place to be at this time in my life.”

And indeed, most cadets seem to believe that “Culver is a place where I can fully reach my potential. [There are] lots of opportunities to excel in various activities and to make a name for yourself,” said Cadets Salinas and Hamm of Battery C. And it is possible to take advantage of that potential because “the best cadets will do the best” at CMA; the rigorous military training encourages them to do so, says Whippo of Battery C. “I do what I’m supposed to do,” and presumably he stays out of trouble. And what exactly keeps the young men of CMA out of trouble?

Drake, of Band, elaborated; “It’s being part of the core. It’s feeling like brothers”. He sighs, as if no one but a cadet could even begin to understand the bonds that hold the school together,.

“It’s a brotherhood kind of thing.”

- Anna-Christina Betekhtin ‘13

BP Drilling: Sorry, Dory, You Weren’t Hurt Enough

British Petroleum, BP, giant of the oil industry, business that would make a mom and pop’s gas station tremble, spawn of all evil, whatever term suits you, has recently demanded that Congress allow it to receive offshore oil drilling permits, or it will be unable to pay for the cleanup for its oil spill from the explosion of its oil rig on April 20th, 2010.

Let’s reiterate. BP, the company that caused one of America’s worst ecological disasters, threatened Congress, as well as the families

10

The world at risk.

affected by the spill, that it will not be able to give the families compensation or clean up the spill unless it has the opportunity to repeat its mistakes. If you had a “say what?” moment, you aren’t alone.

There is no denying that BP needs money; money for compensation for the families, money for the cleanup, money for its employees so it won’t need to make employment cuts, and money to continue to survive as a company. But, at the same time, we’re ... Cont. on next page

Vol. 114 Issue #1

September2010

OPINIONS

Drilling

Cont. from page 10...

talking about a company that as early as May was attempting to give money to shrimp farmers for lost profits even though the leak had not been stopped.

The leak would continue for about two more months, and the farmers that did receive money early on were forced to accept clauses that would not allow them to receive any more money. BP has been making cuts in important areas for some time before the spill, aka safety on the rigs in order to ensure a leak would not occur. We saw how well that went over.

Businesses need money to thrive; the more money, the more growth, more employees, more products, etc.

However, if Congress were to allow BP to begin offshore drilling once again, then voters should probably be thinking twice about who they’re choosing as their representatives, because Congress would be essentially be ignoring BP’s earlier mistakes.

If BP expects permission to begin offshore drilling, four things should occur. First, there must be an apology.

No, not the kind of apology that a man gave to BP saying President Obama had been “too harsh” on the company.

No, BP executives must give an actual, meaningful apology. Next, government agents should inspect rigs to be used for offshore drilling before drilling can commence and at random times after drilling begins. These inspections must be at unknown times with different agents performing the inspections in order to avoid corruption. Third, BP must invest in alternative energy and set a realistic timeline for ending drilling in the Gulf of Mexico. Fourth, it must honor its promise to start the four year escrow fund for the oil spill cleanup and compensation for those affected by the spill.

Other companies who have respected government regulations concerning safety on rigs should have the right to the oil in the Gulf Coast. BP needs money, a quick, easy way to access it, then to use it in a productive way and find another way to produce it.

The company has lost the respect of millions, and it must begin to pay for the damages it created before being rewarded.

Desperate for Box-Shaped Noodles Dear CVS representatives, In America that becomes consistently more expensive, I have been comfortably reclined in the corner, listening to my iPod and slurping a bowl of chicken flavored Ramen. As national tensions rise, I have pulled my head out of my soup just long enough to note the similarity between prices at CVS and Katy Perry’s “Hot and Cold” song. But in that instant, that small section of time when I was not jamming out and slurping noodles, my world changed. As soon as I saw that flaming red sign advertising “$0.67” above my favorite Ramen flavor, my iPod ran out of battery, my bowl went dry, and my lazyboy lost its cush.

Sixty-seven cents for a packet of Ramen. “So what” you say, “that’s not even a dollar!” Not a dollar, perhaps yes, but pretty darn close; and exactly seventeen cents more than it was when I left Culver last spring. Seventeen cents more for every pack of Ramen, that’s and influx of 34%, which means that for every two packets of Ramen, I could have gotten one for free at the old price.

As a sleepless, devoted, and hungry Culver student, I have taken it upon myself to do a little bit of research on your largest competitors. As it turns out, not only are Park ‘N Shop and the

Table of noodle prices shown at right..STUDY THIS CAREFULLY

bookstore within much closer walking distance, they also advertise Ramen at half the prices of CVS. Specifically, our friendly neighborhood bookstore sells chicken and beef flavors for thirty cents, which makes for savings of 55%.

To top that, Park ‘N Shop wins by a landslide with six different flavors, and sweet deals like seven for $1.00. While exotic flavors like creamy chicken, oriental, shrimp, and roast beef sell for 25 cents, beef and chicken, the two flavors so overpriced at CVS, are only 14 cents (79% less than CVS).

Looking back, I’m not sure what I was doing wasting my allowance at CVS, when all this time, I could have been spending it at Park ‘N Shop. In the world we live in today, of booming prices and hungry scholars, I’m not sure what you’re trying to tell us, CVS. So just in case you’re trying to scare away your customers with outrageous prices, I’d like you to know you’re doing a fine job.

Sincerely, -Carina Conti ’12

Store CVS Park ‘N Shop Bookstore

Price of Ramen $0.67 $0.14 - $0.25 $0.30

The racks of Ramen sitting there seductively... Don’t be fooled!

- Kirstyn Petras ‘11

Vol. 114 Issue #1

11

Sports Goal! CMA Varsity Soccer

September 2010

“To win or lose depends not on your skill or individual ability but on your will and teamwork”. This is one of the main convictions of CMA Varsity Soccer head coach James Brugh and Major Green.

Teamwork is one of the essential values in the Culver Academy and directly relates to the leadership that CMA soccer has been demonstrating throughout their season.

Under the leadership of the two Captains Cameron Dabir and Jose de Jesus Herrera, CMA soccer has really coame

together as a team. Each member of the team wais selected out of the 60 people who tried out during soccer conditioning.

Each member brings their own strengths and weaknesses that need to be improved, both in and out of the game. And now having that they have finished one third of the season, they are looking forward to great success.

So far CMA soccer has done a decent job; they’ve won some and lost some. Their biggest victories so far were in the game against Culver Communi-

ty High School and Boone Grove High School. CMA won the game with Culver Community by 8-0 and Boone Grove by 4-0.

The rain was coming down in torrents It was raining torrentially during the game with C.C but even the pouring rainit couldn’t dampen CMA’s desire for victory. To beat Boone Grove, the CMA team showed team unity and utilized accurate passes.

However, it hasn’t been all victories this season. They

have experienced bitter defeats at the hands of Chesterton and Bishop Noll Institute, but the 2010 season boasts more positive than negative.

The team is showing improvement and getting stronger as a team group each game. As long as they unite as a team during the game, the future of the CMA Varsity Soccer seems bright.

Steve (Gang Woo) Choi‘12

CMA Soccer takes a mean team photo

Co-Captain Jose de Jesus Herrara

Co-Captain Cameron Dabir

The Famous Five The top five moments in the Culver world of sports so far: 1.)

2.)

3.)

4.)

5.)

CGA and CMA Cross Country Come in First at Cranbook CGA Golf Gains Great Glory in Culver Invitational (Third Place) CMA Tennis Takes Top Ranked Munster in Tournament Juwan Jogged past North Judson to Jump Start Their Win WEG unWillingly Awaits -Deanna Dilts ‘11

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New Member of Culver: Schumerth The CGA soccer team welcomes a new member; Coach Chris Schumerth. A graduate of the Academies, Coach Schumerth played soccer, basketball and baseball. He continued his baseball career at Anderson College and is currently living in Culver.

-Deanna Dilts ‘11

Vol. 114 Issue #1

SPORTS

September 2010

Jibe Ho! A Beginner’s Experience September at Culver: the shining sun, soothing breeze, and rippling waves create the perfect condition for adventuring on Lake Maxincuckee.

And so my friend Laura Ma and I spontaneously decided to join the sailing team. We dreamt of taking out our own boats someday and rocking gently amidst the green-blue waves, with our sails white, full, and beautiful; we imagined the cerulean sky behind us, speckled with lazy cumuli; we saw ourselves waving to the antsized people on the shore, and them waving back. However, a sudden rainstorm soon tore our blissful daydreams to shreds.

Ji Hu Kim and her fellow shipmates hoist the sails September 2nd, the day of our third sailing practice: Steady bouts of rain flooded our campus throughout the morning; midday, the tree outside my window twisted and turned in an effort to accommodate the merciless wind; the afternoon, thankfully, brought a precious ray of sunlight, and the rain soon retreated.

The wind, however, made no such retreat- a reality that my friends and I discovered at sailing practice as we struggled to rig our boat, sails and hair whipping wildly around us. We boarded the swaying boat along with a Junior Varsity sailor , and gust after gust, the wind pulled us into open waters with the promise of two exciting hours of sailing.

Just as our vessel was comfortably

Vol. 114 Issue #1

“Lake water began pouring in from the lower side of the vessal... ‘Lean out! Lean out!’ cried our mentor. I snapped into action...” gaining speed, I heard Coach Myers calling in our direction, motioning to something above our heads. His voice was silenced by the wind and waves, but following his line of sight, I realized in horror that our main sail was not completely up! Without the main sail in its correct position, a boat cannot sail properly; our boat was being jerked back and forth by the luffing sail (“luffing” happens when the sail is not tight enough and the wind causes it to flap). Our skipper (the person who steers the boat), the JV sailor, was quick to act.

“Raise the sail and cleat it!” he ordered my friend Laura, who was at the front of the boat.

She did as instructed, and our boat steadied itself. We let out a sigh of relief. But just as we started to relax, the wind picked up and threw our boat to one side. Lake water began pouring in from the lower side of the vessel, where another friend was frozen, terrified. I clung onto the high side of the boat, feeling immensely grateful for my life jacket.

“Lean out! Lean out!” cried our mentor.

I snapped back into action, joining him, Laura, and another sailor in leaning our bodies backwards towards the water. We held our breaths.

Nothing happened. Water continued to pour in. I debated whether or not to take one hand off the side of the boat and hold my nose. Then, miraculously, the boat straightened. I sat back up and looked at my shipmates.

We smiled at each other, proud to have overcome such difficulties.

Sailing is all about teamwork. As Laura puts it, “You never know what will happen until you grab a friend,

Sailors take the boats out of the docks, working hard to stay balanced. take a risk, and try something new .” One can’t be expected to learn how to sail the first time he or she goes out onto the lake; learning to sail takes time, patience, and the ability (that I obviously lack) to keep calm during times of high winds and tipping boats.

- Sharon Chen ’12 and Nancy Wu ‘14

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SPORTS

September 2010

En Garde! A Pointed Interview with Mr. Barr Davidson Barr is a new intern at Culver this year. He graduated from Northwestern College, double majoring in mathematics and economics. He started fencing when he was 18. Now he is an A10 rated USA Fencer. He led the Northwestern epee squad to win the Club National Championship in 2009. His favorite color is blue, and he doesn’t know why. He currently lives in the Main Barrack. I interviewed Mr. Barr to introduce him to Culver:

A. First, the tangible goal will be winning the conference. However, as a coach I want to make sure everybody is having a good experience, and give them opportunitiesy to succeed in a sport that most of students don’t even have a chance to do. Also, I want to encourage every fencer to have a growing mind set, and discover themselves through fencing, because I believe it is very important to becoming a successful fencer.

Q. Do you have any words to encourage students to try out for fencing this year?

A. I think there is no need to say how fun it is. Come and try out, and when the coach says fence, fencing will speak for itself.

Q. What made you to come to the Culver?

A. I came to culver for the first time for the fencing USA tournament. I won the Culver fencing USA tournament, and Culver fencing head coach Stefanic asked me to come to the Culver to be fencing coach, and also because I was doing math tutoring. Coach Stefanic told me about the Intern program in Cculver, and I was looking for a job. So, I applied for it, and I become a new intern at Culver.

Q. What classes do you teach?

A. I teach honors elements ofary calculus now, and I will be teaching algebra I1 next semester.

Q. Do you like Culver so far?

Mr. Barr enthusiastically explaining derivatives

Q. Is there anything else that you want to say?

A. Your life in Culver can be the best time of your life. Enjoy it, work hard, and learn.

Learning continues in and out of the classroom with Mr. Barr A. Yes! I am having a really good time being in Culver. Faculty members and students are very friendly here. Also, I love the atmosphere. It is academic, positive, and nice. Fencing is fun! I enjoy working with the Culver fencing team. Oh! And I love the architecture here. It is beautiful. I enjoy being outside, but I’m not sure about that when January comes around.

Q. What is your goal as math teacher this year?

A. One of my ultimate goals is encouraging students to have a growing mind set. Mr. Buxton told us about why we need to have a growing mind set instead of fixed mind set and I believe it is very important. Also, I know the stereotypes that say math is boring , and uninteresting. However, I really want to break that stereotype and encourage students to enjoy math and learning.

Q. What is your goal as fencing coach this year?

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That’s the news from Mr. Barr, the new intern. If you see him around campus say hi! If you need positive mind set, say hi! If you are interested in fencing, you definitely need to say hi!

Kevin Kim ‘12

Davidson and Tim Thompson hard at work

Vol. 114 Issue #1

Travel&Arts

S e p t e m b e r 2 0 10

BECAUSE THERE’S A WORLD BEYOND ACADEMY ROAD

Logansport Recalled When all nine cadets have finished

Let’s go! Everyone get to the dining hall and eat quickly!” I shouted to the new cadets. Being an Operation Sergeant, I was responsible for taking the new cadets from the barrack to the dining hall, dining hall to naval building, and then naval building to Logansport city. It hasThe trip has been a major part of new cadet orientation since last year, with a product of Col. Jordon’s effort to educate Culver cadets about the history of Culver and cadets who had been the major helpers when a big flood destroyed the city of Logansport- . Years ago, Culver cadets had played a major role in saving civilians trapped by the flood waters engulfing the city of Logansport.

After the new cadets rowed on the lake in front of naval building, the buses were loaded up and departed for Logansport city. At the first stop, Col. Jordon showed

the cadets views of the city and described what it was like when the flood hit the city. According to the Ccolonel, the impact the flood had on the citizens and families of Logansport was dramaticflood had a drastic impact on the citizens and families of Logansport. Many pPeople were on the roofs of their houses, and waiting for someone to come and rescue them. If it wasn’t for the courageous acts of Culver cadets, many a lot more casualties would have been injuredthere than there actually were.

Next the cadets moved into a building to have lunch and discuss about the virtues of the Culver men. One new cadet from each unit had to gather ideas around from his leaders and fellow new cadet brothersbrothers and related the values of the Culver cadets to the Sspirit of Culver and the Culver Ccode of Cconduct.

their presentations, everyone in the building had deeper understanding of each line of the Ccode of Cconduct and the Sspirit of Culver.

After the corpse had returned to the campus, each cadet who went on the trip was awarded a Logansport pin, representing the completion of the Logansport trip which achieved true education of courageous Culver cadets’ history and tradition. This pin signified that each cadet had gained a true understanding of the history and tradition of Culver cadets. Joel Carr, a 4th classmen new cadet from Troop B says, “Logansport trip showed that the brotherhood of the Culver cadets really stuck together to help out these people who were in need. They went beyond the duty and showed true leadership”.

- Jake Kang ‘12

A Summer at Stanford

Whenever I ask someone if he knows about JSA, most of the teenagers and even the faculty members respond, “JSA? Is that like Japanese Student Association or something?” Then I graciously explain to them, “It stands for Junior Statesmen of America, which is a non-partisan student-run high school organization”, though it may be my 100th time telling the same

story. In my own thoughts, JSA is the most entertaining and academically worthwhile high school club.

A Culver chapter was started in the 2009-2010 academic year, but due to lack of experienced JSA scholars, I also chose to attend a summer school for JSA to learn more. The options varied from Georgetown, Yale, Stanford, and Princeton, but I Continued on next page

Vol. 114 Issue #1

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S e p t e m b e r 2010

TRAVEL & ARTS

Summer Cont’d Continued from previous page

chose to go to California simply because it was the closest to South Korea.

By the time I arrived at the San Francisco Airport, I was a little nervous since all of the people I would meet would be new to me. Fortunately, I met one of my Culver friends, Molly, and a guy named Shah who had been accepted by Culver at that time. With these two Culver connections, my worries about making new friends seemed to fade away. As soon as I got to the campus, I registered and headed to the orientation. According to the director of the program whom the JSA summer school graduates would call “tank mama” (tank was the name of the JSA office), there would be regular class period such as AP Government & Politics and additional speaking sessions.

In the latter part, every student gets to become a main speaker or subsequent speaker on topics regarding U.S. politics, international relations, and constitutional law.

Each student can either choose to stand on affirmative side or negative side and has to defend their position with their speeches.

My topic was whether the government should impose tax on sugary beverages and I was affirmative on the resolution. My reasoning was that since Obama’s health care reform has gone into effect, imposing tax on sugared beverages would make people with the highest chance of getting diabetes or obesity pay for their own treatment fees. The more they drink Pepsi and Coca Cola, the more tax they pay. In addition, imposing tax will increase the price of the products which will lead to reduction of the purchase rates. This in turn will bring the number of people with obesity and diabete population down. With these logical supporting details and my fancy speech skills, I won the debate by 9-4; I was proud that I achieved this success on Stanford campus.

If anyone asks me if I would go to another JSA summer school next year, my affirmative answer would come out without half a second of hesitation in my mind.

Indeed, I am planning on attending Georgetown program next summer; it has been recognized for its excellence in academic programs and prestigious guest speakers who will inspire the political aspirations of young scholars.

Having a family trip, going to beaches, and chilling with friends are all good ways to relax and enjoy during the summer. Nonetheless, three weeks of JSA summer programs are worth its portion of one’s summer vacation.

Prospective students will meet the most diverse group of students at their age, who are just as unique, diverse, and passionate about political issues as they are.

- Jake Kang ’12

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JSA participants enjoying activities and making friends.

A Night With Nature Our first concert series at Culver this year was a rather interesting experience. We had the pleasure of listening to the naturally inspired sounds of Paul Winters. We were able to listen to the lullaby of a Humpback Whale to Sleeping Seal Pups, howl to the moon, chant, and even sing the chorus of a song. The concert series overall was fun and eye-opening.

We discovered how the artists felt about their music. Paul Winters and his band were all very connected to the music they were making.

I wanted to find out what other kids on campus thought about the concert and decided it would be a good idea to ask some people what they thoughttheir opinions. These are the comments a lot of students made.

“I thought it was very interesting. Interacting with the band was a lot of fun. My favorite part was when we howled like the wolves.”

“I thought it was pretty good, I don’t know how to describe it. Paul Winters was one with nature.”

“It was a lot of fun and very interesting. My favorite part was the listening to the whales.”

“It wasn’t for the typical person. I thought it was very interesting. You had to understand the reason behind the music.”

“The music was really innovative and well-received by the crowd. My favorite part was the internal imagery. It was a great opportunity to commune with nature in Eppley Auditorium. We experienced a more personal side with nature. I was very impressed with the cellist. The whales remind me of how I sing songs to my seal pups.”

“I thought it was good, exciting, and entertaining. My favorite part was howling. The whale sounds were a little awkward.”

“I thought it was okay. Howling was my favorite part. The whales were weird.”

I did have my doubts when Mr. Winters told us we would be listening to the call of the Humpback Whale, but I thought the concert was quite good overall. It was a new experience and kept me guessing what would come next. It was enjoyable and I am looking forward to the concerts to come.

Shaughnessy Lindquist ‘14

Vol. 114 Issue #1

WEG

September 2010

WEG is Where It’s At

This year, on September 25, Culver will be performing in the opening of the World Equestrian Games in The Kentucky Horse Park, in Lexington. Culver has the incredible opportunity, to kick off a worldwide event that will last until October 10th.The games occur every four years, two years before the Olympics, and are overseen by the Fédération Equestre Internationale (FEI). The World Equestrian games were first started in 1990 in Stockholm. Since then, the games have been held in the Netherlands, Ireland, Dubai, Spain, and Aachen. There are eight events total: dressage, driving, endurance, eventing, jumping, para dressage, reigning, and vaulting.

Para dressage is the most recent event, instigated this year. Fifty-eight58 countries, 900 athletes, and 1,300 horses are participating. Australia, Canada, Germany, and the United States have entered in all eight events. The World Equestrian games were first started in 1990 in Stockholm. Since then, the games have been held in the Netherlands, Ireland, Dubai, Spain, and Aachen.

The question is this: what is Culver doing to prepare for such a meaningful event, important to horse lovers and riders across the world? Equestriennetrian coaches, Dean Rasch and Ms. Kranich, and Llancer coaches, Mr. Waller and Mr. Seims, have dedicated their time and effort to make riders at Culver look spectacular on their debut on September 25.

A staff of stable hands tends to each individual horse. Forty girls and boys will be riding, five will be boys carrying the flags for color guards, and alternates will be attending the event as well. Not only do students have Equine Science during the day, but also practice from 4:15 to as late as 8 every night. Kim Asenbeck, who has been riding for half of her life, and Natalie Hogan, who has been riding for eight years, are both extremely enthusiastic about the World Equestrian Games. Kim is looking forward to not having to eat box lunches, but in reality she’s excited to see some of the competitors.

“Some of the horsemen and women who we’ll be seeing while we’re at the Kentucky Horse Park are Olympians, who I’ve idolized since I’ve been riding. There are going to be some incredibly well-known riders competing at the Games, and to think that they are going to be the ones watching us perform is incredibly astounding. Imagine being a basketball player, preparing to play in front of Michael Jordan, or a cellist preparing to perform for YoYo Ma. Because Culver has such a big barn, you’re given the opportunity to ride so many different types of horses. Developing the ability to do this is exactly what makes people better, more versatile, more experienced riders… It’s not uncommon for anyone to ride at least three different horses within one week, and often, these horses will be as different as night and day. We have ex-racehorses, champion jumpers, giant draft horses, and polo ponies. Learning to ride and adapt to all different types of horses is exactly what advances your skill as a rider.”

Kim Asenbeck ’12 “I’m most looking forward to the experience and memories that the equestriennes and lancers can have together. I have heard so many stories from people who have performed in the Inauguration for President Obama and how happy they were that they did it, and I think WEG will be the same way. I have been riding for 8 years.I enjoy riding because you never know what to expect. You could just get on and jump a course or play polo or have a very excited horse and that’s what I like about horses, they are animals and they all have good and bad days just like people. Culver is an exceptional school, how many other high schools have riding as a class you can take during the school day? I like riding at Culver because you never ride the same one day you may get an easy horse the next day it could be a really challenging horse to ride, and that’s what’s exciting about riding at Culver, you never know who you’re going to ride until you walk through the doors at the barn.”

Natalie Hogan ’13 Continued on next page

Riders and horses warm up with flags before performing for an audience from the Deusenberg Festival

Mr. Waller, Director of Horsemanship, addresses the crowd and answers questions.

The audience applauds as the 40 Equestriennes and Lancers exit.

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September 2010

WEG

Another Perspective

n the last four weeks, I have spent more than fifty hours on the back of a horse. I have spent more than fifty hours working on precise movements. I have spent more than fifty hours preparing for this. Yet, with the end of boxed lunches soon in sight, I realized that I had little to no idea how this event came about or how it would impact the community. As a participant in the 2009 Inaugural Parade, I had some idea of how it would affect me personally, but I was curious about the larger impact.

So, I decided to ask those who knew. I first interviewed Mrs. Cathy Zurbrugg of the Development Office.

How was Culver selected to participate in the Opening Ceremonies?

In early 2006, I was contacted by two Culver alumni in Lexington who informed that Lexington, KY was selected as the host for the World Equestrian Games 2010 (WEG). They contacted me to express their belief that the Games would present a wonderful opportunity to highlight Culver and its horsemanship program. I then traveled to Lexington to meet with the two alumni, discussed the potential of Culver’s participation in the Games, and then shared the idea with Mr. Buxton. He approved, and then I established a WEG steering committee of Culver alumni and parents in the Lexington area to explore the possibility of Culver’s participation in the Games. After more than three years of effort, Culver finally received the formal letter of invitation to participate in the Games’ Opening Ceremonies in October, 2009.

continued from previous page

In addition fellow Equestriennesequestrians Annie Morsches and Jazmyn Jones comment on their feelings and their preparation for this incredible event.

“WEG is very exciting … I feel like I am making history not only in Culver, but for the world since this is the first time the games have been held in the United States. The Equestriennesequestrians are preparing by working hard every day and working until our routine and movements are at absolute perfection. It has been a lot of fun to prepare for this. I have never had an experience in my life like it, and I am al-

18

What does this mean for the school?

Culver’s participation in the Games provides a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for our horsemanship students to be on the world stage representing Culver, not only its horsemanship program, but the entire Academies and its academic and leadership programs. In addition to participating in the Games’ Opening Ceremonies, Culver’s winter and summer admissions representatives will work at an admissions booth located in the Kentucky Horse Park, where the Games take place, for the entire sixteen days of the Games talking with prospective students and parents attending the Games.

What does it mean to all who were involved in making this possible? It is a wonderful opportunity for Culver.

All who have worked hard in preparation for the Games – alumni, parents, students, faculty, and staff – will feel such a wonderful sense of pride as they watch, in person or on television, Culver’s participation in the World Equestrian Games 2010!

I then talked to Dean Rasch, the Equestrienne coach.

How does WEG compare to the other venues the Equestriennes and Lancers have performed at?

I have had the opportunity to attend 6 Presidential Inaugural Parades with the Black Horse Troop and Equestriennes and those experiences have been among my highlights of being the Equestrienne Coach for 23 years. However, the scope and depth of this experience is incomparable to any other experience I have had with our riders. We will perform in front of 25,000 spectators with NBC Sports covering the Opening Ceremonies.

Where It’s At ways going to remember this. I can’t wait!”

Annie Morsches ‘13 “I am very excited to be part of WEG. Preparing for this big event is very eye opening: how much you have to practice to perform in front of many people.

It was also interesting to see how much our team made progress through every practice. We started the practice with team bonding. I think this was the basic step to keep our team in a great relationship with each other.

Then we began riding practices with riding in forms. Through many practices, we are now progressed with faster patterns with flags. Also many motivational speakers spoke for us to help the

equestrians along the way. Our As the games kick-off first motivational speaker, Mr. and our fellow students Waller, helped us to practice head out, be sure to wish with more joy and with less them luck! pressure by his humor. I cannot forget when Mr. Waller said h t t p : / / w w w. a l l t e c h ‘Rather than being hungry you feigames.com/ need to be starving.’”

Jazmyn Jones ’12 Mary McKinnis ‘13 and Ji Hu Kim’13

Vol. 114 Issue #1

September 2010

Another Perspective

(continued from previous page )

58 countries watching our riders will be a special experience that may not be repeated again. This is the first time that the World Equestrian Games has ever been held in the United States and we are so fortunate to be involved with this event. Many thanks to the WEG Steering Committee in Lexington, Kentucky and everyone on campus who has made this event a reality for our students!

What does this opportunity mean to the school?

The opportunity for the students from Culver Academies to perform at the World Equestrian Games brings the “Culver” name to a nationwide and international audience. The majority of people that will watch the Culver riders at the World Equestrian Games Opening Ceremonies on Saturday and at the Equine Village on Sunday may not be familiar with the Culver Academies or seen Culver riders perform.

These opportunities will allow us to promote both Culver Academies and our riding program. We also will have a Culver Academies and Culver Summer Schools/Camps booth for 16 days at the World Equestrian Games so many people will be able to learn about our school and talk with representatives from our school.

What does it mean for you personally?

I am so excited to be part of this amazing opportunity! It has been a privilege

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Equestriennes and Lancers practice the Pinwheel movement for the FEI segment of the Opening Ceremonies.

All photos by Elaina Engelhard ‘13

WEG participants make final preparations and have rehearsals for their trip to Kentucky!

to work with members of the Black Horse Troop and Equestriennes in preparation for WEG. The students have worked extremely hard and sacrificed much to practice for the past 5 weeks. I am proud of all the students involved in WEG including the Color Guard and Lancer Band. This is the first time that the Lancers and Equestriennes have performed together (the Opening Ceremonies) and it has been a wonderful experience working with the students as they prepared for WEG. Their camaraderie as a team and their excitement and enthusiasm has been fantastic!

What do you hope that the students will gain from this experience?

I believe that this will be an experience that all the students involved will always remember. They will remember the long, hours of practice and preparing the horses for WEG, but most of all they will remember performing in front of a crowd of 25,000. They may not realize it now, but they will be great ambassadors for the Culver Academies. I think that they will cherish friendships with each other, bond with the horses they are riding and will be in awe of being on the world’s stage. I believe that they will feel a great deal of pride in their accomplishment and pride in representing their school.

Now, as I prepare to leave for Lexington— and for another round of boxed lunches—I have a better understanding of just how important the Games will be for both me personally and Culver as a whole. Thank you to Dean Rasch and Mrs. Zurbrugg for giving me this!

-Cricket Gullickson ‘11

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MAR

September 2010

Why I’ll See You at MAR Next Year When someone asks, “So, how was MAR?”, chances are you’ll hear something like “It was really good” or, “I had a lot of fun”. That’s great, but it fails to do justice to the amazing experience MAR really is. The truth is, you can’t really fathom how rewarding MAR is until you actually go through the activities and games that are as unusual as the people themselves. Participants are able to view the world in a new light.

You’ll end up in a field at 7:00 AM, with your eyes

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shut tight and your extremities numbed by the chilly morning air. You’ll play by their rules, not relying on the advantage of cross country or track, and not held back by your nonexistent athletic ability. Yes or No: Have you ever been mocked based on your racial identity or ethnic background? Yes or No: Did you grow up in a single-parent household? Based on your silent response these questions, you’ll either take one step forward or one step back. Once the seemingly endless questions do, indeed, come to an end, you’ll open your eyes. Blurred by the

rays of the early sun, you’ll be surprised at how far apart these questions have set you from your friends. Some stand behind the starting line, others stand inches away from the finish line. Then, “Ready, get set, GO!” And you’ll race to the finish.

Before MAR, I never realized how much the circumstances of my childhood effect my everyday life. My identity isn’t simply defined by the color of my skin, my heritage, or my parents. My entire history and all of my memories work in coherence to define who I

am and where I’m headed.

Taking them into account, we are far from equals as Culver students; our uniforms can only do so much to set us as equals. Yet, MAR does little to discourage the underprivileged; instead, it comes as a challenge and a wakeup call that is both needed and long-lasting.

“So, how was MAR?” It was surprising. It was eyeopening. At the very least, it was educational, in the most painless sense of the word.

-Carina Conti ‘12

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MAR

September 2010

MAR: The R is for Rainbow I attended the Multicultural Awareness Retreat on September 4th. I was initially overwhelmed by numerous people who I have never talked to before or even met. Upon the arrival, the members of MAR introduced themselves.

Unsurprisingly, the programs of MAR focused on discovering differences between each other rather than finding our similarities.

By recognizing different values and personal traits, I realized how diverse Culver society really is. Culver students are diverse not only ethnically but also economically, culturally, and religiously.

MAR reminded me of a rainbow. A rainbow is beautiful because it has various colors. If it was composed of only one color, white, black, or yellow, it would not be as beautiful as it is. Culver also is a great place to live in because it has various colors. Without Culver’s various cultures and colors, it would not be able to sustain its society so successfully.

MAR was a great experience because it displayed diversity and the flexibility of Culver society.

-Boosik Choi ‘12

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September 2010

THE MONTH IN NUMBERS

This month in numbers is now color coded so that you know how much you should laugh: pink- slight smile black- chuckle red- short burst indigo- hearty guffaw green- rolling on the floor in agony; call the ambulance now teal- Should I even be laughing at this?

1,400- The number of howling faculty, staff, students, and various visitors at the Paul Winters Concert Series 350- The number students (both new and returning) who are consistently lost.

7- The number of underclassmen who stepped on Beason. WE WILL FIND YOU! 60- The number of underclassmen who have sat on the Senior Ring. Really… we will find you! We’re serious…

5 Million- Number of students with cell phones out on campus.

864- Number of students frothing at the mouth due to Café Max’s new delivery service.

40- Number of years old CGA will turn (as of next year). Happy early birthday!

66- Number of “lasts” that seniors are already counting down... Last first “Month in Numbers”!

214- Number of seniors attempting to bomb the dining hall to rid the world of their freshman pictures 30- Number of seniors who are Corky’s death list: THAT’S YOU IF YOU HAVEN’T STARTED YOUR COMMON APP! 45- Number of days that have been gorgeous… in Indiana… Is it the apocalypse?

70- Number of couples using the weather to their advantage to break the rules of PDA. 2- Number of Chewy Bars remaining in the box following the Mid-Morning feeding frenzy 87%- Percent of said chewy bars that are chocolate 0 – Number of New Cadets that have been hazed! (That we know of…)

Laura Freymiller ‘11, Cricket Gullickson ‘11, Hannah Smith ‘11, Clancy Tripp ‘11, Carina Conti ‘12, Janet Sanaxinay ‘13, Mr. Barnes Disclaimer: This is not a factual or research- based article, and does not in any way reflect the opinions of the Vedette staff.

WEG Blog Love Log The Vedette (with the help of the dedicated and beautiful Cricket Gullickson and Ellie Faust) will be running a blog of the World Equestrian Games. To keep track of the WEG-ers progress go to thevedette.wordpress.com. Although internet may be spotty, we hope to have updates at least every night (or early in the morning). Be sure to support these brave young people as they head out to represent the school, the country, and, of course, themselves. Good luck WEG-ers!