Summer 2012 by Lakefield College School

Grove News Summer 2012

Calendar of Events 2012/13

For details please refer to our school calendar at www.lcs.on.ca September

FEBRUARY

28 Grade 11 & 12 Parents’ Reception

Kingston, ON Alumni Reception

29 Grade 8, 9 & 10 Parents’ Reception Fall Fair/Home to the Grove Reunion

Mardi Gras Dinner, Peterborough

Peterborough Alumni Reception

October

MARCH

London, UK Alumni Reception

UK Friends of LCS Dinner (London)

APRIL

London, ON Alumni Reception

20 Admissions Open House

Toronto Alumni Reception

27 Trustees’ Meeting/Dinner

1960s Old Boys’ Reunion

November

Grove Society Speaker Event

Halifax Alumni Reception

LCS Parents’ Reception (Toronto)

Grove Society Alumni Dinner

MAY

Guelph/Waterloo Alumni Reception

Trustees’ Meeting

29 Ottawa Alumni Reception

Volunteer Recognition Event

DECEMBER

Regatta Day

Going Grove Advancement Dinner (Graduating Class)

Grove Society Christmas Gathering

JANUARY

JUNE

Grade 8 Graduation Dinner

Closing Grade 12 Graduation Dinner

Montreal Alumni Reception

Lakefield College Trustees 2011/12 School Board Chair Paul Hickey Past Chair John Ryder ’77 Cindy AtkinsonBarnett Tim Bell ’00 David Bignell Walter Blackwell ’56 Marilynn Booth Carlo Bos ’94 Andrew Clarke ’85 Stephen Coates ’90 Peter Dunn ’62 Signy Eaton-Shier Stephanie Edwards Bishop George Elliott

Amanda Ethier ’98 Ann Farlow Jock Fleming ’74 Romina Fontana ’94 Bill Gastle ’68 Janice Green Rick Green Nicole Groves ’93 Jennifer Gruer Terry Guest* Neil Hamilton Tim Heeney ’83 Brent Hurley Alan Ingram Brett Jackman ’03 Warren Jones ’88 Zack Kembar ’87 Jennifer Kotzeff Janet Lafortune Kathleen Leonard

Nick Lewis ’77 Kim Little ’53 Ross Little ’81 Hugh Macdonnell ’85 Kevin Malone ’77 Patrick Marshall ’90 James Matthews ’58 Andrea McConnell Jim McGowan Sarah McMahon John McRae ’70 Val McRae David Miller ’77 Tracy Morley ’93 Bill Morris ’70 Margaret Nelligan Anil Patel ’93 Sierra Peddie ’12 Tony Pullen ’63 Vicki Pullen

Sean Quinn ’82 Kathleen Ramsay Doug Rishor ’57 Noah Rosen ’12 Gretchen Ross John Schumacher Murray Sinclair ’79 Nancy Smith Scott Smith ’87 John Stelzer ’00 Losel Tethong ’89 Stuart Thompson ’91 Richard Tucker ’77 Christine Vogel Tim Ward ’62 Jane Waterous Chris White ’90 Terry Windrem HRH The Duke of York ’78

Foundation

Jeffrey Marshall* Scott McCain Board Chair Andrea McConnell Bill Morris ’70 Robert McEwen Honorary Chair Rosemary Phelan Paul Desmarais Jr. ’73 Kathleen Ramsay Donald Ross ’48 Secretary James Matthews ’58 Thomas Ryder ’53 Emilio Azcarraga Jean ’87 Géza von Diergardt William Wells ’78 Marilynn Booth Richard Wernham Bruce Boren ’87 HRH The Duke of York ’78 Jonathan Carroll ’87 Brian Carter* Directors in Bold Michael Cooper * Honorary Alumni Stan Dunford Jock Fleming ’74 John K. Hepburn ’68 Suzanne Legge Orr Angus MacNaughton ’48

(Front Cover) Joanna Potts ’12 and her classmates at candlelight Chapel—an annual ceremony held at the Opening and Closing of each year to honour and celebrate the graduating class as they complete their final year at The Grove.

Editorial Cameron Ainsworth-Vincze ’96

As I got older, especially in my

enjoyed during the school’s 133-

You would be hard pressed to find

senior year, I started to notice

year history.

a more idyllic place to live, study

some of the more serene places on

and work than The Grove. With its

campus that I had rarely visited

315-acre campus set in a wooded

or had simply taken for granted.

paradise on a lake that is also home

Places like the porch of the Gate

to state-of-the-art facilities, those

House in the fall when the leaves

passing through the gates for the

are changing colour, the view of

first time might mistakenly think

the lake from atop the field that

they had stumbled onto a resort—

tumbles down from Matthews

or a slice of heaven.

House or the stairs that lead up to

When I first arrived at The Grove

For many it is the Chapel, which Mike Arsenault knew was sacred “the first time I stepped into it, 31 years ago.” For others it’s the waterfront, and for some there are places few know about, like Richard Hagg’s view from the top of the Nordic skiing trail.

the dining hall when the flowers

Such sacred parts of The Grove

are in full bloom.

are what make it a magical place,

as a scrawny, hyperactive 12-yearold in 1989, the campus was the

In this issue of the Grove News

best playground imaginable. From

we explore those “sacred spaces”

canoeing and swimming on Lake

(p.17) on campus. Inspired by a

Katchewanooka, to playing soccer

chapel speech delivered by Garret

and baseball on Lefevre Field,

Hart (Head of Cooper House and

to biking on the various paths

an OE instructor) earlier this year,

that weave around the campus,

members of the Grove community

every afternoon and weekend was

were asked to talk about those

filled with endless activities and

special spaces on campus that

possibilities.

students, staff and alumni have

a place to be cherished and taken care of by those of us who have been fortunate enough to call it home. Cameron Ainsworth-Vincze ’96 is a Toronto-based journalist and writer who has worked for The Globe and Mail and Maclean’s. He is currently a Communication Specialist with the Prospectors and Developers Association of Canada.

Grove News Summer 2012 | i

Note

from the Head of School

Struan Robertson, Closing Address, June 16, 2012 Members of the LCS community, especially the Class of 2012: It is hard for me to believe how quickly time has passed and we are now here on June 16th. Time clearly flies when you are having fun. As I look back on the past 90 days, I need to start off with some words of appreciation. Coming in as the new head in the middle of the year could have been a big challenge, or worse, a disaster, but I can honestly say that it has been amazing. Thank you to the students, to the staff, to the board and trustees and to the community. Thank you for embracing me right from day one, for the amazing welcome my family received this week and for pointing me in the right direction when I wandered. Lakefield College School is truly “like no other”! This is a very special group of grads—for many reasons, but for me personally because this is my first group of grads from The Grove. I will always remember this group—the spirit, the leadership, the final jump in the lake on Wednesday afternoon, your welcome packages for my kids, the rugby championship, visits to the residences, hanging out in the Canadiana Room in the library during spares, your chapel speeches, learning all about the game of Ultimate, Mr. Aben’s Calculus class, Ms. Brown’s AP English and Mr. McMahon’s Classical Civilizations class, and your total support of the new head. I have loved getting to know you and will love even more welcoming you back to The Grove when you return for Fall Fairs, Regatta Days and your reunions. This group has a big presence and has even bigger potential. As many of you know, we have spent the past three months refining the new strategic plan for LCS. It will be a bold plan, focused on learning and preparing students best for life in the 21st century. As part of this process, we have been collecting feedback from many LCS constituents, past and present—students, staff, alumni and parents. Some of their encouragement has included the following advice:

NN Aim high. Whatever LCS does, it must be world class. NN Be top ten. Be distinctly Canadian. NN You are uniquely positioned to change lives through relationships.

ii | Grove News Summer 2012

When you start thinking about these words, you

young children’s faces as they beg for money on the

imagine the true impact of the Lakefield Difference.

streets of Bangkok, the determination of the people of

This difference, which many of our grads have

Thailand during the terrible flooding last October and

articulated so clearly over the past three months, is

the wonder of a simple smile. I have experienced the

unique. How does Lakefield instill this difference? Can

power of helping another human build their home and

we measure it?

how fulfilling this can be.

So my question for you today, Grads of 2012, is this:

Class of 2012, you have shown us your true colours, that

if, during your time here, you have experienced the

you are passionate about learning, about life, about

Lakefield Difference, what will you give in return? A big

each other and about Lakefield. You have completed

question for sure. But one that I think warrants further

your hours of community service, you have been role

thinking.

models for our younger students and ambassadors

We know that our graduates are readily accepted into university. We know that many go on to do honours and masters degrees. We know, from our alumni and constituent relations activities, that many go on to lead

for our school. You have shown determination in the face of adversity. You have won and lost in the arena and on the playing field with humility and good sportsmanship.

wonderfully fulfilling lives with successful jobs, raising

How will you continue this behaviour after today? How

families and, in many cases, sending their children to

will you give back to your community, both locally and

LCS.

globally? How will you continue to learn from your

So—we have established what our grads DO with their

mistakes and failures?

Lakefield Difference. But do we know HOW our grads

That is my challenge to you, Grads of 2012. Make a

give back the Lakefield Difference after they leave?

difference. Give back. Volunteer. Lend a hand. Get

Do they continue to do community service as we have

involved. Pay forward the Lakefield Difference. I want

taught them to do during their time at The Grove? Do

our graduates to have long, successful, fulfilling lives. I

they reach out in their communities, coach sports

want to hear stories of how you changed the world, how

teams, work with under-privileged youth? Do they

you invented a new medicine, how you stopped and

stand up to challenges, to the hard knocks of life, to

assisted a stranger, or how you made a difference in

adversity? Are they resilient?

someone else’s life. I know you will.

I ask these questions because, after living in Thailand

I can’t wait to hear all about you and I will be your #1

for the past 13 years, I have seen suffering, loss,

cheerleader. Go get ‘em! Congratulations to you all

challenge and humility. I have seen the devastation

and my very best wishes for a fulfilling and rewarding

of the tsunami and the Red Shirt uprising, the look on

future.

Grove News Summer 2012 | iii

“We all believe in the exceptional academic and life learning that happens here...and we want to do whatever we can to ensure that this school is as meaningful and special ten, twenty years from now as it is today.”

The School’s Secret Weapon Is You Paul Hickey, Chair of the Board

those who have sought and found how to serve.” Well, I

From his Closing Speech, June 16, 2012

have an ‘ask’ of you today. Stay involved in your school.

Don’t think of me as the Chair, think of me as the person I really am: a proud parent of a daughter who is graduating today, and a passionate Lakefield College

Your school needs you. In an increasingly competitive and complex world, where truly nothing is a guarantee, please stay involved in Lakefield College School.

School volunteer who has the same simple reason

Parents of graduates, and grandparents of graduates—

for getting involved in this great place as hundreds

who today may mark the end of 2, 4, 6, 8, 10 or more

of other volunteers do, because we all believe in the

years of being connected to the school through your

exceptional academic and life learning that happens

children being here—you need to know that the

here, and we want to do whatever we can to ensure that

potential power of your continuing involvement in

this school is as meaningful and special ten, twenty

LCS is immense. It is this school’s secret weapon. In

years from now as it is today.

fact, it may just be one of the most defining parts of

In the last couple of years I’ve had the chance to reach out beyond this campus and participate in conferences and meetings where all Canadian or North American independent schools are represented. I’ve met lots of other heads, other chairs. You learn how other schools operate, how they fundraise, how they organize volunteers, what kinds of programs they offer their students. The most striking thing you learn about is how different Lakefield College School is in its ability to engage its entire community in its pursuit of its mission. On more than one occasion, a colleague from another school or someone from the Canadian Accredited Independent Schools (CAIS) has said to me, “I just don’t understand how Lakefield College School does it. How can you have so many people involved in so many different parts of LCS, all making huge commitments of time, energy and resources to advance the interests of the school? You have two groups of trustees totaling 100 people who meet twice

the Lakefield Difference. We are blessed with a legion of volunteers who help make up for the fact that, in many ways, we are a natural ‘underdog’ on the world stage of private schools due to our location off the beaten path in rural east central Ontario, and to our small size—which we know has huge benefits but also poses challenges in the areas of overhead and cost efficiencies. I just wanted you to know that your work as volunteers, both ‘official’ and unofficial—Grove Society; parent representatives; hosting students in your home here in Lakefield, Peterborough, Toronto, the Bahamas; working at Fall Fair; or cheering on teams even when you no longer have a child on the team—makes a huge difference and helps set this place apart from the rest. So please, find something you love about this place that you want to protect or improve, stay connected to it, and I think you’ll find that that connection continues to be one of the most satisfying and rewarding parts of your life.

a year! Who does that?! Everyone wants to know, ‘How

It was almost two years ago that, during a difficult,

do you do it, LCS?’”

challenging time, one amazing woman stepped

German philosopher Albert Schweitzer said, “I don’t know what your destiny will be, but one thing I know: the only ones among you who will be really happy are iv | Grove News Summer Spring/Summer 2012 2008

forward and agreed to lead our school for at first one, then two years as we went to work to search for the next Head of LCS, and then waited patiently for him to

arrive! I know that her official title was Interim Head,

ninth Head of School at Lakefield College School. No “i”

but somehow I never really liked that term—because

before the word. No “interim.” She was our Head and

it always said to me that she was something less than a

she did a fantastic job. Thank you so much.

real head—and she wasn’t. She was an amazing Head of School from day one.

Struan, I think I speak on behalf of everyone under this tent, and the thousands of alumni, past parents,

Sarah McMahon brought the community together

volunteers, donors and friends of The Grove out

just like a mother steps in and brings a family together

there, when I say that we are very excited about the

during difficult times. She provided incredible

future of our great school. We can’t wait to stand with

leadership during this time. I know I will always

you and behind you as you take LCS to new heights.

remember the two Sarah-Paul years as two of the most

We’re off to a great start. Thank you for how you have

challenging, rewarding and fulfilling volunteering

embraced your first three months here. I know it

times of my life. But more important, Sarah made the

wasn’t easy being separated from your family. But they

past two years great years for the students here today.

are here now. And the Head’s Bachelor Pad is being

I feel like this year’s graduates, who had just finished

transformed, as we speak, into the Robertson Family

Grade 10 when Sarah agreed to take on the interim

Home.

headship, had two of the most amazing years any student at LCS could have. Her love and concern for them is never-ending. Sarah is one in a million. And from this point forward, in every book and on every wall and in our hearts, Sarah McMahon will be the

Jennifer, Jack, Molly and Aidan, it is so great to finally have you here with us. I hope you find life at Lakefield College School to be everything you hoped it would be and more.

Grove News Summer 2012 | v

vi | Grove News Summer 2012

Head Students’ Closing Address

Closing Awards—June 16, 2012

Start Living Your Dreams Today: Keynote Address by Erin Freeland-Ballantyne ’99, Closing 2012

School Highlights

Welcome to The Robertsons

Ken Sunderland Retires After 32 Years at LCS

Finding The Sacred

Leaving a Legacy at Lakefield College School

All in a Day’s Work: Sand Sculpting World Champion Andy Briggs ’83

Grove Spirit Alive and Well!

Class News (Weddings, Births)

In Our Memories

In Memory of Florence Gill Mackenzie Ryder

The Graduating Class of 2012

Editor: Tracey Blodgett; Layout & Design and Copy Editor: Christine Vogel; Contributing Editor: Cameron Ainsworth-Vincze ‘96; Editorial Committee: Heather Avery, Joe Bettencourt, Theresa Butler-Porter, Richard Johnston, Sarah McMahon, Tom Milburn, Struan Robertson, John Runza and Stephanie Wilcox ‘03. Contributing Photographer: Simon Spivey. Please address correspondence to the Communications and Constituent Relations Office: Lakefield College School, Lakefield, ON, K0L 2H0 705.652.3324 tblodgett@lcs.on.ca

Grove News Spring/Summer 2012 | 1

Head Students’ Closing Address—June 2012 Noah Rosen and Sierra Peddie, Class of 2012

Today marks a day of change for many of us. It is the

our turn to leave Lakefield College School for the final

end of a new beginning for those who have just started

time, ready to embark on something new.

at The Grove. It is the debut of a new senior class; it is the transition of a new head; and it is the final memory of Lakefield College School for the Class of 2012. But with change comes opportunity, and, as one of the largest changes to be faced is among the grads now, the possibilities are endless.

LCS has provided us with so much more than just an education. Each day brings new valuable lessons to be learned, and challenges to overcome, be they in the classroom, in the residences, or on the sports fields. This school seamlessly manages to shape us into characters who can do nothing other than thrive. We

We are leaving a world of comforts behind when we

have grown so close over the last several years, always

make our final departure today, as most of us have

supporting one another through our highs and our

found a reason to call this place home. But, as difficult

lows, and it is because of this support that we feel safe.

as it is to leave the familiar behind, our adventures have

We feel at home.

only just begun.

But what we must keep in mind while we begin to go

What is different about today is that it is finally our day.

our separate ways is that the support and security we

We have patiently waited for our turn in years past: our

feel from our friends is everlasting. We have become a

turn to come together as the senior class; our turn to

family of sorts, and although our open house hours will

plan the school events and lead the school spirit; our

be a little different, and our neighbouring residences

turn to jump in that cold, muddy lake; our turn to have

may not be just down the road next year (unless

our names called one by one to receive our diplomas; 2 | Grove News Summer 2012

you’re going to Queen’s), we are confident that our

As we look back, reminiscing about moments past, we

relationships will remain as strong as they are today.

can’t help but smile, for there is an intangible sense of

Although we rely heavily on one another, there are

warmth and unity that greets our every thought.

many people outside of the graduating class who have

The volleyball games at the waterfront; Coffee Houses

helped us along the way and are in need of recognition.

in the dining hall; bonfires by the beach; the dining

Mrs. McMahon, you are nothing short of incredible and have been a helping hand to not only our class but to every student, be it in your subtle gestures or grandiose actions. We could not have had a year such as ours without your endless support and contributions. Thank you for all that you have done. Mr. Robertson, although this has been a transitional year, your frequent visits and infectious enthusiasm have been warmly welcomed by all members of The Grove. We could not be happier to finish off our graduating year with you as the new Head of School, and we know that in years to come you and your family will keep The Grove thriving. Mrs. Robertson, Jack, Molly and Aidan, we are so glad we were able to spend these last few days with you on campus. Thank you. We also want to acknowledge the Class of 2013. We know you are in good hands with Millie and Andrew, and your passion will be a force to reckon with next year. We know you will all be great leaders, and we wish

hall cookies; dressing head to toe in blue, green, red or white and losing your voice from cheering so loud; Opening Night in the theatre; Haunted Halls; Ryan Lee’s videos; Algonquin; Spirit Week; Chapel Speeches; winning the staff vs students slo-pitch game; pizza delivery bills; Ted Pope Day; Airbands—and the list goes on. And then, finally, you come up for your first breath after leaping off that dock, with no inhibitions or regrets; running with all your might; no looking back, no hesitation, just pure joy. We ask that you continue to do this. Don’t be afraid to venture away from the familiar, never feeling as though you can’t. Move forward with no regrets and cherish every moment. We have been through it all; the next time we see each other, no matter how far down the road, these memories will remain and our stories will only continue. Congratulations, Class of 2012!

you the best.

Grove News Summer 2012 | 3

Closing Awards—June 16, 2012 Academic Proficiency Standing Top of Form

Grade 7

Sophie Welch

Grade 8

Samantha Mauro

Grade 9 Vanessa Smith, Adrien Vilcini

Grade 10

Devon Cole

Grade 11

Joshua Walker

Grade 12 Max Fondyga (Governor General’s Medal)

Curriculum Area Prizes Grade 7 and 8

English

The Grade 8 Humanities Prize: Samantha Mauro

The I. Norman Smith Prize for

The Grade 8 Mathematics, Science & Technology Prize: Asheesh Momi

Studies in English Literature: Teraleigh Stevenson The English Writers’ Craft Prize: Nikki Gosselin

The Grade 8 Social Sciences Prize: Delaney Stedman The James Fullerton Prize: Laura Lamont

English The Senior English Prize: Sophia Walter

Fine Arts The David Bierk Visual Arts Prize: Maya Sibbald The Senior Music Prize: Zoe Knowles The Senior Drama Prize: Samira Abed

(Above) The 2012 Grade 8 Graduating Class (Back Row) L-R: Cole Dennis, Hunter Krete, Jeffrey Williams, Christian Gill, Asheesh Momi, Joel McGarrity, Elliott Bork, Luke Berg. (Front Row) L-R: Marc Gulyas-Doy, Delaney Stedman, Esme Munoz, Samantha Mauro, Alex Westcott, Laura Lamont, Mark Walter. 4 | Grove News Summer 2012

Curriculum Area Prizes Modern Languages

Science

The Core French Prize: Johannes Prinz zu Waldeck

The Advanced Placement Chemistry Prize: Max Fondyga

The Advanced Placement Extended French Prize: Zoe Knowles

The Physics Prize: Rob Thompson

HRH Prince of Asturias Spanish Prize: Samira Abed

Mathematics

The McLimont Scholarship for Engineering: Max Fondyga

Social Sciences The Classical Civilizations Prize: Zoe Knowles

The Mathematics of Data Management Prize: Cecilia Yang

The Economics Prize: Teraleigh Stevenson

The Advanced Functions Prize: Fanbo Zhou

The World History Prize: Madelaine Fortier

Professor M. Mackenzie Prize for Calculus: Karan Chawla

The European History Advanced Placement Prize: Chloe Rees-Spear

The Larry Griffiths Prize for Advanced Placement Calculus: Ryan Lee The Advanced Placement Computer Science Price: Kayden Kaller

Science

The Canadian and International Law Prize: Sophia Gabbani The Canada & World Issues Prize: Sophia Walter The Politics Advanced Placement Prize: Teraleigh Stevenson

The Biology Prize: Sarah MacKinnon

Outdoor Education

The Mrs. A.W. Mackenzie Prize for Biology Advanced Placement Biology: Max Fondyga

The Susan Guest Outdoor Education Prize: Joshua Walker

The Chemistry Prize: Samira Abed

Character and Achievement Awards The Harman Award: Asheesh Momi

H.M. Silver Jubilee Award: Colleen MacKenzie

The Gaby Award: Cole Dennis

The Nelles Prize: Noah Rosen

The Junior Grove Society Prize: Monica Scrocchi

The J.R. Anderson Award: Rhiannon Gilbart

The Fred Page Higgins Award: Alexa Armstrong

John Pearman Martyn Sibbald Prize: Abby Allen

Junior Edson Pease Prize: Jake Fell

The Ondaatje Foundation Award: Teraleigh Stevenson

The Jean Ketchum Prize: Devon Cole

The Monty Bull Award: Tess McCutcheon

The Stephen Thompson Prize: Millie Yates

The Jack Matthews Humanitarian Award: Sierra Peddie

The Senior Grove Society Prize: Miles Robertson

The Whitney Prize: Nora Hickey

The Milligan Awards: Anissa Sridhar, Matt Stevens

Jean and Winder Smith Award: Christopher Chan

The Grove Award: Nayna Maini, Christina Chan

The Trustees’ Prize: Samier Kamar

The Crombie Award: Cody McMahon

British Alumni Travelling Scholarship: Kylie Clark, Olivia Essen

Senior Edson Pease Prize: Ryan Lee

Grove News Summer 2012 | 5

Start Living Your Dreams Today Keynote Address by Erin Freeland-Ballantyne ’99, Closing 2012 Ladies and Gentlemen, Faculty, Families, Class of 2012: It is an honour to be here with you today to celebrate, to bid adieu and to dream big. Today, I want to share some small things that I’ve learned in the 13 years that have passed since I sat where you are. I was 17 years old. I had come to LCS from Yellowknife, Northwest Territories, two years before. I cried when my mom drove away from Lower Colebrook, heading home thousands of miles away. But then I didn’t call home for a week, I was having so much fun. I came into Grade 12 a high-achieving student, only to find that I was at a Grade 9 math level. I come from a place where only 40% of First Nations students graduate from high school, and 60% of non-native students do. At LCS, my world shifted with Mr. Boyko’s World Issues class, Mr. Mason’s English and Drama and Mr. Sunderland’s Science in Society. I found rugby and learned the tactical response to skirt measuring—it’s called the “roll.” At LCS, I learned how to think about the world as a community, as connected. I also learned to cherish the place that I come from, as I discovered caribou hunting and winter camping at -40 ºC were not common Canadian activities. In your time here, you might have fallen in love, had your heart broken, been in front of the Standards Committee, done things that you couldn’t wait to tell your parents about and done things you hope they never find out about. You carry these lessons forward, they are shaping who you are, not by the fact that they happened, but by how you acted when they happened, what you learned and how you then use them as tools in your life. While today Lakefield College School feels like the centre of your world, in a few years it will be a critical seed in your garden—but you will be weaving a much bigger web. When I graduated from The Grove, my goal was to make groundbreaking documentaries around the world. A gift my parents gave me after graduation was that they encouraged me to explore—I was told to go for it. I took a year off after high school, worked three jobs for a number of months, often wearing my Number Ones, which were the closest thing I had to office wear. I traveled in South America, surfed, hiked and worked in women’s shelters. I came back to Canada and studied International Development at McGill because I had seen a world that was very unequal, and that there was unbelievable suffering—I could show this with my video camera, but I could not understand why it was this way. Reflecting with fellow classmates from LCS about the competitive 6 | Grove News Summer 2012

rush to head directly into university—I say this: go to university

this fall if you love something, you passionately want to

now, we have been delivering land-based university

pursue it and you love to study. Don’t go to university

semesters in the Northwest Territories, covering

right away because you think you should or someone

everything from history, politics and renewable

is telling you that you should and please don’t waste

energy to journalism, film-making and sustainable

your parents’ money going to a university just because

development. We are the first program of our kind in

all your friends are going there. Explore. Take risks.

Canada, which is the only circumpolar country that

Whatever you are dreaming of, please, please do it.

does not have a university. All the way along, we were

If you are not sure, volunteer, travel, be of service

told that it was impossible, and with every cohort of

to others and you will build a strong foundation in

students that returns to their community as a change

yourself. If you can find something that sets a fire under

maker, we are changing minds. I don’t get paid much

you, there is nothing that can stop you, nothing that can

or often, but I love my job because I know that I am

put it out.

making a difference in my country with experiential

Through undergrad I took time off, I studied and travelled in India and Africa, I spent a year between McGill and Oxford in Brazil spinning fire in a traveling circus and living on a communal farm. I sold banana bread, learned Portuguese and watched my brain take

education. I stand here looking at all of you and imagine the incredible journeys you will go on in the next 13 years, what amazing stories you will have, that you can one day stand here and share with my children. Your future is so bright—so full of possibility.

four and a half years of university theory and apply it in

Our world and our country is at a critical juncture. More

the real world. After Brazil, I went to Oxford on a Rhodes

than ever we need innovation, creative thinking and

Scholarship—I lived on a narrow canal boat off-grid,

for people to live in the recognition that our lives are

did a master’s degree and was the first women ever to

totally interconnected in ways we cannot yet fathom or

have a baby while on stipend, and started my PhD and

imagine. Our future needs your talent, your music, your

delivered my daughter Uma the same week. I loved the

energy to live in awareness through all of your actions,

endless libraries and focused my research on the rapid

from how you build your house, to where you get your

climate change and oil and gas boom in the Arctic. I

food, to what you do for a job—impact others through

lived in a remote community on the Arctic Circle for

your choices and you can make this connection

two and a half years, learning from elders on mountain

harmful or beautiful.

hunting trips about ecology and politics. They taught me as much as my professors at Oxford, if not more. During this time, my stepfather passed away after dramatic years of illness. My brother Nick [Ballantyne ’06], who was in his early 20s, enjoyed the great support of many of his LCS friends. I learned that in your big adventures you must always make time for your family, and that if anyone ever tells you that something is not possible, then you should really really do it. This was the case when my PhD research showed that the education system, still struggling after residential schools did not serve northern students, and

The Grove gives you roots and it gives you wings. Be brave. Do no harm. Seek out good mentors. Commit yourself to a future where every child has the same opportunities in education you have had. Service is one of the great values LCS students bring to the world. Share this gift. Imagine what kind of world we would live in then. Today, I want to honour the parents, families and supporters who have made it possible for us all to be here today. To the Graduating Class of 2012, this is your time. Start living your dream today. We will all be here, cheering for you.

that southern students have nowhere to learn about the north. I gathered mentors and elders and for three years Grove News Summer 2012 | 7

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8 | Grove News Summer 2012

School Highlights Slo-pitch Showdown LCS graduating students of 2012 finished the year off with the annual grads vs. staff slo-pitch softball game. This is the first year in over a decade that the students have won this traditional match with a 12-11 win!

Humanity Lakefield Project. LCS Co-Head Students Sierra Peddie ’12 and Noah Rosen ’12 presented $827.35 (proceeds from May’s Clean Casuals Day). Eight LCS students, Head of School Mr. Robertson and three staff raised their hands with 1500 other students in support of this project for a single mother and her family.

Grease is the Word! In May, LCS theatre and music students entertained students, parents and the community with the highly anticipated show Grease. Directed by Greg MacPherson, with music direction by John Kraus, and supported by a large student cast, crew and live pit-band, the students made theatre magic—including fitting a 1950s-ready automobile into the theatre, and executing complex musical numbers, and stage and

Athletics Action Regatta Day was busy with three championship games. Congratulations to the 1st Boys’ Rugby Team who earned a second straight Rugby CISAA Championship; the Jr. Girls’ Soccer Team who won the 2012 CISAA Jr. Girls’ Soccer Championship at Pickering College; and the 1st Girls’ Soccer Team who celebrate their Silver CISAA medal. Great work!

scene changes.

A Hand Up—Habitat for Humanity On June 6, LCS joined other schools at Lakefield District Secondary School to launch the Habitat for

OPPOSITE (Top to Bottom) L-R: Grad versus staff annual slo-pitch match; students and staff representing LCS at Habitat for Humanity Lakefield Project Launch; Cast and Crew of Grease. ABOVE: 1st Boys’ 2012 Rugby CISAA Champions BELOW: Jr. Girls’ Soccer CISAA Champions.

Grove News Summer 2012 | 9

School Highlights Fulford at LCS

Going Grove Advancement Dinner

On Saturday, May 12, 2012, Lakefield College School

On May 15, the Advancement Department hosted the

hosted delegates from 16 Ontario independent schools

graduating class at the Going Grove Advancement

for the Spring Fulford Debate Tournament. The

Dinner to celebrate the transition to their new roles

tournament brought 64 debaters, 16 coaches, and

as LCS alumni. The grads joined visiting alumni and

50 judges to Lakefield. Forty LCS students helped to

staff in Hadden Hall courtyard to mingle and hear

organize the tournament. The theme of the conference

about their LCS world after graduation. Grove Society

was First Nations. Maurice Switzer ’63, of the Alderville

President Brett Jackman ’03, Sarah McMahon and

First Nation in southern Ontario and Director of

Struan Robertson spoke about how their bonds as a

Communications for the Union of Ontario Indians, was

class, with other alumni and with the Advancement

the guest speaker at the close of the day.

Department, will grow and strengthen. Although The Grove may change physically in upcoming years, the

Lorelei In World Premiere Performance The Lorelei Consort participated in the world premiere performance of Mother Earth, Father Sky, composed by

atmosphere and the connections will still remain.

LCS Hosts Young Round Square Conference

Mark Sirett, in Toronto this spring. The performance,

LCS hosted the 2012 YRSA conference—Find Your

which was a part of the year-end concert of the Bell’Arte

Passion, Take Action! —in April. One hundred delegates

Singers from Toronto, included the Riverdale Collegiate

from 22 schools and four countries, representing

Choral Ensemble, KoKoro Choir from Guelph, the

diverse cultures, took part. Delegates were involved

ROTM Childrens’ Choir and our own Lorelei Consort.

in experiential activities such as high ropes, wetland surveys, sustainable building, organic farming, poster-

10 | Grove News Summer 2012

making for schools in rural Tanzania, team-building

Moore and guest instructor Susie Clarke, pieces ranged

activities, social justice discussions, Aboriginal song

from solo performances to group numbers in jazz, hip

and dance, and action planning at both the local

hop, and contemporary to more unique styles such as a

and global levels. The keynote speaker was author,

Chicago piece and a Bollywood number.

philanthropist, UN child ambassador and Lakefield College School student Bilaal Rajan ’13.

Middle School Arts Night

Why Leadership Matters—Retreat The Grade 12 class had their third Leadership Retreat of the year in February; the topic was Why Leadership

Ms. Webb’s Middle School integrated arts class

Matters. Keynote speaker Anil Patel ’93 from The

hosted their annual Arts Night in May. Parents and

Framework Foundation shared his experiences and

members of the LCS community were entertained by

words of wisdom and provided concrete examples of

the Muppets, Canadian Idol and a spectacular dance

why leadership and learning about being leaders are

interpretation of the history of rock and roll. As shown

absolutely necessary beyond LCS. The presentation

throughout this year’s Arts Night, the Grade 7 and 8

included opportunities for students to ask questions.

program is full of talented artists.

Never Miss A Chance—Dance Showcase The LCS Dance Showcase this winter had over 20 different pieces, choreographed by our 22 dancers (from Grades 9 to 12) under the theme, Never Miss A Chance To Dance. With the assistance of teacher Amy

OPPOSITE (Top to Bottom) L-R: 1st Girls’ Soccer 2012 CISAA silver medal winners (see p.9); Manal Stamboulie introduces guest speaker Maurice Switzer ’63 at the Spring Fulford Debate Tournament; Going Grove Advancement Dinner, May 2012. ABOVE L-R: LCS Dancers, Never Miss a Chance Dance Showcase; Co-Head students Sierra Peddie ’12 and Noah Rosen ’12 thank keynote speaker Anil Patel ’93 at the Why Leadership Matters retreat. BELOW: 2012 Young Round Square of the Americas Conference Find Your Passion, Take Action! hosted by LCS in April.

Grove News Summer 2012 | 11

Welcome to the Robertsons! Ten years ago, Struan Robertson sat in a meeting with

school was alive and well through transition, chal-

the Headmaster of International School Bangkok and

lenge and change. It still has the Grovey feeling it did

told him that his career goal was to be the Head of

15 years ago.” This spring, Struan loved listening to

School at Lakefield College School. Recalling this

the Chapel Talks and was amazed by the Grads’ “artic-

moment, Struan remembers, “I fell in love with the

ulation of the Lakefield difference.” He is in awe of

school fifteen years ago when I was a Residential Don

the “complete dedication” of the staff, parents and

here and every career move since led to this point.”

volunteers. Struan is thankful for the wonderful

Struan received every issue of the Grove News during

welcome he received in March and the one his family

his 10 years in Bangkok, reading them to keep in

received in June. “It feels like the community has

touch and up-to-date with the happenings at The

given us a big bear hug welcome.”

Grove. Struan’s path back to Lakefield College School led him first to London, England to teach before going with Jennifer to Bangkok. Struan began in the elementary school, and then moved to the high school to teach history. When the opportunity presented, Struan moved into the role of Vice Principal of the Elementary School and then three years later became the Principal.

Sitting at the dining room table in the Head’s Residence, breakfast with the Robertsons is a special time. Each member of the family talked excitedly about their new home. Aidan thinks that LCS is “awesome,” Molly described it as “big” and Jack excitedly exclaimed, “The campus is huge, and everyone’s so friendly.” When asked if there were things in Bangkok that they would miss, the children said that

His memories of Bangkok are filled with remarkable

they would miss the hot weather, but they would not

travel and the birth of his three children, Jack, Molly

miss the traffic or the poisonous snakes.

and Aidan. Struan kept in touch with Canada and LCS through recruiting trips, professional development and their summers at the cottage (1.5 hours from Lakefield). While in Bangkok, the Robertsons experienced some of the most challenging events in the country’s recent history. The tsunami, a political coup, the airport seizure, the Red Shirt riots and the

For Jennifer Robertson, the move to Lakefield has been filled with excitement and wonder. She is thankful for how “incredibly welcoming” the LCS community has been, from flowers on the table to meals in the freezer. “People have really gone out of their way to welcome us.”

most recent flooding were just a few of the things they

The Robertsons look forward to so much in this

witnessed during their time in Thailand. Gazing out

coming year. From the changing of the seasons to the

the window of the Head’s Office into the grove, Struan

first snowfall, this will be a year of firsts for Aidan,

smiles and says that he is looking forward to “quieter

Molly and Jack Robertson. Lucky LCS—we get to

times.”

experience all of these firsts with them!

Upon arriving at the school this academic year, Struan says that his first impression was that the “spirit of the

12 | Grove News Summer 2012

KERRIE HANSLER

Grove News Summer 2012 | 13

Ken Sunderland Retires After 32 Years at LCS “When you needed someone to talk with, he was always there to listen, as good friends do, and provide a dose of reality or wisdom…he quietly and caringly encouraged each of us to feel life, to enjoy it, and to grow from our successes and failures.” LCS 32 - TCS 0. This is not the result of a rugby game, but rather refers to the fact that in April 1980 Ken Sunderland went for an interview first at Trinity College School and a week later at Lakefield College School. Ken recalls vividly the warm and friendly welcome that he and Linda received from Doc McCubbin and John and Bid Milligan when they arrived at The Grove for the interview. It was after this interview that Ken and Linda chose The Grove as their future home and LCS emerged as the clear winner! Four months later they arrived on campus with their car and trailer and, as they pulled up in front of Memorial House, a smiling Ted Ingram was there to meet them. Ted began immediately to help them unload their furniture and to carry it upstairs to their apartment. It was these two events at the beginning of their career at The Grove that impressed Ken and Linda so deeply, and they knew then that they were joining a very special community. The generosity, kindness and compassion that Ken experienced among his fellow teachers in his first years are the values that he feels sum up and define the spirit of The Grove. He fondly recalls working with “The Greats”—Bryan Jones, Andy Harris, Bubs MacRae, Richard Hayman and Bob Armstrong—who mentored him in his early years and who inculcated in him the values of the school. One need only spend a short while in conversation with Ken to see that he feels passionately that these values are what make LCS such a special place. It is these values that have served to guide him in every situation he has encountered in his career as a teacher, Head of House and coach. Ken has worn many hats during his time at LCS. He has taught math and all of the sciences except biology. In his own words he feels that he has “coached everything”—cricket, alpine skiing, sailing, running, boys’ and girls’ soccer. He was Athletic Director in the early nineties and was instrumental in setting 14 | Grove News Summer 2012

up the athletic program for girls. Ken served as Day

For the first time in 53 years, Ken will not be going to

Boy Housemaster until 1984 when he became Head of

school in September! So what will he do with his free

House in Fort Smith. In 1991, he and Linda, along with

time? Ken is emphatic when he says that he is “leaving

their four children Mary ’97, Mark ’00, Laura ’01 and

the slate clear.” He enjoys bird-watching, woodworking,

Katherine ’03, were the first occupants of Rashleigh

beekeeping and, more recently, ballroom dancing with

House, where they lived until 2005. In the 25 years

Linda. He brings to these activities all the intensity and

that they lived on campus, Ken and Linda have been

desire to grow and learn that have characterized his

“parents” to over 300 boys!

career as a teacher. Of course, he may also be spotted

As a Head of House, Ken had the reputation of being in the right place at the right time when students were doing the wrong thing. According to Cameron Ainsworth-Vincze ’96, who lived in Rashleigh House and served as student Head of House, Ken was also very approachable. “When you needed someone to talk with, he was always there to listen, as good friends do, and provide a dose of reality or wisdom…he quietly and caringly encouraged each of us to feel life, to enjoy it, and to grow from our successes and failures.”

cruising the roads on his Yamaha Road Star 1600 motorcycle. All of this he will do when he wants to! Anyone who knows Ken well can be sure that he will not be bored, and we wish him well as he begins a whole new adventure. DAVID WALSH OPPOSITE: Ken and Linda Sunderland with their children (L-R): Jeff Cooper (son-in-law), Laura ’01, Katherine ’03 and Mark ’00 at Closing 2012. BELOW: Ken participating in the annual Prince Andrew Run during Lakefield College School’s Fall Fair, 2011.

In talking about his experiences as a Head of House, Ken always emphasizes the huge role that his wife Linda played in helping him with his responsibilities. In Ken’s absence she would often talk with the parents of boarders on the phone or lend an ear to a student who needed someone to talk to. Ken cannot imagine having done his job in the residence without Linda’s support and her willingness to become involved in the care of the students. Is Ken Sunderland really the seventh smartest man in Canada? If so, how did he come to receive this distinction? Spoiler alert! Ken has finally revealed how he earned this honour. Cameron Ainsworth-Vincze had a role to play in this story as student Head of House for Ken in Rashleigh House. As part of the orientation for new boarders Cameron and his roommate Earl Dancel ’96 were talking to the new boys about life in residence. When asked to describe what kind of person Ken Sunderland was, they concluded by saying, “Mr. Sunderland is the seventh smartest man in Canada.” Later that day Cameron began to feel that maybe they shouldn’t have made that remark, so he went to Ken and told him what he had said. Ken laughed it off and reassured Cameron, who had heard rumours of Ken’s amazing intellect over the course of his time at The Grove, that it was a harmless joke that no one would remember for long. Little did they know that this joke would take on a life of its own and become an urban legend! Grove News Summer 2012 | 15

Finding the Sacred Growing up in the Peterborough area, I always marvelled at the beauty of Lakefield College School and its sprawling campus. Once I became a faculty member, I quickly fell in love with all of the unique and special places within the campus. Now I have the unique privilege of living here in Memorial House and raising my family. I feel that my boys and all campus kids are the luckiest children in the world to call this remarkable 315 acre campus, with 3,899 feet of shoreline along Lake Katchewanooka, their home. The spaces that make up the campus hold a special place in the hearts and minds of staff, students, parents and alumni. When asked, each member of the Grove community responds with a distinct place on campus that is sacred to them. Whether it is a place where the whole community gathers or a setting for silent reflection, the environment we find peace and power in is different for each of us. Earlier this year, Head of Cooper House Garret Hart gave a Chapel Speech about his sacred space, the Chapel. The motivation for his speech was to help our student population understand more about the Chapel and its revered place in our school. In his talk he said, “This place is the heart and soul of our community. Beyond the physical building, artifacts and 16 | Grove News Summer 2012

“My sacred space has always been the school’s front entrance courtyard. The space is a natural envelope, the red door is inviting, if not a little mysterious, and the combination of sacred, residential and business uses gives that location a panorama of some of the most important elements of LCS. “When the wind is howling there is an immediate calming when you enter that space. Standing just outside the Chapel doors during the many school events has given me ample opportunity to look around and become familiar with plants, stone and structure. The cycling of the seasons in this space brings changes that mirror life at The Grove. A glance into that one location can tell you so much about the rhythm of the school at that moment in time. The hidden doorway to the stairwell in the Chapel that is neatly tucked around the corner, just out of sight, reminds me of imagination games played with [my son] Cody when I was a stay-at-home-dad in Utah. The many pictures of the courtyard from the school archives that I use in class remind us that great change is sometimes cosmetic. The stone-faced hockey players from the 1920s standing just in front of the main entrance are no different from the young men and women who occupy the very same location today for their athletic photos. “The courtyard is a time capsule that allows me to feel a connection with all those who came before me. I imagine that for generations, folks just like me have stood in that space and wondered what came before.” BRUCE MCMAHON Grove News Summer 2012 | 17

symbols that give the Chapel its shape, is an understanding of what Chapel offers us in terms of learning and growing in this community. It is more than just a place to meet in the morning. This is the place where we develop and explore our values and standards. Chapel is a place that requires the best in each of us.” Reflecting on the Chapel more recently, Hart said, “There is a sanctity of this place that we need to respect and learn in order to appreciate what the Chapel is to us at The Grove.” The Reverend Glenn Empey remarks that, “the Chapel at The Grove is a place that is special because it is a sacred place. It symbolizes the presence of the sacred at the heart of community.” Veteran faculty member Mike Arsenault agrees; the Chapel is also his sacred place stating, “it has been sacred to me since the first time I stepped into it, 31 years ago.” The call of a loon, the sound of ice cracking under the weight of winter snow, the waves lapping against the dock—these sounds evoke strong emotions for the Grove community. For current student Miles Robertson ’13, the waterfront is a place to “relax in my busy day, and think of how grateful I am to be living such a privileged life and go to an amazing school like LCS.”

“The waterfront at The Grove makes this school unique and different from any other school I know, have been to, or have heard of. When I’m there, I feel like I’m on vacation and not on a school campus.” SAMIER KAMAR 18 | Grove News Summer 2012

“My sacred space is out on the lake in a kayak or canoe. Early in the morning is my favourite time; sometimes I safety boat for swimmers (usually Amy Hollingsworth preparing for a triathlon, or students getting ready for the Ondaatje Challenge swim or canoe race). Being out in my kayak alone is also a treat—it is not uncommon to see deer and rabbits as I set up my boat at the shore. On the water, gray and blue heron, bald eagles, mallard ducks, Canadian geese and loons often keep me company. The occasional jumping fish can give me a good startle and then a chuckle, as I am sure the animals are laughing at me too. Floating or drifting on the lake is calming. The mornings when the water is smooth as glass are always magical.” SUSAN ARMSTRONG

Grove News Summer 2012 | 19

20 | Grove News Summer 2012

For alumnus Jeremiah Hogan ’09, the LCS waterfront gave him a place to escape. He reflects, “Once I was out on the water nothing else mattered, I was free of any of my problems, and when I came back I always felt refreshed.” Faculty member Melissa Rathier says, “so

sacred space is the basketball court

Bettencourt begins and ends his

in McEwen Gym. He says:

day there. He says, “One would not think of a parking lot as a sacred

many of my favorite memories at

“I love walking into the gym with

Lakefield College School are from my

the crisp winter air at the window,

times at the waterfront. I love the way

the smell of the basketballs on

the sun sets over it and how calm it

the rack, the sounds of shoes

is at 7:00 a.m. I could spend hours

squeaking, nets swishing, and

For alumnus David Lin ’80, his

sitting there and be totally happy.”

intermittent bounces. It’s almost

sacred space is the hill overlooking

like you can taste the hardwood

Lake Katchewanooka because that

floor as you run over the lines

is where he used to play his cello.

When asked, Head of School Struan Robertson says that the academic block is his sacred space. It is where the majority of each student’s and faculty member’s days are spent teaching, learning, sharing and growing.

outlining all the sports played on the court, calmly searching to hit the seams and gaps in the defence, things unfolding like a movie in slow motion. But what makes this court truly sacred is when all the

Within this part of the school

sweat that is poured out onto that

lie many spaces that the Grove

floor results in a team achieving

community finds sacred. From the

beyond what anyone thought they

bay window in the art room (Kate

could—the moment they started to

Carder-Thompson, former faculty

believe in something bigger than

member) to the music room (Allison

self, it’s the moment they started to

Cameron ’09) and the theatre

believe in one another.”

(Tracey-Lee (Smyth) Eddy ’99), these spaces hold special memories.

Each corner of the campus offers something special. Richard Hagg

For current student Daniel

remarks that one of his sacred

Zahradnik ’14, his sacred space is

spaces is the top of the Nordic

the day student boys’ locker room.

skiing trail looking west, while Joe

It is a place to “chill during break

Bettencourt finds time to gather

and lunch.” He continues, “The day

his thoughts in the main parking

student locker room is essentially

lot of the school, enjoying the

a breeding ground for success and

view of the Chapel and the many

lifelong happiness. So far, it is my

mature trees we fondly refer to as

Lakefield difference.” For faculty

“The Grove.” Arriving early in the

member and coach Derek Doucet, his

morning to a still, quiet campus,

space, but for me, it is just that—a place of reflection, thoughtfulness and peace.”

As a teacher and Head of House, I have so many special places. But, as a mother of young children growing up on campus, my sacred spaces are the walkways and roadways of LCS. It is on these “paths” that my boys run to see students they know and love, where faculty members stop what they are doing to play, where my busy day can be stopped by just one butterfly. No matter how far you travel or how many other places in the world you have been to, the sacredness of The Grove and all its unique and special parts are truly remarkable. The sights, sounds and smells remind each of us of the sanctity of living, working and learning in this extraordinary place. KERRIE HANSLER

Grove News Summer 2012 | 21

LEAVING A

LEGACY

at Lakefield College School

Legacy gifts are a unique and extraordinary opportunity to participate in the future vision for The Grove. Providing a bequest in your will costs nothing now, yet it may give you a great deal of satisfaction to know that your contribution will live on. Just like alumni John Frewer ’34, Rickey Crang ’54, and Harold Williams ’57, you can make a difference.

22 | Grove News Summer 2012

The 1879 Society was established to honour and recognize alumni, parents and friends who have chosen to enhance opportunities for future generations of Grove students by including Lakefield College School in their estate planning.

“My heart has always been with the school.” John Frewer ’34

~ JOHN FREWER ’34 (to the LCS Board, 2002)

with his precious bugle—the one used to play “The Last Post” at Captain T.W.B. ‘Spike’ Marling’s funeral in 1935.

Even though John Delafosse Frewer graduated from Lakefield Preparatory School in 1934, he maintained an

In 1997, by including a gift in his will, John became one

active connection to the school for the rest of his life—

of the founding members of the Heritage Society now

returning to the campus countless times as an alumnus,

known as the 1879 Society. Always looking ahead, John

parent, governor and trustee.

and his wife shared their affection for The Grove and knew that an unrestricted gift of this type had the poten-

Following his arrival as a young boy in 1929, he

tial to make a significant difference to the school. It was

immersed himself in numerous activities during his time

also John’s hope that others, like him, would be inspired

at LPS: cricket, hockey, drama and as a bugler in the

to make similar philanthropic commitments to Lakefield

Cadet Corps band. In fact, in 1996 John gifted The Grove

College School. Grove News Summer 2012 | 23

LEFT: Rickey Crang circa 1954. BELOW (L-R): Harold Williams circa 1957 and John Frewer circa 1933.

LCS would have the strategies and resources necessary to thrive throughout the final decade of the 20th century and beyond. In 1997, nine years after his death, and as a result of a gift in his will, The James Harold (Rickey) Crang Jr. Memorial Bursary was introduced at Closing. In consultation with Rickey’s family the following citation, that continues to guide the bursary’s distribution, was created: John and his wife Joyce passed away within six months of one another and in 2004 their legacy offering was gifted to LCS. This act of generosity, honouring John’s love and devotion to the school, will continue to impact the lives of students, today and for years to come.

“This bursary will help provide financial assistance in perpetuity to deserving students in need. It is hoped that the recipients of the Crang Bursary will share Rickey’s deep love and devotion to The Grove.”

Rickey Crang ’54

Since its inception 15 years ago, approximately

When J.H. “Rickey” Crang passed

60 young people have benefited directly from

away in 1988, he had already made

this bursary and more than $500,000 has been

a significant impact on Lakefield

distributed. Endowing Rickey’s $1 million

College School. He was a zealous

bequest has ensured that deserving young

supporter, caring deeply about

people will have an opportunity to attend, and

the future of the school and the

benefit from, a Grove education in perpetuity.

generations of young people who would experience it. In addition, he worked tirelessly with other LCS alumni and volunteers to ensure that

24 | Grove News Summer 2012

As a recent recipient of The James Harold (Rickey) Crang Jr. Memorial Bursary so eloquently stated,

“Without you and this bursary, Lakefield College School wouldn’t have been an option. I can’t picture my life without this place, and I owe it to you for allowing me to be part of the magnificent LCS community. Thank you so much.”

Harold Williams ’57 Like many Lakefield College School alumni, Harold was passionate about the waterfront. Arriving at The Grove in 1951 from his home in Bermuda, it was inevitable that he would be drawn to the heart of the Lakefield College School campus—Lake Katchewanooka. Harold loved to sail. Following his graduation from LCS, Harold chose to remain in Ontario. He was an active member in his Campbellford, Ontario community and served for a number of years in local municipal government. Throughout his lifetime, Harold maintained close ties to the school and many of his classmates. In 2004, following Harold’s death, his family approached the school and indicated that it was Harold’s wish that his final gift to The Grove be used in a manner that would enhance either the waterfront or waterfront programs. As a result, his generosity provided the funds needed to complete the reconstruction of the windsurfing hut. Since then, countless students continue to enjoy the waterfront and the many sports it provides. It is because of Harold Williams’ generous gift and his affection for The Grove’s unique waterfront that our students now have access to a new and well-built windsurfing hut facility.

ABOVE: Harold Williams sailing at The Grove circa 1957

What Will Your Legacy Be? If you are interested in discussing how your intentions could enhance the future of Lakefield College School and impact tomorrow’s students, please contact: Theresa Butler-Porter, CFRE, Philanthropic Relations at 705.652.3324 ext. 329 or tbutlerporter@lcs.on.ca Or visit www.lcs.on.ca/plannedgiving Grove News Summer 2012 | 25

26 | Grove News Summer 2012

All in a Day’s Work Sand Sculpting World Champion Andy Briggs ’83 Andy Briggs ’83 has taken his passion and interests to a new level. He has turned playing in the sand into a far more impressive endeavour while hosting impressive musical acts in his home for friends to enjoy, all while working as a financial comptroller for various companies. After graduating from The Grove, Andy attended the University of Victoria to study art, where he discovered the world of sand sculpting. After filling in for his sister at a local beach competition, Andy spent the next twenty years travelling the world while creating astounding and ingenious sand art sculptures. There are countless sand sculpting competitions throughout the world, and Andy has managed to capture 20 first-place wins. He is currently part of the Sand Boxers, a team of sand sculpture artists based in Victoria, British Columbia with whom he has taken home seven of nine wins. In addition to competitions, Andy travels the world creating sand displays for companies in places such as Cape Town, South Africa, Romania, Germany and across the United States. To create one of these showpieces, the team will develop an idea, then create “mesquettes,” clay models of the sculpture in preparation to plan the time and work involved in creating the display, and then build the actual sculpture out of sand. In Andy’s sand sculpting career, he has managed to capture two Guinness World Records and has won first place ten times in World Championships. These displays, which are made simply of sand and water, can stand for up to a couple of months outside if properly sealed, and longer if created inside. He has taken what many do on a summer holiday, on a very small scale, to enormous, detailed, imaginative and impressive art pieces. Another passion of Andy’s is music. Andy created Victoria House Concert B, through which he has been able to host countless artists in his house for intimate live concerts for his friends, now reaching out through Facebook for interested music fans near Victoria. Victoria House Concert B began as a way for Andy to support the live music industry while entertaining. Andy finds bands that interest him, and that he thinks his friends will want to hear. While enjoying the music, Andy is also giving back to his local music community. The musicians who have performed at his house have signed a guitar which is to be auctioned off, with all the proceeds to help local children who cannot afford music lessons or instruments. Andy is giving back to his community, sharing happiness through his art and music, and doing what makes him happy—all things that many of us strive for in our own lives. STEPHANIE WILCOX ’03 Grove News Summer 2012 | 27

Grove Spirit Alive and Well! The Andy Harris Cup: Grove Golf Tournament The Grove spirit was alive and

College School Financial

Skill Hole

well on Wednesday, June 20 at

Assistance Program—offering

Deer Creek Golf Club for the

opportunities to students. In

Andy Harris Cup: Grove Golf

addition, because of an offer from

Aramark The Grove Society The Hickey Family

Tournament. The sunny, hot day

a very generous anonymous LCS

was warmly welcomed by all the

alumnus to “match every gift made

golfers and volunteers. While the

to Financial Assistance by June

golfers stayed hydrated throughout

30, 2012,” the estimated proceeds

the day, they had smiles on their

from the tournament have been

faces—they knew it was all about

doubled, netting an estimated

the students (…and enjoying a

$48,000!

game with friends!). The Grove Society would like to thank everyone who participated in, volunteered for, donated to and sponsored this year’s event. This year’s winning team, presented their trophies by Andy Harris’ son, Tony Harris ’82, were Phil Soper ’82, Dave MacNicol ’81 and Ron Pearson ’82. The proceeds from the tournament

Thank you to all of our tournament sponsors: Power Carts Ellwood Hamilton Bus Lines

Putting Competition

Hole Cam Tran Co. Ltd. Class of 1999 Class of 2000 Class of 2001 Class of 2003 Coach Canada Graydor Flooring Ltd. The Howe Family ManuLife Bank The Orr Family Ricarts The Scrocchi Family Trent Health in Motion The Village Inn

RBC Dominion Securities, Steve Henderson

Closest to Hole The Morris Family The Needler Family

will help to support the Lakefield New Location! Oakridge Golf Club, Port Perry

An Evening of Revelry—Mardi Gras Celebration The Grove Society: Parent Chapter hosted a Mardi Gras celebration on March 31 at the Peterborough Golf and Country Club. With over 100 parents (past, current, and incoming) and staff, it was a night to remember, full of beads, masks, Creole food, King’s cake, Dixieland jazz, doubloon tossing, bourbon tasting, a live band and all the fun you could imagine having. Throughout dinner, tables put together songs or poems about the evening; one standout performance was from the new Head of School, Struan Robertson, and his tablemates with their inventive and entertaining song.

Black Tie Affair—Alumni Dinner The Grove Society Alumni Dinner took place on February 29 at the Royal York Hotel in Toronto. It was a great event which saw 24 graduating classes represented, from the Class of 1949 all the way to the Class of 2011. It was a fantastic night full of stories throughout the years, a presentation by Al Pace ’77 about his LCS canoe trips in the north, shared memories and hopes for the future. It was a great way for the recent graduates to learn about The Grove when it was all boys, and for the older alumni to hear more recent accounts of the school. OPPOSITE Top Row (L-R): Winners of the 2012 Andy Harris Cup: Phil Soper ’82, Dave MacNicol ’81, Tony Harris ’82 (presenter) and Ron Pearson ’82; Enjoying the Andy Harris Cup Grove Golf Tournament, Tony ’63 and Vicki Pullen, Leslie Wilson and Shelley Davis. Middle Row: Mardi Gras celebration event volunteer committee members, Sandra Welch, Christy Lehman, Ruth Kaller, Julie Andras, Jackie Sarkis, Event Chair Jennifer Scates and Cara Westcott. Bottom Row (L-R): Enjoying the Alumni Dinner at the Royal York Hotel: Paige Mackey ’11, Jesse Anglesey ’11, and Brooke Dunford ’11; and Hugh Macdonnell ’85, James Hyslop ’85, Andrew Clarke ’85, and John Guest ’85.

28 | Grove News Summer 2012

Grove News Summer 2012 | 29

Class News 1950s The London (ON) Real Property Section of the OBA recently awarded Kim Little ’53 (Price & Ewer LLP) with an OBA Award for Excellence in Real Estate.

1960s Gord Hunter ’63 shared a recent Grove encounter: “Gavin Rainie ’57 and I recently met at an alumni event in Sarasota, Florida. LCS didn’t have an alumni event in Sarasota? That’s right. It was a Dalhousie University event. I had

The Tenth Biennial 1968 Old Boys’ Reunion Planning started in March for the tenth biennial 1968 Old Boys’ Reunion. The first was in Lakefield followed by venues in classmates’ home cities in Halifax, Vancouver, London (UK) and Calgary. This year’s event was special, held at The Grove and joined by the ’69 and ’70 guys—with guests coming from as far away as Chile and England. It was fitting to include the Classes of 1969 and 1970 because of the shared fond memories of life at The Grove: football, hockey, cricket, House Plays, chemistry lab, Latin class, and Harris, Armstrong, Griff, McDougall, Matthews, BJ, Ticker Townsend, Gerry Staples, Booty Smith, Bill Rashleigh, Hoggie Ketchum, Ben Whitney, Richard Hayman and their wives. They were such good times!

no idea he was a Dal grad and of course he didn’t even know I existed. I knew his name rang a bell but wasn’t sure from where so I kept asking him questions. Did he work in Ottawa? Was he involved in politics? Then it clicked: ‘What high school did you attend?’ He looked at me as if I would have never heard of it. ‘Lakefield College School,’ he replied. Then we were off to the races with some quick reminiscences. It was a nice coincidence.”

The House Play, written especially for this event, took the group back to The Grove in

John Fraser ’64 published a new book,

the ’60s. The tributes to Andy Harris, Bob Armstrong and John McDougall were partic-

The Secret of the Crown: Canada’s Affair

ularly poignant with Ann Harris, Jean Armstrong and Maureen McDougall there to

with Royalty.

share them. “Thanks for the stories we had forgotten, and the ones we have retold countless

1970s

times,” said organizers Bill Morris ’70 and Bill Gastle ’68. “Some of you we had not

John Lawrence ’71 celebrated the 100th

seen since we graduated. When you live together, you become family. And the ladies

anniversary of Grace Church on the Hill,

in our lives were just as much a part of the revelry.”

Toronto, with LCS classmate Canon Peter Walker ’71 and The Most Reverend Andrew Hutchison ’50. Bruce Parke ’74 has semi-retired. He and his wife Gale relocated to Western Canada. Their four children (Adam, Carrie, Cindy and Heather) are married and they are proud grandparents of one grandson and three granddaughters (so far). Life doesn’t get much better. Opposite (L-R): John Lawrence ’71, The Most Reverend Andrew Hutchison ’50, and Canon Peter Walker ’71.

30 | Grove News Summer 2012

Centennial 1979ers Bill Godson and John Turner stayed at the Georgia home of classmate Steve Morris and took in the Masters Golf Tournament in April (all three have cottages north of the school on Stoney Lake). “A big thanks to our super host for enabling a mighty tick off the bucket list.”

1980s Denise and Warren Jones ’88 are thrilled to announce the birth of their daughter, Grace Juditta Jones, born on Saturday, April 7, 2012 in Toronto. ABOVE: LCS Alumni returned in April for the 1970s Old Boys’ Reunion at The Grove.

Grace Jones

ABOVE: Six Grove boys from the Class of 1981 recently got together to celebrate 50 years young by going heliskiing in BC. (L-R) Youthful powder hounds, Keith Drummond ’81 (from Seattle), Phil Dyment ’81 (from Mississauga), Ross Little ’81 (Oakville), Stephen Hill ’81 (Rossland, BC), Ian Macdonell ’81 (Toronto), and Jeff Hanna ’81 (from Canmore, AB).

Frank Chow ’87 visited The Grove in July with his wife Lily and children Ian and Claire.

1990s Ian Carswell ’93 was inducted at the Harvard Athletic Hall of Fame for Track and Field in May. He was joined by a number of LCS friends there to celebrate with him: Anil Patel ’93, Mike Laidlaw ’93, Stephen Patterson ’93, Brendan ABOVE (L-R): Anil Patel ’93, Mike Laidlaw ’93, Ian Carswell ’93, Stephen Patterson ’93, Brendan Pennylegion ’93, James Lamont ’93 and Lindsay Carswell ‘91 at the Harvard Athletic Hall of fame during Ian’s induction.

Pennylegion ’93, James Lamont ’93 and Lindsay Carswell ’91. Grove News Summer 2012 | 31

(L-R) Timothy Thiessen, Steve Thiessen, Joshua Thiessen, Mary Thiessen, Fiona (Atherton) Thiessen ’94 and Leah (Belamy) Swales ’94; with (front row) Anna Thiessen and Daniel Swales during a visit to LCS.

Anil Patel ’93 and Megan Hazell wedding. (L-R): Mike Laidlaw ’93, Brendan Pennylegion ’93, Ian Carswell ’93, Steve Fagan ’93, Rich Smit ’93, Anil (groom) and Megan (bride), Kelly (Dimitroff) Maiese ’93, Nicole (Bendaly) Groves ’93, Christine McKenzie ’93, James Lamont ’93, Steve Patterson ’93, Craig Willis ’93

Anil Patel ’93 married Megan Hazell in Port Hope, Ontario on Saturday, July 7, 2012. Among their 200 guests, The Grove was well represented with many alumni in attendance.

Baby Violet Ainsworth-Vincze

Fiona (Atherton) Thiessen ’94 and Leah (Belamy) Swales ’94 enjoyed a family visit to the LCS campus on May 29, 2012 which included a tour of the campus and an impromptu picnic lunch at the Boathouse during a thunderstorm! Cameron Ainsworth-Vincze ’96 and Julia Porter are excited to share that Ava has a new sister. Violet Verna Porter Vincze was born on August 13, 2012 in Toronto. Garret and Jessica (Fitchette) Hart ’97 along with big sister Isla were thrilled to welcome Jameson Neill Hart into their family on June 20, 2012.

Garret and Jessica (Fitchette) Hart ‘97 with Isla and baby Jameson

Welcome back to Jon Holmes ’97 who has joined the Admissions Office at Lakefield College School as the new Assistant Director of Enrollment. Nick and Amanda (Soder) Ethier ’98 are thrilled to introduce their new baby boy, Samuel Jack Maurice, born March 28, 2012 in Ottawa. Barry Chapman and Kara-Lynne BigCanoe ’99 are thrilled to announce the arrival of their “little canoe”. Aspen Lily BigCanoe Chapman was born on May 15, 2012.

32 | Grove News Summer 2012

Nick and Amanda (Soder) Ethier ’98 with baby Samuel

William Douglas Cooper was born on December 21, 2011 to Mark and Jenny (McRae) Cooper ’99. Grandparents, Val and John McRae ’70, Uncles Duncan ’01, Cameron ’03 and aunt Gill McRae ’06 are delighted with the addition to the family.

2000s After graduating from Acadia University, Chantelle Court ’00 went to teacher’s college in Auckland, New Zealand. She is married to a Kiwi (for almost five years!) and has a son (2) and Kara-Lynne BigCanoe ’99 with Aspen Lily BigCanoe

daughter (1). Both keep her insanely busy so she has not been back to teaching since becoming a mom. In March, her family relocated back to Toronto. Tara Gilchrist ’00 graduated from the Nova Scotia College of Art & Design in Halifax in 2005. After a few years living in Toronto, she moved north to start up her own pottery studio and gallery space. She is living and working out of a refurbished barn near her family cottage in Dorset, Ontario. When Tara is not in the studio making pots, cappuccinos and listening to reggae, she is “rocking-out” learning the ukulele, travelling during winter (to places like Colorado, Vietnam and Cambodia) and living with an open heart.

Taylor (McRae) Cooper with baby William

LCS Congratulates Two “Royal” Volunteers! Please join us in congratulating two of our community members, Gretchen Ross and Carol Corner, who both were awarded the prestigious Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal this past spring. In honour of dedicated volunteer service in their communities, Gretchen (school trustee and wife of Donald Ross ’48) and Carol (longtime LCS volunteer and mother of Mike ’03, Alison ’07 and April Corner ’09) were both selected as recipients of the Jubilee Medal, created to mark the 60th anniversary of Her Majesty’s accession to the throne. Specifically, the Canadian medal intends to “honour significant contributions and achievements by Canadians.” Both women are well known in the LCS community and beyond for their long-standing commitment to volunteerism and philanthropy.

Grove News Summer 2012 | 33

ABOVE (L): Olympic sailors Greg Douglas ’08 (fourth from left) and David Wright ’00 (second from right) at the Closing Ceremonies of the London 2012 Olympics Games. (R) Chris Horton ’08 and Lauren Schumacher ’08 in London to cheer on their friends Greg and David during the Olympics.

2000s Serge Kalloghlian ’00 is now living in Toronto and working at Siskinds LLP where he practises law and specializes in securities class action lawsuits. Serge was Canada’s youngest lawyer to be court-appointed counsel in a class action suit and has been involved in a number of high profile cases. This fall, Laura Lawson ’00 will begin her final year of medical school at McMaster University in Hamilton. Laura is pursuing medicine as a second career after a decade in theatre, film and dance in Toronto. Laura promises to attend

Nadia and Justin Thompson ’00 with baby Jackson

a Toronto area event in the near future to see everyone and catch up! Nadia and Justin Thompson ’00 are thrilled to announce the birth of Jackson William Thompson on July 10, 2012. The family is doing very well and over-the-top excited! David Wright ’00 represented Canada at the London 2012 Olympics in the Laser sailing class. David, an eight-year member of the Canadian Sailing Team in the Men’s Single Handed Division, confirmed his position on the team with his first World Cup podium performance and remained in a strong position, finishing up his first Olympic Games in 23rd

Shannon Barnett ’01 and Joe Meland Wedding

position. Cameron Bishop ’01 has recently joined the Shannon Barnett ’01 and Joe Meland were married May 12,

Toronto office of Alexa Translations in their

2012 in Kiawah Island, South Carolina. The couple currently

Business Development and Sales Division.

lives in Brooklyn, New York.

Referrals are welcome! Contact Cam at: cameron.bishop@alexatranslations.com

34 | Grove News Summer 2012

Lorcan Kilmartin ’02 and Caroline Rytka were married on April 28, 2012 at the Grace Bay Club in Turks & Caicos. The couple were joined by LCS alumni Ailish Kilmartin ’00 (sister), Cam Crawford ’02 (groomsman) and Tim McLaughlin ’02. Jason Allingham ’03 and Ashley Tyler were married on July 7, 2012 in Bobcaygeon, Ontario. Erica Allingham ’07 was Maid of Honour, Kilmartin/Rytka wedding: Tim McLaughlin ’02, Caroline Rytka, Lorcan Kilmartin ’02, Cam Crawford ’02 and Ailish Kilmartin ’00

Ryan Allinghan ’08 the Best Man; Roy McLaughlin ’03 was a groomsman and Dan Mongeon ’03, the Master of Ceremonies. Darren Bishop ’03 hosted a barbecue in Toronto in July to bring awareness to OneMatch.com— encouraging as many people as possible to volunteer to be ‘typed’ for bone marrow to help support fellow Canadians, like him, continuing their battle with cancer and specifically leukemia. Jennifer Thompson ’03 married Michael

Jason Allingham ’03 and Ashley Tyler wedding

Robinson on June 16, 2012 in Penetanguishene, Ontario. Jennifer’s brother, Justin Thompson ’00 was a groomsman and Jennifer Macko ’03 was a bridesmaid. Ned Loach ’04 is proud to announce the launch of his immersive cinema company—360 Screenings—which gives its audience the opportunity to experience film in an entirely new and immersive way by combining elements of live theatre with the screening of a popular film from the past 30 years. The venue, which

Jennifer Thompson ’03 and Michael Robinson wedding

could be a loft, a field, or any unique location, is chosen based on the setting of the film being screened and is completely furnished to reflect the film’s environment, and features actors portraying key characters. Step into the film. www.360screenings.com Alanna (Gravely) ’03 and Justin van Niekerk, along with proud uncles Mark Gravely ’01 and Tim Gravely ’97, are thrilled to announce the birth of their first baby, Nathan William, on August 4, 2012 in Halifax.

Alanna (Gravely) ’03 and Justin van Niekerk with baby Nathan

Grove News Summer 2012 | 35

The Grove had a surprise visit from Mojtaba Pakzad ’07 and his father Khosrow who gifted the school with the Iranian flag which now hangs with pride amongst the many flags in the Dining Hall representing our international alumni.

Mojtaba Pakzad ’07, his father Khosrow and Richard Johnston at The Grove.

Alison Corner ’07 returned from Brazil in August after working at a language school primarily teaching English to children and business people. Greg Douglas ’08 (see p.34) sailed in the Finn sailing classification for Canada at the London 2012 Olympics. This was Greg’s second trip to the Olympics after competing for Barbados in 2008. He finished the competition in 15th place, and is looking forward to Rio in 2016!

2010s

Staff members Carrie (Murray) and Rory Gilfillan with babies Finn Everet and Lucy Rain and big brother Pendleton

Cody Ceci ’11 was picked 15th overall by the Ottawa Senators in the NHL Draft Pick in June. Bruce Mackie ’11 won the coveted Junior Pro title at the International Surf Festival held at Toco, Trinidad in May. This event is one of the Western Atlantic Surf Series Qualifiers for 2012.

Staff Rory and Carrie (Murray) Gilfillan along with big brother Pendleton welcomed two new family additions, Finn Everet and Lucy Rain Gilfillan on

Health Centre’s Shannon Hamilton and Family

February 16, 2012. Henry Reid Hamilton was born March 26, 2012 to Shannon and Scott Hamilton. Ben, Claire and Allie are really excited about the addition of their new baby brother. Congratulations to Tia Saley and Graham Vogt as they welcomed their daughter Makena Ember Vogt Saley on May 4, 2012.

Staff member Graham Vogt and Tia Saley and with baby Makena

36 | Grove News Summer 2012

In Our Memories Florence (Flo) Ryder on February 29, 2012 in Toronto. Daughter of Alexander Mackenzie; Mother of Tom Ryder ’53, Alick Ryder ’55; Grandmother of John Ryder ’77, Alick Watson ’81, and Ian Watson ’77; Great Grandmother of Matthew Ryder ’08, Jordan Ryder ’13 and Michael Pooley ’01. George Charles Warren ’40 on March 16, 2011. Jlee Lewis on March 18, 2012 in Peterborough. Mother of Michael Zahradnik ’11 and Daniel Zahradnik ’14. Dr. Michael Duncan Colterjohn ’75 on March 28, 2012 in Caledon East, ON. John Dunlop ’59 on April 25, 2012 in Ottawa, ON. John White on May 17, 2012 in Toronto, ON. Father of Chris White ’90 and Freeman Wallace ’92. George Slipp on May 21, 2012 in Sarasota, Florida. Father of Mark Slipp ’82; Grandfather of Laura Slipp ’08 and Marshall Slipp ’10. Marjorie Godson in Peterborough on June 1, 2012. Mother of William (Bill) Godson ’79. Barry Duncan ’54 on June 6, 2012 in Toronto, ON. Bob Langmuir ’46 on June 29, 2012 in Toronto, ON. Father of Gavin Langmuir ’74; Brother of Ken Langmuir ’41 and William Langmuir ’43 (deceased); Uncle of Peter Langmuir ’66. Helen Loetta Nesbitt on June 30, 2011. Mother of Jack Nesbitt ’62. Gwen Morawetz on July 8, 2012 in Bancroft, ON. Mother of Tim Morawetz ’77 and Tom Morawetz ’73; Grandmother of Chris Bocking ’01, Graham Bocking ’03 and Laura Bocking ’06. Grove News Summer 2012 | 37

In Memory of

Florence Gill Mackenzie Ryder July 31, 1906—February 29, 2012

Florence Gill Mackenzie was the fourth of five children of

on the lake in an area now called Mackenzie Bay. But

Helen and Alick (A.W.) Mackenzie (second Headmaster of

Mother’s parents were rarely there. Helen preferred the

Lakefield Preparatory School as it was known then). The

comforts of the Head’s House and Alick preferred to sail

school and Stony Lake, to the north of Lakefield, were

his yawl, the Gay Gilpie, on the Trent system to Georgian

always very special places to Florence.

Bay. So Mother and her friends had the freedom of the

She was born in a bedroom on the second floor of the Head’s House. According to the scales of the village

place and from stories handed down, there is more than a hint of independence in her early cottage life.

butcher, she weighed 12 pounds, which says more about

After her marriage in 1930 to John Ryder (Sr.), her love for

the village butcher than about Mother. Her early world

the school and for Stony Lake was passed on to Dad and

was the world of the school. Here, she first showed many

the family. They purchased the cottage on Kiluna Island

of the characteristics which her friends and family saw in

in 1947. Dad became a member of the Lakefield College

her the rest of her life—independence, courage and love

School Board of Governors. My brother Tom ’53 and his

of sports.

son John ’77 have both been chairs of the board. Tom’s

Her sister, Winifred Lampman, told the story of one summer afternoon when the family gathered for obligatory tea on the lawn of the Head’s House. All were assembled except Mother. Her father pointed to her lone

son Michael Pooley ’01, my sister Janet’s sons, Ian ’77 and Alick Watson ’81, and John’s children Matthew ’08, Jordan ’13 all attended the school and thrived there, and Geoffrey Ryder begins Grade 10 this fall.

figure coming up from the lake. “There is independence,”

When Tom and I were boys, Mother came to most of our

he said.

games, but no game thrilled her more than when John

Certainly her lifelong love of hockey and other sports came from her early days at the school. She and her older

took her, when she was in her 80s, to see the school play versus Havergal.

sister Mary played for the Lakefield girls’ hockey team.

On her 100th birthday she had two special visitors: HRH

Mother had a vivid memory of her father shouting at her

The Duke of York ’78 and Pinball Clemons, then head

to “get up, child, get up” after she had been knocked to the

coach of the Toronto Argonauts. She quickly silenced

ice.

someone’s attempt to make small talk with Pinball,

She had many friends among the boys at the school. One was Bruce Hunt, who returned to Lakefield to live on Casement Lane. Mother liked to tell the story of giving Bruce cereal in the Head’s kitchen one evening when

saying, “We are here to talk football.” A few nights later, as she was listening to the Argos post-game show, she was surprised to hear Pinball talking about her. He was obviously impressed by her knowledge of the game.

Bruce should have been in the study hall. They heard

Her last few years were difficult. She lost her sight, was

her father’s footsteps in the hall, so Bruce hid behind the

confined to her house and later to her bed. But she didn’t

cellar door. Her father, looking at the cellar door, said

once complain about what she couldn’t do. She focused

“Goodnight, Bruce.” To Mother he said, “Florence, you

on what she could do, like listening to broadcasts of

are a perfect nuisance.”

Toronto Maple Leafs games.

Her first experience of Stony Lake came as a two-year-old,

Her funeral was in the school Chapel named for her

when her parents rented the cottage on Kiluna Island.

father, the place where she had been married and only a

Her father conducted Anglican services on the cottage

few yards from where she was born. As Sarah McMahon

porch before the church on Stony Lake was built. When

said at the funeral, “it was if she was coming home.”

she was a teenager, her parents purchased a cottage 38 | Grove News Summer 2012

ALICK RYDER ’55

Congratulations to the Graduating Class of 2012 Fifth Row (Back):

Fourth Row:

Dagmar Christianson

Emilie Fox

Joanna Potts

(L-R) Douglas Watson

(L-R) Jessie Blair

Maddy Fortier

Risako Tamura

Jessica Burns

Duncan Donnay

Rachel Dunford

Nayna Maini

Fanbo Zhou

Cecilia Gregory

Sophia Walter

Colleen MacKenzie

Dan Buchardt

Sierra Peddie

Zephyr Liu

Samira Abed

Third Row:

Mikel Ipiña

Jade Gonsalves

(L-R) Anissa Sridhar

Julianne McConkey

First Row (Front):

Gyuri Marton

Zoe Knowles

Madison Edwards

Sarah MacKinnon

(L-R) Phil Bian

Erik Wimmelbacher

Grant Roy

Lindsay Scott

Johannes Waldeck

Matt Stevens

Kristen Meng

Sandy Wilson

Second Row:

Noah Rosen

Shane Madill

Nikki Gosselin

(L-R) Christina Ravens

Ryan Lee

Andy Mui

Grace Ni

Ellis Mingie

Chris Chan

Rob Thompson

Kylie Clark

Ashley Bourne

Karan Chawla

Mitchell Walsh

Tess McCutcheon

Anna Porte

Vasif Ibragimov

Colin Aldis

Maria Castello

Chloe Rees-Spear

James Gale

Kevin Li

Teraleigh Stevenson

Olivia Essen

Max Fondyga

Cody McMahon

Carly Zubrickas

Isabelle Weichsler

Justin Barlow

Dougie Henderson

Kathleen Nower

Kate Angus

Cammi Henderson

Christina Chan

Rhiannon Gilbart

Sarah Douglas

Celeste Hutton

Cecilia Yang

Natalie Jennings

Jackie McKerroll

Abby Allen

Keegan Campbell Jacob Slobodian Jack Quail Josias Waldeck Zak Schwartz Ronan Padmore Hakan Frik Chris Courtis Alex Procyk Matt Litwin-Davies

Maddy Cooper

Nora Hickey

Samier Kamar

ABSENT: Kat Worsfold Kara Lawrie Chloe Blatchford

Grove News Summer 2012 | 39

Lakefield College School, 4391 County Road 29, Lakefield, Ontario, Canada K0L 2H0

If addressee has moved, DO NOT forward. Return with present address if known. Mailed under Canada Post Publication Agreement #40025808 The Grove News is published twice a year by the Advancement Office. We welcome your comments and suggestions. Please contact Tracey Blodgett at 705.652.3324 or tblodgett@lcs.on.ca, or visit our website at www.lcs.on.ca Lakefield College School is committed to the environment. We use Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certified paper in all school publications. For more information on FSC, visit www.fsc.org