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TORCH: WIWI TORCH: THE OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE WISCONSIN THE OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE WISCONSIN JUNIOR CLASSICAL LEAGUE JUNIOR CLASSICAL LEAGUE
@WisconsinJCL
@WiscJCL
@WisconsinJCL
TABLE OF CONTENTS Announcements and Letter from the Editor - 2
School Updates - 3
"Semester in Italy" by WJCL 2nd VP Camille Deslongchamps - 5
Virtual National Convention Details - 7
"Reminisce" : Nationals Memories - 9
WJCL Seniors - 13
JCL Jokes and History Hunt 15
AÂ Special Thanks - 17
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Announcements NATIONALS
NEW SECTION OF THE TORCH
Nationals is this week: July 24 July 29, 2020! Registration is still open so sign up if you're interested!
At the end of this edition and the following editions, there will be a small game in addition to JCL Jokes! These games may be anything from word searches to word scrambles. Each edition will feature a brand new selection of JCL Jokes AND now a new, classically themed game! Physical Ludi may not be possible at this time, but brain Ludi is here to stay!Â
SPOTIFY PLAYLIST Add to the WJCL Spotify playlist! Although we will not be able to play the playlist at fellowship in person, still add so that when we finally meet again we can have some fun with a lit set of songs.
SERVICE PHOTOS Thank you to everyone who contributed to the food drive! Now, for NJCL, if you have any photos of club or individual service please send them to Camille at 2ndvp@wjcl.org.
CONVENTION TORCH SUBMISSIONS For the next edition of the Torch, I would like to include a section featuring the work of the WJCL delegates, specifically works done for 2020 NJCL Virtual Convention.
If you submitted any Graphic Arts or Creative Arts, I would love to receive photo submissions of your work so that the WJCL can congratulate and celebrate your accomplishments via the Torch! If you are interested, simply take photos of your artwork, costume, writing, etc. and send them to editor@wjcl.org.
MODERN MYTH/ESSAY SUBMISSIONS Building on the previous announcement, if any of you submitted pieces for the Modern Myth category of Nationals, I would greatly appreciate it if you would also email me so that we can share your great work with the WJCL!
Letter from the Editor Salvete omnes! I hope you are all staying safe and healthy during this time and are finding ways to stay entertained and happy while at home! First, I would like to thank everyone who submitted to the previous edition of the Torch, the Torch WI: Spring Edition, and thank everyone who contributed to this edition!
should be less hyped or less excited! For this reason, the "Reminisce" section of this Torch is filled with all of your memories of previous national conventions to keep that JCL spirit alive in your own homes. I hope that the enthusiasm and the joy from your peers' writings can help the WJCL feel virtually connected during Nationals, and hopefully we can all see each other in person soon.
Lastly, I hope you all enjoy the National convention may be online, addition of History Hunt! See you at but that doesn't mean that the WJCL fellowship!
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SCHOOL UPDATES DSHA BY CAMILLE DESLONGCHAMPS
At the end of the 2020 school year, DSHA chose the officers for next year! Our new presidents are the lovely seniors Grace Grahek and Emily Sveda. We are so hyped to have them as our leading ladies. Our new 1st VP is the amazing
CATHOLIC MEMORIAL HIGH SCHOOL BY SAM PIATT
Here is the update from the Latin Program at Catholic Memorial High School in Waukesha. The first major update we had was our undertaking of virtual elections for the club. We were able to hold virtual speeches and commence with the election as well. For in class activities, we had virtual meetings with Magistra Reinmuller and focused primarily on our study of Roman poetry, specifically that of Catullus and Ovid. It included translations, scansions, and analyses of the themes present in the works. Adapting to remote learning has been difficult for our study of Latin. Without the in-person tutelage and assistance of Magistra, it was hard to learn. However, like any good
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Faith Fineour and the new 2nd VP is a very spirited Savanna Kaczynski. New histo is Matina Naum, Tech Co is Ana Prado, and Tribunes are Kathryn Lagore, Rachel Gauthier, and Scanlon Mellowes. The Serpens won the house cup this semester, earning their second crown, but the other houses are determined to win next year. A big shoutout goes to our graduated seniors. We love you and will miss you all next year!
Roman, we persevered. Prior to the coronavirus pandemic, our First Vice President Rachel Ginn was working on our Middle School Outreach Initiative. We have been building good relations with our feeder schools to advocate for their future study of Latin at Catholic Memorial. However, in the wake of this pandemic, our initiative has been affected as the schools are still hesitant about allowing us to visit when the next academic year begins. Overall, the Latin program at Catholic Memorial has been doing well through these challenging times. We were able to proceed with our virtual elections, adapt to online learning, and work on our outreach initiative. From me, on behalf of all of us at Catholic Memorial, I sincerely hope you are doing well and that you have an amazing summer.
BROOKFIELD ACADEMY BY ALI WARRAICH
The Brookfield Academy JCL, much like every local and state JCL chapter, is disheartened by the cancellation of this year’s in-person NJCL convention. Although a virtual alternative may subdue some of our sadness, we will miss all the unforgettable experiences and memories that accompany an in-person convention. Our treasurers, who were deprived of the chance to make our infamous buttons this year, will miss the thrill of meeting new JCL members and yelling “One for one, six for five!” at the top of their lungs. Our historians, who carefully plan and create for hours each summer, will miss the grueling, yet enjoyable task of designing a physical scrapbook for the BAJCL chapter. Most importantly, everyone, officers and members alike, will miss uniting with our fellow WJCL delegates in cheering our hearts out at General Assemblies, unifying to support all of our state Certamen teams in every round, and finally, reminding everyone why we are known as the “Ludi State” by sweeping all the Ludi and Olympika events. Of all the experiences and people that the BAJCL will miss, foremost are our
seniors, whom we would like to thank for all their dedication and commitment to the JCL in all its glory. Without them, present and future conventions will not be the same. Nevertheless, the BAJCL hopes to have a successful virtual convention, and we wish our senior JCLers Maya Booth, Nicholas Chang, Arushi Dhingra, Mark Gundrum, Madison Hesse, Katie Hieb, Kyle Jain, Hannah Kludt, Sanjiv Kodali, Mary Loomis, Adam Montalbo, Amanda Roessler, Reena Singhal, Fritz Stangler, and Rachel Vasan the best of luck in college and in their bright futures.
HOMESTEAD HIGH SCHOOL BY ILIA MIKHAILENKO
Homestead High School made a relatively smooth transition into an online curriculum after being blindsided by the COVID-19 pandemic, with the staff taking an
impressively small amount of time to adjust to an extremely improbable situation that nobody could have predicted. Online learning quickly launched, and the material was presented in a thorough and comprehensive way through slideshows, readings, and live video conferences that enabled the students to interact with the teachers in a way not too different from the classroom setting. Despite school partially losing its fun due to the fact that learning online meant you didn't actually get to see your friends or teachers in person, I believe that Homestead's online curriculum was a lot better than what most of us could have hoped for. Additionally, although the coronavirus kind of spoiled the initial plans for National Classics week, Homestead still had fun with several students baking cakes to celebrate Rome's birthday.
MUHS
Salvete! Throughout the spring semester, Marquette students engaged in distance learning, attending virtual classes and continuing to stay connected. A few days before the cancellation of inperson classes in early March, a group of students was inducted into the Latin Honors Society for their academic achievements and engagement in the language. Even without the usual partner readings, Latin class remained fun, and students kept learning and reading Latin throughout the months of online learning. With all extracurricular events and school activities cancelled, Marquette’s annual chariot races did not take place, to the dismay of many seniors who were eager to take part in their final race; however, everyone is excited and ready for next year. Looking ahead to the upcoming school year, we are hopeful for a return to in-person classes, but we know that staying safe and healthy is the top priority. Have a wonderful summer!
BY PATRICK WALSH
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SEMESTER IN ITALYÂ Students at Italian high schools such as Liceo Classico L.A. Muratori, where I was during the past fall semester, stand up behind their desks whenever a teacher walks into the room. This is a sign of respect and is intended to preserve the mentor-mentee relationship between students and professors. I did not know this before my first class on my first day at school. So, unsurprisingly, when Professor Calvazutti, my Latin and Greek professor, walked though the door, I did not stand up. Oblivious of my classmates (who were all standing) and absorbed in my own anxiety, I noticed the custom just a smidge too late, and Cavaz (as she is affectionately known by her students) began to speak in Italian with words I could not translate and in a tone I can only describe as displeased. Quickly, my new classmates jumped to my aid, excusing my disrespect with the fact that I had no way of knowing the custom. Regardless of the justification of my actions that day, I began to fear Professor Calvazutti. Cavaz taught Latin and Greek with an iron fist and a sharp tongue. She assigned us two or three paragraphs by
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ancient orators per week and would expect a translation by the following day. I struggled with this. During the days following, she would interrogate students, demanding us to know every detail of the grammar, context, and translation. I also struggled with this. Her class was difficult and her standards were high but, after a month or two, we began to study harder and learn more every week. She had unlocked something in us students that made us more willing to work for an understanding of the text. And, at the same time she was a very tough cookie, she was also an amazing person to be around. She was dependable and trustworthy, always being sympathetic when I couldn’t translate well and helping me when I needed extra attention. She was interesting and fun to talk to, so much so that we would talk for hours. In a lot of ways, she reminds me of the Latin language. My first Latin class at DSHA was terrifying in the same way that living in Italy was terrifying: everything was new and unusual to me. I remember wondering how I would be able to learn such a difficult language as
Latin. And, in some ways, that concern was valid. The beginning of my first semester did not go super well--I struggled with case endings and vocabulary. However, those experiences pushed me to study harder and learn more, which I did. Although Latin has knocked me over time and time again, learning it has shown me how much I am capable of accomplishing. Since then, it has become a class where I learn about things that interest me the most, where I have made friends, and where I have developed skills that will last me a lifetime. It is dependable, like a puzzle which I can almost always solve, and it is so interesting that people dedicate their lives to it. Latin, just like Cavaz, has given me insight into my own capabilities, making me a better student and a better person.
BY CAMILLE DESLONGCHAMPS WJCL 2ND VICE PRESIDENT DSHA
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VIRT
NATIONAL C INFORMATION LINK
TENTATIVE SCHEDULE
The NJCL has created a Google Doc which contains the details about how Nationals will run this year. If you are attending Nationals or are considering enrolling, check out the doc via the link below or through the link provided on the NJCL website under 2020 NJCL Convention.
The NJCL has released the tentative schedule for Nationals already. Please check it out before convention starts so that you can be prompt and on time for the virtual events! Keep in mind all times on this doc are in EST. To access the tentative schedule, use the link provided below or imbedded in the document under the first section "Information Link."
https://docs.google.com/document /d/1pKZgRWgFYrCebH9RZdfSleI9X tjCAydpNVb4_tg05S0/edit
STATE FELLOWSHIP State fellowship is a go for the WJCL! More information will be released later regarding the exact times of the fellowships. We are planning on having one or two, so stay tuned!
REGISTRATION & REFUNDS Registration is open until July 24, the beginning of Nationals, and full refunds are available until July 24 as well.
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CHORUS The NJCL choir shall continue! If you or a friend are interested in joining the choir during National Convention, email andrea.stehle@basised.com for more information ASAP. If you decide to or are considering joining, keep in mind that participants will need to record themselves singing the songs before the beginning of National Convention, July 24.
Feel free to also use Sched (app); you should have already received an email from Sched with the code for the convention schedule.
The songs will be sent to those who are interested and have emailed Andrea Stehle. LIMITED NUMBER OF MEMBERS.
https://docs.google.com/document /d/1NTSe38PLFiYBsy_E7vDJeLjzms uEXKfRAZrb1Aj8l0k/edit
COLLOQUIA
CODE OF CONDUCT Dress code and the code of conduct still apply to all attendees. In addition, academic integrity is imperative. Online test taking opens up the way for cheating and conversing during the tests, but as the WJCL we shall earn our academic awards rightfully and truthfully.
Virtual Colloquia sessions are available during National Convention! There will be many virtual workshops and seminars as well, including one by renowned author George O'Connor.
CERTAMEN/AG ON Certamen as well as Agon, Open Certamen, and World Series are still happening, but virtually! Cheer the WJCL teams on!
TUAL ONVENTION E-LYMPIKA
AGORA
SPIRIT
That's right, Olympika is still happening! This year the NJCL will have several virtual events including a marathon, sit-up and push-up contests, trick shots, and more! For more info visit:
Agora is still going on! This time it will be through online websites such as Ebay, Etsy, etc.
WJCL spirit lives on! Check out the document below for specifics! Daily themes are:
https://docs.google.com/document /d/1ET6yYTmL__Jvhk2XNuG4Me3lXm4d1Lvf0iPw7340c g/edit
If you haven't heard already, Wisconsin tends to dominate Ludi and Olympika at Nationals. Tell your friends and sign up so that we can keep our winning streak strong!
PRACTICE NLE The JCL is trying out a new but similar version of the National Latin Exam. If you are in Latin 3, they are offering the opportunity to test out said new version. It is 40 minutes, and those who qualify can take it anytime from July 24 to 28, 2020. No experience needed. Feel free to take the test and share your feedback with the JCL!
THAT'S ENTERTAINME NT! The classic show that captivates all classical enthusiasts: That's Entertainment! The NJCL will release the video of all the performers! Get hyped for the virtual show! Submissions are due July 25, 2020.
CONVENTION EAR Every Nationals the NSCL publishes daily Convention Ears, newsletters. Although we are going virtual, they still need delegate reporters. If you or anyone you know is interested, please email editor@nscl.org or olympika@njcl.org.
Saturday: Clamate! Sunday: VA! VA! State T-shirt Day Monday: Purple Rain and Golden Slumber Tuesday: Arachne’s Web https://docs.google.com/document /d/1dZg2uTG_k4WoixDiJRehK7Qxw VLXuC9tkY1oP4JRgsA/edit
Spirit submissions are due the day they occur.
SERVICE Aside from our WJCL service projects, the NJCL also has two main service opportunities: drawing coloring pictures and writing to local representatives. For more information visit: https://docs.google.com/document /d/1dZg2uTG_k4WoixDiJRehK7Qxw VLXuC9tkY1oP4JRgsA/edit
All service submissions are due July 28, 2020.
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REMINISCE G E T
H Y P E D
ANUSHKA GURU BROOKFIELD ACADEMY My first Nationals experience was last year, at Nationals 2019 in Fargo, ND. I was entering my freshman year of high school and didn’t really know anyone other than the five other eighth graders on the trip. As soon as we arrived in Fargo, though, we all immediately threw ourselves into the events at Nationals without second thoughts. I ran in a track event, even though running has never been my area. I got to go to Colloquia, and make friends from Wisconsin and other states as we drew on the papers that would be put into the folders and notebooks we had all collected. We all bonded over the really long walks to the Fargodome in the peak of the North Dakota summer and over selling JCL kazoos. At GA, we all had fun dressing up and screaming until we lost our voices every day, and then we ran to Certamen to support our state. We got lost as we ran late on our way to testing early in the morning and met new people who were just as loud as we were. At the dance, I made friends from all over the country through dancing just for fun. As I moved around that night on the floor, each individual group that welcomed me was so different
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F O R
N A T I O N A L
C O N V E N T I O N !
from the ones before, from the group that ballroom danced professionally and taught me a few steps, to the Bollywood dancing group that cleared the whole floor for us to dance, to the groups that just wanted to dance no matter what. Even though we stayed up really late most nights (once because of a fire drill at midnight, once after the dance, and every other night because of one of my roommates who wanted to study), we happily woke up the next day and did it all again.
OLIVIA PATEL HOMESTEAD HIGH SCHOOL In 2019, I attended my first national convention in Fargo, North Dakota, and to say the convention was fun would be a complete understatement. Not only was the convention completely not what I expected it to be, but instead so much more. It was what really grew my love for the WJCL, to say the least. At convention, being my school’s historian, I got the great opportunity to work in a team of other historians from around the state with the task of documenting that week in Fargo. I believe that my job as a photographer really allowed me to step out of my comfort zone and attend different parts of convention I may not have if I wasn’t needed for picture taking. I still look back at the
pictures I took from the multitude of events I attended while in Fargo and reminisce over what would definitely qualify as one of the best weeks of summer for me. I am more than looking forward to continuing my work on the 20192020 scrapbook for national submission, and although this year’s national convention is cancelled, I still am beyond thankful I got to go last year and develop friendships that I know will stick with me for the rest of my time in the WJCL.
PATRICK WALSH MUHS NJCL Convention is an amazing week full of fun activities and academic competitions that is always the highlight of my summer. I love meeting Latin students from all over the country and spending time with friends from home while engaging in the many events at convention. There is never a dull moment at convention. From early morning to late at night, delegates take part in tons of activities and run across the campus (staying on the sidewalk, avoiding the sod, and following all traffic laws, of course) trying to fit it all in. Throughout the week, academic testing is divided up into
a handful of categories each day, and there is an amazing variety of tests offered. Another great part of convention is the art viewing times during which you have the chance to look at all of the pieces of artwork that were submitted to the convention contests; I love walking through the giant room filled with drawings, paintings, jewelry, photographs, etc. and admiring the amazing submissions done by really talented students. Even though I always lose my voice, I love cheering at the beginning of every General Assembly because I can truly feel the energy and excitement of convention. Although it is online this year, I am sure that convention will still be an amazing experience and a great opportunity to compete and have fun. I hope that everyone has a wonderful time!
LILY CHILDRESS BROOKFIELD ACADEMY I’ve attended the National Latin Convention for the past two years, and I have many wonderful memories. I met new people through agora and being on a wildcard certamen team, I learned about Roman textiles, and I placed in various contests. I am sad that convention cannot be in person this year, but I am happy that it is still continuing!
TEGBIR CHAWLA BROOKFIELD ACADEMY Although the Coronavirus pandemic has stopped us from congregating in person this year, it hasn't stopped us from remembering the good times we've had in the past and looking forward to more in the future. Last year, I attended my first NJCL convention in North Dakota, and it surpassed all my expectations. It was amazing to see how the Latin language brought so many people together from around the country,
and this was epitomized at the Agora. I helped my local chapter in selling the beloved Wisco Buttons (1 for 1, 6 for 5, yeah those ones) and this was easily my favorite part of convention because of all of the new people that I met. Everytime we raised the chant to advertise our buttons, surrounding vendors would join in chorus as one group. The room would always be filled with laughter as we were all able to relax after a day of rigorous testing. My experience at the Agora provided me with a sense of camaraderie because I was able to strengthen old friendships and make new ones as well. Since we cannot replicate the same environment virtually, I am looking forward to attending Nationals in person next year to create more memories and friendships.
BEEP-BEEP-BEEP. Pause. BEEPBEEP-BEEP. Even louder. With a foggy mind and eyes glued closed by sleep, I can not comprehend the blaring sound. The tapping of bare feet against tile and clanking of boots shuffling down steps fills the hall outside the dorm. Suddenly the sound becomes unbearably loud and a bright light illuminates the insides of my eyelids with a red glow. Groaning in frustration, I finally sit up and rub my eyes fiercely. But before I even get the chance to look around, someone shouts at me from the doorway and a hand grabs my arm urgently. Still half-asleep, I seem to be stupified because, although I have realized that the screeching noise is the fire alarm and that I am being urged to safety, I halt halfway down the hall, mumbling “Where are we going?”
NOAH ABUHAJIR
By some miracle, though, moments later I find myself on the lawn outside the dormitory, with the cuffs of my pajama pants becoming heavy with dew and blades of grass pricking my feet. Vaguely, I see the outlines of my roommate and my other friends, all with hands tucked into their jackets and teeth gritted against the cold night breeze. The entire time, I do not think about whether I could have been trapped in a fire, only about how I will not be awake enough to take the next day’s tests. Somehow I’m able to drag myself out of bed the next day (or same day, as it turns out the alarm went off at around two in the morning), and stay awake until General Assembly, although it was certainly a battle.
BROOKFIELD ACADEMY Originally when I was asked to write an article for the torch, I intended on just giving a synopsis of how Bazaar works and encourage anyone going to Nationals to participate because of the interactions with other states. Unfortunately due to the pandemic we are currently facing, Nationals has been reformatted into an online experience, and because Bazaar will not be the same this year, it seems less important to write about. Instead, I would like to thank all of the latin scholars who are working through this change and briefly mention an alternative to Bazaar for this year for anyone who is interested. Bazaar is one of the best ways for the WJCL to make money, and so if you would like to help support the WJCL, you can go to our website at wjcl.org and visit our online Ludi store if you are interested in our jerseys or socks. Thanks for letting me plug the store, and I hope you can all enjoy your National Convention despite the unusual circumstances.
RUTHIE YU BROOKFIELD ACADEMY
While the fire alarm being tripped obviously was not a planned activity (that would be “alarming”) its unexpected nature made the event that much more memorable. It became a conversation starter in order to meet other delegates and is a fun story to tell even now, long after the convention has ended. I most likely will not remember how I scored on each test or what was talked about at every General Assembly, but even years from now I will still be able to recall standing outside the dormitory in the dead of night. In the moment, being awake at a time when no sane person should be was not my idea of fun, but every time I look back
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on it I realize that I would never have had that experience if I had not gone to the National Latin Convention.
HENA ALLAQABAND BROOKFIELD ACADEMY My first NJCL Convention was an experience unlike any other. The entire week was a whirlwind of energy, fear, fun, and insanity. From 1 a.m. fire drills, fellowships, and frantic studying to screaming at spirit and silent spirit fingers, my time in Fargo was quite unique. As an eight grader amongst a crowd of upperclassmen, chaperones, and SCLers, I was pretty terrified. I had no idea what to expect when I hit complete on the registration form. Nationals is one week of action packed activities, and although I loved them all, my favorite memories are ones I will not be forgetting anytime soon. Ranked fifth on my list of JCL events, was my first general assembly, or GA. We had been warned that GA was not a time to nap or snap, but I really underestimated how tired I would get from constantly hearing a plethora of names being called. Honestly, it makes sitting through Zoom classes seem enjoyable. However, regardless of how boring it may be, GA is filled with dozens of awards, and anxiously waiting to hear your school or state name be called is a remarkable sensation. Next, I am obliged to recount the first time I witnessed the extreme state spirit during a Certamen round. If you have ever attended a Certamen invitational, you might remember how seriously the moderators take being silent.
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During score check, no one cheers or chants, and the celebrations of victory are extremely civil. On the contrary, Nationals is a time to showcase pride for your fellow delegates. This specific experience, though, is still talked about to this day. After Wisconsin scored 100 points within the first five questions of the round, a certain delegate chanted for a member of Team Wisconsin, scaring the delegates from the other states as a result. As I cheered along, I remember thinking, “imagine having people think so highly of you, that they scream your name. That’s pretty cool.” I do still think it is, “pretty cool.” Coming in at number three would have to be a compilation of all the times I got lost. Attempting to watch Ludi Soccer and ending up at the dining hall is one to remember. My personal favorite, however, was having to enter the Fargodome into Google Maps. That ended in me sprinting into testing two minutes before the doors closed. My second favorite memory from the convention would have to be my one true JCL passion, spirit. My first spirit, I barely screamed, but I was just in shock of how easily people would yell at the top of their lungs for recognition from the NJCL officers. I learned to love the chaos of cheering, pointing, chopping, and clapping just in time for it to make a lasting impression on me. I still get weird looks when I say that spirit is my favorite part of convention. Nonetheless, the most memorable part of Nationals for me was something that presents itself as sort of an inaugural occurrence for first time delegates: That’s Entertainment. Specific to Nationals is the performance of “Brown Squirrel.” Standing up, dancing, and shaking my, “bushy tail,” are without a doubt
permanently scarred into my brain, for better or for worse. Having thousands of people making fools of themselves all at once just has to be applauded. In all seriousness, Nationals is my favorite week of the year, and should we get the opportunity to travel to San Diego next year, I highly recommend going. Happy Zooming!
CHLOE ANDERSON TOSA EAST Looking back on conventions of yore is always rather bittersweet, but rarely as much as this year. Convention, like so many other things, is completely different without a physical location. Bunking with my friends, getting lost on campus together, walking up to total strangers and being able to say "Salve!"... I never thought these would be things that could be consigned to history. Then again, nor did I ever think I would miss being constantly bombarded with kazoo noises, or that I would wear a cow bandana anywhere other than Nats. I guess there's always room for the unexpected, which brings us to the most obvious feature of 2020 convention. I miss seeing people in person as much as anyone else, but this year's convention can still be pretty cool too. The essence of convention, after all, is the bond formed with my fellow Latin nerds. From laughing at the Ear over breakfast together to shouting ourselves hoarse advertising Wisco buttons (1 FOR 1, 6 FOR 5), from griping with each other about the cheese at NDSU to learning from
new friends what state Latin convention is like in Maine, the essence of the JCL is still as vibrant as ever. I'm reminded of the theme of my first state convention: Ego vos hortari tantum possum ut amicitiam omnibus rebus humanis anteponatis." Because friendships formed here, like Latin itself, can last quite well over the years.
ANNA MARSHALL BROOKFIELD ACADEMY I joined Brookfield Academy when I was in 6th grade, and the first language that was taught to me was latin. I fell in love with the language and how orderly it was. I continued my journey in latin throughout middle school and heard my 8th grade latin teacher (Mr. Laabs) talk about a latin convention that he attended every year. Back then I thought it was interesting but still quite nerdy. During freshman year, my latin teacher (Mrs. Twetten) told my class about State Convention. Many of my friends had already gone the summer before to Nationals and told me how much fun it was. It did not take much convincing and I quickly had chosen my roommates for State Convention. I had a blast at my first convention and couldn’t wait to go again. Luckily, I only had to wait six months instead of a whole year to experience something like State again. Although I knew how much fun State was, I was more skeptical about Nationals considering it was a whole week of latin activities. I again was convinced by my friends that it was definitely worth the trip. Even though the 8.5 hour plus bus ride there mostly consisted of corn fields, Nats made every minute worth it. To sum it up for those that haven’t attended, Nats is like State on steroids. I filled almost every minute of my schedule with things ranging from watching Ludi or certamen, screaming my heart out at spirit, and making new friends. What sets Nationals apart from State is that instead of competing against each other, everyone from the state comes together to have a
good time and appreciate latin. I often found myself going back to Agora multiple times for the creative pieces and Wii theme song on the kazoo, and I was dumbfounded by how fast certamen questions were answered. Getting around the NDSU campus was always an adventure with many laughs along the way, and ice cream cones made for great lunches and dinners. My friends and I even met some people from Texas, which I never thought would’ve happened. One of the highlights of Nats happened before the doors of That’s Entertainment opened. There was a long line to go downstairs and while in line, kids started screaming their state’s spirit chants. It was like spirit all over again, but you could hear how much each and every person loved latin and how tight knit the community was. I of course yelled out, “Wisco buttons, one for one, six for five!” many times throughout convention. Nats was definitely the highlight of my summer, and although it will not be in Virginia this year, I hope to see all of you virtually!
MONA KHOSLA BROOKFIELD ACADEMY Attending Nationals is an experience you will never forget. I learned that last year when I participated in my first convention. As an incoming freshman, there weren’t many people my age, and I was quite intimidated by the older students from different schools and from all over the state. However, I felt very quickly welcomed into Wisconsin’s special community. I knew five other kids from my grade, and four of us roomed together. We bonded like crazy and made memories that will last a lifetime. Not only that, but we made several new friends from both our state and from other states. One of my favorite memories from Nats was spirit. Everyone from our state would come together with fun props and shout the chants as loud as we could. It was so much fun, and, no
matter what, everyone was included. At Nationals, everyone takes on their state name; being apart of a close group like that is unmatched. Another thing I really enjoyed was all the time we had to just walk around, explore, and meet new people. There were a lot of activities at convention, but there was also a lot of free time. My friends and I made great memories playing pool and shuffleboard in the game room, grabbing pizza and playing cards, and just roaming around the campus talking. There were so many places to go and so many activities to do for everyone, and, trust me, I definitely got my steps in each day! Convention was truly one of a kind and was my home away from home for the week we lived there. I am so sad it was canceled this year, but I can not wait for next year.
NIELS ARMBRUSTER BROOKFIELD ACADEMY One of my favorite activities at National Convention is the state fellowship that concludes the day. At these meetings, we are supposed to discuss what happened throughout the day and go through the schedule for the upcoming day to determine what needs to be done. However, these fellowships end up being much more than that. Similar to State Convention, these occur at extremely late hours of the night, such as 2 am. Given that you need to wake up at around 8 am the next day, many people attempt to spur on the meeting so that they can get some rest, but that never really happens. On the last day of Nationals, we extend our state fellowship even later into the night and practice some annual traditions. During this time, the seniors who have just graduated and are attending their last convention discuss what the WJCL means to them, which allows for younger members to reflect on what the WJCL means to them as well. After this, Insomnia Cookies seem to appear out of nowhere and then disappear just as quickly. After that, everyone returns to the dorms to get a full night of rest (but why would anyone do that).
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INTRODUCING YOUR
WJCL SENIORS CLASS OF 2020
ELIZABETH FOSTER HOMESTEAD HIGH SCHOOL 2019-2020 NJCL EDITOR
the day, I can only encourage you to take risks, passionately invest your time here, and enjoy every moment while it lasts. As clique as it sounds, it will all be gone before you know it. Ab imo pectore.
Dearest WJCL, You truly hold my fondest memories and have formed my most valued friendships from the past four years. Thank you for welcoming me with open arms and challenging me to become a better historian, editor, leader, and friend. My first convention was State my sophomore year. I wasn’t an intimidated freshman during spirit, I was an intimidated sophomore, and yet, I found a home here. To those that have gone before me, thank you for creating a community for students to explore, learn, grow, and thrive. To those who have supported me throughout my time here, to Shir Bloch, Becca Helmstetter, Bella Cicero, and Reena Singhal especially and the entirety of the WJCL, words cannot express how thankful I am for the opportunities I have had. Magis, you believed in me, you challenged me, you encouraged me, you taught me, you loved me. Thank you. While I dreamed of giving this speech to y'all on the beautiful campus of the University of Richmond, the JCL is an organization of people, not an organized convention. Thank you to the people of the JCL for making this experience. WJCL, you are in good hands; the current board is doing amazing things. Underclassmen, the WJCL is in your hands next. At the end of
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ARUSHI DHINGRA BROOKFIELD ACADEMY In 7th grade, I took Latin just to get the requirement out of the way. Six years later, the language has so many memories and amazing people associated with it all due to the WJCL. State convention freshman year was one of the most amazing weekends of my life. I was able to meet so many amazing people and experience a side of Latin I never had before. That summer, I went to Nationals and met even more people and created even more memories. This continued on until junior year when I ran for 2nd VP on the WJCL Board. Serving on the board was the highlight of my WJCL experience. Whether it was winning first in spirit at Nationals, or the all-nighters at State Convention, I would not trade that experience for the world. So thank you to my WJCL best friends and all of you reading this for making these four years an unforgettable experience.
NICHOLAS CHANG BROOKFIELD ACADEMY
How do you become a Classicist? For some, it means that we were coerced into taking Latin by our school’s 7th grade curriculum. For others, it means reminiscing on fond memories related to Percy Jackson. But while these experiences may guide us to the world of the Classics, they do not determine a long-term dedication to ancient cultures and languages. In fact, for many, disdainful memories from Middle School Latin may be a key reason why they fail to continue with the language into high school; an overwhelming dedication to Rick Riordan may mean a loss of interest when the topics of class stray too far away from mythology. While true lovers of the classics may insist that they persisted so far into this field of study due solely to their love of translating Caesar, for many of us there is a much more important reason: camaraderie and friendship. As a part of the JCL, I have been shaped by so many peers and mentors, forging some of my strongest friendships through Certamen, conventions, and sporadic Latin Club meetings. In addition to the bonds formed with other students, we also make friendships with our teachers, who guide us through the intricacies of poetic form and the confusion of registering for contests. While some may just be in it for the college apps, any true classicists in the crowd will be able to recount some tale from their journey through Latin. Spicy UNO, covert
REENA SINGHAL BROOKFIELD ACADEMY Some of my favorite memories from the last four years are from my experiences with the WJCL and NJCL. The JCL has not only brought me a great amount of joy but has also transformed me as a person. In the JCL I found love and acceptance from so many people; I found a place where I could truly belong. I also found a place where I could flourish and grow. When I attended my first State Convention freshman year I knew that I was hooked for the rest of high school; I remember my feeling of awe and all-consuming excitement that I still feel at every convention. If I had advice for any younger JCLers, it would be to take advantage of every single second of your time in the JCL; play certamen, compete in art competitions, join ludi, go to the dances, and run for office. Do it all if you can, because I did (except for oratory, lol), and I am left with no regrets, only sadness that I can not continue to be part of this world I love so dearly. The JCL not only gave me a place where I could be my true and independent self, but also allowed me to gain more confidence in myself. I had so much support from so many people during my time in this beautiful organization, and for that I will always be grateful. I would like to finish this up with two thank you's. The first goes to Nicholas Chang, who I would like to
thank for getting me into the Latin and the JCL in the first place. Without your support, I would have never run for editor; you were always there to help me. Thank you so much for everything, Chang. The second goes to Mrs. Osier, who instilled in me a love for latin and the classics. Your class was one of the best parts of my day, and, because of you, I plan to continue my love for the classics in college. Our Latin family brought me so much joy and I will miss seeing you every day. Thank you so much, Mrs. Osier. Valete omnes, and good luck out there!
CONGRATS!
Jimmy John’s transactions, insane Certamen rounds, and lemon-juice chugging contests have defined the past four years of my life greater than any other academic pursuit. The Classics are more than just another resume-builder (though they are great for that too). I can say without a doubt that taking Latin was the most important decision that I have made in my life: for my friends, for all five of my Latin teachers, and for the family that I have made along the way,
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JCL JOKES
EMAIL EDITOR@WJCL.ORG for your JCL Jokes to be featured in the next edition of the Torch! Always excepting classically themed: Jokes Puns Memes Cartoons AND MORE!
Send them to your WJCL Editor through the email above! All submissions are greatly appreciated!
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NEW!
CONSTANTINE PERTINAX CALIGULA NERVA NERO
HISTORY HUNT
VESPASIAN AUGUSTUS HADRIAN GALBA
CARACALLA TIBERIUS DOMITIAN TITUS
COMMODUS CLAUDIUS TRAJAN OTHO
SEND US A PICTURE OF YOUR FINISHED HISTORY HUNT TO HAVE YOUR RESULTS FEATURED IN THE NEXT TORCH!
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A SPECIAL THANKS SCHOOL UPDATES
WJCL SENIORS
Camille Deslongchamps, WJCL 2nd VP Sam Piatt Ali Warraich Ilia Mikhailenko, WJCL Tech-Co Patrick Walsh, WJCL 1st VP
Elizabeth Foster, NJCL Editor Arushi Dhingra Nicholas Chang Reena Singhal
PHOTOS Olivia Patel, WJCL Historian Bella Cicero
SEMESTER IN ITALY Camille Deslongchamps, WJCL 2nd VP
REMINISCE Anna Marshall Anushka Guru Hena Allaqaband Lily Childress Mona Khosla Niels Armbruster, WJCL President Noah Abuhajir, WJCL Treasurer Olivia Patel, WJCL Historian Patrick Walsh, WJCL 1st VP Ruthie Yu Chloe Anderson Tegbir Chawla
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JCL JOKES Hena Allaqaband Lily Childress